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28 Jan, 2022 by Samantha scheifele
My experience was wonderful. The time and money was well spent, and I highly recommend The Villalba Firm to anyone needing thoughtful, thorough help!
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28 Jan, 2022 by Ron harper
Shannon is an essential part of my business. When I started, I was using contracts that I had crafted from a template, and one from another attorney who didn't understand my industry. Shannon not only wrote the best contract for my business, but she also explained each part of the document and what it does so I completely understand how to protect my business. I'm fortunate to have such a trusted advisor on my team.
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28 Jan, 2022 by Emily rae
Shannon Villalba offers a holistic legal & business lens on my business. She has been able to offer support and advice in ways that I didn't know I needed. I feel that she is very trustworthy and kind, and that makes me feel comfortable working with her and essentially trusting her with these pieces that I'm glad I don't have to worry about. I couldn't do it alone and it's important to have people on your team that you can trust! When I found Shannon, I asked Facebook friends for "a lawyer with heart" and that is exactly what Shannon is - strong, can defend & support in powerful ways, but also is connected to her heart.
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19 Feb, 2025 by Sara king
I had a very positive experience with Lawyer Urling. Jim was calm, honest, fair, and a great communicator.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Raphael kunkel
I definitely recommend Jim Urling to everyone! He did a outstanding job to help me on my court case.
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17 Jan, 2025 by R. citak
Tom, Jim, and Suzanne are a dynamic team that work overtime to provide the top-notch professional care and resources of a larger firm with the personalized attention to detail that you won’t find elsewhere in their practice areas. Here, each client receives the benefit of their time, experience, and insight. While their expertise spans a range of practice areas, I can personally attest to their representation in a personal injury. Having Jim and Tom in our corner made all the difference in confronting the at-fault party. Tom and Jim were able to obtain about seven times the amount we could have ever hoped for on our own. They are tremendously skilled in local and federal matters. Their team is not only expert litigators, but principled human beings, which is a rarity.
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28 Jan, 2022 by Samantha scheifele
My experience was wonderful. The time and money was well spent, and I highly recommend The Villalba Firm to anyone needing thoughtful, thorough help!
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28 Jan, 2022 by Ron harper
Shannon is an essential part of my business. When I started, I was using contracts that I had crafted from a template, and one from another attorney who didn't understand my industry. Shannon not only wrote the best contract for my business, but she also explained each part of the document and what it does so I completely understand how to protect my business. I'm fortunate to have such a trusted advisor on my team.
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28 Jan, 2022 by Emily rae
Shannon Villalba offers a holistic legal & business lens on my business. She has been able to offer support and advice in ways that I didn't know I needed. I feel that she is very trustworthy and kind, and that makes me feel comfortable working with her and essentially trusting her with these pieces that I'm glad I don't have to worry about. I couldn't do it alone and it's important to have people on your team that you can trust! When I found Shannon, I asked Facebook friends for "a lawyer with heart" and that is exactly what Shannon is - strong, can defend & support in powerful ways, but also is connected to her heart.
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03 Dec, 2021 by Glenn
Called 3 other lawyers before finding Bill who showed no concern or interest. I left Bill a message and he got back with me even after business hours. Showed concern and empathy and he even went above and beyond and had my issue taken care of within 24hrs. Answered all my questions and phone calls promptly. Real genuine guy. Thanks again
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13 Sep, 2021 by Alexander
I had the privilege of having Mr. Bill Gallagher, as well as his colleague Kara Blackney, investigate a serious criminal legal matter, on my behalf during the preliminary pre-Indictment stages, with their expertise they were prepared to represent me, come what may. The matter was quashed by the grand jury, but their support, legal knowledge and preparedness comforted me along the way. When one could be facing loss of liberty, these attorneys understand this severity and commit themselves with all their resolve to working for their client's legal defense.
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23 Apr, 2021 by Tim
Mr. Gallagher did a great job with my case. He was very thorough, understanding, and supportive. Whenever I needed anything he was just a phone call away.
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10 Mar, 2018 by Kendra
My husband and I have worked with several attorneys over the years. Mike is thorough and to the point. He has given us sound advice. We decided to hire him to defend my husband against his ex-wife.
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12 Jun, 2017 by Erin
Michael was very personable and we were able to develop a great rapport. He is well educated and was able to thoroughly answer the endless amount of questions I presented to him. I had two particular cases in which I worked with Michael each one yielding great results thanks to his hard work. I highly recommend him as an attorney, and if the situation arises I will hire him again.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Bobby hammond
Mezher law handled some legal matters for me and did a tremendous job with the case. I've asked for help on other matters and they've been willing. I'd hire again if need be.
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21 Apr, 2024 by Luke libbee
Christine and the entire staff were very helpful and professional throughout the process
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20 Apr, 2024 by Sarah mccall
I highly recommend Kathleen and Christine Mezher as an attorney They go beyond to help you
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25 Feb, 2025 by Alpha wolf express
25 Feb, 2025 by Willi lempert
Darrin is fantastic. Capable, kind, and honest. Highly recommended.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Marcus callahan
My fiancé and I originally contacted an attorney in Cincinnati to help with our K1 Visa process, however he seemed a bit…busy? Anyway, after the initial phone conversation and odd feeling, we were lucky enough to find Neil Fleischer.
Neil was there EVERY step of the way, walking us through every aspect with respect, politeness, and a TRUE sense of caring! My (now wife) and I are truly blessed to have worked with him and were married earlier this year.
I can’t speak highly enough of Neil and his team. He always responded right away, was there for a phone call if I was confused about anything, and is a great human being. We are now working with him for my wife’s change of status paperwork.
You won’t find a more kind, caring, and knowledgeable attorney for immigration! I guarantee it! I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend him and his team, and my wife and I are forever in his debt. Thank you so much!!!!
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25 Feb, 2025 by Alpha wolf express
25 Feb, 2025 by Willi lempert
Darrin is fantastic. Capable, kind, and honest. Highly recommended.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Marcus callahan
My fiancé and I originally contacted an attorney in Cincinnati to help with our K1 Visa process, however he seemed a bit…busy? Anyway, after the initial phone conversation and odd feeling, we were lucky enough to find Neil Fleischer.
Neil was there EVERY step of the way, walking us through every aspect with respect, politeness, and a TRUE sense of caring! My (now wife) and I are truly blessed to have worked with him and were married earlier this year.
I can’t speak highly enough of Neil and his team. He always responded right away, was there for a phone call if I was confused about anything, and is a great human being. We are now working with him for my wife’s change of status paperwork.
You won’t find a more kind, caring, and knowledgeable attorney for immigration! I guarantee it! I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend him and his team, and my wife and I are forever in his debt. Thank you so much!!!!
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25 Feb, 2025 by Alpha wolf express
25 Feb, 2025 by Willi lempert
Darrin is fantastic. Capable, kind, and honest. Highly recommended.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Marcus callahan
My fiancé and I originally contacted an attorney in Cincinnati to help with our K1 Visa process, however he seemed a bit…busy? Anyway, after the initial phone conversation and odd feeling, we were lucky enough to find Neil Fleischer.
Neil was there EVERY step of the way, walking us through every aspect with respect, politeness, and a TRUE sense of caring! My (now wife) and I are truly blessed to have worked with him and were married earlier this year.
I can’t speak highly enough of Neil and his team. He always responded right away, was there for a phone call if I was confused about anything, and is a great human being. We are now working with him for my wife’s change of status paperwork.
You won’t find a more kind, caring, and knowledgeable attorney for immigration! I guarantee it! I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend him and his team, and my wife and I are forever in his debt. Thank you so much!!!!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Elizabeth g
Attorney Nick Klingensmith is a consummate professional. He’s addressed my questions along the way with clarity and honesty working tirelessly to assist in my legal matters. Nick and the rest of the folks I’ve spoken to at the firm are responsive and honest. Extremely respectful, they’ve treated me like family. I do not hesitate to recommend TK Law!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Cristi mcinerney
Mr. Trelevan is a wonderful lawyer! I am very pleased with the way he handled my case he gets straight to the point and got things done! I would recommend him to anyone in need of a lawyer. I had been fighting my case for 9 months until I was able to get assigned Mr. Trelevan and he got my case ended in 3 months and it only took that long because of them making my court dates so far apart or he would have got it ended sooner. He’s honest and doesn’t sugarcoat nothing. I’m proud to say he was my lawyer because my case would still be going on if it wasn’t for him. He is definitely godsent!
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09 Oct, 2024 by White wineaux63
Nick responded to my needs IMMEDIATELY and really did a great job with my cases! I was petrified and he explained everything and helped put my mind at ease. I would recommend him in a 💓 HEARTBEAT!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Elizabeth g
Attorney Nick Klingensmith is a consummate professional. He’s addressed my questions along the way with clarity and honesty working tirelessly to assist in my legal matters. Nick and the rest of the folks I’ve spoken to at the firm are responsive and honest. Extremely respectful, they’ve treated me like family. I do not hesitate to recommend TK Law!
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15 Oct, 2024 by Sean
I highly recommend Kara she is fearless and wont backdown and fought for me when I was at my lowest.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Cristi mcinerney
Mr. Trelevan is a wonderful lawyer! I am very pleased with the way he handled my case he gets straight to the point and got things done! I would recommend him to anyone in need of a lawyer. I had been fighting my case for 9 months until I was able to get assigned Mr. Trelevan and he got my case ended in 3 months and it only took that long because of them making my court dates so far apart or he would have got it ended sooner. He’s honest and doesn’t sugarcoat nothing. I’m proud to say he was my lawyer because my case would still be going on if it wasn’t for him. He is definitely godsent!
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15 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
I worked with Tad on my case for a year! He would text me back weekend or not, super friendly. Explained the whole process of everything in a way I could understand what was really going on. I was accused of a crime I truly did not commit and he believed me. Unfortunately we could not prove a phone call conversion in trial we we settled for a plea. Went from 2 major felonies count 2 and a 3. Down to a misdemeanor 1, probation for 2 years that’s it. Great guy enjoyed working with him but hopefully I never see him again unless it’s a run in at the store.
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12 Nov, 2019 by Josh
I called Tad just days before my pre-trial hearing and he was nice enough to accommodate me into his busy schedule. He took my concerns very seriously and was very thorough in investigating all the details of my case. He was available at any time of the day when I had a question or concern. His law office is focused on trial, and not just pleading out. If you desire a plea bargain he will work to achieve the outcome you desire, but dont fear if you want to go to trial. He is dedicated and thorough and will work hard to achieve a positive outcome. My case was dismissed, but Tad a solid game plan, with motions for dismissal, and a trial plan if the case was not dismissed prior to trial. I would recommend him to anyone in need of a well qualified trial attorney.
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02 Jul, 2019 by Dan
Tad was recommended by a friend and was above and beyond what I expected. After my first call we met immidiatly and Tad took action gathering information. Tad was very informative and easy to deal with. Tad very clearly broke down my case, possible outcomes and different strategies to approach with. End result was a case dismissal for me and one very happy client. Only lawyer I will ever recommend. 10/10
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08 Nov, 2019 by Lealie
Shelia stepped in to defend our daughter during a theft case. Shelia was diligent, confident and very assuring to us that she was presenting the best defense as we could and her warm personality and genuine smile was very reassuring. I would definitely use Shelia again if ever needed
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07 Nov, 2019 by Sandra
Mrs. Dean was diligent in the pursuit of justice. The first lawyer we hired left us in a mess and she turned the case backwards against false accusers. The result was full custody for my daughter.
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09 May, 2018 by Minnisa
Sheila Dean was exceptional to work with to get my divorce completed in a timely manner. There were some legal requirements that I would not have understood without her guidance. She was able to fully explain all of my options for proceeding and she helped me to make the best decisions for accomplishing my goals within a reasonable time frame. I am grateful for her skill and knowledge, as well, as her continued communication throughout the process. I will be contacting her for all of my future legal matters.
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07 Oct, 2015 by Shannon
I found myself terrified when having escaped an abusive relationship my child's father sued me for full custody making a plethora of false accusations. I met with several attorneys that all required a revolving retainer and other financial hurdles until finding Hugh. He worked with me patiently on a financial set up and has had continuous victories against the multiple lawyers from designer firms the man suing me has employed. He is encouraging, honest and efficient. He responds to phone calls, texts and emails and has been an absolute life saver in a very challenging time. I have every confidence that Hugh is a superior lawyer and I am lucky to have discovered his services.
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01 Oct, 2015 by Benjamin
Hugh's wide-range of experiences helped me in many ways. He's extremely fair and thoughtful and is brutally honest, which I appreciate. He knows the law and will look for the best outcome for his clients. He'll look at all sides of an argument and provide both sides of a prospective decision, explaining in depth what it means for his client. He's a researcher, and will determine the best path for success. Hugh rectified an unfortunate disillusion settlement regarding child support for me, I have no doubt that his expertise will prove invaluable for you, as well. I would highly recommend Hugh McCloskey to anyone seeking legal representation!
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01 Oct, 2015 by Sandi
We hired Mr. McCloskey to defend our 16 year old grandson. Mr. McCloskey took this to terms with his knowledge and determination, not just to help our grandson, but to fight the system to keep juveniles out of the adult system. He won't just take "NO" as an answer as he continues to file petitions with higher courts to right this. He continues to stay in touch and keep us informed of exactly where we stand with the system. So proud to have him as an attorney and would definitely recommend him to anyone who wants someone who will be there til the end as he has and continues to be for us!
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16 Jun, 2015 by Michael
Stephen assisted our design business in dealing with a exit contract negotiation. By listening, evaluating and discussing our issues with a understanding of contracts, negotiations and small business, Stephen was able to assist and help direct us through an otherwise confusing and difficult process.
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03 Jun, 2015 by Anthony
steve defended myself and 3 family members in the last five years he has done a great job for myself , me daughter, my brother, and my grandson I can call on him any hour of the day and he responds quickly. I can get advise at anytime and I appteciate his efforts.he has done a great job for us. my grandson had 8 felonies mi brother had 3 felonies my daughter had 3 traffic cases and I had a traffic case
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23 Mar, 2016 by Stephen
Lisa was honest, fair and helped me tremendously with my case.. I felt she represented my very well with my felony case.. Would highly recommend her to anyone for representation.
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12 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
Lisa is the best
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09 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr heekin was amazing he helped me so much i was facing 8 years in jail for a gun charge, ans he got my 3 years intense probation. He is so good i will definitely recommend him to anyone that needs help
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04 Aug, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Heekin listened and addressed my concerns. He was friendly and told me what to expect. My charges were dismissed with no fines or costs. If I need an attorney again, which I hope not, I will use him again and recommend him to my friends.
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21 Nov, 2014 by Lindsey
She is very quick to respond if not there as soon as you need anything. She is guiding us through every peice of our battle. She really is a big help and I don't know how we would be getting through this without her!
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07 May, 2016 by Andy
To get divorced from a woman who is the poster child for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), I had to go through four attorneys, each of which were scarcely prepared for the incredibly hard task of dealing with BPD and overall insanity from the other side, even though I warned them going in. Having to change attorneys because they don't have the will to fight is wildly expensive, and eats months and years of your precious time. If you have a divorce or family law issue, especially if it's high conflict, and/or your ex has BPD, you absolutely need to have someone working for you that not only understands how to handle it, but will treat the other side with a no-nonsense, zero-tolerance approach. Chris is simply the best attorney I've ever had to deal with the craziness and instability of my ex and her attorney, that always enables her on every issue.
I hired Chris to help me free my 14 year-old daughter from her mother. Chris took my case and ran with it. She filed documents, stayed on top of every issue, and provided lightning fast return calls and emails. The level of service she provided caused me to ask her if I was her only client, that's the way it felt from the moment I brought her onboard.
If you've ever retained an attorney for any matter, you know that returning calls, and being proactive are the two biggest complaints people have with their attorneys. Again, I had to enlist four attorneys to go up against my crazy ex, and only the last one got me the coveted divorce, but he was a spent, shell of a man at the end. I cannot say enough about the quality of service, and her dogged determination to see my case through. If you're wondering, yes, we were successful in getting my daughter freed, and she will be living with me in a few weeks. I sincerely wish I had Chris from the very start. I could have saved tens of thousands of dollars, and not lost all that sleep. She did such a great job for me and my daughter, and there's no way I could be happier. Hire her, and you'll see what I mean.
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02 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
When Celia was working as a public defender, she was appointed to me in a custody case versus the state with my son. Throughout my case Celia was always compassionate, kind, and made things easy to understand. She gave me advice, but always told me ultimately the choices we made in the case were up to me. She was willing to speak with me for any length of time I needed to understand what would be happening at each hearing and what my options were. Even though I definitely was not her only client, she really made me feel like I was. Ultimately, I regained custody of my child, due in large part to her counsel and defense. I will ALWAYS recommend Celia to anyone who needs a defense lawyer.
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31 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
I was in a difficult family situation and I called a number of family/estate attorneys to see if they could help me. After making a number of calls, I was disappointed because each attorney kept telling me there was little they could do to help. Fortunately, when I called Karen she immediately informed me that I had a number of different ways to resolve the situation. In addition to this, Karen answered emails quickly, professionally, and it was clear that her goal was to make the situation work out in my favor. I certainly will be going back to Karen if additional issues arise.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Redina
Eric was very kind and helpful handling my divorce.He always took the time to answer any questions I had. I have recommended him to others and I will continue to.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Mona m
16 Apr, 2024 by Gavin hall
Excellent and professional team for your codification requirements.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Deidre wilson
The law firm of Beth Silverman & Associates is amazing. I had the pleasure of being represented by attorney Marisa Apel and she was unbelievable. Her knowledge accomplished the impossible for me. Not only was she my advocate and confidant, she was also my support system throughout this process. Thanks again, Marisa.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Jason hagenschneider
James did a great job for us, and our situation. If you want a top notch lawyer he is definitely a good one to call! I highly recommend his expertise. Thanks again James
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30 Aug, 2024 by Craig anthony
Great attorney. Helped me every step of the way. He also Answered all my questions I had. Got me out of trouble and got rid of all the jail time.
10/10 recommend.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Stevie battle
I used Mr. Bogen to assist me in having my felony removed. He made the process extremely easy for me! He was very easy to deal with and extremely polite. Definitely recommend him to anyone!
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05 Apr, 2023 by Mo hamed
Excellent Attorney and affordable, very easy to reach.
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18 Feb, 2021 by Michael
Michael Haas is a very professional, experienced lawyer who easily helped me win my son’s shared custody back from the ex-wife two times in 4 years with hard evidence and great witnesses. Working very well together with me for both wins at a good, reasonable cost for them both.
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02 Nov, 2020 by Alfredo zuniga-carrillo
Wouldn’t recommend to anyone looking for a good attorney
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29 Jan, 2017 by Austin
I had a very damning traffic ticket that seemed almost impossible to ameliorate, yet Soumuajit Dutta provided me the opportunity to do so through some extraodinary negotiations with the magistrates. After finishing an educational safe driving course, I was able to walk away without even paying a fine for the ticket! He always kept in touch and was easy to contact if needed. If you need legal advice he's the guy you're looking for.
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29 Dec, 2016 by Kyle
Mr Dutta got my drug paralphenalia charge reduced to disorderly conduct. No probation. No liscense suspension. Also accepted payment arrangment. Would gladely hire again
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04 Apr, 2016 by Joshua
Mr Dutta was extremely informative and knew exactly how to prepare me for my trial. He made me feel confident in my case and had what turned out to be perfect advice. I highly recommend Mr. Dutta and will absolutely call him in the future if needed.
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25 Feb, 2025 by Alpha wolf express
25 Feb, 2025 by Willi lempert
Darrin is fantastic. Capable, kind, and honest. Highly recommended.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Marcus callahan
My fiancé and I originally contacted an attorney in Cincinnati to help with our K1 Visa process, however he seemed a bit…busy? Anyway, after the initial phone conversation and odd feeling, we were lucky enough to find Neil Fleischer.
Neil was there EVERY step of the way, walking us through every aspect with respect, politeness, and a TRUE sense of caring! My (now wife) and I are truly blessed to have worked with him and were married earlier this year.
I can’t speak highly enough of Neil and his team. He always responded right away, was there for a phone call if I was confused about anything, and is a great human being. We are now working with him for my wife’s change of status paperwork.
You won’t find a more kind, caring, and knowledgeable attorney for immigration! I guarantee it! I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend him and his team, and my wife and I are forever in his debt. Thank you so much!!!!
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07 Sep, 2022 by Cecily
She is not only not timely but quite disorganized and frequently appears confused or mistaken IN COURT. I had to contact her several times the day before court dates to get an update. I never seemed to be a priority. She emailed both the court and the opposing attorney frequently with the wrong case number or wrong format. Basic stuff. I was trying to collect medical bills from my ex for my child. Should have been an easy case. I not only will collect nothing of the thousands I was owed, but am now in a worse position for future medical bills than my original order. Would have been better off not even trying. Spent thousands. Talk about buyer's remorse. Don't waste your money.
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28 Jan, 2022 by Samantha scheifele
My experience was wonderful. The time and money was well spent, and I highly recommend The Villalba Firm to anyone needing thoughtful, thorough help!
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28 Jan, 2022 by Ron harper
Shannon is an essential part of my business. When I started, I was using contracts that I had crafted from a template, and one from another attorney who didn't understand my industry. Shannon not only wrote the best contract for my business, but she also explained each part of the document and what it does so I completely understand how to protect my business. I'm fortunate to have such a trusted advisor on my team.
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18 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
She explains each aspect about the case and she listens. Her advice will lead you to a positive result.
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04 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Fair-minded, but tough. Credible with the AA community based on service.
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03 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
While considering what course of action to take regarding a potential legal situation, I consulted with Elisa Murphy. She researched the situation and offered excellent advice.
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07 Jan, 2011 by Yogeshchachare
She is so fast and accurate, and will always reply to your emails and phone calls soon. I have ben working with several lawyers, but never find one which can match her standards. just perfect.
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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:
-
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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.
