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David Robert Barlow, experienced Bankruptcy attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 95 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
47,73
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
11 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
84 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
Easy to work with, non judgmental, straight to the point, replies very quickly to emails.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
David Barlow was an excellent attorney, very professional and efficient! He handled my daughters case and she recommended him to us. He helped us through the entire process painlessly. Anytime we had any questions or concerns that came up along the way he always returned our call or e-mailed uswith the answer to my questions. He kept us informed by sending any correspondence immediately and made sure we were aware of any updates or changes with our case. I would highly recommended him to any friend or family member!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Amerie barrett
Such a nice experience after a dead end - two hour search for an Attorney. Mr. Barlow took the time to call me back after office hours. He was the first attorney I was able to get in contact with. He was informative, and even though he could not help me with my issue, he asked questions and tried to help by thinking of who may be able. He cut to the chase, and was clear on his wording which I appreciated. His Paralegal was also extremely kind and helpful when I initially called. When I called and spoke with Mr. Barlow's Paralegal, she did not believe they would be able to take my case, however she still reached out to Mr. Barlow to see if he could help. He got back to me within one hour and shared what he could. I will go back to this law office when/if I have relevant needs due to this experience today.
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Jeffrey Young Bennett, experienced Immigration attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 55 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
47,57
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
4.9
7 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
48 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Jan, 2025 by Ashley walter
I worked with Kasey Klenda after a motor vehicle accident and he was so quick, professional, and made everything smooth and easy. I would recommend this firm for any of your needs!!
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star star star star star
18 Nov, 2024 by Anna waltke
Joe is all of the things you would want in a lawyer - smart, empathetic, efficient and responsive. He helped us navigate unusual and difficult circumstances with the utmost professionalism. We couldn’t be more appreciative and would recommend him over and over again!
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star star star star star
30 Sep, 2024 by Zavo zavo
Dear Maya, I am thankfully letting you know that I got my 10 years green card last week on Friday. Thank you so much for the best results in my 7 years immigration journey. Thank you so much for the keeping my family together. You are the BEST LAWYER I have ever had, seen, and experienced. Sincerely, Lisa and Geoff
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William Elmer Niffen II, experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 104 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.
44,61
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
84 Reviews
star star star star star
31 Jul, 2024 by Amerie barrett
Such a nice experience after a dead end - two hour search for an Attorney. Mr. Barlow took the time to call me back after office hours. He was the first attorney I was able to get in contact with. He was informative, and even though he could not help me with my issue, he asked questions and tried to help by thinking of who may be able. He cut to the chase, and was clear on his wording which I appreciated. His Paralegal was also extremely kind and helpful when I initially called. When I called and spoke with Mr. Barlow's Paralegal, she did not believe they would be able to take my case, however she still reached out to Mr. Barlow to see if he could help. He got back to me within one hour and shared what he could. I will go back to this law office when/if I have relevant needs due to this experience today.
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star star star star star
31 Jul, 2024 by Lance sayre
My experience with Dave Barlow and his legal team was above expectation. As a client of theirs I felt extremely supported and was given wonderful advice pertaining to my case on top of the case being handled quickly and efficiently. The process was quick and seamless, and the price is unmatched.
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star star star star star
01 Jul, 2024 by Troy
My wife and I would like to recommend Bill Niffen, and also thank him for the wonderful service. We hired Mr. Niffen to help with my wife's immigration case. She received her residency card in five months due to his process, amazing! I can't say enough about this man's attention and character. He never made us feel like just another client. He truly cared about what happened and we will forever be grateful. Thank you Bill!
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Kyle Henry Sciolaro, experienced Business, Social Security & Disability attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 20 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.
39,62
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2022 by John
I have known Kyle since law school. He is passionate and very thorough with his work. I highly recommend him.
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star star star star star
23 Oct, 2020 by Bill
Kyle’s performance as my lawyer was responsive and professional. He took all of the personal aggravation I was feeling away from the beginning by saying, I’ll fight for you! Kylie was easy to communicate with and he produced a positive outcome! Thank you Kyle! You rock! Bill S.
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19 Sep, 2020 by Shawnee
I have had the pleasure of having Kyle Sciolaro represent me on two cases and he has advocated on my behalf as if he knew me personally. He is detail oriented, driven and very dedicated to getting a fair and just settlement in every case. He is the best lawyer I have ever had the pleasure to talk to you and he would be my first choice every time.
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Jonathan Matthew Guilfoil, experienced Criminal Defense, Personal Injury attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 127 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.
39,13
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
127 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2024 by Amanda dockery
Would absolutely recommend this law firm! Matt was pleasant to work with.Very nice people, including his secretary Susan. Thank you again!
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star star star star star
01 Oct, 2024 by Alexa bay
Matt saved me and helped me out in all my cases and gave me a very generous rate ! Highly recommend his lawfirm!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Derrick cochran
Matt was so helpful to me in my time of need for representation. When I didn't know what actions to take with my DWI he explained to me my options and the best way to move forward. I would say he is the best DWI attorney in Kansas City.
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Valerie K. Sprout, experienced Immigration attorney in North Kansas City, MO 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
12 Feb, 2016 by Justin patrick
I have no word to describe such remarkable law immigration group with professional and skilled attorneys. They helped from the first, step by step and they did more than what they promised. I was very impressed when I found my attorney flew 2 hours to another city (as our city does not have Homeland Security Office for political asylum) to defend my case in front of the officer while she does not have to. She even did not ask me for the travel expenditure as she knew I was not in a good economic situation. She came, defended my case in front of officer and told me “pay whenever you could stand on your feet”. She answered all my questions patiently; even she helped me in many issues which it was out of her responsibility. My asylum was approved in the first stage by the officer and I did not have to go to the court and …. As I said I cannot find a word to say how they were professional, skilled and nice. If you are looking for an immigration attorney, the McCrummen Immigration Law Group and specially Valrie Sprout is the best you can find. Trust Valrie and leave your case to her. You will never be regret. I promise.
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07 Aug, 2015 by Bintou
She took my case for pro bono and I was treated like a client that paid her money. She was straight forward and was correct with the run firm she estimated. I just received my welcome notice for my approved green card but I cannot wait for my actual card to come and say a BIG thanks.
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Maya Yiye King, experienced Family Law, Immigration attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 48 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.
39,05
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
48 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Jan, 2025 by Ashley walter
I worked with Kasey Klenda after a motor vehicle accident and he was so quick, professional, and made everything smooth and easy. I would recommend this firm for any of your needs!!
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star star star star star
18 Nov, 2024 by Anna waltke
Joe is all of the things you would want in a lawyer - smart, empathetic, efficient and responsive. He helped us navigate unusual and difficult circumstances with the utmost professionalism. We couldn’t be more appreciative and would recommend him over and over again!
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star star star star star
30 Sep, 2024 by Zavo zavo
Dear Maya, I am thankfully letting you know that I got my 10 years green card last week on Friday. Thank you so much for the best results in my 7 years immigration journey. Thank you so much for the keeping my family together. You are the BEST LAWYER I have ever had, seen, and experienced. Sincerely, Lisa and Geoff
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Christa Danielle Yarnevich, experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 48 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.
39,05
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
48 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Jan, 2025 by Ashley walter
I worked with Kasey Klenda after a motor vehicle accident and he was so quick, professional, and made everything smooth and easy. I would recommend this firm for any of your needs!!
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star star star star star
18 Nov, 2024 by Anna waltke
Joe is all of the things you would want in a lawyer - smart, empathetic, efficient and responsive. He helped us navigate unusual and difficult circumstances with the utmost professionalism. We couldn’t be more appreciative and would recommend him over and over again!
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star star star star star
30 Sep, 2024 by Zavo zavo
Dear Maya, I am thankfully letting you know that I got my 10 years green card last week on Friday. Thank you so much for the best results in my 7 years immigration journey. Thank you so much for the keeping my family together. You are the BEST LAWYER I have ever had, seen, and experienced. Sincerely, Lisa and Geoff
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Stacey Marie Anderson, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Dec, 2013 by Kimberli
Wonderful Lawyer who has handled two probates for our family .. She makes you feel like your situation is important to her and she is prompt , serious about the matter at hand and very friendly . And in a lawyer that's An A+++.
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John Stephen Newberry, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I retained John after a previous lawyer failed to keep pushing forward in my case, or doing anything for that matter. John has gone by the law, speaks to me realistically about my case, and has continuously pushed my case forward despite hurdles from the other party. Overall I feel like he's a great attorney because of his knowledge and history in this field.
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Derrick Anthony Pearce, experienced Litigation attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 481 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.
38,10
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
481 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2024 by Jenn pattison
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2024 by Travis tbone
This is the fourth time I have filed for disability and the lawyers at Burnett and Driscoll were the most helpful kindest lawyers that I've dealt with so far. Corie was amazing keeping in touch with me with all the little details and helping me out. I would highly recommend them for anyone struggling with help needing a good disability lawyer
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star star star star star
25 Sep, 2024 by Mslee a
I would recommend BurnettDriskill on this unfamiliar journey. With their guidance and expertise they keep you informed with your case.
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Stephen Wayne Nichols, experienced Criminal Defense, Personal Injury attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 2 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,50
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
2 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Aug, 2022 by 7even foot
Great attorney who knows what he's doing, sits down with you, contacts you with updates and very informal and open.
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04 Oct, 2015 by Eris renee
Work
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Rob A. Redman, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 2 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Apr, 2019 by Michelle
Rob helped my daughter and myself with some traffic tickets, he was very professional and kept us informed of the process, and what we needed to do on our end. He was prompt and great to work with, he made this process simple and provided great service. I appreciated his help.
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star star star star star
28 Feb, 2014 by Zac
He reduced several traffic Ticket's for me. Also did my father;s Divorce and did a great job at keeping everyone informed.
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Hans Herbert van Zanten, experienced Appeals, Car Accident attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 48 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.
35,05
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
48 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Jan, 2025 by Ashley walter
I worked with Kasey Klenda after a motor vehicle accident and he was so quick, professional, and made everything smooth and easy. I would recommend this firm for any of your needs!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Nov, 2024 by Anna waltke
Joe is all of the things you would want in a lawyer - smart, empathetic, efficient and responsive. He helped us navigate unusual and difficult circumstances with the utmost professionalism. We couldn’t be more appreciative and would recommend him over and over again!
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star star star star star
30 Sep, 2024 by Zavo zavo
Dear Maya, I am thankfully letting you know that I got my 10 years green card last week on Friday. Thank you so much for the best results in my 7 years immigration journey. Thank you so much for the keeping my family together. You are the BEST LAWYER I have ever had, seen, and experienced. Sincerely, Lisa and Geoff
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Andrea McGrath Wehner, experienced Social Security & Disability attorney in North Kansas City, MO 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
15 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
Andrea's combination of legal expertise and compassionate demeanor make her an outstanding advocate for those seeking deserved relief from the Social Security Administration. Clients who find their way to her are truly lucky to have such an accomplished and empathetic counselor.
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Tyse Samani, experienced Family Law, Medical Malpractice attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 89 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.
34,48
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
89 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Nov, 2024 by Clinton metz
Mr. Wells did an excellent job of resolving my case out of court! I hope I don't have to hire him again, but he will be my first choice if necessary.
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star star star star star
14 Oct, 2024 by Shea kloeppel
David was so kind and helpful! I was all anxious having never had a speeding ticket before and he put my mind at ease and was able to help me! Thank you!
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star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Eric & amber spiers
Though David was unable to serve the county I needed help in, he graciously took the time to look up names and numbers of attorneys who could help me in my county. I’m grateful for his time and help!
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Robin Kate Nelson, experienced Appeals, Government attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 481 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.
34,10
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
481 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2024 by Jenn pattison
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2024 by Travis tbone
This is the fourth time I have filed for disability and the lawyers at Burnett and Driscoll were the most helpful kindest lawyers that I've dealt with so far. Corie was amazing keeping in touch with me with all the little details and helping me out. I would highly recommend them for anyone struggling with help needing a good disability lawyer
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star star star star star
25 Sep, 2024 by Mslee a
I would recommend BurnettDriskill on this unfamiliar journey. With their guidance and expertise they keep you informed with your case.
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Jack A. Lewis, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 14 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
14,57
star star star star star
3.2/5
Google Maps
3.2
14 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Jun, 2022 by Tron turner
I tried to call. No one answered/ They immediately hung up
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star star star star star
24 Nov, 2021 by Loretta clark
I can't say anything about him at this point
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star star star star star
14 May, 2021 by Andy i
Great lawyer
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Justin C. Hunt, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Richard C Simons, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Kyle Sciolaro, experienced  attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Justin Cody Hunt, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Thomas P. Bryant, experienced Personal Injury, Workers Compensation attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Valerie Kathleen Sprout, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Jordan Richard Watson, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Tiffannie Kennedy Sears, experienced Consumer Protection, Insurance attorney in North Kansas City, MO with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Thomas Roy Onik, experienced Personal Injury attorney in North Kansas City, MO 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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Charles Thomas Palmentere, experienced Personal Injury attorney in North Kansas City, MO 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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Jonathan Matthew Guilfoil, experienced  attorney in North Kansas City, MO 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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Brendan Michael Quinn, experienced Real Estate attorney in North Kansas City, MO 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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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

Top Questions to Ask a Lawyer

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?

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

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