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26 Aug, 2024 by Jay m
Idk about other people but my experience was really good with Michael. Writing this at 2 am one night just remembered how 2 years ago Michael got me outta misdemeanor charge easy n quick.no bs straight business.
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23 Jul, 2024 by M!ke stone
Great Great Great lawyer and good prices, would %100 recommend them to anyone. You would not be disappointed.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Thomas hann
Spoke with Michael over the phone. He is a good guy. Very knowledgeable and patient with all of my questions. Highly recommend.
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16 May, 2017 by Mike
Suzanne and her team were wonderful. If you need an attorney you need to contact her. The response to my questions or concerns were always quick. Since I've never gone through something like this before it's exactly what I needed. I didn't want to sit and wait for answers. There was so much to deal with Suzanne and her team were on top of everything. She would let me know if she was going to be out of town but that didn't slow down her replying to my emails. Just outstanding service and respect from the entire staff. She was also a calming influence when the other attorney was slow to move things forward. She could tell I was getting anxious. Suzanne explained what was going on and politely reached out to the other attorney to move the process forward. I always felt like they cared about me and wanted to make this a less stressful process and they did.
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05 Dec, 2016 by Oana
I have been blessed with her expertise, her compassion and her knowledge. Her team and her firm have made a huge difference in my life. She defended my case PROBONO as she felt I was wronged regarding my kids being internationally abducted by my exhusband. She was strict while very compassionate . She responded my every question and taught me to protect my rights as a left behind parent. She never wavered in her knowledge. Everything was on time . She and her team are worth every penny and more. I could never repay her. My boys are back home , happy, healty and safe. Highly recommended.
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02 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Suzanne and her firm quickly become like family. They do their best to keep fees down (she's not a magician, and it can be expensive, but that depends on how the opposing team acts and how much work you're willing to do on your own, how organized you are-and how well you LISTEN). She'll be upfront and honest about what can happen, even if it's not what you want to hear. She won't promise something if she's not certain she can deliver. She and her firm are some of the few attorneys in the Memphis area who understand what to expect and what to do in a domestic violence situation.
My case was both contentious and complicated (involving 2 states), but she took charge after being hired mid-case and worked at warp speed (as far as courts are concerned). I never once set foot in a court room until the final hearing where my divorce was granted. I still consult with her and her associate as things come up, as I still have a little guy to protect.
Landers Firm is the ONLY family law firm in Memphis that I would personally recommend. My only regret was that I didn't find her until after I had already filed.
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19 Jan, 2021 by Joseph calvin
Very professional and takes great pride in helping his clients. He never made me feel inadequate or rushed. He took his time to explain every question i had. Thanks
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05 Jun, 2014 by David
I was facing DUI and reckless driving charges in Mississippi, and James helped get my charges DISMISSED! He was also very responsive to my emails and phone calls whenever I had a question or needed some information. I highly recommend him.
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18 Apr, 2013 by T mc
Mr. Ferguson knows the law and practices it well. WE WON!!!
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12 Aug, 2011 by Meliqua
Alicia is very professional and she did a great job handling my brothers case. She kept me informed the entire time and also landed advice for me and my family. I will definitely recommend her.
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11 Mar, 2017 by Ricardo z
Emily is helping me with my U-Visa through the Community Legal Center here in Memphis. Once she got all my documentation she filled the applications, send them out and now after my biometrics appointment I'm just waiting. She explained everything to me and answered all my questions. I'm so grateful the Community Legal Center took my case and assigned Emily as my attorney and once I get my EAD I will be donating to the CLC. There's no way I can pay what the CLC and Emily have done for me.
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06 Apr, 2022 by Clinton anderson
29 Mar, 2022 by Gregory blumenthal (greg)
27 Oct, 2021 by Zack williams (exzackly)
17 Dec, 2024 by Julian _smith
Mr. Jim Hale is the best lawyer in Memphis! He saved my life! I was dealing with 2 cases that I was innocent of and he had both cases dismissed! He was very professional and he truly cares! My first son was born during this time and it put my mind at ease with the help I received from him! Thank you so much and I appreciate you!
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02 Nov, 2024 by Mario london
This Attorney here delivered what he said. You can instantly tell he know his way through the court room. Your calls never go unanswered. Thats one thing I really love about him. I transport dangerous goods for a living and was fixing to loose my credentials. Well thanks to Mr. Hale that problem got expunged from my life. Thanks Mr.Hale.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Melanie gibson
23 Nov, 2017 by Frank
The best lawyer I have had, knew all aspects of general. disability case knowledge. She would be a plus to have as your lawyer. Thank You Robyn Ryan
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05 Nov, 2014 by Thomas
Mr. Ryan practices mostly criminal and family law. Mr. Ryan is a former prosecutor and public defender with years of experience. I took him a personal injury case that no one wanted to take and he got me a fair and just settlement.
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03 Oct, 2019 by Gemini sister
I want to begin with saying Brandi Heiden is the Best Attorney I could have come across in the most devastating time of my life. In Sept. 2017 I was in a 6 year relationship & we had a 5 1/2 yr old son. We were engaged, but in no rush to get married. My Fiancé had a long time (20yr) drug addiction, that I was aware of when we began our relationship. However, I got pregnant within 3 months of us dating. I thought maybe between myself & the baby he always wanted, he would change. That was hopeful but very naive. We had many ups & downs; arguments and breakdowns. We separated 3-4 times in 6 years. One thing we did love more than anything and always put before “US” was our son. That’s what always kept us coming back together. He made a decision to quit the street drugs (EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE) & get on Methadone. He explained to me it was legal, given to him at a clinic, where he would have to go everyday to take, also have to take drug test to assure he wasn’t taking any other drug, & they also provided counseling. Plus it was $100 a week vs $600-$700 a week. Anyway, it changed him, his moods, his patience, he was always angry & mean. The emotional, mental, & verbal abuse I had gotten used to, got worse & one day the physical began. This had never happened, but to make matters worse my 5 yr old saw the entire thing, & my son was the one who knew to call 911. We were both scared. My fiancé was arrested & after a few weeks, we went to court and I allowed him to continue coaching my sons football team and visit him with my supervision. My In-laws began pushing & pushing for us to get married asap. Saying it be better for our son & look better for my fiancé in court. Well, we did. November 2017 we got married. Not even 3 weeks after, Dec. 2nd 2017 he shoved me through a bedroom door.. my heart broke, police came again & arrested him.
On Dec 7th 2017 I took my son to school & when I went to pick him up I was told he was already picked up & I could no longer come to the school. A world wind hit me. I didn’t know who, what, where my son was. Then I got a text from my mother in law, she was granted temp. guardianship of my son for Dependency & Neglect. I immediately called around & found out about Brandi Heiden. We met the next day & basically went over several false allegations against me that my mother in law had lied about. That’s when it hit me, she needed me to marry her son so she would have rights to try to take my son away, because she couldn’t accept what her son had been doing for so long. I was Lost. Now I wasn’t “innocent until proven guilty, I had to PROVE my innocence. I will NEVER forget the words Ms. Heiden told me that day; “ Do Exactly What I Tell You To Do, Everything, even if the judge does not order it, Do It, and You Will Get Your Son Back, I Promise”. So thats what I did. I took 12 classes on Abused Women. I took 30 (3hr) Drug & Alcohol classes, when I don’t use drugs & occasionally have glass of wine. I took 2 hair follicle drug tests where I watched them chop off 8 thick pieces of my hair, & took over 2 dozen drug/alcohol urine screens. EVERY single test came back Negative! All of this took precious time away from me w/my son. Days I would pull over & call Brandi (Ms.Heiden) crying that I missed him & needed him & was hurting; a piece of me was just gone. She would talk to me, remind me how good I was doing, how hard I was fighting & I am a good mother & will get him back. With over 15 court dates, I lost my job, my car, & my house. Now it really looked bad... if I did get him back how would I support him, where would we live.? I kept praying & An elderly man from church had lost his wife & offered 2 rooms in his house for me & my son a place to stay. Brandi said the state will help w/the rest. Brandi wkd hours on end for me. Finally Nov 19 2018 (11mo/12 days) the judge awarded Me FULL Custody!
I am FOREVER GRATEFUL & THANKFUL to Ms. Heiden! My Son is home w/me where He belongs; & I made a Friend 4 Life !!
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21 Jan, 2025 by Dante rosales
I hired a lawyer from this office that took $10,000 from me and then quit practicing family law 6 months later.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Jake steffenhagen
Joshua Corman handled my case with precise expertise. I cannot thank him enough for his care and genuine manner. Very accommodating and professional, great communication. Highly recommended.
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06 Jan, 2025 by April fletcher
Mr. Angelakis is the real MVP. From the beginning to the end!! Very informative, patient and friendly. Even the receptionist was a sweetheart. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond for their clients.He’s most definitely the guy to get the job done. I promise you want be disappointed!!!
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21 Dec, 2024 by Cassidy smith
Definitely don't recommend expecting to receive any sort of good outcome when hiring Macaw, still trying to undo the damage that was done.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Modearer henry
Thank you for the professional way in which you handled my business.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Khailyn thompson
The positive reviews are all true! Thank you all for your professional, compassion, and support. I honestly was scared and doubtful I could receive help but Ms. Amanda, Ms. Connie, and Attorney Jordan has been my team during my fresh start journey. Each step has been discussed verbally and provided to me in writing. I am almost at the end of my journey and I am happy to say I chose Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC! You should look no further for professionalism with a compassionate touch!
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19 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Rhonda is great at what she does. When I gave her a call. She returned my call be for end of day. She was very timely. Anytime we had questions she would give the honest answer. Did sugar coat it. We love her. She will always be my lawyer
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19 May, 2022 by Anthony
Being someone in the court system regularly, I have seen and heard many attorneys. Nowadays its easier for me to spot those who just want money and aren't truly interested in doing the best job possible for their client. This is NOT the case with Attorney Rhonda Hooks. I have seen her passion and voracity whether its a paying client, court appointed client or a Pro Bono case. I have hired her to represent me and I was very satisfied and pleased with the end results. Hire this one.
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12 May, 2022 by Nikkia
Top-notch / Professional~ Attorney Rhonda D. Hooks provides excellent service. I would highly recommend {Attorney Rhonda} to anyone needing legal assistance. Thanks Rhonda ~Nikkia P.~
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16 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Nick acted like he cared about my case. As the victim of long standing DV, ending with my ex being arrested and a SWAT team being involved, I thought I would finally see justice. Nope. Nick didn’t return phone calls/emails. I had proof my ex was violating multiple conditions of his bond order. Nick simply didn’t care. Transferred the case to Shelby County. There will be no consequences. So now my ex gets to do this to someone else. Nick is a coward. Lazy. Incompetent. Unprofessional.
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29 Nov, 2018 by Cynthia mason-hutchinson
My father was incarcerated for an incident against my brother and after I met with Nick for a consultation and within 3 minutes of talking with him, I hired him immediately. Nick was very detailed on all of the pros and cons of my dads case, very informative and through from day one. My dad was looking at a lengthy sentence, “Possibly Life,” but Nick pushed on and my Dad ended up not passing away behind bars, but instead at home with his family. Thanks to Nicks persistence, dedication, commitment, and unselfish loyalty to my Dad & Our Family. For all of that, I am and will always be forever grateful to Nick! I can never Thank You Enough.
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29 Mar, 2017 by Fotini sandoval
Thanks to Nicholas! Every step of my divorce was explained in detail with no unexpected surprises!
Highly Recommended!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Travis caldwell
Please reconsider if you’re planning on using this law firm. They are HORRIBLE and they do not communicate with the client. They only answer the phone when they’re trying to get you as a client and after that you won’t hear from them. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Amy kollias
28 Oct, 2024 by Veronica james
Great experience! Sequita was very communicative and helpful. We definitely recommend this law office.
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06 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Stephens was the first of my 4 Attorney’s that took my case to heart and realize that there are some good dads out there. She helped me gain back more time with my boys. So appreciative!
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07 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
My son got in a little trouble being at the wrong place at the wrong time which could have had major consequences. She represented us without fail and we are so grateful for the results! Would highly recommend!
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06 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Worked all day long on my criminal case until it was done and finished. So happy with the results.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Dante rosales
I hired a lawyer from this office that took $10,000 from me and then quit practicing family law 6 months later.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Jake steffenhagen
Joshua Corman handled my case with precise expertise. I cannot thank him enough for his care and genuine manner. Very accommodating and professional, great communication. Highly recommended.
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06 Jan, 2025 by April fletcher
Mr. Angelakis is the real MVP. From the beginning to the end!! Very informative, patient and friendly. Even the receptionist was a sweetheart. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond for their clients.He’s most definitely the guy to get the job done. I promise you want be disappointed!!!
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07 Jun, 2024 by W johnsen
Jason was very professional and provided great service. I highly recommend him.
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26 Aug, 2021 by John littles
17 Aug, 2021 by Walter butler
07 Jun, 2024 by W johnsen
Jason was very professional and provided great service. I highly recommend him.
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26 Aug, 2021 by John littles
17 Aug, 2021 by Walter butler
04 Feb, 2025 by Tacaris payne
From the Briscoe Family. Hired Mr Campbell for my case, he told me what he was gonna do and he did everything he said he was gonna do. Excellent attorney . Will be using him again and I strongly recommend him. And all of the staff was nice, friendly and helpful. If you need a attorney that's gonna fight for you and succeed, call Campbell law firm.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Tammy mcgowan
Ms. Tanya helped to keep the flow of our case on point. From appointment reminders, taking time to explain things from court…whatever she could do to assist was done. Your hard work for Us did not go unnoticed 🥰🥰
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29 Jan, 2025 by Tamera mcgowan
Our experience with Attorney Campbell definitely met & exceeded expectation. From our very first meet he stated what he would do with the case and he did just that….executed!! I’m talking about a certified mind and mouth in the courtroom with the prosecutors and judge. I hope we never need representation again…but best believe if we do Atty. Campbell is on speed dial.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Santana trenell
Just been waiting and waiting and waiting… poor service .. no effort
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08 Dec, 2024 by Justin marise
So since early September I was trying to get my VA case appealed, I left a dozen messages over the course of a few months with the assistant but they would never return my call, I literally spoke to him once and he said if I could get a doctor to send a letter that they would appeal my case for me, but they would never return my calls so we could move forward. Definitely wish I hadn't wasted my time.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Janae declouet
Very unprofessional. She blocked me from contacting her by email and claimed she never received the voice mail or messages from her secretary. She made a deal with my Ex. without my input.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Santana trenell
Just been waiting and waiting and waiting… poor service .. no effort
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08 Dec, 2024 by Justin marise
So since early September I was trying to get my VA case appealed, I left a dozen messages over the course of a few months with the assistant but they would never return my call, I literally spoke to him once and he said if I could get a doctor to send a letter that they would appeal my case for me, but they would never return my calls so we could move forward. Definitely wish I hadn't wasted my time.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Janae declouet
Very unprofessional. She blocked me from contacting her by email and claimed she never received the voice mail or messages from her secretary. She made a deal with my Ex. without my input.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Wen austin
Disregard of memphians in need of answers
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21 Jul, 2023 by Timothy n warren
19 Dec, 2020 by Simi valley stereo
You know you deserve more than five stars for all the hard work and time you put into fighting for justice on a daily basis. You guys clearly earned a good reputation and i was glad to be the first to point that out.
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13 Aug, 2021 by Michelle white
Mr Sheldon was not able to comprehend anything he just asked the same thing over and over like it was the first time he asked the question. He I incapable of doing his job seems to be suffering from dementia or something. Do not use him!!!!!!
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12 Aug, 2021 by Kim hicks
I had a terrible experience there I had to explain the situation at least 10 times and I didn't feel like he understands anything you are saying to him, very incompetent
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12 Aug, 2021 by Walter radford
He seems to be senile and incompetent he forgets conversations and blanks out does not need to be a attorney
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14 Sep, 2024 by Karma
It was quite scary and hard for a 14-year old trans kid to face their rapist and not cry. The process was long and grueling but getting to meet my lawyer and judge before having to testify in front of a group of random people and to tell what he did to me made it much better. I don't think I could bare to do this ever again but the process was worth it.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason rudd
The feds need to come here asap totally ineffective. How are we fighting crime when they just let these criminals out without facing any consequences. I'm ashamed that I unfortunately live in this hell hole.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Dillon crone
My Rating is Zero!!! This office should be ashamed... It's a No Wonder these Criminals are Running the streets. 18 year old gets caught breaking into cars and gets a $1000 bond... I guarantee you he had his $100 to bond out.... Right back on the street!!! SMH...
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14 Sep, 2024 by Karma
It was quite scary and hard for a 14-year old trans kid to face their rapist and not cry. The process was long and grueling but getting to meet my lawyer and judge before having to testify in front of a group of random people and to tell what he did to me made it much better. I don't think I could bare to do this ever again but the process was worth it.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason rudd
The feds need to come here asap totally ineffective. How are we fighting crime when they just let these criminals out without facing any consequences. I'm ashamed that I unfortunately live in this hell hole.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Dillon crone
My Rating is Zero!!! This office should be ashamed... It's a No Wonder these Criminals are Running the streets. 18 year old gets caught breaking into cars and gets a $1000 bond... I guarantee you he had his $100 to bond out.... Right back on the street!!! SMH...
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14 Sep, 2024 by Karma
It was quite scary and hard for a 14-year old trans kid to face their rapist and not cry. The process was long and grueling but getting to meet my lawyer and judge before having to testify in front of a group of random people and to tell what he did to me made it much better. I don't think I could bare to do this ever again but the process was worth it.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason rudd
The feds need to come here asap totally ineffective. How are we fighting crime when they just let these criminals out without facing any consequences. I'm ashamed that I unfortunately live in this hell hole.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Dillon crone
My Rating is Zero!!! This office should be ashamed... It's a No Wonder these Criminals are Running the streets. 18 year old gets caught breaking into cars and gets a $1000 bond... I guarantee you he had his $100 to bond out.... Right back on the street!!! SMH...
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14 Sep, 2024 by Karma
It was quite scary and hard for a 14-year old trans kid to face their rapist and not cry. The process was long and grueling but getting to meet my lawyer and judge before having to testify in front of a group of random people and to tell what he did to me made it much better. I don't think I could bare to do this ever again but the process was worth it.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason rudd
The feds need to come here asap totally ineffective. How are we fighting crime when they just let these criminals out without facing any consequences. I'm ashamed that I unfortunately live in this hell hole.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Dillon crone
My Rating is Zero!!! This office should be ashamed... It's a No Wonder these Criminals are Running the streets. 18 year old gets caught breaking into cars and gets a $1000 bond... I guarantee you he had his $100 to bond out.... Right back on the street!!! SMH...
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12 May, 2023 by Sandra
This lawyer is a crook he took 5,000.00 from me and close my case told me we was going to trial never happen file a complaint with the board . I trusted this lawyer he is not right at all.
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13 Apr, 2022 by Southern logistical
Ex county Attorney John Jones who disclosed edited and altered video to me in discovery with my federal lawsuit Tc Elliott v LGolston et al Shelby County Sheriff I spoke to him the day before he recused himself never spoke recusing instead he told me to let a jury decide I had motions Judge Tu Pham didn’t answer in months but soon as the motion to recuse was filed it was signed by Judge Tu Pham this whole system is corrupt they refuse to give me a open record request you have County Attorneys over records request there lies of bias for any person suing government officials they refuse to release they insurance provider I have Degenerate disc disease do to the injury’s I recieved
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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.
