Hugo Lobato Chanez, Criminal Defense Attorney in Metairie, Louisiana

Hugo concentrates on criminal defense, general, and medical malpractice. Each area below outlines the kind of case Hugo handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• General

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• Medical Malpractice

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Hugo's primary office is at One Galleria Boulevard, Suite 2130, Metairie, LA, 70001. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

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

• How much does it cost to hire Hugo for a criminal defense case?

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

• Does Hugo offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do criminal defense cases in Louisiana typically take?

  Simple criminal defense 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. Hugo gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Hugo take my case if I'm outside Metairie?

  Hugo 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 — Hugo 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 Hugo?

  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. Hugo will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Hugo accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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