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05 Sep, 2024 by Nancy friedman
McGee, Lerer & Associates is a fabulous law firm. Catherine Lerer is not only an extremely knowledgeable attorney but a also a very nice human being! This law firm will care about you.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Lev bayer
They take on too many cases, promise you the world, and then pressure you to settle. I spent six months in a wheelchair six weeks in a hospital and had to take medicine designed to be taken for a couple of months every day of my life to walk, for an incomplete paralyzation. After everything was said and done I lost $60,000. Catherine, who was my attorney would constantly not return my calls and have her husband call me. When you ask for a copy of your file, they refuse to give it to you. I had written them a good review just to get them to leave me alone as the pressure was relentless. Do yourself a favor and run in the other direction that is if you still can.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Lisa pearlman
I can't say enough great things about them. I had a very serious accident with multiple fractures. They immediately put me at ease. They've been doing this for several years. They have former insurance adjusters, they really know how to deal with insurance companies.
Anna is so knowledgeable & very caring. So patient! She explains everything thoroughly & is very well informed.
She's genuinely concerned with our health & stays in touch for updates. She always responds quickly with emails, etc. They offer guidance with finances & help set you up w advisors. I could go on & on! They're genuinely out to help people & get justice. The office staff are always really friendly & quick to assist.
Any negative connotations about lawyers, are non existent here. Impeccable all around.
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14 Jun, 2023 by Crystal
I have been involved in a contentious custody dispute with my daughters father. We were never married. My daughter is 8 years old now. Several years ago the court awarded sole legal and physical custody to me based upon substantiated findings of domestic violence.
Recently, my daughters father filed a motion for change of custody. The court appointed Randi Susan Klein as minors counsel to represent the best interest of my daughter. Ms. Klein interviewed my daughter, myself and her father privately. She read through documents in the court file, as well as other pleadings my lawyer sent to her. When we arrived in court, I had no idea what her recommendation was going to be.
Ms. Klein recommended in my favor. She explained to the Judge, step by step, why my daughter should remain in my custody. While she was talking, the judge was carefully listening to her. He was shaking his head in agreement. As a result of Ms. Klein's hard work and presentation, the judge dismissed the fathers motion.
I was so relieved that I cried tears of joy. Ms. Klein was a very strong voice for my child and she was well prepared. I am so grateful that the court appointed her to be my daughters lawyer.
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14 Jun, 2023 by Marie
My daughter is involved in a contentious custody battle with her child's father. Her daughter, my grand-daughter, is 8 years old. There was a court hearing this morning. I went with my daughter to court this morning to support her.
When my grand daughter was very young, her father beat my daughter and threatened to take my grand daughter away from her. My grand daughter witnessed the beatings. My grand daughter is still in therapy sorting out how this affected her. The father also prevented me from seeing my grand daughter until she was 9 months old. Eventually my daughter got civil and criminal restraining orders against the father. Now he is only allowed supervised visits.
Recently the father filed a motion for change of custody. The court appointed Randi Susan Klein as minors counsel to represent my grand daughter. Today was the hearing for the court to rule on the father's motion. Ms. Klein was a very strong advocate for my grand daughter. She explained to the court, in a very logical and passionate way, why my granddaughter should remain in my daughter's custody.
Neither my daughter nor myself knew, ahead of time, what Ms. Klein would be recommending to the court. She was eloquent. She understood both the legal and the emotional issues and explained how that impacted our family. I cried when I listed to her in court.
The court dismissed the father's motion for a change of custody.
I am very relieved and very grateful to Ms. Klein. Because of her hard work and commitment, my granddaughter will continue to be safe and to get the professional help that she needs.
Ms. Klein was amazing & did a Great job, I Highly recommend her for anyone seeking Minors Counsel, she is the Best !!!
Thank you❤️
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31 Mar, 2023 by Maria
Randi Klein wastes no time! I am truly grateful for all her help in our guardianship/custody case. She is direct and very helpful, even going out of her way to accommodate her clients. I really appreciated the attention and care to detail she gave to our case. If you are in a situation, she is definitely reliable and does not take any of the run-around. If you can get her to represent you, please do so, she is awesome!
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5.0
20 Reviews
05 May, 2022 by Douglas
Mr. Brenner was retained on my son’s criminal matter and he did an excellent job that resulted in a “non-filing” by the prosecutor’s office. He was hired early in the process which made the difference. I am grateful for his hard work and professionalism. Very responsive!
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22 Dec, 2020 by Lisa
Greg was so helpful and supportive. He handled my court situation expertly and got me in and out so quickly I was able to get back to work within an hour.
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22 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Greg represented my family member on an issue that might have been construed as hit and run. He managed to take charge, arrange very kind terms, and turned a major anxiety into relief. Couldn't recommend him more highly.
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02 Aug, 2018 by James
Mr. Kazemi helped me with something that has been hard to put behind me, and now that I have a second chance I plan too own it. Thank you I really appreciate it.
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01 Jun, 2018 by Scott
Hooman is the utmost professional and sincere person. He helped our family get through a very difficult time after we were wrongfully apprehended for a theft case. He listened, he cared, he thoughtfully vetted all of the evidence and applied the necessary due diligence to have our case dismissed. What he did for our family will never be forgotten. He fought hard from the moment we stepped in the court room and was both sympathetic and empathetic towards us and expeditiously resolved the matter with caution and careful presentation of our case to the prosecutor and judge.
Once again, we will never forget what you did for our family.
We are 100% supportive of you and your efforts and wish you the best of luck in your career with upward mobility.
Best -
Scott and Anna
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01 Jul, 2010 by Rich
With the increasing complexity of often contradictory laws, it takes brilliance and very significant ingenuity to keep our legal system both fair and sensible. Hooman Kazemi is both brilliant and extremely skilled. In my case, he was able to change the charge against me from one that was unfair, to one that was factually correct and fair. He also negotiated a very fair and considerate resolution with the Prosecutor. Without his skill and thorough knowledge, I am certain that I would have been illogically and unfairly punished for a very simple and unintentional oversight. His identification and re-classification of the charge, in my opinion, showed an uncommon degree of knowledge and expertise. At age 61 as a manufacturer and exporter, I have worked with governments around the world and have never seen better legal counsel. His skill is uncommon, and his enthusiasm is phenomenal.
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11 Dec, 2022 by Christine leible
Working with Banner Law Group was a positive experience. They do an outstanding job of being proactive with your case and informing you about its developments. Attorney Arnab is an expert in employment law and helped me feel confident knowing I was in the hands of the right professional. I highly recommend them without hesitation.
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30 Apr, 2021 by Paula gutierres
Attorney Arnab demonstrated compassion, commitment, sound counsel and positive resolution of my complicated and sensitive case far exceeding my expectations.
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23 Apr, 2021 by Tresa mcgranahan
Having Arnab on my side made all the difference. Highly recommend
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22 Oct, 2013 by Norma
I retained Mr. Jacek Lentz to represent me in a recent criminal case and it was the best choice I have ever made.
He acted quickly and effectively putting extensive time to learn about my case and planning my defense. He maintained daily contact with me and kept me informed on the development of the process.
Since the initial consultation he spoke realistically about the possible outcome of my case and was clear on what his fees would cover, but grateafully, as a token, his legal advice went above and beyond the terms of the retainer.
I had confidence in his skills and the outcome of my case was extremely positive.
I highly recommend Mr. Lentz to anyone who needs an honest, kind, and dedicated criminal defense attorney.
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12 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
I have worked with Jacek He is a very dependable lawyer. He knows his stuff. After he worked on the case. The judge dismissed all 4 counts of my charges.
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23 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
I discovered Mr. Jacek Lentz by coincidence, which is very fortunate for me. Upon meeting him in person I was pleased to find that he was very down to earth and approachable. After discussing my case with him he was able devise a defense strategy which helped me beat my case. I was very impressed with his confidence and strong demeanor in court. I would highly recommend his services to anyone in position needing strong representation.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Marcus
I was falsely accused and Attorney Rome helped me fix my situation in Los Angeles. He was so kind and understanding through the whole process and really helped me feel comfortable. I would highly highly recommend him if you need a lawyer.
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09 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Jody was assigned to me as my public defender when I had to deal with a drug charge a few years back. I was basically ready to simply plead guilty and pay the fine/attend the classes/do whatever I needed to do to move on with life. After hearing the details of the case, Jody recommended I plead not guilty. I did so and the case was put on hold for a few months. On the next court date I was astounded at the amount of preparation he put into making all of the points to make the case. I don’t want to butcher the legal lingo, but I really really really appreciated what he did for me and the outcome HE created. I think about Jody on a regular basis and figured I’d look him up and was surprised he didn’t have any reviews yet…figured I needed to be the first! Thanks again so much…I know I’m just a blip in your 10000 cases, but you’re incredible at what you do and it doesn’t go unnoticed.
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22 Mar, 2021 by Candi
Marlene Furth was my attorney when I was a child, she was the best person I had dealt with throughout my case from 1994-2002. Ms. Furth made sure i understood every thing that was going on, she also would listen to me and hear me out if I had a problem. this lady was the only one telling me the truth no matter what. That I really appreciated! Thank You So much for your dedication, honesty and loyalty. Congratulations on your law firm too!!
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08 Jan, 2024 by Rolando barajas
Highly recommend. Knowledgeable, honest, and more importantly helpful. They offer the best representation at a very fair price, and I felt like they were with me at every step. In my situation of dire need, I felt relieved that I could leave it to them to handle my case.
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30 Jul, 2023 by Chantal freim
This is an amazing law firm! Their team of former prosecutors turned criminal defense attorneys brought an unmatched level of expertise to their clients and gives them their special edge when it came to their defense strategy. Attorneys Patrick Gomez, Willie Radford and David Rome each have a deep understanding of both sides of the legal system. They are relentless in their pursuit of justice and exhibited unwavering dedication to protecting their clients rights. They each have great communication and possess a strong approach as to how they will attack the prosecutions case. I highly recommend this law firm to anyone in need of top-notch criminal defense attorneys. Very kind and are eager to know their clients and their stories, and are not just after the money.
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01 Jul, 2023 by Rebecca thompson
This team is AMAZING! they are very knowledgeable and helpful. I highly recommend
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24 Apr, 2024 by Fiona kayemba magezi
Have had the pleasure of working with Ms. Young on a probate matter for a young family. She was kind, courteous and her attention detail was able to put them at ease at a very difficult time in their life. I would high recommend her services for her expertise and compassion.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Jamie ledezma
As an estate planning attorney, I have had the privilege of collaborating with numerous legal experts, and I confidently recommend Debra Young to anyone seeking top-notch trust administration, probate, or conservatorship services. What truly sets Deb apart is her unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. She prioritizes clear communication, transparency, and client education throughout the entire process. I have witnessed firsthand the peace of mind and confidence that her clients experience as a result of Deb's diligent work and compassionate approach.
I wholeheartedly trust Deb with my own clients and friends, knowing that they will receive the highest level of service and expertise. If you are in need of a trustworthy and skilled probate attorney in California, I cannot recommend Young Law Firm enough.
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26 May, 2023 by Nancy ortiz
5.0
5 Reviews
4.9
164 Reviews
14 Sep, 2024 by Brycen shea
The professionalism and reputation that comes with this law firm will help you with your case every step of the way. They will fight for you to get the very best possible outcome on your case.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Ademar ramirez
We had a great experience. Very professional and efficient firm. Thank you all for your work!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ramy garsdean
I recently had the pleasure of working with Pacific Health Law Group for the purchase of my dental practice, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with their services. From start to finish, their team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, expertise, and dedication.
Navigating the complexities of acquiring a business can be daunting, but they made the process seamless and stress-free. Their attention to detail and thorough understanding of the legal intricacies involved were truly impressive. They took the time to address all my concerns, provided clear and insightful guidance, and ensured that every aspect of the transaction was handled with utmost care.
What stood out the most was their personalized approach; they made me feel like a valued client rather than just another case. Their commitment to achieving the best outcome for me was evident throughout the entire process.
I highly recommend Pacific Health Law Group to anyone in need of expert legal support for purchasing a business. Their knowledge, professionalism, and client-focused service are unparalleled. Thank you again for helping make this significant milestone in my career a reality!
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.9
38 Reviews
27 Jun, 2024 by Sun tzu
Bereliani Law Firm went beyond my expectations!
Sanaz has a good team and thorough system to ensure your bankruptcy gets finalized.
I am self employed, my case was more in depth.
I interviewed several attorneys in San Diego and LA area and they were suggesting Chapter 13 and avoiding chapter 7 because of my equity in my home, they said I was limited on exemptions ie and my vehicle and personal property were at risk!
Sanaz is very creative with creating and interpreting exemptions that the other attorneys NEVER mentioned and or understood, interpreting exemptions is very important, ie “Commercial Work Vehicle” (Truck) verses “vehicle”, that changed the game, the trustee wanted more money for my work truck and was also trying me on personal property and Sanaz put them in check!
She got my Chapter 7 discharged, I kept my condo equity, I owed nothing for my commercial work truck and personal items.
The other attorneys I interviewed were ok with having me agree to make an uncomfortable stressful payment plan to make it easy for them to file chapter 13….
Sanaz and her team tolerated all my calls and emails = STRESS and got me through it.
Sanaz and her team are the ones you want to represent you!!! Worth every dollar!!!
Thank you Sanaz!!!
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23 Mar, 2024 by David saghian
Very professional practice and firm.
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12 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Working with the team was seamlessly easy. Chris and Sanaz were amazing and educated me on every step of the process and explained everything so thoroughly.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Mandey moore
29 Sep, 2024 by Courtney williams
My name is Courtney and my experience with Jane Oak law firm was seamless. Absolutely knowledgeable and fiduciary. God bless you all. o thought my situation was impossible but( JANE OAK ) got it done. Thank you......
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26 Sep, 2024 by Luis leon
06 Aug, 2024 by Doronofy abcd
18 May, 2024 by Carla bianca v. ravanes higham
Kevin Gres is an exceptional legal professional who embodies integrity and compassion. When hope seemed lost in our search for representation, Kevin's empathy and dedication shone through from our first conversation. He not only took us on as clients but also eased our anxiety with his expertise and guidance. Throughout the process, Kevin's kindness and excellent communication skills remained unwavering, and his commitment to fighting for justice was evident. He is a true advocate for those unfairly accused, going above and beyond to explore all avenues for the best outcomes. Incredibly grateful for Kevin's brilliance and integrity, words cannot fully express our appreciation for his outstanding service.
Thank you again Kevin, your kindness is one we will remember forever.
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03 May, 2024 by Keino delacruz
Just wanted to say thanks to the whole Esfandi Law Group team. I came to them needing an expungement, and I got an expungement.
Mr. Esfandi was even gracious enough to work with me on a payment plan which is really what pushed me to pursue this course of action, and I am so grateful to have what feels like a new lease on life.
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29 Sep, 2024 by Courtney williams
My name is Courtney and my experience with Jane Oak law firm was seamless. Absolutely knowledgeable and fiduciary. God bless you all. o thought my situation was impossible but( JANE OAK ) got it done. Thank you......
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25 Aug, 2024 by Darwin lopez
Quiero darle las gracias a mi asesor legal Miguel Ibarguen y a la firma Moaddel law Firm por su buen servicio y comunicación que me han brindado y me siguen brindando recomendados 100% el proceso de mi caso ha sido tan rápido que ya tengo mi estatus legal en está gran nación, gracias a Dios y ha ellos por su excelente trabajo.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Isai motuto
Excelente atención por parte de Manuel Godoy de Moaddel Law Firm, Manuel es muy amable y siempre está atento a los correos, llamadas y mensajes.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Joyce rocha
Mr. Gray was recommended to me through a friend that had a really tough case and thanks to Mr. Gray expertise and knowledge his case was approved. My case wasn't as complicated as my friend's but it wasn't easy.
Unfortunately before I hired Mr. Gray I had another lawyer that gave me the worst possible service and I almost lost my citizenship.
When I came to Mr. Gray I was hopeless but he lifted my spirits, just his voice and demeanor alone made me feel hopeful. I hired him and I couldn't be more satisfied with the outcome. From the start he was attentive, and knowledgeable about every aspect of my case. He guided me through the entire process with patience and clarity, making sure I understood each step. Thanks to his expertise, my case was approved, and I'm incredibly grateful for his support. I highly recommend Gray Law to anyone in need of an excellent immigration lawyer!
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22 Apr, 2024 by Nik shee
Why can't I get a hold of you?I have been calling so many times. Please let me know.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Krešimir
The Best!!!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Channel_ 3
Did not represent me, but gave me great legal advice and resources that he did not have to do Thsnk you again and best of luck to everyone out there!😁
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19 Jun, 2024 by A c
FREE KAREN READ!
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18 Jun, 2024 by T glaspie
Mr. Jackson is an extraordinarily phenomenal defense attorney! Extremely professional, poised, tenacious and outright brilliant! Watching him litigate is a sight to see!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Zahra dowlatabadi
Reached out to SmartLaw for a referral and was responded to in less 24 hrs.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Erik stroman
SD went above and beyond to help me over the course of 3 days to provide me the proper information I needed resulting in my ability to screen, communicate and ultimately engage with legal representation, which I was in a real hurry to secure. She is truly a person that anyone would want on their team. A++
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27 Aug, 2024 by J
MIGUEL AND HIS TEAM ARE TOP-NOTCH EXPERT PROFESSIONALS... MIGUEL QUICKLY GAVE MEE AN EXCELLENT LEAD TO AN ATTORNEY THAT DOES ELEVATOR INJURY CASES... THANKS TO SMARTLAW, I'VE BEEN ABLE TO GET THE BALL ROLLING! GRACIAS MIGUEL AND CREW...
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18 Sep, 2024 by Jonathan alcerro
I went in and out of the courts all by myself with no luck for 2 years. Served her several times and even though the mother never showed up, things didn’t change. They FINALLY helped me get custody but by the time I got it, it was too late. Mother took my daughter who knows where. Detectives are still looking for them. It’s been over 14 years since I have seen her. The family court system is broken, you really DO need someone by your side with experience navigating it. I only wish I knew about them and called earlier. Maybe I could have gotten custody before she disappeared. And they did it all for free.
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06 Jul, 2024 by Daisy moreno
People is very nice, all of them
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06 Jun, 2024 by Tv
As if it wasn't hard already being a victim of domestic violence, there Levitt & Quinn is to make it an even more grueling process. I applied for help over a month prior to my final court hearing. After jumping through many hoops: 1) traveling to and applying directly at the office 2) submitting additional paperwork that took much effort to collect detail behind 3) several delays in correspondence from L&Q and 4) needing to spend money on requested documentation, I wasn't able to even land a consultation. They were misleading with hope throughout the process. They could've told me "we are unable to help at this time," which would've sufficed instead of wasting the time and energy of someone who is already suffering.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Juvenile Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A juvenile law lawyer specializes in legal issues involving minors, including those facing criminal charges, child welfare matters, or status offenses (like truancy or curfew violations). Juvenile law lawyers aim to protect the rights of minors and advocate for rehabilitation rather than punishment in criminal cases. They also help families navigate child custody, abuse, neglect cases, and other legal matters involving children.
If your child is facing criminal charges, or you are involved in a child welfare case, a juvenile law lawyer can help protect your child’s rights and work toward the most favorable outcome.
When Should I Hire a Juvenile Law Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a juvenile law lawyer in the following situations where minors are involved in legal matters:
- Juvenile criminal charges: If your child is accused of a crime, such as theft, assault, or drug offenses, a juvenile lawyer can represent them in juvenile court, advocating for leniency and alternatives to detention.
- Delinquency proceedings: A lawyer can help navigate delinquency charges, defending your child’s rights and seeking rehabilitative outcomes like counseling, probation, or diversion programs instead of incarceration.
- Status offenses: If your child has committed a status offense, such as truancy, running away, or underage drinking, a lawyer can help you resolve these issues in juvenile court, often focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
- School disciplinary issues: If your child is facing school suspensions, expulsions, or other disciplinary actions, a lawyer can help protect their educational rights and challenge any unfair or unlawful school policies.
- Child protective services (CPS) investigations: If your family is being investigated by CPS for alleged abuse, neglect, or dependency, a lawyer can represent you and protect your child’s rights throughout the investigation.
- Custody disputes: A lawyer can help in cases involving child custody or guardianship disputes, ensuring the child’s best interests are prioritized and advocating for the child’s rights.
- Emancipation: If your child seeks legal emancipation from their parents or guardians, a lawyer can assist in navigating the legal process and help the child understand their rights and responsibilities.
Hiring a lawyer early in the legal process ensures that your child’s rights are protected and that the best possible outcomes are pursued.
What Does a Juvenile Law Lawyer Do?
A juvenile law lawyer provides various services to help minors and their families navigate the legal system. Their responsibilities often include:
- Representing minors in court: A lawyer will represent your child in juvenile court, advocating for their rights and seeking rehabilitative outcomes rather than punitive measures.
- Filing motions and legal paperwork: The lawyer handles all necessary legal filings, including petitions, responses, and motions to dismiss charges or suppress evidence.
- Negotiating with prosecutors: In some cases, a lawyer can negotiate plea deals or diversion programs that prevent the child from having a permanent criminal record or serving time in detention.
- Advising on rehabilitation programs: Juvenile law lawyers often focus on alternatives to incarceration, such as counseling, community service, or probation, helping minors avoid long-term legal consequences.
- Handling CPS and child welfare cases: If your family is involved in a CPS investigation or child welfare case, the lawyer can advocate for your child’s safety and well-being, ensuring that their rights are upheld.
- Defending minors against school discipline: A lawyer can help challenge unfair or excessive disciplinary actions taken by schools, ensuring that your child’s educational rights are protected.
- Advising families on legal options: A lawyer will explain the juvenile legal process to families, offering advice on the best legal strategies and what to expect during the case.
How Are Juvenile Law Lawyers Paid?
Juvenile law lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the time involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many juvenile law lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Flat fee: For simpler cases, such as status offenses or school disciplinary hearings, a lawyer may charge a flat fee that covers all legal services related to the case.
- Retainer: In more complex cases, such as defending against serious criminal charges or handling a long-term CPS investigation, a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment billed against as they work on the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some juvenile law lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or may provide pro bono (free) services for families who cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially in cases involving child welfare or delinquency.
Discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during your consultation to understand the total cost and payment options.
How Much Does a Juvenile Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a juvenile law lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the time involved. General cost estimates include:
- Juvenile criminal cases: Legal fees for defending a minor in juvenile criminal cases can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the severity of the charges and whether the case goes to trial.
- Status offenses: For cases involving minor offenses such as truancy or underage drinking, legal fees typically range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- CPS or child welfare cases: Legal fees for representing families in CPS investigations or child welfare cases can range from $2,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
- School disciplinary hearings: Legal fees for representing students in school-related issues may range from $1,000 to $3,500, depending on the legal work required.
Make sure to get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure you understand the full scope of fees and services.
Top Questions to Ask a Juvenile Law Lawyer
Before hiring a juvenile law lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your child’s case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with juvenile law cases?
Make sure the lawyer has handled cases similar to yours, whether it’s juvenile delinquency, child custody, or CPS investigations. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer. Ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my child’s case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of the case, including potential challenges and likely outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Juvenile cases can vary in duration, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors might affect the timeline. -
Will you personally handle my child’s case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing the case and representing your child in court. -
What rights does my child have?
Ask the lawyer to explain your child’s legal rights, including their rights during police questioning, school disciplinary actions, and court proceedings.
How to Check the Credibility of a Juvenile Law Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable juvenile law lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for juvenile law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in juvenile law and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate in juvenile cases.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on juvenile law matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for memberships in organizations like the National Juvenile Defender Center (NJDC) or certifications in juvenile law, which can indicate a lawyer’s dedication to representing minors.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a juvenile law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Court documents: Bring any legal documents related to your child’s case, such as summons, complaints, or court orders.
- School records: Provide any relevant school records, including disciplinary reports, attendance records, and communications from school officials.
- CPS or investigation reports: If your case involves child welfare, bring any reports or documentation from CPS or other investigating agencies.
- Timeline of events: Prepare a detailed timeline of events related to your child’s legal issue, including interactions with authorities or school officials.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the legal process, your child’s rights, and potential outcomes for the case.
Being well-prepared will help the lawyer assess your child’s situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your needs.
