I hired Attorney Blacknell to represent a family member who was charged with a very serious crime. Mr. Blacknell is a very patient and thoughtful listener. One should not be deceived by his mild manner. He is tenacious, discerning and penetrating getting to the heart of matters. His focus was on obta...ining the best outcome for my family member. (One would expect that all attorneys should conduct themselves in such a fashion--but that is not always the case. We learned that from experience.) He was the second attorney we hired to defend this family member. We opted to release the first one. During the proceedings he did not make empty promises or pretty speeches. Nor did he make promises that he knew he couldn't fulfill. He was forthright with us. He presented himself well before the court and the dividends of that is that the court showed him respect. The verdict and sentencing was one we accepted and could live with.