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06 Mar, 2024 by Lyric rose
Even with proof (medical records, video and audio recordings etc.) that one of their employees was an abuser to his dying wife and their children this firm still decided to keep said lawyer; Allen Kassenoff employed with them. Do not spend any of your money or time with this law firm, go somewhere that actually values the truth and values making decisions that are morally right.
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22 Oct, 2023 by Франк
“The more I fought to show these materials to the public and to the Courts, the more I was punished for daring to make such accusations against a rich, white man and Greenberg Traurig shareholder. I had to get four different doctors to confirm that, in fact, I did not suffer from any mental illnesses. It was not enough, apparently, that I had no history of mental illness, and had been vetted for much of my adult life by both the state and federal governments when I worked as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of New York and Special Counsel to the Governor of New York and had never had any episodes or diagnoses of mental condition. “Over the last 4 years, I was constantly proving and re-proving myself and being discredited and disbelieved by the courts over the man with the agenda to protect his false image, who was willing to lie to cover up the truth about himself, and who was willing to use his children to do so.”
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25 Apr, 2023 by Patrick odonnell
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06 Mar, 2024 by Lyric rose
Even with proof (medical records, video and audio recordings etc.) that one of their employees was an abuser to his dying wife and their children this firm still decided to keep said lawyer; Allen Kassenoff employed with them. Do not spend any of your money or time with this law firm, go somewhere that actually values the truth and values making decisions that are morally right.
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22 Oct, 2023 by Франк
“The more I fought to show these materials to the public and to the Courts, the more I was punished for daring to make such accusations against a rich, white man and Greenberg Traurig shareholder. I had to get four different doctors to confirm that, in fact, I did not suffer from any mental illnesses. It was not enough, apparently, that I had no history of mental illness, and had been vetted for much of my adult life by both the state and federal governments when I worked as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of New York and Special Counsel to the Governor of New York and had never had any episodes or diagnoses of mental condition. “Over the last 4 years, I was constantly proving and re-proving myself and being discredited and disbelieved by the courts over the man with the agenda to protect his false image, who was willing to lie to cover up the truth about himself, and who was willing to use his children to do so.”
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25 Apr, 2023 by Patrick odonnell
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06 Mar, 2024 by Lyric rose
Even with proof (medical records, video and audio recordings etc.) that one of their employees was an abuser to his dying wife and their children this firm still decided to keep said lawyer; Allen Kassenoff employed with them. Do not spend any of your money or time with this law firm, go somewhere that actually values the truth and values making decisions that are morally right.
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22 Oct, 2023 by Франк
“The more I fought to show these materials to the public and to the Courts, the more I was punished for daring to make such accusations against a rich, white man and Greenberg Traurig shareholder. I had to get four different doctors to confirm that, in fact, I did not suffer from any mental illnesses. It was not enough, apparently, that I had no history of mental illness, and had been vetted for much of my adult life by both the state and federal governments when I worked as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of New York and Special Counsel to the Governor of New York and had never had any episodes or diagnoses of mental condition. “Over the last 4 years, I was constantly proving and re-proving myself and being discredited and disbelieved by the courts over the man with the agenda to protect his false image, who was willing to lie to cover up the truth about himself, and who was willing to use his children to do so.”
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25 Apr, 2023 by Patrick odonnell
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06 Mar, 2024 by Lyric rose
Even with proof (medical records, video and audio recordings etc.) that one of their employees was an abuser to his dying wife and their children this firm still decided to keep said lawyer; Allen Kassenoff employed with them. Do not spend any of your money or time with this law firm, go somewhere that actually values the truth and values making decisions that are morally right.
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22 Oct, 2023 by Франк
“The more I fought to show these materials to the public and to the Courts, the more I was punished for daring to make such accusations against a rich, white man and Greenberg Traurig shareholder. I had to get four different doctors to confirm that, in fact, I did not suffer from any mental illnesses. It was not enough, apparently, that I had no history of mental illness, and had been vetted for much of my adult life by both the state and federal governments when I worked as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of New York and Special Counsel to the Governor of New York and had never had any episodes or diagnoses of mental condition. “Over the last 4 years, I was constantly proving and re-proving myself and being discredited and disbelieved by the courts over the man with the agenda to protect his false image, who was willing to lie to cover up the truth about himself, and who was willing to use his children to do so.”
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25 Apr, 2023 by Patrick odonnell
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Paul T. Devane, experienced  attorney in Albany, NY with 11 reviews
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2.8/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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3.0
10 Reviews
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17 Jun, 2024 by Shawn vanbramer
A fair public defender.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Shawn rosko
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26 Feb, 2024 by Lee lee jones
I had the pleasure of John Dejohn representing me and let me tell you, he was absolutely amazing. He was super professional, extremely precise, and very welcoming. I was super nervous about my case until I was assigned John! Every worried feeling I had, he took it right away! If I ever needed anyone to represent me again(although i don’t ever plan to be in trouble again lol), i would request John in a heartbeat! Literally amazing! Theres nothing like being able to sleep at night knowing your public defender has got your back and really has your best interest at heart. What an amazing and extremely dedicated person he is! John was available any time, any day and i appreciate that so much given all the cases he probably had. Im so happy with my case outcome and I have John to thank for that! Trust me, if you have the choice, def request him! & Thank me later! 😊
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18 Mar, 2022 by Jessica duck
This man is a criminal. He provides slum housing for college kids in the capital region, and gas become a joke in court with expired ROPs, failure to provide safe and functional living spaces, and just an all out travesty of a human being. His anger and arrogant attitude make him the poster child of what it means to be an evil lawyer. Beware!
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09 Dec, 2020 by Jennifer meyer
I've used the Haddad law firm for several legal situations over the course of nearly 15 years... closing on a sale of business, closing on buying my home, subsequently closing on selling my home, two traffic related incidents, and managing the estate of my Grandmother. Everyone there was extremely friendly, polite, professional and sympathetic to my situation.
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06 Jul, 2020 by Lana
Pam was great in handling the closing on our house in April. She not only answered her phone and explained everything to us. She went above and beyond by bringing me all the bank papers to me when I was hospitalized out of town so we could get the house we wanted in a timely manner. Much of her work was done during the pandemic when most banks and courts were closed or working remotely. Pam is very professional and has a great personality. We would recommend her highly.
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19 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
My family has utilized Mr. Jerome for various matters. He has always been quite inciteful and helpful on a very professional level. He is willing to go the distance and resolve each matter in the most amicable manner and with a focus on our interests. I can appreciate a busy schedule and understand some things take time as well as the "legal process". Mr. Jerome has always kept us informed each step of the way and enlightened us on current issues and events to help us understand how our legal issue would proceed and what we could expect in terms of time constraints, time frames, etc. We would certainly recommend Mr. Jerome and use him again should the situation ever arise.
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28 Dec, 2011 by Anonymous
We hired this attorney to represent us in a legal issue with a building contractor. With modern technology you would think making contact with your client would be easier. It would take several phone message and email messages before he would respond. He sent a demand letter out in the regular mail, he didn’t remember the date he sent the letter, also did not send it Certified Mail, so we have no idea the other party received the letter Received an email after two months of trying to work with this attorney that he didn’t have enough time to dedicate to our legal issue, we wasted time and money.
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25 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
This lawyer isn't worth a penny, not even a star. He does not keep promises and is not reliable. Judgment - death penalty and that's where he lets you die
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21 Sep, 2019 by Michelle snyder
i needed him to help me with a sexual harrassment case with a big corporation and he help me win it he believed in me and i believed in him he is a amazing lawyer and i would refer him to anyone
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10 Feb, 2019 by Kathy
Mr. Schlenker took my case at an exorbitant fixed (not to exceed) rate, and reminded me on countless occasions thereafter how it was a bargain for the amount of work involved. He joked (or not?) with the DA's assistant about their skillfulness, offering him a job, and failed to follow through with defending the case with the truth, instead going off in a direction that was more of a rebuttal of the prosecutors fabrication of events, and consequently, a waste of time and money. No integrity. No 'people skills'. Lacks professionalism.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Sean
Called the firm because I needed a lawyer, was told they charge 150$ just to speak to the lawyer. Pay it fine whatever kinda sad they need to charge for a consultation but it is what it is. Problem I have is I didn't receive a phone call from this belsky, sure did get the emails wanting a survey and they sure took my money. Do not. Do not use this firm. Worst I've seen
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28 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Be warned! Michael J. Belsky is absolutely the worst lawyer money can buy. He is rude, arrogant and lazy. You’re guaranteed to lose your case, even after paying him and his law firm exorbitantly. Hire him at your own peril!
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11 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Michael Belsky is one of the worst lawyers I have ever hired. He is very rude and abnoxious and does not keep you informed about what is going on. I was hoping that Mr. Belsky would fight for me and help me get more in my case but he didn't seem very interested in fighting and putting in the extra effort. He left me totally in the dark about my case and I was totally dissatisfied with the outcome. He was slow to get back when I called and when he did get back he seemed annoyed, short, and condescending. I would never use him again or recommend him or Tully Rinkey to anyone. They are very overpriced, do not listen to or keep their clients informed and you walk away feeling like you did not get your money's worth. Do not, I repeat do not use this firm. You will leave with your head down and have a much lighter wallet. This firm doesn't care about their clients they just care about the money they can get from you.
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06 Jun, 2013 by John
When I hired Mr. Dennis Habel to contest my mother's fake will I thought I was getting a good lawyer. I did NOT receive any help at all. He was not knowledgeable in a parent's complex estate case, he was very expensive, and did not keep me informed as the case moved very, very slowly because of his lack of commitment. I finally had to fire him and go with a different attorney. Please do not make the same mistake as I did in hiring this lazy man.
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04 Dec, 2012 by Max
I have always been afraid of just find a lawyer out of the phone book so I asked some friends to recommend someone, it was Dennis. He was very professional and he is knowledgeable. I would hire him again and highly recommend him.
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19 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Was totally ripped off of 9,000.00 $. Was the worst lawyer I ever had. NEVER did a thing in my behalf. Did lots for the other side though. Didn't follow thru, didn't return calls. overpriced, bad advice, lied, and just a mess that i had to live with. I did complain to the state. But, the damge this man already did was huge.
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06 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
There is not enough terrible things I can say about this women. She is extremely rudimentary, has zero understanding of the law, acts completely belligerent in court, and drags out cases for her own financial gains. To say she is unprofessional is an understatement. I would’ve been better off representing myself. No wonder several law firms have fired her in the past 5 years.
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09 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Erika was highly unprofessional during a divorce case. She refused to return calls to the lawyers, was mouthy and highly unprofessional with the magistrate. On top of that- she dragged out the case which I am assuming was for money. To the point that both parties had to return to court after a year of no returned phone calls etc. Erika was fired from that law firm. I do NOT recommend her.
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17 Jun, 2019 by Lynda
Erica Waters Did not look out for my best interest. In a divorce case with over a million dollars in assets,which she assured me she would fight for at trial, she then intimidated and coerced me to sign an agreement when I was clearly under severe duress. She lied about aspects of the agreement and just took my payment of over $10,000 but did nothing. She cost me to lose hundreds of thousands of dollars and left myself and 3 children in poverty. I had to move out of a house I paid for and she did nothing to procure payments of child support expenses that were needed. Then she refused to accept my calls or emails unless I paid her another $4000! She is unethical, does not follow through on anything, doesnt return calls/emails in timely manner and does not care about her clients best interests. Her actions will affect me for the rest of my life!
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25 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
All around horrible experience. If anything, she made things significantly worse for me and my children.
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07 Dec, 2021 by Francesco
i am recently divorced , and although i didn't always like or understand Eileen's methods but am i glad that she didn't give up on me, After being displaced from my home for a year while another man lived in my house with my ex wife and her and his children as i payed the bills Eileen got me the justice i deserved! when i thought the world was against me at my darkest moments in life she helped me pull thru! i still get emotional as i type this and talk about it today. she truly saved me! the system i felt (and still do) is broken! i am so lucky to have had the help of Attorney Eileen Marie Stiglmeier , who i can say has PROVED ME WRONG in my assumption that all lawyers are sharks and thieves she sure as hell IS NOT!
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16 May, 2019 by Connie
After a recommendation through an experienced family court attorney, I hired Ms. Stiglmeier after filing a petition to enforce a separation and opting out agreement that survived my divorce. A month after I filed this, my ex husband went to court and requested emergency custody on false allegations and domestic violence allegations I had with another individual that did not occur when I had my children and my children never met this person. I contacted police and police did not arrest. Subsequently, attorney for the children and judge (agreeing with AFC, which is not allowed), said due to my “poor decision making I’m not having the man arrested.” My children were immediately removed from my physical custody with a no contact order and he received temporary full custody. Ms. Stiglmeier (I have full evidence to support these claims) told me to sign documents that the courts afterward deemed me to have waived my right to my $30,000 in maintenance, child support, and primary custody...she also caused me to miss an appearance in a support matter. She was always unavailable an in open court acknowledged not reading a significant part of my separation and opting out agreement specifically detailing custody, even though she charged me for review of such. 5 years later and I am still fighting for my children and the irreparable harm caused by her ineffective counsel. My ex husband would hold visitation against me if I didn’t sign subsequent agreements, and she never responded or defended such. My ex husband said he hoped she was stupid enough not to read the agreement and didn’t realize she actually was...
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08 Aug, 2024 by Former client 2023
Disrespectful. Over her head, which in combination with an ailing parent, leaves you, the client, with no true representation... Buyer beware.
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31 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
She did nothing to help my case during my divorce and there was a lot she could’ve done. An absolute terrible, terrible divorce attorney. Please, do not consider.
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13 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
If I could give her negative stars, I would. She is the most arrogant, incompetent attorney in the Capital Region. From the word go, she dropped the ball with everything. I should have done my divorce myself, I would have gotten a better result.
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10 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
This lawyer did NOT do what I had asked. Divorce was uncontested, simple, my husband wanted a divorce, he was turning house over to me, I wanted my name back to my maiden name, wanted and was told the new deed would be in MY MAIDEN NAME. Long story short, I gave a retainer of $1,500.00, charged more to come to roughly $2000.00. My decree had the wrong name on it, my deed is in my married name and the decree came ripped and her letter head had a water stain on it. I paid for this. Hope she enjoyed my money. Would be zero if that were an option.
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22 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I have a theory that if you hire an attorney, they work for you. Andrea does not return phone messages or emails. When sending her a written letter requesting an update AND phone call.....30 days later I get an updated invoice. Then 6 wks from the date if my first letter I get a CC of a 3 line letter to the opposing attorney. Waited 4 more weeks....wrote another letter clearly telling her what my expectations were and requesting a call back. No response after another month. Called office and left 2 more voice mails...no call back. Sent her an email....now 10 days later STILL no response. Office staff isn't helpful. My divorce is pretty simple.... separated well over 20 yrs and no young children!!
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20 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Expensive clown who acts like he knows no law regulations and rules. Wasted $ and time. Avoid this guy.
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30 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
If I didn't fire him I would have gotten a feloney,and went to jail. Charged me money for my own files to give to another lawyer.
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17 Dec, 2020 by Ahmad arian
Very disrespectful and bad phone service. She hanged up on me first and when I called back she started yelling on me.
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03 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
I fired him. Couldn’t stand him. Todd Tidgewell was curt, surly, and arrogant from the moment that he first deigned to answer his phone. Was totally nonchalant about taking my case. Didn't listen. Gave bad advice and put me on the back burner for weeks, not returning emails and calls (after being paid his retainer)… That's how he'll treat you. You're just a faceless loser client to him. All ego and anger and no substance. Clearly has a personality disorder. He's not important enough to deal with, save yourself the hassle.
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23 Mar, 2018 by Douglas
I hired Esquire Paglia because I needed a knowledgeable legal advocate to handle the case against me by the New York Medical Board. Unfortunately Esq Paglia answered nearly all of my questions with some variant of 'I don't know', or 'let me ask opposing counsel and tell you what they think'. The only advocacy going on seemed to be her advocating the Medical Boards position with me. She might make an adequate paralegal, but I would strongly discourage anyone from hiring her to represent them in dealing with the medical board unless they just want an over priced message passer.
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07 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Do you want your lawyer cavorting with future insurrectionists? Do you prefer that they’ve disrupted federal elections? Been given 2 DWIs, one while married and with a 24yr old on his lap WHILE driving? John Edward Sweeney is your man. Google Brooks Brothers Riots. This man should be in prison in Russia, let alone free to practice law in the state of NY.
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26 Nov, 2012 by Vebra
Mr.McNamara has been my fiance's lawyer for 6 months and we have only seen and spoken to him twice there has been several court dates in which Mr.McNamara did not attend.I have made many attempts to call/leave messages none of which was returned Mr.McNamara then decided he was too busy for my fiance's case and passed it too one of his colleages without letting either me or my Fiance know anything we found out on the last givin court date that Mr,McNamara was to busy to handle my fiance case .Mr.McNamara's action's from the beginning have been very unprofessional and inconsiderate i would not under any circumstances reccomend Mr.McNamara to anyone for any Legal help
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07 Feb, 2024 by Irene
This “lawyer” sent me a letter but when I try and respond he has NO voicemail and NO secretary. Don’t send a THREATENING letter with no way to respond…. Is he even real???
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07 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Doesn’t have morals and doesn’t care about the affects. But hey! Maybe she’s a great attorney, but personally I know things and I don’t need this crisis . Get your morals in tact
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06 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
YOU CANN HIRE TIS LAWYER HE IS NIT ALWYER HE ONLY CLERKOF HUMAN RIGHTS OFOCE HE DO NIT KNOW LAW HE HAS FORGOTTOEN THE LAW ALL OTOGETHER JUST SITS THEIR AND COLLECT A CHECK
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21 Aug, 2023 by Rich
Once his fee is paid, does bare minimum and is unresponsive to emails and phone calls. It took me sending certified return receipt letters to him, the court, and the trustee to get some answers to questions. If I get answers 95% of the time they are incomplete and/or inaccurate. If I send an email, I have to follow up multiple times. More than a month can go by with sending follow ups, and still won't get an answer. Was patient when this happened during the pandemic considering everything going on but, that's not an issue now and, still very unresponsive. Phone calls get answered buy an assistant who says they'll forward the messages on to him because he's in court but, then a phone call is never returned 99.99% of the time. Documents needed by trustee on annual basis one year did not get submitted or addressed by him for a whole entire year after they were due. He got paid thousands of dollars and, does work that is truly worth a fraction of what he got paid. True feeling that after he gets his money, he doesn't care about the hardship created for his clients or letting them know what's going on.
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22 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Mismanages client funds and is not transparent. Misses court deadlines and does not care at all about how his actions affect others.
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16 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I have worked with many attorneys and I wouldn't hire this guy to wash my car let alone represent my legal interests. When you ask a question he makes up an answer instead of telling you he needs to research it. He says "uh" every other word and clearly needs a few classes in English, as well as 3 more years in law school.
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25 Apr, 2023 by Robert
Awful experience! Zero professionalism or communication! She is very disrespectful and rude! Please read her reviews everywhere! Terrible
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18 Mar, 2022 by Jennelle
She has a attiudie i dont like her i would like another lawyer for my daughter
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10 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms Proskin had my case and wasted valuable time while the statute of limitation was running out. She is often unavailable and is more of a part time lawyer. I was wise enough to take my case away from her and find another lawyer prior to the statute running out but it was very difficult because she wasted so much time. It was very irresponsible of her and I was critically ill due to medical malpractice during this time when I needed an attorney to do their job responsibly.
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14 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Made mistake of retaining Solomon firm for settlement conference (SC) bc initially positive discussions with Solomon, from whom I repeatedly requested representation for case and/or settlement conference - which had been initially suggested by another attorney, whom I retained bc Solomon firm wouldn’t actually respond either way for weeks, who would have charged hourly and allowed me to ask questions beyond SC. When NF sent SC retainer (not until the week before SC), I asked to actually speak with NF first before switching representation, but firm wouldn’t allow without executed retainer and $. With NF/AS, you need another attorney to protect you from your own attorney - I wouldn’t have hired if had realized NF had actually drafted $5k ***flat fee*** retainer just for *last-minute traipsing* into “day-long” SC (the only flat fee retainer I’ve ever personally seen/received). Another firm would have charged only $2500 retainer for hourly consumption AND wanted report of investigation and other case documents, about which NF/Solomon firm never actually cared; another even wanted to pre-read ROI before initial consult (but then got covid and couldn’t help). Not until the afternoon before SC, NF unilaterally wanted to reduce settlement demand from $75k to $15k, which was insulting. Reminding me (as a woman) of a guy who won’t take no for an answer, NF called me right before SC “to be sure we were on same page” even though I never affirmatively responded that I wanted to speak with her after it became apparent that she would simply give up all of my rights in order to “settle”. During the hour right before SC (and all the way until final “settlement agreement”), Solomon/NF started threatening to break up with me. Having my own “attorney” repeatedly threatening to break up with me made me want to ‘settle” just bc intolerable situation. But even though NF falsely claimed that she would stand up for me even though providing candid advice privately, she NEVER actually stood up for me. And refused to intervene or answer any questions beyond SC, even when I was requesting abeyance of case deadlines in order to increase chances of good-faith settlement (bc Agency intentionally had me backed up against wall). NO “opening statement” in SC. NF DID NOT CARE about my ongoing concerns about mediator treating parties differently (repeatedly refusing to intervene or advocate on my behalf, despite repeated requests), that “settlement terms” were not even consistent with laws that Agency wasn’t following in first place (mediator [herself an attorney] actually ended up advising). NF herself provided absolutely NO comment on the “final settlement agreement,” for which she asserted I would require assistance while she was repeatedly threatening to terminate after I had already burned $5k. NF’s “thank you for your cooperation” was only after I had to keep repeating myself just for her, only because she didn’t actually listen or care about anything I had said on my own behalf during previous day. NF advised me to choose between Agency’s “bad or worse” options, both of which I rejected in order to fight/assert that Agency should be willing to uphold its own word. If didn’t settle, NF/AS refused to help me, so I was stuck with either accept whatever Agency is willing to “offer” or nothing (i.e., lose-lose). Stupidly burned $5k “flat fee” only to be the ONLY ONE actually advocating for myself. Entire paltry $10k “settlement” for 3 years of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation (and chronic suicidal ideation) goes (after taxes) almost entirely to settlement “attorneys” who didn’t actually do anything. Honestly NF/AS made me feel like I might as well have hired opposing counsel. Didn’t actually care about concerns, just don’t want to hear them. The only beneficiaries of imaginary “civil rights laws” are attorneys who waste billable hours.
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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.
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    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?
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  10. Are there alternative ways to solve my legal problem?
    Discuss options like mediation, arbitration, or settlement to resolve the issue efficiently.

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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.
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  7. Consultation Assessment:
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  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.
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