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Caprice Lillian Collins, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Inglewood, CA with 134 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.
44,88
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
114 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Jan, 2025 by Rodney
Title: Concerns About Caprice Collins' Role as Special Co-Trustee My late grandfather was a client of Caprice Collins, and she named herself as the Special Co-Trustee in his trust. When serious issues of theft and mismanagement by the trustees arose, Ms. Collins failed to fulfill her fiduciary duties. Instead, she submitted a notarized resignation, abandoning her responsibilities without appointing a successor as required by the trust. Caprice responded to me directly but did not post her reply publicly on Google. In her response, she attempted to justify her actions by stating her firm focuses on estate planning, not trust litigation. However, her role as Special Co-Trustee obligated her to act in the best interest of the trust, regardless of her firm’s stated focus. Resigning during a critical time for the trust was a breach of fiduciary responsibility. She is now attempting to have my review removed while refusing to address her breach of duty. Transparency and accountability are essential in estate planning. I encourage anyone considering her services to ask detailed questions about what happens if issues arise within a trust. See her response in the photos attached below
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star star star star star
23 Jan, 2025 by Rodney rouzan
I want to preface this by stating that I was not personally a client of Caprice Collins. However, my late grandfather was, and she set up his trust, naming herself as the Special Co-Trustee. She also set up a trust for my parents and several other family members, consistently listing herself as the Special Trustee. While she charges extra for this service, my experience has shown that when the time comes for her to fulfill those duties, she does not deliver. In my grandfather’s case, serious problems arose with the trustees, including theft and mismanagement of trust assets. My mother, as a beneficiary, was directly impacted, and I had to step in as her attorney-in-fact to protect her interests. When we reached out to Ms. Collins to address these issues, she claimed she had not been “retained” to act. However, her role as the Special Co-Trustee did not require any additional “retention”—it was her fiduciary duty to address these matters. Instead of fulfilling her responsibilities, she resigned from her position, violated the trust by failing to appoint a new Special Trustee as required, and abandoned her duties entirely. This left the beneficiaries to deal with the fallout on their own. I have since been advised by other attorneys, including former members of her staff, that Ms. Collins is primarily a salesperson who focuses on drafting trusts but lacks the knowledge or experience to handle disputes or problems when they inevitably arise. I’ve also been told she has never set foot inside a courtroom, which explains her inability to act when real issues occur. She overcharges clients for drafting trusts and making simple changes, but when challenges arise, she disappears. Based on this experience, I strongly advise against utilizing Ms. Collins’ services if you need someone reliable to handle trust-related disputes or fiduciary duties. While she may appear competent when drafting trusts, she has failed to demonstrate the responsibility, accountability, and expertise necessary to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries. If you are looking for someone who will truly stand by their word and fulfill their fiduciary obligations, Ms. Collins is not the right choice.
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star star star star star
15 Jan, 2025 by Marsha graham
The Living Trust information and services presented were very informative. This information highlighted where my family is deficient in protecting our family assets. We were ready prior to the presentation to complete a Family Trust, but after this seminar we are sure this firm has the resources and expertise to perform this task for our family. We truly believe anyone with any assets to protect should make an appointment for Collins Law Group Family Trust seminar.
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Jemal K Yarbrough, experienced Consumer Protection, Criminal Defense attorney in Inglewood, CA 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
26 May, 2010 by George
The car I purchased kept having problems that could not be repaired (continous break failure, air conditioner/heater did not work, windows got stuck). The dealer was able to make some repairs but I had to keep taking it back for the breaks. Jemal was very helpful and thorough all the way through until my case was resolved. I was very pleased with his professionalism, knowledge and follow through. I always knew the progress of the case and never had a doubt that I had the right lawyer. He got the manufacturer to buy back my vehicle and pay my repair fees and lawyer fees. He is the first person I will call the next time I need legal assistance for anything.
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24 May, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Yarbrough was professional, aggressive, and knowledgeable. Not only did he make me feel like I would win my case, he actually obtained fantastic results. The other side had a super type A attorney who was pushing me around. Mr. Yarbrough stopped all that and ended my nightmare. I highly recommend him.
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24 Mar, 2010 by Frank black
Mr. Yarbrough is an excellent attorney with the precise sharp legal mind to handle my case. He is extremely knowledgeable. He is considerate, helpful, and always makes time to answer any of my questions at time of day. He knows what he is doing, and he exceptional at it. I would recommend him to anyone else in a similar situation. I felt that he was the one honest attorney that did not try to scam me for more money for attorney's fee's. He always kept me up to date on the progress of the case. I would highly recommend him to everything
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Ian Noel, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Inglewood, CA 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.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Jun, 2013 by Darlyn
Mr. Noel is awesome! He helped me clean up a very big mess my previous attorney made by failing to timely file an important document. I was pleased with the way he was able to persuade the judge to allow us more time, resulting in a much better outcome than I expected. My case took quite some time and Mr. Noel's patience and level of expertise in this area gave me great comfort. I have recommended him to a friend of mine and she has been pleased with him as well. I highly recommend him for issues that are complicated and tricky. I never expected to be in this mess, but I am sure glad that he was there to pull me out of it. Kudos to Mr. Noel! Great job!
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07 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
We were very pleased with Mr. Noel's attention to detail and thoroughness. I have already recommended him to a friend and am very pleased with his performance.
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Lioness J. Ebbay, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Inglewood, CA with 114 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.
35,17
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
114 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Jan, 2025 by Rodney
Title: Concerns About Caprice Collins' Role as Special Co-Trustee My late grandfather was a client of Caprice Collins, and she named herself as the Special Co-Trustee in his trust. When serious issues of theft and mismanagement by the trustees arose, Ms. Collins failed to fulfill her fiduciary duties. Instead, she submitted a notarized resignation, abandoning her responsibilities without appointing a successor as required by the trust. Caprice responded to me directly but did not post her reply publicly on Google. In her response, she attempted to justify her actions by stating her firm focuses on estate planning, not trust litigation. However, her role as Special Co-Trustee obligated her to act in the best interest of the trust, regardless of her firm’s stated focus. Resigning during a critical time for the trust was a breach of fiduciary responsibility. She is now attempting to have my review removed while refusing to address her breach of duty. Transparency and accountability are essential in estate planning. I encourage anyone considering her services to ask detailed questions about what happens if issues arise within a trust. See her response in the photos attached below
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Jan, 2025 by Rodney rouzan
I want to preface this by stating that I was not personally a client of Caprice Collins. However, my late grandfather was, and she set up his trust, naming herself as the Special Co-Trustee. She also set up a trust for my parents and several other family members, consistently listing herself as the Special Trustee. While she charges extra for this service, my experience has shown that when the time comes for her to fulfill those duties, she does not deliver. In my grandfather’s case, serious problems arose with the trustees, including theft and mismanagement of trust assets. My mother, as a beneficiary, was directly impacted, and I had to step in as her attorney-in-fact to protect her interests. When we reached out to Ms. Collins to address these issues, she claimed she had not been “retained” to act. However, her role as the Special Co-Trustee did not require any additional “retention”—it was her fiduciary duty to address these matters. Instead of fulfilling her responsibilities, she resigned from her position, violated the trust by failing to appoint a new Special Trustee as required, and abandoned her duties entirely. This left the beneficiaries to deal with the fallout on their own. I have since been advised by other attorneys, including former members of her staff, that Ms. Collins is primarily a salesperson who focuses on drafting trusts but lacks the knowledge or experience to handle disputes or problems when they inevitably arise. I’ve also been told she has never set foot inside a courtroom, which explains her inability to act when real issues occur. She overcharges clients for drafting trusts and making simple changes, but when challenges arise, she disappears. Based on this experience, I strongly advise against utilizing Ms. Collins’ services if you need someone reliable to handle trust-related disputes or fiduciary duties. While she may appear competent when drafting trusts, she has failed to demonstrate the responsibility, accountability, and expertise necessary to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries. If you are looking for someone who will truly stand by their word and fulfill their fiduciary obligations, Ms. Collins is not the right choice.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Jan, 2025 by Marsha graham
The Living Trust information and services presented were very informative. This information highlighted where my family is deficient in protecting our family assets. We were ready prior to the presentation to complete a Family Trust, but after this seminar we are sure this firm has the resources and expertise to perform this task for our family. We truly believe anyone with any assets to protect should make an appointment for Collins Law Group Family Trust seminar.
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Craig Martin Smith, experienced  attorney in Inglewood, CA 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.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Craig was a member-of the law review at Berkeley and is a published member. He has served as a defense attorney in federal cases for over 7 years in San Diego Federal courts. He has worked for Federal Defenders, a hybrid non profit and government entity. What amazing experience. He is super smart!
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Margot Isabel McLeay, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Inglewood, CA with 66 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.
34,37
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
66 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2024 by Zamora parker
They are understanding and patient would recommend. Also looks for the best interest of there clients or what the client prefers.
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star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by Ricardo contreras
Muy profesionales, muy amables en el trato solucionaron mi caso de 10 años y todo su personal te atiende cuando necesites información en lo personal yo recomiendo ampliamente los servicios de Reuben J Felstiner. Gracias por su apoyo y dedicación hacia mí caso.
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star star star star star
29 Oct, 2024 by Aaliyah edwards
Very greatful for Attorney Reuben Felstiner and his assistant Karina Luis for settling my Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF) . They are very helpful and answered all my questions. Recommend this law office 100%.
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Reuben James Felstiner, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Inglewood, CA with 66 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.
34,37
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
66 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2024 by Zamora parker
They are understanding and patient would recommend. Also looks for the best interest of there clients or what the client prefers.
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star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by Ricardo contreras
Muy profesionales, muy amables en el trato solucionaron mi caso de 10 años y todo su personal te atiende cuando necesites información en lo personal yo recomiendo ampliamente los servicios de Reuben J Felstiner. Gracias por su apoyo y dedicación hacia mí caso.
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star star star star star
29 Oct, 2024 by Aaliyah edwards
Very greatful for Attorney Reuben Felstiner and his assistant Karina Luis for settling my Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF) . They are very helpful and answered all my questions. Recommend this law office 100%.
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Pamela Leggett Cooke, experienced Tax, Trusts attorney in Inglewood, CA 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.
31,27
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
16 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Feb, 2024 by Keana austin
Good representation
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star star star star star
09 May, 2023 by Chris b (hi c)
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Mar, 2022 by Denise williams
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Mary Ellis Cochran, experienced  attorney in Inglewood, CA 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.
31,27
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
16 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Feb, 2024 by Keana austin
Good representation
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 May, 2023 by Chris b (hi c)
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Mar, 2022 by Denise williams
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Patrick Felix Valdez, experienced Immigration attorney in Inglewood, CA 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.
29,14
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
4.3
6 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
No respect at all with a bad temper He says nothing but lies all he cares About is by stealing your money
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28 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Patrick is an incredible attorney, I was detained for almost 6 months until Patrick got me out on bond. After being out on bond he represented me in court. Today I am a legal permanent resident and will one day be a citizen! I could never repay him for this, but I can always recommend him for life! Thank you Patrick! !
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15 Aug, 2018 by Silvia c.
Very good and helpful lawyer! I finally got my residence card, I’m so thankful.
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Tala R Davis, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Inglewood, CA with 18 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.
27,27
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
1.5
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
16 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
AVOID this attorney!!!. She does a piss poor job at prepping and filing legal documents. She does not return phone calls or emails!!! Very frustrating!. Maybe she closed her firm since she has been a disservice.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
Very hard to get in contact. She did not file my deed correctly and I had to find someone else to correct it and pay an additional $350.00. Very nice attorney but unfortunately I cannot recommend her to anyone.
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17 Feb, 2024 by Keana austin
Good representation
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Marvin Lafayette Mathis, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Inglewood, CA 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
25 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
He started off strong and ended up shoddy. Case took too long. He was never able to get me any w/comp. disability benefits, either re-tro or current. I literary had no income for over 3 yrs. In court, I lost my case in the worse manner in regards to monetary benefits. He refused to help me try to get back my position with employer of 14 yrs.
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Illyssa Iona Fogel, experienced Bankruptcy attorney in Inglewood, CA 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
22 May, 2012 by Anonymous
3 years ago I learned that my partner had embezzled substantial funds from our firm, and that he'd run up unpayable debts; I also feared he might be leaving town imminently with the 2007 company van. I was referred to Ms. Fogel who--after a 20 minute phone cpnversation--told me I was a good candidate for Chapter 11: no specfics, no numbers, just generalities. I wired her a large retainer immediately, completed gathering all salient documents, records, acct #'s, et al., and sent them to her. Ms. Fogel assured me that my company debts would be negated or settled, that she would modify my rental unit mortgage, and I'd have no problem retaining the company van I paid for. By November, I was disturbed that no filing had been made and told her so. Consequently, my wife and I met with her @ her partner's office, where she assured us the the filing would be done by Thanksgiving. It wasn't, and in early December my partner absconded with the van, our best equipment, cash, and a company cell phone. For the next 6 weeks I kept asking her "when?" She finally filed in mid-January, 2010. 3 months later, when I asked how negotiations with the creditors were going, she informed me that I was a "bad fit" for Chap. 11, and that I should voluntarily withdraw my filing, which I did. However, my credit was ruined, I lost the rental, every last creditor came after me, and it took 2 years to track down my partner and get my van back. I am still paying off the last of the company debts. It shouldn't have been that way.
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Marlene Christina McNeill, experienced  attorney in Inglewood, CA 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
27 Sep, 2018 by James
I was represented by attorney, Marlene McNeil for my trail by jury. I got found guilty, and was sentenced to 20 years at 85%. The case was appealed by another attorney, at which I was never given all of the court transcripts to present my cade. Because Marlene McNeil only provided my appeal attorneywith portions of the transcripts, l lost my appeal and served 21 years on a case l Am innocent of. For numerous years I wrote to her for intire transcripts to no avail during those 21 years.
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Curt Stefan Steindler, experienced Car Accident, Real Estate attorney in Inglewood, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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
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0.0/5
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Jemal Kenya Yarbrough, experienced  attorney in Inglewood, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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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Benjamin Karol Tarzynski, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Inglewood, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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
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0.0/5
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Talon Leon Brown, experienced Bankruptcy attorney in Inglewood, CA 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
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0.0/5
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Joan Marie Miller, experienced Business, Tax attorney in Inglewood, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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
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0.0/5
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Louise K. Machado, experienced Intellectual Property attorney in Inglewood, CA 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
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0.0/5
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Tina Urvashi Amin, experienced  attorney in Inglewood, CA 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
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0/5
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Christiane Autumn Roussell, experienced  attorney in Inglewood, CA 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
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0/5
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Victor Olakunle Moses, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Inglewood, CA 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
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0.0/5
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Shana Jamila Wilcher, experienced Business, Tax attorney in Inglewood, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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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
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0.0/5
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Sandra Kong Lau, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Inglewood, CA 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
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0.0/5
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Hilary Diane Satzman, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Inglewood, CA 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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Ronda Renee Dixon, experienced  attorney in Inglewood, CA 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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Arinolayemi Atinuke Adegbonmire, experienced Business attorney in Inglewood, CA 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
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0.0/5
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Amy Lee, experienced Family Law attorney in Inglewood, CA with 0 reviews
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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
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0.0/5
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Amethyst R. Thormann, experienced  attorney in Inglewood, CA 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
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0.0/5
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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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