Filter by

star star star star star
29 Mar, 2024 by Marleen yess
Correction: Tim Chandler was not ever a client of mine. We had no relationship. Therefore his review is harassment by a disgruntled estate beneficiary. The Chandlers I did represent gave me five full stars and referrals.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2022 by Tim chandler
Horrible mismanagement of my family’s Trust for years. One that she wrote herself, amended multiple times, and even went to my grandfather on his deathbed to have him sign an amendment when he was not in a clear state of mind. When asked for an accounting, she stalled for 9 months and then all of a sudden, no longer represents the Trust or Trustee. This woman should have her bar revoked. She will steal your family’s money and do zero work that benefits anybody but herself.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2021 by Jeanette picker
Kathy Campbell is passionate about families. She stood by my side through a very long and contentious divorce; constantly trying to elevate the ordeal to civil. I felt stunned and wounded at every turn. Kathy was my shield, the best defender. She prepared me as best as she could for court proceedings and helped me understand the law. Kathy consistently and naturally conducts herself with respect and a high moral code. She always treated me as a priority and showed concern about my wellbeing and the wellbeing of my children. I have the utmost respect for Kathy and would recommend her for anyone that needs a compassionate, solid, thorough, and professional attorney.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2024 by Marleen yess
Correction: Tim Chandler was not ever a client of mine. We had no relationship. Therefore his review is harassment by a disgruntled estate beneficiary. The Chandlers I did represent gave me five full stars and referrals.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2022 by Tim chandler
Horrible mismanagement of my family’s Trust for years. One that she wrote herself, amended multiple times, and even went to my grandfather on his deathbed to have him sign an amendment when he was not in a clear state of mind. When asked for an accounting, she stalled for 9 months and then all of a sudden, no longer represents the Trust or Trustee. This woman should have her bar revoked. She will steal your family’s money and do zero work that benefits anybody but herself.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2021 by Jeanette picker
Kathy Campbell is passionate about families. She stood by my side through a very long and contentious divorce; constantly trying to elevate the ordeal to civil. I felt stunned and wounded at every turn. Kathy was my shield, the best defender. She prepared me as best as she could for court proceedings and helped me understand the law. Kathy consistently and naturally conducts herself with respect and a high moral code. She always treated me as a priority and showed concern about my wellbeing and the wellbeing of my children. I have the utmost respect for Kathy and would recommend her for anyone that needs a compassionate, solid, thorough, and professional attorney.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2024 by Marleen yess
Correction: Tim Chandler was not ever a client of mine. We had no relationship. Therefore his review is harassment by a disgruntled estate beneficiary. The Chandlers I did represent gave me five full stars and referrals.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2022 by Tim chandler
Horrible mismanagement of my family’s Trust for years. One that she wrote herself, amended multiple times, and even went to my grandfather on his deathbed to have him sign an amendment when he was not in a clear state of mind. When asked for an accounting, she stalled for 9 months and then all of a sudden, no longer represents the Trust or Trustee. This woman should have her bar revoked. She will steal your family’s money and do zero work that benefits anybody but herself.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2021 by Jeanette picker
Kathy Campbell is passionate about families. She stood by my side through a very long and contentious divorce; constantly trying to elevate the ordeal to civil. I felt stunned and wounded at every turn. Kathy was my shield, the best defender. She prepared me as best as she could for court proceedings and helped me understand the law. Kathy consistently and naturally conducts herself with respect and a high moral code. She always treated me as a priority and showed concern about my wellbeing and the wellbeing of my children. I have the utmost respect for Kathy and would recommend her for anyone that needs a compassionate, solid, thorough, and professional attorney.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2024 by Marleen yess
Correction: Tim Chandler was not ever a client of mine. We had no relationship. Therefore his review is harassment by a disgruntled estate beneficiary. The Chandlers I did represent gave me five full stars and referrals.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2022 by Tim chandler
Horrible mismanagement of my family’s Trust for years. One that she wrote herself, amended multiple times, and even went to my grandfather on his deathbed to have him sign an amendment when he was not in a clear state of mind. When asked for an accounting, she stalled for 9 months and then all of a sudden, no longer represents the Trust or Trustee. This woman should have her bar revoked. She will steal your family’s money and do zero work that benefits anybody but herself.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2021 by Jeanette picker
Kathy Campbell is passionate about families. She stood by my side through a very long and contentious divorce; constantly trying to elevate the ordeal to civil. I felt stunned and wounded at every turn. Kathy was my shield, the best defender. She prepared me as best as she could for court proceedings and helped me understand the law. Kathy consistently and naturally conducts herself with respect and a high moral code. She always treated me as a priority and showed concern about my wellbeing and the wellbeing of my children. I have the utmost respect for Kathy and would recommend her for anyone that needs a compassionate, solid, thorough, and professional attorney.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Jun, 2022 by Victoria
I hired Nancy to represent me in divorce and child custody case. Nancy spent an enormous amount of time discussing with opposing counsel and later directly with my x unsignificant events that took place 10 years back. Nancy lost documets I gave her. My fault I didn't make copies. She did not keep any records of all the background information I gave her on the case, and kept asking me to retell her details of things she should have had records of and I has already told her multipletimes verbally. And via emais. When I'd point it out to her, she'd state that it will take her a very long time to go through her records to find relevant information and it's best I retell her, charging me hefty amounts of money for her time. She did that allot, asking same questions she had already asked. It really felt like she was working against me, not for me. She then would mix up information she sent to another party, confusing and complicating things further. She was absolutely no help in child custody. When my x offered Nancy to meet and discuss settlement, Nancy failed to notify me. I learned that directly from my x. She insisted that trial is imminent and she has to "prepare for every possible scenario." When I wanted a settlement and not to deal with the trial. Once I told her that I am not willing to pay her for "what if" and prefer she addresses issues one step at the time, she suggested I find another attorney. Once she figured out I will not be fooled, and she will not be able to keep charging me, she pretty much refused to do her job, dropping me like a hot potato. I wasted allot of hard earned and borrowed money and time, and got nowhere. She mostly stayed mum in the courtroom as well. So if you are dealing with a difficult spouse and a complicated child custody, Nancy is not the right lawyer for you.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Nov, 2015 by Lynda
Hi, My name is Lynda. I wanted to respond to a recent review regarding attorney Nancy Roberts, Esq. In "that review" it said: that Ms. Roberts was "hard to reach"...that she "weakly negotiated or argued" for her clients...that she "failed to file important documents"... and a number of other such accusations. This "review" appalled and sickened me, because it's so far from the truth, it's ridiculous. This is not at all who Ms. Roberts is, or of what one can expect from Ms. Roberts if they should hire her. I am a paralegal and worked many years as a paralegal for family law attorneys in Santa Clara County. I also personally know many other paralegals who work for family law attorneys in Santa Clara county, so I have also had much feedback regarding not only the attorneys they worked for, but also attorneys they have dealt with. After many years of personally dealing with attorneys (and the feedback from other paralegals regarding their experiences with attorneys they worked for and dealt with) I personally know which attorneys are dependable and which are not; which attorneys are ethical and which are not; which attorneys are truly in the business to help their clients and which attorneys are simply out to make a buck. That is why of all the family law attorneys in Santa Clara County, I chose Ms. Roberts to handle my own divorce case. I knew I could trust her. I knew that no other attorney would give such personal attention to my case (not just because she had a duty to do so, but because she truly cares about her clients). I knew she would be fair with me in regards to her attorney fees; that she would look out for my interests (not just because I hired her to do so, but because that she truly cares about her clients); that she would stand strong for me; that she was a good negotiator; and that she could argue my issues better than any other attorney could or would. I knew that she would always keep me informed regarding all issues in my divorce; that she would never fail to prepare and file any and all documents in my case in a timely manner; and that she would always provide me with copies of each and every document in my case (whether it was a pleading filed with the court or a letter sent on my behalf to the opposing counsel/party). I knew that she would always answer or return my telephone calls, e-mails, and/or texts as soon as possible. Ms. Robert upholds the highest standards with regards to her principals and ethics and morals -- and no one could ever influence her to stray from what she knows is the right thing to do; whether the persuasion comes from the opposing counsel/party, or whether it comes from her own client. Ms. Roberts has gained a reputation among the attorneys, paralegals, and "yes" even the judges in Santa Clara County, as one of the best family law attorneys currently in practice. Anyone who is fortunate enough to retain Ms. Roberts as their attorney can remain assured that they have hired one of the best attorneys available in Santa Clara County.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
06 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
A few years ago I was in the middle of a very messy and complicated divorce/custody case. Out of several lawyers choose Mrs. Roberts and never regretted it. All of my questions were answered, all court procedures explained, all process guided. Outstanding knowledge of all possible details, no-nonsence approach, emotional support a domestic violence survivor truly needed... Am I happy with an outcome - yes. Did I send a few friends there - yes. Were they satisfied - yes. Would I come back - sure. Can I recommend Mrs. Roberts - yes, definitely. Am I sure she did everything to the highest standard - absolutely.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
09 Nov, 2023 by Frank moreno
Passionate individual & willing to to go against the establishment
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Mar, 2019 by Salvatruchajam
Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Feb, 2019 by Tina chen
Such nice guy with such ugly skill besides asking ton of money for doing nothing. Please do yourself a favor skip this law firm. Don't need stub yourself in more pain.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
He did nothing whatsoever to help my case. He was unsupportive and had no interest in remembering my case. Every time I went in, it was like ha hadn’t seen me before.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Apr, 2022 by Shierre anne medula
Working with the law office of Cecelia Soboleski has been one of the best decisions I have ever made since my divorce process started. I say this because despite the distance and time difference, I currently live here in the Philippines, we were able to communicate well. She manage to discuss the plans and educate me about the case thru zoom meetings and email. She gives you insight but she let’s you decide on everything. Zoom meetings were arrange so that it would both fit into our schedule. She would definitely reply to questions and clarification thru email. Overall, Cecelia is efficient and truly an expert in her field of practice. Thank you cecelia
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Apr, 2022 by Manish verma
I highly recommend the Law Office of Cecelia Soboleski for all your needs in regards to Family Law whether it is divorce, child custody, spouse/child support, etc. This law office was good at listening to my case details and suggested me what is in best interest of me and my child. I am just happy that I went with this law firm. Thank you for all the good work they are doing to help people get justice.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2024 by Marleen yess
Correction: Tim Chandler was not ever a client of mine. We had no relationship. Therefore his review is harassment by a disgruntled estate beneficiary. The Chandlers I did represent gave me five full stars and referrals.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2022 by Tim chandler
Horrible mismanagement of my family’s Trust for years. One that she wrote herself, amended multiple times, and even went to my grandfather on his deathbed to have him sign an amendment when he was not in a clear state of mind. When asked for an accounting, she stalled for 9 months and then all of a sudden, no longer represents the Trust or Trustee. This woman should have her bar revoked. She will steal your family’s money and do zero work that benefits anybody but herself.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2021 by Jeanette picker
Kathy Campbell is passionate about families. She stood by my side through a very long and contentious divorce; constantly trying to elevate the ordeal to civil. I felt stunned and wounded at every turn. Kathy was my shield, the best defender. She prepared me as best as she could for court proceedings and helped me understand the law. Kathy consistently and naturally conducts herself with respect and a high moral code. She always treated me as a priority and showed concern about my wellbeing and the wellbeing of my children. I have the utmost respect for Kathy and would recommend her for anyone that needs a compassionate, solid, thorough, and professional attorney.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2024 by Marleen yess
Correction: Tim Chandler was not ever a client of mine. We had no relationship. Therefore his review is harassment by a disgruntled estate beneficiary. The Chandlers I did represent gave me five full stars and referrals.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2022 by Tim chandler
Horrible mismanagement of my family’s Trust for years. One that she wrote herself, amended multiple times, and even went to my grandfather on his deathbed to have him sign an amendment when he was not in a clear state of mind. When asked for an accounting, she stalled for 9 months and then all of a sudden, no longer represents the Trust or Trustee. This woman should have her bar revoked. She will steal your family’s money and do zero work that benefits anybody but herself.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2021 by Jeanette picker
Kathy Campbell is passionate about families. She stood by my side through a very long and contentious divorce; constantly trying to elevate the ordeal to civil. I felt stunned and wounded at every turn. Kathy was my shield, the best defender. She prepared me as best as she could for court proceedings and helped me understand the law. Kathy consistently and naturally conducts herself with respect and a high moral code. She always treated me as a priority and showed concern about my wellbeing and the wellbeing of my children. I have the utmost respect for Kathy and would recommend her for anyone that needs a compassionate, solid, thorough, and professional attorney.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2024 by Marleen yess
Correction: Tim Chandler was not ever a client of mine. We had no relationship. Therefore his review is harassment by a disgruntled estate beneficiary. The Chandlers I did represent gave me five full stars and referrals.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2022 by Tim chandler
Horrible mismanagement of my family’s Trust for years. One that she wrote herself, amended multiple times, and even went to my grandfather on his deathbed to have him sign an amendment when he was not in a clear state of mind. When asked for an accounting, she stalled for 9 months and then all of a sudden, no longer represents the Trust or Trustee. This woman should have her bar revoked. She will steal your family’s money and do zero work that benefits anybody but herself.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2021 by Jeanette picker
Kathy Campbell is passionate about families. She stood by my side through a very long and contentious divorce; constantly trying to elevate the ordeal to civil. I felt stunned and wounded at every turn. Kathy was my shield, the best defender. She prepared me as best as she could for court proceedings and helped me understand the law. Kathy consistently and naturally conducts herself with respect and a high moral code. She always treated me as a priority and showed concern about my wellbeing and the wellbeing of my children. I have the utmost respect for Kathy and would recommend her for anyone that needs a compassionate, solid, thorough, and professional attorney.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2024 by Marleen yess
Correction: Tim Chandler was not ever a client of mine. We had no relationship. Therefore his review is harassment by a disgruntled estate beneficiary. The Chandlers I did represent gave me five full stars and referrals.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2022 by Tim chandler
Horrible mismanagement of my family’s Trust for years. One that she wrote herself, amended multiple times, and even went to my grandfather on his deathbed to have him sign an amendment when he was not in a clear state of mind. When asked for an accounting, she stalled for 9 months and then all of a sudden, no longer represents the Trust or Trustee. This woman should have her bar revoked. She will steal your family’s money and do zero work that benefits anybody but herself.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2021 by Jeanette picker
Kathy Campbell is passionate about families. She stood by my side through a very long and contentious divorce; constantly trying to elevate the ordeal to civil. I felt stunned and wounded at every turn. Kathy was my shield, the best defender. She prepared me as best as she could for court proceedings and helped me understand the law. Kathy consistently and naturally conducts herself with respect and a high moral code. She always treated me as a priority and showed concern about my wellbeing and the wellbeing of my children. I have the utmost respect for Kathy and would recommend her for anyone that needs a compassionate, solid, thorough, and professional attorney.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2024 by Marleen yess
Correction: Tim Chandler was not ever a client of mine. We had no relationship. Therefore his review is harassment by a disgruntled estate beneficiary. The Chandlers I did represent gave me five full stars and referrals.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2022 by Tim chandler
Horrible mismanagement of my family’s Trust for years. One that she wrote herself, amended multiple times, and even went to my grandfather on his deathbed to have him sign an amendment when he was not in a clear state of mind. When asked for an accounting, she stalled for 9 months and then all of a sudden, no longer represents the Trust or Trustee. This woman should have her bar revoked. She will steal your family’s money and do zero work that benefits anybody but herself.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2021 by Jeanette picker
Kathy Campbell is passionate about families. She stood by my side through a very long and contentious divorce; constantly trying to elevate the ordeal to civil. I felt stunned and wounded at every turn. Kathy was my shield, the best defender. She prepared me as best as she could for court proceedings and helped me understand the law. Kathy consistently and naturally conducts herself with respect and a high moral code. She always treated me as a priority and showed concern about my wellbeing and the wellbeing of my children. I have the utmost respect for Kathy and would recommend her for anyone that needs a compassionate, solid, thorough, and professional attorney.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
31 Aug, 2024 by Martha e
I chose Henshaw Law Office, because of the strongest reputation they had in the local business community and I am glad I did. Mr. Henshaw's level of highest professionalism and respectful treatment of my case & myself was unparalleled. Having an immense thorough knowledge of the Law, He knew how to craft a solid defense strategy, for my case. He presented the case articulately and with vigor struck down anything the other party said. David was super patient, great listener and communicator I really appreciate that, David is really eloquent and smart, & his work in court was outstanding and gave the final dismissal of my case which I was trying to obtain, this law firm is super up-to date technologically and informative, as well. Also a special thank you to the team at Henshaw Law Offices, they were very friendly, hardworking and caring. everyone was helpful and easy to deal with, Especially Lisa
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2023 by D. c. maclingus
Accepted my retainer. Appeared once for me in court ~ represented me well at that hearing ~ then disappeared allegedly due to health issues. I attempted several times to communicate with Mr. Moore and proceed with my case but he would not answer calls, emails, or letters. I finally had to hire another lawyer to simply contact Mr. Moore to get my files. I had no funds left at that point to continue fighting in the courts, and the child custody decisions made by the court reflected it. To say that Mr. Moore did anything for me aside from representing me the one time in court would be a gross overstatement in my opinion. I sincerely hope that Mr. Moore’s health has dramatically improved along with the quantity and quality of his work. No one should ever have to experience the unnecessary sense of loss and grief that I, alone experienced while Mr. Moore was engaged as my legal counsel.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
09 Nov, 2023 by Frank moreno
Passionate individual & willing to to go against the establishment
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Mar, 2019 by Salvatruchajam
Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Feb, 2019 by Tina chen
Such nice guy with such ugly skill besides asking ton of money for doing nothing. Please do yourself a favor skip this law firm. Don't need stub yourself in more pain.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2023 by Durrab
Worst experience with this firm. They are just making a money with chit chat and put you in trouble - Lawyers of this firm are not capable to provide strong arguments - They will put you in trouble and make your simple case to more complex - Today I am completely broken because of them. They will promise you for number of things but at the end they will make you loose your case. I strongly recommend you to not go with this firm as you are just a project for them and they simply make money out of you and at the end you are at the loosing end - So far I learned that you should fight your case by your own - They are not here to help you but to make money out of you.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
He is very sarcastic and do not care for their clients. Only cares about money.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Oct, 2016 by Patty
I have used Derek as my Family Lawyer for 7 years now. He continues to represent me in the up most professional manner as well as keep me informed of what is going on with my case. I have recommended him to several people and would continue to do so. It's nice to know there are still attorney's around with such integrity!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
13 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
What this attorney is good about is trying to extract as much money from the other side without any regard to ethics. She is not particularly good at that either. Between my ex and I we spend 10s of thousands of dollars because of this attorney's suggestions which unnecessarily complicated matters. This money could have gone towards our children's needs for help and support during very difficult times. Instead, the money went into the attorneys` pockets. There is a lot to be said about how divorces are handled in the US with all the greed of everyone involved in this disgusting industry. Attorneys like this should be taken their licenses away because they pretend to protect their clients when in reality they are motivated by one thing only - money.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Jul, 2012 by John
Pro's: easy to talk to, explained concepts well Con's: disappeared for months at a time, did not respond to requests for status, had to be threatened to get a response, did not file paperwork in a timely manner, did not have appropriate "presence" in court (too timid). She's no longer in Campbell, btw.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Nov, 2010 by Tiffany
I hired Jessica initially to help with visitation and support for a move to a different state. She wrote up the document but didn't fight very hard to get me the child support recommended by California State, it was about half of what California said I should get, then when I contacted her again to rewrite this document with a new schedule and child support associated she totally dropped the ball when she couldn't get my ex-husband's financial information then wouldn't return a call or email for over 2 years. I finally got the half written document from the receptionist after Jessica left the firm. So now I'm out tens of thousands of dollars in child support which could have gone for my sons college education. I'm also terrified to go to any other lawyer for fear they are going to take $10,000 for not much work.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Do not support. Shiva killed a little boy In a school zone at a four way stop intersection while speeding. How are you speeding when your coming from a stop sign? Must of ran through the stop sign during school hours. She has not had any arrest made or time served.
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

Top Questions to Ask a Lawyer

When meeting with a lawyer for the first time, it's important to ask the right questions to understand their expertise and determine if they're the right fit for your legal needs. Here are some top questions to consider:

  1. What experience do you have with cases similar to mine?
    Ensure the lawyer has relevant experience in the specific area of law pertaining to your case.
  2. How do you charge for your services, and what are the estimated costs?
    Understand the fee structure, including hourly rates, flat fees, retainer fees, and any additional expenses.
  3. What potential outcomes can I expect from my case?
    While no lawyer can guarantee results, they can provide an assessment of possible scenarios based on their experience.
  4. What is your approach to handling cases like mine?
    Learn about their strategy, whether they prefer negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
  5. Who will be working on my case?
    Find out if the lawyer will handle your case personally or delegate tasks to other attorneys or paralegals.
  6. How will you communicate with me throughout the process?
    Establish expectations for updates, preferred communication methods, and response times.
  7. What is the likely timeline for resolving my case?
    Get an estimate of how long the process may take from start to finish.
  8. Do you have references from past clients?
    Testimonials or references can provide insight into the lawyer's professionalism and effectiveness.
  9. What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
    Understanding potential challenges helps you prepare and sets realistic expectations.
  10. Are there alternative ways to solve my legal problem?
    Discuss options like mediation, arbitration, or settlement to resolve the issue efficiently.

How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer

Before hiring a lawyer, it's crucial to verify their credibility and ensure they're qualified to handle your case:

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your initial meeting with a lawyer, come prepared with:

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

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a lawyer varies widely based on several factors:

  • Fee Structures:
    • Hourly Rate:
      Lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on experience and location.
    • Flat Fee:
      For routine legal services like drafting a will or handling an uncontested divorce, lawyers might offer a flat fee.
    • Retainer Fee:
      An upfront payment against which the lawyer bills hourly fees.
    • Contingency Fee:
      Common in personal injury cases; the lawyer receives a percentage (typically 25% to 40%) of any settlement or award.
    • Monthly Retainer:
      For ongoing services, businesses might pay a monthly fee for a set number of hours or services.
  • Factors Affecting Cost:
    • Complexity of the Case:
      More complex cases require more time and resources, increasing costs.
    • Lawyer's Experience:
      Highly experienced lawyers may charge higher fees.
    • Geographic Location:
      Legal fees can vary significantly by region or city.
    • Additional Expenses:
      Court filing fees, expert witness fees, travel expenses, and administrative costs may be extra.
  • Estimating Total Costs:
    Request a detailed fee agreement outlining all potential costs.
    Discuss any additional expenses that may arise during the case.
  • Negotiating Fees:
    Some lawyers may be willing to negotiate fees or offer payment plans, especially for clients with financial constraints.
  • Pro Bono Services:
    For those who cannot afford legal services, some lawyers or legal aid organizations offer services at reduced rates or for free.
Scroll to top