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30 Sep, 2008 by Anonymous
Karl is an excellent attorney, when he's working on your case. However, he or his staff do not communicate with you...at all. My case was/is an uncontested child custody and step-parent adoption that has been going on for 2 years come January. I had to write a certified letter to his office to get any response. I am still waiting...at this rate, my son will be 18 and moved out of the house by the time this is over with. He was 12, he's now 14 and will be 15 in March.
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01 Aug, 2023 by Dalila clark
As said in the previous reviews, Mr. Vargas is rude. He seems to be all about the money. I was advocating for my fiancé, who is in TDC. Who was appointed Mr. Vargas during a case. Mr. Vargas refused to help. The only thing that Mr. Vargas did was ignore text messages and phone calls. He showed up one time to a court case. And did little to absolutely nothing besides show up to the courthouse. I was told by Mr. Vargas over the phone that he would help if I was willing to pay the $300 charge that he charges per hour. I offered to pay that $300 per hour; after offering, Mr. Vargas, then said absolutely no. “I don’t want to take your case. I have paying clients that I’m already assisting” Even though he was already a court appointed attorney on said case. Luckily, I was able to contact the court system. And have Mr. Vargas removed from the case. Yes, it took months for this to actually happen. But thank goodness he was removed. Mr. Vargas is a horrible man. He does not want to actually help his community. I do not understand why anyone gets involved in law if they are not passionate about speaking up against the law, For their clients.
Good riddance Vargas. You will not be missed.
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01 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I was court appointed this lawyer for a criminal case. Off the bat, I’ll say that his communication skills are horrendous. He does not return calls no matter how urgent the situation is. On one incident he showed up to court 5 hours late. He made absolutely no effort to speak with me about my case. The first two times that he showed up to court he was still unfamiliar with my case details and had to reset multiple times because he was not ready. Extremely dismissive in nature.
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07 Jul, 2021 by Marion
Mr. Vargas was appointed as the attorney for my grand daughter in Comal County Jail. The rules for court appointed lawyers is they have to contact their client within 24 hours of being appointed. I contacted Mr. Vargas after the 24 hours had gone by and he yelled at me for 10 minutes about how he did not want me to call him. This was Wednesday and he said he would see her by Friday, 2 weeks later he had not called her and would not return my calls. I called the court and explained the situation. The next day he did show up at the jail and left before seeing my Grand daughter. He came back with 3 court papers for her to sign, refused to let her read them, told her it was for probation agreement. He told her that I was never to call him or the court or the jail again. So we are trying to get a new court appointed attorney. He is mean and rude and does not keep his word
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29 Feb, 2024 by Arlene 210-309-0437
Took my $1200.00...Hired her to help Me to get custody of my 3 year old grandson...I go to Court on 1-23-14...she called me and said she has health Issues and will not be practicing law anymore...but will Not refund my money....so I can hire another attorney...Amazing
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28 May, 2024 by Anonymous
My husband was appointed this C.A attorney.The way he spoke to him the first time they met was absolutely unprofessional and down right rude .He accused him of being high on cocaine ,I thought to myself why on earth is this guy so accusatory and so down right rude ,on the next c.d he lied and said he couldn't find my husband so he left .I'm greatful to the kind officer who witnessed the incident,my husband was sitting in front row waiting on his attorney like he was told.So my husband decided against using him and will be retaining new council on his new set date for court .In my opinion ,who wants someone against you and who lies on you to represent you for ANYTHING ESPECIALLY WHEN YOUR PRECIOUS LIFE IS AT RISK ,any amount of time is too much.
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22 May, 2023 by Rene
Bottom Line Upfront (BLUF): DO NOT Hire Mr. Lopez or Mrs. Acevedo. They will insist and demand a high retainer and provide inferior services. I will rate Mr. Lopez’s and Mrs. Acevedo’s competence in four professional skills and accepted legal categories. In addition to rating their professional and legal skills, I will write a final assessment based on their performance. I hired Mr. Lopez’s wife (Rochelle Acevedo) to help me modify a custody and child support court order in Bexar County. I paid Mrs. Acevedo 3500.00 upfront at 350 USD an hour. The agreement covered court fees, written modification to the order, and a court appearance. Upon completing these tasks, I will provide additional funding at $350 an hour for other services. I had one meeting with Mrs. Acevedo to review my evidence and conducted a mock cross-examination in preparation for the trial. She was not prepared for our appointment. I was disappointed at her lack of effort. After our meeting, Mr. Lopez contacted me and said, “Rochelle’s caseload is overloaded; I will handle your case.” A Bar certified lawyer; decided to change my legal counsel. She violated our contract; furthermore, without accepting a financial loss, I had no choice. At a minimum, Mrs. Acevedo would have charged me for services rendered, or Mrs. Acevedo and Mr. Lopez would have stolen my 3500 completely.
Categories are as follows:
Experience: both attorneys work in criminal, family, and civil law. Based on my family law case, their caseloads are overextended, and they need to develop expert knowledge in family law. They couldn’t coordinate a court date.
Communication: Mr. Lopez’s phone voicemail is full. You cannot leave a voice message. He will not respond to emails in a timely manner.
Professionalism: Mr. Lopez will not attend the 8:00 docket. He will schedule a meeting and will arrive late.
His office space is a run-down shack at a terrifying location.
Loyalty: Mr. Lopez is not loyal and only seeks his financial gain. After a full year of court delays, Mr. Lopez’s attempted to negotiate a modification. The modification did not favor my position. At this point, I was highly disappointed in Mr. Lopez’s poor legal representation. After his poor negotiation skills, I told him “ I could have negotiated an insufficient modification myself”. He then said,” You know your child custody could be supervised.” I immediately stop all communication with him!
Final assessment: No one is paid 350 an hour. If a lawyer is paid 350 an hour, I expect hard work, honesty, and loyal legal representation. Mr. Lopez will not look out for your best interest, and his work ethic could be better. Mr. Lopez has a poor google rating; his wife submitted a five star google review. Very sad. I do not recommend Mr. Lopez and Mrs. Acevedo’s services.
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29 Aug, 2023 by Ebony
John was retained by myself for a simple child modification case. He was paid in full cash, took my money and never contacted me again. For 5 months I was ignored by this attorney. He wouldn’t answer my emails, texts or calls. It took me notifying the state bar association for him to return my calls. Please please DO NOT hire John Sandheinrich. He will take your money and leave you high and dry!
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02 Aug, 2023 by Elizabeth
He has multiple complaints against him with the state bar. He has lied to his clients and lied to the state bar. He took my case and my money and then continued to lie to me for months that things were done that he never did. He lied about having hearings and it took me having to call the court house to find out. He had done this to other people. Save yourself the distress and actually get a good attorney because it is not him
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03 Feb, 2021 by T
A one star is actually very generous considering Mr. Sandheinrich was hired in January 2019 for a "simple", non-contested case. According to Mr. Sandheinrich, the judge wouldn't have any other choice but award us a favorable outcome. In December 2020, I changed counsel. My new attorney accomplished more in 3 months than Mr. Sandheinrich did in 23 months. There was no follow through, a lot of misguided information and NO resolution. Mr. Sandheinrich will charm you, tell you exactly what you want to hear and then take your money and leave you. Don't be fooled!
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26 Sep, 2020 by José
Mr. Valdez has no business holding a Texas bar license to practice any kind of law whatsoever. I have submitted a formal complaint/grievance to the state bar. He was a court appointed lawyer for a case i had in county court 186 in S.A. He missed completely more than one court appointment. A judge during his absence asked the court clerks in a scheduled appointment "is this the same Jerry Valdez that always shows up late if at all ? ". The clerk simply nodded and said "yes your honor". That's to say he has a well established reputation for being tardy and even absent from scheduled court proceedings. Do not for any reason hire this man. He is a crook, a lier, and has no business practicing law in Texas or any other state for that matter. I will work tirelessly to have him disbarred as he is a detriment to legal community as a whole.
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30 May, 2018 by Anonymous
This guy lies, he's not a good lawyer at all. He will not work for you, he works for the courts. No return phone calls, no visits in jail to discuss my case. I only saw him the day of my trial for which as stated he did not fight for me.
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29 Oct, 2017 by Warren
Jerry told lied to me, about what would happen after a conviction, now i cannot drive or find a good job . when i try to contact him, he ignores and avoids my phone calls , and refuses to call me back. My life if now set back for years to come due to this lawyer.
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26 Dec, 2007 by Anonymous
Family Law. I am a father who had a favorable social study and custody from 5/04 to 3/06. This attorney never presented our case before a judge. My ex-spouse had her cousin go to CPS and accuse me and my son of abuse to our youngest. Ruled out in less than two months. Advice of Lawyer was to give her custody. I never received child support. This CPS false allegations are common in custody cases. I do not recommend this lawyer for any task. I will be happy to give more details.
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07 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Hernandez was a court appointed attorney for my son in a criminal case. He took many months to even visit my son in jail. He did not file any motions on his behalf for many months. His bedside manner was horrible. He does not return your calls until the day before court. My son spent about a year in jail before the case was settled. My son is now paying the price, in prison.
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12 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
Is willing to turn and run at the slightest hint of a true court battle. Attorneys are suppose to fight for you even if they are hired to defend you by the State as a public defender. The "I dont get paid to investigate anything" attitude only shows, just plead guilty so I can get paid and go to the next.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Valerie
Called him left voicemails didn’t receive call backs, sent text messages , showed message as being read abs never responded to messages sent. If possible, I would share screenshots of messages sent that were ignored.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Juvenile Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A juvenile law lawyer specializes in legal issues involving minors, including those facing criminal charges, child welfare matters, or status offenses (like truancy or curfew violations). Juvenile law lawyers aim to protect the rights of minors and advocate for rehabilitation rather than punishment in criminal cases. They also help families navigate child custody, abuse, neglect cases, and other legal matters involving children.
If your child is facing criminal charges, or you are involved in a child welfare case, a juvenile law lawyer can help protect your child’s rights and work toward the most favorable outcome.
When Should I Hire a Juvenile Law Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a juvenile law lawyer in the following situations where minors are involved in legal matters:
- Juvenile criminal charges: If your child is accused of a crime, such as theft, assault, or drug offenses, a juvenile lawyer can represent them in juvenile court, advocating for leniency and alternatives to detention.
- Delinquency proceedings: A lawyer can help navigate delinquency charges, defending your child’s rights and seeking rehabilitative outcomes like counseling, probation, or diversion programs instead of incarceration.
- Status offenses: If your child has committed a status offense, such as truancy, running away, or underage drinking, a lawyer can help you resolve these issues in juvenile court, often focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
- School disciplinary issues: If your child is facing school suspensions, expulsions, or other disciplinary actions, a lawyer can help protect their educational rights and challenge any unfair or unlawful school policies.
- Child protective services (CPS) investigations: If your family is being investigated by CPS for alleged abuse, neglect, or dependency, a lawyer can represent you and protect your child’s rights throughout the investigation.
- Custody disputes: A lawyer can help in cases involving child custody or guardianship disputes, ensuring the child’s best interests are prioritized and advocating for the child’s rights.
- Emancipation: If your child seeks legal emancipation from their parents or guardians, a lawyer can assist in navigating the legal process and help the child understand their rights and responsibilities.
Hiring a lawyer early in the legal process ensures that your child’s rights are protected and that the best possible outcomes are pursued.
What Does a Juvenile Law Lawyer Do?
A juvenile law lawyer provides various services to help minors and their families navigate the legal system. Their responsibilities often include:
- Representing minors in court: A lawyer will represent your child in juvenile court, advocating for their rights and seeking rehabilitative outcomes rather than punitive measures.
- Filing motions and legal paperwork: The lawyer handles all necessary legal filings, including petitions, responses, and motions to dismiss charges or suppress evidence.
- Negotiating with prosecutors: In some cases, a lawyer can negotiate plea deals or diversion programs that prevent the child from having a permanent criminal record or serving time in detention.
- Advising on rehabilitation programs: Juvenile law lawyers often focus on alternatives to incarceration, such as counseling, community service, or probation, helping minors avoid long-term legal consequences.
- Handling CPS and child welfare cases: If your family is involved in a CPS investigation or child welfare case, the lawyer can advocate for your child’s safety and well-being, ensuring that their rights are upheld.
- Defending minors against school discipline: A lawyer can help challenge unfair or excessive disciplinary actions taken by schools, ensuring that your child’s educational rights are protected.
- Advising families on legal options: A lawyer will explain the juvenile legal process to families, offering advice on the best legal strategies and what to expect during the case.
How Are Juvenile Law Lawyers Paid?
Juvenile law lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the time involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many juvenile law lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Flat fee: For simpler cases, such as status offenses or school disciplinary hearings, a lawyer may charge a flat fee that covers all legal services related to the case.
- Retainer: In more complex cases, such as defending against serious criminal charges or handling a long-term CPS investigation, a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment billed against as they work on the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some juvenile law lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or may provide pro bono (free) services for families who cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially in cases involving child welfare or delinquency.
Discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during your consultation to understand the total cost and payment options.
How Much Does a Juvenile Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a juvenile law lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the time involved. General cost estimates include:
- Juvenile criminal cases: Legal fees for defending a minor in juvenile criminal cases can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the severity of the charges and whether the case goes to trial.
- Status offenses: For cases involving minor offenses such as truancy or underage drinking, legal fees typically range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- CPS or child welfare cases: Legal fees for representing families in CPS investigations or child welfare cases can range from $2,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
- School disciplinary hearings: Legal fees for representing students in school-related issues may range from $1,000 to $3,500, depending on the legal work required.
Make sure to get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure you understand the full scope of fees and services.
Top Questions to Ask a Juvenile Law Lawyer
Before hiring a juvenile law lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your child’s case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with juvenile law cases?
Make sure the lawyer has handled cases similar to yours, whether it’s juvenile delinquency, child custody, or CPS investigations. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer. Ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my child’s case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of the case, including potential challenges and likely outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Juvenile cases can vary in duration, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors might affect the timeline. -
Will you personally handle my child’s case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing the case and representing your child in court. -
What rights does my child have?
Ask the lawyer to explain your child’s legal rights, including their rights during police questioning, school disciplinary actions, and court proceedings.
How to Check the Credibility of a Juvenile Law Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable juvenile law lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for juvenile law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in juvenile law and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate in juvenile cases.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on juvenile law matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for memberships in organizations like the National Juvenile Defender Center (NJDC) or certifications in juvenile law, which can indicate a lawyer’s dedication to representing minors.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a juvenile law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Court documents: Bring any legal documents related to your child’s case, such as summons, complaints, or court orders.
- School records: Provide any relevant school records, including disciplinary reports, attendance records, and communications from school officials.
- CPS or investigation reports: If your case involves child welfare, bring any reports or documentation from CPS or other investigating agencies.
- Timeline of events: Prepare a detailed timeline of events related to your child’s legal issue, including interactions with authorities or school officials.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the legal process, your child’s rights, and potential outcomes for the case.
Being well-prepared will help the lawyer assess your child’s situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your needs.
