Lawyers map
>1,018k
experienced lawyers
Thank you for your service. You are the best lawyer I have ever hired.
Different
review sites
review sites
>7
Filter by
12 Dec, 2017 by Keyla
I must admit I was nervous about dealing with a lawyer in northern Illinois while being located in central Illinois but I couldn't have had a better experience. mr.drake was very attentive and kept me informed step by step and when he was out of the office mr.collopy was there to make sure they didn't miss a beat. I would say with all the hassle from my injury it was nice to have a smooth process with my lawyer
Read more
17 Oct, 2015 by Tim
my case has been a long one and normally I would be stressed to the max but now I worry more about how well my yard looks after I mow . I have the upmost confidence that he is on top of his game for me and my family . and by the way my yard looks great so Paul keep up the good work
Read more
13 Jun, 2015 by Michelle
He has represented several different family members fRon personal injury, workers comp, and disability. He has never been more professional, compassionate and knowledgable as any other attorney I personally know. Great staff as well. He fights hard for each and every client.
Read more
26 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Fritz handled my workers comp case. Kept me informed. Talked to me like a friend. Very caring. Very professional. I would recommend him and have recommended him to friends.
Read more
03 Mar, 2021 by Maryann and tom
Atty. Novasic represented me and my husband for injuries we got when we fell walking into a big box store. We are senior citizens and never went through anything like this before. We weren't sure what to do. He made us feel comfortable in pursuing legal action for payment of our medical bills. He knew what he was doing, understanding and easy to get in touch with. He kept us informed as to the progress of the case. He even fought to get the video footage. He got all our medical bills paid and extra for all we went through. Very pleased with his work.
Read more
25 Feb, 2021 by Amaris
As a single mom I was stressed after my son and I were in a car accident. After talking to Aaron he assured me that he would take care of us. He was calm and understanding especially after I broke down crying to him about the crash. Aaron worked quick and checked in on us to see how the doctor visits were going. Aaron got us a great settlement with the insurance company of the person that hit us. He told us from the first day talking that we won’t have to worry about a thing and that our only job was to focus on our health and he did the rest. I cannot thank him enough!
Read more
01 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
My husband and I were in an accident 3 years ago and despite the defense making the case as difficult as possible John went above and beyond to make sure we were taken care of. He is a great guy and we definitely recommend him.
Read more
26 Nov, 2014 by John w
Mr. Hicks worked with me on a case that involved a past client that was not happy with the services my company provided. The case went from negotiations all the way to a trial. Mr. Hicks was very knowledgeable of the laws. After telling Mr. Hicks about my services and giving him some basic information about my work, he took it upon himself to learn even more about my business. Armed with his knowledge of the law and the ins and outs of my industry he took my case to trial. The process was very stressful, but Mr. Hicks had amazing confidence and poise. Mr. Hicks got the verdict we wanted and I'm very happy with his quality of work. I would highly recommend him to a family or friend. 100% No Question. Thanks again for your hard work Mr. Hicks...
Read more
07 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Susan Novosad is a very gifted and seasoned attorney. She represented me following a traumatic incident in 2011 that resulted in serious physical and emotional injuries. The defendant was no lightweight and resisted many attempts to settle the case, resulting in a rare jury trial. Throughout the entire process, my family and I found Susan to be a consummate professional. She was patient, kind, and attentive. From a legal perspective, she was always prepared. We were humbled by how seriously she took the case, and by how much effort she poured into the many pre-trial affairs and courtroom proceedings. I recommend Susan without hesitation.
Read more
17 Apr, 2012 by David
Susan's representation was outstanding in every category. While she consistently provided world class professionalism throughout our case, it was her compassion that exceeded our expectations. We felt she genuinely cared about us as a client and shared in our pain. We are grateful to her for that. We would highly recommend Susan to anyone looking for top tier representation.
Read more
31 Dec, 2014 by Diane
Bob Weltchek is a wonderful attorney dedicated to getting the very best results for his clients. His personal commitment, professionalism and basic decency is unsurpassed. He handled the most complex litigation for us with excellent results. His is not only a great lawyer but a great person. I would highly recommend him.
Read more
17 Aug, 2012 by Melissa
When I was giving birth to my daughter, there were some avoidable complications and I hired Robert Weltchek to help me pursue a medical malpractice claim due to a birth injury my daughter suffered.
He was very helpful, got the results I was looking for.
Read more
29 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Funk did a wonderful job negotiating my settlement. I appreciated his hard work and commitment to handling my case and keeping me informed when I didn't understand the legal process.
Read more
28 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I am so happy to review my attorney, Mr. Funk. He took care of my case, even with the challenges presented and got me much more than I thought possible for my suffering. I interviewed four other attorneys before going with Mr. Funk, because I felt he was the most realistic. He over-delivered. He communicated along the way, and always called me back with answers to my questions. Thank you, Mr. Funk!
Read more
08 Apr, 2019 by Christine
Mike went above and beyond while representing our 20 year old son following an auto accident. We appreciated Mike's ability to deal with our son at a level that our son would understand. We (with our son's permission) were also informed and consulted each step of the way throughout the process. Mike guided us on our options with an outcome much better than we ever expected!
Read more
04 Dec, 2018 by Nick
Mike's consultation and guidance for my side business was top-notch. He truly understood my needs and was thoughtful in his approach in discussing options moving forward.
Read more
30 Aug, 2016 by Paul
In 2002, my wife was returning to work from lunch, and was rear ended by a car doing 45 miles an hour, and our lives changed forever. At that time, she was managing a law office in South Jersey, and her boss, a personal injury lawyer, was in the process of relocating. She then had the opportunity to interview almost 30 Lawyers to handle HER case. Within a minute she knew that Lou was the man to handle her life changing case.
Four years, and two spinal reconstructions later, the case was successfully completed. The award was very substantial, and helped tremendously.
Although my wife's life is irrevocably changed forever, it was Lou De Voto the MAN that made this terrible time bearable. Lou never failed to answer our calls, keep us updated, and always showed true compassion.
But even more is that Lou knew the continually changing landscape of judicial trends, such as public sentiment as it related to jury decisions, and in which geographical areas these sentiments affected judgments. In short, Lou knew his business inside and out.
I have since referred well over a dozen clients to Lou, and all have walked away completely satisfied. I recommend Lou with absolutely no reservations, and will continue to refer people who only want the best representation for their own sudden life changing injuries.
Not only is Lou DeVoto the kind of Attorney you want, but that Lou DeVoto is the kind of man you want to represent you in your time of need.
Read more
29 Aug, 2016 by Phil
Mr Devotto expertly handled my civil claim case from start to finish. He was always friendly and professional. I would highly recommend him
Read more
18 Sep, 2015 by Personal injury client
My son and I were in a terrible 3-car accident in Tucson. I went to Hollingsworth Kelly Law Firm and they really came through for us. The staff is professional and experienced. I was pleased with our settlements and that they were able to reduce our hospital liens. Hollingsworth Kelly also set-up a conservatorship for my son. I whole-heartedly recommend the attorneys at Hollingsworth Kelly.
Read more
27 Aug, 2015 by Carol
After my car accident, I experienced pain that kept me from performing even easy everyday activities. I
was fortunate to find an outstanding attorney, Louis Hollingsworth, to represent me in my case. Louis
and his staff took care of all the details related to my case--they dealt with the insurance company,
resolved my medical liens, and were always available to answer my questions. I was very pleased with
my settlement and with the professional and caring way I was treated by the Hollingsworth Kelly Law
Firm.
Read more
14 Mar, 2017 by Mike dunn
I highly recommend lou pendas. He is a very intelligent, hard working, aggressive attorney who cares deeply about his firm, and his clients. Lou pendas fought for me, and won my case. You can trust lou pendas. And when you go into a battle against a large insurance company, you can be assured that lou pendas will work tirelessly, and aggressively to fight for your rights. I support lou pendas. Please give him a chance to win your case for you . Mike d. fl. March 2017.
Read more
13 Apr, 2015 by Andrea
I have had a wonderful and great experience since the first day I became a client under Les Pendas Law firm. My representative is always responsive and very prompt to my needs. If I had an questions or concerns they are always addresses. At this time my case is still in a pending status but I can honestly say they are really getting things done for me in a timely fashion. I would recommend any of my family and friends to this firm.
Read more
19 Oct, 2016 by Reese p.
Chad is one of the best Lawyers I have worked with. He was there anytime I needed him. He worked on a 6 month case for me and made everything right!
Read more
22 Apr, 2015 by Dwayne
We're a small but growing company without in-house counsel. When we find ourselves in a pickle and need a quick response to an issue, I can count on Chad to respond within 24 hours to my call and create time on his schedule to give the issue proper attention. Chad's easy going, personable, and puts all at ease so you focus on the issue.
Read more
24 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Scott handled my auto accident case in a very efficient manner. I was pleased with the outcome. He kept me informed each step of the way and worked hard to make sure that I received the most I could for my loss.
Read more
18 Jan, 2012 by Tom
Scott has served me well on several occassions including the preparation of my will, preparation of a power of attorney, real estate transactions, a workmen's compensation case, and counsel regarding circumstances encountered in my professional capacity. I have found him to very reliable and extremely trustworthy.
Read more
10 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
David represented us for my husbands serious work related injury. Ours was a very difficult case that stretched out over 8 long years with many twists and turns.Even though it took a long time through no fault of his own, he remained very dedicated to our case. He never gave up. With his extensive knowledge of the law and grit, David represented us so well that we received above and beyond what we originally asked for after our case was presented by him in court. Our case is now entered into the law books as law due his efforts. Both he and his staff worked very hard for us. They always answered questions, returned calls promptly and were very patient with us throughout the years. The whole firm could not have given us better service if they tried, we are so thankful for each and every one of them. We never really understood before all that an excellent lawyer goes through and does until we saw David in action on our case. He is truly an honest, compassionate and hard working man. He does not accept cases to make money but to make sure that justice is served. We feel we were both blessed and honored to have Mr. Kupets as our attorney and will forever be grateful to him. If the need arose we would not hesitate to have him represent us again. We highly recommend this very wonderful lawyer!
Read more
08 May, 2010 by Bob
I worked with David for over 6 years and he was very prompt with returning my calls and answering my questions. He kept me informed about progress and process of the case. I felt he represented me the best that anyone could have done.
Read more
09 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
My family was very happy to have Phil Freidin represent us in a suit against a local hospital. Phil was diligent in obtaining a positive result for us, while always genuinely being concerned for us and being compassionate.
Read more
26 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Phil Freidin is an outstanding attorney! He demonstrated knowledge and experience with respect and concern. His office staff was pleasant and immediately replied to my inquiries. Phil always spoke with me days before meetings; he answered all my questions and explained what to expect in each venue, which reduced my anxiety.
Read more
17 Feb, 2016 by Katie
Mr. Denton has assisted my family with multiple cases over the years and has always exceeded our expectations! Highly recommended for his professionalism, attentive actions and friendly attitude.
Read more
17 Feb, 2016 by Jeremiah
Professional legal service. My father was a lawyer, one of the few "good" ones, and I would put Mr Denton into that same group. Trustworthy, experienced, honest, and knowledgeable of the law. If you are looking for a quality lawyer, those are the qualities that you are looking for. I would refer Me Denton to anyone that was in need a legal representation.
Read more
30 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Peter helped me for a car accident in which I was hurt. He was honest and straight forward in the way he handled my case. Even though, the insurance company put up road blocks because of my previous injury, Peter helped me in obtaining a nice settlement.
Read more
30 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Scherr handled a wrongful death case resulting from my mother's untimely death caused by the negligence of multiple corporate defendants. His handleing of the case was professional as he regulartly communicated with me and my family, and he resolved the case with sensitivity. I would highly recommend Mr. Scherr to anyone with a personal injury or wrongful death case.
Read more
17 Dec, 2015 by Marshall
Gary Meyer listens to his clients and gives them hones strategic feedback. He has represented me and my interest very effectively.
Read more
16 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
My wife and I were first introduced to Gary Meyers almost 8 years ago by several friends Mr. Meyers had previously represented in a number of lawsuits involving successful litigation. In 2008, Mr. Meyers represented us in a rather involved contractual matter that continued for almost 5 years. Responding to endless motions, Mr. Meyers ultimately obtained a jury verdict in the amount of $2.7 million verdict. He also prevailed in an appeal of that verdict, and was steadfast and relentless in his pursuit of justice until our case was finally settled on a confidential basis. Mr. Meyers’ representation on our behalf was truly a legal version of David versus a corporate Goliath. He never wavered in his sense of fairness and right. Since then we have referred many friends and business colleagues and will happily continue to do so.
Read more
05 Mar, 2021 by Kelly
I spoke with him about laws pertaining to workman comp. and my rights on getting 2nd opinions. Whether a job can place me on comp. due to Dr. Restrictions after still doing the same job for 9 months. He was very friendly and helpful in the many steps I could take.. There was no pressure to hire him during the consultation and tells you up front his charges if you do. Would recommend him to friends and family and I am keeping his card in case I need him again.
Read more
19 Apr, 2018 by Mike
I used McKeon law services for a car claim. Mr. McKeon was very professional awesome to work with. I highly recommend his services.
Read more
19 Jul, 2023 by Karla
He worked very hard and we received an excellent result. I would highly recommend.
Read more
08 Oct, 2011 by Kelly
He never stopped fighting for me and my children as a matter of fact he is still fighting for us now
Read more
12 Jul, 2023 by Jesse
Throughout my life I’ve had numerous attorneys (more than 10) for various reasons. Bryant is hands down the best I’ve ever dealt with. I’ve had two accidents in recent years where I was not at fault but was injured. After getting “Hammered” by the attorney of my last claim with unreturned phone calls, emails and lack of updates in the case, I decided to find a new attorney for my recent injury. After much research I decided to retain Bryant and I’m glad I did. Every phone call and email was returned promptly- often times within minutes. Bryant updated me every strep of the process and constantly offered advice and help above and beyond what he was obligated to do. Even though the party that hit me had very little coverage and Bryant’s commission wasn’t a lot, he treated me as if the policy limit was a million dollars. If you read this review and are considering retaining Bryant, hopefully this review will be the deciding factor in retaining Bryant. I guarantee you will not regret it.
Read more
14 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
You already know by resume this guy is a real lawyer which lately I have had issues with some being dishonest and loyal, I appreciate
Read more
07 Mar, 2013 by Keith
Melinda is a total professional she knows her stuff and anyone that gets her services is lucky i cant say enough good about her and she gets an A+ from me
Read more
08 Feb, 2013 by Nicole bustamante
Melinda Bell helped me fight for and be awarded 50/50 custody of my daughter. Melinda fought with a level of professionalism that was immeasurable. Any mother seeking custody of their child/children has the VERY Best chance of success if they have Melinda Bell on their side.
Read more
18 May, 2018 by Miguel f.
Tremendous ability to relay all the details regarding my case directly to me. Made sure to bring me in the loop of every legal avenue she would have to take. Advised that every element & detail involved would be factored in if in fact it had to go to litigation
Read more
28 Feb, 2018 by Ivan
I highly recommend Ms. Vega. She worked very hard to get my settlement taken care of and she did it quickly. I was very easy to work with her and her team. I hope I don't ever need them again, but if I do, I know who to call.
Thank you!!
Read more
31 Oct, 2019 by Rebecca
Mr. Kieklak and his staff were very professional and guided me through the Social Security Disability process and hearing. I could not have managed to get the doctors paperwork and other items together for my case and have them submitted like they required without his help. The were always available to talk to and answer all questions. Fibromyalgia is a difficult case to represent but he did a fantastic job for me which resulted in a favorable decision. Thank you Mr. Keiklak and your staff.
Read more
13 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Kenneth J. Kieklak is an honest lawyer who helped me get what my case deserved. He always was available for me at any time I needed him.
Read more
21 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Page helped me to settle my car accident claim against two very difficult insurance companies. It was a long process due to its complication, but Mr. Page walked me through the whole process. At one point, he told me if this were going to the court, he would still stick to our original engagement letter (you know most attorneys charge differently for the trial) just because he could not stand what the insurance company was trying to do on my claim. Fortunately, my case got satisfactorily settled without going to the court. I think he probably should have retired by now, but I would highly recommend him because he knows what he does and more importantly, he has the ethics that are the key to everything. Thank you so much Mr. Page.
Read more
28 Jul, 2017 by Chad
I could not have asked for a better legal experience. Jim worked efficiently to provide me with the best settlement possible. In an industry lacking moral fiber, Jim is as honest and hardworking of an attorney as you will find. I would gladly refer him to anyone that I cared about.
Read more
26 May, 2016 by Judy
At first Rob wasn't sure if he would take my case. After speaking more at length with him he felt that he did want to help me. It took 3 years. Through the entire process Rob was very caring, compassionate and thorough. I knew he really cared about all of his clients. I live in another state so I would have to come back to AZ to prepare for the depositions and all the doctor appts. I felt like Rob was always with me and helping me. We were able to settle my case before it went to trial.
Read more
18 May, 2016 by Lisa
Atty Kleinschmidt went above and beyond the call of duty on my case. He worked day and night and believed in me and never doubted me or gave up on my case. He was tireless and brilliantly worked my case. This man gives a whole new meaning to attorneys because he truly cares about his cases and believes in the fairness of the law and fight tooth and nail for his clients. He does not pass his work off to associates or assistants he does the research, footwork and hard work. He truly is an old school atty in the modern times with a brilliant mind. You are lucky to be chosen as his his client.
Read more
13 Dec, 2017 by Dewayne
My experience with James Bizzieri and law firm has been comforting and pleasing! Even though my injuries and issues accompanying it held me back and weighed me down with anxiety, I was assured from there on out things would be less stressful. Mr. Bizzieri answered all questions I asked honestly and in a way that I can understand. Instead of just a lawyer he made me feel like I was talking to a close friend I confided in. Bizzieri and staff regularly updated me with the status of my case and any upcoming events I needed to be aware of. I truly appreciate having him as my lawyer!
Thanks Jim,
Dewayne
Read more
12 Dec, 2017 by Deborah
He explained how every thing would work and what would happen. He went round and round with them to get the best for me.
Read more
12 Apr, 2024 by Stephanie clark
22 Aug, 2019 by Benedetto licata
02 Jul, 2024 by Lucy l
He is very kind and honest to discuss about my case. I wish he has time to handle my case.
Read more
09 Sep, 2014 by Keith
Mr. Gaertner has been a strong, determined and tenacious advocate for my needs and the cases he has handled for me. Mr. Gaertner is trustworthy, in that his word is his bond. He is compassionate and has always placed my needs ahead of anything else involved in the legal process, while still maintaining a professionalism that is unsurpassed by anyone I've had contact with in the field of law. His communication and people skills are unequalled as well. There has never been an occasion when a telephone call or email has gone unanswered. Mr. Gaertner is honest and is a realist. He has never promised the moon to appease me, and has had several opportunities to temper my frustration and emotion(s), when I was getting bent out of shape due to matters to which I had no full understanding of such. I'm old, and rural/country refined. I'm not accustomed to seeking or taking advise from young people. That is what elders are for. Mark Gaertner has my complete trust and respect in all matters of which, he is representing me. To say I have full faith and confidence in Mr. Gaertner is an understatement. Mark Gaertner is a man with whom I believe will remain a lasting friend, long after the legal matters have been put to rest. I would, and have, whole heatedly referred others to Mr. Gaertner. I can assure you with confidence that I would not have, and would not do so, if I thought doing so would put my good name in peril.
I first became professionally acquainted with Mark several years ago, when my daughter was struck by a drunk driver. His first concern was that her medical needs we're being properly attended to by all parties. It was then, that he began addressing the legal issues. I brought Mr. Gaertner into a workman's compensation matter in 2010, and he has worked diligently to insure that my medical needs were addressed and that I was not further victimized by the workman's compensation system. He is intuitive and knowledgeable in his field, and respected by all who know him.
Read more
07 Aug, 2016 by Laurence
Kevin is a great. He took my case very seriously. He made me feel very comfortable and broke down every aspect of my situation. He stayed in constant contact and handled everything very professionally.
Read more
15 Oct, 2012 by Stephanie
He was outstanding with my case. He represented me and my family. He is very well respected in our community. He was always professional and caring during the entire case. He was knowledgeable and retained experts to review my case and hired as expert witnesses for my case. He always had my families best interest at heart. He is a very compassionate person. I am extremely thankful for his expertise in my case. My pleasure to know him. I would recommend him to anyone seeking an attorney.
Read more
Find by
State
- New York
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- Pennsylvania
- Ohio
- Illinois
- Georgia
- Michigan
- Washington
- District of Columbia
- North Carolina
- Massachusetts
- Louisiana
- Tennessee
- Maryland
- Wisconsin
- New Jersey
- Minnesota
- South Carolina
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Kentucky
- Virginia
- Oregon
- Alabama
- Indiana
- Connecticut
- Utah
- Missouri
- Nevada
- Nebraska
- West Virginia
- New Mexico
- Oklahoma
- Rhode Island
- Mississippi
- Kansas
- Arkansas
- Iowa
- Delaware
- Idaho
- Hawaii
- Maine
- Wyoming
- North Dakota
- Alaska
- New Hampshire
- Montana
- Vermont
- South Dakota
Browse lawyers
Cities
-
New York
-
Washington
-
Chicago
-
Houston
-
Los Angeles
-
Atlanta
-
Dallas
-
San Francisco
-
Philadelphia
-
Seattle
-
Austin
-
Boston
-
San Diego
-
Pittsburgh
-
Miami
-
Columbus
-
Phoenix
-
Denver
-
Brooklyn
-
Cleveland
-
New Orleans
-
Portland
-
Nashville
-
San Antonio
-
Cincinnati
-
Charlotte
-
Minneapolis
-
Milwaukee
-
Sacramento
-
Tampa
-
Baltimore
-
Louisville
-
Salt Lake City
-
Raleigh
-
Orlando
-
Birmingham
-
Indianapolis
-
Buffalo
-
Baton Rouge
-
Irvine
-
Albany
-
Columbia
-
Las Vegas
-
Fort Lauderdale
-
White Plains
-
Fort Worth
-
Memphis
-
Madison
-
Detroit
-
Oakland
-
Jacksonville
-
Albuquerque
-
Rochester
-
San Jose
-
Saint Louis
-
Saint Paul
-
Omaha
-
Garden City
-
Bronx
-
Lexington
-
Knoxville
-
Coral Gables
-
Harrisburg
-
Grand Rapids
-
Charleston
-
West Palm Beach
-
Providence
-
Kansas City
-
Beverly Hills
-
Boca Raton
-
Southfield
-
Greenville
-
Scottsdale
-
Wilmington
-
Newport Beach
-
Troy
-
Palo Alto
-
Tucson
-
Syracuse
-
Tallahassee
-
Hartford
-
Pasadena
-
Spokane
-
Charleston
-
Metairie
-
Oklahoma City
-
Honolulu
-
Tacoma
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
Top Questions to Ask a Lawyer
When meeting with a lawyer for the first time, it's important to ask the right questions to understand their expertise and determine if they're the right fit for your legal needs. Here are some top questions to consider:
-
What experience do you have with cases similar to mine?
Ensure the lawyer has relevant experience in the specific area of law pertaining to your case. -
How do you charge for your services, and what are the estimated costs?
Understand the fee structure, including hourly rates, flat fees, retainer fees, and any additional expenses. -
What potential outcomes can I expect from my case?
While no lawyer can guarantee results, they can provide an assessment of possible scenarios based on their experience. -
What is your approach to handling cases like mine?
Learn about their strategy, whether they prefer negotiation, mediation, or litigation. -
Who will be working on my case?
Find out if the lawyer will handle your case personally or delegate tasks to other attorneys or paralegals. -
How will you communicate with me throughout the process?
Establish expectations for updates, preferred communication methods, and response times. -
What is the likely timeline for resolving my case?
Get an estimate of how long the process may take from start to finish. -
Do you have references from past clients?
Testimonials or references can provide insight into the lawyer's professionalism and effectiveness. -
What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
Understanding potential challenges helps you prepare and sets realistic expectations. -
Are there alternative ways to solve my legal problem?
Discuss options like mediation, arbitration, or settlement to resolve the issue efficiently.
How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer
Before hiring a lawyer, it's crucial to verify their credibility and ensure they're qualified to handle your case:
-
Verify Their License:
Check with your state's bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and in good standing. -
Experience and Specialization:
Ensure the lawyer specializes in the area of law relevant to your case. -
Disciplinary Record:
Look up any history of disciplinary actions or complaints through the state bar association. -
Client Reviews and Testimonials:
Read reviews on legal directories like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge client satisfaction. -
Professional Memberships:
Membership in professional organizations or specialty bar associations can indicate a commitment to their field. -
Awards and Recognitions:
Honors from reputable organizations reflect expertise and a positive reputation. -
Consultation Assessment:
Use the initial consultation to evaluate their communication skills, responsiveness, and willingness to address your concerns. -
Ask for References:
A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your initial meeting with a lawyer, come prepared with:
-
Relevant Documents:
Bring all documents related to your case, such as contracts, correspondence, legal notices, court papers, or evidence. -
Written Summary:
Prepare a concise written summary of your situation, including key dates, events, and involved parties. -
List of Questions:
Write down any questions you have about your case, the legal process, or the lawyer's experience. -
Financial Information:
If applicable, bring financial documents like pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements. -
Contact Information:
Provide details of any witnesses or other parties relevant to your case. -
Personal Identification:
Bring a valid ID for verification purposes. -
Pen and Notebook:
Take notes during the consultation to remember important points. -
Budget Constraints:
Be ready to discuss your budget and any financial limitations.
How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a lawyer varies widely based on several factors:
-
Fee Structures:
-
Hourly Rate:
Lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on experience and location. -
Flat Fee:
For routine legal services like drafting a will or handling an uncontested divorce, lawyers might offer a flat fee. -
Retainer Fee:
An upfront payment against which the lawyer bills hourly fees. -
Contingency Fee:
Common in personal injury cases; the lawyer receives a percentage (typically 25% to 40%) of any settlement or award. -
Monthly Retainer:
For ongoing services, businesses might pay a monthly fee for a set number of hours or services.
-
Hourly Rate:
-
Factors Affecting Cost:
-
Complexity of the Case:
More complex cases require more time and resources, increasing costs. -
Lawyer's Experience:
Highly experienced lawyers may charge higher fees. -
Geographic Location:
Legal fees can vary significantly by region or city. -
Additional Expenses:
Court filing fees, expert witness fees, travel expenses, and administrative costs may be extra.
-
Complexity of the Case:
-
Estimating Total Costs:
Request a detailed fee agreement outlining all potential costs.
Discuss any additional expenses that may arise during the case. -
Negotiating Fees:
Some lawyers may be willing to negotiate fees or offer payment plans, especially for clients with financial constraints. -
Pro Bono Services:
For those who cannot afford legal services, some lawyers or legal aid organizations offer services at reduced rates or for free.
