Filter by

star star star star star
11 May, 2022 by John
Where do I begin? I spent 10 years battling a child custody matter with another Law firm and wasted several thousands of dollars. I hired Michael Meth back in January and we have been to court twice and each time I saw results. Michael has done for me in just a couple of months what the other law firm couldn't accomplish in 10 years. If only I had hired Michael from the beginning. Live and learn. I highly recommend Michael and I know you will be truly satisfied with the results. When you hire Michael Meth you get Michael Meth.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Feb, 2017 by Bryan
Mr. Meth and his team have represented me in criminal defense on multiple occasions, which admittedly does not say a lot for my character... I'm a young, stubborn and foolish man; blinded by my own arrogance and alcoholism and abhorrent decision making, I found myself making the same mistakes over and over again. Anyone who has been involved in the criminal justice system, whether you're the defense attorney, the DA, a judge or the defendant, you know that presiding judges do NOT look favorably upon repeat offenders. I first hired Meth law in 2014. From start to finish Mr. Meth, who always conducted himself professionally and respectfully to me, was able to navigate my case to a favorable disposition. In hindsight, what I respect the most about Mr. Meth's representation was that he did not just focus on the best outcome for me, right from the start he strongly encouraged and directed me to treatment for alcoholism during the case and even for after the case. Had i listened there is a good chance that the story would end right there, but alas, as i aforementioned I was stubborn and stupid. The following year I hired Meth Law again for a related, but not the exact same charge. Again Mr. Meth was able to get me a very favorable disposition. Seeing the behavioral pattern, he reminded and encouraged me to seek help and follow through instead of just half-assed participation and going through the motions. Again I didn't listen. Finally, in a particularly egregious and flagrant repeat of the original offense, I once again found myself in serious trouble (like the arraignment judge sets 5 figure bail on you kind if trouble) and in need of Meth Law's service. After barely affording the bail to get myself out of jail I found myself significantly short on the retainer fee to hire Meth Law. Understand the financial ruin I was in from posting bail and seeing my desperation and ability to make payments, Mr. Meth was very, very, reasonable and fair to let me pay half down and payments on the remaining balance while representing me from square 1. Instead of being entirely grateful, admittedly, at times i was a NIGHTMARE client to deal with. Between the fear over my future and my alcoholism, I was at times argumentative, combative and belligerent with the very people who were there to help and represent me. From reading applicable law sections, several applicable cases and case citations I led myself to believe that I knew more than I did and constantly argued with my representation, which as practicing attorneys, extremely intelligent men and women and law school graduates, had to have been woefully annoying. I acted childish and selfish, like I was the only client they had to worry about when it obviously was not the case. In spite of all of that... in spite of lashing out while having nobody to blame but myself... I was given a stern reminder of the way things were and why, all the while being treated respectfully without condescension and the utmost professionalism. I finally listened to Mr. Meth's advice and he guided me to excellent professional help for my alcoholism. I am going on 2 years sober to this day, I wish I listened sooner. I wound up having to do some time, and I deserved it. If it wasn't for Meth Law I would've had to do way more and would've come out of the correctional system irreparably broken and directionless like so many others. In spite of making many awful and stupid mistakes, I was given one last chance to get things right and make something of myself before I became a washed up, old loser... and I have Meth Law to thank for that. The retainer fees were always fair, Mr. Meth and his staff: Evan, Bianca, Tara, Christina were all fantastic extremely professional and courteous. They always responded to my inquiries immediately or ASAP and despite my immaturities, I was always treated with respect. I cant say enough good about this firm, I recommend them 100% Thank you Meth Law for your help and representation!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2016 by Frank golio
Stuck in a hotel with my two children after being ordered by judge to not leave the state to go back to our home in FL Michael Picked up my call at 7 am on Saturday Morning. From that moment on I shut up and listened (for the most part) and he has been by my side over the past year and half fighting for my rights and my children's best interest. Michael in a matter of days had his team on my case and corrected the wrong that was done by the Judge and my previous attorney and sent us home where we belonged. At my first court appearance with Michael with in seconds of him standing up and fighting for us I knew all I had to do was sit back and let him work. He is beyond intelligent, very quick on his feet and has no fear of fighting for his clients be it with opposing counsel or a judge. He is truly and advocate for his clients. Michael and his team are second to none. We have been in the lower court (family/supreme) and the higher court (Appellate division) and he has continued to prevail on every level even in the face of some heavy adversity within the courts. If you find yourself in need of a legal team to support you and guide you on winning your case without having to mortgage your home and go into debt for the rest of your life and who genuinely cares, Meth law is the right place. If you don't have him, get him..
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
10 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I have been represented by Dave on a few occasions; from BAD speeding tickets, to facing felony Marijuana charges. Every time I contact Dave, he personally responds and does so very quickly. Dave is very polite, affordable, well spoken and is a force to be reckoned with in any courtroom. He is ALWAYS on time to court and is willing to jump through hoops to get his client the best outcome (regardless of the severity of the case). When I retain Dave, the stress from getting in trouble immediately disappears because I know my case will be resolved with the best possible outcome. I HIGHLY recommend, AT THE VERY LEAST, consulting Dave. You will not regret it. He saved my future, and, to me, not being a felon is priceless.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Gove represented me on a criminal case. He put together a great strategy for my defense. He was always there to answer any questions and/or concerns that I had. I highly recommend him to anyone that is looking for a great attorney.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
03 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
My experience with Mr. Noe has been nothing short of excellent, through these difficult times. He was a calming and confident presence during various divorce and custody proceedings and trials. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received through his guidance and experience.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2024 by Rich shadrin
Without a doubt CLL, a full service tax and tax attorney firm whose partners and support staff are professional while remaining sensitive to clients who bring some very complicated issue before them. They have successfully represented me with the IRS, as they have an excellent relationship with agents, their documentation and discussions concerning my issues were concluded most satisfactorily. In addition, they prepare my personal and LLC taxes every year with no 'surprises' from the IRS or NYS. Highly recommended. Anything negative reported suggests to me the client was in some way responsible or unreasonably expecting fiduciary miracles when in most cases numbers are, well numbers.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2023 by Zalmen goldman
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2023 by Sunita khemai
Have been using Feras for our taxes for a few years and he’s prompt, professional and very educated on the latest updates.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Oxana Lukina, experienced  attorney in Chester, NY with 16 reviews
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.3
15 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2024 by Rich shadrin
Without a doubt CLL, a full service tax and tax attorney firm whose partners and support staff are professional while remaining sensitive to clients who bring some very complicated issue before them. They have successfully represented me with the IRS, as they have an excellent relationship with agents, their documentation and discussions concerning my issues were concluded most satisfactorily. In addition, they prepare my personal and LLC taxes every year with no 'surprises' from the IRS or NYS. Highly recommended. Anything negative reported suggests to me the client was in some way responsible or unreasonably expecting fiduciary miracles when in most cases numbers are, well numbers.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2023 by Zalmen goldman
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2023 by Sunita khemai
Have been using Feras for our taxes for a few years and he’s prompt, professional and very educated on the latest updates.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
01 Oct, 2017 by Frank
Great lawyer had him as a public defender and one of the best i have ever had. I recommend him, and if you get him as a public defender you are in good hands.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
It doesn't allow me to give 3.5 stars, but that's what I would rate Trevor. PROS: Trevor knows his stuff, I commend him for that. I have no doubt as his career progresses, he will further develop a keen legal mind. Provides decent advice and tells it like it is for the most part. I would like to see his aggressive/assertive personality come out a bit more in the courtroom, and hey, it's ok to challenge and question authority. That comes with experience. CONS: Not always accessible via the telephone, and appears, probably like most attorneys, to take on a bit more than he can handle at one time (I know, we all have to eat and have bills to pay). Like a lot of experiences I have had with doctors, lawyers, etc., and this appears to be the norm today, I did not feel that my case was a "priority", both in actions (many adjournments the last minute) and communication wise. Like I said, I can not single anyone out here, as this is the norm, and I've actually had one experience, a doctor(dermatologist) who I know went down every avenue to help my situation-dedication, commitment, high degree of integrity. It's unfortunately very rare today. Food for thought for everyone to be introspective on how they handle and present themselves today. I would recommend Trevor to someone under the right circumstances.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 May, 2017 by Frank
This guy will do anything for you he will fight to the end he is very knowledgeable of the laws I've had him for my divorce and also Family Court matters and also legal matters in traffic court excellent excellent lawyer have nothing bad to say about this guy
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2024 by Rich shadrin
Without a doubt CLL, a full service tax and tax attorney firm whose partners and support staff are professional while remaining sensitive to clients who bring some very complicated issue before them. They have successfully represented me with the IRS, as they have an excellent relationship with agents, their documentation and discussions concerning my issues were concluded most satisfactorily. In addition, they prepare my personal and LLC taxes every year with no 'surprises' from the IRS or NYS. Highly recommended. Anything negative reported suggests to me the client was in some way responsible or unreasonably expecting fiduciary miracles when in most cases numbers are, well numbers.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2023 by Zalmen goldman
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2023 by Sunita khemai
Have been using Feras for our taxes for a few years and he’s prompt, professional and very educated on the latest updates.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2024 by Rich shadrin
Without a doubt CLL, a full service tax and tax attorney firm whose partners and support staff are professional while remaining sensitive to clients who bring some very complicated issue before them. They have successfully represented me with the IRS, as they have an excellent relationship with agents, their documentation and discussions concerning my issues were concluded most satisfactorily. In addition, they prepare my personal and LLC taxes every year with no 'surprises' from the IRS or NYS. Highly recommended. Anything negative reported suggests to me the client was in some way responsible or unreasonably expecting fiduciary miracles when in most cases numbers are, well numbers.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2023 by Zalmen goldman
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2023 by Sunita khemai
Have been using Feras for our taxes for a few years and he’s prompt, professional and very educated on the latest updates.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2024 by Rich shadrin
Without a doubt CLL, a full service tax and tax attorney firm whose partners and support staff are professional while remaining sensitive to clients who bring some very complicated issue before them. They have successfully represented me with the IRS, as they have an excellent relationship with agents, their documentation and discussions concerning my issues were concluded most satisfactorily. In addition, they prepare my personal and LLC taxes every year with no 'surprises' from the IRS or NYS. Highly recommended. Anything negative reported suggests to me the client was in some way responsible or unreasonably expecting fiduciary miracles when in most cases numbers are, well numbers.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2023 by Zalmen goldman
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2023 by Sunita khemai
Have been using Feras for our taxes for a few years and he’s prompt, professional and very educated on the latest updates.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2024 by Rich shadrin
Without a doubt CLL, a full service tax and tax attorney firm whose partners and support staff are professional while remaining sensitive to clients who bring some very complicated issue before them. They have successfully represented me with the IRS, as they have an excellent relationship with agents, their documentation and discussions concerning my issues were concluded most satisfactorily. In addition, they prepare my personal and LLC taxes every year with no 'surprises' from the IRS or NYS. Highly recommended. Anything negative reported suggests to me the client was in some way responsible or unreasonably expecting fiduciary miracles when in most cases numbers are, well numbers.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2023 by Zalmen goldman
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2023 by Sunita khemai
Have been using Feras for our taxes for a few years and he’s prompt, professional and very educated on the latest updates.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2024 by Rich shadrin
Without a doubt CLL, a full service tax and tax attorney firm whose partners and support staff are professional while remaining sensitive to clients who bring some very complicated issue before them. They have successfully represented me with the IRS, as they have an excellent relationship with agents, their documentation and discussions concerning my issues were concluded most satisfactorily. In addition, they prepare my personal and LLC taxes every year with no 'surprises' from the IRS or NYS. Highly recommended. Anything negative reported suggests to me the client was in some way responsible or unreasonably expecting fiduciary miracles when in most cases numbers are, well numbers.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2023 by Zalmen goldman
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2023 by Sunita khemai
Have been using Feras for our taxes for a few years and he’s prompt, professional and very educated on the latest updates.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2024 by Rich shadrin
Without a doubt CLL, a full service tax and tax attorney firm whose partners and support staff are professional while remaining sensitive to clients who bring some very complicated issue before them. They have successfully represented me with the IRS, as they have an excellent relationship with agents, their documentation and discussions concerning my issues were concluded most satisfactorily. In addition, they prepare my personal and LLC taxes every year with no 'surprises' from the IRS or NYS. Highly recommended. Anything negative reported suggests to me the client was in some way responsible or unreasonably expecting fiduciary miracles when in most cases numbers are, well numbers.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2023 by Zalmen goldman
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2023 by Sunita khemai
Have been using Feras for our taxes for a few years and he’s prompt, professional and very educated on the latest updates.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2024 by Rich shadrin
Without a doubt CLL, a full service tax and tax attorney firm whose partners and support staff are professional while remaining sensitive to clients who bring some very complicated issue before them. They have successfully represented me with the IRS, as they have an excellent relationship with agents, their documentation and discussions concerning my issues were concluded most satisfactorily. In addition, they prepare my personal and LLC taxes every year with no 'surprises' from the IRS or NYS. Highly recommended. Anything negative reported suggests to me the client was in some way responsible or unreasonably expecting fiduciary miracles when in most cases numbers are, well numbers.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2023 by Zalmen goldman
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2023 by Sunita khemai
Have been using Feras for our taxes for a few years and he’s prompt, professional and very educated on the latest updates.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2019 by Tom
Very persistent attorney that got me to see my son every week. He was a busy man but took the time to really make the difference in my case.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
13 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I used this lawyer for criminal court and family court. For Criminal Court I was actually fairly satisfied with the results I received however my public defender was well on her way to receiving the same results that I paid $7,500 to get from Gary. As for my family court experience... I was not satisfied at all. I was told they were going to fight for me and they were very confident we would come out on top. I thought I was retaining an iron fist attorney that would fight to the end for myself and my son. Unfortunately this lawyer barely fought for me at all. With folders full of evidence against my child's other parent he still acted as if he Was Defeated from the start. He made excuses saying that he did not have enough time to prepare for trial but the truth is he did nothing. I paid over $10,000 in attorney fees between my criminal case and my family case and this law firm didn't accomplish anything more than my public defender would have.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Sep, 2014 by Kevin horgan
If you need a family lawyer. Mr Goldstein is the man you want, he know what he is doing when it comes to family law. And always keeps you inform of everything and really cares for his clients. Trust me when I say you can not do no better than Mr. Goldstein. And he is a good man all around. you wants someone you can trust when you go to court and Mr. Goldstein is the one. He backs down to no one and knows the law.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Attorney Poll was a professional right off the bat! Any time I felt overwhelmed by the case, he supported me and reminded me what was at stake and that he could win! My attorney believed in me and he went above and beyond at every juncture, including making sure he knew the case inside and out. He met my child, so that he could gain insight from the individual that was impacted the most by this case. Attorney Poll always had time for a call from me. I know he has a huge caseload, but every time we spoke, I felt like I was his only client. In all my years. that is the true sign of a client-first practice. On top of everything I have listed, Attorney Poll never treated us as a case or file number, or a dollar amount. He even went so far as to see if our fees could be reduced in any way, since I am a single father doing all I can for my child. And thanks to Erno Poll, I get to care for my child each and every day and I am forever grateful. I cannot thank Erno Poll enough, along with everyone else at the Greenwald Law Practice. Using his more than 35 years of practicing law, Attorney Poll was always happy to explain any and all court procedures for how these types of cases go. It is not all that frequent a father wins custody of a child when the mother also wants custody. But, we were in the right; my attorney knew it, and with his excellent skills, he ensured the judge knew it as well. I would recommend Attorney Poll to all those looking for a true professional that genuinely cares.Because of all Attorney Poll's hard work and dedication, I, the child's father, was able to walk out of court with sole custody of my child with visitation at OUR discretion. I literally couldn't have been successful like this without Attorney Poll and I'm so grateful for his service.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
This supposed attorney and his secretary are without any doubt the worst representatives for anyone's case. I first went to this law firm to get a downward modification for child support. I was in a very bad accident and was unable to work as I had surgery and was needing a second in the very near future. He FAILED to give my medical records to the courts and opposing attorney to get the much needed modification. Long story short he did not. I was constantly getting increases in my bill from his office and his secretary was a nasty and rude woman. My case was dismissed and child support was literally spiraling out of control. I made an objection to the dismissal went to court only to find I was incarcerated to the Orsnge County Jail where as I spent 3 months and actually had my more serious spinal surgery while incarcerated. I must note I now have custody of my child and now my ex pays me. RUN do not walk from this attorney. He robbed me not only of money, but more importantly my time with my son and I'm sure no one would ever want to experience the nightmare of having to have major surgery handcuffed and shackled to a bed and surgery table because of your attorneys lack of DOING HIS JOB WHICH HE GOT PAID FOR.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
We are using him in a family matter. He mixed up a great deal of the information we gave him during our initial meeting, so we contacted him by phone and were told to mark it up and send it back for corrections. He fixed the mistakes we pointed out to him. Then billed us for the phone calls, emails and time spent making the corrections of his mistakes. I complained to the firm and got the money for the corrections refunded. I felt like I should be billing them for the time I had to spend making the corrections and the time I spent straightening out the billing. Now we're halfway done with our process and it seems like he's making a great effort to recoup the refunded money by calling us in for unnecessary meetings and getting on the phone with me to discuss things that his secretary could/should have easily handled on her own. The staff at this firm definitely does not go out of their way to be friendly. I'll be very glad when this is over so I can be done with this office.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
13 Aug, 2022 by Peggy
I met Joanna at a domestic violence meeting, in 2000. Joanna arrived there with two of her late father’s secretaries, to give a (coached) speech to victims of domestic violence. Joanna was well- rehearsed & she convinced a few of us to hire her, to represent us , in our respective court cases. It didn’t take long for me to see her fraudulent facade. Joanna could not handle herself, in a courtroom. Each court appearance, she brought along 2-3 seasoned attorneys, from her late father’s law firm, to do all the talking for her. Joanna LIED to me about her skills, experience and qualifications. Joanna also failed to disclose that she was FIRED from her law school internship after 7 months, due to incompetence. This was stated to me by two different attorneys who, at the time, were employed by Joanna’s father, the Late Gary Greenwald. I was also informed by both of these attorneys, that Joanna’s internship required a two year commitment. I am confident that Joanna’s late fathers, pulled some strings and BOUGHT Joanna her law degree! Joanna never worked for ANYONE, other than her late father, presumably, because no one else would hire her. I FIRED Joanna after a few months, because she did not do any actual work on my case, though she was always diligent in finding means to pad the bill. After being repeatedly told by me not to do so, she would continuously call my home, when she knew I was unavailable, leave frivolous messages on my answering machine, then bill me for the calls. Joanna would bill me for HOURS and HOURS of reading time, both from my file and from doing RESEARCH, meanwhile, I saw NO RESULTS, in my case. I threatened Joanna’s late father, Gary Greenwald, with contacting the BAR ASSOCIATION, if the bill padding didn’t stop, my legal bill DRASTICALLY REDUCED & Joanna being REMOVED from my case. Gary Greenwald complied with my demands. Joanna continued to be a thorn in my side, even after Joanna’s father assigned a new attorney to my case. Joanna was caught several times, hanging around outside the attorney’s office, attempting to eavesdrop on case discussions. Joanna was very fortunate, being able to live her entire life of of other people’s earnings. Joanna never earned an honest dime, in her life and neither did her father. Her learned thievery should not be tolerated. Joanna is NOT an honest person. I HIGHLY recommend AVOIDING HER!!!
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