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Shari Lee Sugarman, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Deer Park, NY with 260 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.
47,72
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
4.7
15 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
245 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Jan, 2025 by Ameera persaud
Seni won my husbands car accident case and got him a huge settlement at trial. His leg was fractured and he had surgery but seni made sure we won!!!! Thank you
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star star star star star
16 Jan, 2025 by Timothy gordon
Was apprehensive about the process, but the team made process fairly simple to navigate and more comfortable. Definitely would recommend!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Yahimer guzman
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Michael A. Kinzer, experienced Bankruptcy, Debt Settlement attorney in Deer Park, NY with 125 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.
44,43
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
10 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
115 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Oct, 2024 by Monique
Had the pleasure of working with SG Legal Services! I expressed to Shawn that I never had to serve papers to anyone so I was a little uncertain of how the process went, but he was very thorough and very responsive. The court documents were served as soon as possible, I made the request on a Tuesday and the attempts started the very next day. Definitely would recommend to anyone who is in need of services!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Mk
Could not recommend SG more! Dealing with an ex who makes things impossible, I ended up needing him served last minute and within a small time frame and Shawn really came through and got it done perfectly. His wife has also been extremely helpful on the back end leading up to it. Can't thank them enough!
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star star star star star
09 Oct, 2024 by Jaclyn bailey
Great customer service! Working with Shawn eased my anxiety. Fast reliable service.
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Andrew John Colascione, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Deer Park, NY with 4 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.
39,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Jan, 2016 by Zachary
Mr. Colascione was excellent in all aspects of my case. At the first meeting after being hired, he was able to calm my fears, and really make me feel a lot better about my upcoming case. During the time between hiring and the court date, Andrew was extremely thorough and very professional in everything he did and told me. He also updated me on the status of everything, ranging from different plea deals to just checking in to make sure I was doing all right. If I ever needed a lawyer again, he would be my first and only call. Its not always the best situations that you may need a lawyer for, but Mr. Colascione really helped make my potentially bad situation, into something much more manageable and less frightening. I originally started with a misdemeanor, and through Andrew's hard work, it was knocked down to community service and a violation. I would 100% recommend Mr. Colascione to a friend.
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06 Dec, 2015 by Marco
This was my first run-in with the law, and I was not going to take my chances with an attorney I did not trust. After meeting with Andrew and discussing how he would handle the case, I felt more than informed. He not only covered all of the bases, but was sure to let me know every possible outcome of the proceedings. From contacting the DA to finding out how my case would be recepted by the court, Andrew was completely on top of the situation. Usually people see his/her lawyer calling and groan; that was not the case for me, as I knew that Andrew was going above and beyond to keep me as involved in the proceedings as he could. I had many questions throughout the case, and Andrew answered all of them with facts and examples to back them up. It was like I was working with a friend rather than with someone who was just focused on the payout. When my court date came, I went in with confidence knowing that I was well informed on how the day would go. Needless to say, Andrew won my case and cleared me from something minor that could have potentially ruined my future.
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15 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Andrew is a very thorough lawyer. From the beginning of our professional relationship, he was attentive and kept me well informed in all matters. He made himself available and accommodated my busy schedule. Andrew is not only my lawyer, but a trusted adviser who kept me from making a very poor decision. He's meticulous and has an incredibly strong work ethic. Lucky and pleased to be his client.
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Richard Mark Vladimir, experienced Criminal Defense, Personal Injury attorney in Deer Park, NY with 4 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.
39,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
21 Dec, 2022 by Regina
Had Mr Vladimir to help me with my case on car injury was really a bless because he works hard to get the best results. I highly recommend them Very professional, kindness and helpful.
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star star star star star
06 Jan, 2017 by Bonnie
I've known Richard for many years and have found him to be an extremely professional, highly qualified lawyer with excellent experience in personal injury, real estate and criminal defense matters. Richard is a kind and honest person who cares very much for his clients. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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05 May, 2015 by Mr. jan
I've done business with this law firm for over 15 years. They're very professional and knowledgeable of the law. I strongly recommend them for your legal representation.
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Peter Laurence Vladimir, experienced Personal Injury, Real Estate attorney in Deer Park, NY with 4 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.
39,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
13 May, 2022 by Pamela
I would recommend him to anyone that need a good lawyer, because he compassionate and have good qualification about hisself .
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15 May, 2015 by Barbara
Peter Vladimir is a very personable lawyer. He is patient and very dedicated to your case. Whenever i had a question about my case...he made time for me to answer them. If ididnt understand.. he broke it down. I appreciate all he has done for me. When all the lawyers agreed to what he proposed....I knew I had the right lawyer!!!! If you want restitution....call Peter Vladimir! Thank You very much for winning my case!
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06 May, 2015 by Anna
I had the previlage of being Mr. Peter Vladimir client due to an automobile accident. I felt I was always in good hands. He knows his laws and makes you feel very Comfortable, I would recommend him very highly
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Jacob R. Fleitman, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Deer Park, NY with 3 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.
39,09
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2017 by Yulian shtern
Having known Jacob Fleitman for many years and working with him on many matters, I can easily say that he is one of the most professional and competent attorneys that I have ever met. Jake is passionate, top-tier, prepared and honest. I would trust and hire Jake if I ever had a personal legal matter within his scope of practice. His demeanor is very compassionate, and the legal results he achieves for his clients speak for themselves.
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22 Dec, 2016 by Herman
Herman Ortiz, I'm a Certified Public Accountant and I have worked with Mr. Fleitman on numerous occasions and hold his professionalism and work ethic in the highest regard. I can say I trust Mr. Fleitman enough to recommend him to my own family, including my grandmother who used Mr. Fleitman to purchase a home. She was very appreciative of his guidance and representation. Mr. Fleitman truly cares about his clients and it shows! I highly recommend his services.
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02 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Jacob took my case on in the very late stages of the game, and handled everything with professionalism and Courteousness. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who genuinely cares about his clients.
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Vincent Salvatore Alaimo, experienced Real Estate attorney in Deer Park, NY with 200 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.
36,76
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
2.0
5 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
195 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Dec, 2024 by Curtisloring brown
Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Nov, 2024 by Anna hannan
Vladimir and associates represented my brother as a defendant in a case They were very patient and very professional and argued the case to a favorable outcome. I’m very satisfied with their services and would recommend them to anyone.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Dr. nana akaeze
We recently worked with Law Firm of Kyce Siddiqi, P.C. I can confidently say that Law Firm of Kyce Siddiqi, P.C. is one of the best lawyer I've encountered in recent times and would highly recommend him to anyone needing expert support.
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Jerome Spinner, experienced  attorney in Deer Park, NY with 2 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.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Feb, 2021 by Richard rutherford
Jay is an incredible accountant and attorney. Blessed to know him.
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28 Aug, 2017 by Todd jung
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Jay L. Dollinger, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Deer Park, NY with 2 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.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Feb, 2021 by Richard rutherford
Jay is an incredible accountant and attorney. Blessed to know him.
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28 Aug, 2017 by Todd jung
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Steven Andrew Morse, experienced Business attorney in Deer Park, NY with 2 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.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Feb, 2021 by Richard rutherford
Jay is an incredible accountant and attorney. Blessed to know him.
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28 Aug, 2017 by Todd jung
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Robert J Hayden, experienced Litigation attorney in Deer Park, NY with 12 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.
34,31
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
12 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Nov, 2023 by John “johnnykat” matuza
Joanne Schlenk McAvey and her crew worked tirelessly with me get Medicaid for my Aunt. It took 3 months of sleuthing and many phone calls to accomplish the job. I highly recommend Joanne.
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star star star star star
05 Apr, 2023 by Claire mckeon
I began my relationship with Ms. McAvey as an Executor for a family members' estate. I was very impressed with her knowledge and the care she gave to the family. I retained her services to plan my own estate. I am grateful for the piece of mind. My family will not meet with any complications when the time comes.
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star star star star star
26 Jul, 2022 by Kim mastrandrea
From the moment my sibling, my mother and I sat down with Joanne to update mom's will and trust she has been there for us. Joanne explained (patiently thank god), every step of the way how to proceed, especially when it came time to apply for community medicaid applications, veteran applications etc. and helped so much with all the paperwork which could prove, understandably so, overwhelming. Even now going through all the estate paperwork Joanne has been in constant communication with me as she always has, with every step and every filing she does. Her whole team is aces!! I have recommended her to coworkers and friends. I, myself will be sitting down with her to do my own will. You cannot find someone who is more caring and looking out for her clients than Joanne!
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Joanne Schlenk McAvey, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Deer Park, NY with 16 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.
29,27
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
3.0
4 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
12 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Nov, 2023 by John “johnnykat” matuza
Joanne Schlenk McAvey and her crew worked tirelessly with me get Medicaid for my Aunt. It took 3 months of sleuthing and many phone calls to accomplish the job. I highly recommend Joanne.
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star star star star star
05 Apr, 2023 by Claire mckeon
I began my relationship with Ms. McAvey as an Executor for a family members' estate. I was very impressed with her knowledge and the care she gave to the family. I retained her services to plan my own estate. I am grateful for the piece of mind. My family will not meet with any complications when the time comes.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2022 by Kim mastrandrea
From the moment my sibling, my mother and I sat down with Joanne to update mom's will and trust she has been there for us. Joanne explained (patiently thank god), every step of the way how to proceed, especially when it came time to apply for community medicaid applications, veteran applications etc. and helped so much with all the paperwork which could prove, understandably so, overwhelming. Even now going through all the estate paperwork Joanne has been in constant communication with me as she always has, with every step and every filing she does. Her whole team is aces!! I have recommended her to coworkers and friends. I, myself will be sitting down with her to do my own will. You cannot find someone who is more caring and looking out for her clients than Joanne!
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Mark A. Musachio, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Deer Park, NY with 15 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.
28,65
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
2.3
3 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
12 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Nov, 2023 by John “johnnykat” matuza
Joanne Schlenk McAvey and her crew worked tirelessly with me get Medicaid for my Aunt. It took 3 months of sleuthing and many phone calls to accomplish the job. I highly recommend Joanne.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Apr, 2023 by Claire mckeon
I began my relationship with Ms. McAvey as an Executor for a family members' estate. I was very impressed with her knowledge and the care she gave to the family. I retained her services to plan my own estate. I am grateful for the piece of mind. My family will not meet with any complications when the time comes.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2022 by Kim mastrandrea
From the moment my sibling, my mother and I sat down with Joanne to update mom's will and trust she has been there for us. Joanne explained (patiently thank god), every step of the way how to proceed, especially when it came time to apply for community medicaid applications, veteran applications etc. and helped so much with all the paperwork which could prove, understandably so, overwhelming. Even now going through all the estate paperwork Joanne has been in constant communication with me as she always has, with every step and every filing she does. Her whole team is aces!! I have recommended her to coworkers and friends. I, myself will be sitting down with her to do my own will. You cannot find someone who is more caring and looking out for her clients than Joanne!
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Bryan P. Kujawski, experienced Civil Rights attorney in Deer Park, NY with 8 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.
26,78
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
8 Reviews
star star star star star
15 May, 2021 by Jinny m.
If you want attorneys that know the actual law, don’t go to them. If you want attorneys that are aggressive and you feel confident that they will really fight for you, don’t go to them. If you want attorneys that call you with updates, instead of you having the need to contact them first, don’t go to them. Mark lied and stated that he has had previous interactions with my organization; however, it was evident that they had a lack of knowledge of the procedures needed. He also stated numerous times on the phone he’d help me with a restraining order but when I asked him to assist, he went ghost on me. They gave me zero guidance. I put too much trust into them and I know I could have gotten a lot more from a case with a lot of evidence and leadership mismanagement but I had zero confidence and felt they probably would have messed things up in court so I settled with a mediation. Furthermore, , to think I have to pay them 33% of a weak outcome, is blatant torture. Jennifer was ultra weak in the mediation and presented little evidence and actually stated wrong information. I am so sorry I didn’t use somebody else. Don’t use them.
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27 Jan, 2021 by John donzelli
They are extremely professional and fully back their clients with respect and dignity. I recommend them completely. John D.
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28 Jul, 2019 by Victoria rosario
They are very good hard working Lawyers
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Sheela M. Papol, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Deer Park, NY with 6 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.
25,74
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
4.3
6 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2024 by Mj
This practice has been a pleasure to work with, Sheela is an amazing professional, who treated us with the utmost courtesy ad respect. Very knowable about the current laws and practices of the legal system. highly recommend them!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Frank
I have used Sheela and her office for many legal items. She handled my divorce, and 3 home closings for me, along with reviewing many of my mortgage refinancings (of which I was not charged). I was quoted a fee, and that was all I was charged. I read one review that disputes this. As I stated earlier, I actually got some pro bono review of a refinancing.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Teresa
What I thought would be a stressful process, Sheela made it easy. Very professional and on top of her game. Thank you so much.
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Patricia Ann O'Brien, experienced Real Estate attorney in Deer Park, 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.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
15 May, 2012 by Anonymous
I USED PAT O'BRIEN FOR MY DIVORCE. SHE WAS KIND AND COMPASSIONATE, INTRESTED IN THE WELFARE OF MY CHILDREN, AND WORKED VERY HARD TO MAKE SURE I GOT A GOOD SETTLEMENT.
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14 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Pat O'Brien represented me in the closing of my home. Right from the beginning I had trouble getting in touch with her. She's not in the office much and her voice mail is alway full so you can't even leave a message. This was very frustrating and I found myself relying on the buyer's real estate agent to keep me informed of everything from the progress of the buyer's obtaining a mortgage to the date set for our closing. In the end I was more than a little suprised at her fee. It was between $400 to $500 over the average fee for a closing.
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Jacob R. Fleitman, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Deer Park, 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
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Andrew Anthony Arcuri, experienced Civil Rights, Insurance attorney in Deer Park, 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
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Robert David Frankfort, experienced Insurance, Medical Malpractice attorney in Deer Park, 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
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Wayne Michael Margolis, experienced Litigation attorney in Deer Park, 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
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Scott Andrew Koltun, experienced Business, Car Accident attorney in Deer Park, 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
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Charles Joseph Fisher, experienced Credit Repair, Real Estate attorney in Deer Park, 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
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Carrie D. Feldman, experienced  attorney in Deer Park, 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Edward Steven Raskin, experienced  attorney in Deer Park, 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Mary Sheila Malerba, experienced  attorney in Deer Park, 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Salvatore Joseph Lupo, experienced  attorney in Deer Park, 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Thomas Allan Smyth, experienced  attorney in Deer Park, 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Prodromos A. Tsenesidis, experienced  attorney in Deer Park, 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Peter Richard Barbieri Jr., experienced  attorney in Deer Park, 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Nima Desai, experienced  attorney in Deer Park, 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
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