FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
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What should I do if I or a loved one has been arrested?
If you’ve been arrested, it is crucial to remain silent and request a criminal defense attorney immediately. If someone you love has been arrested, you should get as much information as you can about where they were arrested and when they will be arraigned and reach out to a criminal defense attorney immediately. In both scenarios, one should contact K. Gardner Law PLLC as soon as possible so we can start building a strong defense on your or your loved one’s behalf.
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How do I file a complaint against the police?
If you or your loved one has been a victim of police brutality or misconduct in the District of Columbia, it is crucial to notify an attorney immediately. Prompt action is necessary to preserve your ability to file a claim against an officer with a D.C. law enforcement agency and the District of Columbia pursuant to D.C. Official Code § 12-309. The time to preserve your rights begins from the date of the incident, so seeking legal advice early on is essential for protecting your case.
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What types of criminal cases do you handle?
We handle all types of criminal cases in both D.C. Superior Court and the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. Mr. Gardner has handled serious felony cases such as homicide, drug offenses, assault, theft, gun possession and gun related crimes for both juvenile and adults. Mr. Gardner’s extensive experience in the District of Columbia's criminal justice system allows her to provide a strong defense for every type of case, ensuring that clients receive the skilled and dedicated representation they deserve, regardless of the charges they face.
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If law enforcement calls me about my criminal investigation, should I talk to them?
Absolutely not. It doesn’t matter if you feel you didn’t do anything wrong or if the police tell you you’re not suspected of committing a crime. If a law enforcement officer calls you or shows up to your door and asks to talk to you, the first and only words out of your mouth should always be, “I need to talk to a lawyer first.”
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What should I do if I believe I’ve been mistreated by the police?
If you feel you have been harassed, falsely arrested, maliciously prosecuted, or been the victim of excessive force at the hands of the police, you should document everything, including incidents, dates, and injuries. Then, consult with K. Gardner Law PLLC to discuss your rights and the best course of action to pursue justice.
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What is your fee structure?
Our fee structure varies depending on the type of case and is set to match the needs of each case, ensuring a fair and transparent approach tailored to your specific situation. For criminal cases, we typically charge a flat fee for representation and in civil matters, excluding specialty services such as commercial litigation and family cases, we generally work on a contingency fee basis. In all cases, there are instances where an hourly rate is more appropriate.
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How can I schedule a consultation?
You can schedule a 30-minute consultation by emailing me with your name, phone number, and a message describing your legal issue in as much detail as possible. Please also share your availability and we will confirm a date and time.
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What should I bring to my initial consultation?
For your initial consultation, please bring all relevant case materials, including documentation of complaints, charges, recordings, videos, photos, and any incident-related information such as locations and witness details.
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Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, we offer payment plans for select cases, particularly for flat fee representation. We understand that managing legal fees can be a consideration and we can provide tailored payment options to accommodate your financial needs. To establish a payment plan, we require clients to provide a credit or debit card for the arrangement and will develop a schedule that reflects the value of our services. Please contact us to discuss how we can best support you.