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Calistratos Spiros Stafilatos, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Baltimore, MD with 238 reviews
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44,85
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
218 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Jan, 2025 by Michael a segal sr
Thanks Mr Preller. I had a very good experience with you as far as my court case was concerned and he tried to keep me abreast of the situation and charges this is a very good law firm
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03 Dec, 2024 by Charles hernandez
I can’t express how great of a lawyer Mr PRELLER is but what I would say is if your feel like your back is against the wall and you need a chance he is the guy. Very polite and knows his job best will tell you the right choice and still let you choose the path you want to take. This men is a Hero he saved me from conviction after I made myself guilty… Who else other then Patrick PRELLER the number 1 Defense attorney.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Anthony
Thanks for helping me out. I would recommend you to anyone who needs help. You did a great job.
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Staci L. Pipkin, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Baltimore, MD with 65 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
42,97
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4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
10 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
55 Reviews
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08 Dec, 2024 by Troy turnipseed
They r the best 👌
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05 Dec, 2024 by Artist evans
This man represented me in 2015 and did an awesome job. He kept his promise and kept me from going to jail. Mr Rodney, I’m forever grateful for you and your service.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Anthony okoko
"I want to express my deepest gratitude to Jeremy Elderidge for his exceptional representation in my recent case. I was facing a charge of driving on a suspended license, but Jeremy's thorough preparation, keen legal insights, and persuasive arguments in court led to a not guilty verdict. His dedication, responsiveness, and compassion throughout the process made a difficult situation much more manageable. I wholeheartedly recommend Jeremy to anyone seeking top-notch legal representation."
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Shawn Richard Larson, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Baltimore, MD with 45 reviews
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42,71
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4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
43 Reviews
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27 Oct, 2024 by Fatima ahmed
Mr Michael is an excellent Lawyer. He is a great listener and very detailed oriented. he was very attentive to all the details of my case and was able to guide me make excellent decisions. he is a great human, and very positive. his interpersonal skills are outstanding, and his staff is very friendly. Mr Michael proves to me day by day that he is an emotionally intelligent lawyer and his advice is sincere and honest and is really caring about the best thing for me as a Human. He has high values and one of the best Lawyers I have ever met. Thank you Mr Michael, I'm so grateful to you. Fatima
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24 Oct, 2024 by Mohammed mehboob
Very experienced & competent attorney. Has saved me a tremendous amount of aggravation with moving violations. He gets results! Highly recommend him!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Karen r h jackson
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Mark B Martin, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Baltimore, MD with 5 reviews
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39,15
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
5 Reviews
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30 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
We were very fortunate to have Mark Martin represent our family for the needs of our son. We are grateful for the placement he received, the help he is receiving and the difference it will make in his future. Thank you to Mark Martin and his team for your faith and talents to get us there.
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09 Jun, 2016 by Paul
From the first day we started working with Mark he was completely honest and candid about what he could or couldn't do. He also had an air about him that showed he was confident in his ability and presented his record of success but also failures. You have to be confident to be able to do this. He gave us an overview of the process to have our child placed in a private academic site. This was great because before working with Mark we had no idea of what to expect. Setting expectations was something that he does extremely well. I went to several meetings with Mark and he was always listening and asking questions which shows he was trying to get a command of his facts before speaking. There was no grandstanding involved in his approach. When he spoke it was for a purpose. When it was time for him to speak he held the room and he was direct. And when he needed to he was AGGRESSIVE, precise and fought for my son in a way that I never could have. Mark also has relationships that extended beyond our case that actually helped him to understand all parties involved and strengthen our argument. I never felt like he didn't have control of the situation. He also worked very well with the all of the therapists that were to be involved with our case. All of our therapists said they had heard of Mark and that he was good. If we had any questions, he made time to call, text, email or use any other method just to keep me calm. This made a difference. He also helped me understand there are certain things I should and shouldn't say about our son when asked by the opposing attorney. I should also point out Mark was never late and he always stayed afterwards to have frank discussions with me. In the end my son got everything he needed and more. Mark made sure everything was in writing and properly managed. He even set up a meeting that I couldn't get with the private school. I would have to rate mark as being outstanding.
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12 Feb, 2016 by Courtney
My family hired Mr. Martin to represent our son in a case against the Baltimore County School system. Our son recently moved from a public school to a private school because of his learning disabilities. Although BCPS was aware of his issues, they denied him services for 2 years which resulted in our son falling two years behind in his education. After consulting with Mark about our case, we were more than confident that we had found the right attorney for this type of law suit. Mark came highly recommended to us and his past work on cases like ours only made us feel that we were definitely going in the right direction. Mark and his staff were extremely professional and efficient. Within months we were on our way to Mediation. Because of Mark, we settled at mediation and were reimbursed by Baltimore County Schools for our sons tuition. I don't think we would have had the outcome we did unless we had Mr. Martin and his office on our side. We could not ask for a better outcome or a better attorney.
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David J. Walsh-Little, experienced Criminal Defense, Drug Crime attorney in Baltimore, MD with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
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11 Dec, 2023 by Krystal simmons
David is a great lawyer to work with. He's very attentive and on top of things. He cares about his clients and is very knowledgeable. Thank you David
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Amy Michele Helbig, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Baltimore, MD with 71 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,67
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
71 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Oct, 2024 by Michelle kent
I am very happy I am lost for words I am very grateful that’s I was able to use this lawyer by the name of David Grossman and his secretary Mrs Donna to represent doing this matter that happened to me back in May . Mr. David and his team keep their word. They were with me with me every step of the way. Once again y'all need to get him to represent y'all he is amazing. I will be using him again . Hopefully no time soon. THANK YALL FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART
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16 Aug, 2024 by Neka smith
We used David de real years back. He is the real deal. Best Bankruptcy Lawyer in Baltimore!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Joyce williams
They were very professional and was with me step by step until the end. Any problems I had they helped me with it. Highly recommend them.
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Janee A. Fountain, experienced Consumer Protection, Criminal Defense attorney in Baltimore, MD with 71 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,67
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
71 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Oct, 2024 by Michelle kent
I am very happy I am lost for words I am very grateful that’s I was able to use this lawyer by the name of David Grossman and his secretary Mrs Donna to represent doing this matter that happened to me back in May . Mr. David and his team keep their word. They were with me with me every step of the way. Once again y'all need to get him to represent y'all he is amazing. I will be using him again . Hopefully no time soon. THANK YALL FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART
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16 Aug, 2024 by Neka smith
We used David de real years back. He is the real deal. Best Bankruptcy Lawyer in Baltimore!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Joyce williams
They were very professional and was with me step by step until the end. Any problems I had they helped me with it. Highly recommend them.
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Karinna Marissa Rossi, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Baltimore, MD with 71 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,67
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
71 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Oct, 2024 by Michelle kent
I am very happy I am lost for words I am very grateful that’s I was able to use this lawyer by the name of David Grossman and his secretary Mrs Donna to represent doing this matter that happened to me back in May . Mr. David and his team keep their word. They were with me with me every step of the way. Once again y'all need to get him to represent y'all he is amazing. I will be using him again . Hopefully no time soon. THANK YALL FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART
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16 Aug, 2024 by Neka smith
We used David de real years back. He is the real deal. Best Bankruptcy Lawyer in Baltimore!
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star star star star star
25 Jul, 2024 by Joyce williams
They were very professional and was with me step by step until the end. Any problems I had they helped me with it. Highly recommend them.
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Pilar Rodarte, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Baltimore, MD with 71 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,67
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
71 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Oct, 2024 by Michelle kent
I am very happy I am lost for words I am very grateful that’s I was able to use this lawyer by the name of David Grossman and his secretary Mrs Donna to represent doing this matter that happened to me back in May . Mr. David and his team keep their word. They were with me with me every step of the way. Once again y'all need to get him to represent y'all he is amazing. I will be using him again . Hopefully no time soon. THANK YALL FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART
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star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Neka smith
We used David de real years back. He is the real deal. Best Bankruptcy Lawyer in Baltimore!
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star star star star star
25 Jul, 2024 by Joyce williams
They were very professional and was with me step by step until the end. Any problems I had they helped me with it. Highly recommend them.
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Janee Acadia Thames, experienced Consumer Protection, Criminal Defense attorney in Baltimore, MD with 71 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,67
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
71 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Oct, 2024 by Michelle kent
I am very happy I am lost for words I am very grateful that’s I was able to use this lawyer by the name of David Grossman and his secretary Mrs Donna to represent doing this matter that happened to me back in May . Mr. David and his team keep their word. They were with me with me every step of the way. Once again y'all need to get him to represent y'all he is amazing. I will be using him again . Hopefully no time soon. THANK YALL FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART
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star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Neka smith
We used David de real years back. He is the real deal. Best Bankruptcy Lawyer in Baltimore!
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star star star star star
25 Jul, 2024 by Joyce williams
They were very professional and was with me step by step until the end. Any problems I had they helped me with it. Highly recommend them.
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Michael Joseph Tomko, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Baltimore, MD with 14 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,47
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.4
13 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2023 by Tania stevenson
Mr. Tomko fought for my husband and took his case immediately. He gave us reassurance and hope. He’s professional and knowledgeable. Thank you for your service!
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19 Jul, 2023 by Dalereka savage
He is, an amazing Lawyer; who, get's the Job done.
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23 Jun, 2023 by Tanita waters
I used Tomko for 2 cases on the Eastern Shore Kent County, MD and let me tell he did his thing. I'm going to give him 5 stars.
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Kristen M.K. Kalaria, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Baltimore, MD with 75 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,00
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
75 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Jan, 2025 by Margaret flores
My experience with Justin Lerche, Esq., over the last 2 ½ years has been outstanding. I came to Ashcraft & Gerel LLP, seeking a personal injury attorney with experience in these cases. I was impressed with Justin’s biography on the firm’s website. From the initial call with him, I felt confident in his talents to represent me after a car accident I endured on January 14, 2022, to the final settlement on December 5, 2024, achieving a favorable outcome. Throughout this exhaustive and stressful time, Justin handled my case with utmost professionalism, attention to detail, care, and effective communication, making a world of difference to me. His expertise and knowledge of personal injury law are to be commended. He always made me feel I was in great hands, reassuring me that everything would be okay from day one. He promptly answered all my questions on the case and offered solace to the emotional tears I experienced during our calls. I highly recommend Justin at Ashcraft & Gerel LLP to anyone seeking exceptional legal services and results in personal injury cases. I’m profoundly grateful and cannot thank Justin enough for his support, services, and personal injury expertise, which made this overwhelming process bearable. Laura Harmon, his Paralegal, was also courteous and prompt in her responses. Thank you both!
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08 Dec, 2024 by Sean foddrell
Ashcraft & Gerel, LLP recently assisted me after I was injured in a car accident. Mr.Lerche and Ms. Rizzo were extremely professional and communicative throughout the entire process. I appreciate their support and highly recommend their services.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Carolyn randel
Justin and Kable are very professional and did their best in getting my case resolved as well as seeing that I received the best offer. I highly recommend Ashcraft and Gerel.
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Hallie Wolfe Salmi, experienced Criminal Defense, Government attorney in Baltimore, MD with 65 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,05
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
65 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Jan, 2025 by Chell love
Terrible communication. Took my $500 and did nothing. Didn’t answer calls or emails. Office was filthy and unorganized. I would not recommend. It feels like a scam almost. Although I did meet him in person he’s unfortunately did nothing for me or my case what so ever. Especially when you’re looking for representation that reflects you. Praying for his company and professionalism.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Daniel carreon
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star star star star star
13 Nov, 2024 by Doxon u.s.
Terrible to work with. Does not answer texts or calls and promises to make amends on cases but doesn’t.
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Marc Lawrence Zayon, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Baltimore, MD with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,57
star star star star star
3.5/5
Avvo
3.5
2 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
My personal experience with this attorney is: he seldom returned my phone calls, after having me pay someone else for other services, that person requested additional fees ,however, services weren't rendered,Zayon's presentation in court was less than satisfactory,someone else was hired to handle the case. Marc threw us "UNDER THE BUS".
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30 Jan, 2020 by Donald
I cant say enough about Marc, he built a great team to help me in my darkest hour. That may sound dramatic but its how I feel. If you need a lawyer please take the time to speak with Marc or someone from his office.
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Donald Charles Wright, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Baltimore, MD with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2022 by Nikita
If you ever heard that his communication suck, PLEASE believe it. I paid this man $1500 to take my case and every time I went to court he either didn’t show up, tested positive for COVID the day before my court hearing, or he sent a replacement. He never follows up, you always have to chase him down and then he gets very passive aggressive when you start asking questions or he simply doesn’t respond back at all. His response to me was “We don’t sit around the office all day and call clients about their cases” All of this has led to postponements and the prosecutor isn’t happy at all, so she refused to schedule another date until she got all information she needed from Donald. As of October 11, 2022, the prosecutor still does not have what she needs in order to rule in my favor in this case (the purpose I hired him) even though I sent everything to him about 14 months ago. I’ve since requested a refund, and he blocked my phone number. I made a complaint to the bar association and will continue to escalate and even get another lawyer involved to collect my money from him.
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Angus William Derbyshire, experienced Consumer Protection, Family Law attorney in Baltimore, MD with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Jul, 2024 by Tyler
This man works with the pro bono center now for Maryland Legal Aid. He flat out failed me, and failed to call me back. I have attempted to call him 7 times over 45 days and nothing. I wouldn’t hire him if my life depended upon it.
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David L Addison, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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William Lawrence Welch III, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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David Robert Lisansky, experienced Family Law, Government attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
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0,00
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0.0/5
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Janet Ruth Hartge, experienced Appeals, Juvenile Law attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Katherine Smith Davis, experienced Appeals, Government attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Felicia A. Ciesla, experienced Appeals, Elder Law attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Robin Danielle Wherley, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Rhonda L. Edwards, experienced Business, Government attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Kaliope Parthemos, experienced Criminal Defense, Government attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Sonia Kumar, experienced Civil Rights, Consumer Protection attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Victoria Anne Kawecki, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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James Eldridge Ruffin, experienced Family Law, Government attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Kimberly Smalkin Barranco, experienced Consumer Protection, Criminal Defense attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Julie Ann Drake, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Baltimore, MD with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Juvenile Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A juvenile law lawyer specializes in legal issues involving minors, including those facing criminal charges, child welfare matters, or status offenses (like truancy or curfew violations). Juvenile law lawyers aim to protect the rights of minors and advocate for rehabilitation rather than punishment in criminal cases. They also help families navigate child custody, abuse, neglect cases, and other legal matters involving children.

If your child is facing criminal charges, or you are involved in a child welfare case, a juvenile law lawyer can help protect your child’s rights and work toward the most favorable outcome.

When Should I Hire a Juvenile Law Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a juvenile law lawyer in the following situations where minors are involved in legal matters:

  • Juvenile criminal charges: If your child is accused of a crime, such as theft, assault, or drug offenses, a juvenile lawyer can represent them in juvenile court, advocating for leniency and alternatives to detention.
  • Delinquency proceedings: A lawyer can help navigate delinquency charges, defending your child’s rights and seeking rehabilitative outcomes like counseling, probation, or diversion programs instead of incarceration.
  • Status offenses: If your child has committed a status offense, such as truancy, running away, or underage drinking, a lawyer can help you resolve these issues in juvenile court, often focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
  • School disciplinary issues: If your child is facing school suspensions, expulsions, or other disciplinary actions, a lawyer can help protect their educational rights and challenge any unfair or unlawful school policies.
  • Child protective services (CPS) investigations: If your family is being investigated by CPS for alleged abuse, neglect, or dependency, a lawyer can represent you and protect your child’s rights throughout the investigation.
  • Custody disputes: A lawyer can help in cases involving child custody or guardianship disputes, ensuring the child’s best interests are prioritized and advocating for the child’s rights.
  • Emancipation: If your child seeks legal emancipation from their parents or guardians, a lawyer can assist in navigating the legal process and help the child understand their rights and responsibilities.

Hiring a lawyer early in the legal process ensures that your child’s rights are protected and that the best possible outcomes are pursued.

What Does a Juvenile Law Lawyer Do?

A juvenile law lawyer provides various services to help minors and their families navigate the legal system. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Representing minors in court: A lawyer will represent your child in juvenile court, advocating for their rights and seeking rehabilitative outcomes rather than punitive measures.
  • Filing motions and legal paperwork: The lawyer handles all necessary legal filings, including petitions, responses, and motions to dismiss charges or suppress evidence.
  • Negotiating with prosecutors: In some cases, a lawyer can negotiate plea deals or diversion programs that prevent the child from having a permanent criminal record or serving time in detention.
  • Advising on rehabilitation programs: Juvenile law lawyers often focus on alternatives to incarceration, such as counseling, community service, or probation, helping minors avoid long-term legal consequences.
  • Handling CPS and child welfare cases: If your family is involved in a CPS investigation or child welfare case, the lawyer can advocate for your child’s safety and well-being, ensuring that their rights are upheld.
  • Defending minors against school discipline: A lawyer can help challenge unfair or excessive disciplinary actions taken by schools, ensuring that your child’s educational rights are protected.
  • Advising families on legal options: A lawyer will explain the juvenile legal process to families, offering advice on the best legal strategies and what to expect during the case.

How Are Juvenile Law Lawyers Paid?

Juvenile law lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the time involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rate: Many juvenile law lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Flat fee: For simpler cases, such as status offenses or school disciplinary hearings, a lawyer may charge a flat fee that covers all legal services related to the case.
  • Retainer: In more complex cases, such as defending against serious criminal charges or handling a long-term CPS investigation, a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment billed against as they work on the case.
  • Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some juvenile law lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or may provide pro bono (free) services for families who cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially in cases involving child welfare or delinquency.

Discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during your consultation to understand the total cost and payment options.

How Much Does a Juvenile Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a juvenile law lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the time involved. General cost estimates include:

  • Juvenile criminal cases: Legal fees for defending a minor in juvenile criminal cases can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the severity of the charges and whether the case goes to trial.
  • Status offenses: For cases involving minor offenses such as truancy or underage drinking, legal fees typically range from $1,500 to $5,000.
  • CPS or child welfare cases: Legal fees for representing families in CPS investigations or child welfare cases can range from $2,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
  • School disciplinary hearings: Legal fees for representing students in school-related issues may range from $1,000 to $3,500, depending on the legal work required.

Make sure to get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure you understand the full scope of fees and services.

Top Questions to Ask a Juvenile Law Lawyer

Before hiring a juvenile law lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your child’s case effectively. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with juvenile law cases?
    Make sure the lawyer has handled cases similar to yours, whether it’s juvenile delinquency, child custody, or CPS investigations.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer. Ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my child’s case?
    Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of the case, including potential challenges and likely outcomes.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Juvenile cases can vary in duration, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors might affect the timeline.
  5. Will you personally handle my child’s case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing the case and representing your child in court.
  6. What rights does my child have?
    Ask the lawyer to explain your child’s legal rights, including their rights during police questioning, school disciplinary actions, and court proceedings.

How to Check the Credibility of a Juvenile Law Lawyer

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

  • Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for juvenile law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in juvenile law and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate in juvenile cases.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on juvenile law matters.
  • Check for certifications or memberships: Look for memberships in organizations like the National Juvenile Defender Center (NJDC) or certifications in juvenile law, which can indicate a lawyer’s dedication to representing minors.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

  • Court documents: Bring any legal documents related to your child’s case, such as summons, complaints, or court orders.
  • School records: Provide any relevant school records, including disciplinary reports, attendance records, and communications from school officials.
  • CPS or investigation reports: If your case involves child welfare, bring any reports or documentation from CPS or other investigating agencies.
  • Timeline of events: Prepare a detailed timeline of events related to your child’s legal issue, including interactions with authorities or school officials.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the legal process, your child’s rights, and potential outcomes for the case.

Being well-prepared will help the lawyer assess your child’s situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your needs.

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