Filter by

star star star star star
27 Jan, 2023 by Brenda
Max has handled two evictions for us with positive outcome. For us. The tenants not so much! Definitely recommend him. He responsive and gets the job done!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Apr, 2022 by Josepha
I hired Max to handle a very unusual and complex court case, and he went above and beyond to help me resolve a nightmare situation. He is smart, responsive, and gets the job done efficiently. I would definitely hire him again, and I highly recommend him.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
02 Feb, 2021 by Michael
I currently own multiple apartment buildings in the Capital Region, and have been using Max for about 2 years. I have been completely satisfied with the quality of his work. He is professional, respectful, detail oriented, and knowledgeable. There have been times when I have contacted him on nights and weekends and he has responded immediately. This level of service is hard to find.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
15 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Chad is a shark if you need that (I didn’t); combined with a voice of reason and gets things done. My situation was fairly straightforward and inexpensive (relatively speaking )but he and his office treated me like a VIP. He’s not just looking to bill hours and will move things along as efficiently as possible. I’ve recommended him repeatedly.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
My ex fit a certain “profile” and an excellent divorce attorney was what I needed and got. Mr. Balzer carefully chose the language, thought of and was on top of everything, and was very supportive during the entire process. I would highly recommend him.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Chad handled my divorce with great professionalism and speed. After my first meeting with him he had put my mind at ease by explaining the process and my rights. I left my marriage with my business intact and on friendly terms with my now ex-wife.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
15 Sep, 2015 by Cindy
Derrick was professional, informative and cordial. He called when he said he would and kept me totally informed. I was impressed with his capability and manner.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 May, 2014 by Kimberly
I can not even believe I got so lucky when I hired Derrick Thomas Hogan to be my attorney without knowing much about him. He was so over the too amazing in every regard that I ended up hiring him twice. He is such a brilliant lawyer with an excellent work ethic. He is entirely professional and has a beautiful heart to match how unbelievable he is. From the minute we hired him, this attorney had an abundance of knowledge and was kept in close contact with us every step of the way. Derrick Thomas Hogan is one in a million. His greatest strengths include being trustworthy, brilliant, and dedicated. He is the best attorney I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. He is worth every penny. How can we clone this attorney? He is the absolute best attorney money can buy. Do not hesitate to call anyone else. You will be so lucky if he takes your case. As a teacher, I give him an A+ in every regard.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Feb, 2014 by Diana
I am a woman who has never had to seek the counsel of a lawyer in a distressed situation. I was in an incident which forced me to attain a lawyer. Because of a lack of experience in this type of situation, I felt scared and totally alone. I went on the Internet and just looked up lawyers and found a site that stated what their mision statement was in regards to the operation of their law firm and I immediately felt "hope". I contacted them and was put in contact with a wonderful person named Derrick. I was very distraught at the time of our conversation and he never let me feel ashamed of the event. He was very professional, kind and took the time to listen with much patience. He explained the entire process to me with great diligence and understanding of the situation I was in at the time. I guess the most important thing I want to stess at this time is that in today's world, it isn't often you meet someone who takes the time to listen and respond compassionately. Derrick did all this and more. You know, it is true when people say that "something good can come out of a terrible situation. For me this was true when I came to meet and know Derrick Hogan. My situation was resolved with positive ending but most of all, my life was blessed by a young asttorney, Derrick. All I can end with is to relate with all sincerity that this attorney will bless any law firm and its clients that he associates himself with great success and prosperity. He is a man of integrity. Thank you for having this man on your staff so he could help me go through a tough situation with peace and confidence .
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
27 Apr, 2010 by Brigid
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend David to anyone. He is a very thorough, ethical, knowledgeable, well spoken attorney. At court there was no comparison to the other attorney! David outshone him in every area! He always treated me with dignity, kindness and compassion, and always made time to explain things to me in a way that I could understand. Recently I had occasion to use the firm for a real estate deal and David again- in a supervisory position for one of the associates- ( who in her own right was excellent)- was an a great resource and available for questions all the way through the transaction. I am delighted to have such a wonderful attorney in my corner and plan to call on David Siegfeld any time I need legal help.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Siegfeld helped my family with my grandmother's estate. He was able to balance the personalities of all family members in a compassionate and efficient manner to timely resolve my grandmother's estate. I would whole-heartedly recommend him to anyone!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
14 Apr, 2010 by Ross
David has been trustworthy and reliable legal council both professionally and personally.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2018 by Kathy
I hired Benjamin Hill in April-2017 to settle a labor dispute. he was extremely knowledgeable, professional, and relentless in the best way possible. he was always available and returned calls or text messages and emails promptly. the case was settled to my satisfaction within 6 months. I highly recommend his expertise, and would hire him again if the need were to present itself.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Oct, 2017 by Steve
Ben is a compassionate, caring attorney who knows the reality of the cases he handles. He was amazing and overcame some big obstacles to see my case to a successful settlement. He is awesome!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Jun, 2017 by Christine c
Ben is a GREAT attorney. I can not say enough about this mans knowledge, professionalism and all around kindness. Ben represented my minor daughter in a case of sexual abuse. He was beyond kind and understanding of our emotional needs as well as our legal needs.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
10 Dec, 2009 by Prissy
Mr. Pennock is the best lawyer I've ever had, one you would want to have on your side no matter what type of case or legal affairs you want handled. He is very thorough, honest, and detail-oriented. Nothing misses his legal eye, and the wealth of accumulated legal knowledge and experience he has in various legal areas (especially in cases where they might overlap legal boundaries) is unbeatable. He is fair in everything, including and especially his reasonable fees, and he will tell you if you are being unreasonable in your demands or if you are crossing any legal lines in any of your cases and dealings that you entrust to him. He was my lawyer for a car accident and in real estate, and the thoroughness of the advice and work that he put into both were the same even though both didn't actually pay him the same amount of money. With Mr. Pennock, it doesn't matter what job he is handling or how much the job costs: it is that he gets the job done very well with your best interests always in mind. This is also why I say he is ethical, because unlike a lot of lawyers you meet these days who may only treat you as a case (instead of a person), Mr. Pennock will tell you how your legal decisions may affect you, your family and loved ones, or the other party you are working against, always making sure you do not endanger yourself legally. Because of his work ethic, his partners and legal staff follow the same principles he has set and have the same high regard for you and the law as he himself does.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Dec, 2009 by John
we have known john pennock for about 30 years . in 1981 he defended us in an auto accident which had a positive outcome. then, in 2006 when we had a horrible life changing accident, john pennock was with us every step of the way. that also resulted in a very positive outcome which was tried in federal court. john pennock is very experienced and knowledgeable and comes to trial well prepared to win.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
John Pennock’s talent for the law is exceptional. Extraordinary trial preparation and organization, witness preparation and trial execution. I am always amazed at how he assimilates and thoroughly digests every detail of any importance. At deposition and trial, John handles every witness with great skill, persistently extracting from them good, solid, factual testimony. Jurors follow his every move in the courtroom, listening intently to his penetrating examination of witnesses, both friendly and hostile. His closing argument puts it all together for the jury in a highly effective, understandable and believable manner. He is very well regarded by the bar and the bench for his high degree of professionalism and skill. Always civil. If you need a gladiator to go to court and wage your war for you, then you need John Pennock.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
03 Feb, 2011 by Satisfied client
A good lawyer is hard to find. I engaged Mat Tully’s services about 6 months ago. I went into the case thinking I was going to be spending a lot of money for a pretentious lawyer / law firm that would end up overcharging me for very little in the end. His team of lawyers worked tirelessly on my case and helped me obtain the result I was looking for. The legal team at Tully Rinckey could handle any situation I threw at them, they worked tirelessly on my case and were courteous, respectful, compassionate, aggressive and responsive every step of the way. Mat Tully is the American dream. He left New York City after 9/11 to start a law firm by himself and has grown his business from scratch. His selfless service to our country and community is significant; he is currently a National Guard reservist. The values of service transcend to his business. If you are looking for a great lawyer, call Tully.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2011 by Janet
He took my brothers case to the United States Supreme Court and won!! He is a fighter who never gives up. I have met a lot of lawyers but I have never meet a lawyer who won before the US Supreme Court. His office has photos of him and his wife with the Chief Justice of the Court (Roberts). Hopefully we will never need to go to the Supreme Court again but if we do he is our man! One of the smartest lawyers in upstate New York.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2011 by Mike
When I got back from Iraq, I learned that I lost my job during my deployment. Mat took my case for free and got me my job back PLUS $50,000 in case and $80,000 in attorney fees. I learned AFTER he won my case that he and his firm have won more USERRA cases than EVERY OTHER LAWYER in the COUNTRY COMBINED since the law took effect in 1994 (and remember he has only been doing this since 2003). I also that he left the law to serve in Iraq in 2005 and is now a LTC. You will never have a better lawyer than LTC Tully
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
03 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Nancy was one of the lawyers I interviewed, at various legal firms, to become my health attorney when I was setting up my private health practice. During the free interview, she covered a tremendous amount of material, and explained complicated subjects, and put me at ease about my legal concerns. Since then, it has given me comfort to know that she is an email or phone call away, as the advice she gives is thorough and reassuring. She impresses me as someone who is in her profession for all the right reasons -- to help others. I highly recommend her!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
06 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I have known Nancy for over twenty years and consider her to be a most genuine, humble and loyal friend. Her generosity extends beyond the boundaries of friendship as she gets great pleasure from supporting a wide variety of organizations and people in our community. Finally, she is a true professional. The qualities that make her a great person we have found, also make her a great lawyer. My husband and I endorse Nancy in every way as a first-rate attorney.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Mar, 2014 by Mary
Ms. Sciocchetti is thorough, hard working, devoted and a pleasure to work with. Her approach is always well thought out and executed. She is a true professional who is dedicated to her clients. I would recommend her without any reservations.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
15 Jan, 2023 by Emily
When I was told I would need a disability lawyer I was nervous. I have many difficulties and needed someone who would understand. Kristen King is amazing. She made every step of the application easy. Worked with compassion and understanding. Kept me updated. Answered all my questions. And she really cares. I can’t recommend her more highly. Kristen King truly is an angel to me. And you rarely ever here lawyers referred to like that - but she is.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
18 Mar, 2015 by Phyllis
We used her services for an SSI appeal. She is extremely knowledgeable. She knew all the judges as well as how they rule on the type of case we were presenting. She explained what I needed to do as a rep payee. I have recommended her to other families who need competent representation.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
13 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr Kehoe's office reduced my 2 tickets to zero point parking violations. Well worth the price.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
I have worked with Marty on many legal matters ranging from real estate transactions to traffic tickets. He is qualified, and did the right thing, every time. I recommend Marty without hesitation.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
16 Jun, 2017 by Rich & samantha
We have had the need (unfortunately) to work with lawyers a few times at this point in our lives and the experience has typically been the same. Waiting for a call or email back, not knowing where your case stands, primarily concerned about the balance on your account, etc. Our experience with Kelly has been anything BUT what we were used to! While Kelly was assigned our case via O’Connell & Aronowitz because of a former colleague moving into a new position, we have been nothing short of amazed by her professionalism. We ALWAYS know where our case stands and she speaks candidly with us in non-legal jargon – all without making us feel inferior. When we speak with Kelly, it’s easy to feel as if we are her only clients. She goes above and beyond in her work and leaves no stone unturned. One of our favorite things about Kelly is that she will be upfront if she truly feels something should not have time wasted on it. All in all, we are thrilled to have Kelly and her support team at O&A on OUR team!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Oct, 2015 by Jean bradshaw
I have had many experiences with attorneys for various reasons throughout my lifetime. Throughout this period I have not experienced the commitment, follow-through and heart that I was fortunate enough to have in Attorney Mikullitz. It is with great pleasure that I am able to write a reference on her behalf and would recommend her as a caring and efficient attorney. At my time of greatest duress she came through. My experience with Attorney Mikullitz was exemplary.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
26 May, 2015 by John
We cannot say enough about our experience with Judy. She was very helpful and honest. She did not try to "sell" us an estate plan, but listened carefully to what we wanted and honored our wishes. Her staff were lovely and polite, and also helped us a great deal. We have already recommended this office to several of our friends, and give Judy the highest recommendation.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Mar, 2015 by Donna
I highly recommend this lawyer. She helped me last year during a very difficult time in my life. Answered all my questions in a way which I can understand, returned my phone calls and emails in a timely manner, and kept me informed on the status of the issues I had and what I needed to do and how she was handling it. She has a great personality and makes you feel comfortable from the very first meeting. Please do not hesitate to call her. You will not be sorry.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 Oct, 2010 by Robert
We have had Jim represent our company on several cases that went to trial. Jim did an excellent job both preparing for the trial and representing us during the trial. Addtionally he is an attorney that keeps you well informed during the process and always seems to be one step ahead of the other counsel.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 Oct, 2010 by Dave
Mr. Barriere represented my carrier in a very large suit involving a contractor billing dispute. His pre-trial preparation and subsequent practice in the court room was impressive, and perhaps the best I have ever witnesses. Needless to say, we prevailed.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
24 May, 2022 by Dianalynn
I am a current client and I can't say enough about my attorney and the firm. Excellent service
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Nov, 2014 by Sarah van buren, cpa
I am a current matrimonial client of Mr. Berglund's and could not be more pleased with my experience with him. He has been an excellent source of reason and advice and has handled my case most professionally. I have felt very comfortable and prepared throughout the entire process and would recommend him to anyone needing matrimonial or divorce services.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Apr, 2017 by Mark may
I hired Mr. gable for an injury case after firing the original attorney, John took care of everything and my case moved forward, along the way John was open every step of the way whenever I had questions or whenever something new came up, in the end I feel no one could have done better than we did on my case, and I am extremely happy with the outcome. I would definitely recommend John Gable.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I am an attorney and John handled a real estate workout for me in which I was a principal. In short, he was great, especially when he is before a judge, whether in conference or in the courtroom. I would recommend John without hesitation.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 May, 2021 by Jenny
Adam got all my traffic tickets dismissed. I didn’t even have to go to court!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Adam made purchasing our dream home easy and stress free. He was available anytime we had questions and really went the extra mile. We have recommended him to our friends and family.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2015 by Bill
I found David to understand my needs very quickly and to thoroughly pursue the best remedy to resolve those issues. He would always contact me to keep me informed on the latest developments in the case. it was a great relief to know David Levy represented me.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Levy and Obstarczyk handled my legal matter. They were very prompt, responsive, and honest with me throughout my case. I highly recommend this firm!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2018 by Mustafa
I hired Brendan for J-1 2-year rule waiver with fear of persecution waiver with USCIS. He was very helpful for the entire process. He answered all of my questions which was a lot, in a timely manner. He responds to the emails very quickly. He follows up about the case. Highly recommend him for your immigration applications.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2016 by Kelly
We hired Brendan to help us fill up an application for a Green Card and he was beyond professional and organised the entire time. He was very quick at responding at emails and would answer any questions we had an anytime or day. The application got approved and Brendan made the whole process easy and stress free for us. I highly recommend Brendan Venter as a lawyer in any case of immigration.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
23 Dec, 2015 by Patricia
I have not yet to personally see Danielle Riley, but she was recommended to me by a very good friend and from what we spoke about over the phone, I totally have a great amount of faith in her. She seems to be stern and as a matter of fact.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
13 Oct, 2015 by Malik
Danielle Neroni is an exceptional attorney. With regard to my personal legal challenges Danielle has represented me and my family vigorously and beyond my expectations. She is a great, patient listener and always kept our best interest in mind. She is a very practical, knowledgable, and dedicated attorney. I have and continue to highly recommend her to friends and family!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
09 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Jordan to assist with a real estate transaction. Throughout the process he was knowledgeable and professional. I would highly recommend this Attorney for any legal needs.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2018 by John
Mr Jordan was great he handled all my legal matters quickly and effeciently. Was able to have several of my tickets dropped or greatly reduced. I would reccomend him to anyone.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2017 by Kiera
Mr. Rock handled a loss mitigation for me with a very difficult lender and took all of the embarrassment away. His approach to this matter was calm and well thought out. I always felt that he had my best interests in mind. Such a great attorney to work with!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Nov, 2015 by Linda
I have had occasion to work with dozens of lawyers over the years dealing with such matters as inheritance, real estate and business issues. One lesson I have internalized is that the right attorney makes a major impact on whether or not you will achieve your legal goals. Mr. Robert J Rock is a lawyer you want in your corner. He is a brilliant, no nonsense, results-producing winner! Due to Mr. Rock's superb legal mind and comprehension of American Jurisprudence I not only prevailed against my foes but triumphed. Keeping the time clock running made all the difference in the outcome of my game plan. Thanks Mr. Rock! I am a client for life!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 May, 2015 by Colleen
I have always found Sal to be trustworthy, responsive, and knowledgeable regarding any issue I've had. Sal always keeps me informed. I am never left guessing. He is completely awesome! Thank you!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Apr, 2015 by Pat
Sal is a great personal injury lawyer. I feel Sal helped me out the best he could and always had me in his best interest. I feel that Sal treated me as he would treat his own family members when it came down to making my final decision about my case. I would recommend Sal to anyone who needs a personal injury lawyer to call him right away. Thank you Sal .
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
22 Jul, 2018 by Brock
Carolyn helped me with the code violation case in Schenectady in the summer of 2017 everything worked out. She has also helped my real estate business with other legal services over the years. We have referred her to many clients. Carolyn is extremely responsive to emails/calls.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
16 Jul, 2010 by Juliann
Attorney Mchugh has handled several matters for myself, friends and my family members over the past 5 years. Real Estate, Criminal, Divorce, and Personal injury matters. He is a very competent attorney and I would highly recommend him.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Very professional and easy to work with.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
12 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
well informed went above and beyond
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Jan, 2018 by Rose oropallo
I highly recommend Attorney Paul Davenport! We were victims of a Federal Crime. Our identity, a million dollar home, our family destroyed and everything we owned stolen. Our credit was ruined and we were left financially dead. We hired another Attorney (not Attorney Paul Davenport) whom made a hot mess of the entire case. We fired that attorney after almost 4 years of doing little to help us after spending tens of thousands of dollars. We moved our case to Attorney Paul Davenport of Lombardi, Walsh, Davenport and Amodeo, P.C. In two months time, he did more than the former Attorney did in nearly 4 years. He saved our lives! Literally! His work ethic is for real. He does what he say's he is going to do. You don't have to babysit it! You don't have to call to see what is happening. He does it! He keeps you informed! He is competent! He is smart! He is an A+ Litigator. He does Discovery for preparation for trial in a manner that few do. He does it right! He is worth EVERY penny we spent! We are not someone of great financial means and paying him was a huge sacrifice, but it is the "peace of mind" you cannot put a price tag on? After hiring him, I let it go and let him do his job and we slept for the first time in years. He never let us down! He is man of his word. One day I emailed him and said, "Win this!" "Do the best you can!" His response was, "it's the only way I know how!" It made me cry. If you knew what we had been through, you would understand. He is our Attorney for LIFE! I highly recommend Paul Davenport of Lombardi, Walsh, Davenport and Amodeo law firm. If you have a legal issue. You cannot find a better Attorney!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2016 by Brenda
We used Matthew Cocca, attorney in a divorce case complicated by child custody issues. His communication skills were excellent. Messages and questions were always answered in a timely manner. Mr. Cocca was professional, personable and provided excellent representation. Costs were affordable and fair....Can't thank him enough!!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
14 Mar, 2013 by Charlie
After not getting any good results on my own, I hired Pam to represent me in a personal injury case. Her professionalism and knowledge of the law was very impressive. Pam gave me a realistic value of what the case was worth and fought to get that amount in the end. She was also not afraid to leave the first mediation when the offers were less than we wanted. She kept my best interest first and foremost through out the case and I thank her for that. I would recommend Pam to any one in need of an attorney.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
15 Jul, 2017 by K
Mr. O'hern fought extremely hard for me since the day I hired him. Both times. He Got my felony reduced to a misdemeanor and got me off on other things. Very satisfied
Read more Avvo
See more
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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. What is your approach to handling cases like mine?
    Learn about their strategy, whether they prefer negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
  5. 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.
  6. How will you communicate with me throughout the process?
    Establish expectations for updates, preferred communication methods, and response times.
  7. What is the likely timeline for resolving my case?
    Get an estimate of how long the process may take from start to finish.
  8. Do you have references from past clients?
    Testimonials or references can provide insight into the lawyer's professionalism and effectiveness.
  9. What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
    Understanding potential challenges helps you prepare and sets realistic expectations.
  10. 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:

  1. Verify Their License:
    Check with your state's bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and in good standing.
  2. Experience and Specialization:
    Ensure the lawyer specializes in the area of law relevant to your case.
  3. Disciplinary Record:
    Look up any history of disciplinary actions or complaints through the state bar association.
  4. Client Reviews and Testimonials:
    Read reviews on legal directories like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge client satisfaction.
  5. Professional Memberships:
    Membership in professional organizations or specialty bar associations can indicate a commitment to their field.
  6. Awards and Recognitions:
    Honors from reputable organizations reflect expertise and a positive reputation.
  7. Consultation Assessment:
    Use the initial consultation to evaluate their communication skills, responsiveness, and willingness to address your concerns.
  8. 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:

  1. Relevant Documents:
    Bring all documents related to your case, such as contracts, correspondence, legal notices, court papers, or evidence.
  2. Written Summary:
    Prepare a concise written summary of your situation, including key dates, events, and involved parties.
  3. List of Questions:
    Write down any questions you have about your case, the legal process, or the lawyer's experience.
  4. Financial Information:
    If applicable, bring financial documents like pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements.
  5. Contact Information:
    Provide details of any witnesses or other parties relevant to your case.
  6. Personal Identification:
    Bring a valid ID for verification purposes.
  7. Pen and Notebook:
    Take notes during the consultation to remember important points.
  8. 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
Scroll to top