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18 Apr, 2024 by Lidia
Stephen provided exceptional service, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail throughout my case. His expertise in military law was invaluable in securing a favorable outcome. Stephen's personalized care and dedication are commendable, ensuring I received the best representation possible. I highly recommend Stephen D. Simpson, Associate Attorney.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Stephen D Simpson is a true professional and expert of his craft. I hired Stephen a few months back for assistance and guidance regarding a preliminary investigation from my command and I’m was thoroughly impressed with his knowledge and the guidance he provided. This was the first time I’d ever been investigated and he provided me with the right guidance and assistance to ultimately clear my name. He constantly kept me updated to any developments, and tirelessly followed up with my Chain of Command keeping my best interest at heart even though I was in a different time zone. I would 100 percent recommend and retain if you need an attorney that understands military law and will fight for you!
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03 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I write this review with profound gratitude and utmost respect for Mr. Simpson, whose expertise in military law and courts-martial is unparalleled. I found myself in need of his services when I was accused of a serious infraction under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) - specifically, Article 112a, Wrongful Use, Possession of Controlled Substances. From the moment I stepped into Stephen's office, I was met with a sense of understanding and professionalism that immediately put me at ease. The charges looming over me were severe, threatening to dismantle my career and reputation. However, Stephen's calm demeanor and assertive assurance provided a beacon of hope in an otherwise dark situation. Stephen's work ethic is second to none. He delved into my case with an analytical precision, sifting through the evidence, and leaving no stone unturned. It was his relentless pursuit of the truth that uncovered crucial inconsistencies in the prosecution's case. I was accused of being in possession of controlled substances during a routine military inspection. However, Stephen's meticulous investigation revealed procedural errors in the search, as well as mishandling of the evidence collected. His ability to identify these crucial points and articulate them effectively was nothing short of impressive. Armed with these findings, Stephen challenged the prosecution, advocating fiercely on my behalf. His deep knowledge of the UCMJ and military courts' procedures was evident in every interaction. Because of Stephen's dedication and unwavering commitment, the charges against me were dropped. The sense of relief I felt is indescribable, and it was all thanks to Stephen's exceptional performance and dedication. If you are a servicemember facing charges under the UCMJ, I cannot recommend Stephen highly enough. His expertise, combined with his genuine care for his clients, makes him an outstanding choice. He is not just an attorney; he is a lifeline in your toughest hour.
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05 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I wish I wasn’t in the position of writing this review. And if you are reading this I’m sorry for whatever situation you find yourself in. But I would say that hiring Katie and Andrew to represent me was a well paid off investment.
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12 Mar, 2020 by Daniel
Catherine Mary Cherkasky (aka Katie) is indisputably the best military lawyer in the world. Katie has represented me for over 2 years now. Katie is brilliant, articulate, intelligent, and beautiful. She possesses huge amounts of common sense, and is cool, calm & collected at all times. I can think of no finer professional who performs their duties in a noteworthy manner! Fox News agrees with me...Katie is their “go to” expert on many legal issues. It was crazy being in confinement, and seeing “my lawyer” opining on Fox News, regarding some legal issue of the day...it gave me inspiration, and boosted my morale! Katie filed my Appellate Brief to the Navy-Marine Corps Court of Criminal Appeals on 24 September 2018. She made sure I got a copy the same day. The instant I read through it, I knew my serious conviction would be set aside “WITH PREJUDICE” for factual & legal insufficiency by the Appellate Court Judges. It took nine more long months in confinement, but on 1 July 2019, the Appellate Court Judges set aside my serious conviction “WITH PREJUDICE” and my sentence in its entirety! Imagine being me for a second at 1610 on 1 July 2019, and you get a legal call from your lawyer, informing you of the good news. I don’t get choked up often, being an Infantry Marine, but I was babbling like a baby that afternoon when Katie called me with the good news! Katie’s brief on my behalf will be studied by generations of future law school students. It was the perfect brief...read the transcript! The brief was so good that the Appellate Court didn’t require “Oral Arguments”...no need to waste time & money when Katie had laid it out so perfectly! Following my EXONERATION, Katie & Andy continued to stick with me. They negotiated my release from confinement, and “NO PUNISHMENT” for the remaining minor convictions. I will literally do anything for Katie until my last dying breath! Katie had my back through the Appellate Court’s total acquittal...I will have her back forever! Semper Fidelis, Formerly, Colonel Dan Wilson, USMC #JustDanNow!
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27 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Katie and Andy were wonderful to work with. From the very beginning they assured my family that they were on our side and would do everything in their power to win our case. They remained in constant contact with us throughout the whole process. We could not have asked for better lawyers which resulted in a win. The case was found to have no basis and thrown out. Thank you for everything Katie and Andy!
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29 Jan, 2024 by Nathan
Captain Kevin Courtney had worked on my case from November of 2022 to June 2023 and did phenomenal work. I would highly recommend this attorney for the job due to the persistence he has. I really liked the way he guided me to what he believed was best, but didn’t judge or get frustrated if I was hard headed. I deeply respect this attorneys admiration for his job.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Eric
Kevin is one of the most effective attorneys I’ve seen. He’s a creative problem solver, always professional, and gets top results. Not a plea pusher, he advocates for his clients and is not afraid to call out the government for their shortcomings. He left active duty service with one of the most impressive records at court-martial and is an invaluable asset for the team. Highly communicative, he is always available for a call and can explain the issues and options in a way that is easily understandable.
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02 Nov, 2023 by Abraham
Kevin Courtney represented me on July 2022. He brought up several potential courses of action, their likely chances of success, and discussed with me his recommendations moving forward. I felt as though Kevin Courtney was invested in my case both at the time, and he followed up with me to see how things were going. He is a level headed, factual, and thorough representative, and I would recommend his services.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Alex
I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding work Ryan did in helping me regain my security clearance. His expertise and dedication were evident from our first meeting, and he consistently went above and beyond to ensure a positive outcome. Ryan’s deep understanding of security clearance processes and his strategic approach to my case were instrumental in navigating the complexities involved. He meticulously prepared and presented a compelling case that highlighted my qualifications and commitment, addressing every concern with precision and clarity. Throughout the process, Ryan was always available to answer my questions, provide updates, and offer reassurance. His professionalism and clear communication made a stressful situation much more manageable, and I always felt confident knowing he was advocating on my behalf. Thanks to Ryan’s hard work and unwavering support, I am now able to continue my career without the burden of clearance issues. I highly recommend Ryan to anyone facing similar challenges. His expertise, dedication, and client-focused approach are truly exceptional. Thank you, Ryan, for your outstanding service and for making a significant positive impact on my career and future.
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20 May, 2024 by Jeremy fisher
Waste of money. Lacks contact with clients and empathy. Felt like just a means for them to get money. Don’t waste your time.
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09 May, 2024 by Michael lacey
Big shoutout to BRITTANY FORRESTER for a heavy lift mitigating a security clearance matter on my behalf. She was extremely knowledgeable of the response process as a whole and took the time to understood the nuances of my circumstances. I appreciated how she explained the firm's workflow to me without sounding like a robot, then guided me through the process of obtaining the additional support and information necessary to adequately mitigate the matter. She has a keen eye for detail and is responsive, thorough, and technically astute. Lastly, I was undecided in the beginning about whether retaining an attorney for this matter was worthwhile, but the finished response/work product I received made a believer out of me. If you are wondering whether you should retain an attorney or not for your matter, let me tell you that doing so put my mind at ease such that I could sleep, and getting to the finish line was very manageable...certainly more so than it would have been on my own. Brittany Forrester--and Tully Rinckey as a whole--is a solid referral.
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09 Mar, 2024 by Sebastien dessart (seppe)
Goede hulp
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Government Lawyer Can Do for You

A government lawyer specializes in legal issues related to government policies, regulations, and disputes involving public entities. Whether you are a private individual, business, or government agency, a government lawyer provides expert guidance on navigating the complexities of government law. These attorneys handle cases ranging from constitutional law, administrative law, regulatory compliance, and government contracts to defending or challenging government actions.

Government lawyers help individuals and organizations understand their rights and obligations under the law, represent them in disputes with government agencies, and assist in matters of government contracting, procurement, or public policy.

When Should I Hire a Government Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a government lawyer in several situations involving government regulations, compliance, or disputes. Common reasons to hire a government lawyer include:

  • Government contracts and procurement: If you are bidding for or negotiating a contract with a government agency, a lawyer can help ensure compliance with federal, state, or local contracting rules.
  • Regulatory compliance: Businesses operating in highly regulated industries (e.g., healthcare, finance, environmental sectors) often need legal guidance to comply with government regulations and avoid penalties.
  • Government investigations: If you're being investigated by a government agency such as the IRS, SEC, or EPA, a government lawyer can help defend you against allegations or negotiate settlements.
  • Challenging government actions: If a government agency has denied a permit, license, or benefit, a lawyer can help you appeal or challenge the decision in court.
  • Constitutional and civil rights issues: If you believe your constitutional rights have been violated by a government entity, such as in cases involving free speech or discrimination, a government lawyer can help you seek justice.
  • Public policy or lobbying efforts: If you are involved in lobbying or advocating for policy changes at the local, state, or federal level, a government lawyer can provide legal advice on compliance with lobbying laws and strategies for effective advocacy.

Hiring a government lawyer early in the process can help you navigate complex legal frameworks and avoid costly mistakes when dealing with government-related legal issues.

What Does a Government Lawyer Do?

A government lawyer provides a wide range of services that cover interactions between individuals, businesses, and government entities. They can:

  • Assist with government contracts: Helping clients navigate procurement laws, drafting contracts, and resolving disputes related to government contracting.
  • Provide regulatory compliance advice: Offering guidance on meeting regulatory requirements for industries subject to federal, state, or local laws.
  • Handle administrative law matters: Representing clients before government agencies, such as appealing administrative decisions, applying for permits, or defending against regulatory enforcement actions.
  • Challenge or defend government actions: Representing clients in lawsuits involving government agencies, including constitutional challenges, civil rights violations, or disputes over government decisions.
  • Negotiate settlements with government entities: If a government agency is pursuing legal action against you or your business, a lawyer can negotiate settlements to avoid costly litigation.
  • Advocate for policy changes: Advising clients on legal strategies for influencing public policy, including lobbying and drafting legislation.
  • Litigate constitutional issues: Handling cases related to the Constitution, such as First Amendment rights, due process violations, or unlawful government actions.

How Are Government Lawyers Paid?

Government lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the nature of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rate: For ongoing legal matters, such as regulatory compliance or government contract disputes, lawyers may charge by the hour. Hourly rates can vary depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Flat fee: For specific services, such as drafting a government contract or filing an administrative appeal, some lawyers charge a flat fee.
  • Retainer: For clients who need ongoing legal support, such as businesses frequently interacting with government agencies, a lawyer may charge a retainer fee. This is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
  • Contingency fee: In some cases involving litigation, such as civil rights violations, a lawyer may work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they win or settle the case.

It’s important to discuss fee structures with your lawyer during the initial consultation to avoid surprises.

How Much Does a Government Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a government lawyer depends on the complexity of the legal issue, the lawyer's experience, and their fee structure. Here are some general cost estimates:

  • Hourly rates: Government lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For specific legal services, such as drafting a government contract, flat fees can range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the nature of the service.
  • Retainer fees: A retainer for ongoing legal work with government agencies can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the scope and frequency of the work.
  • Contingency fees: In cases where a lawyer works on contingency, their fee is usually a percentage (typically 25% to 40%) of any settlement or damages awarded if the case is successful.

Be sure to get a clear estimate of costs during your consultation to ensure that you understand the fees associated with your case.

Top Questions to Ask a Government Lawyer

When hiring a government lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they have the experience and skills needed for your specific situation. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What is your experience with government law cases?
    Make sure the lawyer has substantial experience in handling cases or issues involving government agencies, regulatory compliance, or constitutional law.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for their services - whether by the hour, flat fee, retainer, or contingency fee - and request an estimate of costs.
  3. What are the potential outcomes of my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your legal options and the likelihood of success based on your specific situation.
  4. How do you handle interactions with government agencies?
    Ask about their approach to dealing with government entities and their experience with specific agencies relevant to your case (e.g., IRS, EPA, SEC).
  5. Have you handled cases like mine before?
    Ask about their experience with similar cases and whether they have achieved favorable outcomes in the past.
  6. Who will handle my case?
    Clarify whether the lawyer you are meeting with will personally handle your case or whether junior attorneys or paralegals will do most of the work.

How to Check the Credibility of a Government Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable government lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and has no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Review their professional experience: Look for specific experience in government-related legal issues, such as regulatory compliance, government contracts, or administrative law, on their website or professional profile.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Check online reviews and ratings on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to get insight into the lawyer’s reputation and track record.
  • Ask for references: Request references from previous clients who have worked with the lawyer on government-related matters to understand their experience and effectiveness.
  • Check for membership in relevant organizations: Look for memberships in professional organizations such as the American Bar Association's Administrative Law Section or the National Institute of Government Procurement, which can indicate the lawyer’s focus on government law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

  • Detailed description of your legal issue: Be prepared to explain your situation, whether it’s a regulatory compliance question, a government contract issue, or a dispute with a government agency.
  • Relevant documents: Bring any paperwork related to your case, such as contracts, permits, letters from government agencies, or notices of investigation.
  • A list of questions: Write down any questions you have about your case, including the legal process, potential outcomes, and costs.
  • Timeline of events: Provide a clear timeline of any relevant events, such as the issuance of government orders or interactions with government agencies.
  • Goals for the outcome: Be ready to discuss what you hope to achieve, whether it’s a favorable settlement, regulatory compliance, or overturning a government decision.

By being organized and prepared, you can help your lawyer understand your situation more quickly and give you the best legal advice moving forward.