What's so special about The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm?
The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm has been continually representing clients in major felony matters including 1st-degree murder (with and without the death penalty alleged), 2nd-degree murder, manslaughter, negligent homicide, aggravated assault, endangerment, disorderly conduct, and many other firearms-related offenses since 1997. Jury trial experience relevant to Self-Defense-Related Legal Matters includes several firearms-related 1st-degree murder death penalty matters, firearms-related aggravated assault and disorderly conduct cases, as well as firearms-related federal jury trial matters. The firm has also represented many clients in high-profile cases including cases of national interest broadcast live on Court-TV. See, The Baby Gabriel Case. The firm has also handled countless criminal law-related appeals in both state and federal appellate courts.
Attorney Marc J. Victor, a United States Marine Corps combat veteran and certified criminal law specialist with over 30 years of courtroom experience, has been continuously lecturing firearms enthusiasts, at gun clubs, CCW courses, and gun shows, on the legal rights and responsibilities of firearms owners for approximately 25 years. He has publicly debated pro-2nd Amendment issues many times including in televised debates. He has also presented countless speeches on the criminal justice system and had several high-profile televised debates with elected county attorneys and other high-profile opponents on criminal law-related issues. He has appeared countless times on television and radio programs as an expert legal commentator.
The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm is a pro-freedom law firm comprised of attorneys who are all uncompromising freedom activists on all issues. The law firm has accepted cases pro bono on high-profile freedom-related issues including opposing legal restrictions during the coronavirus era. The law firm has also brought lawsuits against state governors who imposed arguably unconstitutional restrictions during the coronavirus era. The law firm actively endorses pro-freedom political candidates and supports their campaigns. Marc J. Victor has twice appeared in televised debates for The United States Senate and promoted uncompromising freedom stances on all issues. The law firm proudly founded the Live and Let Live Global Peace Movement. See, Live and Let Live.
The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm is entirely committed to excellence in all areas and hires all employees based on high character above everything else. We will not settle for second best, and we represent all clients the same way we would want to be represented ourselves. We are proud Americans and free-market capitalists. Our unshakable commitment to a free society and uncompromising high character always come before money.
What is the AOR Self-Protection Plan and how does it work?
The Attorneys On Retainer Self-Protection Plan (“AOR”) provides a team of professional, experienced, and pro-freedom criminal defense attorneys standing by to assist clients 24/7/365 for self-defense-related incidents resulting in the possibility of criminal charges as well as civil defense in the event the client is sued civilly. Victim’s rights representation is also included.
Owned and operated by The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm, AFF represents clients through either a felony or misdemeanor jury trial with ZERO additional legal defense fees or costs so long as the client was a member of AOR before the incident occurred and the client reasonably attempted in good faith to act in self-defense, even if it is ultimately determined to be a criminal act. As an AOR member, Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm also offers discounted legal representation for non-self-defense-related felony matters, civil defense for any reason, and substantial personal injury matters.
AOR is not insurance. As such, AOR clients are not subject to the countless exclusions included in many insurance policies. Unlike an insurance company, AOR utilizes its own lawyers who are members of The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm which has been successfully representing clients in major felony matters continuously since 1997. As such, AOR is not merely indemnifying a client but rather providing a legal service. AOR is a retainer fee agreement to hire The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm for limited-scope legal representation in the event of a self-defense-related incident that is reasonably expected to result in criminal charges. Nor is AOR a prepaid legal plan or referral service as those terms are used in Model Rule 7.2.
AOR members are clients of The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm and have attorney-client privilege from the initial phone call. In the event legal representation is needed, The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm will serve as 1st chair lead counsel in any of the 50 states through operation of the pro hac vice rules for admission. Additionally, every effort is made to secure the client’s choice of attorney for local counsel.
What is your cancellation policy? How do I cancel?
Members can cancel at any time. However, your $100 sign-up fee is nonrefundable. To cancel your membership, please email Support@AttorneysOnRetainer.us or call 866-404-5112.
Why does AOR charge a $100.00 sign-up fee?
The non-refundable sign-up fee is to have your plan start immediately - no waiting period, no matter if you decide to pay monthly or annually. This fee also covers the administrative fee because you are not just a member but a client of the firm when joining the AOR program.
What fees are included in the AOR self-protection plan?
Regarding Self-Defense Related Legal Matters only, AOR includes 100% of your attorneys’ fees through trial and any additional court costs and 3rd party expenses necessary to effective representation. Victim’s rights representation, civil defense and any necessary appeals are also included without any additional fees, costs, or expenses. Unless prohibited by your state, AOR also offers up to $50,000 towards bail, $4,000 towards scene cleanup, $1,500 towards mental health counseling services, and $1,000 towards firearm replacement reimbursement.
Learn more in Section IV. Expenses of the Fee Agreement.
Click here to view the Local Self-Protection Plan fee agreement.
Click here to view the National Self-Protection Plan fee agreement.
What exclusions apply to the AOR self-protection plan for self-defense-related legal matters?
There are no exclusions so long as the following three requirements are met:
- You are charged, or reasonably concerned about being charged, with either a felony or misdemeanor crime;
- You reasonably and in good faith assert you acted in self-defense or defense of a 3rd party as a defense to the charge; and
- The incident occurred after you joined the AOR program.
The following DO NOT operate as exclusions:
- You are charged with a crime
- You committed a criminal or illegal act
- You used an illegal weapon
- The incident occurred in a gun-free zone
- You are a prohibited possessor
- You were impaired by any drug or alcohol
- The incident arises out of a domestic dispute
- You failed to possess or possessed an invalid concealed weapons permit
- The incident involved a negligent or accidental discharge of your firearm
- A weapon other than a firearm was used
- No weapon was used
Does AOR offer criminal defense, civil defense, or both? (and what are the limits?)
Regarding Self-Defense Related Legal Matters only, AOR includes 100% of your attorneys’ fees through trial and any additional court costs and 3rd party expenses necessary for effective representation. Victim’s rights representation, civil defense, and any necessary appeals are also included without any additional fees, costs, or expenses. As AOR is not insurance but instead utilizes the in-house team of lawyers from The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm, there is no issue with “limits.” Unless prohibited by your state, AOR also offers up to $50,000 towards bail, $4,000 towards scene cleanup, $1,500 towards mental health counseling services, and $1,000 towards firearm replacement reimbursement.
Do I need to pay back the fees if I take a plea deal or go to trial?
No. Unlike other self-defense protection plans, you do not have to pay back any fees and your membership remains active.
Is there a reimbursement of expenses or are they paid as incurred?
All expenses are paid as incurred, except for our firearms replacement reimbursement benefit. Attorneys On Retainer cannot pay for a firearm’s purchase on behalf of a client or be involved in any transactions in this manner.
What are the exclusions on the weapons that apply to the AOR self-protection plans?
There are no exclusions for weapons in our Attorneys On Retainer program. If you claim self-defense and use any weapon, we will represent you.
Are tasers and stun guns part of the AOR self-protection plans?
YES, the AOR Self-Protection Plan applies to any weapon used with a reasonable argument of self-defense. This includes items like tasers, stun guns, pepper spray, etc. Additionally, even if a weapon is not used, we still offer representation as long as there is a reasonable argument for self-defense.
Do I need a valid CCW in a state with constitutional carry to obtain the AOR self-protection plan?
NO. That is the beauty of being backed by a law firm and not an insurance company. The AOR Self-Protection Plan will still represent you, even if your self-defense incident occurred while you did not possess a valid CCW permit.
What if my CCW is invalid at the time of a self-defense incident, will the AOR self-protection plan still apply to the member?
YES. No matter the status of your CCW license, the AOR Self-Protection Plan will still apply to the AOR member.
Does AOR apply to misdemeanors?
Yes, so long as the following three requirements are met,
1. You are charged, or reasonably concerned about being charged, with either a felony or misdemeanor crime;
2. You reasonably and in good faith assert you acted in self-defense or defense of a 3rd party as a defense to the charge; and
3. The incident occurred after you joined the AOR program.
Does AOR have a 24/7/365 emergency number to contact?
Yes. If you are involved in a self-defense emergency, call the AOR Emergency hotline as soon as you are able. We will take action immediately to protect your rights. You are also free to have any other person contact our law firm on your behalf.
Does AOR apply to clients who are working "on duty" as a security guard, police officer, or other professional?
Yes we provide coverage for “on-duty” security personnel, so long as the following three requirements are met:
1. You are charged, or reasonably concerned about being charged, with either a felony or misdemeanor crime;
2. You reasonably and in good faith assert you acted in self-defense or defense of a 3rd party as a defense to the charge; and
3. The incident occurred after you joined the AOR program.
However, AOR is secondary to any insurance policy or other legal benefit coverage that may apply.
Click here to view the Local Self-Protection Plan fee agreement.
Click here to view the National Self-Protection Plan fee agreement.
Does AOR offer veteran/military discounts?
Yes. We offer a $25 off the one-time signup fee. (This discount CANNOT be stacked with the Family Plan or other Promo codes)
Do the AOR self-protection plans apply to pre-existing legal problems?
No. You must be a member of the Attorneys On Retainer program BEFORE you have a legal problem. Pre-existing legal matters are not applicable.
If I have the National Plan, will AOR represent me in any state?
YES. Our lawyers can appear via the pro hac vice rules in any state.
What is pro hac vice and how does it work?
Although the Attorneys for Freedom attorneys are admitted to practice law only in Arizona, we can get admitted to practice law in your state through the operation of the pro hac vice rules.
Pro Hac Vice is a Latin term that translates to “for this occasion”. In the court system, an attorney may be temporarily admitted to practice law in a jurisdiction for which they are not licensed so that they may appear in a particular case without being formally admitted into that jurisdiction. We will endeavor to get your first choice of a local attorney on board. As an AOR member, you can notify us of this choice on the questionnaire in the client portal.
So, we contract with a local attorney to be admitted and to assist with the case, but we are lead counsel. All our lawyers remain in good standing with our State Bar Association and meet all requirements for admission pro hac vice. Please watch this video to see how it works:
What if you are denied pro hac vice?
If AOR is ever denied pro hac vice for a Self-Defense-Legal Matter, we will secure a local attorney in that state at no additional cost to you.
See Section V. A. of the fee agreement for reference.
Click here to view the Local Self-Protection Plan fee agreement.
Click here to view the National Self-Protection Plan fee agreement.
How can an Arizona AOR member obtain national representation with pro hac vice?
An Arizona member can obtain national representation by upgrading their Local Plan to the National Plan for just an additional $10/month.
Do the AOR self-protection plans include civil or compensatory damages?
NO. We are a law firm, and “compensatory damages” is for liability insurance.
Regarding a self-defense-related legal matter, is the initial strategy session free?
Yes. Strategy Sessions are FREE for all Self-Defense-Related Legal Matters. A strategy session is a comprehensive initial meeting with an attorney from The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm to discuss the potential case in detail. The attorney will first ask questions to thoroughly understand the client’s version of events, relevant background, and goals of the representation. The attorney will then offer a detailed analysis of the client’s legal position, an overview of how the criminal justice system works, possible defenses, and an action plan for the defense of the case. The client should plan for at least a 90 to 120-minute meeting.
How do the AOR self-protection plans compare to other concealed carry legal protection plans?
While other protection plans provide a variety of training and education, they utilize an insurance-backed program for their legal defense protections, which prevents them from being able to cover a wide variety of self-defense scenarios. With AOR, you will not find the same endless exclusions. We provide peace of mind in simple terms.
Check out our coverage comparison chart here to see how our coverage stacks up against other protection plans: https://attorneysonretainer.netlify.app/aor-difference/
How can I view the AOR self-protection plans fee agreements?
Click here to view the Local Self-Protection Plan fee agreement.
Click here to view the National Self-Protection Plan fee agreement.
What is the procedure to enact the AOR Self-Protection Plan in the event a self-defense situation arises?
Post Self-Defense Incident Instructions:
- If human life is in danger, 911 should be called immediately.
- Tell the 911 operator: “Medical attention is needed immediately. Someone is injured. Send Help.”
- Provide address and end the call.
- Call the emergency AOR hotline
- DO NOT make any further statements to the 911 operator, any responding officers, or anyone else.
- Ask to have your attorney present during any questioning and to privately call your attorney now.
I’ve lost or did not receive my emergency membership card; How can I get a new one?
All AOR members will have access to their virtual AOR membership card located in their AOR client portal after the member signs the AOR fee-agreement. For AOR members that requested physical AOR membership cards, please allow up to 30 business days after signing the AOR fee-agreement to receive your membership card. If you have either lost or did not receive your membership card, please email Support@AttorneysOnRetainer.us to request a new one. You may also download and print a temporary membership card by logging into your customer portal.
Under the AOR Family Plan, what is considered a "family member"? do they have to reside in the same household?
Anyone within your family who is 18 years or older, husband & wife/ boyfriend & girlfriend/son/daughter/nieces/nephew/grandparents, etc. is able to be under the account holder’s family plan. These family members DO NOT need to be living in the same household as the account holder.
How can I speak with a lawyer in an emergency situation?
If a human life is in danger, 911 should be called immediately. Then, explain that medical attention is needed immediately, someone is injured, send help and communicate the address. That’s it. After, call the AOR Emergency hotline. DO NOT make any further statements to the 911 operator, any responding officers, or anyone else. Ask to have your attorney present during any questioning and to privately call your attorney now.
What is civil liability?
Civil Liability exists when a person is sued in a court of general jurisdiction by another private party usually seeking monetary damages.
When such civil liability arises out of a Self-Defense-Related Legal Matter, AOR will represent the client through either dismissal, settlement, or trial without any legal fees, costs, or expenses.
If civil liability arises out of a Non-Self-Defense-Related Legal Matter, AOR will offer to represent the client at a 35% discount off the then-existing billable rate for all attorney time expended. In such Non-Self-Defense-Related Civil Matters, the client remains responsible for depositing sufficient funds into the Attorney’s trust account to cover all legal fees, costs, and expenses.
However, if a civil judgment is entered against you, AOR does not cover any civil judgment that is owed to the plaintiff (ex. medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, etc.)
What does victim advocate representation mean?
Victim Advocate Representation means our team of lawyers will advocate for criminal charges to be brought against the bad guy who committed the crime causing the AOR member to have to act in self-defense. If criminal charges are brought against the bad guy, we will advocate against any unjust plea agreement, and go to court to advocate for whatever sentence the AOR members believe is appropriate. We will also deal with any press inquiries on the AOR member’s behalf. This is all included as part of the AOR program.
Why does AOR not apply to red flag laws?
The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm is firmly opposed to all laws that deprive people of their firearms without due process of law. Red flag laws that unconstitutionally strip responsible firearms owners of their weapons based on unsupported allegations should immediately be abolished. While we may add red flag law representation at some point in the future, the AOR program is focused on self-defense-related matters. We also offer discounted representation to AOR members for non-self-defense-related matters such as all felonies, civil defense cases, and personal injury matters.
How much will AOR pay towards bail bonds?
Unless prohibited by your state, payments for bail bonds operate as follows:
Secure Bonds
If the client has sufficient collateral, AOR will provide funds up to $50,000 for a secure bond on a posted bond value of up to $500,000.
A secure bail bond, also known as a secured bail bond or secured appearance bond, is a specific type of bail bond that requires the defendant to provide collateral to secure their release from jail. This collateral serves as a guarantee that the defendant will appear in court as required. If the defendant fails to appear for a court hearing, the court can seize the collateral to cover the bail amount. Collateral can be in various forms, such as cash, property, or merchandise. The Client must have sufficient collateral before AOR will remit any funds for a secured bail bond. AOR does not provide collateral.
Cash Bonds
AOR will provide funds up to $50,000 for a cash bond of $50,000.
A cash bail bond, as the name suggests, is a type of bail that requires the defendant or someone on the defendant’s behalf to deposit the entire bail amount in cash. AOR will not provide any funds toward a cash bond that exceeds $50,000 unless the client can post the difference in cash.
How much will AOR pay towards scene cleanup?
Assuming this is not prohibited by law or any ethics rule in the applicable state. We will pay a cleaner of our choosing up to $4,000 to clean any biohazardous materials from your residence or vehicle in relation to a Self-Defense Legal Matter.
How much will AOR pay towards firearm replacement reimbursement?
Assuming this is not prohibited by law or any ethics rule in the applicable state. We will reimburse you up to $1,000 for a firearm that has been confiscated by law enforcement in relation to a Self-Defense Legal Matter. Other terms and conditions may apply.
How much will AOR pay towards mental health services?
Assuming this is not prohibited by law or any ethics rule in the applicable state. We will pay for up to 10 sessions or $1,500 towards mental health services provided by a licensed mental health professional in relation to a Self-Defense Legal Mater.
What if multiple AOR clients are involved in the same self-defense-related incident?
If two or more AOR clients are criminally charged in the same matter, the Attorneys will determine whether a conflict of interest exists. If a conflict of interest exists, the Attorneys will determine whether such conflict is waivable. If the conflict is waivable, a written waiver will be fully explained by the Attorneys and presented to the AOR clients involved. If the AOR clients involved each execute the written waiver, the representation will proceed as to each AOR member. If the Attorneys determine a non-waivable conflict exists, such as in a case where each AOR member implicates the other, representation is not possible and will be declined.
Can I sign up with AOR and still be a member of a competing self-defense program?
Yes. While we can’t speak for any other competitor, our attorneys are happy to work with other attorneys who can help contribute to the team. Our lawyers have previously worked alongside lawyers from other law firms on cases without any problems. We will act professionally and cordially with any other lawyer who is committed to offering the best legal defense possible. We are always in favor of whatever is best for the client.
How can AOR afford to offer what they do for $35/month?
Unlike the insurance-based programs, AOR does not have to pay any additional money at all for the first chair attorney even if the case goes to trial. The reason for this is that Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm administers the Attorneys On Retainer fee agreement. All our lawyers are on salary. We merely add another case to the active cases we are already working on for clients who are paying our regular hourly rates. While it is true AFF pays for the pro hac vice fees, travel expenses, and litigation-related expenses, the monthly dues from AOR more than cover these incidental expenses. Our law firm has been continuously representing clients in major felony cases since 1997. We have been representing clients nationally for over 20 years. We are happy and eager to represent clients when needed. Our lawyers love what they do.
Why does AOR not offer civil liability?
The Attorneys On Retainer program is a law firm agreement, NOT an insurance policy or prepaid legal plan.
As a law firm, AOR’s primary goal is to provide our clients with the best legal representation possible in the event of a self-defense-related incident. So long as the three criteria are satisfied for a “self-defense-related legal matter,” AOR will represent you even if you committed a criminal act or you choose to plead guilty.
However, if a civil judgment is entered against you, AOR does not cover any civil judgment that is owed to the plaintiff (ex. medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, etc.).
An insurance-backed company that offers civil liability coverage likely offers it through its insurance policy and has the financial protection to cover up to $1 million in damages if a civil judgment is entered against you. However, if the insurance company determines that your self-defense incident was considered a “criminal act,” or you accepted a plea or were found guilty, they may decline coverage entirely for all matters.
Additionally, the availability of an insurance policy can also serve as an enticement for plaintiffs’ lawyers to bring such a civil matter. Because AOR will defend the civil case through trial, many plaintiff’s lawyers may be discouraged from bringing such an expensive lawsuit, which they will likely be required to fund personally in the hopes of a recovery.
How can an Attorney post bond in states that it is illegal for attorneys to do so?
In the minority of states where lawyers are prohibited from posting bonds on behalf of their clients, AOR has access to a dedicated third-party-owned fund containing irrevocable funds for exactly this purpose. AOR attorneys will not post the bond where prohibited. The irrevocable funds were donated by a wealthy pro-2A supporter who desires to assist people involved in self-defense-related incidents as determined by AOR. The donor has no access to any information about the client or the case. This arrangement has been fully analyzed and approved by the law firm’s ethics counsel and is detailed in the AOR fee agreement in Section IV(G).
What legal fees would an AOR member be responsible for?
As an AOR member you do not have to worry about any extra legal fees so long as the three requirements are met:
- You are charged, or reasonably concerned about being charged, with either a felony or misdemeanor crime;
- You reasonably and in good faith assert you acted in self-defense or defense of a 3rd party as a defense to the charge; and
- The incident occurred after you joined the AOR program.
Can I choose my own lawyer?
AOR members are able to assemble an all-star team of lawyers for their legal representation. All AOR clients automatically have The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm as their 1st chair lead counsel in all 50 states. Our lawyers can quickly and easily be admitted to practice in any state via the operation of the pro hac vice rules in any state. We maintain the requirements for all 50 states. All the Attorneys at the firm work together as a team on every case for effective representation. Additionally, AOR clients can select the local counsel of their choice on their emergency contact form. Every effort is made by our law firm to secure the client’s choice of attorney for local counsel. If the AOR client does not have a preferred lawyer in their state, our lawyers will either contact local lawyers we have used previously or interview local lawyers and select the most qualified lawyer to represent the client locally. We will always prefer the best team to represent the client.
When do I officially become an AOR client?
As soon as a person signs the fee agreement, watches the fee agreement video, and either checks the box indicating they have no additional questions or has any questions resolved by an attorney, and then pays the initial fee, the person is then an AOR client in good standing. The AOR client will begin receiving our periodic newsletter, receive an invitation to the AOR annual conference, and have The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm standing by for any legal emergencies resulting from a self-defense-related incident. We will also represent any AOR client in court if the client is charged with any crime meeting our three self-defense-related incident criteria.
Does AOR apply to administrative proceedings for TSA violations?
No. Administrative proceedings for TSA violations do not apply to the Attorneys On Retainer program.
Does AOR apply to the restoration of rights?
No. The restoration of rights does not apply to the Attorneys On Retainer program.
Does AOR apply to lost wages?
No. The Attorneys On Retainer program does not cover lost wages.
Does AOR apply to ankle monitors?
No. The Attorneys On Retainer program does not cover ankle monitors.