Judge Tosses Abuse Convictions Of Md. Teacher, Citing Bad Lawyering
The Washington Post – By Dan Norse and Nicole Asbury – July 23, 2023
A new trial was ordered for John Vigna, 56, who taught at a Montgomery County elementary school for more than 20 years
…“Trial counsel failed to investigate and prepare Vigna’s defense,” Vigna’s new attorneys, Isabelle Raquin and Steve Mercer, added in court papers, “committed unforced errors which applied to all alleged victims, failed to individually challenge each alleged victim’s motives, and did not exploit their specific weaknesses.”

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Dynamic and knowledgeable counsel in Maryland and D.C. and for federal offenses.
A Unique Synergy Of Talents, Committed To Competing For You
Our firm features two talented individuals who combine their strengths toward a common mission: fighting passionately for our clients. Our fight is relentless, and starts early in your case, and continues with your appeal or your post-conviction.
Isabelle’s extremely powerful criminal defense skills and ability to excel at trial bring many referrals from other clients and attorneys. She handles a full range of charges, including very serious offenses. Isabelle also is the Attorney Liaison for Drug Court in Montgomery County, Maryland. Meanwhile, Steve’s highly developed knowledge of appellate practice, post-conviction relief, and complex DNA matters have brought him a national reputation. Other attorneys often seek Steve’s experience and consult with him for his unique knowledge of complex evidentiary matters.
Best of all, Isabelle and Steve work closely together, offering a synergy of skills to help clients compete effectively at any stage of the justice process. Indomitable and accomplished, they are eager to hear your story and turn it into a winning defense strategy.
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We are proud of, and very grateful, for the wonderful testimonials we have received from so many clients. Learn more about our strong record of satisfied clients.
“I would be in the Department of Corrections, and not the comfort of my own home, today, if it wasn’t for Isabelle…”
“…I was given a second chance to return back home to my family and make better choice for my life moving forward…”
“…I highly recommend Ms. Raquin for anyone who requires a top notch attorney that will work hard and go above and beyond the call of duty…”
“Steve Mercer is a modern-day Atticus Finch. He will listen to you. He will do the homework. He will get to know your story as if he had a front row seat when it unfolded. But most and above all he will represent you like no other could not just because he knows the law, and he does like no other, but because he cares and takes his job with the seriousness it deserves.”
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