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01 Nov, 2024 by Savannah traynham
This company rocks! We went through Boswell and Dunlap to close on our home with our mortgage company since we did not use a realtor. We worked directly with Sean and Dawn, two really amazing people and they got the job done! Thank you again for making our first time home buying experience a breeze :)
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02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
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01 Nov, 2024 by Savannah traynham
This company rocks! We went through Boswell and Dunlap to close on our home with our mortgage company since we did not use a realtor. We worked directly with Sean and Dawn, two really amazing people and they got the job done! Thank you again for making our first time home buying experience a breeze :)
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02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
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01 Nov, 2024 by Savannah traynham
This company rocks! We went through Boswell and Dunlap to close on our home with our mortgage company since we did not use a realtor. We worked directly with Sean and Dawn, two really amazing people and they got the job done! Thank you again for making our first time home buying experience a breeze :)
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02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
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01 Nov, 2024 by Savannah traynham
This company rocks! We went through Boswell and Dunlap to close on our home with our mortgage company since we did not use a realtor. We worked directly with Sean and Dawn, two really amazing people and they got the job done! Thank you again for making our first time home buying experience a breeze :)
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
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11 Apr, 2023 by Liliana rubio
Please do not trust this law group they did not do anything for me except kept charging me 1000 each month without doing anything. They did not tell me I have to pay each month and I even questioned it before signing and they said no and that they should not take long that it will not be much time. Well, that was not the case it was more than 6 months and I had to pay every month or else they will not do anything for me. They totally stole my money and when I had to lost my home since they did not do anything for me, they wrote a letter to the escrow to take the remaindering balance off the sale without telling me nothing. Please please please dont trust these lawyers.
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31 Mar, 2023 by Joe petkoff
20 Nov, 2022 by Jasmine bracero
01 Apr, 2024 by Amanda
I originally hired Mr. Dicks in early January, 2024 for a very important emergency custody situation due to the death of a relative. I detailed out all of the necessary information for this, which included working with an immigration attorney that I retained as well (about a month or so later). Upon my initial consultation, I met with Connie who at the time, I assumed was an associate attorney since she never identified herself as a paralegal until the very end. Its my understanding that a paralegal cannot or should not offer legal advice, but since she was acting as an attorney by answering the legal questions I had (and giving me the retainer fee), I was very surprised to learn she in fact is not an attorney. I expressed how important it was to get this petition filed rapidly since we have another layer of immigration law that needs to be factored in. Over the next 2 ½ (almost 3) months, I inquired at least weekly to get a status update. I was given the following excuses: Mr. Dicks is in court all week, Mr. Dicks is researching this case to make sure he gets it right (even after he was coached by the immigration attorney on what is needed), I (Connie) had an emergency, Mr. Dicks is on vacation, I (Connie) am sick, neither Connie nor Mr. Dicks is in the office, etc. Towards the end of these 2 ½ months, I started to convey my frustration since NO tangible work had been completed. I spent $2,500 for a retainer and nothing was produced after 2 ½ months. Finally, out of nowhere, I was sent a petition that was littered with errors including the misspelling of our names, etc. I fixed the errors myself, and got it notarized and then returned it to Connie for filing. A WEEK LATER, I follow up to see if the petition was filed – I was texted that it had been filed, however, we are waiting on a judge. What Mr. Dicks and Ms. Connie doesn’t realize is that I have a log in for the Polk County Clerk of Courts, and I have acted as my own attorney (successfully) a few times in the past, and I’ve drafted and filed my own petitions. The petition they sent me was nothing like it was supposed to be, but I ignored my inner voice since I’m no attorney. Well, I started to do some digging and realized I was LIED to. That petition was never filed, and it was not drafted correctly. I immediately fired Mr. Dicks and hired an attorney I’ve worked with in the past. In less than 2 weeks, my new attorney met with my immigration attorney, AND drafted an amazing petition to be filed. When I fired Mr. Dicks, I demanded for my retainer money to be returned. Out of the $2,500 I paid, I only got back $1,000. I have no idea what I paid $1,500 for because I was never given any kind of detailed bill. I have proof in writing of all these claims. I am beyond frustrated, disappointed, and down right pi$$ed that he wasted not only my time, but also my money!!!!! Apparently that $1,500 that he kept was for him to educate himself on how to draft a half a$$ petition for custody!
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08 Aug, 2017 by Clay
I hired Michael Dicks for a divorce case after having consultations from several other popular and revered attorneys from larger or higher profile law offices. I left out of each of these consultations with a few hundred dollars less in my pocket, an uneasy feeling, and the realization that I would not be able to financially afford to fight my divorce to the end without just giving up and giving in.
I had a friend refer me to Michael Dicks and his paralegal, Connie Brookes. My friend hired them for his divorce and had nothing but glowing comments about this team. I had a consultation with Michael and Connie and they took the time to listen, ask questions, answer questions and inform me of what I could and should expect. I walked out of their office feeling like a prayer had been answered and a huge load had been taken from me. I saw light at the end of the tunnel.
Michael is a very down to earth, humble, family man and does not carry the "shark" persona of most attorneys, but don't let this fool you. He is very skilled in the courtroom and an outstanding orator. He will explain your case in a clear and concise manner, without the usual bluster or smokescreen used by many attorneys. He treats and fights for his clients like you're a friend or family member. You'll forget he is your attorney and begin to view him as a friend and ally.
Now with Connie, "WOW" is the first word that comes to mind. Michael has his duties presenting and preparing for the case, which he does amazingly, but Connie is the person you will be speaking to or dealing with on a regular basis. I love this lady! She is ferocious, bold, intelligent, experienced and I'm starting to think clairvoyant. I can't count the number of times I've texted or called her with questions or worries and she always has the answer, which ultimately proves to be completely dead on accurate. One of the things I appreciate about Connie is the fact that she will tell it like it is and tell you what you need to here, whether you like it or not. If I wanted things sugar coated I would go to a bakery. You will get a straight, blunt answer from Connie, but you can also tell she's coming from her heart and from many years of experience. She will look out for you and puts an amazing amount of time and effort into your case. She is unbelievably loyal and absolutely a fighter. Other attorneys and paralegals do not want to tangle with Connie. She will break them down like grandpa's shotgun!
My divorce is not yet resolved but I gave them 5 stars because that's how much confidence I have in their ability to resolve my divorce in the manner most satisfactory for my children and me. Michael and Connie have become like family and fight for you as though you are their family. I prayed heavily for God's direction and guidance after my wife exited our marriage and I have no doubt God led me to Michael and Connie. I talked to several attorneys and just never received the peace that I received after my consultation with Michael and Connie. They have been a God sent blessing throughout this painful process and I cannot more highly recommend them. If you need an attorney call them, have a consultation and you can rest assured your search for the best is over.
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09 May, 2017 by Dylan
Michael and Connie have been extremely helpful in my case. This was my first time hiring an attorney and hopefully my last, but I would definitely recommend the Michael Dicks law firm
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30 Jun, 2024 by Pamella
I was very dissatisfied after I paid her fully for what she charged. It was the first time I had to seek legal advise because I was being sued. She was recommended by my son’s lawyer who was also being sued for the same property, so I assumed she had all information. She called me and I told her I was servicing my car I did not know that was my consultation. I tried to make an appointment with her twice and she refused. On three seperate occasions she threaten to withdraw from the case and eventually did without my knowledge. She also dropped my countersuit without my knowledge . I paid her $4500 a flat rate up to trial. The only thing she did was write two correspondents to the court on my behalf. Personally I think she is unethical and untrustworthy based on the experience I had.
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25 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Atty Payne has been my attorney on a civil matter for a couple of years. I received a judgment in my case and paid Atty Payne an additional $950.00 to determine if the defendants wages could be garnered. I also asked for assistance in filing liens. After being unable to contact her for 3 or 4 months, I made several phone calls to her office but none of my phone calls have returned. All I want now is my $950.00 returned so that I can have another attorney complete the actions that I asked her to complete.
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19 Sep, 2018 by Martin law group,pl
Attorney, Payne assisted our Attorney as co-counsel and did nothing less than excellent work. We most certainly think Ms. Payne played a large part in this win and we appreciate her expertise. Thank you Tahirah!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Paul worley
Awesome representation, office staff and prices. Tina has went above and beyond to assist me through this transition during my divorce. Amen and God bless Melissa Josh Tina and the rest of the office staff. I highly recommend them.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Lilly guevara
Greatest attorney in Lakeland Atty. Wilson. And paralegal Tina B.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Elizabeth nim
I wanted to take a moment to thank Josh Shoen and Tina B. for their outstanding service in handling my case. Their professionalism and dedication made a significant difference in my experience. They took the time to explain the legal process thoroughly and set realistic expectations. I couldn't ask for better representation.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Megan poppins
25 Feb, 2024 by Anita durden
Horrible attorney my opinion,I made the mistake of hiring him n I regret it for the rest of my life. No morals,loyality,.
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21 Jan, 2024 by B. mathis
Let me first start off by saying that the justice system for people of color is a joke. I contacted Attorney Kelly Collier for representation by a referral of Zona Long Bailbond in Bartow. Being that my family had never had to seek bail or a defense attorney we weren't familiar with either company. We selected the two above mentioned companies. Not one of best decisions. I should have been alarmed when I was advised by the bondsman that they were legally unable to provide any attorney info but just so happen to have Attorney Colliers contact information visible for me to use. Once the initial meeting with Mr. Collier took place he was paid in full. He advised that he would be getting with the state to discuss if charges would even be filed against his newly hired client. We met Mr. Collier on 4/24/23 he seemed as if he was truly going to be able to assist in the matter. At time of initial meeting Mr. Collier was made aware that the potential plaintiff want to sign a waiver of prosecution but due to personal reason was unable to go to courthouse. I asked as the attorney for defendant would he be able to assist with get the waiver completed, his response was less that helpful. He could care less with assisting with clearing his clients name. From that point forward he was just another body at every appointment and seemed to never know what was going on. He was late to every hearing never recognized his client when he finally showed up. Just tacky and very unbecoming. He allowed the courts to continue to drag out proceedings instead speaking up on his clients behalf. The case was drug on for 7 months and Mr. Collier did absolutely nothing. He rarely answered the phone or responded to emails. On the morning of the final hearing 11/08/23 Mr. Collier was yet again late and walked into the courtroom and could not identify his client. As I sat in the hall he walks out and I addressed him. There is no victim & no actual proof of a crime committed so we are still uncertain how the state has a case. He acted as if he was dumbfounded as to this news. Yet he has the audacity to tell me the state wants to offer his client 1 year of probation. Funny thing is he never notified his client prior to this hearing. He assumed that we would accept this under duress. I instantly said no and it’s time for him to do his job. At this time he proceed to tell me that he is working two courtrooms and would be back. I had to the remind him that he has been paid in full & this defendant is also just as important even if he can’t remember his name or face. Time comes as his client stands before the judge the charges are instantly dropped. But of course had we accepted that one year of probation he would be another victim of the unjust justice system. We paid Attorney Collier for representation and almost got railroaded. To make matters even worse he wants to charge $500 to assist with record expungement. I would NOT recommend this attorney to anyone. Did not feel that he valued the importance of ensuring that my family was vindicated.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired him to resent me in a case once I paid him he offered me a deal I refused . He tells the judge what the state wanted and I ended up going to prison for over 2 years. Stay away he sucks I know first hand.
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08 Jan, 2021 by Michael
Took a case for my wife and appeared in court on her behalf before I was able to pay him anything. Very professional and understanding.
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07 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Collier went above and beyond for me on my case. He fought to the end and got me exactly what I asked for. Not sure what all the he say she say drama is. I know for a fact that this attorney will fight for you regardless of anything whether it be race or whatever the case may be. I'm a woman of color and I was pleased, no I was overjoyed with the outcome of my case, especially since I was facing up to 30 years in prison away from my family. Thank you so much Mr. Collier and Mrs. Nikki for working with me and spending countless hours on my case. This is one of the best lawyers that I know who is so aggressive and professional. Thanks again and much much love.
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04 Sep, 2018 by Jill
Mrs. McNelis and her assistant were AWESOME! They helped me get divorced quick and painlessly! If you need legal help for anything - be sure you call her office! I will always use Stacey for any legal need I have.
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22 May, 2018 by Brandi
In 2008, I was referred to Stacey McNelis through a military lawyer referral program at Fort Shafter, HI. I explained my situation to Ms. McNelis and gave me legal advice that I followed exactly, which caused me to lose custody of my son for two years. I hired her immediately after an emergency motion was filed against me in Polk County. At the hearing, she allowed the judge to threaten kidnapping charges against me without speaking up to tell the judge that she was the one who told me I could legally pick up my son the way I did. For a year, I worked with Ms. McNelis from Hawaii, in a completely different time zone. She constantly charged me full rates (in ten minute increments) for voicemails I would have to leave and emails due to the time difference. Her assistant at the time, Yesenia, was very helpful but I normally spoke with her and got charged just to turn around and have to speak with Ms. McNelis and get charged again. After paying her over $7,000, a year later, with no movement on my case, I terminated her services and hired another attorney. Within a year, I was at a final hearing and was awarded custody of my son again. After my hearing, I contacted Ms. McNelis and asked her to refund half of my fees for her overcharging me and not being able to progress on my case. She refused. I am still active duty Army, and aside from the money I wasted on her services (or lack thereof), my son still deals with emotional scarring because he was forced to remain in an unsafe home due to Ms. McNelis’ initial failures through her unsound legal advice.
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03 Sep, 2015 by Gernade
I was fortunate enough to have used Mrs. McNelis to represent me with my case. She was not only able to keep me from the worst possible outcome, but she was also extremely aggressive and had a strong presence in the courtroom, and fought for me 100% to the end. I was very impressed by her professionalism and I would refer her to anyone in need of aggressive representation in any legal matter.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Marra jean
Tyler Shortsleeves is the best lawyer I’ve ever seen. Thank you so much Tyler!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Gena dodson
My case was open with HOFLA for over 3 years in that time my case went through 4 different lawyers. This year I had the pleasure of getting Terri S. Rawasia as my lawyer. And she was fantastic. She went above and beyond to get my case done. Was there for every question that I had. Not once did she get mean or aggravated with me. (Like some of the other lawyers there did). She made herself available when I needed. I’m so grateful that I had her as my lawyer. I would highly recommend her to everyone.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Ilene figueredo
So I went through the process of applying at what was one of the most vulnerable times in my life after having to file a restraining order going through mental and physical abuse not having a steady income to pay thousands for a lawyer living in a shelter with 2 kids then purchasing a home with the help of my family now having to deal with all the directions my mind was going and trying to find some agreement through the court system that is why these places are created is my understanding to provide aide for people at their most vulnerable and everyone in that office really has no true consideration for that they should tell you off the bat their only form of communication is email i am not an office person im not constantly checking my emails with everything else going on in my life you think there would be a level of courtesy considering the line of work these people are in but no they decided to drop me all together after spending already so much time filling the application sending all my account information time going to meet in person and then when i try to just speak to someone about why i was being dropped maybe some direction in help to move forward they literally refused to speak to me like i was a piece of trash they just threw away didnt care this is were our tax dollars are going to people that i dont see really care i didnt even want to give the one star they dont deserve it!!!
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03 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I Belive he will fight for my fiance and have him home By CHRISTMAS....He seems To Know What we realy want and need...And working hard on his case to Make that happend....
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23 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
After he was paid off, he stopped contacting me. He just stopped caring and really showing interest in the case. When it was time to sign the deal he talked to me like I Was scum of the earth. I do not recommend, you can definitely find a bettee attorney. He is also not aggressive when he needs to be, and he will not listen if you ask him to do something. He does it in his own time.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
John Lynch is rude, he doesn’t explain anything to you. I had to try to find ways to get my boyfriend out of jail. He’s been locked up for 6 months now and hasn’t even went to VOP court. I tried to get him out on Behavioral court and John Lynch refused to ask the state Attorney. His court date just got moved to the end of July and the lawyer has not put in any motion to get him a bond or anything. He waited 5 months for even visiting my boyfriend in jail. Was only there like 10 minutes and didn’t explain anything to him. I paid $2000 and my boyfriend would of been better off with a public defender. This lawyer is so sketchy. He only text not calls and you have to pay him through Western Union.
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31 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
John Lynch went above and beyond what is expected of an attorney. Every phone call and message was returned and every question and concern was addressed promptly and accurately. There was no issue left unresolved and no detail for my defense was forgotten or overlooked. He updated me through each stage of the court process and successfully won my case with a motion to suppress evidence that was illegally obtained. He worked very hard for me and with me. Mr. Lynch is an expert lawyer who cares about his clients rights. I highly recommend him to everyone who needs a criminal lawyer. He knows the law and will fight for justice.
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14 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired John Lynch and twice he showed up in court disheveled and unorganized. He would not answer a question another time and threaten to get a court officer to bar me from the court house. I do not feel he fought my case to his full potential. After the case was done he would not answer or return my calls. Biggest regret of my life! I am still paying people back money loaned to pay attorney.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Marra jean
Tyler Shortsleeves is the best lawyer I’ve ever seen. Thank you so much Tyler!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Gena dodson
My case was open with HOFLA for over 3 years in that time my case went through 4 different lawyers. This year I had the pleasure of getting Terri S. Rawasia as my lawyer. And she was fantastic. She went above and beyond to get my case done. Was there for every question that I had. Not once did she get mean or aggravated with me. (Like some of the other lawyers there did). She made herself available when I needed. I’m so grateful that I had her as my lawyer. I would highly recommend her to everyone.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Ilene figueredo
So I went through the process of applying at what was one of the most vulnerable times in my life after having to file a restraining order going through mental and physical abuse not having a steady income to pay thousands for a lawyer living in a shelter with 2 kids then purchasing a home with the help of my family now having to deal with all the directions my mind was going and trying to find some agreement through the court system that is why these places are created is my understanding to provide aide for people at their most vulnerable and everyone in that office really has no true consideration for that they should tell you off the bat their only form of communication is email i am not an office person im not constantly checking my emails with everything else going on in my life you think there would be a level of courtesy considering the line of work these people are in but no they decided to drop me all together after spending already so much time filling the application sending all my account information time going to meet in person and then when i try to just speak to someone about why i was being dropped maybe some direction in help to move forward they literally refused to speak to me like i was a piece of trash they just threw away didnt care this is were our tax dollars are going to people that i dont see really care i didnt even want to give the one star they dont deserve it!!!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Marra jean
Tyler Shortsleeves is the best lawyer I’ve ever seen. Thank you so much Tyler!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Gena dodson
My case was open with HOFLA for over 3 years in that time my case went through 4 different lawyers. This year I had the pleasure of getting Terri S. Rawasia as my lawyer. And she was fantastic. She went above and beyond to get my case done. Was there for every question that I had. Not once did she get mean or aggravated with me. (Like some of the other lawyers there did). She made herself available when I needed. I’m so grateful that I had her as my lawyer. I would highly recommend her to everyone.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Ilene figueredo
So I went through the process of applying at what was one of the most vulnerable times in my life after having to file a restraining order going through mental and physical abuse not having a steady income to pay thousands for a lawyer living in a shelter with 2 kids then purchasing a home with the help of my family now having to deal with all the directions my mind was going and trying to find some agreement through the court system that is why these places are created is my understanding to provide aide for people at their most vulnerable and everyone in that office really has no true consideration for that they should tell you off the bat their only form of communication is email i am not an office person im not constantly checking my emails with everything else going on in my life you think there would be a level of courtesy considering the line of work these people are in but no they decided to drop me all together after spending already so much time filling the application sending all my account information time going to meet in person and then when i try to just speak to someone about why i was being dropped maybe some direction in help to move forward they literally refused to speak to me like i was a piece of trash they just threw away didnt care this is were our tax dollars are going to people that i dont see really care i didnt even want to give the one star they dont deserve it!!!
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12 Dec, 2022 by Donna
Public Defenders' Office & My attorney, Sandra Smith, has Not Provided My Requested "Discovery" from Dr. Michael Collins (PhD).
He Documented he declared me "INCOMPETENT" to "Proceed to Trial" for a Erroneous "Trespass" Arrest December 30, 2021. Dr Michael Collins was PAID by 10th Circuit Court as an "Expert Witness".
Dr. Michael Collins LIED & PERJURED.
He Never met me "in person" on "JUNE 22".
He Never Performed the Tests (5) he said he "did".
Dr Michael Collins Documented, He "used Medical Records, Police Reports, Court Documents" to Declare me "Incompetent to Proceed". M8 is REFUSING to Offer a Second Evaluation. Dr. Michael Collins is GROSSLY NEGLIGENT. I Was at CHURCH During PHONE Interview. I Never Met Dr Michael Collins for an Evaluation.
MY PUBLIC DEFENDER, Sandra Smith, Has REFUSED To PROVIDE Me With " DISCOVERY" Of Those DOCUMENTS.
I MET In My PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE Twice In 6 Months. I Called 36+ TIMES For APPOINTMENTS.
I PAID Two Private Attorneys for Consults to take my case. They were "too busy", and Declined My CASE
I GOT TO COURT DECEMBER 14, 2022.
I have a PHONE Appointment with Sandra Smith, this morning. I DO NOT KNOW HOW SHE CAN GO OVER MY CASE PAGE BY PAGE
O V E R THE P H O N E.
✝️G O D HELP ME
AMEN
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06 May, 2022 by Brad
Richard rode circles around my ex wives attorney Leslie. In attorneys you get what you pay for. Richard is a good guy who wants to win for his clients. He is extremely smart and has over 40 years of experience and he has seen it all. I fire my original attorney and hired Richard because my friend Simeon recommended him. This was one of the best decisions I ever made. If you want to win use Richard McKinley.
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04 Feb, 2021 by D
Staff is unresponsive, inept, rude, don’t bother, couldn’t even get to the point of a consultation.
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19 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
I do NOT recommend Richard McKinley. I was billed for every phone call whether I called or they called me. Likewise, I was billed if I sent an email to his office, the office sent an email to me, and/or an email was sent on my behalf by the office.
I was requested to call the office to schedule a “Phone Conference”. Once the phone conference was scheduled, I was required to call his office back once again to actually have the phone conference that was previously scheduled. Each time I was always put on hold while waiting for Mr. McKinley to come on the phone. When Mr. McKinley finally came on the phone, he was always totally unprepared for a pre-scheduled phone conference because he repeatedly asked the same questions as in every other conversation or meeting we had. I am convinced Mr. McKinley never had my file in front of him. Several times during these phone calls I was put on hold so Mr. McKinley could speak with another client. Since I was billed for each call and each email sent, I believe this was a way to make more money off of me. I feel my divorce could have been completed in a shorter amount of time without Mr. McKinley delaying everything in order to make more money.
Do your homework and get a better lawyer so you don’t spend unnecessary money. It’s very costly to change lawyers mid stream but that is what I had to do in order to stop the over billing of this expensive lawyer.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Jeffrey matthew gerling
In 2006, a church by the name of Carpenter's home was burglarized by three individuals named Scott linden dwan ebanks and another individual named Joey to whom's last name I do not know. Me and another individual by the name of George labrada who was underage at the time were trespassing on the property at the time of the burglary and when we realized that a crime had taken place. We ran away from the property only to have the police kick in the door of a friend's apartment and arrest us. I was held in jail for months while I was still only guilty of trespassing while Polk county tried to give me prison time. Carmichael suggested that I plead guilty instead of pleading not guilty even though I was in fact innocent. Then come to find out ebanks had been called a. Co-defendant which should have been illegal because the guy robbed a church and I didn't. This has absolutely ruined my life for the last nearly two decades.
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06 Mar, 2017 by William jollay
Once you hire Mr. Coleman and he's got your money he no longer can help you. He even represented the confidential informant in my case and me at the same time and told me to keep quiet about it. Highlands county case #11-1060. And now that I have a technical probation violation for failure to pay restitution that was not ordered at time of sentencing, in fact it wasn't ordered until 2years later which he never informed me of and now he has blocked my calls.
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Find out if the lawyer will handle your case personally or delegate tasks to other attorneys or paralegals. -
How will you communicate with me throughout the process?
Establish expectations for updates, preferred communication methods, and response times. -
What is the likely timeline for resolving my case?
Get an estimate of how long the process may take from start to finish. -
Do you have references from past clients?
Testimonials or references can provide insight into the lawyer's professionalism and effectiveness. -
What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
Understanding potential challenges helps you prepare and sets realistic expectations. -
Are there alternative ways to solve my legal problem?
Discuss options like mediation, arbitration, or settlement to resolve the issue efficiently.
How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer
Before hiring a lawyer, it's crucial to verify their credibility and ensure they're qualified to handle your case:
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Verify Their License:
Check with your state's bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and in good standing. -
Experience and Specialization:
Ensure the lawyer specializes in the area of law relevant to your case. -
Disciplinary Record:
Look up any history of disciplinary actions or complaints through the state bar association. -
Client Reviews and Testimonials:
Read reviews on legal directories like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge client satisfaction. -
Professional Memberships:
Membership in professional organizations or specialty bar associations can indicate a commitment to their field. -
Awards and Recognitions:
Honors from reputable organizations reflect expertise and a positive reputation. -
Consultation Assessment:
Use the initial consultation to evaluate their communication skills, responsiveness, and willingness to address your concerns. -
Ask for References:
A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your initial meeting with a lawyer, come prepared with:
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Relevant Documents:
Bring all documents related to your case, such as contracts, correspondence, legal notices, court papers, or evidence. -
Written Summary:
Prepare a concise written summary of your situation, including key dates, events, and involved parties. -
List of Questions:
Write down any questions you have about your case, the legal process, or the lawyer's experience. -
Financial Information:
If applicable, bring financial documents like pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements. -
Contact Information:
Provide details of any witnesses or other parties relevant to your case. -
Personal Identification:
Bring a valid ID for verification purposes. -
Pen and Notebook:
Take notes during the consultation to remember important points. -
Budget Constraints:
Be ready to discuss your budget and any financial limitations.
How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a lawyer varies widely based on several factors:
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Fee Structures:
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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.
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Hourly Rate:
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Factors Affecting Cost:
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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.
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Complexity of the Case:
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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.
