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Christopher Karlen, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 217 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,82
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
4.4
13 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
204 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Jan, 2025 by Conservative action alliance
Charley, was great to work with. He really helped me navigate the divorce process. We had quite a custody battle for my daughter. But in the end I received 50% custody. My daughter and I are enjoying life. Thx to Grant Miller.
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star star star star star
13 Dec, 2024 by Gina reed
Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Dec, 2024 by Justin moody
Laura was awesome very respectful and resourceful.
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William Courtney Ernst Goldstein, experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 13 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,40
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
13 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I had servers probation violations and was getting know where in live besides inside jails and prisons. The judge had enough of me a order a fugitive warrant. I ended calling serval lawyers that said to turn yourself in and I couldn’t help you with the case. I thought for sure I would end up back in prison and when I get out return into my old habits. Then I called Will he said he could help me and he 100 percent did. He saved my life I fixed going back to my old ways and he got the warrant taken care of. Where I didn’t have to see a day in jail nor start my probation over. I followed his advice and it changed my life for the better. If your looking for an attorney don’t look no further, Will is the person to contact because he’s not only a attorney he’s a person who cares about what happens to his clients. Thank you Will
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02 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Goldstein is one of the best lawyers I have ever had the pleasure to deal with. It was the worse situation I could have on my record and would result in termination of my employment. I am a very honest person which made his job more difficult when we went to court. I don't know how, but he was able to save my job due to an over site he found in the case. If you need a great attorney, Will Goldstien is your guy. I couldn't thank him enough. I know what lawyer I will use if I ever need one again. Thanks Again!!!
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10 Apr, 2018 by Mary
Mr Goldstein is hands down the best attorney! He treats everyone with kindness and respect. He is thorough, professional and a awesome advocate. He tirelessly worked to get the best settlement sending it back multiple times until I was satisfied...Thank You-Mary
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Jolene April Taaffe, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 112 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
36,14
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
111 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Feb, 2025 by Clint
Mr. Arunski has represented me twice. And twice he has gotten me a much better deal than I would have without him. And something that many attorneys will not let you do he allowed me to make payments. That is something he does not have to do and I don't think he does it just to get the case I think he truly cares about the little guy
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21 Feb, 2025 by Claudia ceaser
From day one Brian promised that he would fight for us. He asked for us to give him 30 days and in 30 days everything was solved. We took a risk by hiring a lawyer while living in a different state and we don’t regret it. We will forever be grateful for the way he poured into our family! If you want a reliable lawyer get Brian he is upfront and honest. Brian is the truth!!!!! Thank you for everything
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06 Feb, 2025 by Lacey singhurse
After my attorney that I normally use decided my case wasn’t worth his time, I was lucky to have Brian step in and take care of it with no questions asked. Very lucky to have found him
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N. Kimasa Sindel, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 99 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,15
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
99 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Oct, 2024 by Alex long
I cannot say enough good things about Ryan and his team. Ryan and Tanner helped me through a complex business litigation matter involving a difficult shareholder dispute over the ownership of a company. The attorneys at Keane Law are very knowledgeable and had my best interest in mind throughout the process. I have dealt with other attorneys in the past, and not had this experience. They are professional, direct and fair.
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star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by Rick hansard
Keane Law did a great job handling my legal matter. The team was very thorough and met all of my expectations. They were dedicated and knowledgeable of the law. They provided timely updates on the case and the communication was greatly appreciated! I would use this firm again if needed and highly recommend them to others.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Stanford coleman
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Karen Pittman-Pace, experienced Adoption, Child Support attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 4 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2022 by Orlandoluis
I hired attorney Karen Pittman-Pace for an entire year. It was a very complicated civil case. It was connected to another criminal case in another MO county. The Father was being denied access to his Baby. At first, it seemed impossible to get anything at court. But Pittman-Pace managed to win the case step by step, until Father and Baby were finally back together and happy. The whole family is now healing. Justice has been rightfully served in both civil and criminal courts. In addition, the Judge granted an Order of Protection and a Temporary Restraining Order in my favor, thanks to the work of Pittman-Pace. I highly recommend Karen Pittman-Pace, an experienced and innovative attorney that will fight for your legal and human rights even if you are about to give up. She represents justice and hope. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
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10 Apr, 2021 by Carolyn
Mrs Karen Pittman-Pace is a hard worker. I don't know when she ever find time to sleep. She returns calls and emails in a timely fashion. Her communication skills are excellent. She took on my case and my sons case in family court with compassion and professionalism. I was completely stressed out and felt helpless until she took over our cases. Just knowing that she was trustworthy helped with my anxiety and panic attacks during trial. Most importantly she was respectful. As the victim, that meant a lot to me. If you need an attorney that takes on your situation as if they've lived it then Mrs. Karen Pittman-Pace is the attorney for you. She helped my son and I both win our cases. Job well done and money well spent. You get what you pay for.
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20 Jan, 2021 by Julie
Karen Pittman Pace came highly recommended to me several years ago. Karen is extremely knowledgeable in the “family law” arena and knows the business like no other. She is tough - a fighter, persistent, brilliant and everything in between. And she always goes above and beyond to win for her clients. I would recommend Ms. Pittman Pace to anyone looking for exceptional legal representation in the St. Louis area.
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Jillian Alejandra Wood, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 23 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,55
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
4.2
14 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
9 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Aug, 2024 by Jackie bee
Jillian Wood was a great attorney. My case had been in court for three years with no end in sight for a simple parenting plan modification that should have been resolved fairly easily. Jillian stepped in and had it handled professionally and accurately. Everything came out fair in the end and in order to have that done, you need good representation. Before Jillian, I had two attorneys and never knew what good representation was; they took all my money and did nothing for me. Jillian is affordable, easy to work with, and very understanding; she is knowledgeable about family law and knows how to get a case resolved. Jillian knew what she was doing in the courtroom when it didn’t seem like the other attorneys did. Highly recommend!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Mars f
Let me just say, the reviews are correct. She is patient and very knowledgeable. She does not make you feel rushed. She lays out the system and is very very realistic. Thank you Attorney Wood!
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27 Mar, 2024 by Robert glasscock
Ms Wood is an awesome family attorney you won't be disappointed
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Anna Callan Moench, experienced Car Accident, Civil Rights attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 191 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,11
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
191 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Feb, 2025 by Charlie bongner
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Feb, 2025 by Dakota thevel
They are awesome! Todd has represented me on multiple traffic violations over the years. Jenn, his paralegal is the best! It’s as easy as sending a text with the citation, and sending over a quick Venmo. They do the rest!
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27 Feb, 2025 by Tommy siam
Suggest you don't hire this guy unless you enjoy missed court dates, endless continuances, a suspended drivers license, arrest warrants put out on you, massive disruptions to your life, and your own attorney lying to you. I got a speeding ticket in Maryland Heights and hired Todd to have it amended to a non-moving violation. He was able to make a deal with the prosecutor for me to take a driver education course, which I did, and pay a fine. I was okay with this; it was a good deal. But instead of just giving me the signed plea form and letting me pay the fine afterwards, he suddenly decided that he could "get a better deal" for me in St. Louis County Court, whatever that means. So he set up another court date and then asked for continuances FIVE times after that. His client communication is extremely poor; I had to insist he tell me why he wanted to change it to county court after the deal was already made, and after that he never told me why he was requesting so many continuances, not a single time. I ended up having to follow my own freaking case on Missouri Casenet because he just flat-out didn't talk to me. Then my latest court date came and went and he didn't show, so they put out an arrest warrant on me this past Monday and suspended my license. I was LIVID. I have a very stressful workload at my day job and have to care for my elderly mother, so driving is simply not optional. I have to be able to do it. I spent the better part of this past Monday looking for potential alternative representation, arguing with Todd and getting him to send me the signed plea deal, which was like extracting teeth, and then going in to pay it. I NEEDED TO BE AT WORK AND I DON'T HAVE TIME FOR THIS. I also had to ask my partner to disrupt her life to take me to pay the fine because I technically couldn't drive. Then Todd decided to blow smoke up my rear end and leave a voice mail telling me that I had this document all along since last summer. I searched my email and their client portal, and they had never sent it to me before this Monday, never instructed me to take the signed form to the court to make payment. YOU CAN'T LIE ABOUT WHAT IS IN EMAIL, Todd. It was unfair and unjust for my own attorney to deny me fair and timely resolution to my case. Perhaps if he spent more time actually working on his clients' cases instead of looking for ways to artificially inflate his Google Maps rating, things might not turn out like this for his clients. I would give Todd Mandel a thousand negative stars if that were an option.
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Kathryn Bertel Parish, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 98 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,35
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
98 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Feb, 2025 by Charles beabout
Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2025 by Kristina travis
Beyond impressed with the hard work , dedication and wisdom of Mr.Mueller. He truly sees his clients as client and cares and puts his all into every case he's handled for us.Easy to stay in contact with, keeps us informed and thoroughly explains things.highly highly recommend!!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Taylor greenfield
Amazing representation.. kept in a great contact..
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Peter Michael Cohen, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 15 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,27
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
15 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Sep, 2024 by Christopher sample
Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Jan, 2024 by Tammi clemons
I’ve been going to Mr Peter since I was a teenager.. I’m 30! and he’s great at what he does, one of the best lawyers!
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star star star star star
14 Dec, 2022 by Jason gibson
Peter is a good lawyer
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Hope Elizabeth Whitehead, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 44 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,81
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
44 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2024 by Gia diorr
Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jun, 2024 by Simon uchitel
Mr. Gubin represented us in a complex Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Always willing to make time for us, attentive to detail, with a personable demeanor, he found solutions to challenging issues specific to our case.
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star star star star star
06 Apr, 2024 by Sharon stecher
Very helpful
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Con Curran Coulter, experienced Adoption, Appeals attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 122 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,29
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
122 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Dec, 2024 by Maddalyn mansfield
i attempted for weeks and weeks to get an initial appointment set up or even a call back with no luck, and we ultimately ended up going with someone else. we had really high hopes about him and are very disappointed we never even got the chance to speak to him. the woman who answers calls at the office is extremely snobby. the only response i ever got was "if he has time and feels like it he will give you a call" she had such a nasty attitude and it seems like she expected us to beg for an appointment. whenever you are willing and ready to hand someone almost twenty thousand dollars you would expect them to be eager too do their job, apparently not.
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star star star star star
18 Nov, 2024 by James jablonski
Travis is the tuffest lawyer on the seen. He does exactly what he says he will. Trust and believe that.
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star star star star star
20 Oct, 2024 by Anaya moore
This man helped me get my license back while it was suspended in no time give him a call
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Mary Elizabeth Davidson, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 15 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
22,96
star star star star star
3.8/5
Google Maps
3.8
15 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jun, 2022 by Renee carter
I had no idea what to expect during my Adoption process, yet Joan assured me that she would be there every step of the way; and she was! The adoption of my little ones took longer than normal due to the COVID pandemic and court closures and postponements, yet Joan kept me abreast of any and all updates. She returned my call and answered my emails promptly and didn't mind me calling her on her personal cell, number which she provided. I am very thankful that I chose her law firm to represent me during my Adoption processes. Official New Mom!🙂
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09 Jul, 2019 by Colette hosie
Dependable, knowledgeable and honest. Joan helped me through a difficult divorce. There was no case law in MO to support my financial position. Despite the challenges Joan provided guidance and found data and resources to support my position. Ultimately the courts rules in our favor. I’m grateful to Joan for her efforts and expertise.
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09 Jul, 2019 by Margaret schramm
Joan and I worked together on a recent case. Joan showed a thorough knowledge of domestic relations law and advocated zealously for her client to obtain a successful result. I strongly recommend Joan.
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Simone A. Haberstock, experienced Adoption, Family Law attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 73 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,41
star star star star star
3.4/5
Avvo
4.4
5 Reviews
Google Maps
3.3
68 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Jan, 2025 by Brian wright
If you need a glorified legal secretary who can find the courthouse and file paperwork, Bob is your guy. If you need a competent, hard-nosed family attorney to fight for you and what you hold dearest, stay a hundred miles away and pray he’s the opposing counsel. So ill-prepared for my support modification trial. I was prepared. Opposing counsel was prepared. Judge was prepared. What about Bob? Constantly scrambling for notes and fumbling for words. Oddly timed and worded objections. Horrible report with the judge. Outcome was shockingly one-sided and one of the worst judgements in the history of the St. Louis family court system. Use anyone else to fight and protect your rights. You can only do better.
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star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by Derek dees
After some time and hard work John was able to get the results I wanted. Thanks Fen.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Liz ——
This “attorney” is a joke. More like lazy jerk who just does gimme landlord tenant actions. He doesn’t practice law. He collects bad debt for apartment complexes-and he’s lazy and inept. Glad he found a cash flow. Hope the laws don’t update and ruin his game. Would put no stars, but that isn’t an option. Not as if this matters-his clientele are all word of mouth apartment complexes-he doesn’t work for actual people or on their behalf.
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Sarah K. Wilde, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 3 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,13
star star star star star
2.3/5
Avvo
2.3
3 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Ms. Wilde won't call you back, no matter how many voicemails left. If you want an attorney that will fight for you Ms Wilde is not the attorney for you
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30 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Sarah is a great attorney, you can tell Sarah puts in the necessary time, and effort with each and every client. Sarah made my legal needs a simple, easy process. She not only made me feel comfortable in the legal process, but also made me feel confident I was being represented well. If you need a good attorney for any family law needs- this is the place to go!
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07 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I would not hire this lawyer again in any kind of matter. I hired Ms Wilde for a civil matter and she provided hardly any guidance, refused to return calls and communications, didnt file any motions to protect me, allowed the opposing party to trample all over me because she didnt send over pertinant information to me about my case..etc. Ultimately she just took my money. This is not how you build a law firm.
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Laura Kathryn O'Leary, experienced Juvenile Law, Litigation attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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David Gerard Ott, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Pamela Kay Johnson, experienced Criminal Defense, Juvenile Law attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Wesley Ryan Allen, experienced Criminal Defense, Debt Collection attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Maylin Wong Mahoney, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Kevin Jameson Cordia, experienced Adoption, Child Support attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Margaret Anne Robben Smith, experienced Appeals, Child Support attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Teresa Marie Coyle, experienced Car Accident, Child Support attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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David Allyn Shaller, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Stephen Joseph Nangle, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Saint Louis, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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