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13 Jan, 2025 by Carl slater
Exceptional Service and Expertise! From the very first consultation, they made me feel heard, understood, and supported during a difficult time. The team demonstrated unmatched expertise in employment law, guiding me through every step of the process with professionalism and care. They took the time to answer all of my questions, which made a huge difference in my peace of mind. I highly recommend them to anyone facing workplace issues or legal concerns. You’ll be in excellent hands!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Veronica montenegro
It was such a godsent to have Melissa and her team represent me. Melissa understood my case, helped me navigate all my options and understand what was ahead. Not only is Melissa the consummate professional and an extremely competent advocate, but she is compassionate and empathetic. From the very first consultation to the final resolution, Melissa, Ivey and Jennifer were always accessible, clearly explained all steps and were always available to answer all my questions and concerns. I cannot recommend the Washington Law Firm LLP enough!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Felicia guity
I was consistently impressed with how this team operated and addressed my legal issues. They were pragmatic, discerning and caring. I highly recommend this legal team.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Michael blomstrom
Jamison was an incredible help for our family. Responsive, knowledgeable, and goes above and beyond for his client. Thank you for all your assistance!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Michael dukes
Very caring and helpful. He’s truly honest and treat his clients right. I wouldn’t be where I’m at if it wasn’t for him. Great guy!!!!
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19 Dec, 2023 by Niya ross
Mr. Koehler did his absolute best with everything pertaining to my case. We communicated throughout the entire process and answered any questions that I had. I felt comfortable and he was very professional. I would definitely recommend him to anyone looking for a criminal defense lawyer.
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14 May, 2021 by A. d. hyde
An excellent practice with high performance counsel
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28 Feb, 2018 by Haris
Mr. Ferrari was extremely knowledgeable and represented us with utmost professionalism throughout our case. He came to us highly recommended based on his winning record and he did not disappoint. Right from the beginning he was very thorough and diligent and always kept us informed. Mr. Ferrari was able to close our case successfully and we are forever indebted to him. We were very lucky to have hired him for our case and I would recommend him to anyone without hesitation. Well done!
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24 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
I retained Mr. Ferrari's devices for a very close friend of mine. Erich was prompt, responsible, honest, creative, and always supportive. I recommend his work with no hesitation whatsoever.
Thank you so much!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Michael murphy
I've known Joe Scrofano for nearly ten years. He and I were classmates at the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College. Joe is one of the most creative and innovative lawyers I've ever met. He has a passion for his work and he puts his all into every case he takes on. I highly recommend his firm to anyone out there in need of a strong defense in the DC area.
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13 Jan, 2025 by Calvin pringle
Joe Scrafano was instrumental in helping me with my appeal case. His deep knowledge of the law, combined with his professionalism and dedication, made an incredibly stressful situation much easier to handle. Joe took the time to explain every step of the process, ensuring I felt confident and informed throughout.
His ability to navigate the complexities of my case and his commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were truly impressive.
If you're looking for an attorney who is both compassionate and extremely capable, Joe Scrafano is your guy. I am beyond grateful for his help and highly recommend him and the team at Scrafano Law. They are simply the best!
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13 Jan, 2025 by Siomara santos hernandez
22 Jan, 2025 by Michael murphy
I've known Joe Scrofano for nearly ten years. He and I were classmates at the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College. Joe is one of the most creative and innovative lawyers I've ever met. He has a passion for his work and he puts his all into every case he takes on. I highly recommend his firm to anyone out there in need of a strong defense in the DC area.
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13 Jan, 2025 by Calvin pringle
Joe Scrafano was instrumental in helping me with my appeal case. His deep knowledge of the law, combined with his professionalism and dedication, made an incredibly stressful situation much easier to handle. Joe took the time to explain every step of the process, ensuring I felt confident and informed throughout.
His ability to navigate the complexities of my case and his commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were truly impressive.
If you're looking for an attorney who is both compassionate and extremely capable, Joe Scrafano is your guy. I am beyond grateful for his help and highly recommend him and the team at Scrafano Law. They are simply the best!
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13 Jan, 2025 by Siomara santos hernandez
11 Sep, 2022 by Maros
Mr. Vernia represented me in three cases against two billion dollar companies, single-handedly winning all three of them, securing a substantial monetary compensation. In the first case Mr. Vernia filed a successful qui tam (whistleblower) suit against a major aerospace company which was overcharging government clients. The DoJ thanked us for our efforts and rewarded us with a substantial relator share compensation, together with attorney fees. In the second, retaliation case, Mr. Vernia obtained a substantial monetary settlement from the company. In the third case, Mr. Vernia tirelessly defended me, my family, and my small business against a large company who filed a meritless strike suit in their attempt to take my business down as its only competitor. Mr. Vernia filed dozens of motions and fought to the end against the company and its 21-person team consisting of fourteen lawyers. As a result of Mr. Vernia’s effort and his knowledge of the Defense Trade Secret Act, we won the entire case on summary judgment, while exposing the company’s lies and fabrications.
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29 May, 2022 by Shan
Ben Vernia’s is an absolute gem of a lawyer. His calm personality made me feel safe when everything was falling apart. He took care of me like no other attorney has ever done. He got me the outcome I wanted and I highly recommend his law firm.
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22 Nov, 2021 by Laurie
He literally saved the case.
I found myself in a bind: headed to a notorious Circuit Court and the senior attorney I had hired had pawned my case off to a junior associate who had botched it all. In fact, we were weeks from submitting the brief and they were totally unprepared.
I was given the name of Ben Vernia from successful attorneys in that circuit and called. Most folks aren’t interested in federal whistleblowers who did the right thing but aren’t likely to yield lots and lots of cash, but Mr. Vernia cared more about saving my dignity and preserving my case. Mr. Vernia got right to work on my case and impressed me in several important ways.
He was transparent about his fees. He estimated hours in advance so I could plan approximate costs. This kept my anxiety and budget within control.
Mr. Vernia was calm and compassionate. He listened to me. He was respectful. He helped me understand the process we would be engaging in so I could know what to expect.
Mr. Vernia was skilled. He developed careful arguments and delivered them expertly. I was so impressed.
I would happily employ him as an attorney in the future. He is a wonderful person and professional.
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15 May, 2020 by Pinchas
I was a victim of the crude FBI set-up. To make things worse got some incompetent attorney who completely screwed me. Thank G-d for Jeff. He calmed me and my wife down, got things under control. Overall had great experience. Very caring, professional highly recommend. Not too many people like him.
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27 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Jeff and Rachel helped me navigate a difficult case with extreme knowledge of the law and professionalism. Jeff was able to negotiate favorable terms for me and stop any potential prosecution.
The Ifrah legal team is the best legal representation I have ever had. If you need legal defense, call Jeff!!
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30 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
When I found myself being charged with crimes that I did not commit, Jeff willingly took up the case because it was the right thing to do. He worked closely with me to explain each step of the court process, give new information as soon as he got it, and followed up after the process was over. I know that Jeff usually only handles high profile cases that one can read about in the news, but he did this in his own time for very little money because he is a moral man. Jeff is hands down the most knowledgeable and skillful lawyer that I have ever met, and would certainly recommend him to anyone that is able to fit into his schedule.
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28 Sep, 2019 by Terry
Jim Trusty was considered to be an outstanding State Attorney when working among prosecutors for Andrew Sonner, Montgomery's elected State Attorney
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14 Jul, 2017 by David
Extremely experienced and knowledgeable in federal practice, especially federal criminal procedure, evidence, and racketeering and gambling statutes. Sensitive to client concerns.
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29 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Bruce assisted me with reckless by speed citations in VA twice. He was candid and professional in all our communication. He also knows his way around multiple districts in VA. He lays out the facts of the situation, advises thoroughly and professionally represents his clients. I highly recommend Bruce Cooper.
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24 Jun, 2015 by Rita
From the initial conversation until the end of my court case, Mr. Cooper was extremely professional, courteous, empathetic, patient, knowledgeable and a man of immediate action. He is very clear, concise, trustworthy, well connected and detailed when outlining his expectations to assist me in making my case easier to expedite. Before meeting Mr Cooper, I was extremely confused with my case and so many parties involved but he made each step seamless the moment he took over. He was easy to reach at any time and was thorough in his explanations. At the end of the day, he ensured that all parties were satisfied, understood the specifics as well s even followed up afterwards. I would highly recommend Mr Cooper to anyone that is seeking a true professional that knows their craft inside and out!
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11 Nov, 2015 by Janei
I consulted Mr. Burnham about a legal problem. Thankfully it didn’t go to trial, but the consultation / advice I received from Mr. Burnham was first rate. He is a skillfully attorney who is extremely knowledgeable, fair and ethical. I would recommend him without hesitation.
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24 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I have used Charles Burnham on two separate occasions and could not speak more highly of him. Neither were major cases, but his knowledge and commitment were indispensable in winning both of my cases. I strongly recommend him.
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30 May, 2013 by James
20 years ago (1994) Barry saved my job at Georgetown University. I was since promoted and received several employee commendations. I retired from the university in 2003 and as a result of the staff benefits package, my son who was 5 years old at the time, received the dependent tuition. He graduated this month from the University of Maryland with honors. Although I have not spoken to Barry in over twenty years, I credit his wisdom, intelligence and fortitude for making this all possible for me, my wife Faith and Zach. We will be forever greatful. Which is why I have no problem with leaving my name.
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03 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Barry helped me to save my son's life. He so well represented him in our legal case; but, that was only a part of his excellence. He helped my son to survive with his knowlege of psychology , his compassion, caring and support, so my son did not act on his suicide thoughts. Barry helped him to maintain his drug sobriety through an incredibly difficult and painful legal case. My son was suicidal from the angst of this case which required my son to look back at his years of child abuse and then into his past drug addiction. Barry worked with my son, my son's psychologist and with me to get through this ordeal. Barry followed through perfectly and quickly on any matter that needed attention. I never had to wait for a response in those difficult months which spanned well over a year. Quite an accomplishment! He developed positive relationships with the prosecution and kept things on as even keel as possible. I highly recommend Barry and am grateful to have found him.
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12 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Dillon is very good at handling campus disciplinary cases. He knows how to navigate the system and provides great advice. His team is very responsive and high quality.
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24 Aug, 2018 by Uuche
Great legal representation and counsel. An easy going fellow with a great personality. Pleasant Brodnax is the right and best choice for anyone seeking assistance on white collar issues. You will not be disappointed as satisfaction from his legal services is guaranteed.
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30 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Great lawyer! Nice man with a great personality who gets the job done professionally! He really helped my family out when we needed him! He gives great advice and has a lot of experience too! Kept us in the loop and he explained everything so that we could really understand our situation!
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05 Feb, 2025 by John
Amy Collins in short is a phenomenal choice when selecting a criminal defense attorney. For most of us navigating criminal charges it is easily the most daunting experience of our lives. Amy's knowledge and experience immediately put me at ease as she assisted me in a complex Federal white collar case. After having several other "esteemed" lawyers from large law firms, Amy was the standout. Most lawyers are concerned about billable hours whereas Amy was focused solely on results. Not only was Amy able to negotiate and secure an amazing pretrial resolution but she has also been with me every step of the way post release. If you want an attorney who has an incredible knowledge of the law, cares about the results, and will guide you through every step of the process with minimal stress Amy should be at the very top of your list!
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10 Jan, 2025 by Christafer wren
I called and they transferred me to another person for a company called quickaid who was in another country. You can not speak to anyone in the United States! When asked to be transferred to someone in the United States, I was told "then you need to contact the Social Security Administration!" This company is horrible to deal with.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Corretta young
William and his team are amazing! They worked very hard on my case every step of the way. They are very knowledgeable and therefore kept me informed about the process and progress of my case. This injury was both physically and mentally challenging for me and they were very emphatic and supportive the entire time. Not to mention, pleasant to work with. Thank you very much William, Jess and Siara.
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17 Dec, 2024 by April hicks
I thank William Lightfoot and Jestelle Hanrahan for dedicating their service as support to cases referred. Lightfoot Law does not bypass cases to get to the easier cases and they don’t treat people like numbers. Rather, the leaders at Lightfoot Law understand the value of justice and will work hard to fight for your rights.
Jestelle Hanrahan, William Lightfoot, and a host of attorneys at Lightfoot Law are by far the most genuine, case- driven, supportive, and knowledgeable attorneys that I have ever met, and I will continue to present them with new leads as referral.
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24 May, 2017 by Anonymous
very knowledgable and attentive, also free consulation. Attorney Dajani gave me best consultation in several legal cases I had.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Tawfik saadeh
Working with Garfield Law Group was truly a life-changing experience, and I cannot recommend him highly enough to anyone seeking help with an asylum case. From our very first consultation, it was clear that David possessed not only exceptional knowledge of immigration law but also a deep sense of empathy and an unwavering passion for helping those in need.
David and his team demonstrated an extraordinary understanding of the complexities of asylum law. They meticulously analyzed my case, highlighted its key strengths, and crafted a personalized strategy to achieve the best possible outcome. Their expertise, combined with their up-to-date awareness of legal developments, was crucial in navigating the intricacies of my situation.
What truly set David apart was his genuine care and commitment. He listened to my story with patience and respect, making me feel seen, heard, and valued throughout the process. In moments of doubt and fear, David offered reassurance and guidance, helping me remain focused and hopeful, even during the long wait.
David and his team consistently kept me informed at every stage of the journey. They were always accessible, promptly addressing my questions and providing clear, honest explanations about what to expect. Their transparency and dedication made an otherwise daunting process feel manageable and gave me immense peace of mind.
After waiting 5 years and 4 months, my asylum case was finally approved, thanks to David's hard work, meticulous preparation, and brilliant representation. He never gave up, consistently staying in contact with the asylum office to follow up on my case. This outcome has given me and my family the priceless opportunity to rebuild our lives and embrace a safer, brighter future.
If you are searching for an immigration lawyer who combines exceptional legal expertise with genuine compassion and dedication, I wholeheartedly recommend Garfield Law Group, PC. They are not just lawyers; they are advocates, guides, and true allies who will stand by you every step of the way. I am forever grateful for the profound impact David has had on my life.
Thank you, David, and your entire team, for everything you have done and continue to do. May God bless you ALL.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Wendy guevara
Estoy super agradecidad con ustedes sin ustedes no hubiese sido posible agradesco adios por averlos puesto en mi camino ganaron mi caso ahora ya tengo 3 aňos con mi recidencia los rrecomiendo atodos son los mejores 🥰🙏🙏🙏
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17 Oct, 2024 by Ahmad ramadan
Very professional, thorough, and efficient team. They helped me get my green card and had previously helped my wife and her family get their green cards and eventually citizenship. Thank you all!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Lovell djieya
Best Law Firm I know!!!! Always willing to help!!. Magnificent results whether it is Personal injury, criminal or family law
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12 Dec, 2024 by Proud to be clothing company
Dave went above and beyond on so many levels to get the job done! Dave is there when you need him most and will pull through time and time again! I would highly recommend!!
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10 Dec, 2024 by Dennis rivera
I love PB! High quality service.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Mercy poteet
In my forty years in business, I have yet to come across someone as knowledgeable and helpful as Mr. War. From our first phone meeting to when my trademark and patent were issued, he went above and beyond to ensure the process succeeded. I can't think of a single way he could have improved his excellent service. Thank you isn’t enough! Steve, you helped me do what seemed impossible!
Mercy Poteet / Flame Stacker Fire Pit
9/26/2004
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30 Jul, 2024 by Deepak ganesan
No nonsense, quick and understanding. Excellent service. Got my requested service done within a week. Walked me through every step.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Michael harper
Attorney War is amazing to cooperate with. He is very knowledgeable, punctual, and encouraging. He understands the agenda and executes fearlessly. Thanks!
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18 Oct, 2024 by Rosita somarriba
Ganaron mi caso en el 2019 los mejores
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26 Mar, 2023 by Teh grl
Came here for a young real estate council event. The offices are hip and modern and very VIP vibe. If you get a chance to go do so!!!
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14 Mar, 2021 by Sharn rodriguez
Great food, great drinks!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Liz martin
02 Mar, 2022 by Tairy hesticles
I was contacted about a class actio. case and it was requested that I speak with a paralegal for an hour during my workday. I was asked up front my gender and race. After an hour long conversation, there was a follow-up email explaining that my gender and race disqualified me from the case. I wasted my lunch giving valuable information for a case that they knew up front I did not qualify for. Thanks for wasting my lunch break.
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11 Nov, 2021 by Herve simo
14 Oct, 2020 by Kevin
The poster of the negative review received full compensation and attorneys fees for his claim. We were his successor counsel after his first attorney ended the representation. A dispute arose over whether attorneys fees could be credited in any way back to the client, something federal law prohibits. The firm provided the client full relief, this we were surprised by his review, particularly after he expressed appreciation for the firm’s efforts.
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15 Jun, 2018 by Frank h
I was a client of Kevin Byrnes and I would not recommend him as an attorney. Don’t construed experience as success. Ambiguity with him is your loss. As a client, I did not like that he constantly boasted of select past cases and I also did not like the ongoing attorney/client disagreements. My recommendation? Take your chances with another attorney. I’ve also noticed one of his employees recommended him in a review. I’ll end this review as I started it: “Caveat Emptor or Retain at your own RISK.”
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01 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I consulted Mr. Caleb on a case, he was not timely in his responses, his suggested approach seemed to push the legal envelope, and his office staff was unorganized and rude.
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11 May, 2016 by Geoffrey
I worked with Joe on a complicated case involving tricky questions of law. I was very impressed by Joe's professional attitude and commitment to our client. He was always diligent, and on top of things. I have no hesitation in endorsing this fine attorney.
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15 Dec, 2018 by Kevin
I hired this attorney to represent my son in a criminal case in which he was innocent in Pennsylvania. I was charged $37,000 by this attorney and the way he spoke to us, I've got to tell you he could sell boots to a fish. He neglected to subpoena the proper Witnesses, even after we had asked him to please bring my son's analyst and psychiatrist into the court. He assured me that my son was innocent and this was easy and he could handle it. When we got to court, attorney Raleigh by professional omission, failed to rebut or argue false accusations and even lies that were in written form on the psychiatrist's report, which would have exonerated my son and attorney Raleigh froze solid. Attorney Raleigh cost my son his life. He neglected to petition the proper Witnesses, stood silent during false accusations. My son realizing what was happening, spoke out in court on his own to the judge while attorney Raleigh tried to silence him. Thank God the judge listened to what my son had to say and reduced his unnecessary sentence considerably. After the hearing attorney Raleigh spoke to me privately on the way to his automobile and told me he was sorry and he would not object if we wanted to claim ineffective counsel. I am just a working guy, it took everything we had to hire this attorney so to start another hearing was financially impossible and my son continues to suffer. Although thanks to my son's own intuition he is a free man to a degree. I approached attorney Raleigh and he denied ever having that conversation with me before telling me that the company he is now with, after relocating his practice to Washington DC, would object to him assisting my son in what he himself, attorney Raleigh caused. I was once a believer of Truth and honor. Don't get caught in what we did.
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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:
-
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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.
