Filter by

star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Kirk morcus
Very professional great Communication did a great job highly recommend Brian, honest hard-working got me what I deserved
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Jul, 2024 by Eli szorcsik
Brian and Molly are a great team! Couldn’t have made it through the whole process without them. Very knowledgeable would be an understatement. Im very happy with choosing them to help me on my case.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 May, 2024 by Troy
Mr. O'Neal seems very knowledgeable, however, my experience was not great. I submitted several documents prior to my first consultation the secretary failed to inform me that a piece of information was crucial in order for Mr. O'Neal to give me precise guidance to MY case. Instead we had a conversation based on GENERAL information. I have since submitted the documents he said he needed to have in order to speak about MY case specifically. I have sent three emails without a response.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2021 by John constantine
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Dec, 2020 by Rachiele custom sinks dino rachiele
Very good at communicating, very professional and results oriented. Very happy with this team.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2020 by Elite office
Me encanto el servicio de Heather. Muy eficiente y profesional. sin duda la volveria a contratar para cualquier problema legal.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Kirk morcus
Very professional great Communication did a great job highly recommend Brian, honest hard-working got me what I deserved
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Jul, 2024 by Eli szorcsik
Brian and Molly are a great team! Couldn’t have made it through the whole process without them. Very knowledgeable would be an understatement. Im very happy with choosing them to help me on my case.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Oct, 2023 by Lilian makar
I spent months looking for a Workers Comp Lawyer and I came across Brian’s page. He returned my call in no time and was extremely informative. Brian made sure that all my questions were answered, was very patient and thorough. I cannot thank you enough 🙏
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2021 by John constantine
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Dec, 2020 by Rachiele custom sinks dino rachiele
Very good at communicating, very professional and results oriented. Very happy with this team.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2020 by Elite office
Me encanto el servicio de Heather. Muy eficiente y profesional. sin duda la volveria a contratar para cualquier problema legal.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2021 by John constantine
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Dec, 2020 by Rachiele custom sinks dino rachiele
Very good at communicating, very professional and results oriented. Very happy with this team.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2020 by Elite office
Me encanto el servicio de Heather. Muy eficiente y profesional. sin duda la volveria a contratar para cualquier problema legal.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2021 by John constantine
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Dec, 2020 by Rachiele custom sinks dino rachiele
Very good at communicating, very professional and results oriented. Very happy with this team.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2020 by Elite office
Me encanto el servicio de Heather. Muy eficiente y profesional. sin duda la volveria a contratar para cualquier problema legal.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Jul, 2016 by Olan
Peggy assisted me and my Partner with our estate planning, and did not disappoint. She and her staff were extremely courteous and professional, and in the end provided us with comprehensive documents that were tailored to our specific needs. Highly recommended!!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2016 by Debbi
Ms. Hoyt is very kind and a good listener. She is very detail oriented and professional. I hired My. Hoyt for my estate planning and she exceeded my expectations.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
18 Feb, 2016 by Andy
Attorney Hoyt prepared our Estate documents. Her process was very thorough, ensuring that we clearly defined our estate wishes. She provided excellent counsel on the pros and cons of various options. The end product was complete and well-documented. We have retained Attorney Hoyt for ongoing estate counsel and for other legal matters.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Apr, 2024 by John ryan
Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2023 by Mihir shah
Rhett provided us a great experience in planning for the future. He was very straight forward and provided excellent guidance. I recommend him or any of the attorneys at the practice.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Nov, 2020 by Kristin kelch
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Jul, 2016 by George
Having recently move to Florida, we desired to have our Wills and other documents upgraded to conform to Florida requirements and our new situation. Randy quickly understood our needs and desires and at our second meeting did an excellent job of walking us through the documents, answering our questions and providing clarifications. It was a very informative and painless process.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Feb, 2016 by Lorri
I have used Randy as my estate attorney for over 10 years. Randy’s knowledge of trusts and wills made a complicated subject much easier to understand and create. Not only is he highly knowledgeable and dedicated, but caring and compassionate which is so important and appreciated in this sensitive matter. With his partner, Peggy Hoyt, he has created a practice filled with a knowledgeable and competent staff that is extremely friendly and helpful. Their annual estate review plan keeps me focused on maintaining my estate in a timely manner in response to changes in my life. I’d recommend him to anyone needing legal estate services.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Feb, 2016 by Dick
Randy prepared thorough packages for me and my wife's revocable trusts and keeps us updated with current changes in the law on an annual basis. He and his qualified partners and staff have become an extended family for us and contact with his office has always been a most pleasant and enlightening experience.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
27 Apr, 2015 by Kelley
We have used Michael for almost 20 years for both business and individual. Very are happy with the attention he gives and advise.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2015 by Christopher
I reached out to Mr. Presutti several years back; I was going through a divorce and things felt pretty bleak. Even though he did not specialize in family law he let me come in for a consultation, he was patient with me, very professional and thorough and was able to make me feel at ease and well taken care of. He helped me understand the process, the time frames involved, he helped me see “the big picture” and all of a sudden my problems seemed possible to overcome. Mr. Presutti has returned my phone calls on weekends more than once and he responds to my emails within twenty four hours. He has represented me in a couple of additional Real Estate and Living Trust issues over the years and the results have always been favorable His presentations to the judge were extremely well versed and given in a very strong professional manner, I could clearly see that the Judge respected him greatly. I feel very comfortable being represented by Mr. Presutti as I know he will fight and succeed in every aspect of the subject at hand, he is an extremely talented attorney, who takes each case to heart.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Jul, 2013 by Jerry
I was searching for an attorney to do some estate planning...but I was concerned about how much my particular situation might cost. Most of the attorneys gave me estimated costs for "typical" wills and trusts, but indicated that exact costs would depend on my particular situation. Michael Presutti was the only attorney that made me an offer over the phone that seemed more than fair. He offered to review my situation, determine what he believed was the best way forward, and to then give me a price to execute that approach....and he did all of this with no up front costs. This enabled me to make an informed "go - no go" decision without having a sizable amount of money already invested in a particular attorney. And his charges were exactly what he agreed to in advance. Further, because of the relationship Michael and I developed during this process, I convinced my parents to have Michael redo their trusts and wills as well. In summary, I'd highly recommend Michael Presutti for estate planning and have the upmost confidence in his integrity and trustworthiness.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Feb, 2018 by Tina
Beyond impressed with Minoru’s service. Not only did he act fast on a slander case he educated me with patience and understanding. Handled everything over the phone/email and pricing was very fair. highly rexommend.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Minoru responded quickly and authentically to all my requests and questions. He gave creative and careful advice to minimize rancor and antagonism, trying to keep our process moving forward rapidly and with proper protections for me. I would hire him again for any future needs.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Oct, 2017 by Polly
Min was outstanding. We did everything through e-mail and everything came through without any issues. He explained things to me so I could understand exactly what to do. He's a very professional person met him through my divorce Lawyer Donna. Which she referred me to him. Glad I went with Min that made the process go much smoothly...Thanks Min!!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
18 Jul, 2023 by Alex
If you’re looking for the Best Dui Lawyer look no further!!! Jason went above and beyond to make sure we got the verdict we wanted. Fair prices for his services. Extremely knowledgeable on the law, and works diligently in his field of work. Very impressed with the turn out of the situation. Jason keeps your best interest in mind, and doesn’t cut any corners on getting the job done.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Jun, 2023 by Kevin
Jason’s time is worth every penny spent! Great pricing & even better Legal Results! He took his time to use every legal source available to make sure we got the verdict we both wanted in my case! His skills are on point! Don’t doubt to hire this man! He’s very knowledgeable! & fair with his pricing!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 May, 2023 by Michael
It's really too bad I only get 4000 characters to write this review because I could pen a novel on what this dude did for me. Here's a short version: I got into trouble in Daytona beach in 2021 and was introduced through another attorney, Jason Cameron came to meet me at the jail and listened to my version of events, took his notes, and laid out what he expected to be the course of action on the prosecutions angle, said not to worry about it he'd be in touch as he said goodbye and set about what he does...went to work. After our preliminary meeting he just kind of drops off, disappears, and as weeks go by I'm starting to think "oh man, did I pick the wrong guy", he popped in to the jail the day before our next hearing and told me a little of what he'd been doing in the case and what to expect in the coming hearing and, again, not to worry. The next morning this guy walks in the courtroom with a stack of paper about 4 inches thick and when he gets up to speak spends the first half hour walking a circuit, peeling off a piece of paper and turning to the state's attorney, "this is for you" and your honor may I approach the bench?", repeating this, going round and round until dispensing that whole stack . I don't know what the prep time was but this guy spent hours just establishing what were to be the rules of play if we're moving forward, almost like "okay if we're really going to do this, then you're going to have to do it clean", we were, they didn't, and he was ready. At every little detour and speed bump, and there were plenty, a week before jury selection they actually shipped me off to another county in attempts to get me to plea to violating probation before I'd been convicted of the charge causing the violation, then when I wouldn't they left me there to sit through several more months missing court hearings and to just stew. Upon my return to Volusia and meeting with Jason the morning of jury selection he gave me a small crash course on picking a jury and then asks for my input, if you see something about someone that catches your eye , let me know. I tried to be kind of hands off because what do I know about all this, "I'll defer to your better judgement", he wouldn't go for that, as much as he's the pro here, he still encouraged every input through the whole show. On the day of trial, when the state's attorneys office brought in four more attorneys to help with prosecution, for defense there was Jason. I think its really important to note too, that through this entire series, that never once did he intimate that we could lose this thing. There was one option here, no "if we" or "we might" win, just "when we win", he was on task and charging straight ahead. Now, make no mistake I don't want to distort his character or demeanor, there's no arrogance or pretension. This dudes not like that, there's right and wrong and Jason standing slap between the two. From day one, he sat and really listened to what I had to say taking what I said while comparing it to the documents against me, taking his inferences from all of it and plotting his course. I was found not guilty by a jury after 13 hours sitting in a chair watching a team of people attempt to weave a story where there wasn't one, simply because the win was more important than the truth, and there's not a doubt in my mind that if I hadn't had Jason representing me I'd be in prison today! In a time where so many attorneys are "cookie-cutter", going through the motions, and "I'll get ya the best deal I can", Jason Cameron does not come from, doesn't fit that mold. This guy is a credit to his craft, he's not looking to get you a deal and move on to the next client, when he tells you he works for you he does just that. He worked his a** off defending this case and I couldn't have gotten a more desirable outcome with anyone else whatever their rate.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Megan has handled several real estate matters for me. She is honest, prompt and professional. I definitley plan on using her in the future.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
I can honestly say Megan went so far above and beyond her duties. She saved a short sale transaction, she did this by going directly to the condominium manager to negotiate a payoff thereby saving the seller in paying 2500.00 in past due fees. The condo attorneys refused to negotiate. Take into account she actually works for the buyer! Amazing job. She showed my sellers attorney what it really takes to be good.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
08 Dec, 2013 by Joe
I was in 2 automobile crashes in 2011, neither of which were my fault. Both parties were found at fault. I was injured in both of them, but the second was much more serious. I found Don by searching on the web. There was no way I wanted to hire one of the attorneys who inundate our airwaves. Don's site is very informative and easy to understand. After talking with him after my first accident, I was impressed that he does virtually everything himself. He did a wonderful job taking care of everything. I had only been released from my accident 2 weeks when I was struck by a car that ran a red light. I again called Don to represent me. I won't go into any details of injury or settlement, but I do want to say how pleased I was with Don. He stayed on top of things and answered my emails promptly. He would even answer if he was out of town to let me know he got my message and would get back to me about an issue as soon as he could. What else can I say? If you need a personal injury attorney, Don Harvey will exceed your expectations. I hope I never need an attorney again, but if I do, Don will be my only choice.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 May, 2013 by Patricia
Mr Harvey has been a great help in resolving a very difficult matter. He is candid and knowledgeable and offers sound advice. I found him to be trustworthy and professional and would recommend him without hesitation. If I ever have another legal problem, I will call upon him.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
10 Jun, 2015 by Chuck
Mr. Peppler and his staff handled my case amazingly. I am extremely happy with the work he did for me. He was responsive, prompt and caring in my divorce case. He listened carefully to my needs and tailored his services to what I wanted. He moved quickly for me, which was a huge help in my situation and offered great guidance to me along the way. I hope that I don't need a lawyer's services again but if I do, I will most definitely use Mr. Peppler and will recommend him to all my friends and family if they ever need a lawyer.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Apr, 2015 by Paul
My case was complicated by my nationality and an impending trip abroad. Tom was fantastic in ensuring that I possessed the correct documents to account for any eventuality, protecting my children, the subjects of a custody case and my wife. With the correct will(s) in place I travelled, returned safely but with assurance and attended the subsequent custody hearing. I was awarded full custody. Subsequently my wife applied for and was granted adoptive parent status for both children and became their legal mother. Tom was fundamental to establishing my assurance and our success in establishing a cohesive and stong future for the children. I highly recommend his (new? Congrats, Tom!) firm with him at the helm.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
24 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Took the time to read all of the lines of pertaining documents - not just a glance or review. Explained clauses, and highlighted phrases of impact.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Apr, 2016 by Tom
Balls to the wall. He treated my money like it was his money. When I called he called me back now. Best Lawyer I have ever dealt with. He is a pro. Tom W
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2021 by Marina
Attorney Torres helped us with our estate papers. He is honest, reliable and is in consistent in his work. We had a wonderful experience. He even went above and beyond to help us.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
11 Apr, 2024 by Katie smith
Attorney was available upon call!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Mar, 2022 by Aleah hansen
Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Dec, 2021 by Pam
Mr. Leitch is a rare find. He’s an excellent lawyer who has helped us with several legal issues over the years. Always providing excellent service. I strongly recommend having Mr. Leitch review what ever legal needs you have. If it is something he cannot assist with he will give the best advice of what to do or where to go next. He is very personable easy to talk to.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
12 Apr, 2024 by Jesenko plecic
Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Sep, 2023 by T. eugene chambers, jr
As has always been the case, Randy Bryan handled our estate needs professionally and to the highest standards. He makes the legal jargon clear and easy to understand and does this with kindness and empathy. This is our second visit to this office and we will always count on them to handle any needs we have in the future. Thank you, Randy.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Sep, 2023 by Nancy harmon
Last year my neighbor and friend, recently deceased, based upon my recommendation hired Peggy Hoyt to create a Pet Trust to provide her 24+- horse located in Wisconsin, dog and 4 cats (located in Florida) care after she died, as part of her will. I was thrilled that my neighbor took my advice and hired Peggy Hoyt. This pet trust assures that funds from her estate have been set aside to provide feed and other needs for her animals. Additionally, my neighbor and friend, as part of a life estate agreement was verbally guaranteed her horses could remain on the property until they died. At this time, all horses have care and are fat and happy grazing every day, on the land they were promised for life. I am confident, my friend and neighbor made the right decision when she hired Peggy and now that the Probate for her estate has been approved and after legal issues soon to be resolved, plans for the lifetime care of the horses will be finalized.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
I met Ms. Howeller in 2017, when I was in dire need of an attorney to represent me on an existing family law matter. She was recommended to me by a law professor who was Ms. Howeller’s former colleague. I will forever be grateful to Ms. Howeller for her representation of me. Most family law cases are over in a few years, but in my case, what started as a paternity case in 2003 to relocate out of state with my toddler soon became nothing short of a long nightmare. When I met Ms. Howeller, I felt immense hope and I will forever be grateful to her for this. Fast forward to now, my son is 20 years old. This paternity case is on appeal regarding child-support related rulings. In retaliation of Ms. Howeller’s representation of me, my son’s father has been waging personal attacks towards Ms. Howeller. No attorney should be subjected to bullying! Thank you Ms. Howeller for all your hard work! You are truly an amazing attorney.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
31 Jul, 2019 by Jeff
Sara is by far the best attorney I have used. Excellent results, responds to requests faster than Jimmy Johns can bring you a sub. Highly recommend.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Besides being logical and even tempered she is knowledgeable and caring and makes any legal issues a lot less stressful to deal with. I would recommend her to anyone i any matter in a heartbeat! Thank you Sara!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
09 Feb, 2021 by Jessica
My family and I hired Michelle to help us through my mother's estate. When my father died years prior, we didn't have to do anything because everything went to my mom, so this was all completely new to us. We have heard horror stories about probate, but Michelle was great. She really helped to explain the process to all of us and every time we had a question, she was prompt, polite and explained everything thoroughly and in a way that was easy to understand. We never felt rushed when talking to Michelle. She made sure we were kept in the loop throughout the whole estate. Her paralegal Patti was also fantastic! Michelle and her office made probate as painless as possible. I would highly recommend working with her and the Hoyt & Bryan office!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Jul, 2020 by Pat
My Husband and I hired Michelle to review our old estate plan and update it. Michelle took the time to explain the process thoroughly and answered all of our questions (some multiple times) to ensure that we understand how everything worked. She was such a pleasure to work with that when my sister passed away the next year, we went back to Michelle to handle her estate. Michelle again took as much time as we needed to explain the probate process and helped my siblings and I through it every step of the way. Michelle and her team were excellent. I have recommended her to several friends, and they have all been very pleased with Michelle's patient and kind attitude, and thoroughness with helping them through the estate planning/probate process.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2019 by Florine
I needed an attorney to create a Power of Attorney as well as other legal matters regarding my Estate. Michelle Adams was recommended to me by my daughter. Since my husband passed away, I had never met with an attorney and didn't think I would be able to understand the process. I was wrong. Ms Adams was the perfect person to help. She was very knowledgeable regarding Estate planning and took the time to explain in detail exactly what I needed to protect me and my children in the event something were to happen to me. She even offered to meet with my children to review the details of the plan. Ms Adam's knowledge, kindness and extreme patience made this entire process easy. Thank you Michelle!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
26 Nov, 2018 by Jen
Ms Claude represented my mother for over 15 years. Her estate planning advice left her heirs in a legal quagmire. What should have been a simple trust is now being litigated by the trustee and the beneficiaries have been left holding the financial bag.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
02 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Damaris helped me with my will about five years ago, so when I was ready to invest in a home for my disabled son, I contacted her. She gave me a free consult, making recommendations. She also gave me a referral for someone knowledgeable about SSDI to help me with setting up an ABLE account or to figure out how to best invest so my disabled son would be cared for when I die. I will hire her once we get the house to set up a will for my son.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Dec, 2010 by Sherrie
After contacting by phone several attorneys over the legality of issues and how to proceed., one gave me incorrect information regarding the legality of a bogus lien..two were quiet, not knowing any legal precedence, and two approved of the Medicaid fraud committed and the bogus lien.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 May, 2024 by Abigail faulkner
Andrew was phenomenal and helpful! One of the best customer service attitudes I’ve seen in a long time.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Mar, 2012 by Terri
I hired Mr.Kaplan to handle a short sale on a property. Mr. Kaplan has the girls in his office handle ALL negotiations (qualified or not). The bank we were dealing with was very uncooperative and in hindsight I believe in part because they always had to deal with a girl in this office (not a para leagal) for all contact. Even when the bank specifically said they did not wish to speak to her anymore, Mr. Kaplan did not return their calls himself. I went into his office and requested Mr. Kaplan to make a phone call personally to the bank, the bank would not talk to his secretary any longer, and he agreed to make the call. Two days later he sent me an email saying that he defers all negotiations in his office to the girls that work for him and he belives that if he personally made a call on my behalf it would not make any difference. Mr. Kaplan had our case for 6 months and NEVER made a single call or represented our case himself - even when he was specifically asked to to so. Do not waste your time with this firm, you think you are paying an attorney to represent you when, in fact, you are just hiring a secretary for representaton.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2019 by Alper
In 2014 i was extradited from other countru to orlando to prosecuted in federal court. This man didnot show my case discovery to me and said me i would get 3-4 years and advice me to get plea deal with goverment. And i did after plea deal , i only saw him at sentencing court.and while argument about my sentence , jugde made mistake and the lawyer only listened him, but thanx god prosecutor asked the judge to correct the mistake. Otherwise i could get 14 years. And judge give me 9 years.
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

Top Questions to Ask a Lawyer

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?

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

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