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26 Aug, 2024 by John weiss
Troy Krich is a very knowledgeable and personable attorney. He is a good listener and is thorough in his responses. I recommend him for real estate and general legal questions and issues.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Infuse10
Tom was great to work with and provided timely status updates.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Sasha mashoud
I am deeply disappointed with the services provided by Hoffman & Forde in San Diego. Despite scheduling an appointment, NICK KRITIKOS was rude, never called me, and seemed disinterested in my case. To make matters worse, I was charged $485 for absolutely no communication or progress. I never spoke to anyone on the phone and they still charged me. Taking time off work for the appointment only added to the frustration. I strongly advise against using this firm.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Nicholas
Russell Babcock and Logan Noblin What can I say about Russell and Logan, along with Anna Yum and the rest of the incredible team....they saved my life and got me back home to my family! From the start Russell was very skeptical and realistic of my charges, and the likelihood that things would go my way. As our relationship grew and more details and facts about the case came out, things slowly started to change. He and Logan really started to believe in me. As the case kept going, with the DAs reluctance to see this for what it was, Russell, Logan and Anna, continued to have the difficult talks of the realities and risks of continuing on towards trial, and not agreeing to take a plea deal for something I was innocent of. I appreciated their willingness to have the hard talks. It was an incredibly horrible position to be in, but with their belief in me, it helped me push forward. Unfortunately the DA did push things to trial. Right from the start of trial, I couldn't help but feel confident. From Russell's unmatched experience, and his incredible mind that is always thinking of every angle and working non stop, to Logan's cool, calm presence and complete control of the courtroom. They were the perfect team! They bounced questions and ideas off each other the entire trial. Their preparation showed every step of the way. They were always courteous to the judge, related things to jurors, had great questioning of the witnesses, and came out on top with every exchange with the DA. Results were unanimous not guilty verdict within one hour of deliberations! Russell and Logan were total rock stars from start to finish. Anna Yum was amazing and knew exactly the right pair to assign to take on my case. 5 stars in every way!! I would not only refer them to any one I know that finds themselves needing a defense lawyer, but I would not let them go with anyone else! Thank you Anna, Russell, Logan, Jorge, and every one else that helped on my case, and is a part of this amazing law firm!!
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22 Jul, 2024 by Johnny garcia
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28 Dec, 2023 by Barry
Lauren just assisted me with a case. I'm from out of state (Iowa), and Lauren handled everything for me and I was able to get the issue settled with Lauren's assistance over the phone and via email. Great job Lauren!!! Nothing personal Lauren, but I hope I never need you again. LOL. But if I ever do need any legal assistance again, you can bet that I will come back to The Anna Yum law firm looking for Lauren.
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16 Jul, 2022 by Jason
Knut Johnson was able to study the entire white collar case, and provide logical steps to advocate for positive outcome. Knut served me with a high level of integrity and is someone I would highly recommend to support any future clients.
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15 Jul, 2022 by Isaac
Back in 2020 I was framed with some drugs in my spare tire in Tijuana, when I try to cross the border I got arrested, it was overwhelming to me, I didn't have any money for attorney at law services, the court assigned this attorney , it was a long walk but everything came out more then I expected. I Was able to fight my case from outside, once Mr. Johnson actually believed in me everything was down the hill Thanks to his commitment and experience we were able to come forward, with the expected result, after 14 months the DA dismissed the charges and I was able to go back home. Thanks again Mr Johnson for saving my life, my gratitude is eternal JOHNSON C
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21 May, 2018 by James
Knut Johnson represented me after the 9th Circuit fired my first attorney. He found a flaw in my plea agreement, the 9th Circuit Court agreed, I got a new sentencing and was released time served. In my eyes, Knut Johnson is a miracle worker.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Johnny garcia
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18 Aug, 2023 by John h
Nick is the best attorney in San Diego in my opinion.
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09 Jul, 2022 by Elizabeth fogarty
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12 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I’m assuming all the good reviews are from years ago— which tracks because as of 2020s Marc’s skills are little to desire. He’s rude, arrogant and worse incompetent. Please look at his reviews across the internet not just AVVO.
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10 Jul, 2021 by Perfernottosay
I already had a horrible situation but to be faced with no good representation was even worse. Marc Geller threw in the towel and gave up for me. when I asked him to try he refused. I fired him and I wouldn't recommend him to anyone. it just goes to show it doesn't matter how many years you have been working in a profession experience doesn't equal knowledge.
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29 Jul, 2018 by Riley
I have hired Marc for 3 seperate cases, each with exceptional results considering my lengthy criminal record. The first case was Assault on a Police Officer. After being offered 10 plus years, i was a bit nervous. I consulted Marc and he told me he would do what he can. I ended up pleading guilty of Resisting Arrest and was given probation and community service. About a year later, i was charged with Felon in possesion of a fire-arm. Possesion of Heroin for sale. Possesion of Methamphetamine for sale. Burglary tools. A few months later while put on bail for that case i was charged with Felon in Possession of a fire-arm. Possession of Heroin for sales. They were offering me 14 years by the time all the enhancements were tallied on. We ended up taking a deal for 1 count of Felon in possession of a fire-arm and 1 count of Possession of Heroin for sales. He came and saw me while i was in jail to keep me in the loop. He talked with my family regularly and gave them hope. Here i sit now 1 year after sentencing, a free man and on the right path. After 6 months in jail i went to a rehab. I will be on probation for thw next 2 years which all things considered is amazing. After finishing the rehab i was in i consulted him on an Interstate Compact and the judge and DA had no qualms about it. Anyone needing a Defense Attorney, this is the man to go to. He put his all into my cases and my family and I reaped the benefits.
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02 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
hired this liar for my son's case he took us for $7,500 up front filed conflict of interest and dropped the case, don't waste your money and time with this guy,,, nice scam Donte Wyatt
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19 Apr, 2024 by Crissy
I paid him $2500 to help get my son's charge reduced and expunged. We live out of state but the charge was in SD. He took my money and said it should be resolved within two to three months. That was over three years ago. He stopped returning my calls. I spoke to another attorney this week and he said it doesn't look like Donte ever filed anything. Do not hire this man. I don't consider him ethical. I will be reporting him.
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13 Aug, 2021 by Nicole
I hired Mr. Wyatt to get my husband resentenced, and he charged me $5,000 and never got one meeting with the DA, never filed one motion, he lied saying he knew the head DDA Dwain Woodley. He had me gather character letters, my husband C-File, he led us on for 8 months. Then he stop answering phone calls, we are left in the dust, and he got away with $5,000 of my money. Do not hire him, he's a scam. He told me he would refund my money, and he just ghosted me. This is not right, and my husband never got a chance to present his case, because we trusted in the wrong Attorney. Do not hire this Lawyer, he's very unprofessional, and he's a liar.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Dan
Mr. Malowney is an excellent Attorney. I hired him to provide me with a second opinion. He was kind enough to meet me at night, because that was the only time I could meet. He carefully and thoroughly reviewed everything, and provided me with measured, insightful advice. I could not have asked for more.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Nicholas boragi
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15 May, 2024 by Tom rocco
It is with profound respect and gratitude that I extend my heartfelt endorsement for Justin Walker, Jared Veliz, Lorrie Walker and the whole support team at Walker Law whose dedication, perseverance, and tireless advocacy have left an indelible mark on my life. Despite facing one of the largest corporations in the world, Justin and Jared stood resolute and fearless, embodying the very essence of bravery and commitment to justice. Throughout the legal proceedings, Jared and Justin demonstrated not only their exceptional legal acumen but also a deep sense of empathy and friendship that has greatly endeared them to me. Their readiness to confront formidable challenges and navigate complex legal landscapes was nothing short of inspiring. These are unique and special individuals—the kind of individuals you want with you in your foxhole during the most intense battles and scariest of times. Although the outcome was not entirely in our favor, the measure of their success is not merely found in the verdict, but in the relentless spirit and boundless energy they brought into advocating for me and my case. Their sacrifices, grit and devotion did not go unnoticed, and their steadfast dedication continues to resonate with me and all who have the privilege of knowing them. Justin, Jared and the whole Walker Law team are not just my attorneys; they have become my honored allies, friends and trusted advisors. Their profound commitment to their clients and the cause of justice makes them truly commendable and deserving of the highest praise. Before, during and after trial, Justin Walker displayed the most genuine and heartfelt concern for my well-being and the well-being of my family. He did so even when it would have been understandable, reasonable and justified to instead only focus on his own well-being or that of his team members and family. I love the individuals I’ve been privileged enough to spend time with during this journey. I thank God that Justin, Jared, Lorrie and their team have come into my life. I recommend Walker Law to anyone seeking the very highest level of legal expertise and advocacy. Their professionalism and integrity are exemplary, and they represent the best of what the legal profession has to offer.
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30 Dec, 2023 by Robert hoadley
Skip has represented me twice. Both experiences were educational, professional, and perfectly successful.
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08 Nov, 2022 by Parker harris
Skip and his assistant are unprofessional and wasted my time. They didn’t remember facts of case or even the conversations around it. Set up multiple appointments which they cancelled last minute. Highly recommend seeking other counsel.
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22 Dec, 2021 by Jean notte
So far he's an excellent attorney. Spoke with him directly, he spent some time gathering. Info on my initial call himself. Scheduled in person consult within a week during that phone call. Left me with some research to complete to further my position. So far he is right to the point, gets things done; a roll up your sleeves and plow through it kinda lawyer. I like it and hope it stays this "full steam ahead".
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

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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