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Christopher Gene Clark, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Clarksville, TN with 20 reviews
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39,62
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
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08 Mar, 2022 by Jes
Very satisfied with Chris in helping my brother win. He did an amazing job. Chris will always be family to us we are very blessed. Highly recommend him!! He really knows his stuff. Great personality, very respectful.
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16 Aug, 2020 by Frank
I would absolutely recommend Chris. The charges I was dealing with were serious and I could have faced serious jail or prison time. Chris got me an outcome that is better than I could have imagined. One case was dismissed. The other had judgment deferred and will be dismissed after completing probation. I'm happy to be moving forward with my life and am so glad my family hired Chris.
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07 Jul, 2020 by Jesse
I'm honored  to give this review for Mr. Chris Clark. Hoping this reaches out to not only civilian but military community as well. I was then referred to Mr. Clark because of the magnitude of  of my case, so if you are looking at  a serious charge you need a trial attorney.  Mr. Clark has been on both sides, he handled my case  professionally and he guided me through every step along the way, with ultimately all my charges being dropped. As a  decorated and honorably discharged Army soldier, I got to keep my life intact with all my benefits and honorable status. So in closing to civilian and Military communities, this is a no-brainer, call Mr Clark. He's in the top percentile of the state for a reason. J.R.
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Erin Stidham Poland, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN with 9 reviews
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39,28
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
9 Reviews
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12 Mar, 2024 by Tanya
Mrs. Poland has represented my daughter twice and both times the outcome was just as she said. She is an awesome attorney and even more amazing person, which is why I think that makes her such an good attorney. She listens to her clients and has there best interest at heart. She is easy to talk to. She represented my daughter like she was hers. I'd recommend her 10 times over!
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14 Sep, 2023 by Nita
Erin Poland handled a child custody case for us. She did an amazing job! We were initially very anxious about the case, but she was always calm, reassuring, encouraging, and well prepared for court. She was patient with us and answered all our questions. She cares about her clients and really advocates for children! We highly recommend her!!!
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15 Aug, 2023 by Tasha
I went into this with an attorney from a different city and then Ms Poland was recommended to me. To be honest, I had spent so many years terrified, this had gone on so long, I was scared to call her office. But so glad that I did. Ms Poland was amazing, had compassion and empathy, she listened to understand, explained everything, went above and beyond to see this through. I took a deep breath and trusted that she would handle everything, and she absolutely did that and more for us. We have a little more peace now and can continue healing. Im truly grateful for her.
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Taylor Robinson Dahl, experienced Business, Child Custody attorney in Clarksville, TN with 4 reviews
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39,12
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
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13 Nov, 2020 by Joy
Where do I begin! Taylor Dahl is an absolute rockstar and a wonderful human being. She came highly recommended two years ago and I am thankful she took time from her busy schedule to fit me in. I have used her services for child custody, emancipation, adoption, and divorce and have been extremely satisfied every single time. She has fought for my daughters as if they were her own and has won every case with ease. Don’t let her calm demeanor fool you, she is a shark in court and always has her client’s best interest in mind.
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31 Aug, 2020 by Nick
While facing an extremely prejudicial command bias while on Active Duty, Taylor was not only an immense help with an extremely uncooperative local civilian investigation, but with also correcting an error with my military discharge paperwork. In both instances, Taylor's commitment to my sense of justice, my future and correcting an error (per Army Regulations, AR 635-8 and AR 601-210) have done everything towards, what I believe standing up for a Lower Enlisted Soldier. If facing either civilian or military investigation, criminal charges or divorce, Taylor Dahl would be the first person I'd call in Clarksville.
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29 Aug, 2020 by Deborah
I could not have had any better help .. most people know very little about the law ( ME! ) Taylor and Katlyn was always there for me They always helped me to understand the law I would recommend them 100% !!! I am very great full for all she did for me
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Alexa Marie Spata, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Clarksville, TN with 3 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.
39,09
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Jan, 2020 by David
I spoke with Alexa on the phone regarding legal issue with an apartment complex. She was very helpful and provided me with a clear line of site to resolve my issue. I would HIGHLY recommend her for any legal service that you need help with. She will go above and beyond.
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15 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
She was Amazing spot on . She replied to my emails she was very on top of everything
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02 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Alexa after my juvenile daughter got into some trouble with the law. Alexa was great!! She was very knowledgeable about the whole process we were about to go thru. She met with us before our court date and explained what our day in court would entail ( since I had never been in trouble before I had no idea what to expect for my daughter ). Alexa assured me everything was going to be ok. On my daughters court date Alexa met us before we went into the courthouse and went over everything with us again and assured us that “ it was going to be ok”. Alexa represented my daughter great in court and it turned out very well !!! I would definitely hire Alexa again!!!!!
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Wayne David Hibbeler, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN 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.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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19 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Hibbeler handled my divorce for me. He was always letting me know any kind of updates on my case gave me copies of letters from my ex-husbands attorney etc. He was always with me in court and walked me through every process he was very detailed about everything and made sure I understood every process/step. Always returned my phone calls etc. All around hes a great attorney. Thank you Mr. Hibbeler and thank you to your staff as well very friendly.
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John David Carver, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN 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.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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11 Jan, 2020 by Cq
The lawyer I had used in the past was busy, and I needed a lawyer on short notice. I called around and talked to a few good lawyers in the area but I decided on Mr. Carver. He helped me mediate my case and I am pleased with his performance. Should I need a lawyer again, I would be happy to use him again.
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Keaton William Murphy, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN 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.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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08 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I consulted with Mr Murphy and he was extremely knowledgeable and actively listened the entire consultation. He welcomed feedback and showed compassion and care. I would recommend Mr. Murphy if you are looking for someone with a vast knowledge and empathy. He presented himself with someone twice his age and experience.
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Jenna Lea Foreman, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Clarksville, TN 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.
39,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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04 Nov, 2015 by De'mario
I would like to say that Jenna Foreman is by far the best experience I have had with an attorney. I had previously had an attorney on my case who done absolutely nothing but give me and my family the run around while I was trying to get my son from an abusive situation. I could hardly ever contact him and had to have people call from different numbers for him to pick up. 4 months and he done nothing but take almost 3k. I was recommended to Kennedy law firm and I at this point had given up faith in the legal system. However this is where things changed immediately. Jenna Foreman was my attorney and this was the best example of a professional if you have never seen one. She always and I mean always returned my calls in a reasonable time. Jenna stayed in contact Via email or phone. I knew every phase of the process and Jenna Foreman got started around thanksgiving and my son was home with his family by Christmas.Special thank you to Jenna Foreman. I will tell anyone and everyone, if you need an attorney I sincerely recommend Jenna Foreman.
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Courtney Anne Worrall, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN with 60 reviews
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38,36
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4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
60 Reviews
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16 Dec, 2024 by Odell carver
These guys are awesome!! Some people for pretending to be who they weren't by phone text so on and so forth. I contacted Poland and Poland they expose the people for the scammers they were. If someone presents you and uncomfortable approach claiming to be investors, attorneys, whatever and you think it doesn't sound right? 99.9% of the times that means it's not right contact Poland and Poland. If these guys are legit they will know and if they're scammers they will know. After all they're updated daily on all the new scams. I would recommend them to all my friends.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Derrick steele
Mr. Powell was quick to return my call for legal advice with dealing with a eviction.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Brian
I had many cases very big stack! Will Poland got me the best deal. He was completely the most understanding lawyer I have ever met. He will tell you how it is. And what you need. And let me tell you. When Mr. Poland tells you time is your friend you most better believe it. TIME IS YOUR FRIEND! make sure you give him a call if you need a awesome respectful lawyer!!!!!! He is the best. Poland & Poland attorneys at law will lead you in the right direction.
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Caroline Milam Wright, experienced Appeals, Criminal Defense attorney in Clarksville, TN with 216 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.
33,83
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
216 Reviews
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19 Dec, 2024 by Steven finley
Google Maps
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11 Dec, 2024 by Han han
Thanks attorney Jennifer Scribner, she's very attentive, detail and very easy to communicate with to resolve the case. Im very pleased with her hard working effort toward my case..I am glad I found her online from the beginning with 5 stars...I'm glad I make the right decision...I would recommend Mrs. Jennifer Scribner, once again thank you much
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25 Oct, 2024 by Ronnie hoover
Started out with Matthew Armstrong. My very first Mediation he was not at Mediation to give me guidance on anything. When trying to contact him, he was never available. At my last mediation I got transfered over to Justin and lets just say it was no different. Went to court, he left the court room to "go get a drink". While he was out of the court room the judge called for my case. I was there, opposing counsel was there but my Lawyer was not. I got charged an extra hour due to him "going to get a drink". Got that somewhat resolved. I asked about my record and getting it esponged. He said he would check on that. To this day the charges that I had on my record, that I paid for to have esponged off my record are still there. Havent heard a word from the lawyer on what is going on with it and its been over 6 months since Ive paid to have the charges esponged. They do not communicate with their clients at all.
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Cleveland Carr Turner, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN with 11 reviews
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29,79
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4.3/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.2
10 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Apr, 2023 by David clark
Great Sushi!
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21 Nov, 2022 by Isabella bragg
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21 Apr, 2022 by Betsy1 wright
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Jeffrey Sean Grimes, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Clarksville, TN with 4 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.
24,09
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4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
4 Reviews
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26 Mar, 2024 by Kathy
Jef represented my daughter and throughout the duration of the case, he was always there. There wasn’t a moment we felt that we were just a number or overlooked. The outcome was better than we ever hoped for, and that is solely due to Jeff’s hard work and great reputation. Tim, his partner was also incredible and helpful. Not a better firm in the world.
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20 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Non responsive , irresponsible time management , etc. hired this gentleman and paid $1,000 before ever meeting him. After being rescheduled 3 times due to him “ being busy /sick/ out of the office I knew then and there he wouldn’t be able to properly represent me. While waiting in the waiting room , On our well awaited first meeting , I was groped on by another client of his whom was around the age of 60-70. I didn’t press charges since the other ladies in office were so sweet about removing me from the area he was in. Properly settled and appreciated. I wish I could say the same for my experience with the attorney I hired. I was rushed in my first meeting. I believe it lasted 3 mins before being abruptly told “ to reschedule since he was busy for another court date “ after that any phone calls in regard to my case and or emails were never answered and I never saw him again. My case was dropped by him about 8 days prior to my docket call ...If you’re looking for an attorney that is on top of his game , responsive , there for you , and has great time management , then he’s not going to be the right person for you. I had a simple harassment case and now have another attorney. If I had seen these reviews prior to hiring I would’ve went with someone else. Mr. Clemmons was very responsible in picking up his pieces in dropping my case last minute and offered wonderful alternative routes as well as was responsive in a very timely manner. If you need to hire anyone from this firm I’d suggest clemmons , sensing , but not grimes. I just don’t think I got what I wished which was to be represented wonderfully.
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08 Nov, 2017 by Elizabeth
Jeff, did an amazing job, representing me. He immediately just into action once, we told him everything that happened, and help me get my baby back the same day. If it wasn’t for him, I’d have to wait, but with his quick thinking, we got him back. I️ would definitely recommend, and have him represent me again. THANK YOU SO MUCH!
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Deborah Suiter Evans, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN with 3 reviews
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13,13
star star star star star
2.3/5
Avvo
2.3
3 Reviews
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24 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
If i was able to give her no stars I would. VERY EVIL lady and does no works. Makes excuses of why she couldn't get things done. She worked on my case for 9 mths. All she cares about is getting paid and will find the most expensive way to charge you. I had to get another lawyer.. DO NOT HIRE THIS MONSTER
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04 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I used Ms. Evans for my divorce, because one of my friends used her (for an uncontested divorce) and said it was quick and easy. My divorce was contested, and I was prepared to be in it for the long haul. However, i wasn't prepared for the astronomical fees charged by Ms. Evans, and how she ate up nearly $10k in a year and got ZERO results. By the time my divorce went to trial, I could no longer afford her services. After I dropped her, she somehow worked the books to reflect that I owed $2000 more dollars, and she didn't do anything. There was no mediation, and all the money was eaten up by her paralegals constantly calling me and filling out arbitrary paperwork for me, OVER AND OVER. None of it was necessary or mattered in the divorce. None of it was requested by the judge. Once I dropped her as my attorney, she went back and canceled all my court dates, and when I complained, she had them reset, and then CHARGED ME AGAIN. Do not go here unless you're prepared to pay. She is vicious, and will fight, but she will also fight you for your arm, leg, and first born child to pay her fees, and she'll make sure to double charge and pad the bill.
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23 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
This attorney was recommended by a friend, she was the "ROARING LIONESS" in court. She went WAY above and beyond the call of duty to make my situation turn out in my favor. Her drive is unmatched, she was a STAND out in a room of more than 7 (court appointed) attorneys in the room. She was the ONLY one that wld stand up to DCS. They rest of them wanted to follow "normal" procedures for DCS. Contact me if you have ANY questions..
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Robert Allan Thompson, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN with 1 reviews
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7,17
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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15 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Don't bother. A complete waste of time and money. He is very unmotivated and acts as if you are "bothering" him when you call to follow up on your case. He was not passionate, compassionate, or aggressive and made it very clear that he was happy to take my money but when it was time to work he did the minimum. He did not keep me informed and I often had to call him multiple times and leave multiple messages. Lesson learned.
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Colleen Ann Hyder, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Chason Thomas Smith, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Anthony Wayne Kirby Jr., experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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William Joseph Sweeten, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Elizabeth Dozier Rankin, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Amanda Leigh Cocanougher, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Adrian Richard Bohnenberger, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Anthony W. Kirby, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN 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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Jennifer Renee Steiert, experienced Adoption, Juvenile Law attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Terria D. Blunt, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN 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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Eric Scott Lehman, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Clarksville, TN 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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Nick Thomas Tooley Jr., experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN 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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Michael Tyler Howard, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Clarksville, TN 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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Brittani Bright Dial, experienced Juvenile Law, Litigation attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
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0,00
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0.0/5
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Timothy J. Gudmundson, experienced Adoption, Appeals attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
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0,00
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0.0/5
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Nicole Latrice Martin, experienced Adoption, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
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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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