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08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa lance
08 Jul, 2024 by Bryon
Fantastic people, if you need to give your spouse the boot, this is the firm you want fighting for you
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08 Jul, 2024 by B b (beeski marciano)
08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa lance
08 Jul, 2024 by Bryon
Fantastic people, if you need to give your spouse the boot, this is the firm you want fighting for you
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by B b (beeski marciano)
08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa lance
08 Jul, 2024 by Bryon
Fantastic people, if you need to give your spouse the boot, this is the firm you want fighting for you
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by B b (beeski marciano)
08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa lance
08 Jul, 2024 by Bryon
Fantastic people, if you need to give your spouse the boot, this is the firm you want fighting for you
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by B b (beeski marciano)
08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa lance
08 Jul, 2024 by Bryon
Fantastic people, if you need to give your spouse the boot, this is the firm you want fighting for you
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by B b (beeski marciano)
08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa lance
08 Jul, 2024 by Bryon
Fantastic people, if you need to give your spouse the boot, this is the firm you want fighting for you
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by B b (beeski marciano)
08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa lance
08 Jul, 2024 by Bryon
Fantastic people, if you need to give your spouse the boot, this is the firm you want fighting for you
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by B b (beeski marciano)
08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa lance
08 Jul, 2024 by Bryon
Fantastic people, if you need to give your spouse the boot, this is the firm you want fighting for you
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by B b (beeski marciano)
08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa lance
08 Jul, 2024 by Bryon
Fantastic people, if you need to give your spouse the boot, this is the firm you want fighting for you
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by B b (beeski marciano)
08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa lance
08 Jul, 2024 by Bryon
Fantastic people, if you need to give your spouse the boot, this is the firm you want fighting for you
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by B b (beeski marciano)
08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa lance
08 Jul, 2024 by Bryon
Fantastic people, if you need to give your spouse the boot, this is the firm you want fighting for you
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by B b (beeski marciano)
08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa lance
08 Jul, 2024 by Bryon
Fantastic people, if you need to give your spouse the boot, this is the firm you want fighting for you
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by B b (beeski marciano)
30 Apr, 2024 by Robert remali
This firm means so much to my family. The attorneys were really sharp and worked very hard. It's true, not every hero wears a cape, sometimes they wear suits.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Amie p
Attorney Nicholas DiCello and the entire law firm have done an outstanding job representing me. They not only were hard working, very responsive and caring, they listened and always treated me with the utmost respect and empathy, as though I were family.
I cannot say enough about this group of people and the kindness they've shown to me these last 2 years and will never forget my experience with them.
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10 Apr, 2023 by Victoria hathaway
I am very pleased with the Spangenberg Shibley & Liber law firm!! They were very professional and available whenever I had questions!! They went above and beyond! I highly recommend them!
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12 Oct, 2024 by Eric jones
Easy good service, and great people! Thank you for all the help!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Darrien broadnax
Being prepared with professionals at your side gives you the confidence to keep progressing in business without worries. I'm thankful to have the right team by my side. Please make sure to do the same.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Stephanie shines
Great experience, I would definitely recommend!
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01 May, 2024 by Martha figueroa
This week after making an appointment with Mr. Timken, me and my husband were stood up and then was called and told that he was sorry and it was all a misunderstanding and that he wanted me to take down the review I had posted as it would hurt his practice. I forgave him and rescheduled for Friday and took down the review. Now he text me at 12 in the morning telling me he leaving town because he lost a parent I told him I was sorry for his loss. I then asked him would we be able to reschedule he replied no because he was not coming back for a long time. I believe that he called only to get me to take down my review only to come up with a lie. Me and my husband were supposed to meet him Sunday but we could not find parking. We asked to see him the next day he agreed and then deliberately stood us up out of anger because to him we wasted his time. I am starting to believe something is very wrong with this man. I truly forgave him and he still did us wrong again. But to lie now about losing a parent to get out of something is very low and disrespectful.
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20 Jan, 2024 by Mary unk
He listens and helps resolve your issues
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01 Mar, 2023 by Michael m. roman
Eli is an awesome guy. Affordable and very patient. I was the worse client. He understood I was frustrated. I didn't understand what I had to do and he worked with me. He is very kind and informative. I even got to write off some old taxes.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Amanda shelnutt
Mary and all the staff at The Family Law Group were wonderful to work with. They were kind, polite, and professional at all times. They did a wonderful job of helping me understand each process and procedure in a clear, concise manner. Communication was wonderful. I’d highly recommend FLG!
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09 Jul, 2024 by Robert avila
I recently worked with Mary and Nicole and could not have been more pleased with my experience!
They were very thoughtful, strategic, thorough and most importantly, kept the focus on the most crucial element, which was the impact on my family members. They balanced all the factors incredibly well while providing great insight and necessary candor.
I highly recommend Mary and Nicole!!!
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11 Apr, 2024 by Daniel rotroff
It is difficult to express the extent of my gratitude for the guidance I received from Nicole. She absolutely went above and beyond in all aspects of my case. She was a consummate professional and consistently provided me with fair and honest assessments of my situation. She is a fantastic attorney and I would give her 6 stars if that was an option.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Mike manzo
I would like to take the time to share my experience with this law firm, and in particular Steve Bradley. Almost a decade ago, I caught a major drug offense case and hired another lawyer who claim "Damn right we fight". Well their lack of fight or in this case, lack of legal knowledge, ended up getting me a 12 year mandatory sentence. I appeared for a what I thought was a routine pretrial motion to suppress hearing to try to attack the arrest warrant. I had no idea that when that motion was shot down, my lawyer moved right to the sentencing. I was given everyday on the original indictment. Stunned at what just transpired, my attorney leans in and says least we got you thirty days to get your affairs in order. Fast forward to less than a week till I was set to turn myself in on the 12 years, I contacted Steve, who was recommended by a friend, about a appeal. I met with him at his office and he was upfront and honest about the fact I've had no grounds for an appeal. Devastated, I shrank in my chair, and was coming to grips with fact I was really about to be away from my kids and loved ones for a decade plus. Then he told me that there was an angle he had been waiting to use, and the right client and case to execute it on. He proceeded to tell me that if I had the money, he would try to get my plea withdrawn, and take it back to trial. He gave me a pricier quote then my last attorney. So I asked him since 10 thousand dollars got me 12 years, what will said amount get me. He said that he could knock my sentence in half or if all goes well, maybe even probation. I immediately hired him. Long story short, this man was able to get the prosecutor to drop the mandatory 11 years, which comes with a major felony 1 drug offense. That gave us the opportunity to negotiate a plea bargain for half of my original sentence or still take it to trail where he could guarantee one of two outcomes. Either serve the entire sentence or walk away with a F5 and be placed on probation. I never expected a walk because I was guilty of committing a crime, but not enough to deserve all that time. So I accepted the deal and served my sentence and am now off parole. I want to personally thank you for saving my life and giving me a chance to be a father to my boys. Very refreshing to know there is still honest and hard working lawyers out there who care and actually preform the job the say they will.
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Ashley woods
10 Jul, 2024 by Shawn hart
The best attorneys in the state of Ohio. No one compares, I have used myself a couple times and also referred two friends them. All of us were extremely happy with the end result. If you find yourself in need of legal representation
Read more
05 Oct, 2024 by Mike manzo
I would like to take the time to share my experience with this law firm, and in particular Steve Bradley. Almost a decade ago, I caught a major drug offense case and hired another lawyer who claim "Damn right we fight". Well their lack of fight or in this case, lack of legal knowledge, ended up getting me a 12 year mandatory sentence. I appeared for a what I thought was a routine pretrial motion to suppress hearing to try to attack the arrest warrant. I had no idea that when that motion was shot down, my lawyer moved right to the sentencing. I was given everyday on the original indictment. Stunned at what just transpired, my attorney leans in and says least we got you thirty days to get your affairs in order. Fast forward to less than a week till I was set to turn myself in on the 12 years, I contacted Steve, who was recommended by a friend, about a appeal. I met with him at his office and he was upfront and honest about the fact I've had no grounds for an appeal. Devastated, I shrank in my chair, and was coming to grips with fact I was really about to be away from my kids and loved ones for a decade plus. Then he told me that there was an angle he had been waiting to use, and the right client and case to execute it on. He proceeded to tell me that if I had the money, he would try to get my plea withdrawn, and take it back to trial. He gave me a pricier quote then my last attorney. So I asked him since 10 thousand dollars got me 12 years, what will said amount get me. He said that he could knock my sentence in half or if all goes well, maybe even probation. I immediately hired him. Long story short, this man was able to get the prosecutor to drop the mandatory 11 years, which comes with a major felony 1 drug offense. That gave us the opportunity to negotiate a plea bargain for half of my original sentence or still take it to trail where he could guarantee one of two outcomes. Either serve the entire sentence or walk away with a F5 and be placed on probation. I never expected a walk because I was guilty of committing a crime, but not enough to deserve all that time. So I accepted the deal and served my sentence and am now off parole. I want to personally thank you for saving my life and giving me a chance to be a father to my boys. Very refreshing to know there is still honest and hard working lawyers out there who care and actually preform the job the say they will.
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Ashley woods
10 Jul, 2024 by Shawn hart
The best attorneys in the state of Ohio. No one compares, I have used myself a couple times and also referred two friends them. All of us were extremely happy with the end result. If you find yourself in need of legal representation
Read more
05 Oct, 2024 by Mike manzo
I would like to take the time to share my experience with this law firm, and in particular Steve Bradley. Almost a decade ago, I caught a major drug offense case and hired another lawyer who claim "Damn right we fight". Well their lack of fight or in this case, lack of legal knowledge, ended up getting me a 12 year mandatory sentence. I appeared for a what I thought was a routine pretrial motion to suppress hearing to try to attack the arrest warrant. I had no idea that when that motion was shot down, my lawyer moved right to the sentencing. I was given everyday on the original indictment. Stunned at what just transpired, my attorney leans in and says least we got you thirty days to get your affairs in order. Fast forward to less than a week till I was set to turn myself in on the 12 years, I contacted Steve, who was recommended by a friend, about a appeal. I met with him at his office and he was upfront and honest about the fact I've had no grounds for an appeal. Devastated, I shrank in my chair, and was coming to grips with fact I was really about to be away from my kids and loved ones for a decade plus. Then he told me that there was an angle he had been waiting to use, and the right client and case to execute it on. He proceeded to tell me that if I had the money, he would try to get my plea withdrawn, and take it back to trial. He gave me a pricier quote then my last attorney. So I asked him since 10 thousand dollars got me 12 years, what will said amount get me. He said that he could knock my sentence in half or if all goes well, maybe even probation. I immediately hired him. Long story short, this man was able to get the prosecutor to drop the mandatory 11 years, which comes with a major felony 1 drug offense. That gave us the opportunity to negotiate a plea bargain for half of my original sentence or still take it to trail where he could guarantee one of two outcomes. Either serve the entire sentence or walk away with a F5 and be placed on probation. I never expected a walk because I was guilty of committing a crime, but not enough to deserve all that time. So I accepted the deal and served my sentence and am now off parole. I want to personally thank you for saving my life and giving me a chance to be a father to my boys. Very refreshing to know there is still honest and hard working lawyers out there who care and actually preform the job the say they will.
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Ashley woods
10 Jul, 2024 by Shawn hart
The best attorneys in the state of Ohio. No one compares, I have used myself a couple times and also referred two friends them. All of us were extremely happy with the end result. If you find yourself in need of legal representation
Read more
05 Oct, 2024 by Mike manzo
I would like to take the time to share my experience with this law firm, and in particular Steve Bradley. Almost a decade ago, I caught a major drug offense case and hired another lawyer who claim "Damn right we fight". Well their lack of fight or in this case, lack of legal knowledge, ended up getting me a 12 year mandatory sentence. I appeared for a what I thought was a routine pretrial motion to suppress hearing to try to attack the arrest warrant. I had no idea that when that motion was shot down, my lawyer moved right to the sentencing. I was given everyday on the original indictment. Stunned at what just transpired, my attorney leans in and says least we got you thirty days to get your affairs in order. Fast forward to less than a week till I was set to turn myself in on the 12 years, I contacted Steve, who was recommended by a friend, about a appeal. I met with him at his office and he was upfront and honest about the fact I've had no grounds for an appeal. Devastated, I shrank in my chair, and was coming to grips with fact I was really about to be away from my kids and loved ones for a decade plus. Then he told me that there was an angle he had been waiting to use, and the right client and case to execute it on. He proceeded to tell me that if I had the money, he would try to get my plea withdrawn, and take it back to trial. He gave me a pricier quote then my last attorney. So I asked him since 10 thousand dollars got me 12 years, what will said amount get me. He said that he could knock my sentence in half or if all goes well, maybe even probation. I immediately hired him. Long story short, this man was able to get the prosecutor to drop the mandatory 11 years, which comes with a major felony 1 drug offense. That gave us the opportunity to negotiate a plea bargain for half of my original sentence or still take it to trail where he could guarantee one of two outcomes. Either serve the entire sentence or walk away with a F5 and be placed on probation. I never expected a walk because I was guilty of committing a crime, but not enough to deserve all that time. So I accepted the deal and served my sentence and am now off parole. I want to personally thank you for saving my life and giving me a chance to be a father to my boys. Very refreshing to know there is still honest and hard working lawyers out there who care and actually preform the job the say they will.
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Ashley woods
10 Jul, 2024 by Shawn hart
The best attorneys in the state of Ohio. No one compares, I have used myself a couple times and also referred two friends them. All of us were extremely happy with the end result. If you find yourself in need of legal representation
Read more
05 Oct, 2024 by Mike manzo
I would like to take the time to share my experience with this law firm, and in particular Steve Bradley. Almost a decade ago, I caught a major drug offense case and hired another lawyer who claim "Damn right we fight". Well their lack of fight or in this case, lack of legal knowledge, ended up getting me a 12 year mandatory sentence. I appeared for a what I thought was a routine pretrial motion to suppress hearing to try to attack the arrest warrant. I had no idea that when that motion was shot down, my lawyer moved right to the sentencing. I was given everyday on the original indictment. Stunned at what just transpired, my attorney leans in and says least we got you thirty days to get your affairs in order. Fast forward to less than a week till I was set to turn myself in on the 12 years, I contacted Steve, who was recommended by a friend, about a appeal. I met with him at his office and he was upfront and honest about the fact I've had no grounds for an appeal. Devastated, I shrank in my chair, and was coming to grips with fact I was really about to be away from my kids and loved ones for a decade plus. Then he told me that there was an angle he had been waiting to use, and the right client and case to execute it on. He proceeded to tell me that if I had the money, he would try to get my plea withdrawn, and take it back to trial. He gave me a pricier quote then my last attorney. So I asked him since 10 thousand dollars got me 12 years, what will said amount get me. He said that he could knock my sentence in half or if all goes well, maybe even probation. I immediately hired him. Long story short, this man was able to get the prosecutor to drop the mandatory 11 years, which comes with a major felony 1 drug offense. That gave us the opportunity to negotiate a plea bargain for half of my original sentence or still take it to trail where he could guarantee one of two outcomes. Either serve the entire sentence or walk away with a F5 and be placed on probation. I never expected a walk because I was guilty of committing a crime, but not enough to deserve all that time. So I accepted the deal and served my sentence and am now off parole. I want to personally thank you for saving my life and giving me a chance to be a father to my boys. Very refreshing to know there is still honest and hard working lawyers out there who care and actually preform the job the say they will.
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Ashley woods
10 Jul, 2024 by Shawn hart
The best attorneys in the state of Ohio. No one compares, I have used myself a couple times and also referred two friends them. All of us were extremely happy with the end result. If you find yourself in need of legal representation
Read more
10 Sep, 2023 by Stone cold
Use only for evictions that’s what they mainly do and the price is good.
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03 May, 2023 by Adi adi
I had the pleasure of working with David Dvorin on a legal issue, and I couldn't be happier with his services. David is a highly skilled lawyer who truly cares about his clients and their needs. He took the time to listen to my concerns, explained the legal process in a clear and concise manner, and provided me with excellent advice and guidance. David was always available to answer my questions and address my concerns, and he kept me informed throughout the entire process. Thanks to his expertise and dedication, my issue was resolved quickly and effectively. I highly recommend David Dvorin to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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10 Dec, 2018 by David terbeek
Our property management company uses this firm for evictions and some other related litigation work. The attorneys are knowledgeable and the office staff if friendly and helpful.
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10 Sep, 2023 by Stone cold
Use only for evictions that’s what they mainly do and the price is good.
Read more
03 May, 2023 by Adi adi
I had the pleasure of working with David Dvorin on a legal issue, and I couldn't be happier with his services. David is a highly skilled lawyer who truly cares about his clients and their needs. He took the time to listen to my concerns, explained the legal process in a clear and concise manner, and provided me with excellent advice and guidance. David was always available to answer my questions and address my concerns, and he kept me informed throughout the entire process. Thanks to his expertise and dedication, my issue was resolved quickly and effectively. I highly recommend David Dvorin to anyone in need of legal assistance.
Read more
10 Dec, 2018 by David terbeek
Our property management company uses this firm for evictions and some other related litigation work. The attorneys are knowledgeable and the office staff if friendly and helpful.
Read more
22 Oct, 2024 by Brigido ramos
Estoy muy agradecido con la representacion de la abogada Vargas y su equipo de trabajo por lo mucho que me ayudaron en mi proceso de divorcio. Muy satisfecho con el resultado. Le daria mas estrellitas, pero no me dejan.
Read more
22 Oct, 2024 by Kellyed reyes
I cannot say enough about the incredible representation I received from Shaleika Vargas and their exceptional team at Vargas law. From day one, they made me feel secure and confident, knowing I had the most qualified professionals in my corner. Their thorough preparation, deep legal knowledge, and strategic approach in court were beyond impressive. What truly stood out was how they treated my case with care, always keeping me informed and fighting tirelessly for the best possible outcome. It’s rare to find a legal team that combines expertise with genuine concern for their clients, and I’m so grateful I had them on my side. I've had 3 lawyers before Mrs. Vargas, and as soon as I had a conversation with Shaleika I knew I actually was going to have a D1 attorney ready to step up to the plate. If you want peace of mind knowing you have the best law team in Cuyahoga County that can under pressure, produce solid results, look no further than Vargas Law Co
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21 Oct, 2024 by Michael tyczynski
Very professional, communicated well throughout the process, would use them again.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Brigido ramos
Estoy muy agradecido con la representacion de la abogada Vargas y su equipo de trabajo por lo mucho que me ayudaron en mi proceso de divorcio. Muy satisfecho con el resultado. Le daria mas estrellitas, pero no me dejan.
Read more
22 Oct, 2024 by Kellyed reyes
I cannot say enough about the incredible representation I received from Shaleika Vargas and their exceptional team at Vargas law. From day one, they made me feel secure and confident, knowing I had the most qualified professionals in my corner. Their thorough preparation, deep legal knowledge, and strategic approach in court were beyond impressive. What truly stood out was how they treated my case with care, always keeping me informed and fighting tirelessly for the best possible outcome. It’s rare to find a legal team that combines expertise with genuine concern for their clients, and I’m so grateful I had them on my side. I've had 3 lawyers before Mrs. Vargas, and as soon as I had a conversation with Shaleika I knew I actually was going to have a D1 attorney ready to step up to the plate. If you want peace of mind knowing you have the best law team in Cuyahoga County that can under pressure, produce solid results, look no further than Vargas Law Co
Read more
21 Oct, 2024 by Michael tyczynski
Very professional, communicated well throughout the process, would use them again.
Read more
30 Apr, 2024 by Robert remali
This firm means so much to my family. The attorneys were really sharp and worked very hard. It's true, not every hero wears a cape, sometimes they wear suits.
Read more
13 Mar, 2024 by Amie p
Attorney Nicholas DiCello and the entire law firm have done an outstanding job representing me. They not only were hard working, very responsive and caring, they listened and always treated me with the utmost respect and empathy, as though I were family.
I cannot say enough about this group of people and the kindness they've shown to me these last 2 years and will never forget my experience with them.
Read more
12 May, 2023 by Kayla “groomerlife” hanks
30 Apr, 2024 by Robert remali
This firm means so much to my family. The attorneys were really sharp and worked very hard. It's true, not every hero wears a cape, sometimes they wear suits.
Read more
13 Mar, 2024 by Amie p
Attorney Nicholas DiCello and the entire law firm have done an outstanding job representing me. They not only were hard working, very responsive and caring, they listened and always treated me with the utmost respect and empathy, as though I were family.
I cannot say enough about this group of people and the kindness they've shown to me these last 2 years and will never forget my experience with them.
Read more
12 May, 2023 by Kayla “groomerlife” hanks
30 Apr, 2024 by Robert remali
This firm means so much to my family. The attorneys were really sharp and worked very hard. It's true, not every hero wears a cape, sometimes they wear suits.
Read more
13 Mar, 2024 by Amie p
Attorney Nicholas DiCello and the entire law firm have done an outstanding job representing me. They not only were hard working, very responsive and caring, they listened and always treated me with the utmost respect and empathy, as though I were family.
I cannot say enough about this group of people and the kindness they've shown to me these last 2 years and will never forget my experience with them.
Read more
12 May, 2023 by Kayla “groomerlife” hanks
30 Apr, 2024 by Robert remali
This firm means so much to my family. The attorneys were really sharp and worked very hard. It's true, not every hero wears a cape, sometimes they wear suits.
Read more
13 Mar, 2024 by Amie p
Attorney Nicholas DiCello and the entire law firm have done an outstanding job representing me. They not only were hard working, very responsive and caring, they listened and always treated me with the utmost respect and empathy, as though I were family.
I cannot say enough about this group of people and the kindness they've shown to me these last 2 years and will never forget my experience with them.
Read more
12 May, 2023 by Kayla “groomerlife” hanks
30 Apr, 2024 by Robert remali
This firm means so much to my family. The attorneys were really sharp and worked very hard. It's true, not every hero wears a cape, sometimes they wear suits.
Read more
13 Mar, 2024 by Amie p
Attorney Nicholas DiCello and the entire law firm have done an outstanding job representing me. They not only were hard working, very responsive and caring, they listened and always treated me with the utmost respect and empathy, as though I were family.
I cannot say enough about this group of people and the kindness they've shown to me these last 2 years and will never forget my experience with them.
Read more
12 May, 2023 by Kayla “groomerlife” hanks
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Top Questions to Ask a Lawyer
When meeting with a lawyer for the first time, it's important to ask the right questions to understand their expertise and determine if they're the right fit for your legal needs. Here are some top questions to consider:
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What experience do you have with cases similar to mine?
Ensure the lawyer has relevant experience in the specific area of law pertaining to your case. -
How do you charge for your services, and what are the estimated costs?
Understand the fee structure, including hourly rates, flat fees, retainer fees, and any additional expenses. -
What potential outcomes can I expect from my case?
While no lawyer can guarantee results, they can provide an assessment of possible scenarios based on their experience. -
What is your approach to handling cases like mine?
Learn about their strategy, whether they prefer negotiation, mediation, or litigation. -
Who will be working on my case?
Find out if the lawyer will handle your case personally or delegate tasks to other attorneys or paralegals. -
How will you communicate with me throughout the process?
Establish expectations for updates, preferred communication methods, and response times. -
What is the likely timeline for resolving my case?
Get an estimate of how long the process may take from start to finish. -
Do you have references from past clients?
Testimonials or references can provide insight into the lawyer's professionalism and effectiveness. -
What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
Understanding potential challenges helps you prepare and sets realistic expectations. -
Are there alternative ways to solve my legal problem?
Discuss options like mediation, arbitration, or settlement to resolve the issue efficiently.
How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer
Before hiring a lawyer, it's crucial to verify their credibility and ensure they're qualified to handle your case:
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Verify Their License:
Check with your state's bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and in good standing. -
Experience and Specialization:
Ensure the lawyer specializes in the area of law relevant to your case. -
Disciplinary Record:
Look up any history of disciplinary actions or complaints through the state bar association. -
Client Reviews and Testimonials:
Read reviews on legal directories like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge client satisfaction. -
Professional Memberships:
Membership in professional organizations or specialty bar associations can indicate a commitment to their field. -
Awards and Recognitions:
Honors from reputable organizations reflect expertise and a positive reputation. -
Consultation Assessment:
Use the initial consultation to evaluate their communication skills, responsiveness, and willingness to address your concerns. -
Ask for References:
A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
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Relevant Documents:
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Take notes during the consultation to remember important points. -
Budget Constraints:
Be ready to discuss your budget and any financial limitations.
How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a lawyer varies widely based on several factors:
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Fee Structures:
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Hourly Rate:
Lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on experience and location. -
Flat Fee:
For routine legal services like drafting a will or handling an uncontested divorce, lawyers might offer a flat fee. -
Retainer Fee:
An upfront payment against which the lawyer bills hourly fees. -
Contingency Fee:
Common in personal injury cases; the lawyer receives a percentage (typically 25% to 40%) of any settlement or award. -
Monthly Retainer:
For ongoing services, businesses might pay a monthly fee for a set number of hours or services.
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Hourly Rate:
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Factors Affecting Cost:
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Complexity of the Case:
More complex cases require more time and resources, increasing costs. -
Lawyer's Experience:
Highly experienced lawyers may charge higher fees. -
Geographic Location:
Legal fees can vary significantly by region or city. -
Additional Expenses:
Court filing fees, expert witness fees, travel expenses, and administrative costs may be extra.
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Complexity of the Case:
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Estimating Total Costs:
Request a detailed fee agreement outlining all potential costs.
Discuss any additional expenses that may arise during the case. -
Negotiating Fees:
Some lawyers may be willing to negotiate fees or offer payment plans, especially for clients with financial constraints. -
Pro Bono Services:
For those who cannot afford legal services, some lawyers or legal aid organizations offer services at reduced rates or for free.
