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13 Sep, 2024 by Chip prescott
Listens to concerns and easy to work with. Would recommend to friends or family
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17 Aug, 2024 by Helen bloemen
I found Wendell Belknap Knowledgeable, easy to talk to and completely comfortable. His work is extraordinary good in my opinion, and he is an honest man. Thank you Wendell.
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28 Jul, 2024 by Georgia bartel
Wendell was very professional, and helped us understand the whole process of wills, probate, etc. His sense of humor is great. We highly recommend him and his firm.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Peter hansen
Jared was amazing! Professional, knowledgeable, friendly, and ready for any question at any time. I would 100% recommend him to anyone needing an experienced lawyer.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Heidi cartner
Jared helped me tremendously. Obviously court is stressful and even when I was dismayed, I was redirected to stay on course. I was given a good outcome and received the best sentencing given my charges.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Amber b
Young people don't always make the best decisions. Jared went above and beyond, and then beyond again for my son. Jared was able to gain the trust of my son within the first meeting. In the end we had the best outcome possible. We are very please with the work that Jared did for us, and we will be referring everyone we know who needs the service to him. If you want a good lawyer who will fight for you, answer all your crazy questions, and actually care about the outcome, then Jared is your guy! We highly recommend him!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Chip prescott
Listens to concerns and easy to work with. Would recommend to friends or family
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17 Aug, 2024 by Helen bloemen
I found Wendell Belknap Knowledgeable, easy to talk to and completely comfortable. His work is extraordinary good in my opinion, and he is an honest man. Thank you Wendell.
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28 Jul, 2024 by Georgia bartel
Wendell was very professional, and helped us understand the whole process of wills, probate, etc. His sense of humor is great. We highly recommend him and his firm.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Daniel has a kind, professional, and calming nature that helped tone down my stress regarding my legal situation. He took the time to answer my questions and was supportive of my concerns. He's an amazing attorney and I highly recommend him.
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30 Oct, 2023 by Amy
The last 6-12 months have been the worst of my life trying to help my teenager, Mr. Woram was there every step of the way. He made sure that we felt supported, he did everything possible to help my son and I am so grateful. I cannot say thank you enough. He even stated his concern for me as a mother and made sure to check on me and my mental health, he truly cares about his clients and their families. Obviously, he cannot control everything, but he will do everything possible to get the best outcome possible. Thank you again for everything!!
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21 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Woram did a great job at making my first (and hopefully only!) offense end up being a stress free as possible and ended with a good outcome Im happy with, highly recommended
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05 May, 2021 by Eric
Mr. Wendell Belknap has been handling legal documents such as Last Will and Testament for my wife and me for many years. When my wife passed away last year, I asked Wendell for help with settling an IRA account that my wife had forgotten to link to a beneficiary. He was immediately helpful, explaining the various options available. After we selected probate as most appropriate, he carefully explained all aspects of the process, guiding me through how to get the personal representative class, summarizing assets, and formal notification (listing in local papers) for creditors, which he took care of. He referred me to another attorney who specialized in estates to help with determining the value of the estate. Additionally, Wendell personally handled communications with the IRA administrators regarding the probated estate so that appropriate paperwork would be completed. Wendell was always available for my questions and was clearly concerned that the process should be as easy and painless as possible. While probate can take a long time, and this one did, I was never concerned with the process knowing that Wendell was watching it every step of the way. I would highly recommend Wendell as your first contact lawyer.
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07 Apr, 2021 by Kathy
Wendell is an excellent choice for my uncontested divorce. From start to finish it was under 2 weeks! He was not only kind and caring but also knowledgeable and thorough. His secretary is also caring and they make a great team. I highly recommend Wendell for your Attorney! If ever I am in need I will be calling on him again.
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24 Dec, 2020 by Sue and sam
Wendall handled our case with knowledge and experience. Wendall was great in communicating each step of the process. We had another attorney that ended up dropping the case that is when we retained Wendall and he got us a full settlement for a car accident.
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22 Feb, 2023 by Zach
Rhett was able to get the DA to drop their DUII case against me all together 100%. His assistant was very communicative throughout the process
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05 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Rhett helped me through a personally difficult legal situation. He was knowledgeable, thorough, understanding and very easy to communicate with. He took control of my legal situation and guided me through the process. Fee was money well spent!! Thanks Rhett. Would not hesitate to recommend his services to friends and family.
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02 Dec, 2016 by Brad
Mr. Bernstein did a phenomenal job on my case. I had 7 prior DUIs when I hired Mr. Bernstein for my eighth. The County of Clackamas was insisting on the maximum sentence of 1 full year in jail on this charge. However, with Mr. Bernsteins advise and his amazing litigation experience, I served 75 days and am enrolled in a long term treatment program that was long overdue. I highly recommend Mr. Bernstein for criminal defense. He knows what he is doing and I have the highest respect for him.
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13 Mar, 2016 by Daniel
Shannon was referred to me by a good friend. She did an amazing job through the seven months of trial preparations and trial! Shannon adds to the real human factor with compassion and professionalism that truly sets her apart. I could not be any happier with all she has done! Jury verdict "not guilty". GOD bless you Shannon!!!
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21 Jan, 2014 by Dani
I worked with Shannon on a sticky landlord issue in the last month. She coached me through it until the end, and helped to ensure that my rights were upheld--as well as going above and beyond to make sure that my issue was resolved. Although I never wish a landlord issue on any friends or family, if something does happen, Shannon will be the first person that I would refer them to. I highly recommend her.
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24 Apr, 2012 by Matt and jan
Shannon helped us with a landlord tenant dispute. She was extremely knowledgeable and timely with her responses. During this sometimes stressful situation she was always professional. She gave accurate information and guided us through the process. We were very glad to have her on our side. She was referred to us by a fellow attorney who had worked with my mother. Thanks Shannon.
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10 Mar, 2017 by Shahin
Mr. Hingson has been a God send help for me in my legal defense. He was very prompt in his response and willing to help and assist as and when needed. He made me feel secured, protected, and well represented. He stepped in and took good care of all of the legal matters. He quickly understood what I was dealing with and knew how to handle the issues on a timely and professional manner. His experience, friendly attitude and mannerism is commendable. Thank you, Mr, Hingson for your help!
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17 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
John Henry fought with truth and knowledge to bring justice to my case and save my life. If you want the best , look no further.
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17 Sep, 2015 by Steen
Mr. Hingson was very thorough to the point of visiting my brother in person over 200 miles away. Always had angle or plan, end goal, or direction with every decision made and or word spoke. He was very to the point and did not give me false hopes, making sure I was aware of the status and the next procedures the entire process was going to take.
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22 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Alec has been nothing but a Godsend from the very beginning of this whole ordeal. He is very detailed on passing information onto me, I feel very involved in the situation even though it’s mainly hands off for me since that’s a lawyers job! I would recommend Alec and his entire firm to anyone!
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31 Mar, 2017 by James m
Alec Laidlaw was the second attorney I contacted. I was in a divorced, wanted split custody and was facing one of he more expensive and reputable law firms in the NW. Alec and his absolutely wonderful staff helped me understand all of my options and choose the best arrangement possible. Can't say enough about the staff and Alec. Wouldn't wish divorce on my worst enemy, but would recommend Laidlaw and Laidlaw in a heartbeat.
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22 Jun, 2016 by Michael
I hired Alec to represent me after my ex-wife reopened our divorce case years later alleging that I had hidden a large amount of money during our divorce which were not accounted for in the division of assets. Not only did Alec work diligently to prove these to be false allegations, he performed relentless discovery, played hard ball, and eventually was able to have my case dismissed with prejudice. I would recommend Alec to anyone who needs a good, thorough attorney in their corner to represent them in their family law case.
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23 Mar, 2018 by Trevor
Without Mia Getlin, my new recreational cannabis farm wouldn't exist. I'm a grower; without her guidance, I wouldn't know where to start. She helped get my farm licensed, organize my business documents and keep us compliant. She is incredibly helpful, reachable and dependable. I would recommend her to any starting, or currently licensed, cannabis company. Thank you Mia!
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17 Mar, 2018 by Allison
I run human resources and accounting for a tier 2 producer and Mia has been a great resource with employment and industry specific tax issues. She created our owner and employee contracts to fit our specific terms and conditions of employment. In addition she has helped me navigate those contracts when we have had concerns regarding the terms and how they applied to unforeseen employee issues. Overall, Mia Getlin is a skilled attorney with reasonable rates.
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09 Mar, 2018 by Michael
Mia helped us through our OLCC Producer setup and all the various elements of our business structure. She had some great recommendations and common sense solutions to some of our questions about governance and voting rights and helped us come up with a setup that works really well for us. All this was done at a significantly more affordable rate than we had been quoted by other firms.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
She has a solid knowledge, excellent articulation skills, terrific perseverance and great confidence to move a case in your favor.
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23 Feb, 2018 by Tyler
Kate was wonderful to work with and is an outstanding attorney! She was extremely knowledgeable in the area of employment law that was applicable to my situation. We communicated on a regular basis and she listened to everything I had to say. Kate was able to see the big picture... I feel I had a specific view of things that transpired, while Kate was able to take my perspective and then elaborate on that. Her written communication skills were fantastic. Every letter she drafted was dead-on accurate and was communicated succinctly and firmly. Much better than I ever expected! And the outcome of my case was awesome! I wouldn't hesitate recommending Kate to anyone I know. Thanks Kate!
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20 Feb, 2018 by Deborah
Kate calmed me, guided me, provided facts and strategy to my extreme satisfaction. She continues to be my attorney and I am thrilled with our recent victory. I would have been very lost without her wise counsel. She is a true professional.
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24 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I just retired from 30 years in education in Oregon. I have worked with several attorneys during those 30 years and Joel Hungerford is THE best Special Education attorney I have ever worked with. He returns phone calls and emails in a timely manner and he gets himself fully informed on situations quickly and thoroughly. He is an expert on the full range of Special Education law. His work is precise and accurate. His follow through is exceptional. His non-confrontational style is powerful and highly effective when IEP meetings turn contentious. When Joel presents at conferences and workshops, his room is packed to capacity. His charismatic and caring style enables him to deliver Special Education topics in an engaging manner that makes learning what is often "dry material" fun. And when you hire Joel, you not only get his brilliance, you get the combined brilliance of the entire Hungerford Law firm. I truly can not say enough wonderful things about Joel Hungerford.
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22 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Joel Hungerford's technical skills are excellent. He knows the law and does his homework in order to be well versed in the most current thinking pertaining to each case. His strategic thinking assisted us in fully understanding the long term implications of decisions we were making and in sizing up other parties involved. Joel's strong interpersonal skills contribute to his success, as well. He listens to his clients, quickly identifies dynamics within a group, and is able to factor the emotions at play into his work with the team. Perhaps most importantly, Joel has always acted with honesty and integrity in his dealings with me and others in my organization. I recommend him without reservation.
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06 Aug, 2015 by Kirk
Outstanding support and continued advice. Really took the stress out of dealing with Special Education Due Process Complaint(s) as well as the legal hearings. Navigated the court filing and communications to ensure our School District was in the best position possible to present it's case. Very personable!!! Helped to ease the stress and anxiety professional educators had during the process.
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25 Mar, 2017 by Brendan
I had an on-the-job back injury, and workers' compensation said they wouldn't cover treatment. Jim fought for me and I was able to get treatment, compensation, and also coverage through my long term disability insurance.
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30 Jan, 2015 by Tim
It's been several years since my case. He was very straightforward about my case and even helped me get back too work sooner than I thought I could. I was able too get back too work quickly on top of winning my case. Too keep this short he's kind,informative and always there. 5 out of 5 stars. T Beard
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06 Aug, 2014 by Joshua
James Guinn was there for me when I was goung through one of the most difficult times of my life. Dealing with workers compensation and the court system was very trying and discouraging at times. I knew James had my back and was doing everything in his power to fight for me, which made the process all that easier. Bottom line if, u need a intelegent trustworthy attourney he is your man
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25 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Divorce, The one word I never thought I would ever hear........again, but it happened. After weeks of researching attorney's to guide me through this difficult chapter, I went with Laidlaw & Laidlaw and got connected to Casey Ward. What a blessing! After my first consultation with Casey on Oregon Divorce law, I felt defeated, But as we progressed, with his fantastic guidance and communication, I will not have to be an 80 year old Walmart greeter(not that it's a bad thing). My now X who was totally unhappy with her representation was completely impressed with Casey's communication/execution on my behalf. Great Team!
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21 Apr, 2021 by Erik
Casey is knowledgeable, ethical, and on top of everything. A truly good and kind person. He is very intelligent and knows the law. He explained everything to me and everything he said came to be.
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24 Oct, 2018 by Mike
I hired this defense team to defend my son hew was facing serious charges. I was very impressed with the defense my son received. I can't thank you and your team enough.
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17 Jun, 2013 by Marcee
Spoke with me directly. Totally professional, honest and direct. I feel like I immediately have an advocate for myself and my 95 year old mother. Kind of a gentle way of engaging with me, in his manner of questions and answers. So refreshing in comparison to others in business that I have encountered. Seems to hold the space of compassion, which is so lovely in this day and age!!! I have met with him on 3 different occasions, and once with my Mother.
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16 May, 2021 by Sean
I hired Taly to defend a custody/parenting time modification filed by the other parent. She did a great job overall and she is an extremely nice person, in addition to a capable lawyer. I highly recommend Taly.
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24 Nov, 2017 by Robyn camp
Mr. Barnes was easy to talk to, very helpful and checked the facts. I would recommend him.
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21 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Sam helped me solve my problem with Clackamas County zoning. Thank you Sam!
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26 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
I was getting nowhere trying to deal directly with the insurance company for the person that hit me. They offered $1,500 to settle and after I hired Mike Longo, I settled for over $10K.
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28 Jul, 2014 by Erica
Max is incredibly professional, knowledgable and honest. At one point, he sent me a check because I'd overpaid him. If he wouldn't have sent the money back, I never would have known. Max took it upon himself to be forthright. I felt very taken care of while working with him. He kept me updated throughout every step of the process and always sent emails and invoices. If I need legal help again, I will certainly contact him. I would recommend him to my closest friends and family.
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30 Nov, 2014 by Ralph
I would definiately recommend Mr.Jerry C. Seeburger to any friends and family! He is one of the few attorneys that I have met that believes in his clients and he really goes the distance to bat for them! He keeps you well informed and up to date on everything thats going on no matter how busy he may be! He's upfront about whats going on with no Bull! But whats the most important thing about him I think is the fact that he really cares about his clients and it shows, you are not just another case to him that he trys to rush through he actually takes the time needed to get the job done right and make sure your fully understand your situation and rights!! Oh and he tends to "WIN" alot from what I have seen!!!!! He really knows his stuff! I highly recommend him without a doubt!!!!!!!!!!!!!!....
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21 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Don is the best of the best. His friendly and responsive office staff always got back to me to answer my questions. Thank you for your help Don!
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25 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
if this is the right lawyer, she is great and willing to what what it takes to get the best results for her clients. she kept me from getting alot of time in my case. she's very professional down to earth and understanding... so keep her in mind
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03 May, 2017 by Jessica
I had hired Brian over a period of months. He was very responsive, answered any questions I had, and even explained legal jargon that I did not fully understand. He helped me get acquitted of all charges and even went above and beyond in helping me navigate the legal repercussions that presented on my background during the whole process. If you have to hire a lawyer, hire Brian. I would hire him again, but hopefully I won't need to!
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03 Apr, 2012 by Richard
Ben Johnston is in my considered opinion a superlative lawyer in his area of expertise (traffic law). He has continually demonstrated a level of effectiveness and professionalism that other lawyers have as of yet to consistently demonstrate to me. Ben managed my case with total comprehension of the issues and challenges, setting out an effective strategy, setting my expectations correctly, and helping to achieve an outcome that a lesser attorney would not have achieved. He has repeatedly out-shined his colleagues in capability every time I have had him represent me. He is simply said a credit to the Oregon Bar and as a member of the legal profession, and an officer of the court.
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07 Jun, 2023 by Adam stack
Aubrey helped save my life. She’s super understanding and will not BS you in any kind of way. She made things happens that I honestly didn’t think would. She isn’t just my attorney but my friend. She cares about all her clients like you are family. Thank you Aubrey. I will definitely recommend her to everyone I know looking for the most badass attorney this side of the Mississippi.
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24 May, 2022 by Marissa stevens
Amazing! I had a long complicated case and she helped me quickly and got it resolved for me right away! So helpful and kind.
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11 May, 2022 by Julie miller
Aubrey is one awesome attorney! Her style of billing really makes it easy to budget for, without any hidden expenses, and her prowess in the courtroom is unmatched. She was able to help me with my case, not to mention finding a way to have it dismissed without anything being added to my record! 10 of 10 would recommend!!
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07 Jun, 2023 by Adam stack
Aubrey helped save my life. She’s super understanding and will not BS you in any kind of way. She made things happens that I honestly didn’t think would. She isn’t just my attorney but my friend. She cares about all her clients like you are family. Thank you Aubrey. I will definitely recommend her to everyone I know looking for the most badass attorney this side of the Mississippi.
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24 May, 2022 by Marissa stevens
Amazing! I had a long complicated case and she helped me quickly and got it resolved for me right away! So helpful and kind.
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11 May, 2022 by Julie miller
Aubrey is one awesome attorney! Her style of billing really makes it easy to budget for, without any hidden expenses, and her prowess in the courtroom is unmatched. She was able to help me with my case, not to mention finding a way to have it dismissed without anything being added to my record! 10 of 10 would recommend!!
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07 Apr, 2024 by Medina
Hank made something as sensitive and difficult as a divorce an easy and straight forward process. He listened to me, gave me honest and fair advice, and advocated for me throughout the whole process. Hank had my best interest at heart and this was evident from the beginning. I wholeheartedly trust Hank, and would recommend him to anyone in need of a lawyer. Hank constantly provided updates, and answered any questions I had happily. He was very easy to contact and hear back from promptly. Hank fights for his clients and handles your case efficiently. If I had to do my divorce process over again; the only thing I would change is reaching out to Hank sooner.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Taylor
I would suggest looking elsewhere! There are plenty of other GOOD attorneys out there. This is not one of them. Hired his services, and did nothing but put me in a hole of 5 mo. Couldn't remember my file, then charges you to re-review and consult. Never requested the Discovery from opposing counsel in 5mo time. Never special set our hearing, since most if not all divorces take 5hrs to litigate. So left this as an assigned trial which could and would be a continued roller-coaster of delays even getting a judge scheduled for 5 hrs in Multnomah County. Never relayed any information that should have been given to opposing counsel, asked if I was seeking retribution for being upset based on the opposing counsel parenting plan (very limited access to kids for no reason) which any judge would deny (verified this with another attorney) and then up and quit the firm at Goldberg Jones. Asking if I want to retain and asked for an addition $10K retainer. Ha! If you want to be dug into a hole than what is already a bad situation, then Hank is for you.
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19 Mar, 2022 by Chris
Hank without a doubt search the bar when it comes to being an advocate for fathers and men. My custody battle took two years due to the courts jerking us around. Hank never quit and fought tirelessly to and sure I got what I wanted. After a year and a half my ex finally signed over what I wanted, butwhen the courts decided to sit on the paperwork for almost a year they came back saying signatures were too old and we had to go to court. Then my ex refused to sign the papers. He never stopped fighting and standing up for me with the courts along with my ex. Every step of the way he had open communication with me, kept me in the loop every second, and when my head was spinning and stressing me out he always calmed me down and made sure I was thinking straight. Hank doesn’t treat you like a client, you’re not just a number to him, he treats you like a friend. He looks out for you to make sure you are protected and make sure you are doing good. If you’re looking for an attorney who is a bulldog, someone that will be extremely aggressive and get what you want, Hank is by far the one you want.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I cannot thank Bruce enough! It was a situation of what the police saw as the "victims" word and their word against my own, and fortunately Bruce and his team saw through the "victim" as well as the police report and realized the situation was more complicated than what the law was wanting to portray. I was arrested without cause when the call that got me wrongfully arrested was actually on my ex (the "victim" in some of the officers' eyes). Luckily, Bruce's team, the camera footage, the civilian who called in the incident as well as the pictures I had as proof of the abuse towards me that the "victim" did, helped us fight this (there is a lot more to this but that's a bare gist of it). If it weren't for Bruce, my Private Investigator and the rest of his team, I don't believe I would be in the situation I am now (a new lease on life) completely off of Probation and headed to a brighter future without my ex the "victim" to hinder mine and my son's life any longer. THANK YOU BRUCE!!! If it weren't for you I would more than likely be not only still dealing with all of this, although it is very possible I may also be in jail at this given time. I could sincerely give you a hug (with your permission of course) because you have lifted a huge weight off my shoulders and made it possible to be a successful mother making 6 figures a year now and finally able to put all of this behind me. Thank you, Thank You, THANK YOU!
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01 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
This lawyer,Bruce Tarbox,represented me about 5 years ago.I was charged with 4 criminal charges.2 were more serious and the other 2 was not.He didn't fully investigate my case like he should.Before my trial,he was working with prosecutors on a plea deal not consulting with me first.A few weeks later,he came to me with a plea deal he made with prosecutors. The deal was to plead guilty to 2 charges,spend 2 weeks in jail plus 3 years probation and they'll dropped the other 2 charges.Not knowing much about criminal law myself,the 2 charges that they're going to dropped was the 2 lesser serious ones.Considering I've been in the US over 20 years with no criminal record,he could've tell them to dropped all charges or go to trial where I have a huge chance of winning.He didn't do neither! Instead,he persuaded me to plead guilty and accept the deal because its a good deal! Smh!!! Also under Padilla law,all defense attorneys are required to advise their clients of immigration consequences and to help their clients avoid getting convicted of crimes which is deportable under immigration law! Mr.Tarbox never did any of that! And now I'm deported to my country! And when I was in the immigration detention center,I filed for post conviction relief and my post conviction lawyer confronted Mr.Tarbox to find out about my case and what happened? Mr.Tarbox was defensive and lied to my lawyer about it! Now I'm deported and I have 2 convictions on my record that I didn't do or guilty of!
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13 Jul, 2017 by Denise
I had a really great experience with Bruce. I must admit, I wasn't the "best" client about being responsive to his requests for info, but he always seemed to be on op of it. I believe I got the best outcome possible because of his representation
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Questions? We have answers

Top Questions to Ask a Lawyer

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?

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

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