Dwazendra Jne Smith, Appellate Attorney in Lafayette, Louisiana

Dwazendra concentrates on appellate, criminal defense, litigation, and slip & fall. Each area below outlines the kind of case Dwazendra handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Appellate

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• Criminal Defense

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• Litigation

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• Slip & Fall

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Dwazendra's primary office is at 1030 Lafayette St, Lafayette, LA, 70501-6836. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new appellate attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Dwazendra usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Dwazendra discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in appellate practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Dwazendra for a appellate case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Dwazendra walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Dwazendra offer a free consultation?

  Dwazendra charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Dwazendra's office. Some appellate attorneys offer free consults — check Dwazendra's current terms during booking.

• How long do appellate cases in Louisiana typically take?

  Simple appellate matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Dwazendra gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Dwazendra take my case if I'm outside Lafayette?

  Dwazendra is licensed in Louisiana. Matters governed by Louisiana law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Dwazendra will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Dwazendra?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Dwazendra will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Dwazendra accepting new appellate clients right now?

  Dwazendra's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.