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01 Aug, 2024 by Coco palm
Would not recommend. Very confrontational
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01 Aug, 2024 by Jack the buster
Unjust fees, i feel like I was told a lie
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01 Aug, 2024 by Savera team
Unfair. Questionable practice.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
And this guy needs improvement!!! He is extremely immature and very childish. He has no time management skills and felt no sense of urgency when representing us. Historically he has the reputation of a scam artist and as someone who is fundamentally untrustworthy.
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22 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
If you want your money and time to go down the drain with no results use this sorry excuse for an attorney..He will take your money without any documentation for his services.He will not prepare his clients because he could care less about their well-being..Fair enough warning,he is the worst!
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18 Apr, 2023 by Leo
I retained this “attorney” Timothy J Miller for a DUI misdemeanor and he ended up scamming me. After reading all the other reviews for him, I actually felt better because apparently he is a serial scammer, and I am not the only one.
I retained Tim Miller on 9/30/2021, and my case is still open with absolutely no progress. It has been;
-566 DAYS
-1YR 6MO 20DAYs
-29 court hearings since I retained him…
Out of those 29 hearings, he failed to appear 6 of them.
When I retained Mr Miller I expected some level of professionalism and integrity. I paid his attorney fees in full and almost immediately. I retained him, so I would receive effective counseling while seeking the justice and the truth. I have been claiming my innocence since day 1.
After I paid him, Mr Miller stopped answering my calls, responding to my emails, or appearing to court hearings. More than a dozen times, I asked him to send me all the discovery and all the evidence in this case. Hearing after hearing and excuse after excuse, I was not able to make him move his finger, let alone schedule an appointment to go over the evidence. He simply did not care…after getting paid, his only goal became to pressure and scare me enough, so I would agree to make a plea deal with the DA, or go to the Veteran’s Court. He never believed on my innocence, nor he cared enough or put any effort to challenge anything in the case…He kept pushing me to make a deal and get rid of my case, so he can move onto other trusting and unsuspecting clients to make a quick and easy buck.
After my countless emails and phone calls, his assistant finally sent me couple pages of documents on 4/3/2023. That is 1YR 6MO and 5DAYs after I retained him. But the funny part is, those documents still does not include the breathalyzer test, dash cam records, and other important evidence…Long story short, he didn’t have those important records, because he just doesn’t have it in him to do the job, are care enough to look for… He simply did not do a thing!
He had 29 different chances and 566 days to make it right to me and at least try to help me, he did nothing…
A stranger on the street, or even DA would be more helpful to me than him, and that’s such a shame…
2 days after his assistant sending me those documents, on 4/5/2023, Mr Miller filed a motion to withdraw as a counsel…This is unbelievable. He asked me on couple occasions;
“Why don’t you fire me?”
And I replied:
“I can’t afford to fire you, why don’t you just do your job? It’s way easier.”
If this was any other profession, let’s say a carpenter or a plumber… and if that person had 566 days to do the job, and still refused to do it, that would be called a SCAM, and they would probably be charged criminally. Tim Miller is the smoothest scammer I have ever encountered. You will lose your money to him, and he is going to waste years of your life if you’re not fortunate enough to fire him later on… Please stay away.
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17 Feb, 2025 by J bec
This is an excellent firm. I can personally say they worked extremely hard and they really cared about my case. I highly recommend these lawyers A++
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22 Nov, 2024 by Amber heinselman
They provide great legal services here. Mr. Vanderlaan and his team are professional, caring and knowledgeable. They responded promptly and handled every step of this process perfectly! I was very overwhelmed at the beginning of my issue and that was quickly put to ease after my first appointment. I also saved money choosing Mr. Vanderlaan. In fact most people in my situation never receive anything due to the costs involved but because of this office I have been made whole again. Grateful! A perfect way to feel right before the holiday's!
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19 Nov, 2024 by E z
I would never recommend this office to anyone. Horrible.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Mihai echim
I highly recommend Attorney John Gihon. He guided me through my case with exceptional expertise and professionalism. John's clear communication and dedication made a challenging situation much easier to navigate. I am incredibly grateful for his support and advice. Thank you, John, for your outstanding service!
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31 Dec, 2023 by Felipe g
We met John Gihon and his team after being turned down by several attorneys, and also hiring a couple with no success. John was extremely thorough and gave us all the different escenarios with my brothers immigration case. John was as able to dismiss his case. I also referred a friend with removal proceedings and John managed her case as well, needless to say she got her case dropped as well. Excellent service, excellent results. Always thankful with John.
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12 Dec, 2023 by Souha zouari
They didnt call me back and they said yes they did and they have my wrong phone number bad experience.
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25 Aug, 2016 by Joshua
Mrs. Harrell was the perfect attorney for me and my family needs. She was always very professional and honest. Hiring Mrs. Harrell was one of the best choices I ever made. Please, if you are in need, look no further. Mrs. Harrell has a heart for here profession. Thank you!
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09 Jul, 2016 by Debbie
Clarissa, (Yes, I feel comfortable calling her by her first name!) She is very professional and so easy to talk to. She explains things in terms average people understand, and if you don't she will explain it to you. It has been over 6 years since Clarissa helped me through a very tough time - my divorce. I truly can not say enough good things about this lady. She is honest and trustworthy and extremely knowledgeable. I have recommended her to friends and will continue to do so.
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07 Oct, 2015 by Barbara
The most distressing time in my life, facing divorce I had been given advice of a long time friend, call Clarissa Harrell. I had interviewed a few other attorneys at the time but the comfort level was not there. With my first consult at her office, I was informed what I would need to provide, and from that minute forward, I knew I was in good hands, a person looking out for my best interest. I was contacted by her office as the divorce moved forward and arrangements were made for a mediation process which brought closure as pain free as one would have hoped for. Although I new in my heart if the outcome had not been acceptable, she would have been with me in the court room to settle the differences. Clarrisa was truly a huge support and to this day I am thankful for people like her!
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30 Jun, 2024 by Pamella
I was very dissatisfied after I paid her fully for what she charged. It was the first time I had to seek legal advise because I was being sued. She was recommended by my son’s lawyer who was also being sued for the same property, so I assumed she had all information. She called me and I told her I was servicing my car I did not know that was my consultation. I tried to make an appointment with her twice and she refused. On three seperate occasions she threaten to withdraw from the case and eventually did without my knowledge. She also dropped my countersuit without my knowledge . I paid her $4500 a flat rate up to trial. The only thing she did was write two correspondents to the court on my behalf. Personally I think she is unethical and untrustworthy based on the experience I had.
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25 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Atty Payne has been my attorney on a civil matter for a couple of years. I received a judgment in my case and paid Atty Payne an additional $950.00 to determine if the defendants wages could be garnered. I also asked for assistance in filing liens. After being unable to contact her for 3 or 4 months, I made several phone calls to her office but none of my phone calls have returned. All I want now is my $950.00 returned so that I can have another attorney complete the actions that I asked her to complete.
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19 Sep, 2018 by Martin law group,pl
Attorney, Payne assisted our Attorney as co-counsel and did nothing less than excellent work. We most certainly think Ms. Payne played a large part in this win and we appreciate her expertise. Thank you Tahirah!
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20 Nov, 2022 by Fatih kekevi
He Had done nothing but took my money. He did not even bother to attend some court events. He had me convicted of the crimes I haven't even commited. I have been convicted and served time in jail for false misdemeanor charges. He was very unprofessional and unresponsive. Beware!
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12 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
I am so very appreciative for the time and attention given to me by Attorney Mark Youngblood.
His patience and care made this a much less terrifying experience. I was completely naive and Mark always took the time to thoroughly answer my questions. He clearly presented options as they unfolded and let my specific needs shape the way in which he handled the case. Ultimately, his advice, patience, experience, and hard work, opened favorable possibilities.
I am so extremely pleased, with the outcome of my case. I feel most fortunate is my lawyer.
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03 Sep, 2013 by Gavin
Marc is highly skilled at balancing pragmatic approaches while still vigorously pursuing aggressive outcomes. I have worked with many more expensive attorneys, but never one so focused on his clients' best outcome. His is not a style of bluster and posturing. He knew our case thoroughly and waited patiently for opportune moments to champion his well conceived strategies. Too notch - in every way. I felt like he was in my corner from beginning to end. He seemed to feel the ups and inevitable downs (almost) as keenly as I did. Youngblood is a huge asset for anyone contending with the Florida legal system.
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12 Feb, 2025 by Anonymous
Mr. Glugover handled a very complicated custody and relocation case for my brother and won the case. He is a lawyer that is realistic and honest about the laws. He was very responsive, kind and straight forward. In cases like this one, you have to have faith in the lawyer, and trust in the process. Mr Glugover with his substantial experience in child custody laws, adoption laws, relocation laws and DCF laws, he is the guy who knows what he is doing, realistic about the outcomes and will get the job done. Thank you Mr. Glugover! My whole family is grateful for the work, time and effort you put into this nearly 2-year case. We couldn't be happier with the results. And we truly appreciate you.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
We will be forever grateful for the guidance, patience, and persistence Jon and his team have provided as we navigate a tricky custody situation.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Jon to help with a misdemeanor case for my son. He was very flexible and easy to work with. He responded to my communication requests quickly. He showed empathy and was reassuring. We were very happy with the outcome of the case and would highly recommend him. He's well connected in the area and can get your case handled quickly.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Jean geffrard
19 Jun, 2024 by Rachel anderson
19 Jun, 2024 by Flavia anderson
21 Oct, 2024 by Jean geffrard
19 Jun, 2024 by Rachel anderson
19 Jun, 2024 by Flavia anderson
17 Feb, 2025 by Rene fornari
23 Nov, 2024 by David pedraza bello
17 Nov, 2023 by Ernani moschin
02 Sep, 2023 by Roscoe jones
Meanest bunch of shysters you'll ever meet.
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10 Sep, 2022 by Ryan braswell
27 Aug, 2021 by Carrie cline
05 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
“Rick” charged a ridiculous fee to represent me and a family member against some criminal charges. He spun tales of dismissal and “getting this thing handled” and really made his enormous bill seem justified.
On the day of the arrangement as the other lawyers entered court there were many who looked professional and then rick entered...he was late, fat, poorly dressed and looked disheveled. He hurried over and called us outside the court room and hurriedly explained that he had secured plea deals for both cases that left me thinking I would have been better of with a public defender. He bullied us into accepting them thus reducing his workload from actual case work to nothing in a split second but keeping the full amount he charged (in excess of $10,000 for basically 2 hours work).
This guy isnt worth anyones time and i hope others are smart enough to see he is a not worth hiring.
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28 May, 2019 by Av
I'll be using his services again when needed in the future.
I was very satisfied with his savvy experience in handling my legal matters.
He's extremely knowledgeable in his profession and knew exactly what to do to give me the best outcome for my cases.
Aside from his professionalism and efficiency he is very transparent, friendly, sincere and was so to my situation. I'm very grateful that I was able to obtain him for his services.
Highly Recommended
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22 Aug, 2014 by Sandra
Mr. Leal represented my son in a criminal matter that was resolved in the best possible way. My son completed his program and the charges were dropped. Mr. Leal explained everything to myself and my son along the way and we really were impressed by his compassion and professionalism. I've dealt with other attorneys who treat you like just another part of the process but Mr. Leal really cares. He worked hard to get the outcome we did. Highly recommend him.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Gonzalez
Mr. James w Chandler is exceptional in criminal defense cases. Very straightforward about the possible outcomes and always seemed to be one step ahead in planning our defense strategy. Mr. James w Chandler is courteous and prompt in his responses, which made the whole stressful process much more bearable. I am profoundly grateful for his services. His proactive communication and ability to handle complex legal scenarios effectively have been a significant asset. Highly recommended attorney.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Frank
Overcharges definitely definitely rip you off, he says he charges 315 an hour, but then charge me 500 an hour is a manipulator bad person
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17 Dec, 2024 by James mcgruder
I definitely appreciate everything this team is doing for our Veterans. Please continue the outstanding work you are doing for service men and women.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Charles schalk
This firm keeps sending unsolicited harassing communications on "video game" addiction when I have not played a video game for 15 years. Wish I could give them a zero or negative star
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12 Nov, 2024 by Norman fuhrman
3m settlement. They handled it all. Took yrs which is understandable however they took 50% of payout. To all the OIF/OEF vets, read the fine print. Better than nothing at the end of the day
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29 Oct, 2024 by Brian
Toni was my attorney and was able to move things through at a record pace. I couldn't possibly ask for anything more. She is a bulldog in court and a sweetheart when talking with me about my case. Thank you Toni!! I will never forget you
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24 Jul, 2023 by Millie
I have emailed,her several times, I have left her voice mails x3 and absolutely not a call or email back.
However when she send you an email total different story she wants immediate gratification.
They need a zero stars button for this attorney.
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05 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Toni took my case when the other highly "recommended" attorneys had thrown in the towel, and saved the day. I will always be grateful. Thanks Toni
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29 Apr, 2017 by George
Christina Merritt provided an exceptonal amount of professionalism and expertise while handling my case which clearly demonstrates her willingness to go above and beyond to get the job done and an end result everyone is satisfied with.
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29 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Heard she was an awful attorney AFTER I hired her. Did nothing to help me. Find someone who will keep in touch with you and not string you along or lie to you or ignore you. DO NOT HIRE HER.
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21 Oct, 2014 by Frank
Mrs. Merritt was on time and early, walked me through every process I had to go through and even after the last court date she kept in touch with me to make sure that I was getting all my probation things done. By far the best attorney in Naples and Fort Myers.
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01 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Barlow for my child support and custody case. The outcome was even better than expected! I got everything I asked for and Mr. Barlow was very professional throughout the case. His rates were more than reasonable and I would hire him again in a heartbeat!
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05 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Rick to work on my divorce case. I didn't get the work and results that I would expect at his rates. After continued arguments about billing and him losing every plea in my case, I fired him. He then filed a lien against me in Martin County and I was forced to pay his ridicules bill in full. Never again, as there are to many other local attorneys that are more cost effective.. All I can say is watch out...
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31 Dec, 2013 by Stuart
When it first became necessary to hire an attorney, Mr. Barlow made himself available to me on a Sunday afternoon in his office to facilitate the needs of my schedule. He was also preparing for a trial starting the next day and I thought that his willingness to meet with me on Sunday when he was preparing for another matter was especially client oriented and showed a sincere interest in helping me retain counsel as soon as possible to relieve some of the burden from my shoulders.
Mr. Barlow listened to my entire story and all of the facts and came up with a strategy which was virtually the same as I had anticipated being an attorney myself, though a different type of attorney. Anticipating a battle lasting well into 2014, I was pleasantly surprised when we were able to get to a final hearing in mid December and everything was over.
I found Mr. Barlow be thoughtful, thorough, and compassionate. He and his paralegal make a good team for anyone who needs competent and honest representation. I would refer friends and clients who might require services in his practice areas without hesitation.
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05 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
She is rude and contradicts herself constantly. She's not a criminal attorney by any means!
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02 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I contacted Ms Stevins from a referral from another attorney regarding an ongoing issue I am having. Her receptionist was very nice. Ms Stevins, however, could not take the time to listen to my legal issue and basically acted as if I was wasting her time.
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25 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Takes time to explain everything. Makes sure that paperwork is done on time and keeps you posted on how your case is progressing. Office is very friendly and comfortable.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Ms Cannon failed to appear to court which sent an innocent father to jail without bond for 30 days. He complied the entire duration and she did not take any accountability, just listed off excuses and legal jargon as to why she failed to appear on his behalf.
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28 Oct, 2017 by Candice
Ms. Celine was wonderful. She helped my family by spending countless hours mediating and resolving my husbands paternity and custody case. Ms. Celine advised us of the pros and cons and worked with us from beginning to end. She was very aggressive in helping us to finally gain custody of my husbands son. My husband was able to gain full custody of his son and receive child support modification after the mother would not cooperate fairly. This heavy burden on our hearts was liften once Ms. Celine stepped in. My step son that was never able to see his father is now bonding and making memories like never before. Ms. Celine didn't settle or waver in our demands. We are grateful for her hard work.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Hector favian perez
05 Oct, 2023 by Constance williams
22 Aug, 2023 by Myra williams
20 Aug, 2024 by Lee jacobs
Wayne is the best!!! Thank you for all your help. Highly recommended.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Nick postolaki
Very professional
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01 Mar, 2022 by Jeff hennore
Horrible! My mother has been working with this man for years, but he keeps putting her aside by not responding to her calls nor taking her seriously. He readily reaches out to her with a new idea to solve her issues but always for a fee. I’m not one to leave negative reviews, but I strongly discourage anyone from working with him.
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27 Jun, 2024 by April garcia
Paid her 2500 over 15 months ago for a simple divorce. Went to her office and we had to fill out all the paperwork ourselves. Paid $400 for it to be filed and still nothing. She will not return my calls or text messages. DO NOT HIRE HER! SHE IS A RIP OFF
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21 May, 2024 by Pat quiroz
As I read the reviews, it seems Ms. Boldt just takes everyone's money and doesn't do anything to help with child custody. My family hired to assist with a divorce and child custody, I understand this was during COVID however as the rest of you she never returned calls. And in the end at the hearing we ended up without our child and having to pay child support. She could not explain what happened.
I agree she is a crook, took our money and did nothing.
She should be debarred. DO NOT HIRE! this attorney.
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02 May, 2024 by Jason dunivent rachael starr
20 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Attorney Kevin is Knowledgeable and Caring. He let me know what I needed to help plead my case. I cooperated with him in a timely manner so he can help me as much as he can. He returned my calls and messages in a timely manner which shows me just how much he cares. I will hire him again and again if I need to.
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01 Aug, 2019 by Chuck flantroy
I am very satisfied with my lawyer, Kevin Cobbin. He is very well informed, connected and smart. Most of all - he cares! I first heard about him 10 years ago through another prominent Attorney here in town. At the time, I wanted legal representation from someone that I could relate to and they had to be a FIGHTER. I will attest Mr. Cobbin is both.
Over the years, I've gotten to know lots of Attorneys in town and no one else, in my opinion, has the level commitment and dedication to his clients that Kevin has. Yes, I would strongly recommend to anyone in need of solid legal advice or counsel.
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29 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired him for my husband. My husband had to tell him what to ask for. He barely return calls it seems like having a public defender. He only calls you a day or two before court you go in blind sided. I don't see the way he do people he can tolerate to look at his self in the mirror and it doesn't bother him. I don't recommend him he only cares about his freedom.
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08 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney to represent me in a criminal case. He consistently failed to respond to multiple emails and phone messages. When confronted about his behavior, he then lied and falsified documents in an effort to cover up his behavior. I would not hire him again for anything!
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02 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I paid Clay Atkinson to defend my daughter and her husband. She made repeated calls to his office and so did I to try to get information and rarely received a return call. We always spoke to an answering machine and left messages during business hours. He would promise to call after a hearing and it would never happen. He received faulty information regarding a dui in Texas that never happened and rather than call my son in law he confronted him 15 minutes before a hearing and had to do a continuance because of that information. Very poor communication from Clay and no response from calls. We would not recommend Atkinson Law firm to anyone. Once you sign on you are pretty much on your own
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19 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
I retained Mr. Clay Adkinson to handle a serious Felony charge. He took the time to review my case and actually get to know me and what my circumstances were. I always felt as though he actually cared about what happened to me. He was incredibly knowledgeable and worked had for me. The results were outstanding, and better than I had hoped. I have no doubt my outcome was because of Clay Adkinson being my lawyer. Without him I truly feel I would have had a bad outcome and ended up in prison/jail and a convicted felon. Great guy, and great lawyer.
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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:
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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.
