Lawyers map
>2.8k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
25 Dec, 2021 by Jennifer
My boyfriend and I both used Rich years ago for criminal charges when he was working at a previous firm. We were truly blessed that we had Rich to work our cases. He fought aggressively for both of us, was always available to speak, broke everything down for us, remained honest with us whether it was good or bad and kept his word. He is such a hardworking, good man and I genuinely wouldn’t recommend anyone other than Rich! Neither of us would’ve had the outcomes we had if it weren’t for Rich. We’re so proud of him for his massive accomplishments over the past 5 years and can’t thank him enough for everything he did for us! Thanks again Rich - we wish you all the very best!!
- Jennifer & Anthony
Read more
28 Jun, 2020 by Shannon
I hired Rich Toscani to handle my fiancé’s case, who happened to have charged in two separate counties. He knew that I was paying for this on my own as my fiancé wasn’t working and was extremely sympathetic to the situation. He is ALWAYS available to speak to, unlike other attorneys and would always keep me informed. The felonies were dropped and my fiancé’s jail sentence was lowered significantly. Thank you, Rich for everything you did for us.
Read more
27 Sep, 2018 by Stefan
Mr. Toscani is very professional and knowledgeable, I highly reccomend him to all of my close ones in need of an attorney. He is always available and responsive and works diligently with concern for the matter, he fights Aggressively for the best outcome and from what I've seen everyone in the court room respects him highly especially the judge, before I hired Mr. Toscani I was destined for doom and jail time but he seriously worked a miracles for me in a short time span. Amazingly reasonably priced, always keeps me updated and arrives on time to court unlike lawyers Ive dealt with in the past, excellent at communication, he vigorously fights for the best case scenario, always honest, respectful, understanding, non judgemental and just an overall good hearted person. He even checks on me periodically to make sure my progress is going good and remind me to continue doing the right thing and stay out of trouble.
Read more
15 Jul, 2020 by Brigitte
Leslie is always there when I need help and I am very thankful for her! Thank you!
Read more
23 May, 2013 by Anna
I was fortunate enough to meet Leslie about 8 years ago....she has been my personal attorney ever since, I know many attorneys but rarely met one who is so dedicated to her clients. She goes the extra mile every time. no issue is too large or too small. She has navigated me successfully thru career changes, business purchases and sales. Has saved me thousands of dollars in bad decisions that were avoided because of her advice. I have referred her to many of my clients and they have been extremely pleased 100% of the time. great communication, great representation, an A+++++ all the way, every time.
Read more
15 May, 2013 by Steven
Ms. Feifer made me feel like she cared about my situation even more than I did. She is incredibly skilled as an attorney, and I feel very confident recommending her to anyone.
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by Patricia martinez
Incredible law firm! They communicate very well, and keep you updated throughout your case. Deserves more than five stars.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Kianna monroe
Mr. Vigliotti was able to get all of my cases dismissed! A conviction of any kind could’ve put my professional license in jeopardy. He also kept me updated every step of the way. Great lawyer! Would highly recommend to anyone with legal troubles.
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Aamir hamja
Great family man and put up with a hundred questions from me, reassured me through everything and gave me a solid, realistic plan. No bs from this legend, would highly recommend 🙏🔥
Read more
05 Jan, 2019 by Maura
I have used Scott Wooster of Wooster and Wooster several times and my sister has used him as well. Scott is a very compassionate, thorough and honest attorney that leaves no stone unturned. He keeps you informed on every aspect of the case so you always know how everything is going. If your case goes to trial he tells you what to expect and makes you comfortable with the process. He has been successful in all of the cases he has handled for my family. You can always feel confidant when Scott is on your side! I recommend Scott to anyone that needs a GREAT attorney.
Read more
14 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Scott effectively negotiated a settlement with 2 insurance companies following an auto accident. He explained to us the basics of insurance, no-fault and tort law and set our expectations early. He remained available to us for questions and his office handled our no-fault claims even when initially denied by the company. Well recommended.
Read more
13 Dec, 2018 by Terri
Scott has been my family's lawyer for many years.
He has always represented us in a very professional manner. Best of all he has never lost a case for us. I would recommend him with out giving it a second thought.
Read more
21 Mar, 2023 by Sara michele berman
Outstanding Performance gets the job DONE .Extremely thorough ,and beyond smart.
Read more
19 Apr, 2013 by Jonathan
Divorce is obviously a quite stressful time, so it is VITAL that your lawyer does their job professionally, swiftly, and for lack of a better word expertly. My stress level was quite high during this time period, but Mr. Levine made the process easier to deal with. I was well informed all the way thru the process, and I never felt as though it would not be resolved to my satisfaction. Mr. Levine knows the law inside and out, and I can say w/ 100% certainly he will be the ONLY lawyer I recommend in this arena. Highly recommended!!!
Read more
23 Mar, 2013 by David
While I had worked with a few attorneys, I did not get the results I now have in place until I met and hired Mr. Levine. I met him through chance and and consider myself extremly fortunate to have met him. It might not have been great circumstances given the situation with my ex-wife but it turned around very quickly once Mr. Levine was able to use his years of experience and savy negotiation skills. Mr. Levine returned calls promptly and even offered advice to me DURING THE SUPER BOWL. I know of very few attorneys who would have spoken to one of their clients during the Super Bowl. There was not a time in which I called him that I had to wait too long for a response.
The staff at Mr. Levine's firm was equally responsive and professional while dealing with my case. I am glad now when I have to deal with my ex-wife because I know I have Mr. Levine and his firm on my side if I needed them again. I must also say that knowing I haqve Mr. Levine's on my side has kept my ex-wife in check and not so ready to go to lawyers to try to deal with any issues we might disagree with about our children,. I am with my kids half the time and I can say this is because of Mr. Levine's guidance and knowledge.
Read more
16 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Results and service beyond my expectations as a personal and corporate client of Mohen & Treacy, LLP. Partners manage and lead a professional environment wherein Associates and Paralegals are employed to best serve clients and cost considerations.
Excellent lines of communication. I know where I stand with each and every situation for which Mohen & Treacy consult.
Read more
15 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
I have known Thomas Mohen of MT Law for 2-3 years now. He and his asscociates have perfomed an outstanding and expedient service to myself with my real estate closing. Not only was he well prepared with all of my materials and instructions for my closing, but he has given my very accurate information about my situation. In addition, he is soft spoken, a great listener, responsive to my questions, a man of great honor, and indeed, a true friend. My closing was completed seamlessly with great thanks to the exemplary professionalism he and his associates had offered me. I reccommend Tom to anybody in need of legal support at any discipline.
Read more
15 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
There has never been a question or a problem that Thomas Mohen and his law firm could not answer and solve. From the selling of a home; landlord/tenant issues; drawing up of wills; to matters of litigation my family has felt very comfortable and has been very satisfied with the services that we have recieved through the years.
Read more
28 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
Jon handled my divorce and got me a wonderful result. Judge really respected him and my husband's lawyer knew he couldn't get away with nonsensical motions. I kept custody of my child and received a large finacial award because Jon knew his stuff. His bill was fair and he earned every penny. He got me through a trying time with skill and compassion.
Read more
11 Aug, 2010 by Melina
He got me my result and was very responsive. You couldn't ask for anymore from a lawyer.
Read more
11 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
I had a very complicated case and Kroll really understood the issues and obtained a great result for me in Court. He was worth everything I paid because of the result. He was aggressive yet compassionate.
Read more
18 Dec, 2020 by Vl
Ellen assisted my mother and I with estate planning, probate and 2 real estate deals. She helped clean up what another attorney left hanging so to speak, with a probate issue that involved a property and was able to handle everything as well as advise us on best practices given our situation, she was "down to earth" and easy to talk to. I was impressed with her service and responsiveness so we chose to use her services for 3 real estate transactions for us. She is attentive to detail and has in all cases protected us as her clients down to the smallest detail. I was recommended to her and would recommend her for estate planning, real estate or probate as these are the services I've personally have had with her services.
Read more
02 Dec, 2020 by Stuart
Five years ago my wife was diagnosed with early onset dimentia. I knew it was time to get my financials in order. A good friend recommended me to Ellen Victor. She was caring, knowledgeable and very reasonable. She advised me to set up a trust to protect our assets. Since then I have recommended her to all my friends. Many have used her and were all satisfied .
Read more
02 Dec, 2020 by Carol
Love her...our family has used Ellen for 7-8 years to handle Trust & Elder Care issues for both parents and siblings. Ellen works dilligently, thoughtfully and with great patience. Ellen has spent countless hours with family meetings accomodating multiple time zones, always responding to our questions, calls and emails. Because I don't live locally, Ellen has been a great resource of available services on LI which has been key. Bottom line-she's a great attorney who truly loves what she does and it shows.
Read more
08 Jan, 2021 by Jerri
Matt was assigned to my dad by the judge hearing a motion that he filed with the court in 2015. Due to the pandemic I advised my dad to file for a compassionate release but I knew he would need help in preparing a strong supporting argument. So I reached out to Matt. I knew it was a lot to ask for but he didn’t even hesitate to say yes! I could tell from the sound of his voice that he genuinely cared and had concern for my dad’s well being. He worked hard and fast gathering all the supporting documents. Matt was detailed and thorough in his approach. He’s not only knowledgeable and skilled, he’s empathetic. Matt was available whenever I had questions and concerns. He understood my urgency and was patient when I needed assurances that he was doing all that he could. The day he sent his final plea to the judge in support of the compassionate release I thanked him from the bottom of my heart. I let him know that whatever the outcome my gratitude for his services had no words. The next day his call changed our lives forever! After 32yrs of incarceration for a non violent drug offense my dad was granted release. I got to spend my first Christmas since I was 1years old with both my parents and for that I am truly forever grateful. Matt, YOU are an angel. Thank you!
Read more
07 Nov, 2016 by Jonathan
Matthew Brissenden is an exceptional attorney. I was looking at a very severe sentence of over ten years in federal prison. He worked diligently to make sure I would not be incarcerated. He is extremely knowledgeable and answered all of my questions during this lengthy process. In the end, his professionalism and strategy paid off. I can not thank him enough and would recommend him to anyone in need of a great attorney.
Read more
27 Oct, 2011 by Kathleen
Matthew contributed to my fathers release. My father was sentenced to life and once Matthew got his hands on the case, it contributed a great deal to the "time served" sentence my father received....after 22 years incarceration. Matthew kept myself and family informed, asked for our assistance when needed, When I would email him with questions...even after my father received his sentence he answered. No matter what day of time it was or day of the week. Matthew is a great asset to the team @ Old Country Road!!!
Read more
18 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Joey is smart and very calm. She is super professional and is very detail oriented and honest. I highly recommend her.
Read more
28 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Attorney Michaels. She is sharp and prepares well for court. I was glad to have her on my side as she fought off the numerous and unfounded vicious attacks of my ex with vigor and expertise.
Read more
30 Sep, 2014 by Joann balipezz brooklyn ny
I thank God everyday for my Lawyer Joey Michaels...she has gotten me thru the most difficult time of my life in my divorce...I was and still am A stay at home mom raising my beautiful children even tho my ex husband thought he could abandon us running away with his mistress n leaving us with nothing...Out of my two children my son is handicap n in a wheelchair full time...my struggles have been beyond horrible to go thru n even horrible for others to hear and see what I was left to deal with...my Amazing Lawyer Joey Michaels kicked Ass...she is so professional yet such a Pit Bull in the court room...she knows her stuff n she's very sharp with her words and tactics....I recommend her to anyone in desperate need to prove the Evil wrong...Joey Michaels has a huge loving heart and she feels your situation n she truly cares...I have trusted her with my life and most importantly my children's lives...she has not let me down...I consider her my guardian angel and I can't thank her enough in believing in me n never giving up...she's given me the courage n strength that I've needed thru my divorce process...if you are afraid n feel lost n don't know who you can trust in looking n choosing a divorce lawyer then please take it from me n go for Joey Michaels...I promise you that you won't regret it...she is exactly what anyone going thru a divorce n in search of a lawyer needs....she will forever be in my prayers n I will forever consider her family.
Read more
09 Apr, 2015 by Garrett
Had some matters with my grandfather that I needed assistance with. Daniel was supper responsive, very knowledgeable and did right by me and my family. I don't normally write online reviews but felt compelled to by his performance in our matter. I couldn't recommend him more highly.
Read more
09 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Dave and Dan Smith helped me through the most difficult situation in my life involving having myself appointed as the Guardian for my parents. I'll always be grateful for that.
Read more
02 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
Dan Smith kept me "in the loop" about my case throughout the process. He was always available by email and returns calls. Definitely a big step up from my previous experience with attorneys.
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
Read more
Find Your Lawyer
By Practice Area
-
Real Estate
-
Litigation
-
Business
-
Family Law
-
Personal Injury
-
Estate Planning
-
Tax
-
Criminal Defense
-
Child Support
-
Insurance
-
Appeals
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Elder Law
-
Government
-
Child Custody
-
Probate
-
Trusts
-
Civil Rights
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Consumer Protection
-
Intellectual Property
-
Car Accident
-
Mediation
-
Bankruptcy
-
Foreclosure
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Discrimination
-
Debt Collection
-
Wrongful Death
-
Workers Compensation
-
Domestic Violence
-
Immigration
-
Class Action
-
Federal Crime
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Employment / Labor
-
Entertainment
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Adoption
-
Divorce
-
Debt Settlement
-
Cannabis Law
-
Copyright Application
-
Credit Repair
-
Juvenile Law
-
Wrongful Termination
-
DUI / DWI
-
Sex Crime
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:
-
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:
-
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?
To make the most of your initial meeting with a lawyer, come prepared with:
-
Relevant Documents:
Bring all documents related to your case, such as contracts, correspondence, legal notices, court papers, or evidence. -
Written Summary:
Prepare a concise written summary of your situation, including key dates, events, and involved parties. -
List of Questions:
Write down any questions you have about your case, the legal process, or the lawyer's experience. -
Financial Information:
If applicable, bring financial documents like pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements. -
Contact Information:
Provide details of any witnesses or other parties relevant to your case. -
Personal Identification:
Bring a valid ID for verification purposes. -
Pen and Notebook:
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:
-
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.
-
Hourly Rate:
-
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.
-
Complexity of the Case:
-
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.
