Filter by

star star star star star
05 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
We hired Lynn Krause to handle the purchase of our home in the Annapolis area. We were from New York. We were told we didn't need an attorney, but decided to hire one anyway. He performed a title search on our behalf and was supposed make sure there was a clean title on the home we were purchasing. NOT UNTIL WE WERE IN KRAUSE'S OFFICE IN ANNAPOLIS AT THE DAY OF THE CLOSING TO PURCHASE THE NEW HOME, DID HE TELL US THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE TITLE. IT REVEALED THAT THE DRIVEWAY WAS ACTUALLY ABOUT 10 FEET ONTO THE NEIGHBORS PROPERTY! Krause never called to inform us of the defective title. After moving out of our apartment, we were in Lynn Krause's office at the closing and had to go through with the purchase since we had nowhere to live. We have since discovered the he was on the Board of Directors of the title company at that time. This seems like a conflict of interest. PS: It's about ten years since the purchase and we have been unable to sell the home because no one wants to buy it with this title issue.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2014 by Be afraid
Do not use Jasen Adams. I cannot stress this enough. Mr. Adams does not practice; he malpractices. The statements and examples shown below are from verifiable events. 1. Mr. Adams does not follow up with clients supposedly because he is busy with cases, but he also misses court deadlines. In my case, he missed two key deadlines. If you cannot read a scheduling order and do not enjoy chasing down your own lawyer, give careful consideration to hiring Mr. Adams. His secretary can easily keep you apprised at no cost to you. 2. Mr. Adams increases his rates exponentially, but he fails to send notices about said increases. I feel he charged me for empty hours he could not fill with legitimate client work, basically because he has few clients. 3. Mr. Adams should send monthly invoices, but he does not do so. Yet the language in his engagement agreement gives the client a one-month window in which to contest the current invoice. In my case, Mr. Adams continually told me that absolutely nothing was going on in my matter, which told me that most of my retainer was intact; no bill=no charges, right? Mr. Adams did fabricate invoices when he was required to produce them, still claiming he had treated his fictional invoices as correct because I did not contest them. I cannot contest invoices I do not receive. Mr. Adams has no problem “fabricating” in general. He is passive-aggressive. 4. Mr. Adams does not keep accurate records of client payments. In my case, Mr. Adams claimed I owed him money, and that I had not paid amounts I knew I had paid him. Again, he also did not send invoices and did very little work. My retainers should have been substantially intact. He was quite comfortable as long as I could not locate statements for a credit card I had not used in years. Mr. Adams may be surprised to know that I finally found the statements in storage, and the statements are incontrovertible evidence that Mr. Adams lied to me and to others; he charged my card thousands of dollars for which he has never given an accounting. He is on record as stating I never paid him these amounts. His are the only transactions on these statements. Mr. Adams stole from me, kept inaccurate records and violated his ethical responsibility to use an escrow account. 5. When Mr. Adams his invoices, he charged me $100-or-more per hour for paralegal duties he claimed his secretary/receptionist had performed. There are no legitimate paralegal tasks on my bill such as legal research, subpoenas, reviewing medical records or preparing legal documents. Xerox copying and hole-punching are not paralegal tasks. If you are desperate enough or naive enough to consider Jasen D. Adams as your advocate, don't. He will look you in the eye, eff up your case and rob you blind all at the same time. Staring at my credit card statements and the lies Mr. Adams had the gall to put in writing, I will be seeking a refund of the money he somehow lost through attorney oversight channels or the court or the Maryland Attorney Grievance Commission. Do not put yourself in my shoes. You will be sorry. The most disturbing aspect of this is that Mr. Adams is the managing partner over a group of attorneys, so he can modify every bill that goes out of his office to his own benefit. Beware.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either. The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either. The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either. The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either. The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either. The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either. The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either. The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either. The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either. The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either. The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Lorena campos
My husband was the victim of a vicious assault. State Attorney Shane Nolan was on top of my husband’s case and kept us informed throughout the process. Ms.Stephanie in the attorneys office followed up and reached out during this ordeal and at no point did I feel we weren’t a priority for them. While they take on an enormous amount of cases and I did have to follow up on some things, which we should also advocate and stay up to date on things and not let them take it all on , they did an incredible job and justice was served for my husband. I see some reviews that people didn’t get a phone call or an email. We never received anything in writing but again we the victims must advocate and do the work too, case search is free, the dockets are posted the day before and court dates can be found online, we can not expect the States Attorney’s office to be our personal assistant. Also for other victims please know you’re not alone the MD Crime Victims Resource Center was a great help as well in our case. The Anne Arundel County States Attorney’s Office did exceptional and we thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2024 by Gordon blackstone
I was beat up by my kids mother bleeding from the head and knee when all I was trying to do was pick my kids up witch is court order they officer took pictures and never came court plus the state never even called me about the case they threw her case out bout said they going to go through with the charge she press on me after the state press charges on her glen Jessi rivera-ruz did not do her job at all !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2024 by Joseph thumel
Don't get robbed at gun point by a state attorneys father. They'll give you petty sentence instead of an apology. I got robbed of at least 1100.00 in tools, developed ptsd, got a 30 day sentence, one year probation, an appeal bond paid with no release of incarceration and no refund for that bond either. The guy even thanks his daughter (states attorney which I don't have to name), for the verdict in his victim advocate speech. I acquired testimony. It's all there! Sorry for giving one star on the review. This organization deserves less in my opinion.
Read more Google Maps
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