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02 Oct, 2021 by Carolyn
I have the extraordinary pleasure of having each one of these phenomenal individual attorneys take part in my case/s. Each one of them have went above and beyond their primary titles. I will not go into my ongoing case but I can absolutely tell you that before I had the privilege of having these Heaven Sent Angels brought into my life/case/s I had completely lost my faith in Attorneys. Every single individual in this firm has given me back hope, faith in our Attorneys and how how they will work for you. There is so very much I can say about the Alband Law Firm unfortunately there is nothing I can tell anyone about how unbelievably phenomenal this law firm is and how each individual go to their above and beyond compassion hard work dedication, and love of what they do. There truly are no words to express what they have done for my child and me. The only way you will ever know how Heaven sent these Angels are is to experience how far and beyond they will go for you. However unfortunate your situation or circumstances may be. The Number One in Attorney at Law. The Alband Law Firm. Thank you Ms. Luanne, Mr. Alband, Mr. Javier, Mr. Bill. Phenomenal does not even begin to describe this Law Firm.
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17 May, 2019 by Brooke
Navid has represented me twice. both times he was thorough and always on top of everything! No matter what your facing, he can always make something happen! He is also so easy to be honest with, as he is so understanding. And he is so good at hearing whatever fears you may have and making sure they don't happen! He is absolutely by far the best attorney I've ever had, and seeing other have bad ones to compare Navid and how great he was, with! He will jbe a lifelong attorney as well as friend! Thank you Navid!
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11 Apr, 2019 by Scott
I frantically was searching for a criminal defense attorney and having no idea where to start, I simply filled out a few web forms detailing my situation. Navid call first thing the very next morning! As many others who have reviewed Mr. Alband, I can certainly attest that the system is slow and Navid will tell you that upfront. However, he will also give you a honest look into possible scenarios for your case with the evidence and conversations that you provide him with. Luane is simply a huge part of what makes Navid's practice so comforting. She is able to quickly follow-up and takes great notes and relays concerns to Navid...she is truly a jewel. Thank you both!
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07 Jun, 2022 by Mark
Mr Carter handled our DWI case with the utmost professionalism and really cared about the outcome. He and his staff kept my son updated and on track for completing milestones and this was all during 20-21 debacle. Our family can’t thank him and his staff enough for helping us through it all.
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07 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I came to Mr. Carters office and he had me explain what happened, how we got here, and what’s next etc. He was able to keep me ahead of the ball on some situations and helped me to progress in the process with no hang ups. With his many years as a defense attorney, he has a heavy reputation and everyone knows him and he knows everyone. Lastly, the element I take away is that each visit he had some insightful wisdom and a lesson to be learned for what had been done.
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15 Apr, 2021 by Travis
Mr. Carter was referred to me from a good friend who I've known for a while and it was by far the best referral I could ever have gotten. Don fought for me as if he was my own father. He got me more than I would have ever expected. I've dealt with many lawyers in past and most of them were trash even after paying them good money. Don has been at this business a long time and it shows in the courtroom. He gets much respect from the judges and prosecutors and trust me that goes a long ways. If your in need of a good lawyer who will fight for you and is not all about money then look no further than Mr. Carter and his assistant Celia! I couldn't be more happy with the results.
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12 Sep, 2022 by Ashley a.
He was my court appointed lawyer after my first lawyer got dropped , and hands down the best lawyer iv came across.. Very good at was he does, I would very much recommend him to everyone.. Keep up the good work.. And I think you very much for the awesome work you did on my case .. forever thankful..
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23 Jun, 2017 by La'shadion
Steve Gebhardt represented me twice against the ARLINGTON Police Department who had violated my constitutional rights on multiple occasions during one incident. One trial ended in a mistrial while the other ended with an acquittal. Because of Mr. Gebhardt clearing my name, I am now a newly elected City Councilman. Thank you sir for all you do.
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22 Jun, 2017 by Diana
After an initial consultation with Steve Gebhardt, his review of evidence and recommendation. Mr. Geghardt was able to get an excellent resolution to my daughter's legal matter. Mr. Gebhardt was also timely in court appearances and took his time in explaining what was going on every step of the way.
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13 Dec, 2023 by Lea ann smith
Mr. Trent Marshall's law firm was very professional, kind and caring he really cares about his clients and their family. The office staff was on top of everything. I was pleased with all of his performances. My son made parole! We are very happy for the outcome. I would highly recommend Mr. Marshall.
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09 Dec, 2023 by Lynnette
After consulting a number of lawyers who left me with little hope about my Sweetheart receiving parole, I consulted with Trent Marshall. He sounded very professional, honest and real. He took the case and provided unfailing support and hope for us throughout the difficult prison experience. He is a stellar lawyer with all of the qualities one would want in a lawyer. He is also a very kind, compassionate human being. He got parole for my loved one! We will always be in debt to this brilliant, wonderful man.
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03 Sep, 2019 by Terersa
I called today on 8/3/19 looking to hire him to get potential blue warrant taken care of. He made a call to Parole Office and found out that they would not be filing Blue warrant after all.
What an honest lawyer! He could have taken our money and then told us " he had prevented the Blue warrant from happening" but he did not, he just called and let us know that there would not be a Blue Warrant after all.
We now will be able to get him out on a PR Bond! Thank you Trent! What a gem!
If you need a Parole Attorney hire Trent Marshall! He is honest and not just out to get your money!
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02 Dec, 2021 by Amy
I have used Trent’s services more than once with excellent outcomes every time. He is a no nonsense kind of Lawyer with making sure he does his due diligence to achieve the optimum outcome for his clients. I highly recommend him and his staff to help you through your tough time!
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12 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Excellent trial team and staff. Attorney Trent Loftin was wonderful and would highly recommend! Very pleased with the outcome of my case. He and his father are both former prosecutors. Was easily to get a hold of, and explained things in “down to earth” ways. Really appreciate the staff (Brenda and Stacey)- thank you again!
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03 Mar, 2018 by Drew
The staff and attorneys are amazing. The office is located directly across the street from the old court house. I believe both Trent Loftin and Jerry Loftin are former prosecutors. They took a no-nonsense attitude and helped get my case dismissed. Very appreciative to Trent and Jerry (and their staff Brenda and Stacey). Highly recommend.
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11 Mar, 2022 by Capth
Ashley and her team set a very high bar for service to her clients. It was my first time engaging with the justice system and Ashley was THE BEST person to guide me through a scary and unknown process. She never doubted my innocence and fought diligently to ensure that was communicated to the court and I was not negatively impacted by an overloaded court system.
She was always very responsive, patient with my many questions, kept me informed as to what was happening and when. Overall, very personable and quite easy to work with. She is a person of her word, as when she commits to doing something, she does it and does it with excellence. She has been a blessing to me and I’m sure to many others. I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND HER and am comfortable in saying that you can put your full trust in her. Thanks again to her and the team.
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16 Feb, 2022 by Brandon
Ashley went above and beyond for my fiancée and the legal issues she had! Ashley was easy to reach and stayed in contact with us throughout the process! Ashley was very knowledgeable in her field. I would Highly recommend her to anyone needing legal counsel!!!
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28 Oct, 2015 by Randy
Went to Texas to deal with a family emergency. Left with a possession charge. When I got home I researched attorneys in tarrent county. I found Mr. Newman on Google, after MANY calls to different attorneys. Brian was very professional and patient,assured me that this would pass. He handled the situation like he said he would. Thanks for help and protecting my future! Randy
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26 Sep, 2013 by Philip
Mr. Newman was an excellent help to my case. I had a possesion of marijuana case and was extremely pleased with the outcome of my case. I will recommend him in the future to anyone I know that has a need for a criminal justice attorney, and should I ever need his services again I will gladly contact him. He is a very straight forward and no nonsense individual and it was a pleasure being assisted by him.
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25 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
My family was facing a felony criminal matter and we had no success in retaining previous lawyers. I was referred to Attorney Brown by a co-worker and she immediately met with us and handled the matter with professionalism and I would refer someone to her if they needed quality legal services and advice.
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24 Oct, 2010 by Anonymous
I was referred to this attorney by a friend who also used her service. I called her on her cell phone and within 24 hours she responded and scheduled a face-to-face consultation. I was suprised that she would meet with me and not have a secretary or paralegal perform the consultation. I was pleased with her service and would highly recommend her service to anyone who needs an intelligent, dependable and tough lawyer.
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08 Jun, 2023 by Karen
This attorney did all and more of what he was meant to do. Grateful to him!
He got him time served. Thank you greatly. Very kind man.
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26 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Great lawyer my son got credit time served for the 3 days he was in jail and and had the felony reduced down to a misdemeanor with a plea of guilty on a case that he could have spent no less then two years in prison for but up to an maximum of 7 years that he could have been sentenced to that were based off of tampering with electrical lines and down to theft of services . I would definitely hire this man because he actually cares about his clients and it shows through the work he does to handle their cases.
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19 Aug, 2014 by Stormy
Pat is a very professional and informative man that does an honest representation of his clients. His trustworthy aura is very powerful and calming. I already have recommended him to others that need or might need legal representation. I'm proud to have him as my lawyer.
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28 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Lisa represented my son in his case, and she was amazing, caring, and went above and beyond to help. I would highly recommend her and the Varghese Summersett team!
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14 Feb, 2019 by Patty
I hired Ms. Hopkins to assist me with complex issues of a divorce, after two other local Ft. Worth attorneys had not been able to resolve issues and obtain a Final Decree for me after two years and tremendous fees. Ms. Hopkins (JaNeen) was very thorough, quick to assess and deal with the matters that needed to be addressed with opposing counsel and, obtained the outcome needed quickly for resolution in my favor! She is professional (yet caring to your situation), straight-forward, concise and diligent in obtaining the results needed - and mindful of the legal costs to you as her client!! I recommend Ms. Hopkins to anyone in need of an excellent family law attorney.
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17 Jun, 2015 by Alton
Myself, Wife, and Mother had Julia Mcentire prepare our wills. She was delightful to work with. We are now in need of an attorney to draft a document regarding a family owned property. We will be calling on her again to handle this matter.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Latoshia “miztoshj” jackson
"I highly recommend Alex and Adewumni Law Firm to anyone in need of an attorney who genuinely cares about your situation. He is kind, understanding, honest, and extremely knowledgeable. Alex is truly God-sent. Even though my case was not his typical one, he was still willing to assist me. He is an amazing person, and you will be very grateful to have him represent you. Thank you, Alex, and may God continue to bless you and your firm!"
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18 Jul, 2024 by Brittani williams
Tate law office has to be one of the best law offices there is. They’re so understanding and make you feel very comfortable. I love the fact that they get everything done in a timely fashion. If you ever get in a accident I highly recommend Tate Law office. Thanks again guys.
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22 May, 2024 by Bryan weir
We had an awesome experience with our case I was seriously injured as a passenger in a car wreck and they were great took excellent care of me and my family
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28 Aug, 2024 by Kenrick burns
Great people to work with if you’re in need of legal help. He was able to get my case dismissed. I would recommend Navid and his colleagues 10/10.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Comy si monicuta
We were very stressed for a while and Navid and Salwa took care of us and got all cases dismissed in different counties. We appreciate their help and recommend them. Also, Salwa speaks Spanish and that was helpful.
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10 Jul, 2024 by John knight
Very friendly and professional staff. All of my cases have been dismissed by the knowledgeable attorneys at this firm. Shout out to Ms. Salwa Hecht! She is the Legal Assistant there. She is always on point and courteous. Thank you to the Alband Law Firm
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22 Feb, 2024 by Ytm buddah
Hired Steven for my fiancé, was initially charged with a 3rd degree felony. She was very skeptical on who she wanted to to represent her in this legal fight. We found Steven and he was very helpful, answered all our questions, and never promised anything but the best outcome he can provide with the courts. Got her charge dropped down to a misdemeanor with only six months probation. Will definitely recommend Steven.Hands down one of the best lawyers I’ve ever dealt with definitely worth every penny. Thank you Steven from the bottoms of our hearts God sent lawyer.
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03 Jan, 2024 by Charles clark
I finally got in touch with him to see my discovery after 12 months. Only to see a bunch of people I never met before lying on me . Typical Tarrant county. He did get me probation 7 years better than prison. He is on time actually the most punctual lawyer I have dealt with to be completely honest.
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18 Dec, 2023 by Frank perry
24 Jun, 2024 by Mo chedda
Best criminal attorney in the DFW. She will fight to the death to make sure that you are satisfied as a client. You can tell that she actually loves what she does and it’s not just a job for her. She is extremely genuine and the way she builds report with her clients is unmatched. If you want a positive outcome regarding your case she is THE BEST option.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Andres samayoa
02 Jun, 2024 by Rachel miller
Virginia is an absolute boss. She has represented me a few times now and has always delivered. She has great connections with people inside the court and she always knows the best approach. When in trouble call Virginia Carter to save the day!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Tiffany rose
I had to acquire services with Dunham and Jones and my Attorney was Robert Hayden. Mr. Hayden was very thorough and explained everything in detail to me so that I could fully understand what my options were and how the court proceeding process worked. He fought on my behalf and made sure that I got the outcome that I wanted not what was best or easier for him and I liked that so much. I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone who needs legal assistance. I owed this law firm my life and I will forever be grateful to them.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Kayla jackson
William Clark has been a lifesaver for my husband and I. My husband had a serious felony case and we were able to get the resolution we wanted. When it was time for us to go back to the courts with a new request Dunham & Jones was my first call. William Clark has our utmost confidence and I recommend them to everyone! Thank y’all for all y’all do!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jerod ingle
Very impressed with Michael McBride and what he was able to do for my case. Thanks!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Phi dinh
I will start off by saying our case did get resolved, but this was also an easy slam dunk case that shouldn’t have cost this much.
We were trying to terminate the biological mother’s parental rights but she was charged with murder and plead to manslaughter and had been in prison for the last 2.5 years and looking at 8 more years and had not had contact with the 5 year old child for the last 3 years.
I initially was told this could all be resolved for $5k retainer and that’s why we hired Spencer. However, at the docket call the other side wanted to proceed with jury trial which no one expected. They had to scramble to get the case together as they admitted they hadn’t really looked at the case over the last 6 months for trial on a Monday. We were told he needed another 10k to go to trial. Well they prepped for trial (mostly the paralegal) and last minute on Friday right before the trial, the mother signed over her parental rights. 3-4 days of prep and not going to trial blew through $7k of our retainer in addition to the initial $5k we gave them?? We expected something like $5k but $7k? How much more would we have had to pay if we had gone to trial which the they thought would last 2 days?? Definitely look at the prices and sign something in writing before you hire them
The mother and her lawyer stalled and duped us and our lawyer into spending all this money and time for nothing and our lawyer did not anticipate any of this.
The law firm also acted like they were very busy with other cases. They took a few days to a week and sometimes it took a second email for them to respond to anything. I would say not the worst but not the best law firm given our experience. If I could go back I think I would’ve gone with another firm honestly.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Eric stephan
Spencer and his team is handling a strange case for me, my ex girlfriend is trying to take custody of son, even though we are not married just a ex girlfriend. Him and his team are on top of things at all times and it is going great. I would recommend him to anyone who needs a family law attorney. I will update next month when we go to court.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Brandon “b lark” larkin
I was in a recent custody battle and needed an attorney for representation. I went on Google and found the Nilsson’s Legal Group. Had a conversation with Mr. Spencer Nilsson and he assured me of plan of action for my hearing. Here I am 6 months later with custody of my 2 children and child support free. I would recommend them to anyone who needs legal assistance in their child support hearings. Spencer did what he said he was going to do and he kept his word! Thanks again to The Nilsson Legal Group for all your help!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Alisha r
Youngblood law had great reviews and located in my hometown.
I called them during a very difficult time!! When I called they gave me the peace of mind and the support that I needed during a very difficult divorce.
Thank you!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Kandy howard
The team has been professional and hard working for me. They have answered all my questions in a timely manner and have gone above and beyond my expectations!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Amy sawyer
I was searching for a family law attorney and made a number of phone calls to different offices. Youngblood Law responded right away and I was able to communicate my situation on a conference call. They were very helpful and honest. Communication has been great and we are completely in the know with any new information. They are very organized when it comes to payments and show a breakdown of how our money is being spent. They are friendly, yet professional and I trust them with helping us. I highly recommend Youngblood Law firm!!
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13 Jan, 2021 by April
YES to Stephanie Patten! If you’re seeing this, it’s probably because you’re looking for a criminal defense lawyer… whether to fight a charge or be cautious… don’t hesitate, and retain her! She is thorough, professional and will fight for you. She is prompt in getting back with you and even when you speak to her staff, they too, are terrific. These days you can never be too careful. If you find yourself in a sticky or uncomfortable situation, be prepared and have Stephanie on retainer - You have the right to an attorney, even if you do not currently have pending charges. She does this day in and day out - she knows her stuff, things that you won’t even think of. You won’t regret having Stephanie on your team!
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16 Mar, 2010 by Sean
Fantastic job on my case, kept in touch with me over a two year+ period while my case was pending. Would hire her again. Thanks!
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06 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Stephanie went above and beyond on the case for my son words can't express how much I personally appreciate all she has done. She was always responsive, trustworthy, knowledgable and information was always provided in a timely matter.
I will be forever grateful for all she has done for us.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Harmony schuerman
25 Jul, 2024 by Ricky flores
I've been through 3 lawyers this past year with my case and Mr. Davis was my 4th. I wish I had him from the start. I had violated my probation and Nick not only helped me but got my probation dismissed. I will definitely use Nick here on. Thank you Nick you are a bad M. F.!!
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12 Jun, 2024 by Misty taft
12 Apr, 2024 by Richard willis
Kirk and Mayra helped my granddaughter and I with our family matter. They were very good to us, always returned my phone calls and answered questions. We are forever grateful for the job they did for us! Highly recommend!
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04 Sep, 2020 by Daniel vazquez
I recommend The Claunch Law Firm for their good service, they helped me with my wife and son's immigration process from beginning to end, as well as helping me with making the appointment for the fingerprin and the appointment for the clinic and above all they treated me with a lot kindness I recommend The Claunch Law Firm for their services
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22 Aug, 2019 by Vanessa montoya
Beyond grateful with the team who helped my husband with his immigration process! A huge thank you to Mayra who always keeped us informed & helped us thru ever step of the process! Thank you so much!
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07 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
We had used Ms. Kern in the past for a work place issue. She was very informative as to where we stood in the matter legally. Gave us options in the advice along with her personal recommendation. We appreciated her prompt and informative response to the mutil-level questions we had. For those reasons is why we called her again when a family matter came up. We need quick answers/ legal advice on a pressing matter that had minors involved and made herself available for just that. We appreciated that she respected the urgency and made the effort to evaluate the case before deeming it as, "call you back later in the week" or "email me and i will return in by next week.". For us customer service is most important and she hits the mark!
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07 Mar, 2014 by Jennifer
I would absolutely recommend. Alexis to my family, friends, and to any one that is in need of legal services. My consultation with Mrs. Kern was knowledgeable about anything that I had concerns or was unaware of. I felt very pleased with Mrs. Kern's professionalism and concern to help my make the right decisions for my case. Mrs. Kern was able to work with me and financial situation and other legal fees. What I loved the most about the whole experience is that she actually listened and asked questions before she gave me her input. I have had other lawyers and usually resulted in quick short answers. and bad attitudes. Mrs. kern is worth every penny.
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25 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired MR. St. John to help me with my state case that turned federal. I'm not gonna liue, it was scary but Mr. St. John made me feel confident in his ability to help me, and he did just that. He got me probation with some community service. Mr. St. John saved my life, and I am so thankfull for that.
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23 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
He is very well known and respected in the judicial community. Communication wasn't the VERY best but was sufficient. He told me how things would play out. I was very nervous. He was 100% correct. My life has changed and I owe part of it to this man.
Thanks
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5.0
29 Reviews
4.0
36 Reviews
08 Oct, 2024 by Kevin key
They Get It!
We had some significant issues dealing with family law. Mary Hanna Pruett and her family were caring, attentive, and patient. They helped guide us through a difficult legal situation. Not only did they do a great job representing one of our family members, they were very supportive during the process! We are very grateful for Mary Hanna and her family for their skill and advice (both legal and personal)! We can highly recommend them when you are seeking help with family law issues.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Stephanie
Harmony is on top of her game. Fast at replying and fast at getting things taken care of. I highly recommend her.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Ricardo
She was great and she got me the best deal I could have gotten with what I was being charged for.
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07 Sep, 2024 by Jose fuentes
amazing service the attorney and his assistant were great people and they are dedicated to help out others.
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12 Mar, 2024 by Christian rosas
Love Mr. Brett !
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03 Dec, 2023 by Alesia d anderson
He doesn’t care about his clients and never returns calls.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Debbie sullivan
Bob Leonard and his staff are generous, kind hard working and ethical. They offer multiple ways to communicate with them and often do so 24/7 with prompt and thorough answers and advice. Divorce, Probate and Appellate Law are their specialties. I recommend them highly. If you need an attorney, look no further. You will be very pleased!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Lisa brower
Please make sure that you are aware that while I went through my divorce and custody of my children that had been abused by my ex-husband all this Law Firm was about the money. I did not get a satisfactory, Resolution the wife Sydney was all about the money they gobbled up every single scent. I was falsely promised certain transactions were going to be met in court. They never were. I did not get the child support that I was promised. I did not get total transparency with my bill every month and they had gross turnover with paralegals that my case was at a disadvantage due to the gross incompetence
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08 Jul, 2024 by Maureen duffey
Bob and Sydney Leonard worked tirelessly to protect the rights of my grown 25 year old autistic son. Legal guardianship was obtained by his father during my father’s illness and subsequent death. My son was then treated not as a ward but as a pawn/ prisoner and slowly lost all of his rights and privileges. He became a puppet in his father’s game. Guardianship is unique in the court system. Bob and Sydney were able to walk me through the painful process of gaining my rights to my precious son. I could have never imagined the amount of work, pain, cost, and time required to simply be with my son following a completely uneventful childhood and adolescents. I never imagined needing an attorney, but am so thankful for the Leonard’s when I did! I’m happy to say that my son is back in my and my families life and we are once again a happy and blessed family! If you need a tough attorney who will fight for you.. this is your group!
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12 Oct, 2022 by Maria miranda
First time I was impressed like the admispher
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30 Aug, 2021 by Reyna hernandez
I never got a call back. Will not be hiring this firm.
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14 Jul, 2021 by Nadiya rojas
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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.
