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08 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
We hired Nick Thornton, for our son who was facing Class C Felony charges. Nick was professional, kind honest and truly interested in a good outcome for our son. Our son made a plea deal to serve 6 years. Nick was there for him every step of the way. He answered all of our questions too, and explained things to us clearly and in a manner we could easily understand. When it came time for my son’s sentencing hearing, we had held very little hope the sentence would be reduced by more than one year. Nick fought for our son forcefully and proficiently. He presented extra research to the judge which was the key that changed everything! My son’s sentence was cut in half. It meant so much to us that Nick was as pleased for our son as we were. He truly is a fighter for his clients and if ever I had need of a lawyer, I would hire him again.
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11 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
I first reached out to Nick because of his resume on Avvo. When comparing to other lawyers in the area on this metric, he was a no brainer. For context, I hired him in regards to a drug case. Leading up to my final court date, we had not reached an agreement with the prosecutor and because of this I was facing nine months in jail. Coming into that final day there was a lot of uncertainty, but Nick consistently assured me of his confidence on the law. Although I had my doubts, he came prepared and had certainly done his homework in regards to my specific case. Through extensive argument in court, the judge deemed Nick to be correct and the jail time was reduced to probation. Without him I would likely be writing this review nine months from now. Highly recommend!
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26 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I was charged with a misdemeanor for allegedly making threats in the workplace. This event never took place, as I was miles away from the office building at the time when this alleged (fictional) event took place. The allegations was made by a clerical staff with whom I have little contact. There were no witnesses. This delusional fabrication was probably orchestrated by my boss who felt too much competition coming from me, and wanted to have unlimited power. Amazingly, DA's Office decided to pursue the case without an iota of material or any other evidence, based solely on the allegation made by a secretary who has many personal and family issues, a very unhappy and bitter person. Nick collected all the facts, interviewed right people in preparation for the trial. He had several consultations with me, and prepared me well for the case. During the trial, Nick was eloquent, forceful but respectful. It was clear very early in the trial that the only outcome possible will be favorable to me. Nick dominated the trial as a lawyer. I would strongly recommend Mr. Nick Thornton as a criminal attorney to anyone in need of such legal assistance. He is a wonderful communicator, open, and never sugarcoating. You will know where you stand every step of the way. A++
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20 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Trent has a comprehensive understanding of the law and the system that enforces it. His knowledge along with his passion and dedication to the field makes him the perfect choice for your legal needs.
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24 Nov, 2020 by Christopher
I would HIGHLY recommend Trent Barkus again for any future legal issues i may have. He made me feel very comfortable and confident of his abilities throughout the entire process. He always made time to address any concerns I may have had, I never had to wait very long for an answer if he wasn't available immediately. He was able to produce better results than I could have ever hoped for!
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14 Jul, 2020 by Marlys
Trent Barkus is an excellent attorney who goes above and beyond for his client. I contacted Trent to ask for a brief consultation while drafting a letter. Without hesitation, he provided thoughtful, concise, advice. I highly recommend Trent Barkus to anyone who needs sound, legal advice.
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10 May, 2024 by Christina
I've worked with his office before and was honored to have such a competent staff go to Bat for me. :) I could use them again for a criminal case, not mine. Will be calling soon if I don't get an email!!
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19 Jun, 2018 by Steve
Counselor Brand is a very competent, very professional attorney. After having a free, very thorough initial consultation with him, he immediately got to work on my case, meeting with the prosecutor at my dispositional hearing (which, only two days away, and thanks to his representation, I didn't even have to attend), and that very same day HAD ALL THE CHARGES DISMISSED! I simply couldn't recommend Scott any more highly. A very thoughtful, intelligent who GETS RESULTS ... fast. If you're case is in North Dakota or Minnesota, you could not be better served by anyone else than Mr. Brand.
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20 Feb, 2018 by Robert
Scott Brand is an honest lawyer who is worth many times more than his retainer. I was not at first not satisfied by the rural lawyers I came across in McKenzie county or that came up by sponsored links on Google. I found Scott by going to the prosecutor's office in another town, Dickinson, and asking for a private criminal lawyer that they would reccomend. At first I was shocked that the reccomendation to the lawyer was all the way in Fargo. I called him and he agreed to meet with me when I was passing through. At first I was a bit uneasy that the office was 6 hours away from the county in which I was facing charges, but this is normal for North Dakota. I am so glad that I went to Fargo instead of responding to the lawyers out there in that corner of North Dakota. My brother and I went to Scott's office one time and he was courteous and more than professional. Because I live in France, all of the contact was done over phone, mail, or e-mail from this point onwards. A week after this meeting, Scott gained access to the bodycam footage of the officer and it was clear that this was a civil rights violation. The prosecutor still rejected this argument, despite the fact that everything was on camera. Scott drafted some sort of long, complex legal document that was based in North Dakota state case history to fight my case. When he actually appeared in court to defend this document, the prosecutor and police officer were still tenacious. The judge threw out the case, however, and issued a written ruling entirely in agreement with Scott. I got back the entirety of the bail money that I paid to the county and more importantly I have my life back. If I had had to go on probation in North Dakota, who knows what type of problems this would have caused me later on. His retainer is totally worth several times over what he charged. He made it so I never had to appear in court in any hearing or as a witness, so that I did not have to return from France, which would have easily cost several thousand dollars per appearance. For a lawyer, Scott is more than honest. He doesn't overpromise. I felt reassured throughout the whole course of several months. I really don't envision that other lawyers might have been able or even dedicated such an amount of hard work to beat the charges. I don't have a great opinion of lawyers in general and I'm not sure that the other lawyers I had consulted would have not just taken my money and then advised me to take a plea deal to finish everything as fast as possible.
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07 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I retained Jeff Bredahl in a case that I needed an attorney who knew their stuff and was certain and knew they would win my case. From the moment I walked in he told me right away, we got this case. I will never forget how during the 5-6 months during the whole process, Jeff and his team were always there for me. During the process Bredahl and Associates were the only ones there for me. You definitely were not just a client. He also keeps everything short and to the point of what you need. He doesn’t try to just get money out of you like other attorneys. During my trial, which was 3 days long, he stood out and did and AMAZING and outstanding job! After receiving my non guilty verdict, I had numerous jurors come up to me and say whatever you paid for your attorney was well worth it, I’ve never seen an attorney so good and prove their case like he did. Bredahl and Associates know their stuff and will not stop fighting for their clients. They are exactly what an attorney should be! I was referred to Jeff Bredahl by someone else I knew and they said he’s a beast in the courtroom so I trusted them. Not long after being told that I was also told that by numerous other people and eventually got to see for myself. Every penny I paid was well worth it! I now have a custody issue and have came right back to him and hired him again as I know he will get the job done because he is the BEST attorney you will ever find....hands down! I honesty could never thank him and the rest of his team for all they have done for me and for the work they have done and continue to do. If you want the BEST of the BEST and to win any court proceeding; Bredahl and Associates is where you need to go and you will surely be more than happy with the results and treatment you get. I will NEVER hire another attorney again! HUGE THANK YOU to JEFF BREDAHL and his Team!! I PROMISE you will not be disappointed. #teamBREDAHL
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07 Aug, 2019 by Aaron
I retained Jeff Bredahl with Bredahl and Associates as my attorney in 2018. I have nothing but respect and admiration for the work and extra steps that Mr. Bredahl, as well as everyone in that office did for me personally and my case. The work ethic and true dedication that Jeff Bredahl and his firm put into making sure my case was taken care of to the best of its possibility was amazing! Jeff always gave 110%. Bredahl and Associates makes you feel like your more than just a client. They make you feel like family, and it all starts with Jeff himself! Jeff is one of a kind and he will always be more than just an attorney to me!
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27 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Jeff was the best attorney I could have hired. From his diligently picking my jury to fiery cross-examinations. He stands out against other attorneys especially during his opening and closing arguments. The best part of my case was my not guilty verdict! I was also told by other clients he's the only attorney to have won a federal criminal trial in Fargo
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19 Nov, 2024 by Karley thorson
Both Luke Heck and Erica Hovey helped me greatly when I was being wrongfully accused. They are hard working, communicate well, and always have their clients’ best interests in mind. They helped me win my appeal and I’m forever grateful for them. I would highly recommend them as criminal defense attorneys.
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11 Oct, 2024 by M
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17 Jul, 2024 by Amy kracht
Staff from Vogel Law recently assisted Minn-Kota PAAWS with the process of transitioning our Non-Profit from one state to another. This process was daunting for me as the Executive Director, with officials from each state advising me to hire a legal professional vs. taking the task on myself. Caren Stanley and DeAnn Lien made this process so easy and I and the Board of Directors were thankful our matters were in professional and capable hands. Thank you to DeAnn and Caren, we appreciate you both so much! : ) Minn-Kota PAAWS
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What a Federal Crime Lawyer Can Do for You

A federal crime lawyer specializes in defending individuals or organizations accused of violating federal laws. These lawyers have experience navigating the complex federal criminal justice system, which includes higher penalties, stricter sentencing guidelines, and a different court system than state-level crimes. Federal crime lawyers defend clients against a wide range of charges, such as drug trafficking, white-collar crimes, fraud, conspiracy, gun violations, and more. They assist in every phase of the legal process, from investigation to trial and appeals, ensuring their clients' rights are protected.

If you’re facing federal criminal charges, a federal crime lawyer can provide the necessary defense and expertise to navigate the complexities of federal law and achieve the best possible outcome.

When Should I Hire a Federal Crime Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a federal crime lawyer in any situation where you are under investigation or have been charged with a federal crime. Key scenarios include:

  • Charged with a federal crime: If you’ve been charged with a federal offense, such as drug trafficking, wire fraud, money laundering, or conspiracy, hiring a federal crime lawyer is essential to ensure your defense is tailored to federal court procedures and laws.
  • Target of a federal investigation: If you are being investigated by federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, ATF, or IRS, it’s crucial to retain a lawyer early on. A lawyer can help you avoid self-incrimination and build a defense strategy to counter the investigation.
  • White-collar crimes: If you’ve been accused of federal white-collar crimes such as securities fraud, embezzlement, or insider trading, a lawyer can help defend you against charges brought by federal prosecutors and regulatory agencies like the SEC.
  • Drug-related charges: If you’re facing federal drug charges, such as possession, distribution, or trafficking of controlled substances, a lawyer can represent you in federal court and negotiate plea deals or challenge the prosecution’s case.
  • Gun-related offenses: If you’ve been charged with federal gun crimes, including illegal possession, trafficking, or using a firearm during a violent crime, a federal crime lawyer can help defend against harsh federal penalties.
  • Immigration-related crimes: Federal charges involving immigration violations, such as human trafficking, smuggling, or illegal re-entry after deportation, require specialized legal knowledge of both federal criminal law and immigration law.
  • Appeals: If you’ve been convicted of a federal crime and are seeking to appeal the conviction or sentence, a federal crime lawyer can assist with the appeals process, focusing on legal errors or issues that may have occurred during the trial.

Hiring a lawyer as soon as you know you are under investigation or charged with a federal crime gives you the best chance of protecting your rights and building a strong defense.

What Does a Federal Crime Lawyer Do?

A federal crime lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to defend individuals and organizations accused of federal crimes. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Defending clients in federal court: Federal crime lawyers represent clients in all stages of federal criminal proceedings, including pre-trial motions, plea negotiations, trials, and sentencing hearings.
  • Building a defense strategy: Lawyers thoroughly investigate the charges, review the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to the unique aspects of federal law and sentencing guidelines.
  • Negotiating plea deals: In some cases, a lawyer may negotiate with federal prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties, potentially avoiding a lengthy trial and reducing sentencing.
  • Handling federal investigations: If you are the subject of a federal investigation, a lawyer will guide you on how to interact with federal agents, respond to subpoenas, and handle potential interrogations, ensuring your rights are not violated.
  • Filing pre-trial motions: Federal crime lawyers can file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or challenge the legality of the investigation or arrest, aiming to weaken the prosecution’s case before trial.
  • Representing clients in appeals: If you’ve been convicted, a federal crime lawyer can represent you in the appeals process, focusing on legal errors, misconduct, or constitutional issues that may have affected the trial’s outcome.
  • Managing sentencing and post-conviction matters: Lawyers also help clients during the sentencing phase, arguing for leniency or alternatives to imprisonment, and assist with post-conviction matters such as parole or supervised release violations.

How Are Federal Crime Lawyers Paid?

Federal crime lawyers typically charge for their services in various ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the expected time commitment. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rate: Many federal crime lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $300 to $1,000 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience, the case complexity, and geographic location.
  • Flat fee: For specific services, such as negotiating a plea deal or representing you during the initial stages of a federal investigation, some lawyers offer a flat fee. Flat fees for federal criminal defense cases often range from $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the scope of the work.
  • Retainer: In complex federal cases, a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers a portion of the legal work. The lawyer then bills against this retainer as they work on the case. Retainers typically range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the case.
  • Payment plans: Some federal crime lawyers may offer payment plans, especially if the case involves extended litigation or lengthy appeals. This can help make legal fees more manageable over time.

It’s crucial to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront to understand the total cost of representation and how payments will be handled throughout the case.

How Much Does a Federal Crime Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a federal crime lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the time required to resolve the case. General cost estimates include:

  • Hourly rates: Federal crime lawyers generally charge between $300 and $1,000 per hour. For example, if a lawyer charges $500 per hour and spends 50 hours on your case, the total cost would be $25,000.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as negotiating a plea deal, flat fees can range from $5,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the seriousness of the charges and the lawyer’s experience.
  • Retainers: In more complex or ongoing cases, a lawyer may require a retainer of $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the case’s scope and complexity.
  • Appeals: If you’re appealing a federal conviction, legal fees for an appeal can range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the issues being raised and the length of the appellate process.

In addition to legal fees, you may also need to cover additional costs such as court filing fees, expert witness fees, and investigation expenses.

Top Questions to Ask a Federal Crime Lawyer

Before hiring a federal crime lawyer, it’s essential to ask key questions to ensure they have the necessary experience and qualifications to handle your case. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with federal cases?
    Ensure the lawyer has extensive experience handling federal criminal cases, particularly those similar to yours, such as drug trafficking, white-collar crimes, or gun violations.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost of your defense.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case and the potential outcomes, including plea deals, dismissals, or trial strategies.
  4. What is your approach to defending federal cases?
    Ask how the lawyer plans to approach your defense, including potential pre-trial motions, negotiations with federal prosecutors, or trial strategies.
  5. Will my case go to trial?
    Ask whether the lawyer thinks your case will settle out of court through a plea deal or whether it’s expected to go to trial, and how the lawyer will prepare for either scenario.
  6. How long will my case take?
    Federal cases can take time to resolve, so ask the lawyer for an estimated timeline, from investigation to trial or settlement.
  7. What are the possible penalties if convicted?
    Ask about the potential penalties you could face if convicted, including prison time, fines, or other consequences, and how the lawyer plans to mitigate those penalties.

How to Check the Credibility of a Federal Crime Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable federal crime lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:

  • Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions or complaints.
  • Look for federal crime experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in federal criminal defense and have successfully handled cases like yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about their experience with the lawyer.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on federal cases.
  • Check for federal court admissions: Make sure the lawyer is admitted to practice in federal court, as federal criminal cases are handled in federal district courts.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a federal crime lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Information about the charges or investigation: Provide any documents related to the charges against you, such as indictments, subpoenas, or notices of investigation. This helps the lawyer assess the severity of the charges and the potential defense strategy.
  • Details of previous interactions with federal agents: If federal agents have contacted you or conducted searches, provide a detailed account of those interactions, including search warrants, interrogations, or evidence seized.
  • Questions about your case: Prepare a list of questions regarding the legal process, potential outcomes, and how the lawyer plans to defend you.
  • Relevant financial information: If your case involves financial crimes or assets that may be at risk, bring relevant financial records, such as bank statements, business records, or tax returns.
  • Previous legal history: If you have a prior criminal record or have been involved in federal investigations before, bring details about those cases.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal defense for your federal case.

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