Filter by

star star star star star
21 Mar, 2024 by Vinny
I'm not even sure where to start. There aren't many people that are experts in probate/estate law. Nathan Krogh is however one of those people. I watched Nathan single-handedly tackled a complicated case for me and he did an amazing job. Which in the end meant a victory for me. From my perspective Nathan is a quintessential professional. He did everything right in my book. Not just law knowledge which seemed endless but his amazing ability to disassemble all the complicated pieces and explain it in simple terms that I could easily understand. He also has extensive experience in his field. Nathan did everything on time or before the deadline we agreed on. He picked up the phone when I called or called me right back if he wasn't in the office when I left a message. He answered all my emails in a timely manner PLUS he's a hockey player and a hockey dad. If ever I need professional probate/estate law assistance Nathan is the only place I'll go and I will recommend him to anyone that asks me. Vinny Heinz
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
01 Jan, 2024 by Roy and marion
Nathan Krogh, of Krogh Law Firm, P.A., is a great attorney! He is competent and attentive. He worked with us on setting up an LLC and purchase a commercial building. It was a complicated situation, but he made everything easy for us. His response time to our questions was incredible, and his fees are reasonable! Moving forward, we will be using Nathan for our real estate, probate, and estate planning. He has earned our trust!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
02 Nov, 2022 by Paulette
We inherited real estate and had been told by a real estate agent, 2 different lawyers and an employee of a title company, that Probate Court would be necessary to transfer the property title. Frankly I was nervous! One of Nathan's expertise is in the area of real estate law, and with his knowledge of the law he is amazing. Nathan is a great listener, and he quickly assured us that probate would NOT be necessary. He then proceeded with examples (in lay terms) the next steps necessary for title and sale. Only a small percent of lawyers in Minnesota are Board Certified Real Property Law Specialists; we hired him, and he made our lives much easier. Without hesitation, we would definitely recommend Krogh Law Firm in Roseville, Minnesota.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
20 Dec, 2023 by Jerry
Dan handled my case with true professionalism ,in a timely manner, and with all the knowledge that was necessary for me to achieve a positive outcome.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Nov, 2023 by Ron
On 11/29/2023Dan and I went to the Washington county courthouse to do a jury trial for two citations.One for a Owi and the other for driving with a blood alcohol of .145. Dan did an outstanding job, and the verdict came back not guilty on both counts . if you want a lawyer, that knows the laws and police procedures better than the police . Hire Dan Skarie
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I have never had a lawyer before this incident but I recommend attorney Daniel Skarie to anyone dealing with an OWI. After blowing a .16, Skarie was able to lower my sentence to under .15. With doing this, I no longer need a breathalyzer in my car.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
31 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Do not let insurance companies bully you. You can consult/hire any lawyer, but having the right lawyer(s) to stand your ground will give you a chance at throwing a right hook at the insurance companies and potentially win the case with an uppercut. We have completely annihilated the defense. From my experience, I’d advise that you give 100% and ask questions. The right lawyer will and should always give you his honest opinion. I’ve worked hard with my lawyers for 4 years, and even though there were little to see in those 4 years, the end result was worth the battle.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 Jul, 2021 by Carl
He helped me with an auto accident claim with a difficult insurance company. His reviewing the facts of the accident and his preparation of the case were excellent as well as being in constant contact with me during the process. He is very knowledgeable about the laws when I was confused how to/if i could proceed. He settled with more success than I expected. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing services
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
31 May, 2021 by Leslee
Mr. Palmer is an excellent lawyer. He has helped me navigate a sometimes confusing and daunting process (personal injury auto accident case) with knowledge and skill. He has worked hard on my case, and communicated in a timely fashion. I will recommend him to others in the same situation who need a quality attorney to help them with their personal injury case.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Mar, 2018 by Teneeshia
John was very professional. He explained the process thoroughly and responded to my inquiries in a timely fashion. He has a great sense of humor which helped ease the process. His costs are not outrageous like some lawyers are as well! I’m very happy with my results and more happy that I’m divorced.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Oct, 2017 by Jennifer
John was extremely thorough, dedicated and did exactly what he said he would do. I definitely recommend him!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
14 Feb, 2017 by Steve a.
My case was a little different being that myself and my soon to be X had most items in our settlement already negotiated (we were planning on filing ourselves). Mr Guzik made sure that the spirit of this agreement was protected. If I had not had him represent me I would have left myself open to future problems beyond what I have agreed to today. Mr. Guzik's staff is very personable and professional and Brian (sorry Brian I did not catch your last name - my apologies) was sure to make sure any questions or contact that I needed with Mr. Guzik was handled appropriately and in a very timely fashion. This is a top notch operation.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
08 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Whelpley is a very good attorney who is full of knowledge in family law filed , and his high writing skills in law language that makes divorce case become simple and easy. Thanks ! Mr. Whelpley !
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
02 Mar, 2016 by Jenny and john
My husband and I have been seeking for the right advice on our complicated and very disturbing case for the parenting time and the child support matter for my 11 year old son. The final order that we've received recently has quiet a few errors and an unexpected order from the judge for my summer parenting time with my son, that we both were extremely dismayed due to the time and enormous financial pressure imposed on us after a long and seemingly very biased procedures with the court. After talking to dozens of laywers including superlaywers in Minnesota, out of desperation, I looked at AVVO site one more time, and Mr. Whelpley caught my eyes with his 40 years of experiences in various fields of expertise. I called him hoping that he would be different from all the other laywers who gave me the same brief advice. Mr. Whelpley, not only gave us the entirely different approach from all other lawyers, but also was more than willling to listen to me and talk to me way longer than I usually expect from lawyers in general for an initial consulation. He did not push me timewise nor was reluctant to give me the poignant reality check on the judge(s) in a very calming way and on how I should proceed when facing a difficult situations with a judge. His advise was very wise, calming, and also very 'strategic'. His military background also helped us a lot due to the unique situation that we are in as a military family, which was completely ignored by the court. Mr. Whelpley was the only lawyer who was more than willing to listen to you and give you the new perspective on your case WITHOUT hurrying you to "finish-the-phone-call-and-hire-the-lawyer(me)-immediately-if-you-want-to-talk-more" kind of way. Especially if you are being pushed in time, feeling discriminated or going through any bias, Mr. Whepley is the one that you want to talk to and work with. HE IS DIFFERENT, WISE, and STRATEGIC.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2015 by Kristy
Jim Whelpley is a very good Bankruptcy Attorney. It is definitely his calling! During the process of my filing Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, there was a point where I was feeling very sad and over-whelmed and I started to cry. Jim gave me a book to read that listed the names of people throughout history and their lives who had filed bankruptcy (many of these people were people we admire even today!). That book made me feel a lot better! I also appreciated Jim's sense of humor. He has kind of a dry sense of humor (sort of like Johnny Carson) which is very funny and very often helped to lighten the mood. Jim has definitely found his "niche" as a Bankruptcy Attorney, and I am grateful for his expertise in helping me find a peaceful life!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
23 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Denise was one of the most helpful people when it came to my accident. The Insurance companies were pushing to get things settled as soon as possible. Between her knowledge and the needed information, I received a better settlement than I thought possible. Denise is highly knowledgeable about what has to be done and the time frame. THANK YOU so much, Denise, for everything!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Jan, 2021 by Jon
I took the advice of a friend to meet with Denise Fullerton at Fullerton Law. I was immediately impressed with her knowledge of the process, what to expect from the insurance companies, and how she could support me in receiving the care that I needed for some of the lasting effects from a car accident. And she was there every step of the way. Denise was prompt at answering our questions. When the insurance companies challenged some treatment and medical device expenses, Denice was an incredible advocate and fierce defender on my behalf. It is clear that without her expertise I would have been stuck with an impossible heap of medical bills. Thanks to Denise we avoided that crisis entirely. I will always be grateful for her tireless effort, and most certainly will recommend her to anyone needing an excellent lawyer.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Sep, 2019 by Jamie
Denise is an excellent option for personal injury representation. She is kind, professional and organized. She handled all the details of my case in a way that alleviated the stress for me and allowed me to focus on healing from my injuries from the accident. I would recommend her to anyone.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2023 by Meriem leclair
Miss Carrie is one of the best lawyers. Organized, Kind, patient, and ready to serve anyone who is struggling despite their limits. A true advocate for human rights.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Nov, 2022 by M khan
Attorney Carrie Peltier is a great lawyer. My encounter with her was about an Immigration case and I must admit she was thorough, thoughtful and confident. I liked the fact that she informed us about an area where she had to refer to give a definitive answer, this demonstrates her honesty and professionalism. Overall, I think she is worth the trust.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2021 by Lovelyse love
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Aug, 2008 by Anonymous
I have had a great experience with Michael, and I cannot wait to recommend him to anyone seeking a defense attorney in his areas of specialty, especially in immigration and discrimination cases. Michael not only takes the time to understand the client's specific problem, but carefully explains the legal options and gives a realistic prediction of the road ahead. He is easy to get a hold of, and even when you cannot reach him, he always returns calls and responds to messages left for him. He is the first attorney I would recommend to anyone seeking a fedense attorney.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Aug, 2008 by Anonymous
I would recommend this Attorney for the following reasons listed above. Trustworthy, responsive, knowledgeable and informative.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2008 by Kevin
I was extremely satisfied with the services I received from Mike and I would greatly recomment him anytime
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
31 Jan, 2020 by Heather schueller
Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Mar, 2017 by Dennis keskin
I was referred to Mr Dan Kufus for estate planning. Mr Kufus prepared the necessary documents exceptionally and in timely matter. Later, I felt the need of legal assistance due to my recently changed family matters in the summer of 2016. I consulted him about my recent needs in making modification to my child support payments and parental rights. Mr Kufus worked with me patiently while he was getting to know my hard headed personality. Mr. Kufus guided me through the legal system with positive results. I can confidently say, I wish I had met him earlier, especially during my divorce. That was the time I felt all alone when I was trying to save what was left from my marriage, My beloved children. When the odds were all against me and all that mattered to others was just money and materialistic values, I wish Mr. Kufus was beside me legally protecting and defending what was left from my family. He has been fair and just. I appreciate everything he has done for me. Contact him when you feel all alone in your legal battle in saving and defending what is left from your family. I know he will be there for you strong, fair and just.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
13 Mar, 2015 by Jason
I filed bankruptcy and Dan helped every step of the way. I was really worried before the bankruptcy but Dan detailed every step and was readily available for any assistance I needed. After bankruptcy Dan has helped me with every question I have had. Dan's was cheaper than any of the lawyers I called and representation wasincluded Thanks Dan!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Oct, 2013 by Jason
Great bankruptcy attorney. Well informed staff and cared about the outcome of my case.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Jul, 2017 by Cyndi
Young motivated attorney, humble and understanding worked with me 100% of the way through a horrible and embarrassing foreclosure action. I credit Mr. Kirscher with saving my home and my life! He is the best attorney I have ever hired, he came to my home as I am disabled and I recommend him to anyone and everyone who wants to resolve any type of legal situation. Bradley Kirscher is the best!!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2014 by Eric
He is very down-to-Earth and easy to talk to. He has a wide array of knowledge and has practiced in many different locations giving him different perspectives geographically. I have used him for corporate, debt and criminal law and I was happy with the results as were the clients I referred to him.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
31 Mar, 2015 by Frank
Jane handled all of our estate documents including will, living will, healthcare directives, etc. This was in preparation for the guardianship of our son. We have also used her for some business advice. Everything was done professionally and she made sure to take time with us to ensure that we understood the information she was providing. If Jane doesn't have the exact information you need, she works very hard to get that information and explain it in terms that everyone can understand.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
08 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
After an incident at work, involving a co-worker. Melody used her skills to help me come up with a professional itemized list for the cost of the repairs to a bicycle trailer! Very satisfied with the results.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Greg has helped me on two cases now and I cannot give a more glowing recommendation. He has been very easy to work with, knows his stuff and has a great deal of respect within the field.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
26 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Upon completion of the bar, Ms. Burton has been nothing short of dedicated to her trade. Her skill sets are wide and varied and I can earnestly recommend her in any professional setting, be it complex immigration work, personal injury, mediation, or in my matter (pre-nuptials), Ms. Burton always stands above the rest in terms of honesty, and forthrightness. I felt, at the time, that I was afforded 100% of her focus, realizing obviously that she was pursuing more than one client. There was always time for my case. But while working together, it was as if I were her only client. And that feeling of importance is irreplaceable. I highly recommend.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
08 Nov, 2022 by Mak
Attorney Carrie Peltier is a great lawyer. My discussion with her was about an Immigration case and I must admit she was thorough, thoughtful, and confident. I liked the fact that she informed us about an area where she had to refer to give a definitive answer, this demonstrates her honesty and professionalism. Overall, I think she is worth the trust.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
23 Mar, 2021 by Daniel
I have worked with David several times! He is very knowledgeable, professional,and very easy to work with! I would highly recommend his firm!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Wulff is a very good worker's compensation lawyer. He is knowledgeable, dependable, experienced and authoritative, which are all great characteristics of a lawyer. I would recommend him to anyone!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
01 Aug, 2020 by John
I recently used the services of Attorney Daniel McGuire during a Landlord Tenant dispute. Mr. McGuire accepted me as a client on short notice and served as an excellent representative throughout my case. Mr. McGuire was a skilled negotiator and provided a fair settlement without moving to trial therefore avoiding further expense. I may obtain Mr. McGuire’s services in the future if needed. His fees are very reasonable and fair. Mr McGuire was available to answer my questions quickly and accurately.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
31 Jan, 2020 by Heather schueller
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2024 by Stephen payne
Easy to find Co-working space for signing all your estate planning forms. Goodly advice when drawing up a will/trust. Well worth "the price of admission" sort speak. None of your questions will 'stump' her.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2024 by Debra peterson
Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Sep, 2024 by Joanne phillips
Kate was a pleasure to work with. She took the time to answer my questions and did a very thorough job. I highly recommend her.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
14 Nov, 2023 by Ali osman
I had a tax situation which I tried to find help in resolving. I was in debt of $84,000 to the IRS. I found many companies who took a retainer and did absolutely nothing for me except take my money. I tried other supposed reputable sources who again were useless. Finally, My accountant recommended Wildes Law Firm, ( Tax Tiger of Minnesota) so I was skeptical, but saw they had great reviews, so I arranged for the free initial meeting. I met with them and they were terrific. They, at first recommended I try to resolve the situation myself since I had some knowledge and that they didn't want to take my money unless I absolutely felt that I wanted their help. They spent a lot of time answering my questions so I decided to let them help me. All through the process, they were patient, professional and knowledgeable answering my concerns about the process. Because of their knowledge, expertise and experience, my tax issue, which had caused me much anxiety was resolved with the very best outcome possible. Thank you again I am finally free.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Jul, 2023 by Abdi guulwade
I could give them more than five stars ⭐️ they helped me IRS case When I received a letter from IRS it was stressful but after I contacted wildes at law Especially Mr.matt I got helpful and now I’m happy,I recommend you to contact this officer You will get help like me Thank you.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 May, 2023 by Tanner seymour
Exceptional representation and professional service. All staff was really approachable and
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Ed maranda
John is incredible. My family is forever grateful. Ed Maranda
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2024 by Adeyosola ogunboye
A friendly firm that empathizes with their clients. Their approach hinges on integrity and mindset of possibilities.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2024 by Linda wedell mulhern
I would like to thank the Orchard Law Firm, PLLC for helping us settle our mother’s estate. I found them professional and easy to work with during the process. They were patient and professional with an heir that had unreasonable expectations, was uncooperative, consistently missed deadlines and would deviate from the will’s instructions. They had the heart of a teacher guiding this heir, explaining the laws relative to the will. Lastly, they did an excellent job cooperating with a law firm in South Dakota to manage a complex real estate transaction.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Ed maranda
John is incredible. My family is forever grateful. Ed Maranda
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2024 by Adeyosola ogunboye
A friendly firm that empathizes with their clients. Their approach hinges on integrity and mindset of possibilities.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2024 by Linda wedell mulhern
I would like to thank the Orchard Law Firm, PLLC for helping us settle our mother’s estate. I found them professional and easy to work with during the process. They were patient and professional with an heir that had unreasonable expectations, was uncooperative, consistently missed deadlines and would deviate from the will’s instructions. They had the heart of a teacher guiding this heir, explaining the laws relative to the will. Lastly, they did an excellent job cooperating with a law firm in South Dakota to manage a complex real estate transaction.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Ed maranda
John is incredible. My family is forever grateful. Ed Maranda
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2024 by Adeyosola ogunboye
A friendly firm that empathizes with their clients. Their approach hinges on integrity and mindset of possibilities.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2024 by Linda wedell mulhern
I would like to thank the Orchard Law Firm, PLLC for helping us settle our mother’s estate. I found them professional and easy to work with during the process. They were patient and professional with an heir that had unreasonable expectations, was uncooperative, consistently missed deadlines and would deviate from the will’s instructions. They had the heart of a teacher guiding this heir, explaining the laws relative to the will. Lastly, they did an excellent job cooperating with a law firm in South Dakota to manage a complex real estate transaction.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Ed maranda
John is incredible. My family is forever grateful. Ed Maranda
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2024 by Adeyosola ogunboye
A friendly firm that empathizes with their clients. Their approach hinges on integrity and mindset of possibilities.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2024 by Linda wedell mulhern
I would like to thank the Orchard Law Firm, PLLC for helping us settle our mother’s estate. I found them professional and easy to work with during the process. They were patient and professional with an heir that had unreasonable expectations, was uncooperative, consistently missed deadlines and would deviate from the will’s instructions. They had the heart of a teacher guiding this heir, explaining the laws relative to the will. Lastly, they did an excellent job cooperating with a law firm in South Dakota to manage a complex real estate transaction.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Ed maranda
John is incredible. My family is forever grateful. Ed Maranda
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2024 by Adeyosola ogunboye
A friendly firm that empathizes with their clients. Their approach hinges on integrity and mindset of possibilities.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2024 by Linda wedell mulhern
I would like to thank the Orchard Law Firm, PLLC for helping us settle our mother’s estate. I found them professional and easy to work with during the process. They were patient and professional with an heir that had unreasonable expectations, was uncooperative, consistently missed deadlines and would deviate from the will’s instructions. They had the heart of a teacher guiding this heir, explaining the laws relative to the will. Lastly, they did an excellent job cooperating with a law firm in South Dakota to manage a complex real estate transaction.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Ed maranda
John is incredible. My family is forever grateful. Ed Maranda
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2024 by Adeyosola ogunboye
A friendly firm that empathizes with their clients. Their approach hinges on integrity and mindset of possibilities.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2024 by Linda wedell mulhern
I would like to thank the Orchard Law Firm, PLLC for helping us settle our mother’s estate. I found them professional and easy to work with during the process. They were patient and professional with an heir that had unreasonable expectations, was uncooperative, consistently missed deadlines and would deviate from the will’s instructions. They had the heart of a teacher guiding this heir, explaining the laws relative to the will. Lastly, they did an excellent job cooperating with a law firm in South Dakota to manage a complex real estate transaction.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Ed maranda
John is incredible. My family is forever grateful. Ed Maranda
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2024 by Adeyosola ogunboye
A friendly firm that empathizes with their clients. Their approach hinges on integrity and mindset of possibilities.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2024 by Linda wedell mulhern
I would like to thank the Orchard Law Firm, PLLC for helping us settle our mother’s estate. I found them professional and easy to work with during the process. They were patient and professional with an heir that had unreasonable expectations, was uncooperative, consistently missed deadlines and would deviate from the will’s instructions. They had the heart of a teacher guiding this heir, explaining the laws relative to the will. Lastly, they did an excellent job cooperating with a law firm in South Dakota to manage a complex real estate transaction.
Read more 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