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19 Dec, 2023 by Danny giunto
16 Nov, 2021 by Gerna isley
A great attorney, love Mr Ward!
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14 Mar, 2021 by Tyrone millhouse ii
Number to find in terms of location and very friendly staff. The Attorney himself is great!
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11 May, 2024 by Christle rose
Norm and Elizabeth are two of the most caring and ethical people I have ever known. Their dedication to their clients is the best you will ever know! They know their stuff and will give it to you straight. 10/10
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04 Mar, 2023 by Sandy davis
They are very kind, helpful and accommodating. Very pleasant atmosphere
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01 Jun, 2022 by Tyler braddoock
06 May, 2024 by Sheila leyes
WORTH EVERY PENNY!!! Especially for divorce cases.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Daniel martin
03 Jul, 2023 by Sparta logistics inc
04 Nov, 2023 by Brooke akers
If I could give 0 stars, I would. I am in a wheelchair, fighting for custody of my child. I dropped $3,000 on this lawyer just for him to never return my calls, never answer, doesn’t call before court, is never prepared for court, but charges an arm & a leg. He has been on my case for 4 months & done absolutely nothing. He is too busy with his other cases to put the same amount of due diligence and care in each case. He will put you on the back burner for his more high profile cases. I feel like I have a public defender, not a paid lawyer. I’m a single mom in a wheelchair, I could’ve very well used my $3,000 on something else!
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07 Feb, 2023 by John smith
This attorney will bleed you dry with minimal results at best . I'd like to think that he doesn't "drop the ball" on every client but then again his track record is proving otherwise.
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03 Feb, 2023 by Martha gatton
Joe and his team are the best! Can't thank you enough for being you!
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12 Jan, 2025 by Taylor v
James LaPolla is awesome to work with! He wrote up a contract for our photography/videography business and we are very pleased with it. Great guy and highly recommend!
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25 Jul, 2023 by Jennifer drvodelic
Atty Lapollo was so nice and kind to my mom and took care of her legal paper work that needed done in a timely matter. Great guy
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14 Oct, 2021 by Nate
I would recommend them to my worst enemy.
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25 Feb, 2025 by K v
Phenominal,no nonsense approach. Highly recommend his services.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Amber johnson
I’ve had a handful of Attorneys when it comes to family law and Lynda is hands down the best. She is so available and communicative, it’s so easy to get a hold of her when you need her. Her office staff are friendly and professional. She knows the law front to back and is extremely organized and detail oriented. But above all, she conducts herself ethically and with the utmost integrity. She truly cares about you, and doing what is best for your child. She will set realistic expectations and be honest with you, but will work hard on your behalf. I am so grateful to Lynda. She is an amazing Attorney and person.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Greg b
01 Jan, 2025 by John hartman
15 Nov, 2024 by Ashley prem
02 Aug, 2024 by Allen jones
19 Dec, 2024 by James kinser
Mr. Gemelas worked rapidly on my case. He obtained a settlement that I was extremly happy with considering the situation. His staff was always pleasant to work with. I would recommend Mr. Gemelas' firm to anyone seeking representation.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Brad sword
Completely rude staff and hung up on me while I was talking after they started arguing with me
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13 Nov, 2024 by Alex alexander
Douglas and John have done great work for me.
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03 Nov, 2024 by Thomas ramey
Very professional group explaining to the detail of my land purchase. They have been very responsive to any questions that I had concerns of. I'm looking forward to finish my purchase through there firm. Everyone I have had contact with have had great positive attitudes and extremely polite.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Jay
15 Sep, 2024 by P kelly
Kayla helped me with my will and was very patient and listened to all my concerns about family issues. She is very honest and also helped me set up a trust for my pets. I highly recommend her.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
Terrible attorney told me the other side did not have a case and theres no way they would get anything they were asking for. I have him more than enough evidence and facts and told me we didnt need any of it. Came to court where he had multiple names and stories messed up and kept tripping on his words. It was really embarrassing. Dont waste your time or money.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Amanda bennett
So easy to work with to set up our wills & POA
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09 Aug, 2024 by Mark morehart
Faye Cox and her team are easy to work with!
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22 Nov, 2024 by Paul brown
Bob is a great lawyer, I called him up and hired him and he was able to get my charges changed, and was very helpful as well as I never had any problems trying to contact him. Great guy, would definitely recommend
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04 Jun, 2024 by Joe bauer
Mr. Huffman is the best.
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27 Jul, 2023 by Jeanne huffman
She's awesome! I recommend her highly.
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16 Mar, 2024 by Joshua neumeier
The best decision I ever made was asking Roof Law and Andrew to fight for me in my divorce case. Extremely satisfied with how well I was represented and the eventual outcome. The staff is amazing. My only regret is google only allows me to leave 5 stars…thank you Andrew and Roof Law. My life and my son’s life are so much better off because we chose you to handle the divorce. My highest recommendation!
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21 Feb, 2024 by Aaron clemans
Do not use Andrew Benchic if you are going against Amy Lambdin. He completely folded against her. My wife lost her custody case for both of her sons she's had their entire life. He knew their father was supplying them marijuana and we had failed urine screens to prove it. He continuously forgot that we had a third child at home, their brother, and didn't make their dad show proof of income when figuring child support. Since losing custody, both boys have had truency charges from school and my 16 year old has been suspended 6 times for having vapes in school, that his dad is supplying. Andrew tried to pit my wife and I against each other and used intimidating tactics towards my wife when she wanted to go in front of the judge. He also kept telling us what we are "in it for the long haul" when it comes to our son's relationship with us. Well Andrew... Yes we are and now they have court cases themselves and are both failing in school and one is almost expelled! Waste of money. We walked in the door for ROOF law not Benchic.... We could have had better results representing ourselves.
On top of that there were child abuse ALLEGATIONS from the defense with zero proof and he was completely scared about it and wouldn't fight for us. Those children have never been abused, they were COACHED to say that, and you completely folded against Amy like you owed her a favor. Our son's lives will forever be shaped because you didn't do your job.
My Wife agreed with the outcome because Andrew didn't give her a choice. He said that is the "Best" outcome he could get and it would be worse if we went in front of the judge. Truth of the matter is, we could have got exactly the same outcome or better if we just represented ourselves. We got the bare minimum required by the state of Ohio and are paying over what we should be for child support. If I could leave zero stars I absolutely would.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Andrew benchic
03 Jul, 2024 by Bannerman associates
I don’t usually posts review in anger, but this company took me for a loop. They will bill you for work they don’t even complete. Overall I had a bad experience with them and I hope you learn from my mistake.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Shy synful
23 Dec, 2023 by Jaymie mitchell
Very professional and informative of all our options and possible outcomes related to my son's custody case. They were able to get him full custody. Very happy we chose them to represent him.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Mark harler
23 Jan, 2024 by Stacy rose
04 Dec, 2023 by Lamar gaskins
Thank you for all your help Dan at the time needed!!
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04 Nov, 2023 by Brooke akers
If I could give 0 stars, I would. I am in a wheelchair, fighting for custody of my child. I dropped $3,000 on this lawyer just for him to never return my calls, never answer, doesn’t call before court, is never prepared for court, but charges an arm & a leg. He has been on my case for 4 months & done absolutely nothing. He is too busy with his other cases to put the same amount of due diligence and care in each case. He will put you on the back burner for his more high profile cases. I feel like I have a public defender, not a paid lawyer. I’m a single mom in a wheelchair, I could’ve very well used my $3,000 on something else!
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07 Feb, 2023 by John smith
This attorney will bleed you dry with minimal results at best . I'd like to think that he doesn't "drop the ball" on every client but then again his track record is proving otherwise.
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03 Feb, 2023 by Martha gatton
Joe and his team are the best! Can't thank you enough for being you!
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11 Dec, 2020 by Brooke miller
12 Dec, 2019 by Shaun pollock
08 Sep, 2019 by Sons of740
My court appointed attorney Ashley Hawkins/Swartz, In my opinion has done ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to help me regarding my court case. She has tried to convince me to waive my right to a speedy trial(which is exactly what the prosecutor wanted me to do), She rarely returns my phone calls, filed no objections when TWO Marion County Sheriff's deputies gave conflicting statements(under oath), She had NO IDEA what the maximum sentence for my charge was(She ARGUED with me about it, saying that I was facing 6months in jail when in reality it carries a maximum sentence of 30 days), She would call me from her cell phone..but then complained and filed to withdraw from being my attorney when I called her back at the same number.( I'm beginning to think that my case is her first one), I have done more legwork and legal research on my case than she has.! My right to a speedy trial states that for an M4 misdemeanor my case be finished within 90days.. However, It has now been 6 MONTHS and I STILL have No final court date set. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND THIS ATTORNEY TO ANYONE.! In my opinion, Attorney Ashley Hawkins/Swartz should go back to her previous career at Walmart.!
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02 Mar, 2023 by Joseph
Gene its the real deal. He's very respected and that goes a long way. Make sure you do everything you can to better yourself. We all have to work hard when we fail.
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03 May, 2022 by Devon
this man took my money then sold me out in court 1 went to court didn't call the morning of or night before to prep me 2 i get a call saying I'm late from court I get there everyone is there my lawyer pulls my in the hallway after we already discussed going to trail tells me I'm nobody and Hes not taking a case to trial he will lose but I didn't do it honestly. then puts his hand on my shoulder after he broke me down walks me ion the court room says let me fix this with the bailiff standing behind me causing panic and fear making take a plea after i take the plea .the judge still sends me to jail for 3 days idk for being late to make sure I don't talk I'm not sure it worked for years but that time is up I did three days in jail for misconduct in the court room .I stood there crying not sure what I did lol .now i have to study how to file for ineffective counsel ..my advice do your best to find someone that cars about you and make sure he meets with you after taking your money and its not just at the court room
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04 Jan, 2022 by Country
He “Helped” in My OVI Case barley. Won’t answer or return my calls to give me my legal evidence I’m owed. I’m filing a lawsuit for my case as well just not with him as a lawyer since he made me plea to no contest without consulting with me first I paid him 2500$ up front and he didn’t even try to take my case to trial and the judge made me server days in jail with 3 years probabtion and 5 years license suspension. With 1,200$ court fines and also for the coup de gras 3 years for interlock in my car if I pay 650$ plus whatever in reinstatement fees like. Can someone explain to me what did I pay him for?
Just know I am no threat but my family is hurt by the systems judgement over petty cases takings serious chargers while the real offenders are overlooked. All I’m saying my case should’ve been fought for instead of treated like another number to file on your taxes.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Tom burton
15 Jul, 2024 by Susanna white
Was not able to represent me in my case but did spend time with me on the phone to help me find someone who could help me, very kind & wished me the best
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15 Jul, 2024 by Jessica copp
Very rude man.. Just called to ask if my issue was something worth pursuing before I went any further. He talked over me and I couldn't even explain my situation. I do not recommend going here/contacting this man.
In response to his comment.. if he had listened to my situation and said yes, you have a case worth looking into. I would have gladly set up an appointment. He immediately assumed I wanted a consultation over the phone. By the way, I did reach out to a firm who listened, and now I have an appointment coming up for them to look into it further. I wish you the best of luck.
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17 Dec, 2019 by Courtney ashcraft
28 May, 2019 by Cleadus ramey
28 Feb, 2018 by Misty
Darrin contacted me Everytime I needed him to. He did all the work all I had to do was explain to him my situation and he took care of the rest
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25 Feb, 2025 by K v
Phenominal,no nonsense approach. Highly recommend his services.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Laura twigg
Attorney Harvey Williams is just the right amount of professional and caring. She’s reasonable and understanding. She’s very intelligent and realistic. She’s tactful but also stern. I really felt a certain level of peace during a very stressful time when she represented me in my court case.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Hughes kay
Started off ok seemed like I could trust her fighting for me! The other party won which was the one of many reasons I paid a lawyer! Then charges were racked up and threw at me once the case was done and over and still billed me even sent me to collections! I don’t recommend a attorney of this nature they’ll tear you down in the long run smh!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Melinda hinesmon
Attorney Zambelli and his team were very helpful and professional with me concerning my lawsuit. They kept me informed about the progress of the case, and they did everything they said they would do. I am very satisfied with the outcome of my case. I will recommend this law firm to everyone I know. Thanks again for your support.
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10 Nov, 2024 by Alicia whitaker
16 Oct, 2024 by Cheryl slone
Not worth my time. What a joke! Still -1 for me!!! Rcvd call to advise it would be considered hope she calls me back!!!! Rude and upsetting!
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02 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
A few years ago I was facing a lot of charges ranging from minor misdemeanors to M1 misdemeanors and was looking at quite a bit of jail time and I was appointed Christina as my attorney. She did not seem to care much about my case and what I was going through. It was hard for me to even get in contact with her. She wanted me to take the first deal that was given to me, which was the worst charge of all, and pretty much said that I wasn't going to get anything better, but in the end I DID get a better deal that only ended up with some probation, but it was not cuz of what she did. So I do NOT recommend her as a defense attorney for criminal cases, she is better suited for "family" cases.
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14 Mar, 2016 by Sarah
Christina represented me during a 3 year custody case. Through the ups and downs not only was Christina there for my family and I legally but also there for us on a personal level as well. In the end the outcome was exactly what we had hoped for and I can't imagine having a better attorney or person, for that matter, to be by my side through the toughest time of my life. If you're looking for an attorney who not only excels at her job but who also shows compassion for her client, I highly recommend Christina McGill.
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14 Mar, 2016 by Dawn
My lawyer was always willing to answer any questions. She thoroughly explained what was happening in my case and consulted with me regularly.
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11 Aug, 2015 by Wayne
I have had the opportunity to work with many lawyers in the Dayton Ohio area, Marshall Lachman being one of those lawyers. I found Marshall to be dedicated, energetic, and persistent in assuring his clients have the best possible defense. Marshall is a very skilled trial lawyer and will not hesitate to go to trial. I would recommend him and place him on the top 10 list of capable trial lawyers in the area.
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13 Mar, 2012 by Jennifer
Mr. Lachman handled a divorce matter for me. He was very professional and trustworty. Would definitely recommend him to anyone needing a lawyer for a divorce.
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30 Dec, 2011 by Anonymous
Professional lawyer who got me a dismissal of my felony charge. Would definitely recomend him to anyone looking for a good responsible lawyer in Dayton.
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24 Jan, 2021 by Preston
Natalie Bahan is not out for your best interest, she is very disloyal to you. She will double bill, do things that you don't consent too. Shes only out to take your hard earned money!
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12 May, 2015 by Danny
Natalie Bahan was amazing to work with. She attacks your case and works hard to get you the best result. She is very compassionate and understands the impact the case has. I definitely recommend her.
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09 Apr, 2015 by Laurie
I absolutely recommend Natalie Bahan. She is straight forward and honest. I really appreciate that she embraces challenge and was not deterred from taking my case. She worked hard and got the desired result. I definitely recommend her.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Crystal bryant
I had the privilege of working with Attorney Spitzer during a particularly challenging legal matters, and I cannot speak highly enough of his expertise, professionalism, and dedication. From the very first conversation Attorney Spitzer took the time to fully understand the situation, answering all of our questions with patience and clarity.
What sets Attorney Spritzer apart is his strategic thinking and deep knowledge of the law. He was able to navigate complex legal issues with ease and kept us informed.
In addition to his legal prowess, Attorney Spritzer's communication skills are outstanding. He was always responsive and quick to address any concerns, ensuring that we were never left in the dark. The level of attention and care he gave exceeded all our expectations.
Thanks to Attorney Spritzer, the case was resolved favorably, and we are incredibly grateful for his hard work. If you're looking for an attorney who is not only highly skilled but also genuinely committed to achieving the best possible outcome for their clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Attorney Spritzer. He is a true asset to the legal profession.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Kurosh filsoofi
Joel, Megan, and Destini were beyond extremely helpful. And for a fair price. He's definitely the go to guy if you need a case handled!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Steven dailey
Exceptional and elite!!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Rick hoberty
16 Oct, 2024 by Tee hakim
BEST LAW OFFICE IN TOWN!
I was extremely impressed with Mr. Dennis Lieberman and this team. They provided exceptional legal representation and guidance throughout my case. Their knowledge, professionalism, and dedication were invaluable. They kept me informed every step of the way and were always available to answer my questions. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Atthis time
02 Feb, 2025 by Slick johnny
Took my money and didn’t fight for me. Told me he did more than he was paid to do.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Mindy meaney
I hired him in January for a case and signed the contract to file my case and NEVER did! I emailed and called…nothing! Yesterday sent me back 1/2 $ and withdrew from a case. That never started! What a joke, don’t waste time or $
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27 Dec, 2023 by Loca liisa
I was there with my friend. Had to wait out in waiting room. Loved the cat Stella. During the wait I heard him yell overtop of my friend as my friend was very upset. Also used profane language while speaking with my friend. As a lawyer I feel he broke the "code of ethics" and he is not knowledgeable of the case in question. To me, not a good lawyer. To each his/her own but I will never use him or offer his services instead will deter anyone I know who is seeking council.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Michel montvelisky
Our family worked with the Becker Law Firm to investigate the medical circumstances surrounding our father’s passing following heart surgery. During our first conversation, Romney Cullers explained the legal process, potential challenges, and possible outcomes of our case. Romney’s honesty and transparency was a determining factor in our decision to proceed with Becker Law - and indeed was a great introduction, reflective of our subsequent interaction with the rest of the firm’s staff.
Romney’s professional and thorough representation was invaluable, and ultimately led to a positive resolution of our case. Just as importantly, the kind guidance and patient assistance of everyone at the Becker Law Firm made the process easier on our entire family. For that, Becker deserves our deep gratitude and highest commendation.
We do not wish for any family to endure a loss similar to ours. However, we sincerely hope those who find themselves in that situation, can receive assistance like the one we found at the Becker Law Firm.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Jessika kronenberger
Attorney managing my cases left the firm. Now I have two ongoing cases with no support after reaching out, and was sent the bill. Little action was done on the cases prior as she said she would get to it-but never did- but now its starting to be too long after waiting several months, and now I have no POC. Do i need to find a new attorney? Will the things she said she would do get done? Feels like I'm just a client lost in the grey space.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Matt lafleur
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had an outstanding experience with McCarthy, Lebit, Crystal, and Liffman. Attorney Andrew P. was especially impressive—knowledgeable, responsive, and truly caring. He explained everything clearly and was the best advocate. I felt supported and confident throughout the entire process. Highly recommend this firm and Andrew specifically for anyone seeking excellent legal representation!
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04 Oct, 2023 by Jeff hawkins
So far very involved, and took my concerns into consideration
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28 Jun, 2023 by Marvin rhodes
Subpar Lawyer and Guardian Ad Litem. Laura Pendry tells false narratives and withholds truths. Laura Pendry has no integrity nor does she represent best interests. Laura makes assumptions rather then taking time to uncover facts. Laura demonstrates one-sidedness. This is my unbiased review, and just a few things I have experienced with Laura Pendry.
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01 May, 2023 by Jan mcclanahan
Was treated very good. Answered all my questions. Was very friendly. Would refer him to any of my family and friends.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Curtis green
08 Jul, 2024 by Daniel gearing
I wouldn't use him again told me it would cost 5000$ to go to trial for full custody of my daughter . 2 court dates"1-2hr" and a hearing over phone"1 hr" settled for joint custody and all 5000$ is gone.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer eitniear
if your looking for the absolute best attorney , that is well renown in all courtrooms as well as highly favored by our judges and magistrates , you have found "The Best" in the area and arena...
remember though , you get what you pay for and really his retainers are on par with other attorneys with less experience, and not so favored in courtrooms.
do yourself a favor and retain this guy!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Juvenile Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A juvenile law lawyer specializes in legal issues involving minors, including those facing criminal charges, child welfare matters, or status offenses (like truancy or curfew violations). Juvenile law lawyers aim to protect the rights of minors and advocate for rehabilitation rather than punishment in criminal cases. They also help families navigate child custody, abuse, neglect cases, and other legal matters involving children.
If your child is facing criminal charges, or you are involved in a child welfare case, a juvenile law lawyer can help protect your child’s rights and work toward the most favorable outcome.
When Should I Hire a Juvenile Law Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a juvenile law lawyer in the following situations where minors are involved in legal matters:
- Juvenile criminal charges: If your child is accused of a crime, such as theft, assault, or drug offenses, a juvenile lawyer can represent them in juvenile court, advocating for leniency and alternatives to detention.
- Delinquency proceedings: A lawyer can help navigate delinquency charges, defending your child’s rights and seeking rehabilitative outcomes like counseling, probation, or diversion programs instead of incarceration.
- Status offenses: If your child has committed a status offense, such as truancy, running away, or underage drinking, a lawyer can help you resolve these issues in juvenile court, often focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
- School disciplinary issues: If your child is facing school suspensions, expulsions, or other disciplinary actions, a lawyer can help protect their educational rights and challenge any unfair or unlawful school policies.
- Child protective services (CPS) investigations: If your family is being investigated by CPS for alleged abuse, neglect, or dependency, a lawyer can represent you and protect your child’s rights throughout the investigation.
- Custody disputes: A lawyer can help in cases involving child custody or guardianship disputes, ensuring the child’s best interests are prioritized and advocating for the child’s rights.
- Emancipation: If your child seeks legal emancipation from their parents or guardians, a lawyer can assist in navigating the legal process and help the child understand their rights and responsibilities.
Hiring a lawyer early in the legal process ensures that your child’s rights are protected and that the best possible outcomes are pursued.
What Does a Juvenile Law Lawyer Do?
A juvenile law lawyer provides various services to help minors and their families navigate the legal system. Their responsibilities often include:
- Representing minors in court: A lawyer will represent your child in juvenile court, advocating for their rights and seeking rehabilitative outcomes rather than punitive measures.
- Filing motions and legal paperwork: The lawyer handles all necessary legal filings, including petitions, responses, and motions to dismiss charges or suppress evidence.
- Negotiating with prosecutors: In some cases, a lawyer can negotiate plea deals or diversion programs that prevent the child from having a permanent criminal record or serving time in detention.
- Advising on rehabilitation programs: Juvenile law lawyers often focus on alternatives to incarceration, such as counseling, community service, or probation, helping minors avoid long-term legal consequences.
- Handling CPS and child welfare cases: If your family is involved in a CPS investigation or child welfare case, the lawyer can advocate for your child’s safety and well-being, ensuring that their rights are upheld.
- Defending minors against school discipline: A lawyer can help challenge unfair or excessive disciplinary actions taken by schools, ensuring that your child’s educational rights are protected.
- Advising families on legal options: A lawyer will explain the juvenile legal process to families, offering advice on the best legal strategies and what to expect during the case.
How Are Juvenile Law Lawyers Paid?
Juvenile law lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the time involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many juvenile law lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Flat fee: For simpler cases, such as status offenses or school disciplinary hearings, a lawyer may charge a flat fee that covers all legal services related to the case.
- Retainer: In more complex cases, such as defending against serious criminal charges or handling a long-term CPS investigation, a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment billed against as they work on the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some juvenile law lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or may provide pro bono (free) services for families who cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially in cases involving child welfare or delinquency.
Discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during your consultation to understand the total cost and payment options.
How Much Does a Juvenile Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a juvenile law lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the time involved. General cost estimates include:
- Juvenile criminal cases: Legal fees for defending a minor in juvenile criminal cases can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the severity of the charges and whether the case goes to trial.
- Status offenses: For cases involving minor offenses such as truancy or underage drinking, legal fees typically range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- CPS or child welfare cases: Legal fees for representing families in CPS investigations or child welfare cases can range from $2,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
- School disciplinary hearings: Legal fees for representing students in school-related issues may range from $1,000 to $3,500, depending on the legal work required.
Make sure to get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure you understand the full scope of fees and services.
Top Questions to Ask a Juvenile Law Lawyer
Before hiring a juvenile law lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your child’s case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with juvenile law cases?
Make sure the lawyer has handled cases similar to yours, whether it’s juvenile delinquency, child custody, or CPS investigations. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer. Ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my child’s case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of the case, including potential challenges and likely outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Juvenile cases can vary in duration, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors might affect the timeline. -
Will you personally handle my child’s case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing the case and representing your child in court. -
What rights does my child have?
Ask the lawyer to explain your child’s legal rights, including their rights during police questioning, school disciplinary actions, and court proceedings.
How to Check the Credibility of a Juvenile Law Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable juvenile law lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for juvenile law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in juvenile law and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate in juvenile cases.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on juvenile law matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for memberships in organizations like the National Juvenile Defender Center (NJDC) or certifications in juvenile law, which can indicate a lawyer’s dedication to representing minors.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a juvenile law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Court documents: Bring any legal documents related to your child’s case, such as summons, complaints, or court orders.
- School records: Provide any relevant school records, including disciplinary reports, attendance records, and communications from school officials.
- CPS or investigation reports: If your case involves child welfare, bring any reports or documentation from CPS or other investigating agencies.
- Timeline of events: Prepare a detailed timeline of events related to your child’s legal issue, including interactions with authorities or school officials.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the legal process, your child’s rights, and potential outcomes for the case.
Being well-prepared will help the lawyer assess your child’s situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your needs.
