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Diane Carol Bass

Federal crime Attorney at Irvine, CA

5.0   20 reviews

also known as Diane Bass

  • Licensed for 32 years
    State CA
    Acquired 1991
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Diane

Learn Diane’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. Federal crime
    48%

    25 years

  2. Criminal defense
    47%
    please visit my website at www.dianebasslaw.com.

    32 years

  3. Sex crime
    5%

Ms. Bass has been practicing exclusively criminal defense for over 20 years and has handled thousands of criminal cases. She is one of the few Orange County Criminal Defense Lawyers who specializes in Federal Criminal Cases, including all white collar crimes, drug crimes, wire fraud,  medical billing fraud, insurance fraud, tax fraud, immigration fraud, bank fraud, conspiracy,  sex offenses, among others. She has obtained multiple not guilty verdicts, countless dismissals and outstanding results for her clients.

Ms. Bass handles every type of criminal case. She handles the most serious felonies in state and federal court as well as all misdemeanor cases. Each client is extremely important to Ms. Bass. She will give you her full attention. She will be there to answer your questions and she will fight for you until she obtains best possible outcome for your case. 

Ms. Bass has appeared as a legal analyst on National News Outlets including CBS News, Fox News, Al Jazeera, Dr. Drew and others. 

She previously served as one of the distinguished individuals who receives appointments on federal cases directly from the United States District Court. This is a tremendous honor reserved only for the best Federal Criminal Defense practitioners in the country.

Ms. Bass represents clients in Federal Courts across the United States, particularly Santa Ana, Los Angeles, San Diego and Riverside as well as all of the courts in at the Orange County including the Central Justice Center in Santa Ana, The United States District Court in Santa Ana, The Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach, The West Justice Center in Westminster, The North Justice Center in Fullerton and The Lamoreaux Justice Center in Orange, California. She also practices at all of the courts in Los Angeles, San Diego and Riverside Counties.

If you or a loved one have been charged with a crime or are being investigated for a crime, it is critical that you obtain the best possible representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney at the earliest possible stage of the case. An experienced criminal defense attorney can assist you from the moment of your arrest starting with the issue of bail and will be there with you every step of the way. Your attorney will be there for you through arraignment, pretrial negotiations, to determine whether any of your constitutional rights have been violated by law enforcement and present those issues to the court. She will either take your case to trial or work out the best possible resolution for your case. If you have not yet been charged with a crime but you are under investigation, now is the time to contact an attorney. Our goal is always to get the best possible results for you under the circumstances.

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Law Office of Diane C. Bass, A Professional Law Corporation
5440 Trabuco Road
Suite A4
Irvine, CA, 92620

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  20 customer reviews
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Posted by Angie | February 21, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great results navigating the OC criminal justice system
Just wanted to say thank you to Diane Bass for her expertise during a criminal charges nightmare for one of my loved ones last year. Diane made court calls, house calls, weekend texts, spoke with the family, and made sure to explain everything that was going on. She helped everyone navigate through the emotions, and get to the result we were looking for: the criminal charges dismissed. During an uncertain time Diane was able to untangle not only the mess of the case, but also the mess of the court system during covid. She got our case resolved as fast as possible so we could move forward with life. Diane is the prefect mix of gentle understanding and fierce action you’ll need if you find yourself dealing with the OC court system. She was able to leverage her long-standing relationships in the courthouse, and her shrewd knowledge of the law, to get a positive judgement we are very grateful for. Highly recommend Diane for anyone stuck dealing with an Orange County criminal case. She will put your anxiety at ease and get you through the tangled system.
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Posted by Daniel | February 21, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Perfection amongst the flaws in our justice system
In early 2020, just as the Covid-19 pandemic was ramping up, I experienced a mental health crisis at my home in Orange County, California that left me mentally, emotionally and physically traumatized. Facing all the challenges the rest of the world was facing while struggling to process all that had happened personally over those few days in February and facing unwarranted but serious felony charges from law enforcement for “assault on an officer and resisting arrest”, I found myself in need of a high profile defense attorney. Without bloating this review with all that happened during the crisis and my experiences thereafter, it’s been the most challenging year of my close to 40 years on earth. After meeting with 4 defense attorneys and against pressure from family or friends to use their referral, I chose to work with Diane Bass for a variety of reasons. Without question, I made the right choice. It wasn’t an easy decision for me, I felt I might be more comfortable with another attorney I had met, that was also a bit less expensive, but something told me Diane was the one. I’m very sentimental in all that I do, I want to work with people that are interested in taking the time to develop relationships. My first impression was that she’s very experienced, no nonsense, knows the law, how the system works and was very busy as a result. I quickly realized that she exceeded even those first impressions but also cared very much about my story, needs, and was sensitive to how challenging the process can be for her clients. A couple times she’d sent me an encouraging text, news article etc. that I needed just at that moment. I had this same experience with every professional referral she offered through the process. I’ve never felt so vulnerable and lost in my life. Without my faith in her resume’ and her professional encouragement, I can’t imagine how I would’ve made it through this process. Lock downs, courts being closed and even a deeply personal loss Diane experienced during the past year of my court process created unique challenges and she navigated it all perfectly. All charges are being dismissed, I can move on with my life and somehow feel gratitude for all of it. Whatever you’re going through that’s forced you to seek counsel, I’m confident Diane will achieve the best outcome you could hope for.
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Posted by Adam | December 31, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend
I highly recommend Diane if you are dealing with legal troubles of your own. Since this being my first Federal offense, I had know idea what to expect. I was extremely anxious. After talking to Diane, I felt like she was the attorney I needed to help me get through these challenging times. Her professionalism and knowledge of the law was comforting. She explained the charges thoroughly. Diane was prompt when I had questions or concerns with my case. With her expertise, I was able to avoid a prison sentence and instead was enrolled in a drug program, CASA. She even went above and beyond in helping me get my State case resolved. Thanks again for everything Diane. You are truly a life saver!!
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Posted by Shadic | December 10, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Simply amazing!
Diane’s work is 2nd to none, was charged with felony DV and after working with one firm in Irvine that did absolutely nothing. I did some hard research and found Diane and she worked quickly and diligently and got the case dismissed. I absolutely don’t foresee me needing a criminal lawyer down the road but if I do, it’ll be Diane hands down!
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Posted by anonymous | June 5, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommend Diane to anyone in search of a great attorney..
Having Diane represent me was truly a blessing. I dont think I could have got a better outcome elsewhere. She is very professional and attentive to any questions or concerns and strives for the best till the end. My previous appointed attorney said it is impossible for me to get bail. Diane was able to achieve that for me. If it weren't for her, I would have gotten a lot more time and a much harsher sentence on my federal case. Diane is genuinely a warm and kindhearted person, she did everything she can to comfort and relax not only me but family members also. I cannot thank you enough Diane...
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Posted by Jeff R | November 15, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Words Not Enough
Diane is the most professional, thorough attorney I have ever met. Her expertise, connections, analysis and comprehensive review of my situation was more than I could ever ask. She helped through all aspects included some extremely technical components and helped resolve my case. I am extremely grateful and couldn't be happier with my choice!
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Posted by Sheridan | April 27, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Best of the Best
Ms. Bass was appointed to defend me in a multi-state criminal fraud case. She was appointed from the Public Defender's office, so my expectations were not too high. Ms. outdid every expectation, she was a champion, an advocate, a fighter and my hero. There were many defendants, most of them male and all of whom were given jail time. Due to the amazing performance of my attorney, the heart of the Judge (and the grace of God), I did not have to serve time. I attribute that to the amazing counsel of my attorney, Ms. Diane Bass.
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Response from Diane Bass May 7, 2016
Thank you Sherri. It was my pleasure to represent you. I am so pleased with the outcome of your case. Just to clarify, I was not appointed by the public defender's office. I was appointed by the Central District Court pursuant to the Criminal Justice Act.
Posted by Pat | April 14, 2015
Case 2/23
It was amazing to watch Diane when she went into the defense mode. The opposing team made some questionable comments and she was so quick to proof that the comments were not factual. Diane added compasion to my case by referring to her own personal experience. My case was resolved with a much better outcome because of her.
Posted by Carlos | February 1, 2015
#RepresentedbyTheBestDianeBass
Diane, her knowledge & experience in the Federal Courts & Laws gave my bad situation a turn for the better! My family and I couldn't of got through this horrible situation without anyone better, your representation was excellent! I'm very grateful to have had you by my side through these very tough times!! It could of been worse, but you got me home real soon!!! Your "The Best!!" Forever Thankful, The Peterson Family
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Posted by Alvin | January 13, 2015
Don't know where i would be without Diane!
One day I woke up and my entire life had changed. It felt like I had jumped out of an airplane with no parachute. I felt like life was over and I had no control. After sitting in a cell all day reflecting I was brought out in front of the judge. At that time I was not sure who would represent me. Federal court is something I knew nothing about. Then Diane Bass walks up to me and asks my name. She was warm, understanding and advised I would be going home! Though after it was a long drawn out process she was there with me every step of the way. I was looking at 10 years which is a lot of time (at least in my book) and Diane was so confident and uplifting I felt like I had a chance. I have had attorneys in the past and they were a nightmare. Defiantly not the case with Diane. Every time I called she answered, every time I would text or Email, I would always receive an immediate response. Her attention to my needs and concerns was unbelievable. Her knowledge about what I was facing and expert opinion on the final outcome held me together. I cannot explain how important it is to have Diane on your side when facing any penalty or charge, no matter how large or small.There is no one I would rather have on my side to represent me when it comes to legal counsel. In the end she was able reduce my 10 year sentence to 2 years of probation which at first seemed like a false hope. My family as well as myself, will be forever grateful. No matter how much I thank and praise Diane for her guidance and counsel, It will never be enough.
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Posted by Ali S. | December 29, 2014
SAVED ME TWICE (Felony dropped)
Diane has been an extremely helpful attorney for me in two different cases. Both times I could not be more satisfied, my most recent case she got a felony charge completely dismissed. She has helped from the moment I call to ease the anxiety and stress, with her knowledge and understanding of the system. I am definitely going to refer her to all my friends and family, again thank you Diane- A.S
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Posted by anonymous | July 16, 2014
Forever Grateful
I am pleased to have the opportunity to express my gratitude for Diane once more. The case that she represented me in was a big one, continuing over the course of a couple of years, and involving many people. I found myself in a situation where I was accused of a crime that I did not even know of. It involved many of my family members and it impacted our lives severely. It shocked me to see that my intentions were misunderstood as I thought I was helping many people in need. I realized quickly that I felt helpless in trying to voice my innocence. I did not have the means to hire a lawyer and so I was appointed one. I am so thankful that I was appointed Diane because, now I know, that it guaranteed the best outcome for me and it changed the course of my life. From the beginning, Diane proved to be very knowledgeable, competent, and above all genuinely caring. She helped to ease many of my fears about the results of the case and helped to educate me about many things I did not know. She listened to me and wholeheartedly empathized with me. I learned to trust her very easily because she treated me like a human being and not like an “accused”. The case ended a couple of months ago with a minimal sentence of probation, and I recognize myself that it could not have gone better. Diane showed me that she believed in my freedom and fought for it better than I could do myself and for that I will be forever grateful.
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Posted by Walter | July 7, 2014
Skilled Legal Counsel That Goes the Extra Mile
Diane Bass represented me in a very serious criminal matter. She was successful in drastically reducing my sentence despite my record of recidivism and multiple charges. Diane went the extra mile for me far beyond the retainer I paid her. She saw my case though over 5 years to its completion and gave me some valuable personal guidance that set me on the course of success I've maintained to this day.
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Posted by Rayshaad | June 19, 2014
Best attorney in the world!!
My name rayshaad, a few months ago my life changed I got caught up in a serious case but thank god for Diane bass she worked hard an got the judge to give me a second chance she always answer her phone an emails. She has many clients after all she been doing it for over a couple decades, but she make each client feel Like family an she really got our back! I swear ill give my left arm for diane or right arm for her an I recommend her. She knows all the judges an da she walk in the court room like a boss! But if you do a crime an want less time hit Diane line!!!
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Posted by Tran Family | October 28, 2013
Diane Bass was our guiding angel
Diane Bass is such a blessing to us. She is like a guiding angel that helped us through one of the toughest times in our lives. We can honestly say that she is one of the most compassionate, understanding and helpful lawyers we have encountered. She thoroughly explained everything to us, she gave us a whole bunch of advices on what to do, she was very reassuring and sympathetic of our situation and continuously communicated with us throughout this whole time. She was never judgemental and we can really say that she is a very kind-hearted person. She helped us even though she didn't have to, especially that we were going through financial instability. We wholeheartedly recommend her in your time of need not only because of her knowledge but most especially for the wonderful person that she is.
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Posted by john | March 19, 2012
Thank you Diane!
First of all I would like to thank Diane for everything she has done for me, From the start of my case she has been there for me. only a very few people were granted bond and she pulled it off in my case. I know for a fact not too many lawyers cold have done that. I am on probation for three years.. while "the others" will not have the chance to raise there child and live their lives. I was headed 2 prison....I am free.. and for that I am forever grateful.....
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Posted by Ryan | January 9, 2012
Great Attorney
Diane Bass is a phenomenal attorney. I was referred to Diane by a family friend and I am extremely thankful that I was. Prior to finding out about Diane Bass, I had met with multiple attorneys only to come to the conclusion that I needed to keep searching for an attorney that was best for my case. After meeting with Diane I felt immediate comfort, and I was sold on the fact that I could trust this amazing person with my life. Diane Bass was there for me every step of the way, like no other attorney had ever been.
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Posted by G | November 17, 2009
Diane is my ANGEL
Diane Bass is truly an amazing person. She saved my life and I could not be more thankful. The fact that Diane took my case which was a federal case and saved me from hell especially because I was innocent and she believed in me immediately. Diane is honest, loyal and a hard worker. She fought for me and was there for me when I had no one. I trust Diane completely and would recommend her to ANYONE!! If Diane had not come into my life I do not know where I would be today, she knows what she is doing as a lawyer and more important when she says she is going to do something she does it. I have never met a person in my life like Diane. Also the fact that I wasn't even a resident of the United States made my case more difficult. Diane took control of my case and made sure all the real facts about me came through. Diane got me my full release on a very serious case and to this day she remains to be someone very special in my life. I do believe she was sent to me for a reason and again like I said before without Diane I do not know where I would be right now. After I was released I went through some serious trauma and post traumatic stress and she still continued to stand beside and be support for me. I adore her extremely and am very thankful for her thus why I believe she was my angel.
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Posted by anonymous | May 5, 2009
I highly recommend Diane Bass
Diane has save me twice. Once in a Federal case that spanned from 1996 to 2001, and the second time in 2005. I consider her to be my Good Luck Charm. Although I am completely ignorant of Criminal Law, Diane was always there to talk to me and keep me informed. She also prevented me, on several occasions, from making a big mistake with my dealings of my criminal problems. Her fees are fair, and she never ‘nickel and dimed’ me like my civil lawyers always do. If Diane says she is a good fit for your case - use her. If she does not consider herself to be a good fit, she will refer you out.
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Posted by anonymous | May 4, 2009
Tax fraud
I worked for a tax firm years back that was doing shaddy business. Diane was the best crimainl attorney out there. Out of all 14 of us involved, I got the best deal thanks to Diane. She was very professional and on top of things at all times. I felt she was looking after me like I was a family member! I would highly reccommend her to anyone for any case!
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AVVO RATING 9.8 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Law Office of Diane C. Bass
  • 1997 - Present
  • Deputy Alternate Defender
  • Orange County Alternate Defender's Office
  • 1996 - 1997
  • Attorney
  • DiCaro, D'Antony et. al.
  • 1992 - 1993
  • Legal Intern
  • MGM Pathe
  • 1991 - 1991
View all work experience

Education

  • Southwestern Univ SOL
  • law
  • 1991
  • Univ of California Irvine
  • undergraduate
  • 1983

Legal Cases

  • USA v. Client
  • Case Dismissed
  • USA v. Client
  • Case dismissed

Associations

  • William P. Gray Legion Lex American Inn of Court
  • member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Constitutional Law Foundation
  • Mock Trial Coach
  • 2011 - Present
  • Orange County Jewish Bar Association
  • member
  • 2010 - Present
  • Federal Bar Association Orange County
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Orange County Women Lawyers Association
  • member
  • 2009 - Present
  • UC Irvine School of the Arts
  • Dean's Leadership Counsel Member
  • 2007 - Present
  • Orange County Bar Association
  • member
  • N/A
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • member
  • N/A
  • California Public Defenders Association
  • member
  • N/A
  • Families Against Mandatory Minimums
  • member
  • N/A
  • South Orange County Bar Association
  • President
  • 2006 - 2007
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top Lawyer
  • OC Metro Magazine
  • 2014
  • Dean's Scholarship
  • Southwestern University School of Law
  • 1990
  • Dean's Honor List
  • Southwestern University School of Law
  • 1990

Publications

Speaking Engagements

  • South Orange County Bar Association
  • How Social Media Can be Used Against Our Clients
  • 2014
  • North Orange County Bar Association
  • What Every Criminal Lawyer Needs to Know about Federal Criminal Practice
  • 2014
  • University High School
  • When You Become 18: A Survival Guide for Teenagers
  • 2010
  • Bill of Rights Day
  • Bill of Rights Day
  • 2010
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (18)
Given (16)
Endorse Diane
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ms. Bass is a highly competent attorney with experience in both state and federal courts. She has a keen analysis of legal issues and is one of the most compassionate attorneys I have ever come across. I fully endorse her."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ms. Bass is an excellent attorney in and out of the courtroom and a highly skilled trial attorney."
Federal crime Attorney | Feb 25
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I highly recommend Diane Bass. She takes the time to assess her client's needs and is very compassionate. Diane presents effective and thorough arguments and is well known within the community."
Federal crime Attorney | Jun 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Bass is not only well-prepared and zealous in defending her clients, she has a sense of compassion matched by few others."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Daine. She is a lawyer who knows the law, the business and cares about her client."
Federal crime Attorney | Nov 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Diane is an excellent federal practitioner with tremendous experience in federal criminal matters."
Unknown Attorney | Aug 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Federal crime Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Diane is a fearless advocate, equally at home in federal court and state court. She is a determined and skillful advocate, as well as a good person in general. I highly recommend her."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have had the pleasure of seeing Diane in action in the courtroom and working on a case. I have also been able to work with her when coaching high school mock trial. I can say without a doubt that Diane is top notch attorney. She is a zealous advocate for those who are lucky enough to be her clients, and she is also a great teacher and mentor. I definitely endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Diane is an intelligent, caring and resourceful attorney who always has time to help a client or colleague in need. She uses her vast legal knowledge, skills and experience to obtain excellent results for her clients. It is, therefore, my great pleasure to endorse her, not only as a colleague, but as a friend."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Bass is driven and determined to obtain the best results for her clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 08
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Diane is an accomplished attorney in state and federal court. She cares deeply about her clients and takes great effort to understand their unique circumstances and get the best resolution possible. Ultimately, Diane gets great results for her clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Diane because she is an experienced and effective criminal defense lawyer. I refer Diane all of my federal cases because of her expertise in this area. Diane is an asset to the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have know Diane Bass since 1996. Diane is a knowledgeable attorney who cares for her clients and works very hard to get the very best results for them."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. There are many good lawyers in Orange County. There are many caring lawyers, also. However, very few are good, caring lawyers with an extensive state and federal criminal law background like Diane. She knows the law, knows the court system and knows when to be tough and when to cut the right deal. I strongly recommend Diane to my clients and they have only said positive things about her."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Diane's practice in Federal law is unique since her focus is on such an intricate area of law. She's one sharp woman and knows the "ins and outs" of a Federal courtroom. Clients who have a need in this very tricky area of law are lucky to have her on their side!"
Credit repair Attorney | Jul 13
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Diane is an intelligent, hardworking and above all compassionate attorney. She fights hard for her clients rights and has been successful."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Ms. Bass is one of the few attorneys in Orange County with extensive experience in both the State and Federal Courts, and she is highly respected in both for her litigation skills and dedication to her clients."
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Criminal defense
Criminal defense
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Criminal defense
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Medical malpractice
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
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