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16 Jan, 2025 by Asnake demessie
I am beyond thankful for the outstanding work Maxwell did on my case. I was facing a tough situation with a 0.12 charge, but he worked tirelessly and got it reduced to a Careless driving charge. He was professional, knowledgeable, and always kept me informed throughout the process. He truly went above and beyond to achieve the best possible outcome for me. I highly recommend Maxwell to anyone seeking legal representation. they’re the best!
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14 Jan, 2025 by Mtg
Greatest lawyer ever!! If you aren’t trying to break the bank over a ridiculous charge, Max is your guy! He has saved me thousands in the long run.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Annie lee
I found Shek Law on Google and picked this law office based in the good reviews, and I am very glad I did. We live out-of-state and needed his help for a traffic violation and Matt was very helpful and speedy in getting our case settled. I would highly recommend him.
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07 May, 2024 by Nicholas roberts
06 Mar, 2024 by Leaf-on-wind
Best legal advice you could ask for. Nice guy and funny as heck to boot. Would definitely recommend.
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05 Feb, 2024 by Cassaundra tenerelli
16 Jan, 2025 by Asnake demessie
I am beyond thankful for the outstanding work Maxwell did on my case. I was facing a tough situation with a 0.12 charge, but he worked tirelessly and got it reduced to a Careless driving charge. He was professional, knowledgeable, and always kept me informed throughout the process. He truly went above and beyond to achieve the best possible outcome for me. I highly recommend Maxwell to anyone seeking legal representation. they’re the best!
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14 Jan, 2025 by Mtg
Greatest lawyer ever!! If you aren’t trying to break the bank over a ridiculous charge, Max is your guy! He has saved me thousands in the long run.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Annie lee
I found Shek Law on Google and picked this law office based in the good reviews, and I am very glad I did. We live out-of-state and needed his help for a traffic violation and Matt was very helpful and speedy in getting our case settled. I would highly recommend him.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Farhan sham
“Nick Sweeney did an excellent job and successfully resolved my case. He was professional, reliable, and made the process smooth. Highly recommend him!”
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20 Oct, 2024 by Troy azzivitto
I was referred to Keegan Law Office by an associate. Kelly took care of a situation very well, explaining and communicating the process, every step of the way. I would recommend and use Keegan Law Office, again.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Humberto aragon
29 Nov, 2024 by Mai her
Aneta was very helpful in this matter. Truly appreciated her service.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Jason anderson
Aneta is amazing!!! 5 stars is too low for her. I live in a different state and had a bogus issue brought up against me in Minnesota. She handled my case professionally, ethically, aggressively and ultimately won my case! Words can't express my gratitude towards her. She is the lawyer for you!
Aneta = BADASS! :)
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18 Oct, 2024 by Patrick burns
23 Oct, 2024 by Dominique lyng
17 Oct, 2024 by Morgan lauder
Chad is amazing! He helped me out so much in a timely matter. Very informative on every question I had. I’m very much pleased.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Donna minshew
Mike was very quick to answer all emails. He explained everything for our estate planning in a way we could understand. He was patient with us as we made decisions about our final wishes, which can be difficult. Thank you Mike for your assistance in helping us get all of our estate paperwork finalized to protect our assets for our children!
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10 Dec, 2024 by Daniel rudolph
Mr Heefner is not only a good lawyer but he's also a great person. He has helped me regain focus and definitely assisted with becoming a more productive member of society. I appreciate him fighting for me and not giving up on me. He has been Extremely flexible with payment and showed decency in every step of the way with my case. Thank you Mr. Heefner for being nothing short of an absolute blessing.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Adam danberry
Carson Heefner is amazing. He is a attorney who cares about his clients and will do whatever he can to help his client. I just had him on a first degree drug charge and was looking at 115 months prison sentence. The prosecutor wanted me to go to prison and the PSI wanted me to go to prison and he somehow got me 160 days in county and 5 years probation. Thank you so much for giving me a chance at a life.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Heather bakken
Carson Heefner is an exceptional criminal defense attorney whose profound impact on my life cannot be overstated. From our initial consultation, Carson’s professionalism and no-nonsense approach were evident. Faced with a daunting array of cases across multiple counties and having been told by previous attorneys that my situation was grim, Carson stood out as a beacon of hope. His deep compassion, bold commitment, and extensive knowledge of the judicial system were apparent from the start.
Carson’s reputation in the legal community precedes him, and it's clear why. His expertise and respect among peers are well-earned, and he brought these qualities to bear with unwavering dedication in my case. Throughout the entire legal process, Carson was consistently accessible, providing clear and open communication. His down-to-earth style made me feel comfortable and heard, while his vigorous courtroom advocacy instilled a sense of strength and resilience.
Another factor that truly set Carson apart from others was his thoroughness in ensuring I was informed and prepared every step of the way. He methodically coordinated court dates, clarified every motion filed on my behalf, and made certain I fully understood each aspect of the legal proceedings. His meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach were crucial in managing the complexities of my cases.
Thanks to Carson Heefner’s exceptional legal skills and the respect he commands within the legal community, I now have a renewed chance to rebuild my life with newfound passion and hope. His impact extends beyond legal representation; it has inspired me to consider advocacy for others navigating similar legal challenges.
I am profoundly grateful for Carson’s outstanding work and the transformative effect he’s had on my life. For anyone seeking a highly respected attorney who combines expert knowledge with genuine care and relentless dedication, Carson Heefner is an unparalleled choice.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Andrea camacho
I just wanted to give a huge shoutout to Jeff for the awesome job he did. If you're looking for someone who truly knows their stuff and will fight for you Jeff is the one to go to!
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20 Jan, 2025 by Luis angel caicedo martinez
From the moment I got to know Jeff Dean, it was clear that he is an exceptional individual both professionally and personally. He is widely cherished within our community for his honesty, integrity, and genuine kindness, always taking the time to listen and care about those around him. Jeff's work on our case showed me that he combines passion for his job with a strong sense of compassion for his clients. He is laser focused on getting the best possible outcome. His perseverance is impressive—he doesn't back down from challenges and always fights aggressively for his clients.. It was clear that he has a real commitment to justice and an unparalleled work ethic. I wholeheartedly recommend Jeff . Not only will you benefit from his expertise and tenacity, but you'll also experience the kind of attorney who genuinely cares about people. It's rare to find someone who balances fierce advocacy with a warm heart, but he does it effortlessly. Truly a remarkable criminal lawyer and person!
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11 Jan, 2025 by Christopher minsk
I had the pleasure of working with Attorney Jeff Dean during a very challenging time. Jeff is super smart and knows how the system works. Thanks to his expertise and hard work, we got an excellent outcome for my case. He also speaks Spanish which made it easier for me to understand everything. I cannot recommend him highly enough to anyone in need of a criminal lawyer.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Cody c loitz
Highly recommend Ryan and his team. Life saver!
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03 Dec, 2024 by J o
Ryan and the entire staff were incredible to work with - knowledgeable, professional, efficient and honest. I truly never thought I would need to hire an attorney, but working with Ryan made the entire legal process less overwhelming and stressful. He goes to bat for you, and is a phenomenal legal strategist. He’s also a compassionate attorney; he builds rapport with his clients and is an excellent communicator. If you find yourself needing legal counsel- you need Ryan on your team. He is a remarkable attorney. I highly recommend Ryan - he will fight for you.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Jenson wilkinson
Ryan Garry was an outstanding lawyer. He always took the time to answer my questions and respond to my messages. Thanks to his efforts, my felony charge was reduced to a misdemeanor with no jail time. I’m incredibly grateful to have had him as my attorney.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I reached out to Kelly regarding my wrongful conviction for domestic violence which was preventing me from owning/possessing a fire. If it wasn’t for my love of hunting specifically with my dad I probably would’ve gone on with my life but instead I explained my situation to Kelly, she sounded positive about restoring my rights. Took a few months but the wait paid off. I now have my conceal carry and the joy of being able to purchase weapons. More importantly I get to hunt with my dad without looking over my shoulder. Would recommend Kelly if you are in a similar situation situation hands down!!!
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06 Mar, 2024 by Richard
My experience with Kelly, who assisted me in restoring my right to possess firearms, was truly amazing. From the beginning, Kelly's professionalism & commitment to my case were evident. What stood out the most was her in-depth knowledge of firearm-related laws and regulations, which played a pivotal role in achieving a favorable outcome.
Throughout the process, Kelly demonstrated a keen understanding of the intricacies involved, ensuring that every legal avenue was explored to its fullest extent. Her attention to detail and thorough preparation set her apart, instilling confidence in me during what could have been a daunting ordeal.
However what set Kelly apart, was her willingness to go above and beyond expectations. She showed a genuine concern for my situation. She invested the time & effort needed to address any concerns or questions I had. This level of personal commitment made a significant impact on my overall experience.
In addition to her legal acumen, Kelly maintained clear and transparent communication, keeping me informed at every step of the process. This proactive approach not only fostered trust but also allowed me to actively participate and understand the progress of my case.
Ultimately, the successful restoration of my right to possess firearms can be attributed to Kelly's unwavering dedication & exemplary legal skills. I am immensely grateful for her outstanding service and would highly recommend her to anyone in need of assistance with a proven track record of achieving exceptional results.
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08 Jan, 2024 by Tai
Kelly is really good lawyer . I will recommend too all my friend if need help. She explain me clearly and help me goes throughly my case. The result was outstanding. Thanks you for all your help Kelly.
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26 Jan, 2018 by Pd
Carolyn Agin Schmidt……Thank you for representing me. Your integrity, professionalism, and ability to negotiate have proven to be a valuable asset in my case! Carolyn really helped me out by saving my career and livelihood. I will never forget what you have done for me and my family. Carolyn truly cares about the client!! I would refer you to anyone who is in trouble. She is a life saver.
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19 May, 2011 by Kristi
She got me the best deal on my charges anybody could ever ask for!!! Everytime I had a question she'd call me right back with an answer! She is very easy to work with but definetly not against!! She knows exactly what needs to be done on your part and in the court room to get you the outcome your striving for!! She is the BEST!!!
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02 Mar, 2011 by Cory
Carolyn Schmidt was more then i ever expected in a Lawyer. Very Professional, Knowledgeable, and Responsive. She always kept me very informed of what was going on with my case as well as my options. I felt more like she was my friend during my case as she really cared and it showed. I felt very comfortable calling her at anytime i had a question or concern. She still to this day gives me advise when i need it. I would highly recomend her to anyone which i have allready done for a friend who was also very very Happy with Carolyns Hard work and the results he ended up with.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Brandon
Christa is amazing and she coordinated me to work with Jessica Rugani a former prosecutor that works for the firm now. Jessica was detailed, precise, knowledgeable, and worked very well with the prosecutor in my case. I am thoroughly pleased with the outcome. Jessica did a great job communicating with me and helping me understand my case and helping me process the information.
I had a previous lawyer who really screwed up and I was not happy and Jessica and Christa took over my case and so I was very worried that I’d have a bad experience but everything they said they were going to do, they did. The outcome they said we were going to get, we got.
I’m very happy with results and I can’t Thank you enough!
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21 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
After many years in the family court system, I finally found an attorney that would best represent the needs and wishes of my children. The whole staff at Groshek law showed genuine interest in getting to know our case. Mrs. Groshek treated me and our children as individuals and I felt very included in all the decisions regarding our case. The whole team at Groshek Law were very responsive and always available for questions. There was no "guessing" when it came to fees or retainers. I know we would not be in the place we are now, if it wasn't for Christa's keen legal experience. I would and have recommended Groshek Law to family and friends and all the single mothers and fathers that need assistance navigating through the difficult legal process of the family court system.
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28 Oct, 2010 by Tim
Christa took my case I had and against all odds showed nothing but professionalism, intelligence, and down right rocked my case! My case was dismissed by her talents! Don't believe me? email me at [Email Address removed by Avvo]. I will say nothing but great things about Christa!!!
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03 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Marian is very knowledgeable and helped me keep the frustration and worry of the situation at bay. Just knowing she was In our corner and had all our best interests in mind made a difficult situation more tolerable. She is cognizant of all issues, including our financial wellbeing and does a great job explaining all the options for better or worse.
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05 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
I used Marian several years ago when going through my divorce. She was very knowledgeable and knew how to approach dealing with a narcissist which was a huge comfort for me while going through this difficult situation. Now that I have to go back and deal with issues again, I searched her out in her new firm and it settled my nerves immediately. I have recommended her to friends as well.
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26 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
She is the best!! Got the results I desired. At a reasonable price. Nice work.
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13 Jul, 2015 by James
Carolyn represented me a right before she took a job with the Federal Public Defenders Office. I was referred to her by the Child sex abuse and defense resource center in Cleveland. After she excepted the public defender job she turned me over to an associate she had worked with who also did a fantastic job. I had been falsly accused by my than 23 year old daughter. Four counts of criminal sexual mis-conduct in the first degree. After three years and turning down a plea for no jail time, I took it to a jury trial. It took a jury about an hour to find me not guilty on all 4 counts. I had two great lawyers. Carolyn in the beginning and her associate Nancy who took it over. I owe them both so much and can never thank them enough. I would give them both a 10 on a scale of 1 to 10.
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18 Jul, 2018 by Jeff hames
Experienced and professional!
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08 Jan, 2014 by Ryan s
Recently had a custody and child support battle with the mother of my nine year old daughter.
As biased as Minnesota Courts are against fathers, I went into this battle very discouraged already. Derk Schweiger was amazing in court, and I felt that because of his professional demeanor, articulateness, and sheer brilliance in court, the judge was able to see where I was coming from, and my life situation, my desire to better myself as a man, and my desire to be a father. The judgment was more than fair, and I was very happy that I chose Derk to be my lawyer. I have referred him to several people, and if need be, I will definitely call upon him again. He was professional, organized, clever, and not as expensive as other lawyers in the metro area.
Thanks again! -Ryan Wagner
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19 Jul, 2024 by Victoria nohl
I can’t recommend this firm enough! My lawyer, Melissa Heinlein, was extremely sharp, personable, and incredibly effective and responsive. You’ll absolutely want to have her on your side. Her staff was equally adept and kind. I am thrilled with the outcome of their dedicated work.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Terry baresh
Melissa Heinlein and her team of skilled and highly capable staff are our heros. Our daughter was severely injured by an uninsured driver while navigating a crosswalk. Our daughter survived and Lord + Heinlein provided her with legal protection and tremendous emotional support during the following months of medical treatment. Melissa’s guidance and hard work enabled our daughter and our family to focus on healing while her brilliant staff managed the complicated and overwhelming medical billing and all the legal filings. I couldn’t be more satisfied with the outcomes and with the thoughtful, intelligent care they provided. I highly recommend seeking out Lord + Heinlein to represent you and your loved ones.
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15 May, 2024 by Michael b. kalinowski
Melissa Heinlein was kind enough to answer a specific question I had regarding a legal matter. She was thorough and provided exceptional legal advise. I would recommend her to anyone.
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20 Jan, 2019 by Diane
I recently had my Will completed by Ron Walters of Willwright Estate Planning. I found Ron to be professional & knowledgeable & was so impressed that he also was willing to give me advice & help me resolve another legal issue that arose right after my will was complete. He has streamlined his process to minimize how much he bills his clients & provides a choice of several locations to meet with him which is convenient. Ron is easy to communicate with, takes extra care to ensure that you understand the process, & is ethical. His focus is to provide quality service at an affordable price. I would recommend him to a friend.
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22 Dec, 2017 by Becky
Ron was very professional, yet personable, and explained all documents to my satisfaction. He also offered guidance as to alternate documents that could be used. I would recommend Ron to assist in your estate planning.
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14 Dec, 2017 by Bp
Ron was great to work with. I especially appreciated how patient he was with all of our questions. I highly recommend Ron!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Ariela cortes
I recommend this Law Firm. Krista made our process smooth and communication was great. She was very clear with any questions I had. Thank you.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Rojo morales
Ustedes si me hicieron mucha ayuda pues la verdad trabajaron muy bien conmigo y todo me ayudaron, y ahorita igual terminado el caso me ayudan y todavia siguen siendo ustedes que me estan ayudando cualquier cosa. Usted Eliana siempre esta pendiente de mi, de nosotros, y eso es lo bueno pues. De hecho antes yo tuve otro abogado y su gente de ellos casi no trabajan pero eso si usted y Matias siempre los otros no trabajaban como ustedes. Yo lo que digo es que usted si ha trabajado bien, a veces uno quiere que alguien le conteste y luego ya rapido ustedes dos contestan. Yo voy a pasar las fiestas con mi hermano aqui el cocinara pozole, espero que ustedes pasen bien.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Jaime duran
Muchas gracias a la abogada arleth por el éxito tan rápido en mi caso al igual estubieron ayudándome Néstor y Matías la vdd son un equipo muy bueno y con una calides humana inmejorable que dios bendiga a ellos y su firma gracia
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13 Jan, 2025 by Brittny malec
Tim was professional and kind. He helped me with my legal situation in a way that was easy for me to understand and provided the best possible outcome for me. I will be forever grateful for his service and would highly recommend him!
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08 Jan, 2025 by Andres gomez
HANDS DOWN - Best lawyer ever - above and beyond
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07 Jan, 2025 by Aaron mcguire
I highly recommend Tim Phillips for his professionalism, expertise, and well-preparedness. He was an excellent representative and very generous with his knowledge and time. He put me at ease and gave me confidence as we walked through the legal process together. I was very glad about the outcome and I'm very thankful for Tim.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Mvw
I don’t know how to start this review without feeling overwhelmed with gratitude for this law firm - more specifically Ashwin, Zane & Ashley - The Power Trio!
My case took a total of 4 years and 4 months from start to finish and let me tell you… it was a very long process. Especially when my case was initiated when the entire world was shut down.
Initially, I didn’t think anything was happening and communication was limited. But when I realized that they are one attorney to me and I am one of many clients to them - I learned to trust the process and learned PATIENCE.
This team is meticulous, and when you feel like nothing is moving forward - trust me - it is!! Zane is so detailed and thorough with all of his filings, he makes sure that every single “i” is dotted and every single “t” is crossed. They leave no room for errors. Then there’s Ashley, she is THE sweetest lady that you will ever have the pleasure of dealing with. She is empathetic, and reassuring and knows no strangers as she treats you like a long lost family member!! Then there’s Ashwin, as a former US Marine, you will sleep well knowing that he’s fighting for your best interests.
Together, these three individuals worked their butts off to represent me against TRUE GIANTS and WE WON!
You will not be disappointed by choosing Madia Law as your attorney’s.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Shannon miller
I recently worked with Ashwin Madia and his team from Madia Law LLC, and I would highly recommend him if your in need of an attorney. I've worked with several lawyers over the past 10 years, and Ashwin demonstrated an exceptional level of intelligence and professionalism that sets him apart from the rest. I was impressed with and appreciated his honesty, integrity and commitment to preparation. I have great respect for Ashwin and am confident in recommending him as one of the absolute best attorneys you could hope to have.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Michael sanborn
Barbara and Kari are extremely knowledgeable, ethical and assertive. Their representation is by far the best. From the minute I sat with them I felt safe and cared for. They delivered!
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23 Jan, 2025 by Edison danilo vega zagal
23 Jan, 2025 by Adriana lemieux
wilson law group did a great job in my God daughter’s immigration journey. First with family law services and later as an imigrante in the us.
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13 Jan, 2025 by Nur hussen
21 Dec, 2024 by Omar sheikh
29 Nov, 2024 by Yare garaad
18 Nov, 2024 by Walter moreno
Muy honestos y muy profecionales son los mejores en el estado de Minnesota, sin duda alguna les recomiendo con la comunidad Hispana, y todas las personas que me pregunta si se de un buen abogado si Anderson & Anderson los mejores
muchas gracias abogado Thomas , Oriana por su ayuda la verdad estoy muy agradecida y feliz con los resultados.
Bendiciones para ustedes y todo su equipo los mejores exitos .
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24 Dec, 2024 by Michael steffer
The team at Groshek law is unmatched. Highly recommended lawfirm that delivers.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Len onorson
Awful. No communication, No listening, they talk a big game to get you on board and that’s when it falls apart. By and large, they don’t care what the case is. They just want your money.
Mary R was what nightmares are made of when it comes to attorneys. She had zero understanding, refused to communicate, charged me for doing nothing, and I’m unfortunately left with no other option to report not only to my Att Gen but also the Office of Prof Resp.
Bill padding for doing nothing and horrible treatment with zero communication- I will not let this go, I will see this through. Not acceptable at all.
The unprofessional actions of one attorney could end up being a messy situation for the entire firm.
So unprofessional, absolutely the worst experience of my life
They will claim not to know me, but they do
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17 Sep, 2024 by Jacob k
I wanted them to work with my original lawyer. They told him not to show up and then every time I asked why they didn't know anything about the case, Aaron would reply that that was expected because they came in halfway through. Funny they charged me the full amount for half a job.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Mina
He is awesome!! Did such an amazing job. Handled the case professionally, and in a timely matter. I would always recommend him hands down.
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26 Jan, 2023 by Haley b
Dan has represented me for 2 DUI cases. I couldn't thank him enough for helping me through everything. He was great at communicating to me exactly what was going on and what we were looking at in terms of consequences. He saved me from doing any jail time and got me off with just an ankle monitor. Honestly, I could not be any happier with my results and wouldn't have been able to do any of this without him. I would recommend him to anyone needing an attorney.
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02 Aug, 2022 by Dion
I was facing a lot of time for a felony dui, I contacted Dan, was great with communication, very reasonable with the cost and most of all he fought for me and honestly he treated me as a friend and not just a client. I have recommended Dan and will continue to recommend him!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
If you want an attorney that doesn't do anything that you want and wastes a ton of time doing it, then billing you for it....this is your guy. Very weak in motivation to actually put effort into a case. Good luck!
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25 Jun, 2024 by Pascal
I hired Steven Coon because I have been in a deportation situation since I was accused to brakes the OFP of the mother of my children.
After four years of fight in court, Steven has been able to prove that I wasn’t an abusive person and that the mother of my kids didn’t need an OFP.
Steven had always give me right recommendations and take the time for my case.
He has been able to direct me to the right person that I need like anger manager and immigration attorney.
I definitely recommend Steven Coon if you need any help and good advice from a criminal attorney.
Good job and thank you Steven
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23 Aug, 2023 by Alec
Mr Coon was good enough for my situation. He counseled , predicted, and then executed. My case was pretty much straight forward. He gave me worst case scenarios, and what it would look like if everything just worked in my favor. Which ended up working all in my favor.
The only thing that I can say that I didn’t like was the communication. I have yet to meet this bright lawyer in person, but he did what he said he was going to do and I appreciate him
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13 Nov, 2024 by Patience kimber
26 Sep, 2024 by Bety guzman gomez
27 Aug, 2024 by Julie hyland
They did great for me
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13 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
During my case, Ben was very thourough and maintained the best possible outcome. I couldn't have been more satisfied.
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11 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Did not do him homework. Many motions he should have filed but did not. I feel once he got my money he stopped working for me.
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24 Mar, 2011 by Brittany
Ben is a caring and supportive individual. He always let me know what to expect next and was extremely realistic and up-front. His price is very reasonable, and there are no hidden prices or surprises at the end. I would highly recommend working with Ben- he will take care of you, and he will not waste your time.
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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.
