Filter by

star star star star star
16 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I don't normally write reviews but I am very thankful to Juliana and her staff. She helped me through a difficult time and her main concern was always getting me a good setlement and saving me money. Although the case started out as a divorce lawsuit by my ex, we were able to settle it without making any court appearances. I was very impressed by how dedicated Juliana was, she was willing to drop everything to work on my case when there was something important going on. She also met me at the office after 6 pm and on Saturday because I work long hours. I would highly recommend her as a divorce attorney and her staff was good too.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Julie LoBiondo was my divorce attorney, she really helped me a lot. i started out with my wife bringing false charges against me and having no visitation. Julie got me 50/50 custody and my child is much happier now. The divorce case went to trial and it went on for weeks. Julie is an excellent trial attorney, you can tell she just had so much more experience than the other attorney. She spent so much time with me prepping my trial and we worked together almost day and night. She and her husband Anthony were so kind to me. She event prepped for trial with me at her home office every night after the trial. We worked as a team and she was able to subpoena and find out all kinds of assets that my wife had hidden away and which I got 50% of. And she really cared about me and my child so I am very grateful to her and very grateful she agreed to take my case. If it were not for her I do not know where my child and i would be right now. Thank you, LoBiondo law offices.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Juliana represented me in a divorce action back when I was in graduate school. She did a great job at trial, and we spent a great deal of time prepping the case. Although I am a skilled professional, lawyering is not my profession and it was important to have someone with me who would listen and help me understand what was going on. Juliana exceeded my expectations, she was available to me at all times, even coming in on weekends to prep the trial. She did a great job and I ended up keeping my professional license as separate property. This allowed me to start out my new life in a great position. I have since happily remarried and have a wonderful family with my new wife. I am very thankful for Juliana and very happy I went to her. Unfortunately, I have known quite a few people who have needed her services and everyone who I have referred to her has thanked me. There is no one else like her out there, I honestly don't think any other attorney would have taken this much time for me. She also knew I was in graduate school and allowed me to go on a payment plan, which was very helpful at the time. On behalf of my current wife and myself, I heartily thank Juliana and her staff for everything they have done for me.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
02 Jul, 2024 by Richard cypher
I do not consider leaving a Negative review lightly however feel strongly compelled to share my experience for the good of others. I hired Dennis Kenny Law to represent me with a work related Low Back Injury with no time lost from work. Years later I had another work related injury to my Cervical Spine which removed me from work and required surgery. In short my ( apportioned ) cases became somewhat complicated, and as a result I would share the following. Although it is clear The job of a W/C lawyer is a difficult and complicated dance, I can look back with clarity and recount how overly attached I needed to be, and found the need to correct many very important inconsistencies and mistakes. They sent unprepared different people to important hearings. They gave me many pcs of wrong information. They were very un attached and un empowering. Leaving me to sort things and correct them on very important things involving my case. With a ( you don't have to Settle your case, but the Insurance Companies can do what they want ) Message. My Cases Never should have been allowed to Settle in the way they have been. I have been left with a tangled web of complications regarding Medicare Set Aside and any clear understanding of whom is responsible for what. And even less access to care. I would be more than happy to sit with Dennis Kenny and explain the problems, These are Matters I spoke of and was told I was over thinking things. Now I have been left in a very difficult position due to some Simple verbiage left in my Settlement Contract, But since I sent a letter to both Kenny's office and the Board with No acknowledgment at all, I do not see that happening. Upon reluctantly Settling the Judge told me that I would still have Dennis Kenny to help me with any issues. I feel anyone who cared enough to review my cases would feel I should have recourse and I will be seeking it for what its worth. I still have every penny of the Settlement money in the bank and would love nothing more than to give it back in return for a clearly understood fair outcome. Know that when you sign on with a Lawyer you are in for the duration. And will live with the outcome. I Honestly feel that I taught them more than they taught me, And I have been left in a very ugly place. Richard Cypher
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Mar, 2024 by Daphne balkaran
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Feb, 2024 by Laurie demaria
My son has been through multiple people during his case. No one seems to know what's going on, and the hearing he had via internet, had to be canceled because the lawyer was unprepared not having the Dr's report! We specifically sat down with his Dr months before the hearing! The lawyer had plenty of time to get the records! Now we get the same paperwork for the 3rd time which will require 2 dr visits and your firm wants it asap?
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Aug, 2024 by Michelle herdigein
I used Joe Saffioti when I purchased my first home. He was knowledgeable, patient, kind, and organized. When I sold that home and purchased my next property, I used his services again. Again, he was wonderful. His staff is absolutely incredible and couldn't have been more kind and helpful during this stressful process (closing on the sale of one home and purchase of another home on the same day). I would recommend Joe Saffioti and his team for any real estate dealings. He's truly the best!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Mar, 2024 by Imran hassan
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Feb, 2024 by Trey bentley
So I am , senior female, who pulled over To use my cell phone for directions, I saw an empty parking lot at the law offices of Stephanie Donato in Newburgh and figured that would be a pretty safe place and on a Saturday afternoon at 1:30. It looked closed. A few minutes later, a man pulled in a white Jeep Dressed like he was in hunting clothes and aggressively approached me asking me if I needed help. When I explained, I was just using my cell phone he pointed to the sign and told me it was private property and he was the owner and waved me on like a was loitering or something. I would never use any attorney that acted in such an aggressive and despicable manner to anyone who merely pulled over for a moment to use their cell phone, by the way, he’s a personal injury attorney . So I guess he would rather push me along to an unsafe place rather than be nice to a neighbor. I’m sure he presents himself in a different light, when wearing a suit and tie in his office, but on his off hours He’s an unkind, arrogant jerk.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 Jul, 2024 by Richard cypher
I do not consider leaving a Negative review lightly however feel strongly compelled to share my experience for the good of others. I hired Dennis Kenny Law to represent me with a work related Low Back Injury with no time lost from work. Years later I had another work related injury to my Cervical Spine which removed me from work and required surgery. In short my ( apportioned ) cases became somewhat complicated, and as a result I would share the following. Although it is clear The job of a W/C lawyer is a difficult and complicated dance, I can look back with clarity and recount how overly attached I needed to be, and found the need to correct many very important inconsistencies and mistakes. They sent unprepared different people to important hearings. They gave me many pcs of wrong information. They were very un attached and un empowering. Leaving me to sort things and correct them on very important things involving my case. With a ( you don't have to Settle your case, but the Insurance Companies can do what they want ) Message. My Cases Never should have been allowed to Settle in the way they have been. I have been left with a tangled web of complications regarding Medicare Set Aside and any clear understanding of whom is responsible for what. And even less access to care. I would be more than happy to sit with Dennis Kenny and explain the problems, These are Matters I spoke of and was told I was over thinking things. Now I have been left in a very difficult position due to some Simple verbiage left in my Settlement Contract, But since I sent a letter to both Kenny's office and the Board with No acknowledgment at all, I do not see that happening. Upon reluctantly Settling the Judge told me that I would still have Dennis Kenny to help me with any issues. I feel anyone who cared enough to review my cases would feel I should have recourse and I will be seeking it for what its worth. I still have every penny of the Settlement money in the bank and would love nothing more than to give it back in return for a clearly understood fair outcome. Know that when you sign on with a Lawyer you are in for the duration. And will live with the outcome. I Honestly feel that I taught them more than they taught me, And I have been left in a very ugly place. Richard Cypher
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Mar, 2024 by Daphne balkaran
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Feb, 2024 by Laurie demaria
My son has been through multiple people during his case. No one seems to know what's going on, and the hearing he had via internet, had to be canceled because the lawyer was unprepared not having the Dr's report! We specifically sat down with his Dr months before the hearing! The lawyer had plenty of time to get the records! Now we get the same paperwork for the 3rd time which will require 2 dr visits and your firm wants it asap?
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 Jul, 2024 by Richard cypher
I do not consider leaving a Negative review lightly however feel strongly compelled to share my experience for the good of others. I hired Dennis Kenny Law to represent me with a work related Low Back Injury with no time lost from work. Years later I had another work related injury to my Cervical Spine which removed me from work and required surgery. In short my ( apportioned ) cases became somewhat complicated, and as a result I would share the following. Although it is clear The job of a W/C lawyer is a difficult and complicated dance, I can look back with clarity and recount how overly attached I needed to be, and found the need to correct many very important inconsistencies and mistakes. They sent unprepared different people to important hearings. They gave me many pcs of wrong information. They were very un attached and un empowering. Leaving me to sort things and correct them on very important things involving my case. With a ( you don't have to Settle your case, but the Insurance Companies can do what they want ) Message. My Cases Never should have been allowed to Settle in the way they have been. I have been left with a tangled web of complications regarding Medicare Set Aside and any clear understanding of whom is responsible for what. And even less access to care. I would be more than happy to sit with Dennis Kenny and explain the problems, These are Matters I spoke of and was told I was over thinking things. Now I have been left in a very difficult position due to some Simple verbiage left in my Settlement Contract, But since I sent a letter to both Kenny's office and the Board with No acknowledgment at all, I do not see that happening. Upon reluctantly Settling the Judge told me that I would still have Dennis Kenny to help me with any issues. I feel anyone who cared enough to review my cases would feel I should have recourse and I will be seeking it for what its worth. I still have every penny of the Settlement money in the bank and would love nothing more than to give it back in return for a clearly understood fair outcome. Know that when you sign on with a Lawyer you are in for the duration. And will live with the outcome. I Honestly feel that I taught them more than they taught me, And I have been left in a very ugly place. Richard Cypher
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Mar, 2024 by Daphne balkaran
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Feb, 2024 by Laurie demaria
My son has been through multiple people during his case. No one seems to know what's going on, and the hearing he had via internet, had to be canceled because the lawyer was unprepared not having the Dr's report! We specifically sat down with his Dr months before the hearing! The lawyer had plenty of time to get the records! Now we get the same paperwork for the 3rd time which will require 2 dr visits and your firm wants it asap?
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 Jul, 2024 by Richard cypher
I do not consider leaving a Negative review lightly however feel strongly compelled to share my experience for the good of others. I hired Dennis Kenny Law to represent me with a work related Low Back Injury with no time lost from work. Years later I had another work related injury to my Cervical Spine which removed me from work and required surgery. In short my ( apportioned ) cases became somewhat complicated, and as a result I would share the following. Although it is clear The job of a W/C lawyer is a difficult and complicated dance, I can look back with clarity and recount how overly attached I needed to be, and found the need to correct many very important inconsistencies and mistakes. They sent unprepared different people to important hearings. They gave me many pcs of wrong information. They were very un attached and un empowering. Leaving me to sort things and correct them on very important things involving my case. With a ( you don't have to Settle your case, but the Insurance Companies can do what they want ) Message. My Cases Never should have been allowed to Settle in the way they have been. I have been left with a tangled web of complications regarding Medicare Set Aside and any clear understanding of whom is responsible for what. And even less access to care. I would be more than happy to sit with Dennis Kenny and explain the problems, These are Matters I spoke of and was told I was over thinking things. Now I have been left in a very difficult position due to some Simple verbiage left in my Settlement Contract, But since I sent a letter to both Kenny's office and the Board with No acknowledgment at all, I do not see that happening. Upon reluctantly Settling the Judge told me that I would still have Dennis Kenny to help me with any issues. I feel anyone who cared enough to review my cases would feel I should have recourse and I will be seeking it for what its worth. I still have every penny of the Settlement money in the bank and would love nothing more than to give it back in return for a clearly understood fair outcome. Know that when you sign on with a Lawyer you are in for the duration. And will live with the outcome. I Honestly feel that I taught them more than they taught me, And I have been left in a very ugly place. Richard Cypher
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Mar, 2024 by Daphne balkaran
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Feb, 2024 by Laurie demaria
My son has been through multiple people during his case. No one seems to know what's going on, and the hearing he had via internet, had to be canceled because the lawyer was unprepared not having the Dr's report! We specifically sat down with his Dr months before the hearing! The lawyer had plenty of time to get the records! Now we get the same paperwork for the 3rd time which will require 2 dr visits and your firm wants it asap?
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 Jul, 2024 by Richard cypher
I do not consider leaving a Negative review lightly however feel strongly compelled to share my experience for the good of others. I hired Dennis Kenny Law to represent me with a work related Low Back Injury with no time lost from work. Years later I had another work related injury to my Cervical Spine which removed me from work and required surgery. In short my ( apportioned ) cases became somewhat complicated, and as a result I would share the following. Although it is clear The job of a W/C lawyer is a difficult and complicated dance, I can look back with clarity and recount how overly attached I needed to be, and found the need to correct many very important inconsistencies and mistakes. They sent unprepared different people to important hearings. They gave me many pcs of wrong information. They were very un attached and un empowering. Leaving me to sort things and correct them on very important things involving my case. With a ( you don't have to Settle your case, but the Insurance Companies can do what they want ) Message. My Cases Never should have been allowed to Settle in the way they have been. I have been left with a tangled web of complications regarding Medicare Set Aside and any clear understanding of whom is responsible for what. And even less access to care. I would be more than happy to sit with Dennis Kenny and explain the problems, These are Matters I spoke of and was told I was over thinking things. Now I have been left in a very difficult position due to some Simple verbiage left in my Settlement Contract, But since I sent a letter to both Kenny's office and the Board with No acknowledgment at all, I do not see that happening. Upon reluctantly Settling the Judge told me that I would still have Dennis Kenny to help me with any issues. I feel anyone who cared enough to review my cases would feel I should have recourse and I will be seeking it for what its worth. I still have every penny of the Settlement money in the bank and would love nothing more than to give it back in return for a clearly understood fair outcome. Know that when you sign on with a Lawyer you are in for the duration. And will live with the outcome. I Honestly feel that I taught them more than they taught me, And I have been left in a very ugly place. Richard Cypher
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Mar, 2024 by Daphne balkaran
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Feb, 2024 by Laurie demaria
My son has been through multiple people during his case. No one seems to know what's going on, and the hearing he had via internet, had to be canceled because the lawyer was unprepared not having the Dr's report! We specifically sat down with his Dr months before the hearing! The lawyer had plenty of time to get the records! Now we get the same paperwork for the 3rd time which will require 2 dr visits and your firm wants it asap?
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Lisa m
Professional, experienced, considerate can only describe the firm and partners.Had to avail ourselves of services which were addressed both timely and reasonably. Rare Find. Highly Recommend Hudson Valley Ski Club Lisa McDonald Director
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Apr, 2024 by Paul harrington
My attorney Paul Ernenwein of Catania, Mahon & Rider was able to get my cases dismissed (ACD) and reduced in a very fair manner and at a very reasonable cost. I appreciate his due diligence. Thank you !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2023 by Kimberly murphy
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Lisa m
Professional, experienced, considerate can only describe the firm and partners.Had to avail ourselves of services which were addressed both timely and reasonably. Rare Find. Highly Recommend Hudson Valley Ski Club Lisa McDonald Director
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Apr, 2024 by Paul harrington
My attorney Paul Ernenwein of Catania, Mahon & Rider was able to get my cases dismissed (ACD) and reduced in a very fair manner and at a very reasonable cost. I appreciate his due diligence. Thank you !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2023 by Kimberly murphy
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Lisa m
Professional, experienced, considerate can only describe the firm and partners.Had to avail ourselves of services which were addressed both timely and reasonably. Rare Find. Highly Recommend Hudson Valley Ski Club Lisa McDonald Director
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Apr, 2024 by Paul harrington
My attorney Paul Ernenwein of Catania, Mahon & Rider was able to get my cases dismissed (ACD) and reduced in a very fair manner and at a very reasonable cost. I appreciate his due diligence. Thank you !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2023 by Kimberly murphy
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Lisa m
Professional, experienced, considerate can only describe the firm and partners.Had to avail ourselves of services which were addressed both timely and reasonably. Rare Find. Highly Recommend Hudson Valley Ski Club Lisa McDonald Director
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Apr, 2024 by Paul harrington
My attorney Paul Ernenwein of Catania, Mahon & Rider was able to get my cases dismissed (ACD) and reduced in a very fair manner and at a very reasonable cost. I appreciate his due diligence. Thank you !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2023 by Kimberly murphy
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Lisa m
Professional, experienced, considerate can only describe the firm and partners.Had to avail ourselves of services which were addressed both timely and reasonably. Rare Find. Highly Recommend Hudson Valley Ski Club Lisa McDonald Director
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Apr, 2024 by Paul harrington
My attorney Paul Ernenwein of Catania, Mahon & Rider was able to get my cases dismissed (ACD) and reduced in a very fair manner and at a very reasonable cost. I appreciate his due diligence. Thank you !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2023 by Kimberly murphy
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Lisa m
Professional, experienced, considerate can only describe the firm and partners.Had to avail ourselves of services which were addressed both timely and reasonably. Rare Find. Highly Recommend Hudson Valley Ski Club Lisa McDonald Director
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Apr, 2024 by Paul harrington
My attorney Paul Ernenwein of Catania, Mahon & Rider was able to get my cases dismissed (ACD) and reduced in a very fair manner and at a very reasonable cost. I appreciate his due diligence. Thank you !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2023 by Kimberly murphy
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Lisa m
Professional, experienced, considerate can only describe the firm and partners.Had to avail ourselves of services which were addressed both timely and reasonably. Rare Find. Highly Recommend Hudson Valley Ski Club Lisa McDonald Director
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Apr, 2024 by Paul harrington
My attorney Paul Ernenwein of Catania, Mahon & Rider was able to get my cases dismissed (ACD) and reduced in a very fair manner and at a very reasonable cost. I appreciate his due diligence. Thank you !!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2023 by Kimberly murphy
Google Maps
See more
Michelle Anderson, experienced  attorney in Newburgh, NY with 24 reviews
star star star star star
3.8/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.0
23 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Aug, 2024 by Michelle herdigein
I used Joe Saffioti when I purchased my first home. He was knowledgeable, patient, kind, and organized. When I sold that home and purchased my next property, I used his services again. Again, he was wonderful. His staff is absolutely incredible and couldn't have been more kind and helpful during this stressful process (closing on the sale of one home and purchase of another home on the same day). I would recommend Joe Saffioti and his team for any real estate dealings. He's truly the best!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Mar, 2024 by Imran hassan
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Feb, 2024 by Trey bentley
So I am , senior female, who pulled over To use my cell phone for directions, I saw an empty parking lot at the law offices of Stephanie Donato in Newburgh and figured that would be a pretty safe place and on a Saturday afternoon at 1:30. It looked closed. A few minutes later, a man pulled in a white Jeep Dressed like he was in hunting clothes and aggressively approached me asking me if I needed help. When I explained, I was just using my cell phone he pointed to the sign and told me it was private property and he was the owner and waved me on like a was loitering or something. I would never use any attorney that acted in such an aggressive and despicable manner to anyone who merely pulled over for a moment to use their cell phone, by the way, he’s a personal injury attorney . So I guess he would rather push me along to an unsafe place rather than be nice to a neighbor. I’m sure he presents himself in a different light, when wearing a suit and tie in his office, but on his off hours He’s an unkind, arrogant jerk.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
15 Oct, 2021 by Tim rinaldo
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Aug, 2021 by Gisela
we hired him to read the sales contract on our house - he obviously did not read the contract and just send it on to us the loan for the buyer did not go thru because the Buyer did not put down enough down payment and therefore did not get the loan. This Lawyer should have made us right away aware of that we have lost 3 month because of his neglegience.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2020 by Peter horan
Smart honest loyal.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 May, 2023 by C olson
He made house closing a total frustration due to delays in communication. Miserable experience with attorney. Office staff was very nice.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Jun, 2022 by Robert ambrosetti
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Jun, 2022 by Jessica-lynn ambrosetti
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Worst attorney. At first he tries to be engaging, then expect him to take atleast a month to answer an email, which is extremely unprofessional. You get what you pay for. Too easy going, will put you to the side and not even file the right paperwork with the courts!! I had no choice but to fire him which was the best thing I could have done.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Sep, 2017 by Deborah
He failed at helping me with my divorce. I lost all my personal belongings and didn't care. Didn't care that my ex lied in court. Never challenged anything. Was way too laid back. He let my ex's attorney walk all over him and me. I lost my pension and annuity. The amount of child support he accepted on my half was ridiculous at $25. a month for 3 children. He said I couldn't do better and take it. He never addressed college for my kids or the fact I pay for health insurance and the cost increases every year. I was screwed over!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
12 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Lawyer failed to advise me of the limitations of the lease I was using for eviction of the tenant. He indicated it was straight forward. I would not have engaged him had I known that my chances of success were minimal.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. McGillicuddy as my attorney to represent me in a worker’s compensation case against my company. This was necessary in order to obtain authorization for the back surgery I required because of a work related injury. This case was against a very large semiconductor manufacturing facility in Poughkeepsie New York. Mr. McGillicuddy promised during our consultations that when the time comes to present our case at the compensation board he will bring out all the necessary facts. Mr. McGillicuddy requested from me any information I could supply involving the company accident. This included any of my reviews which would be helpful to my case in court. I did so and also provided him with an excellent review. He said this would be very beneficial at our hearing with the compensation judge. The compensation board hearing with the judge did not take place for many months. Within this time period I required extensive back surgery. This required steel plates with screws and a spinal fusion. Just before the compensation board hearing was to take place Mr. McGillicuddy had me in his office for a final consultation. When I asked about the good review I had given him he stated “he could not find it” but said it is not needed since it will be “his day in court”. During the morning of the compensation board hearing I entered the court to find Mr. McGillicuddy was not present. When asked, the court informed me that another attorney had been provided in his place. This attorney was a retired judge and he was not even familiar with me or my name. I had never seen or heard about him in any meetings with Mr. McGillicuddy and he never informed me about him. Thank goodness for the fact that my orthopedic surgeon was there as a witness in my case. If you are looking for a competent attorney who is working with you I would defiantly not recommend Mr. McGillicuddy under any circumstances. Look somewhere else. Gave one star only to post review, otherwise a zero!
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

Top Questions to Ask a Lawyer

When meeting with a lawyer for the first time, it's important to ask the right questions to understand their expertise and determine if they're the right fit for your legal needs. Here are some top questions to consider:

  1. What experience do you have with cases similar to mine?
    Ensure the lawyer has relevant experience in the specific area of law pertaining to your case.
  2. How do you charge for your services, and what are the estimated costs?
    Understand the fee structure, including hourly rates, flat fees, retainer fees, and any additional expenses.
  3. What potential outcomes can I expect from my case?
    While no lawyer can guarantee results, they can provide an assessment of possible scenarios based on their experience.
  4. What is your approach to handling cases like mine?
    Learn about their strategy, whether they prefer negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
  5. Who will be working on my case?
    Find out if the lawyer will handle your case personally or delegate tasks to other attorneys or paralegals.
  6. How will you communicate with me throughout the process?
    Establish expectations for updates, preferred communication methods, and response times.
  7. What is the likely timeline for resolving my case?
    Get an estimate of how long the process may take from start to finish.
  8. Do you have references from past clients?
    Testimonials or references can provide insight into the lawyer's professionalism and effectiveness.
  9. What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
    Understanding potential challenges helps you prepare and sets realistic expectations.
  10. Are there alternative ways to solve my legal problem?
    Discuss options like mediation, arbitration, or settlement to resolve the issue efficiently.

How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer

Before hiring a lawyer, it's crucial to verify their credibility and ensure they're qualified to handle your case:

  1. Verify Their License:
    Check with your state's bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and in good standing.
  2. Experience and Specialization:
    Ensure the lawyer specializes in the area of law relevant to your case.
  3. Disciplinary Record:
    Look up any history of disciplinary actions or complaints through the state bar association.
  4. Client Reviews and Testimonials:
    Read reviews on legal directories like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge client satisfaction.
  5. Professional Memberships:
    Membership in professional organizations or specialty bar associations can indicate a commitment to their field.
  6. Awards and Recognitions:
    Honors from reputable organizations reflect expertise and a positive reputation.
  7. Consultation Assessment:
    Use the initial consultation to evaluate their communication skills, responsiveness, and willingness to address your concerns.
  8. Ask for References:
    A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your initial meeting with a lawyer, come prepared with:

  1. Relevant Documents:
    Bring all documents related to your case, such as contracts, correspondence, legal notices, court papers, or evidence.
  2. Written Summary:
    Prepare a concise written summary of your situation, including key dates, events, and involved parties.
  3. List of Questions:
    Write down any questions you have about your case, the legal process, or the lawyer's experience.
  4. Financial Information:
    If applicable, bring financial documents like pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements.
  5. Contact Information:
    Provide details of any witnesses or other parties relevant to your case.
  6. Personal Identification:
    Bring a valid ID for verification purposes.
  7. Pen and Notebook:
    Take notes during the consultation to remember important points.
  8. Budget Constraints:
    Be ready to discuss your budget and any financial limitations.

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a lawyer varies widely based on several factors:

  • Fee Structures:
    • Hourly Rate:
      Lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on experience and location.
    • Flat Fee:
      For routine legal services like drafting a will or handling an uncontested divorce, lawyers might offer a flat fee.
    • Retainer Fee:
      An upfront payment against which the lawyer bills hourly fees.
    • Contingency Fee:
      Common in personal injury cases; the lawyer receives a percentage (typically 25% to 40%) of any settlement or award.
    • Monthly Retainer:
      For ongoing services, businesses might pay a monthly fee for a set number of hours or services.
  • Factors Affecting Cost:
    • Complexity of the Case:
      More complex cases require more time and resources, increasing costs.
    • Lawyer's Experience:
      Highly experienced lawyers may charge higher fees.
    • Geographic Location:
      Legal fees can vary significantly by region or city.
    • Additional Expenses:
      Court filing fees, expert witness fees, travel expenses, and administrative costs may be extra.
  • Estimating Total Costs:
    Request a detailed fee agreement outlining all potential costs.
    Discuss any additional expenses that may arise during the case.
  • Negotiating Fees:
    Some lawyers may be willing to negotiate fees or offer payment plans, especially for clients with financial constraints.
  • Pro Bono Services:
    For those who cannot afford legal services, some lawyers or legal aid organizations offer services at reduced rates or for free.
Scroll to top