Filter by

Michael Anthony Donlon, experienced Car Accident, Personal Injury attorney in Corning, NY with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Dec, 2013 by Sienna
Michael is a hard-working conscientiuos lawyer that truly listens to his client and their needs/concerns and then delivers with excellent results. The incident that brought me into this office was tramatic in the few minutes that it occurred and also impacted ongoing aspects of my personal and professional life and Michael brought this to light and I am very happy with the end product.
Read more Avvo
See more
George John Welch, experienced  attorney in Corning, NY with 16 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,02
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
16 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Jun, 2023 by Milo tlaiji
Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2023 by Sue simard
When my son was killed at work by a negligent company we hired Martin, Harding & Mazzotti to seek justice for our son. It was the darkest time of my life but the lawyers here made my experience easy they were compassionate and worked very hard on our case.I couldn't have been more please with them.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2023 by Paul
I was represented by Mr. Benjamin Barry after I suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car accident. It would be an understatement to say he changed my life for the better. Do to my condition I was forced to put all my trust into Mr. Barry's hands, and I'm grateful I chose him. I was never once uncomfortable with the situation do to his strong presence and extensive knowledge. My wife said she hadn't seen me smile for months until you settled our case! Thank you, from My family and I.
Read more Google Maps
See more
George J. Welch Jr, experienced  attorney in Corning, NY with 16 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,02
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
16 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Jun, 2023 by Milo tlaiji
Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2023 by Sue simard
When my son was killed at work by a negligent company we hired Martin, Harding & Mazzotti to seek justice for our son. It was the darkest time of my life but the lawyers here made my experience easy they were compassionate and worked very hard on our case.I couldn't have been more please with them.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2023 by Paul
I was represented by Mr. Benjamin Barry after I suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car accident. It would be an understatement to say he changed my life for the better. Do to my condition I was forced to put all my trust into Mr. Barry's hands, and I'm grateful I chose him. I was never once uncomfortable with the situation do to his strong presence and extensive knowledge. My wife said she hadn't seen me smile for months until you settled our case! Thank you, from My family and I.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Colleen G. Zink, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Corning, NY with 16 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,02
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
16 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Jun, 2023 by Milo tlaiji
Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2023 by Sue simard
When my son was killed at work by a negligent company we hired Martin, Harding & Mazzotti to seek justice for our son. It was the darkest time of my life but the lawyers here made my experience easy they were compassionate and worked very hard on our case.I couldn't have been more please with them.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2023 by Paul
I was represented by Mr. Benjamin Barry after I suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car accident. It would be an understatement to say he changed my life for the better. Do to my condition I was forced to put all my trust into Mr. Barry's hands, and I'm grateful I chose him. I was never once uncomfortable with the situation do to his strong presence and extensive knowledge. My wife said she hadn't seen me smile for months until you settled our case! Thank you, from My family and I.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Michael Joseph Martino, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Corning, NY with 45 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,09
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.5
44 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Aug, 2024 by Kate
Mike has helped my family with estate planning and wills. He has been fair professional and efficient. Highly recommend
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 May, 2024 by Bob carlyle
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Joe pane
Mike Martino and Angie Webster helped me with my mothers estate and all I can say is they were great. They answered all of my concerns and questions. They helped me through a very difficult time and I am very appreciative.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Anna Christina Czarples, experienced Personal Injury attorney in Corning, NY with 8 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,39
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
4.5
8 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Mar, 2018 by Coral
Jake and Anna were honest, hard-working and dedicated. They respected our input and work diligently for months to help us. You will not find a harder working firm. Anna has been recognized as a "Top 10 Under 40" Personal Injury Attorney by the by the National Academy of Personal Injury Attorneys. She is competitive and hates to lose - exactly what we were looking for in an attorney.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Jun, 2017 by Alix
Anna was absolutely excellent! She is very kind and genuine one on one but when it came down to business she was very no nonsense and stern which made me feel so confident for my case. She always answered my emails in a very timely manner, and was always willing to be flexible in our meeting times. If I was ever in a situation again I would definitely come back to Anna!!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I was injured in a motorcycle accident. Attorney Czarples was actually the second lawyer to handle my case since the first one that I had was not working out for me. She explained things in simple terms that I could understand. She also told me the truth about my claim and didn't blow smoke up my you-know-where like the other attorney I had before her did.
Read more Avvo
See more
Patrick James Roth, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Corning, NY with 22 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,19
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
22 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2024 by Jesse earley
Great lawyer always done good for me have no complaints at all he fights and always got me good deals highly recommend Chris Tunney for a lawyer
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Feb, 2024 by David morsch
Great representation
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Dec, 2023 by Tony marco
Not sure of all the details but I do know I'm a bit disappointed I called several times with a time sensitive case left my number and even emailed and 48 hours went by and not a return call. I know he very well might have been busy but when he got the message if this being a time sensitive case I would have thought he would have made more of a effort to call me back or atheist email.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Ryan John Snyder, experienced  attorney in Corning, NY with 44 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,81
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
44 Reviews
star star star star star
20 May, 2024 by Bob carlyle
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Joe pane
Mike Martino and Angie Webster helped me with my mothers estate and all I can say is they were great. They answered all of my concerns and questions. They helped me through a very difficult time and I am very appreciative.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Feb, 2024 by Nancy attard
A great law firm, helping us settle my Dad's estate.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Gabriel Vincent Rossettie, experienced Litigation attorney in Corning, NY with 44 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,81
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
44 Reviews
star star star star star
20 May, 2024 by Bob carlyle
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Joe pane
Mike Martino and Angie Webster helped me with my mothers estate and all I can say is they were great. They answered all of my concerns and questions. They helped me through a very difficult time and I am very appreciative.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Feb, 2024 by Nancy attard
A great law firm, helping us settle my Dad's estate.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Stephen V. Rossettie, experienced Personal Injury, Real Estate attorney in Corning, NY with 44 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,81
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
44 Reviews
star star star star star
20 May, 2024 by Bob carlyle
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Joe pane
Mike Martino and Angie Webster helped me with my mothers estate and all I can say is they were great. They answered all of my concerns and questions. They helped me through a very difficult time and I am very appreciative.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Feb, 2024 by Nancy attard
A great law firm, helping us settle my Dad's estate.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Richard Paul Rossettie, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Corning, NY with 44 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,81
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
44 Reviews
star star star star star
20 May, 2024 by Bob carlyle
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Joe pane
Mike Martino and Angie Webster helped me with my mothers estate and all I can say is they were great. They answered all of my concerns and questions. They helped me through a very difficult time and I am very appreciative.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Feb, 2024 by Nancy attard
A great law firm, helping us settle my Dad's estate.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Joseph Brooks Rogers, experienced  attorney in Corning, NY with 44 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,81
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
44 Reviews
star star star star star
20 May, 2024 by Bob carlyle
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Joe pane
Mike Martino and Angie Webster helped me with my mothers estate and all I can say is they were great. They answered all of my concerns and questions. They helped me through a very difficult time and I am very appreciative.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Feb, 2024 by Nancy attard
A great law firm, helping us settle my Dad's estate.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Christopher Matthew Tunney, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Corning, NY with 4 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,93
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Oct, 2021 by Joshua
If you have any kind of trial you'd be better off throwing your money away. Very little prep work, very meek in litigation, and puts up little to no fight. According to multiple other attorneys he failed to inform me of a very common law practice and actually suggested the bribe the other attorneys offered for me to drop the case.... this man took money and refused to even return a phone call after he lost the most important moment of my life!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 May, 2021 by Tyler
spoke with him about a year regarding a speeding ticket, he said he will take care of it paid him and everything and with covid going on he kept telling me the courts are closed finally a year later tells me i have court date and he will handle it ever since then i haven't heard from him
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 May, 2021 by Mario
Chris is the man! I got pulled over for doing 15 over the speed limit just entering Chemung County on my way to Horseheads while passing another driver on I86 and the officer cited me for 10. It was Good Friday that day and this wasn’t the best Friday for me to get pulled over lol. I am a PA (out of state) driver so even though the points wouldn’t affect my PA driving record, my auto insurance would have spike if I would have plead guilty to the ticket. Plus I will be moving to New York State shortly so I had to take care of this somehow. I talked with Chris Tunney who assured me that he would able to talk the ADA into reducing the points. And he did just that. In New York state, 10 over the speed limit is 3 points. Chris got my speeding ticket reduced from 3 points to 0 points and a non moving violation. He came through for me like he said he would. If you ever get pulled over, Chris is the man to talk to.
Read more Avvo
See more
Heather Lanza, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Corning, NY with 5 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,47
star star star star star
3.4/5
Google Maps
3.4
5 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Nov, 2023 by Scott andrews
I went to trial with Mr. Baxter and he did a great job ! We won in the end on appeal… he fights for what is right!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Aug, 2023 by John galt
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2021 by Charles peters
This attorney should be disbarred..today this man spoke of my history to a judge and district attorney and he's not even my attorney.but he failed to mention that he helped to create that history. We have a battle as it is in the courtroom so if you want an even bigger battle hire this man. Because with him as your criminal defense attorney you stand alone. We as his clients are nothing more than a bargaining chip for his personal gain. So I say as a previous client of his be careful do your homework ask aroundI I am positive that you will discover you don't want to hire him. He cares nothing for your freedom or your reputation please be careful
Read more Google Maps
See more
Daniel Pratt Gerwig, experienced  attorney in Corning, NY with 13 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
14,57
star star star star star
3.2/5
Google Maps
3.2
13 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Oct, 2023 by Debra myers
Mr. Gerwig is a very personable lawyer. Pays attention to details.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Jun, 2022 by Mohamed samia
Google Maps
star star star star star
01 Apr, 2022 by Magdy ahmad
Mr. Moia is a very disappointing and unprofessional with his client Hired for family and Supreme Court , he will say to you something then goes in front of the judge and say in contrast with what he just told you , Almost not responding to his clients , if you keep asking him basic questions about your case , he does not respond at all And if he does , he unprofessionally advise his client to get a counselling and therapy although the client is very professional Once you paid the retainer in full and in front , he does not know you as a client , goes totally unprepaid for the case .
Read more Google Maps
See more
Thomas W. Reed II, experienced  attorney in Corning, NY with 4 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
9,10
star star star star star
2.0/5
Google Maps
2.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Jun, 2018 by Lynda plain
They have a $55 debt on credit report, that was paid at time of service, that they won't remove even though I have the receipt showing paid! I think they may be one of those scam debt collectors trying to get people to pay twice. Disgusting.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Sep, 2017 by Samantha stafursky
I honestly have no idea who to even get a hold of to take my debt a way but when I call nobody answers I haven't been able to get in touch with anyone in over 4 years and when I do the person is not helpful what so ever.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2016 by Tyrrell edwards
Just called them to payoff a old bill very nice emailed me a confirmation, and mailed out a letter, Thanks for your help
Read more Google Maps
See more
Anna Czarples, experienced Business, Lawsuit / Dispute attorney in Corning, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Marty Jonathan Anderson, experienced  attorney in Corning, NY with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,59
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2024 by Cody
Absolutely rude attempted to force me to take a plea deal not once spoke to me until the day of court and I have a pile of extremely rude messages. . no way to treat a client... Maybe it's because I can't afford an attorney nys .justice system guilty until you spend enough to be innocent
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Mt friend died, and I was to write about his lawyer. My late friend told his attorney to work with me on his case that started pretty simple and turned out to be a mess. If I could have fired his attorney I without really upsetting the judge I would have, but every other attorney I talked to about it said it would be risky due to the judge in my case and how much time had passed so I decided not to. The attorney I hired was recommended by many other lawyers I talked to and had high reviews all over the place. I learned he is just piggybacking off his family's OLD name and is not who he says he is. I want to make sure others know what this attorney does so they are not fooled like I was and for no other reason. I will also be filing complaints with all bar associations in my state and local area.
Read more Avvo
See more
Steven Maio, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Corning, NY with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,59
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Maio I knew about his history after he was spppointed for my case MrMaio is in responsive to essential issues for his client Duch as paper work filing t. Jydge said to him , I think we can do better Mr. Maio . He comes yo the court completely unorepaid. Never tell his client what is going on even the prepared orders which has never been informed to his client Giving the client an appointment , he is not there in the office neither he has some one else answer his call For a single filing for modification of support which should be ready six months before ended up that his client is paying support far by more than his monthly incom Take a big retainer cash in front and does not do anything for his client , does not want yo recuse himself , refund the retainer or give a copy of the client file I am not recommending him at all specially for the poor attorney who will get nothing !!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2019 by Scott
He was hired for a criminal matter, failed to contact Investigator, he was supposed to file motions and when we had to be in court for motion hearing, I receive a call from his secretary 10 minutes after the hearing was supposed to start that he was ill. Found out a week later, he never prepared a motion. I informed his secretary he was fired and 7 hours after firing him he submitts his 2 month past due motion, to say that he did file a motion. He never returns calls, does not investigate any case law. DO NOT HIRE!!! HE TOOK OVER $6,000 from me
Read more Avvo
See more
John Paul McGroarty, experienced Intellectual Property attorney in Corning, NY with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Nov, 2007 by Anonymous
I felt completely ripped off with the work of Mr. McGroarty. The only thing he did to move my case along was to file the initial papers. He was never prepared and did not know what he was doing. He seemed to lack in knowledge when I questioned him about our stategy and why things were not moving along. He then had the nerve to charge me a huge amount of money for his time and poor service. Mr. McGroarty hardly ever communicated with me as he really had nothing to report. Mr. McGroarty should find another line of work--it's obvious Law is not his passion!
Read more Avvo
See more
Jacob Welch, experienced  attorney in Corning, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Charles Andersen, experienced  attorney in Corning, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Michael A. Donlon, experienced Business, Medical Malpractice attorney in Corning, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Jacob P. Welch, experienced Personal Injury attorney in Corning, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Thomas Cocklin Czarples, experienced Personal Injury attorney in Corning, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Terrence Jay Baxter, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Corning, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Nicole T Amsler, experienced Car Accident, Personal Injury attorney in Corning, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Amy Lillian Vichinsky, experienced  attorney in Corning, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Michael Allen Hood, experienced  attorney in Corning, NY with  reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0/5
See more
Adam Charles Arnold, experienced  attorney in Corning, NY with  reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0/5
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