Cy Abdo

Our office takes and encourages everyone to call if they have a question. My secretary and anyone working for me is trained to treat everyone that calls with respect. Of course, we charge a fee and any one can call arouond to get another quote from other attorneys. When we quote a fee, it is in writing and we do not deviate from the fee or charge for minor out of pocket costs. Our fee is stated up front and in writing. It is unfortunate that this person has had other financial problems and cannot pay his or her credit card. I know that it is a bad ecomony and have told many potential clients to request court-appointed-lawyer. I agree that the system can be oppressive and expensive, but I did not invent it and do not always agree with it. However, I do know how to navigate my clients through the system and keep them from getting into a bigger legal mess. Yes, our office has attorneys that may appear for court matters. Our attorneys are well prepared and informed. They are also well versed upon criminal procedure and have practiced extensively in the area of criminal law. Many of our clients have to make a choice to accept a plea agreement or go to trial. It was this person's choice to plead guilty or no contest or have a trial. I do not make recommendations to my clients which is consistent with my duty. I let them know the strengths or weaknesses of a case and my opinion of winning at trial. Many times a client will plea because the client does not trust his or her own case or because he or she does not want the court to hear damaging evidence or testimony that may have an impact upon sentencing. IT IS ALWAYS THE CLIENT'S CASE AND HIS SOLE DECISION TO TAKE A PLEA DEAL OR GO TO TRIAL. I have also found that in assault cases where the parties know each other, neither wants to admit to being wrong. This is particularly true in domestic assault cases. I work for my clients, it is not the other way around. I must remain objective and try to keep my clients focused so that they can make informed decisions and keep it professional, not personal. Attorneys who handle criminal cases and divorces are bound to have clients that are unhappy with the outcome and blame the lawyer, the system and the Judge. Nonetheless, I strive for 100% client satisfaction as much as anyone in business. Unfortunately, it is not always attainable given the nature of criminal defense work.