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25 Feb, 2019 by Barbie
John guided us through the entire process and made what seemed like a complicated process very easy. We now have detailed and documented plans that will provide clear direction for our family and peace of mind for us.
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19 Mar, 2018 by Matthew
John Gavin defended me wheunexpectedly faced a list of charges after staying in Red Wing with a younger sibling. I had driven several hours to stay with him at his request in order to drive him to and from work over the weekend after Thanksgiving. He asked me to keep it a secret that I was doing this favor for him because he didn't want others to know he had lost his driving privileges due to being arrested for DWI. In typical fashion, he treated me very poorly and acted as if my presence was somehow inconveniencing him, until I confronted him for his ungrateful attitude and overall self-absorption, and how it had strained our relationship, and things came to a head with an argument, followed by me leaving and driving home in the early morning hours. In an effort to harm me, he called the police and claimed I had assaulted him as well as say a laundry list of very alarming and disturbing things that I did not say. This lead to me being taking out of my bed back home, taken into custody, riding cuffed in the back of a squad car for over an hour, and then being arrested and booked for domestic assault, fifth degree assault, destruction of property, and disorderly conduct......making my brother's attempt to spite me by calling the police and lying and creating false claims proving to be quite successful. John Gavin went to work and displayed his effectiveness right away by getting me out of jail that morning on my recognizance. I was extremely worried about the false charges sticking and their effects affecting my ability for employment, and as someone that's an avid hunter, my ability to possess or own a firearm. I'll never forget Mr. Gavin looking me straight in the eye and telling me that he was going to make sure I wasn't going to be found guilty of something I didn't do. I had an offer for employment pending on the outcome of these charges. It was imperative that my case be resolved as expedient as possible; and with the desired outcome in order to start working at the new position that was a significant opportunity for me. In short, my life moving forward as I knew it was on the line----the ability to be financially solvent from earning a living working in my chosen career, while also being able to enjoy the pastime I cherish with friends and family, were literally hanging in the balance with their fate determined by whether or not I could successfully be cleared of the more severe charges. That's what I had at stake and put into Mr. Gavin's hands as the attorney for my legal defense. John Gavin was able to successfully get me a plea agreement completed at the earliest possible chance I had for one, at the pre-trial hearing. Not only did he get the two more serious charges dismissed that were imperative to me I wasn't convicted of, he got all of them dismissed in exchange for pleading guilty to a disorderly conduct, paying a $50 fine, serving a day in jail with the few hours spent there from my arrest credited as that full day already served, and that's it....that's all I ended up with....no probation....nothing else. I paid the $50 fine and court admin fee on my way out the door and that was that---a possible nightmare scenario gone, totally averted, and I walked out the door with it being over and not having to think or worry about any further stipulation or detail interfering with my life and reminding me of a very unfortunate night that I just wanted to be able able to forget that I now could... All thanks to John Gavin. ----resulting in it not being possible that I could be any happier with Mr. Gavin's work and professionalism.  I cannot imagine there being an attorney that exists that could have done a better job, and thus one that I would reccomend higher than John Gavin.
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03 Jul, 2012 by Dan
Sarah handled my divorce. I was very displeased with my 1st divorce attorney and Sarah did an amazing job. She is a young attorney but worked very hard for me as a client.
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13 Aug, 2020 by Brooke andersoon
Paul was the best decision we made on a very overwhelming case. He's a great lawyer and very personable, very professional and gets the job done.
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13 May, 2021 by Joe bezdicek
I hired Paul when the Government put a forfeiture of $24,000. Paul and his team help me get the money back. I was able to continue my personal business with Mexico. Paul did a great job.
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14 Dec, 2020 by Yussufu
Me. Donahue is an excellent lawyer who puts his clients first. He represented me in a criminal case last year and won the case for me.
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13 Dec, 2017 by Miraz
He didn't charge me on an hourly basis just to talk to him. He doesn't pretend to know something even if a question is asked that is in his field. He does his due diligence the right away. If he didn't offer a payment plan for me, I would not have been able to prepare a strong political asylum case. He is not only smart, he is kind, and he is doing this job to help people with immigration issues and needs. There are many little things about this guy I have noticed from day 1 that added up, e.g., when he saw a young couple with a crying kid was very confused when they came to an immigration field office, Attorney Kevin Heinz shared his mindset about that couple and in general. He told me that he wished that he could help everyone like them. He is truly a good guy. He doesn't do fake talks and smiles, so if you need someone who you want to get your stuff done the right away with great attention to detail, and who's not going to talk to you too nice to pretend everything is okay, this is your attorney. Most immigration lawyers I have come across are selfish and you need money to talk to them. A lot of the times they tell you things without knowing exactly what's going on. I have learned a lot of good strategies from him. He is a life saver. Very laid back type of guy, so initially you might think he doesn't know enough. But hey, "empty vessels sound much," remember that phrase? He is a full vessel that doesn't sound much but can do things smartly and smoothly. I almost never give anyone feedback, but I asked him to give me some links where I can give him feedback, and he gave me the link. I am doing it because he deserves it. Despite being lazy, I think this is the right thing to do. My name is Miraz, and I am willing to answer any questions you may have about this lawyer.
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25 Nov, 2011 by Linda
I felt very confident in her ability to help with my case after our first meeting. Her explanations to my questions were clear and concise. Patty was always available to answer a I felt very confident having patty as my attorney after our initial meeting. She answered all questions clearly. Was always timely and kept me informed of all new developments in our case. I feel she is a professional who truely enjoys her work and has your best interest at heart. I am very happy I was referred by another attorney who said, "she is one of the best".
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13 May, 2021 by Joe bezdicek
Henry helped me with issues pertaining to the gaming industry and banishments from the reservations. He also helped me get the Mendota Mdewakanton Fed recognized and may open a casino real soon. Great attorney !!!
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03 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Salima did a wonderful job to prepare my J waiver case. Getting waiver for Fulbright recipients is impossible but Salima made this possible.
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15 May, 2020 by Brittany
Pam was my attorney when my daughter was taken from me. She did a really great job at handling my case. She gave me a lot of resources and she has a great personality. I loved her.
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20 Dec, 2013 by Joel d rath
Joel was my lawyer on a personal matter. I have known him and his firm for over thirty years. I have sent clients to him on worker's compensation cases, and other matters where his expertise was greater than mine. He has referred clients to me. He is an excellent lawyer and is totally trustworthy.
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10 Jul, 2013 by Layne
Ms. Mullen was an excellent, professional attorney. My case was settled quite satisfactorily.
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15 Mar, 2016 by Victor
My case was a civil commitment for chemical dependency. Terry Hegna was my lawyer for a year. Throughout that time she would give me consistent advice that she has because of her 30 some years of working in this field. Before leaving the state i contacted her to learn the consequences and they were accurate, that being getting a pick up order in this state and the commitment still having a review to extend or terminate after 6months. Im writing though regarding the termination of my civil commitment which i received a hearing right on the 6 month mark, my mom got it however because i was out of state. She fought for me to win even though i could not make the date. She clearly told me the risks of showing up and not showing up, (i could've been taken to treatment if we lost and i was in court). We went over all the possibilities, Considering my mom going in my place even, but it was her gut instinct that won the case. I had just enough evidence to prove my sobriety and success out of state. Despite the odds she won the case for me and saved me a year of heartbreak. Overall a very experienced lawyer who can accurately predict best courses of action due to her extensive knowledge of the system. Thank you for saving my future!
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28 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
An additional bonus working with Nicholas Doenges, esq., is that he is licensed in both CA and MN. His dual license has been invaluable to my family and me, with wills, estate planning, health directives, and real estate in both states.
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16 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
I am a teacher and was heading into the school year with an issue with my license stemming from criminal charges. Jess Anna stepped right in and swiftly turned my mess into a manageable situation. My license was renewed and I am heading into the school year with my license renewed. She created a much needed calm when I needed it, and kept me in the loop the whole time. Her professionalism and passion for what she does stood out during this experience, and I am very appreciative of her actions as I head into the school year. Anyone who works with her in the future will benefit from an incredible attorney!
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24 Oct, 2010 by Terry
The gentleman leaves no stone unturned in looking for opportunities and asserting or defending a tax position. A pleasure to work with and my first choice among attorneys in his areas of practice.
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13 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Hartman was extremely knowledgeable and responsive to my inquiries and explained my work comp case every step of the way.
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03 Apr, 2015 by Ruth
Nathan handled a few real estate cases for our company back in the early 2000's. He was very attentive to our cases and very skilled at his job.
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14 Dec, 2020 by Mohamed
Grace Fiddler is top notch lawyer who is very knowledgeable about her field. I ve had many lawyers in the past but she is the only one that I would recommend anyone who likes to ve her/his case to speed up. She won't rest until she does her work. She is very genuine & has a wonderful charisma. Mohamed
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30 Jan, 2013 by Randy
Thoughtful, kind, compassionate are not enough of the right words to say. I know people work to make a living but there are situations out there which need a more delicate touch. Margret was all of those and more. I have hired several attorneys in my life. Margret had a much better feel for people than some of the lawyers Iv'e dealt with. I believe you will not be disappointed.
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18 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Glenn represented me when I purchased 12 residential apartment buildings. He is thorough, well-informed, and I would be pleased to work with him again.
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19 Mar, 2013 by Harry
Ms. Jennifer Congdon handled my complicated cases professionally. She is a very competent and kind lawyer. I think that fees are very reasonable. I highly recommend this lawyer to anyone.
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11 Mar, 2013 by Jim
Karen did an outstanding job representing me. She did so professionally, compassionately and very well.
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28 Nov, 2012 by Robert
Other than saying the details were messy and it was an agonizing time of my life. The only clear head that was prvailing was Ms. Schorbahn. I was never in question about what was expected of me. There was always a return call to me by the following day. As I reflect, my understanding of the whole process of Divorce was wrong. The Child Custody portion was difficult to understand and process as well. It is a lot of waiting, during those periods of angst, Michelle was always dedicated to explaining, and quite honestly re-explaing the process in great detail. Decisions made were always my decisions after counsel with Ms. Schorbahn. It is because of this, I feel completely comfortable reccomending Michelle Schorbahn to any person who needs help during this difficult, timely process.
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04 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I am a former client of Mr. Grutzner. He quickly handled my case and I could depend on him to do exactly what he said. He kept me informed along the process so I never had to wonder what was going on. I have recommended him to my friends and family.
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17 Dec, 2016 by Eric baker
Karen has been a great help to me in a messy divorce. I don't know what I'd have done without her hard work, experience, and acumen!
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14 Jul, 2016 by Jill
Jeff handled legal matters during the passing of my mother, and then recently matters of probate after the passing of my brother. Jeff was excellent. He was professional, explained options or procedures clearly, often received my phone calls immediately (or were promptly returned). Goals were met in a smooth and timely manner. Jeff is a comfortable, confident, and nice guy to work with.
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15 Feb, 2018 by Jack
Ms. Duren was referred to me by another lawyer and I am so glad she was. I contacted her by phone and discussed my case. She was very knowledgeable and willing to help so I hired her on the spot. My court case was north of the cities and she had no problem traveling there not once but twice. She was more than helpful and accommodating and very professional. I would recommend her for any criminal defense.
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18 Feb, 2011 by James
I'm not just a friend of Michael's, I'm also a client. He has done a terrific job on my landlord/tenant dispute. It's not a multi-million dollar civil suit, but it might as well be. Legal issues over one's home are incredibly important, and if you're up against an unreasonable, terrifying landlord, you need a strong, fearless attorney to go to bat for you. A lot of attorneys might fold under the pressure Michael has received in my case, but Michael doesn't fold. I wouldn't worry about that disciplinary stuff. It was a trivial matter. Michael is as upright, congenial, and helpful as they come on this planet.
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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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