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21 Sep, 2024 by Eddy1251
Highly recommend results were great and he was very helpful throughout the entire process. 10/10 would contact again if I ever have any legal issues.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Hillary bialecki
Richard is very knowledgeable regarding the steps a client should take prior to litigation. He was understanding, patient, and did a wonderful job explaining the possible outcomes of the case! You're in good hands.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Clifton brown
Very professional Lawyer! Highly recommend!
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20 Dec, 2023 by Deb
Richard treated me with dignity and respect on my arrest for a DWI. His solid knowledge and background gave me clear and realistic expectations for my case. I would hire him again if needed.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Ash
It had been our pleasure working with mr. Richard on our case. He has been very meticulous in handling the matter alongside us and has been excellent in his demeanour. We have felt very taken care of especially as he always made us feel he was really involved and concerned for us. Beyond his excellent work ethic and our great outcome he has very competitive pricing which makes using his service a no brainer. Thank you again Mr. Richard, we are very grateful for your help and services!
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05 Dec, 2022 by Henry
Had an issue with my license and could not get anyone on phone to figure out what to do. Instead of driving to district personally to get someone’s attention I hired Richard and just over a week later paperwork was sent to me and I’m in process of taking care of this issue. Thank you Richard Shaw!
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04 Oct, 2021 by Jessica
Elaina has represented me in my divorce proceedings and is still currently. Multiple times, she’s offered key advice and made concessions that make sense to try and come to agreement with my ex-spouse. She’s had timely and relevant discussion with me regarding finances and concessions I’m willing to make. She’s also made recommendations that, while tough to swallow, have been important and helpful to moving my case along. Her solid relationship with the AFC and the law clerk have helped tremendously on my case.
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24 Mar, 2021 by Julie
I hired Elaina when I was going through a custody battle and of all the things I could say about her, the one I'll focus on is that in a time when everything felt so uncertain, she really listened. She really cared. I didn't feel like a client, I felt like I had someone on my side who was truly invested in the outcome of my situation. I can't express clearly enough the value of that and I truly believe that's a rare quality in a person in this field. I never for a moment felt like she was counting minutes for billing, which is something I often hear of other's experiences in situations where you have to retain legal counsel. If you want someone who will fight for you like you've known each other for years, this is your lawyer.
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15 Mar, 2021 by Connie
I could not have hired anyone with more expertise and compassion during my divorce. I'm so thankful that she took my case while I was having a complete melt down. I would highly recommend Elaina Monte to represent them while making this life major changing decision in their life.
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29 Apr, 2015 by Bob
Tracy Heims was outstanding to work with. Started my LLC and with Tracy's help I felt assured I was doing the right things. From start to finish, Tracy Heims kept me informed and updated. I would recommend her to anyone!
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29 Dec, 2014 by Patti w
Very friendly, professional and thorough. She was a pleasure to work with gathering all the needed documents for my mothers property in order to sell it. Would definitely recommend her and use her again if needed.
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09 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Tracy is an excellent lawyer. She is knowledgeable and friendly. She is willing to go the extra mile and provides honest feedback. She took care if all our paperwork very quickly and dealt with our many "bumps in the road" with a smile and expertise. We would highly recommend Tracy!
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28 Jun, 2023 by Deanna van pyrz
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22 Jul, 2022 by Eric burkard
Stanley's attention to detail and follow up were outstanding throughout the process of selling our property. I've dealt with multiple real estate law firms over the years, but none with the personal attention and detail that Stanley provided. Hands down, the best!
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07 Jun, 2021 by Judd pellow
Dedicated to your legal matters, responsive with communication both phone & email, their family has been handling law for many generations. I would highly recommend Kwieciak to handle your Estates, Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorney and other legal matters. My father went to school with the late Richard S. Kwieciak and now his son, Stanley Kwieciak III, Esq has taken over the practice and with the knowledgeable Maryanna in the office to handle your legal issues, you're in very competent hands. Not the largest or most publicized law firm in WNY, you won't see expensive commercials from them, however they are easy to work with & accessibility matters. I'd classify Kwieciak PLLC as diligent professionals who are willing to accommodate your needs during the most difficult times, I was satisfied with how they handled our legal affairs and would recommend them if you are looking for quality affordable legal counsel.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Deanna van pyrz
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22 Jul, 2022 by Eric burkard
Stanley's attention to detail and follow up were outstanding throughout the process of selling our property. I've dealt with multiple real estate law firms over the years, but none with the personal attention and detail that Stanley provided. Hands down, the best!
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07 Jun, 2021 by Judd pellow
Dedicated to your legal matters, responsive with communication both phone & email, their family has been handling law for many generations. I would highly recommend Kwieciak to handle your Estates, Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorney and other legal matters. My father went to school with the late Richard S. Kwieciak and now his son, Stanley Kwieciak III, Esq has taken over the practice and with the knowledgeable Maryanna in the office to handle your legal issues, you're in very competent hands. Not the largest or most publicized law firm in WNY, you won't see expensive commercials from them, however they are easy to work with & accessibility matters. I'd classify Kwieciak PLLC as diligent professionals who are willing to accommodate your needs during the most difficult times, I was satisfied with how they handled our legal affairs and would recommend them if you are looking for quality affordable legal counsel.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Deanna van pyrz
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22 Jul, 2022 by Eric burkard
Stanley's attention to detail and follow up were outstanding throughout the process of selling our property. I've dealt with multiple real estate law firms over the years, but none with the personal attention and detail that Stanley provided. Hands down, the best!
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07 Jun, 2021 by Judd pellow
Dedicated to your legal matters, responsive with communication both phone & email, their family has been handling law for many generations. I would highly recommend Kwieciak to handle your Estates, Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorney and other legal matters. My father went to school with the late Richard S. Kwieciak and now his son, Stanley Kwieciak III, Esq has taken over the practice and with the knowledgeable Maryanna in the office to handle your legal issues, you're in very competent hands. Not the largest or most publicized law firm in WNY, you won't see expensive commercials from them, however they are easy to work with & accessibility matters. I'd classify Kwieciak PLLC as diligent professionals who are willing to accommodate your needs during the most difficult times, I was satisfied with how they handled our legal affairs and would recommend them if you are looking for quality affordable legal counsel.
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09 Dec, 2021 by Diane szczepanowski
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08 Dec, 2017 by Hyview webmaster
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10 Nov, 2014 by Karl
I am an attorney myself and have been friends with Mr. Granville, since 1988. Regardless, I have never been around an attorney who has more nice things said about him them James Granville. I mean everyone likes this man clients, Judges, Lawyers. He is also a very highly skilled lawyer who has helped me personally and professional many times.
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25 Jul, 2012 by James
On 6-24-2011 I contacted Mr. James Granville to handle my expungement case. On 6/29/2011 Mr. Granville reviewed the faxes I sent him which represented the work I had done on my case and advised he would take my case. The expungement was successful and corrected on 10/03/2011. There was only one instance where I had to request an update from Mr. Granville between 06/29 and 10/03. Throughout that period Mr. Granville kept me up to date via e-mails which was very appreciated and most professional. I would highly recommend Mr. Granville.
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13 May, 2020 by Jason
Danielle is helping me with my fathers estate and me preparing my will. She is very knowledgeable and listens well and helps to make these difficult things go smoothly. She is very detailed and keeps me informed and always is available when I need to speak with her. She calls back the same day if she is in a meeting when I call. She is very understanding and tells you just like it is. I have requested non traditional things be put in my will and she has found a way to do that. She is a pleasure to work with and is easy to talk with she doesn’t lawyer you she talks to me like a person.
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23 Oct, 2015 by Tara
While I've Moved from the Williamsville area to Houston Tx over 15-Yrs ago,My Job Remains In Bflo,and I Spent the First 45Yrs In the Bflo Area! Reason I Mention This at All is Because I Find Myself Calling Jim Verrastro for the 2nd Time since being In Houston (This Time for a Friend) When stumbling onto 'This' Review System,I Felt I'd Really be Remiss to Local Buffalonians if they weren't Aware of What a Treasure they had at their Fingertips in Jim Verrastro!! It's Really for "2" Point Reasons I Say This! 1)Trust & Belief Your Lawyer Will Tell You the Truth and DO His/Her Utmost to be Honest with You (and My Case was a rare & Impossible to Explain having an Ex who literally Refused to Accept the Divorce MANY Years Later)which brings Me to My 2nd Point.. 2) Jim Verrastros' "Empathy" For His Clients!! Jim Verrastro REALLY UNDERSTANDS How Emotionally Charged (and or) How Devastated His Clients Can Be During Their Litigations! I Understand His area of 'Expertise' has Changed over the Years,but His Empathy with Clients, has Not. I Do believe any time you Trust an Attorney to periodically but Repeatedly Call for their 'Expert' Opinion, (over the course of 35Years) it's Worth noting. In My case (No pun intended) I Have Had 'Free' Legal' Services with Wonderful Buffalo/Detroit /and Nationwide Attorneys through My Job!! Yet when I Needed to Reach Beyond My Own Legal Teams for a Trusted Opinion, I Called On (or Referred) James Verrastro!! In closing, I Definitely Believe Anyone else who Hires Jim Will be Very Confident They've got the Right Man Representing Them. I Understand 'Personal' Opinions Aren't Welcome in these Reviews,but I'd be very remiss if I Failed to Tell You about 35 Years Ago I thought Mr.Verrastro would've made a Spectacular Judge to Benefit All Western New Yorkers.. Respectfully, Tara
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19 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
John was my second attorney hired after I almost lost my home with a previous attorney. John agreed to take over my case. His staff was very knowledgeable,attentive and supportive. They responded to my phone calls and emails promptly, at times I was "over the top" but was handled very professionally and with respect. I was finally able to remodify my loan and keep my home with a wonderful attorney in his office by the name of Jane Wolfe. I am eternally grateful to him and his staff. Thank you so much
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02 Jun, 2024 by Shane monte
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06 Feb, 2024 by Linda
She'll steal your money. Steal everything you love and traumatize children for profit. That's if your her client...not opposition
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03 Nov, 2023 by Michael owczarczak
Deletes reviews that doesn’t satisfy her agenda!
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10 Feb, 2024 by Marc dombrowski
Great Staff, Great results. They have a lot of experience and are well known in WNY as quality attorneys. I had 2 entities formed and closed on two properties over a 6 year period, using them. Always a good experience.
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25 Oct, 2022 by Aleksa bacaje
Pross
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09 May, 2022 by Chrissie s
I did not have this experience at all! Yes, seemed very pleasant going through the transaction but afterwards not good at all. I had a relocation and he was a referral from the realtor to whom I also reported. Well, he did not make me aware of an easement on my property, as well as a handful of significant matters. Yes, he did have advanced knowledge. He also exposed me to great harm because of his failure to review properly my documents. He does not have clean hands at all, and when you call him on it, he deflects. I closed in 12/2019 and yes have taken proper escalation to curb the poor lawyering.
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10 Feb, 2024 by Marc dombrowski
Great Staff, Great results. They have a lot of experience and are well known in WNY as quality attorneys. I had 2 entities formed and closed on two properties over a 6 year period, using them. Always a good experience.
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25 Oct, 2022 by Aleksa bacaje
Pross
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09 May, 2022 by Chrissie s
I did not have this experience at all! Yes, seemed very pleasant going through the transaction but afterwards not good at all. I had a relocation and he was a referral from the realtor to whom I also reported. Well, he did not make me aware of an easement on my property, as well as a handful of significant matters. Yes, he did have advanced knowledge. He also exposed me to great harm because of his failure to review properly my documents. He does not have clean hands at all, and when you call him on it, he deflects. I closed in 12/2019 and yes have taken proper escalation to curb the poor lawyering.
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10 Feb, 2024 by Marc dombrowski
Great Staff, Great results. They have a lot of experience and are well known in WNY as quality attorneys. I had 2 entities formed and closed on two properties over a 6 year period, using them. Always a good experience.
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25 Oct, 2022 by Aleksa bacaje
Pross
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09 May, 2022 by Chrissie s
I did not have this experience at all! Yes, seemed very pleasant going through the transaction but afterwards not good at all. I had a relocation and he was a referral from the realtor to whom I also reported. Well, he did not make me aware of an easement on my property, as well as a handful of significant matters. Yes, he did have advanced knowledge. He also exposed me to great harm because of his failure to review properly my documents. He does not have clean hands at all, and when you call him on it, he deflects. I closed in 12/2019 and yes have taken proper escalation to curb the poor lawyering.
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10 Feb, 2024 by Marc dombrowski
Great Staff, Great results. They have a lot of experience and are well known in WNY as quality attorneys. I had 2 entities formed and closed on two properties over a 6 year period, using them. Always a good experience.
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star star star star star
25 Oct, 2022 by Aleksa bacaje
Pross
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09 May, 2022 by Chrissie s
I did not have this experience at all! Yes, seemed very pleasant going through the transaction but afterwards not good at all. I had a relocation and he was a referral from the realtor to whom I also reported. Well, he did not make me aware of an easement on my property, as well as a handful of significant matters. Yes, he did have advanced knowledge. He also exposed me to great harm because of his failure to review properly my documents. He does not have clean hands at all, and when you call him on it, he deflects. I closed in 12/2019 and yes have taken proper escalation to curb the poor lawyering.
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20 May, 2024 by Kasem hassan
Best ever attorney
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14 May, 2024 by Vickie wright
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10 Apr, 2024 by Kristy lavalle
Do not return calls. Unprofessional and not looking to help people. Only care about how much money they make off of people.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Renee fields
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18 Jul, 2024 by Syed shaiqullah
Good lawyers. Helped us with our home.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Spamonrye1
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29 Jul, 2024 by Renee fields
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18 Jul, 2024 by Syed shaiqullah
Good lawyers. Helped us with our home.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Spamonrye1
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19 Apr, 2024 by Kathy
I met Jeff through a mutual friend. He assisted me with a ticket. When I was injured in a slip and fall, he represented me and did a great job, the entire time concerned with my well being. He was compassionate, caring as well as accessible. Years before I was rear ended in a serious car accident. He did a wonderful and thorough job with his expertise. I would recommend him to everyone.
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31 Oct, 2020 by Sarah
Excellent attorney. Did a perfect job defending my sister. He listened and got her record expunged
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02 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Was offered a mistaminer in the beginning of my case and ended up pleading guilty to a E felony WTF? Run don't walk away
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18 Sep, 2024 by Henri
Sold my house, VALLONE didn't tell me buyer (Buffalo Brick Mortar) hired Valone to represent me at my expense, which is illegal to do. Then I lost over $10,000 in one day because VALLONE and his staff worked on BBMs behalf, obviously not mine.
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15 May, 2015 by Irene
Eric and his staff are a group of professionals that treat your situation as it were there own. Very approachable and knowledgeable. We have dealt with the Vallone family of Attorney's for 20 years.. and will continue to do so.
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26 Apr, 2015 by James
Eric and the Vallone Law Firm have always been very informative, timely in their responses, and efficient with closings for my clients, and for myself and wife recently. Jim and Eric, the paralegals, Rachel and Clare, and administrative staff of Gina, Cindy, and Kim are knowledgeable and highly ethical in all their transactions. I recommend the Vallone Law firm on a regular basis to my clients. I trust them to handle even the most difficult closings and look forward to our continued, beneficial association.
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09 Dec, 2021 by Diane szczepanowski
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25 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
documents hostage, not returning them or answering calls. When someone took off work to pick them up, no one showed. Took months to get them back. I don't think I have ever had a professional interaction with anyone, in any capacity, this horrible. Don't even consider this guy. I was about to report him to the state when we finally got the documents he refused to act on back in our hands.
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29 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I used this firm for the closing on my house. Any time I talked to the paralegal you could hear her swearing at you as she hung up, in fact the day I went to the office to sign my paperwork I had an 11am appointment, I arrived on time, it was a minor holiday so there were no attorneys or other clients and she still made me wait a half hour so she could tell the other girl in the office about her weekend (her story was so filled with vulgarities it was embarrassing to sit there and hear it). The closing occurred, even then they never called to tell me that it happened after many delays. I was then promised my money by a certain date, never happened. Promised again, never happened. I had to get the news and attorney grievance committee involved almost 5 weeks after closing (normal turn around should be 24-48 hours, I was aware that the paralegal was out of town when the closing occurred, but this was ridiculous) It is now 2 months and they do not return calls or e-mails about sending any paperwork at all as an accounting or proof that the closing even took place. The last time I called you could hear both girls in the office laughing and making crude comments as they hung up - get a clue, people can still hear you until the phone is in the cradle. They gave me a song and dance about payment (smokescreen) that they were changing checking accounts so they were afraid I would not deposit a large check right away (yeah right) and this would hold it up. If they sent me my money when they promised it would have been cashed weeks before this excuse. There are several other people I can name by name who have had similar experiences with this firm.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
How does your attorney make more money than you on your own settlement? Never heard that in my life. He is a con artist and told me false information. I asked him five times. How much do I owe my medical before I settled he told me amount and it turned out to be six times more.
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12 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Rich and staff were very professional and courteous throughout my personal injury case. The staff was very helpful filling out paperwork and getting all of my documents to the insurance company.
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23 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Unfortunately, I acquired this lawyer to litigate a matter my child had experienced. In the beginning Mr. Paluch was attentive and involved, as time progressed he completely stopped returning my calls. I left about 4 or 5 voice messages, all of which went unanswered. Today, I received a letter that he no longer had interest in the matter. It was very cowardly of him to not even return a call or at least take the time to explain his stance on the matter face to face. Horrible and untrusting business practice. Think twice before you sign the dotted line with this guy.
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17 Feb, 2016 by Marty
Steve is extremely knowledgeable about personal injury law, and took the time to explain the entire process step by step. His experience encompasses any and all injury types, and he was especially helpful representing me with my car crash injury. Steve was always accessible by either phone, email or text, and responded promptly. He came to my home during the initial consult, made sound recommendations for care, and was extremely thorough when gathering medical documentation. I can absolutely recommend Steve Paluch for anyone who is searching for a competent and experienced personal injury attorney.
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05 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Boeck has accrued a wealth of information over his years practicing law. He not only aided us with all the legal needs we had (my father was very ill and we wanted to keep him home as long as possible), but he also helped us with several other resources that helped support my mom as she processed through his illness and eventual death. I HIGHLY recommend him. He's honest, helpful, and knowledgeable. He actually saved my mother money because he had the experience to know my father would not be getting better. How many attorneys save clients money? I don't know of many.
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07 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
I do not recommend Daniel Boeck or his staff. They are extremely incompetent. They take forever to get work completed and then it still is not correct, they do not follow instructions and give incorrect information. You must continually follow up on every detail. One of their major mishaps was they did not complete a power of attorney or will correctly which later resulted in a legal dispute.
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05 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I'm currently in Family Court. Blackhall is the law guardian for my child but she is far from a guardian. She's one sided and judgmental. And because of her lack of professionalism the most important person she's to look out for falls by the waste side (a child). Blackhall has demonstrated that she is bias and she has the ability to improperly influence the judge to get the results she wants. I would not recommend Blackhall as your attorney for a child or even for a pet.
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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.
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