Filter by

star star star star star
02 Apr, 2017 by Michelle
I was in an automobile accident late 2015. The injuries I sustained were substantial. I had s long list of specialists that I was seeing on regular basis. Brent was more than helpful providing me with answers to my many, many questions and concerns as well as making calls in my behalf to fight for my no fault benefits. I will continue to spread my positive experience with others about Scarzafava and Basdekis and Brent Dadey
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Nov, 2015 by Rashaud
I was injured on the job working for a railroad company. After being told by another lawyer things would be ok and not seeing any progress I went to scarzafava and basdekis. Brent and Theo treated me like a person deserves. I was never left in the dark and they would even go out of their way to call and see how everything was going. I had a great experience with this law firm and would highly recommend them to anyone. Thanks again Brent and Theo you guys are both class acts
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
31 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
From the beginning conversations I had with Brenton, it was obvious that he was very enthusiastic and passionate about his job. This enthusiasm was met with an uncanny wealth of knowledge surrounding my particular case. From the initial conversations that I had with Brenton, it was obvious that I had made the right decision to allow him to represent me. I was truly confident in his abilities. Brenton was responsive, forward-thinking, organized, patient, a great communicator, and most importantly, a great listener. He helped me understand the various options I had surrounding my case and answered every question that I had along the way. His personable nature surrounding my case showed me that he genuinely cared about ME and my case. Brenton worked diligently on my case - harder than I thought anyone ever would. Brenton represented me with the upmost integrity and passion. I will forever be thankful!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
07 May, 2013 by Rick
I worked for New York State for 25 years (retired now) I've worked with many attorneys. I choose to retain Walter because he is the best. Walter has been my attorney for years. He is very knowledgeable and very responsive. Additionally his staff it top notch.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
03 Apr, 2015 by Jeffrey
I had a wonderful experience as Mr. Jervis worked endlessly on my case. He was responsive and easy to communicate with. Would recommend his office to anyone.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
26 Nov, 2023 by Cory farber
Great people very eager to help you when you need it.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Nov, 2023 by Nathan griffin
Any scenario involving retaining counsel can feel daunting and overwhelming, no matter the circumstance. Brenton Dadey of Scarzafava, Basdekis & Dadey, PLLC is an exceptional attorney and it was clear from the outset of my initial consultation that I had chosen a law firm with the gravitas and professionalism requisite for the truly vigilant representation I required while maintaining access to an authentic and empathetic human being throughout. No small feat- to say nothing of a thoroughly positive outcome in my case! He and his staff have shown me nothing but courtesy, professionalism, and respect. I am tremendously grateful for all of their efforts on my behalf. Thank you all.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Jul, 2023 by Jassely because i say so!
Good communication
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
01 Jul, 2021 by Matt muller
Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Mar, 2021 by Billy
I would highly recommend Robert Gouldin. I needed a lawyer for a real estate transaction and wasn't living in the area where the transaction was taking place. Robert handled it with ease, explaining issues and keeping me informed along the way. We closed in the timeframe he anticipated -- he got the job done. Robert is reputable, easy to work with and reasonably priced
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
My first offense in my life, 2 misdemeanors, led me to 45 days in jail. He then accused me of trying to break into his home, and warned me of his German Shepard? Every lawyer I repeat the case to laughs at this man. He ruined Oneonta for me, and should be ashamed. How did he pass the bar? If you want to stay out of otsego county jail, DO NOT HIRE THIS MAN.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
26 Nov, 2023 by Cory farber
Great people very eager to help you when you need it.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Nov, 2023 by Nathan griffin
Any scenario involving retaining counsel can feel daunting and overwhelming, no matter the circumstance. Brenton Dadey of Scarzafava, Basdekis & Dadey, PLLC is an exceptional attorney and it was clear from the outset of my initial consultation that I had chosen a law firm with the gravitas and professionalism requisite for the truly vigilant representation I required while maintaining access to an authentic and empathetic human being throughout. No small feat- to say nothing of a thoroughly positive outcome in my case! He and his staff have shown me nothing but courtesy, professionalism, and respect. I am tremendously grateful for all of their efforts on my behalf. Thank you all.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Jul, 2023 by Jassely because i say so!
Good communication
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
26 Nov, 2023 by Cory farber
Great people very eager to help you when you need it.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Nov, 2023 by Nathan griffin
Any scenario involving retaining counsel can feel daunting and overwhelming, no matter the circumstance. Brenton Dadey of Scarzafava, Basdekis & Dadey, PLLC is an exceptional attorney and it was clear from the outset of my initial consultation that I had chosen a law firm with the gravitas and professionalism requisite for the truly vigilant representation I required while maintaining access to an authentic and empathetic human being throughout. No small feat- to say nothing of a thoroughly positive outcome in my case! He and his staff have shown me nothing but courtesy, professionalism, and respect. I am tremendously grateful for all of their efforts on my behalf. Thank you all.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Jul, 2023 by Jassely because i say so!
Good communication
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Dec, 2023 by Corbin c
Google Maps
star star star star star
13 May, 2020 by Christine conkling
Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Mar, 2020 by Marguerite meheganmondore
Knowledgeable
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Mar, 2024 by Alindsay66
He was my appointed attorney and never kept in touch. I still to this day have to call him for information.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Nov, 2023 by Cory farber
Great people very eager to help you when you need it.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Nov, 2023 by Nathan griffin
Any scenario involving retaining counsel can feel daunting and overwhelming, no matter the circumstance. Brenton Dadey of Scarzafava, Basdekis & Dadey, PLLC is an exceptional attorney and it was clear from the outset of my initial consultation that I had chosen a law firm with the gravitas and professionalism requisite for the truly vigilant representation I required while maintaining access to an authentic and empathetic human being throughout. No small feat- to say nothing of a thoroughly positive outcome in my case! He and his staff have shown me nothing but courtesy, professionalism, and respect. I am tremendously grateful for all of their efforts on my behalf. Thank you all.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
28 Nov, 2023 by Tiredofliars
Horrible! This guys wears a mask all the time and you can still smell his gum disease. Doesn’t respond to emails until it’s 2 am. Has immature comments to say to the other party and their lawyer without ever addressing your concerns. Family court is not his thing. Might be good at collecting dirt and speaking in renascence lingo but not a family lawyer at all. Had him as a hire and a court appointed I could not get rid of until I hired new. He is always late to court, never does a pre trial discussion. His office looks worse than my first college apartment! RUN from this “man” as fast as you can!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Aug, 2023 by Marshall
I payed Mr Laughlin quite a bit if money for representation!! Said representation was poor and inadequate several motions could face been asked of the court but Mr Laughlin just said no they don’t don that type of thing. The next client represented by different council. Asked and recieved. I had asked Mr Laughlin about representation in a seoerate matter week 2 to be exact He split obliged!!! And that’s where it’s ended he completely let me hanging had an excuse for not replying to my emails time after time I called the office they days let’s make an appt to meet. That was a month and a half ago Havent heard from Them Since very unprofessional not very upmto date om movements and procedures ect And he lied Right to Me. I’d not suggest this firm
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
02 Feb, 2022 by Larry
Dennis handled a particularly difficult eviction for me that spanned the entire Covid timeline. He stayed abreast of the everchanging rules imposed by Albany and kept me informed regarding the options available at every step of the process. He provided sound, calming council in very tenuous situation.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Dec, 2022 by John thomas
Very Professional
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Jul, 2022 by Jim lyon
I asked for help with my SSD and they refused to help me not on the merit of my case alone. Shouting and blaming my assistant. I needed Mr Hill's assistance at this time. They (She) said they wanted to get paid so they only take cases they can win easily. I have a letter from an accredited neurologist that states I am 100% disabled. Why isn't the bar association looking into ethical violations?
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Dec, 2021 by Cory farber
Very nice people
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 Aug, 2024 by Patrick rider
Mr. Hegeman, is an outstanding lawyer and a gentleman. I almost never write reviews but I felt compelled to share my opinion about Mr. Hegeman after he represented me in Delaware County in a highly complex and technical case. He worked quickly, precisely, completed thorough and meticulous research and proved to be the legal scholar I had hoped for. Consider yourself blessed to have Mr. Hegeman represent you.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Aug, 2023 by Lana hilton
Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jan, 2023 by Bonnie meyer
We had won bimonthly visitation to have our granddaughter spend Saturday noon to Sunday noon at our home with our initial visitation hearing with a different lawyer My husband and I retained Mr. Hegman to represent us in family court to modify our visitation to add extra time with our eldest granddaughter. Our daughter and her now husband violated visitation with our younger granddaughter. Mr. Hegeman led us to believe we had a very good chance of succeeding in family court. I worked very hard to prepare for our trial by printing out all text messages between myself and the respondents, I prepared several pages of notes for Mr Hegeman with dates, times, and statements from witnesses to prove that the respondents lied on several occasions regarding visitation.He told me that I was one of his most organized clients. Mr. Hegeman did not spend time with us before the trial started to prepare for the trial to discuss our strategy. Instead he was called to work a pro Bono case which delayed our court appearance. During the trial Mr Hegeman would not listen to our concerns while the respondents gave their testimony, and didn't acknowledge what we wrote on the pad of paper he provided during the trial. When the respondents lawyer was trying his best to damage my character, Mr. Hegeman could have referred to my 200 plus pages of text messages that would support my side of the story. We lost our bimonthly visitation with our granddaughter because Mr. Hegeman didn't do the job we hired him to do Mr Hegeman didn't even have the decency to contact us with the judges decision but merely sent me an email!!!! I called him distraught and crying about all we had lost. He had no remorse and told me to have a nice day!!!!! I'm sure he will probably remove my review! Mr. Hegeman why don't you try explaining to our granddaughter why she can't visit with Nanna and Pop-Pop anymore, when she's crying on the phone because she misses us!!!!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 Aug, 2024 by Patrick rider
Mr. Hegeman, is an outstanding lawyer and a gentleman. I almost never write reviews but I felt compelled to share my opinion about Mr. Hegeman after he represented me in Delaware County in a highly complex and technical case. He worked quickly, precisely, completed thorough and meticulous research and proved to be the legal scholar I had hoped for. Consider yourself blessed to have Mr. Hegeman represent you.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Aug, 2023 by Lana hilton
Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jan, 2023 by Bonnie meyer
We had won bimonthly visitation to have our granddaughter spend Saturday noon to Sunday noon at our home with our initial visitation hearing with a different lawyer My husband and I retained Mr. Hegman to represent us in family court to modify our visitation to add extra time with our eldest granddaughter. Our daughter and her now husband violated visitation with our younger granddaughter. Mr. Hegeman led us to believe we had a very good chance of succeeding in family court. I worked very hard to prepare for our trial by printing out all text messages between myself and the respondents, I prepared several pages of notes for Mr Hegeman with dates, times, and statements from witnesses to prove that the respondents lied on several occasions regarding visitation.He told me that I was one of his most organized clients. Mr. Hegeman did not spend time with us before the trial started to prepare for the trial to discuss our strategy. Instead he was called to work a pro Bono case which delayed our court appearance. During the trial Mr Hegeman would not listen to our concerns while the respondents gave their testimony, and didn't acknowledge what we wrote on the pad of paper he provided during the trial. When the respondents lawyer was trying his best to damage my character, Mr. Hegeman could have referred to my 200 plus pages of text messages that would support my side of the story. We lost our bimonthly visitation with our granddaughter because Mr. Hegeman didn't do the job we hired him to do Mr Hegeman didn't even have the decency to contact us with the judges decision but merely sent me an email!!!! I called him distraught and crying about all we had lost. He had no remorse and told me to have a nice day!!!!! I'm sure he will probably remove my review! Mr. Hegeman why don't you try explaining to our granddaughter why she can't visit with Nanna and Pop-Pop anymore, when she's crying on the phone because she misses us!!!!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Feb, 2023 by Cody barnes
Free attorney from the state
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 May, 2022 by Dawna ross
Joe is the best....very professional, quick and very accurate... no nonsense ...
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
09 May, 2022 by Joshua landauer
Would not recommend this practice in a real estate matter after mortgage application fell through with community bank they would not send the sellers original documents to the property the title and deed back to him they claimed they never received it
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2018 by Adam dirig
Very professional, got the job done.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Jun, 2022 by Denise o-b
Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
First off, I just want anyone reading this too know that David Taylor is an astonishing legal mind who is refreshingly transparent! Far more then any I've ever seen from any attorney, especially one in the area (location) he practiced! Otsego County is a cesspool for corruption and crooked public officials of which Attorney Taylor is NOT! It's not my business to judge nor disclose in one way or another the information about the suspension he received that AVVO mentions on his Attorney Profile Page. That's precisely why I said what I said above about him being an outstanding and refreshingly transparent attorney, because he is. Which I should also point out has become a more and more uncommon thing for attorneys too do. David Taylor is a brilliant legal mind who knows the law and it's application far better than that of a huge portion of his colleagues. He is a lawyer who chose on his own to pursue a career in a lesser populated area where he might be able to do the most good instead of pursuing a law career within a Multi-Million dollar law firm billing $4,000 Per Hour! And make no mistake! Attorney Taylor could have pursued that very thing and would have succeeded! Attorney Taylor did not represent me in any criminal proceedings but if he had, I have no doubt he would have been loads better then the ones I have had throughout my life. That leads me to a long story (hopefully) made short. Following what was one of the most unethical and immoral proceedings I've ever experienced, that same experience was not done with me yet... Where I live, the pool of criminal defense attorneys is very limited if you don't have thousands of dollars at your disposal to hire one. That means you end up with a Public Defender who has absolutely ZERO interest in helping there clients regardless of what the case might be for. That spans from petit larceny, public intoxication, burglary, drug possession and the most disgusting and despised kind of criminal; the pedophiles!! Everyone is entitled too a defense though right? The answer is yes! But will you get a defense attorney who has YOUR best interests at heart?? The answer is NO! But David Taylor is a rare exception to the expected norm of public defenders, at least among this location at the very least. I specifically requested David Taylor at a court proceeding for an arraignment approximately 2-3 weeks after having been sentenced to state prison for 1 to 3 years for a "burglary" charge. I requested David Taylor because he and I had developed a rapport over the course of several months before being sentenced in the above mentioned case. My request for the specific lawyer was granted by the presiding judge in a new case which was for Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd degree which was a gross over charge considering the events, details and specifics of the allegation. I contacted David Taylor when I received official notice he was appointed to my case. Before speaking with Attorney Taylor, I had also contacted a family member and conveyed that I had a strong suspicion about a crucial detail of the case that would never have been turned over in discovery UNLESS I took the charge to trial. I'm referring to Confidential Informants in case you don't understand. I told the family member a name which I wanted given to Attorney Taylor which he did receive. That would later go on to be confirmed without being officially confirmed in the court records because Attorney Taylor had previously represented the C.I. in my case for the charge which he became a C.I. from to get his charges reduced. That person committed a crime FAR AND ABOVE more serious then mine. Attorney Taylor displayed incredible ethics and concern for me, just as he has with all of his clients! The District Attorney had no choice but to release the name of the informant because of the huge conflict of interest the case possessed which otherwise wouldn't have been released UNTIL trial!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
Best attorney I've ever met!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
16 Jun, 2022 by Denise o-b
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Jun, 2022 by Denise o-b
Google Maps
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