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25 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Many years ago I went through an extremely difficult time in life; I interviewed and even worked with several attorneys because of my complex situation. Once I hired Mark, everything shifted to my favor. I was not "off the hook" and still faced consequences. However, Mark worked in my best interest in a fully professional and compassionate capacity. In court, he was amazing; reminded me of a football coach. He worked hand in hand with the prosecution and the judge to get me the professional care I needed, instead of punishment. My issue was now 10 years ago. To this day, my family and I are forever appreciative to Mark for his solid understanding of the law and his truly hard work to get the best results.
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27 May, 2015 by Ca
My cheating ex was attempting to file a bogus PPO against me for revenge, as well as initiating a criminal investigation against me for 2 felonies which each carried up to a 5 year sentence and a $2000 fine.
Mark was instrumental in getting the PPO, which was already scheduled for a hearing, dropped and dismissed by the plaintiff. He was also able to work with the investigating police detective in getting the felony investigations dropped by the plaintiff as well.
If you want to win, I would highly recommend Mark for any criminal matter.
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20 Jan, 2014 by Mike
Mark represented me on some very serious charges, in a very difficult case. I had been a "model citizen" for my entire life, and now in my 40's I was wrongfully accused and overcharged by the prosecutor. Mark provided an aggressive defense, as well as an honest real life look into the realities of my situation. He worked well in reaching an "acceptable" outcome on the case.
I had worked with a number of different attorney's in my professional life on business issues. Mark came highly recommended. Even though my case was a bit "outside" of Mark's backyard of Oakland County, he had prior positive experience with my judge which I think helped the situation.
Mark's background as a Assistant prosecutor handling capital crimes was a resource. I believe that he is well respected by his colleagues, both attorneys and judges.
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24 Mar, 2016 by Dan
Emily Long represented me in a domestic case against false allegations. The case was dismissed in court because of her effective representation . I would like to say that Emily in very skilled at cross examinations and would recommend her to any one seeking counsel.
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26 Jul, 2015 by Naumanmalik
Yesterday I talked to her about my daughters case who Is a domestic violence victim. I was really impressed that most lawyers can't give you enough time to listen to your issues but our telephone conversation went very long and she listened about the problems my daughter is facing very patiently and guided me. I don't know how good lawyer she is but I can definitely say that she is a good human being.
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21 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
She's personable and professional when you first meet her. You know she's smart. But when you see her in the courtroom, out-thinking everyone else there, then you are really glad she's on your side.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Eric lewandowski
I had a fantastic experience working with Kotz Sangster. Extremely knowledgeable for M&A transactions as well as other areas of law. I would gladly work with Kotz Sangster again in the future!
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10 Jun, 2024 by Dave hartung
We didn’t know we were being scammed as it was all so confusing. Brian returned my call and said don’t follow their instructions regarding a new “Failure to show up in court scam” He then called the sheriff impersonator who would not give his badge number and hung up confirming the scam. What a relief we felt and Brian was so kind and helpful, and didn’t charge us anything. Thank you for being a true friend and supportive citizen.
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07 May, 2024 by Jason tietz
Jeff Sternberg worked with our family to get us through some times and was wonderful in the process. I would recommend Jeff Sternberg to anyone.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Eric lewandowski
I had a fantastic experience working with Kotz Sangster. Extremely knowledgeable for M&A transactions as well as other areas of law. I would gladly work with Kotz Sangster again in the future!
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10 Jun, 2024 by Dave hartung
We didn’t know we were being scammed as it was all so confusing. Brian returned my call and said don’t follow their instructions regarding a new “Failure to show up in court scam” He then called the sheriff impersonator who would not give his badge number and hung up confirming the scam. What a relief we felt and Brian was so kind and helpful, and didn’t charge us anything. Thank you for being a true friend and supportive citizen.
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07 May, 2024 by Jason tietz
Jeff Sternberg worked with our family to get us through some times and was wonderful in the process. I would recommend Jeff Sternberg to anyone.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Eric lewandowski
I had a fantastic experience working with Kotz Sangster. Extremely knowledgeable for M&A transactions as well as other areas of law. I would gladly work with Kotz Sangster again in the future!
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10 Jun, 2024 by Dave hartung
We didn’t know we were being scammed as it was all so confusing. Brian returned my call and said don’t follow their instructions regarding a new “Failure to show up in court scam” He then called the sheriff impersonator who would not give his badge number and hung up confirming the scam. What a relief we felt and Brian was so kind and helpful, and didn’t charge us anything. Thank you for being a true friend and supportive citizen.
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07 May, 2024 by Jason tietz
Jeff Sternberg worked with our family to get us through some times and was wonderful in the process. I would recommend Jeff Sternberg to anyone.
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24 Jun, 2015 by Roger
My brother-in-law and I wanted to buyout our siblings from the family business and we didn’t want to use the family’s lawyer because we thought he favored our siblings. My accountant recommended Don. He helped us from drafting the term sheet through the purchase. The federal tax issues were complex and most frustrating for us, but Don has obviously done these before. While not a breeze, it was most valuable to have a business lawyer with tax experience to be sure that we didn’t do anything stupid. Jack and I both thought he did a great job, so I was happy to write a review for him when his office asked me. Thanks for your help Don!
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26 Feb, 2015 by Kerry
I sometimes need a lawyer to review the engagement contracts and term and conditions required by our clients, especially ones with crazy tax provisions that are out of state. The small business incubator at Oakland University referred me to Mr. Katz last year because apparently he is an advisor there. Since then, he has reviewed four or five engagements and drafted the terms of services for our website. More than once he has kept us out of trouble with some practical business and legal advice. He quickly turned around the contracts that I sent him. I mostly like the fixed price plan, it really fit my budget.
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26 Feb, 2015 by David
Don gained sufficient knowledge of our small business to recommend a structure and plan that will save a ton in taxes when we exit or sell the company. We made a major mistake with an online corporation company that really jeopardized our SBA loan and created a few tax issues, but Don was able to fix it and we are ready to roll. Thanks Don!
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13 Aug, 2021 by Harriet
Walking across the street, in the crosswalk and with the traffic light, an inattentive driver ran into me breaking my hip. Following surgery, I was advised to and called Dana Marcus at LaKritz Law. She was attentive and knowledgeable, listened to my concerns and kept me informed thru the whole process. She carefully explained the procedures and thoroughly prepared me for my deposition. I felt that I was in excellent hands and would be pleased to recommend Dana.
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08 Jul, 2021 by Emily
Dana is a fantastic attorney! She is intelligent, thorough, conscientious and prompt. She has helped me with many legal situations over decades with the end result always being a success. She is not only a phenomenal attorney, but a warm, personable, caring person as well. I have always felt that she genuinely cares about me as a person and not just my legal case. I cannot recommend her and her firm's services enough!
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07 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I met with Dana after my son was in a terrible accident. Dana did a fantastic job explaining and educating me on the law worked around this type of accident and how to proceed. I didn’t understand everything involved and she was very helpful. All the doctor’s visits and paperwork was overwhelming even when you have two educated adults involved as parents. She is very knowledgeable and easy talk to.
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24 Jan, 2014 by Chris
Mr. Googasian helped assist me with my Class Action against Sallie Mae. Him and the rest of his staff were very approachable and were able to answer whatever questions I had. Mr. Googasian fought tooth and nail during my arbitration and in the end was able to get a judgement in my favor. I will be eternally greatful for everything that he and his staff was able to do for me and my family.
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23 Jan, 2014 by Rebecca
Mr. Googasian and his team represented the students of Computer Training.com in a class action lawsuit (Smith vs. Computer Training.com) after the school closed its doors, failing to keep it's promise of lifetime job placement. The Googasian Firm then assisted in my arbitration against Sallie Mae in the fall of 2013. The experience of arbitration was nothing I had ever experienced and I was walked through the process step by step. I was very pleased, not only with the outcome, but also with the way my case was handled. Mr. Googasian and Ms. Kubit were professional, considerate and compassionate about my situation. If I ever find myself in need of an attorney I would not hesitate to contact The Googasian Firm.
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21 Jan, 2014 by Gabi
I've never been personally involved with a legal case and was very hesitant to trust and believe a lawyer could help my situation. To my surprise the firm was very responsive and Dean himself would get involved via phone or email follow-ups since we live in different states. Once my hearing was arranged, he took the time to answer all my questions and prepare me for the environment what was laying ahead.
He was on key so much, that even if I would have lost, I knew he done everything a human possibly could do to bring the truth out. I am thrilled to so say, it went into my favor!
Thank you again Dean, for your superior research, knowledge, listening skills and profession!
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23 Sep, 2012 by Steven
Dalia truly is one of the best. She is not just my lawyer, but a trusted adviser. She is incredibly friendly and makes you feel comfortable from the start. She has handled a variety of my legal matters and always follows through on her word and ensures I am happy with the outcome. I constantly find myself recommending Mrs. Kejbou.
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07 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
I have been using Dalia Kejbou as my lawyer for over 11 years and have always been 100% satisfied with the services she has provided me. I have used her for business matters as well as civil. She is very thorough and makes sure to explore all options in handling my legal issues.
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06 Sep, 2012 by Courtney
Dalia goes above and beyond all expectations possible. She not only gets the job done, but also makes you feel comfortable enough to confide in her when needed. She truly does the very best job and puts forth the most effort I've ever seen in a lawyer. She took a tremendous weight off my shoulders. I would highly recommend her to anyone who needs legal help.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Rania
I would like express my sincere thanks for the most professional representation these past few months. you have stuck by me through dealing with this very stressful case. I admire your composure, work ethic and most of all excellent representation. I was very happy once the case was over. Thank you Paul for such an amazing job.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Fouad
Paul was an amazing attorney who handled my case with complete professionalism. From start to finish and was extremely thorough with all documents in front of him. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a very tentative thorough attorney.
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19 Dec, 2017 by Anita
He helped my mother Anita Flannigan with a mold case against here apartment complex. He as very thorough to the point and very aggressive when it came to dealing with the apartment complex that did not want to settle with her. He was amazing.
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12 Jul, 2017 by Michael
In 1994 we engaged Stuart to represent us in a business acquisition and he has handled a number of business related issues for us over the years. I have always found his work to be thorough, accurate and timely. Stuart has the ability to explain complex legal issues to those of us that do not have a legal background. We have enjoyed working him.
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06 Jul, 2017 by Paul
I have used Stuart as a corporate and personal attorney for over 10 years. He is responsive at all hours of the day and night. Stuart puts his customers first and makes sure you get the right advice for your situation. He has helped with everything from contracts, employment agreements and complicated Federal and State regulations. Clearly able to take on any challenge new or old, as he is able to get up to speed and create creative solutions for every dilemma.
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06 Jul, 2017 by Jeff
Stuart has represented our company for over 25 years with regard to acquisitions. Throughout all acquisitions we have made, Stuart has utilized a very professional, timely and innovative direction. We have always been very pleased with his stewardship of our direction and interest. I would highly recommend him.
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13 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
I was charged with Operating While Intoxicated with a High Blood Alcohol Content (also referred to as being super drunk). I was recorded speeding, driving over a curb, and then falling over when asked to step out of my car. I was also belligerent to the cops. The police didn't even bother with field sobrietry tests because I told the police I drank too much and because I fell out of my car when I opened the door. I was arrested on a Friday night and referred to Abe by my dad's friend Saturday morning. Abe immediately spoke to me by phone, met with me later in the day, and explained what I needed to do and how it was urgent that I start right away.
I was afraid of going jail, losing my license, my job, and losing my house. I had just started a new job after graduating college. Abe was able to work out a favorable result with no jail time, no loss of my drivers license, although I had a restricted drivers license for 3 months, and I only had 4 months of probation and some fines and costs. Needless to say, I quit drinking after that ordeal. I would highly recommend Abe not only for his professionalism, knowledge and legal skills, but because he gave advice as a friend would give. I hope I never need his services again, but give him my highest recommendation. His secretary was also very helpful amd and accessible.
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12 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I contacted Attorney Abe after I got a ticket. He walked me through all the procedures and counseled me very well on how to handle the situation. I walked away with just a warning after he dealt with the judge. Abe handled the situation very calmly and professionally.
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18 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
I retained Abe and his law firm for a compliance check for my medical office, specifically regarding various leases and employment agreements with my physician's assistants. He and his firm were professional, knowledgeable and assisted in my business needs.
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28 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Marc Fishman to work on a very big case and he delivered above all of my expectations. Having the Fishman Group behind me was the very best decision I could have made!
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10 May, 2016 by Tanisha
Attorneys Marc and Ryan Fishman are WONDERFUL! From the start, Marc was very patient and explained every step to me in layman terms. He always returned my calls or answered my emails within 24 hrs. When it was time to "fight", he protected me and fought a good, clean BUT strong fight. His level of legal experience was noticeable to all involved. I've never had to use a lawyer before and I thank God that my first time was with the Fishman Group. Marc dispelled the negative pre thoughts I may have had. Hopefully I will never have the need for a lawyer again, but if I do, I'm immediately calling the Fishman Group. I can best describe this law firm with three words...INTEGRITY, HONESTY and COMMITTED. I pray that God will bless them and every client they touch. If you or someone you know needs a lawyer, I 100% recommend these exceptional lawyers!
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14 Aug, 2015 by Valarie
I spoke with Mr. Fishman briefly over the phone. He immediately setup an consultation the next morning. When I sat down to speak with him I found him to be very passionate and extremely polite. He empathized with my case and gave me the best advice to assist me. He is one of the best. I will never seek another lawyer again unless he advises me to!
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28 Feb, 2022 by David
Brother Ryan is for freedom justice and equality.my record is 2-0 pro boxer 3 pro mma belts with 3 fights . Impossibility you say no. This wonder lawyer has the key to the city.i wondered how ?the judges love him court seem like he worked there which took my stress away.if your looking for the hard work to go away and your career a breeze. This is your atturney. If you having law issues now your not.(Italian forget about it) the best
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18 Apr, 2017 by Yvonne
I had a serious problem with real estate fraud. He was quick to resolve the issue. I would highly recommend him for all my legal needs.
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01 Oct, 2016 by Melissa
Ryan has made the process very easy for me and stress free. He was very attentive, great personality, hard working, and caring, unlike most lawyers I have worked with in the past. I am happy with the outcome of my case and a lot of that was due to Ryan's hard work.
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18 Mar, 2017 by Rk
I have only consulted so far, seems to be good at communicating, and responds very fast to emails.
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15 Mar, 2017 by Jonathan h. schwartz
Alex is a phenomenal attorney who focuses on representing businesses and business owners in a variety of complex litigation matters. He has been consistently recognized for his legal acumen, devotion to clients, and exemplary reputation in the legal community. As his colleague, I can personally attest that Alex is a “lawyer’s lawyer,” whose keen legal mind, trustworthiness, and tireless work ethic make him one of metro-Detroit’s most respected attorneys. If you're looking for an attorney, I strongly recommend getting in touch with Alex. He will treat you right and do an awesome job!
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06 Jan, 2016 by Phil czernik
About 4 years ago my wife had made the call to ABC law centers after researching various attorneys. We had actually been give an attorney’s phone number from a friend which we called. He talked to me for about two minutes and had no interest in trying to help. He wanted us to ask the doctors what happened to our son and then get back with him.
Jesse Reiter was FAR more concerned with trying to help us find out what had caused Matthew’s condition. He and his team took over an hour talking with my wife over the phone gathering information and then sent out the necessary paperwork so they could start looking into what had happened to Matthew. Since we had twin boys, Matthew and Andrew, they assured us that this was their specialty and they would get us answers.
The process then began with more paperwork and meetings as well as creating a video documentary for the care and condition of our son Matthew. All of this was done very professionally and within our hectic schedule. At no time did we ever feel like we were being pressured and everyone was very sympathetic to our needs.
Jesse Reiter and Rebecca Walsh worked very hard for us in this 4 year process. Jesse Reiter even commented on this being one of his longest cases that he has handled, but at no time did they waiver from the end goal of finding out what had caused Matthew’s condition.
Jesse and Rebecca did an AWESOME job of being sympathetic, patient, understanding and caring in their handling of our son’s case. Because of their hard work and persistence we are now assured of Matthew’s future care. This is a HUGE weight off of our minds because, as many parents, we were concerned of Matthew’s future for when we would no longer be around.
A very big THANK YOU to Jesse, Rebecca and their team who have helped us with Matthew.
Phil, Jamie, Matthew and Andrew.
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11 Sep, 2015 by Ricardo dearmin
They helped my family from start of case and even after the case was settled. They made sure we were informed during each step. And they got my son the compensation he needed for life. Since hiring the Baby law center our lives have changed
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5.0
3 Reviews
4.4
9 Reviews
02 Feb, 2025 by Ms. price
He’s a terrible attorney. I wouldn’t recommend this attorney IF he was free!
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04 Sep, 2023 by Glenn crandall
29 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Lori Becker is a consummate Professional; a Phenomenal Attorney and just a GREAT person to have on your side!! She is very smart, wise, incredibly knowledgeable of her profession, extremely skillful at negotiations, and has a hugely compassionate heart. She is not judgmental. She has Amazing Grace & Severe Mercy and patience for her clients. Lori Becker is passionate about equitable outcomes and solutions in divorces. She knows that no one got married hoping for a divorce. But divorces still obviously happen. Lori fought for what really mattered: my daughter!!
There are three types of negotiators: the Competitive (they have to win & you have to lose); the Conquered (one who gets run over and cannot or will not fight for their clients); And then there is Lori, The Collaborative One (she reaches mutually satisfactory outcomes while not exploiting either side).
Lori Becker is definitely a Collaborative Attorney. She gets win-win results. She cares about her clients and mutually satisfactory outcomes in delicate situations. I hope I never have to use her services again because divorce is traumatizing. But If I do marry again, She will still be my attorney and now my friend also.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Dyoung8552
As a client, I found Justin to be highly principled, professional and effective. I retained him after dismissing another, ineffective attorney; Justin far exceeded my expectations in his representation and in dealing with highly unethical bank executives. Our mortgage was reduced, as was out debt, and Justin proved to be highly respectful of our resources and family stress. He demonstrated great professional acumen and displayed great kindness and generosity of spirit. This young attorney is exceptional, intelligent, a fierce advocate and a nice person.
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30 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
I have worked with Jeff for many years and have found him to be an excellent resource for all of our corporate needs. He has assisted us in many facets of our business and helped us manage our growth. Highly recommend.
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08 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
I was referred to Ms. Brown by a former divorce client of hers after my spouse filed for divorce. She met with me for a consultation and explained the divorce process clearly. I interviewed several lawyers and decided to hire Diana. It was the right decision. The case was long and expensive, but it was worth it because I had good representation throughout. Diana kept me informed about all the details, including custody and visitation, and property division. In the end, I got a good result. I was very satisfied with Ms. Brown's work and have recommended her to others.
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29 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Bob was my lawyer in a civil matter (personal injury claim) in an out-of-state court. Bob represented my interests, advocated strongly for me, and, importantly, kept me informed about the many proceedings/motions etc. that were somewhat indecipherable to me, as a non-attorney. He patiently explained the jargon and legal terms to me in ways which made them understandable, so that I understood exactly what was going on, how any changes affected--or didn't affect--my case, and what my next steps were. He provided his view on what might happen next when asked, without being too speculative or unreasonably optimistic (There was no "it'll all be fine"--it was more like "here's what wer'e hoping for, here's what we're going to do to try and achieve that outcome, and here's what we do next"). I appreciated his candor and patience, and he led my case to a very reasonable outcome. Bob's communication by phone and email was consistent, and mattered a great deal to me, as I live out-of-state. He was both personable and professional, which instilled me with confidence that my interests were being well-represented. I highly recommend Bob and his firm for cases involving litigation around personal injury.
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28 Aug, 2017 by Andrea
Steve Estey got results for a group of citizens in our community, in leading our fight to oppose the development of an airport in our rural community. Mr. Estey is an exceptionally able counsellor who won the day through his excellent work and practical legal advice. He brought a savvy, knowledgeable approach, coupled with honesty, candor and an unfailing commitment to our goals. We feel truly blessed to have had Mr. Estey as our attorney in this matter. We could not have achieved our goals without his talented legal counsel and leadership.
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27 Sep, 2019 by Kyle
Michael is very smart and worked very hard for me to get my cases issued as a patent. He knows the right way to approach the patent examiner to get results and he is very technically savvy. I highly recommend this talented atty.
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03 Mar, 2020 by John
When my mother needed a will and a living trust, I took her to see Mr. Borkowski. He treated her respectfully and answered all questions. He did the worked skillfully and timely. When she passed away, everything went smoothly and easily. I highly recommend Mr. Borkowski.
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20 Oct, 2016 by Ilena
Mr. Kifferstein has handled all of my personal and business legal matters for over 15 years, always operating with unmatchable integrity. His wisdom, compassion, and expedience in handling each matter has always exceeded expectations.
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22 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired this law firm for a patent infringement case. Totally satisfied and cost was reasonable.
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15 Apr, 2018 by Jared
I worked with Mr. Greenblatt on an important case involving the erosion of fundamental rights. He listens to outside advice and is well versed in Constitutional theory and relevant case law. He’s very trustworthy and conducts himself in a highly professional and ethical manner.
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16 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
Attorney hired to design and implement complex business-contract transaction (corporate acquisition valued in excess of $100 Million Dollars). Project took 4 months and Mr. Kanter worked with one of the largest firms in the country representing the acquiring entity (we were the company being acquired). Transaction concluded flawlessly with both sides exceptionally pleased that all problems were worked out professionally, cost effectively and quickly.
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21 Mar, 2011 by Mark
David is an artful and incredible negotiator. My situation involved a difficult business breakup between two partners. David was able to negotiate and recommend practical solutions to my situation. While I hope I do not need his services again, I would never hesitate calling upon his skills in the future. Simply a great lawyer.
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04 May, 2015 by Dr. and mrs. george, gts, inc.
My wife and I have both worked with Susan in the various Environmental fields for close to 23 years. Both my wife and I have known Susan to be a very knowledgeable, research oriented and forceful in the specific field of Environmental Laws where you deal with Local, State and Federal bureaucracies.
Ms. Johnson is well respected by Regulators and Clients alike. When she works on a case she is devoted and dedicated to bringing the facts and resolving your issues.
She is a "one of a kind" attorney who understands Operations involvement in complex fields such as Chemical, Scrap Metal, Hazardous Waste Treatment and Transportation (and more) in complex fields such as RCRA, TSCA, Clean Air and Water Acts, etc.. She is highly recommended.
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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:
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What experience do you have with cases similar to mine?
Ensure the lawyer has relevant experience in the specific area of law pertaining to your case. -
How do you charge for your services, and what are the estimated costs?
Understand the fee structure, including hourly rates, flat fees, retainer fees, and any additional expenses. -
What potential outcomes can I expect from my case?
While no lawyer can guarantee results, they can provide an assessment of possible scenarios based on their experience. -
What is your approach to handling cases like mine?
Learn about their strategy, whether they prefer negotiation, mediation, or litigation. -
Who will be working on my case?
Find out if the lawyer will handle your case personally or delegate tasks to other attorneys or paralegals. -
How will you communicate with me throughout the process?
Establish expectations for updates, preferred communication methods, and response times. -
What is the likely timeline for resolving my case?
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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:
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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?
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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:
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List of Questions:
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Financial Information:
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Pen and Notebook:
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Budget Constraints:
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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:
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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.
