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22 Apr, 2024 by M h
I called this office at a time of great stress. My first contact was Shoshannah (the office manager, whose professional and calm demeanor was very appreciated). Mr. Galambos then spent time with my family, letting us know what to expect and how to negotiate the best outcome through each step we faced. Not only was he helpful to us regarding outcome, but he was pleasant to speak with, and we left each interaction feeling calmer than we entered it. Our family's situation was relatively minor, but mishandling it could've made it a far bigger deal than necessary. Mr. Galambos's counsel allowed us to keep it as minor as we'd hoped.
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04 Apr, 2023 by Stephanie barobriscoe
Guy and staff are very professional and get the job done. We highly recommend this office. They go above and beyond.
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04 Feb, 2023 by Tara behlers
I used John Hosford at Gillett Law for a very complicated divorce/custody matter with a uniquely difficult opposing party. This is my experience...
There is an extreme amount of trust, and a giant leap of faith one must take in hiring an attorney. Hiring a lawyer in family law matters of this nature entails tying some of the most painful and difficult decisions of your life to another humans' skill set, and trusting that they can and will properly represent you during a time when it's hard to trust anyone. It involves handing over deeply personal intimate details, sometimes through scraping together the funds to access their help. It's a big deal, and that's why I'm writing this review.
It's important to me to authentically share my experience as John Hosfords client in order to give prospective clients the insight to appreciate what a sound decision hiring this firm is. I aim to help alleviate worry and provide those reading this hope in a place where for me, there wasn't any before meeting my incredible attorney:
I was forced to put everything I had into Mr. Hosfords hands due to the complexities of my case. It turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. My case was transferred from another county, I was beyond nervous to switch attorneys. John Hosford expertly handled the transition leaving my old attorney with nothing but complementary and encouraging things to say after she worked with him on the transfer. Once in SLO county, he was able to systematically free us from the oppressions and injustices of my situation. He repeatedly went above and beyond to ensure success. After this experience I can confidently say, you will not find this level of rectitude, legal nurturing, diligence, grit, and expert guidance anywhere else.
I also quickly learned that despite his fierce presence, Mr. Hosford is deeply rooted in compassion, a savage yet professional protective nature, and judicial righteousness toward his clients. With his ability to swiftly apply judicial code, logic, and facts to the murkiness, confusion, and distractions generated by the other side, he was able to cut through the mess and render clean and clear resolution with unparalleled efficiency. He earned not just my respect, but that of the courtroom every time we had to appear. Every. Time.
Beyond Mr. Hosfords incredibly adept legal skill and knowledge, there is not a dollar amount or unit of measurement one can put on the level of commitment, heart, and security Mr. Hosford and Gillett Law gives to their clients, it's not something they are required to do...they just do it. This seems like more than a business for this firm, it's a passion and a desire to help people that is firmly grounded in integrity. I found it comforting during a very scary process and learned that resolution can be achieved even in the most impossible situations with the right representation and guidance.
Someone posted on a local blog somewhere "Hire John Hosford, watch your whole life change and get better..." and I'd like to steal it. Couldn't agree more.
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22 Apr, 2024 by M h
I called this office at a time of great stress. My first contact was Shoshannah (the office manager, whose professional and calm demeanor was very appreciated). Mr. Galambos then spent time with my family, letting us know what to expect and how to negotiate the best outcome through each step we faced. Not only was he helpful to us regarding outcome, but he was pleasant to speak with, and we left each interaction feeling calmer than we entered it. Our family's situation was relatively minor, but mishandling it could've made it a far bigger deal than necessary. Mr. Galambos's counsel allowed us to keep it as minor as we'd hoped.
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04 Apr, 2023 by Stephanie barobriscoe
Guy and staff are very professional and get the job done. We highly recommend this office. They go above and beyond.
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04 Feb, 2023 by Tara behlers
I used John Hosford at Gillett Law for a very complicated divorce/custody matter with a uniquely difficult opposing party. This is my experience...
There is an extreme amount of trust, and a giant leap of faith one must take in hiring an attorney. Hiring a lawyer in family law matters of this nature entails tying some of the most painful and difficult decisions of your life to another humans' skill set, and trusting that they can and will properly represent you during a time when it's hard to trust anyone. It involves handing over deeply personal intimate details, sometimes through scraping together the funds to access their help. It's a big deal, and that's why I'm writing this review.
It's important to me to authentically share my experience as John Hosfords client in order to give prospective clients the insight to appreciate what a sound decision hiring this firm is. I aim to help alleviate worry and provide those reading this hope in a place where for me, there wasn't any before meeting my incredible attorney:
I was forced to put everything I had into Mr. Hosfords hands due to the complexities of my case. It turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. My case was transferred from another county, I was beyond nervous to switch attorneys. John Hosford expertly handled the transition leaving my old attorney with nothing but complementary and encouraging things to say after she worked with him on the transfer. Once in SLO county, he was able to systematically free us from the oppressions and injustices of my situation. He repeatedly went above and beyond to ensure success. After this experience I can confidently say, you will not find this level of rectitude, legal nurturing, diligence, grit, and expert guidance anywhere else.
I also quickly learned that despite his fierce presence, Mr. Hosford is deeply rooted in compassion, a savage yet professional protective nature, and judicial righteousness toward his clients. With his ability to swiftly apply judicial code, logic, and facts to the murkiness, confusion, and distractions generated by the other side, he was able to cut through the mess and render clean and clear resolution with unparalleled efficiency. He earned not just my respect, but that of the courtroom every time we had to appear. Every. Time.
Beyond Mr. Hosfords incredibly adept legal skill and knowledge, there is not a dollar amount or unit of measurement one can put on the level of commitment, heart, and security Mr. Hosford and Gillett Law gives to their clients, it's not something they are required to do...they just do it. This seems like more than a business for this firm, it's a passion and a desire to help people that is firmly grounded in integrity. I found it comforting during a very scary process and learned that resolution can be achieved even in the most impossible situations with the right representation and guidance.
Someone posted on a local blog somewhere "Hire John Hosford, watch your whole life change and get better..." and I'd like to steal it. Couldn't agree more.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr.Millan was a professional through thick and thin. My case took alot of crazy turns and he stuck with it and went above and beyond for my case. I would recommend him to anyone. He got me a good deal that really saved me alot of time in jail.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Evgeny
Mr. Milan is a great attorney! Experienced and knowledgeable, he is a true courtroom heavyweight, dedicated to his clients.
I hired him to defend a DV case. The service fee is not cheap, but it is fair and predictable - no surprises and well worth it. As a result, all goals were achieved!
I highly recommend this lawyer!
Для русскоязычных:
Очень хороший адвокат, прям повезло, что нанял его, - держит слово, очень компетентный и опытный. Кейс - домашнее насилие. Недешево, но его услуги стоят того, и нет "доилова". Уверенно держал защиту, решил все вопросы на 100%, не смотря на жесткое давление прокурора.
Очень рекомендую!
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14 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Will milk you dry he is just not a just lawyer. I think he needs to redefine why he got into this profession in the first place. I’ll pray for you sir.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Shawna
I was a new case. She charged a lot, which was expected. I wish that she would have spent some time explaining a little bit more about how to handle things with my ex, who I thought was supposed to communicate with her, but chose not too. But I really wasn't explained anything. Instead she charged me for every email she opened. About $40 to read an email. We had a trial. She didn't prepare me for the trail, even though I did ask in advance. The Commissioner who was on the bench at the time asked more appropriate questions of the opposing parties witnesses, than she did. My ex was pro per. I had the lawyer. And yet the ex had more working in his favor, because my lawyer didn't do enough. I brought 2 witnesses to that hearing. 1 was a very credible witness who knew and seen a lot, one was nervous and shy. She called the nervous and shy witness and not the witnesses who had the greater information. She was preparing to go on a trip at that time. So maybe she didn't care as much about that case, because she was mentally already on her trip. I don't know. What I do know, is that when I realized the acting commissioner did a better job asking questions of my ex's witnesses (to try to bring some fairness into the case), than she did, I was hurt. I parted ways with her shortly afterwards. I then went pro per from then on for the next 6+ years. I ended up doing better being on my own, then working with her. So she might be worth it for you. But she wasn't worth it for me.
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31 Aug, 2015 by Robert
I hired Ms. Curtze to be my attorney for custody matters. I was using another attorney locally and was not getting good results, so I switched to her office. Curtze Law was a great help. She was able to get me the results that I wanted in a classy fashion. I felt like I was respected and my concerns were heard and listened to. I am very happy here and would highly recommend. The response time was always quick and the staff was helpful. She explained the process so I could understand, the pros and cons and obtained the best results for me that I could ask for.
Thank you to this firm. Highly recommend.
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20 Aug, 2014 by Randy
I could not be more pleased with the service that Ms. Curtze provided to me. She kept me up to date on everything and stayed in contact with me throughout the process until the case was settled. I never thought I would say this about a lawyer, but she was a joy to work with. I would recommend her to anyone who needs legal help.
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12 Mar, 2021 by Brent
I was looking for an attorney to help me evict tenants that weren't paying rent and ignored the 30 day notice I sent them. After speaking with Michael Pick during the consultation I knew he was the attorney for me. Michael and his staff were all honest, friendly, and easy to stay in contact with. The eviction process started in the middle of february right before covid started. The tenants were a few months behind on rent and had only moved in 6 months prior. Mr. Pick got right on it and was very quick to process all the paper work to submit to the courts for eviction. I am very glad Mr. Pick made it happen as fast as he did because covid was right around the corner and they were forced to move out a 1 or 2 days before the state banned ecictions due to covid.
A few months after all of this happened I had hired a bad automechanic and asked for Mr. Pick's advice thru email. Which was incredibly helpful as this mechanic is now being investigated by a couple different agencies for fraud. This is also a veteran owned business and their integrity throughout me working with them showed it. I will always try to support locally owned veteran businesses especially if they're as professional as Mr. Pick and his staff.
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27 Oct, 2020 by Megan
Very detail orientated and thorough.
Had to execute an eviction during covid - 19 and needed assistance with an unlawful detainer.
With all the court closures and short staffing they were able to complete my case and we had a successful outcome.
They are great on communication via phone and email.
I highly suggest them for routine and 'out of the ordinary' needs.
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15 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Consulted with Mike about a case, and he sincerely put my mind at ease. A very genuine and forthright person.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Robert
When your not familiar with ins and outs of CA legal system these guys made the experience a breeze. Hope I never need the help again but if so they're top notch. Thank you very much
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15 Jun, 2023 by Jose a. santos-rojas
No parking
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27 May, 2023 by Heidi hendrix
My experience was beyond what I expected. I was granted termination of probation about a year early. With the communication before court I went to my hearing with confidence knowing we were well prepared.
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06 Oct, 2023 by Carrie perez
It is under a new name. The firm isn’t helpful.
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07 Mar, 2022 by Kevin jones
Ann Wilson is great
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28 Jan, 2021 by Aaron anderson
Friendly, honest, thorough, and effective.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Shenna artusio
I would highly recommend Claire. I reached out to a number of lawyers before I found Ms. Corcoran, and she ended up being the best that I could have asked for! She saw my situation through all the way to the end. She brings expert knowledge and understanding to her cases while working to offer you the best information to use in your decision making.
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14 Nov, 2023 by Kimberly jones
Bettencourt took on a DV divorce case.
His client is unsavory. We are trying to maintain a much needed DVRO and he’s coming after US for $3000 in legal fees because him and his client chose to push court cases out and pad the bill.
He is a terrible lawyer. Offers zero counsel to his clients, very unorganized and is trying to get money out of someone who can’t work because of chemo and radiation treatment due to brain cancer! He’s awful and unreasonable. If you want your abuser to suck more money from you instead of them paying the price of their actions, definitely hire this guy.
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01 Jan, 2023 by Andi inlow-calmere
13 Jan, 2024 by Savannah merrill
Trustworthy, reliable, and personal. I highly recommend this law firm for any of your legal needs!
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26 Oct, 2022 by Shelly dalton
Do yourself a favor and retain Attorney Roy Ogen!
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22 Feb, 2021 by James traylor
Roy Ogden and Shae Luchatta are a Dynamic Duo that are extremely organized and detailed. They don't miss a thing.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Brad leage
The Baily law firm did a wonderful job representing my family in a most trying time for us. They were professional throughout are entire process. I highly recommend this firm for any real estate issues you might encounter. Thanks again for all the help!!!
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27 Dec, 2024 by Robert s.
We received high quality legal representation from the Bailey Law Firm. Our case was handled by Jonas Bailey and his attorney staff. We were kept informed of all the legal aspects of our case and court procedures. We were ultimately able to settle the case in mediation and not have to go to trial, which saved us a good deal of money.
Thank you Jonas
Robert S.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Keith mckibben
Jonas and his team knocked it out of the park in a multi-million dollar trial verdict. I was referred to the Bailey Law Firm around 2018. The BLF represented me in a probate / trust lawsuit as a beneficiary against my mother in law (who was trustee) where she was trying to steal all of my inheritance that my father worked so hard to leave me. Fortunately, when Jonas got involved he was able to freeze most of the property and disable her ability to continue to steal from me. Not only was Jonas able to battle through four different lawyers, he was able get her removed as trustee, prove fraud, and the court awarded double damages against her!! If you have a lawsuit and need a great trial lawyer who has integrity and grit, I highly recommend Jonas Bailey and his team!!!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Amelia t
Jeffrey Stulberg is a fantastic lawyer and an even better human. Jeffrey is honest, diligent, & determined to get the best possible outcome. He is easy to work with and his demeanor is backed by integrity and kindness. Jeffrey has always gone above and beyond for me and maintains consistent communication throughout the entire process. This man is a true professional and an incredible attorney. Thank you Jeffrey for everything you did for me. I will gladly recommend Jeffrey and his staff to anyone in need of an amazing law office.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Stephanie
Sabrina is the best in the area for all your trust needs. Very trustworthy, efficient, and knowledgeable!
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29 Jan, 2024 by Lourie dudman
Highly recommended !!!!!!!!!!!!! David Hamilton and his staff worked hard to get some drug scum tenants out of my rental. It's been a few years back. I just want to say thank you. I loved it when he showed up along w/ the sheriff at the end of the legal process.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
“I hired Brian Buckley for my case after being hit by a motorcycle whose driver was under the influence of narcotics. I ended up serving 16 months in prison, and only later discovered that the CHP report clearly stated the motorcycle driver was at fault for making an illegal merge. This lawyer never disclosed that critical information to me, which could have completely changed the outcome of my case. He was unethical, unprofessional, and the worst lawyer I could have imagined. I would never recommend him to anyone.”
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18 Apr, 2024 by Robert
When your not familiar with ins and outs of CA legal system these guys made the experience a breeze. Hope I never need the help again but if so they're top notch. Thank you very much
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15 Jun, 2023 by Jose a. santos-rojas
No parking
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06 Oct, 2023 by Carrie perez
It is under a new name. The firm isn’t helpful.
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07 Mar, 2022 by Kevin jones
Ann Wilson is great
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28 Jan, 2021 by Aaron anderson
Friendly, honest, thorough, and effective.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Robert
When your not familiar with ins and outs of CA legal system these guys made the experience a breeze. Hope I never need the help again but if so they're top notch. Thank you very much
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15 Jun, 2023 by Jose a. santos-rojas
No parking
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27 May, 2023 by Heidi hendrix
My experience was beyond what I expected. I was granted termination of probation about a year early. With the communication before court I went to my hearing with confidence knowing we were well prepared.
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01 Apr, 2022 by Shane
Central Coast Estate Planning and the legal help of Jed Hazeltine were outstanding in helping me and my siblings work through the complexities of a family estate issue in the area. I live remote to the area and contacted Jed after an internet search. He was able to quickly assess the situation and provide a recommended legal courses of action. Throughout the process, I was supported with savvy legal advice and strategic recommendations. He or one of his team were always quick to respond, easy to follow and the quality of the legal submissions were spot on. I was very professionally represented in court by Jed, and especially important, the end results were very positive.
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28 Feb, 2020 by Jill
Experience, judgement and great communication skills are just a few of the qualities that I expected in a lawyer when I was presented with some difficulty of receiving my inheritance after my parents passed. I found those qualities with Lawyer, Jed D Hazeltine of Central Coast Estate Planning and Fiduciary Services in San Luis Obispo,CA
Jed Hazeltine promptly took care of business even with me living out of state. He represented my interests as a beneficiary of my Parent's estate. With the information I provided, Jed guided me thru on what my rights were, as well as a timeline to effectively receive my inheritance without having to go into Probate.
Thank you, Jed
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16 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I called to for a consultation. Receptionist advised I could have a consultation the follwing day and I should send a summarizing email to Jed. I sent it to him with the expectation he would have it read 24 hours later. Email had not been read the following day... basically unprepared and said he'd need time to think about it. Waste of my time.
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07 Jan, 2024 by Stephen ellis
There is a review “not even worth one star” I didn’t write it but I might as well have, same circumstances same result,Bill just took $5k and put it in his pocket,questioned nothing hoisted white flag and sold me down the river,dreadful individual.unscrouopulous!
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12 Oct, 2023 by Rob
When the situation requires the best, forget the rest. I have a huge crescent wrench in my tool box. Its very expensive and rarely comes out of the box. When I have to use that wrench, nothing else will work. When you need Ilan, you need Ilan. Why gamble your future on another attorney?
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10 May, 2020 by Anonymous
I needed a lawyer to defend me against an ex who was seeking a restraining order on a bogus allegation. Let me be clear about this: there was not a shred of truth or proof to her allegation. Before we went to court he told me he was ready to take on the allegation. But in court, Bilu didn't lift a finger to contest the plaintiff's lawyer who used her concocted story to get the court to issue a restraining order. He just sat there and didn't say a word in my defense. Bilu sold me down the river and because of him my reputation is soiled. I had never before or since been involved with the law or police. And in this case there was no police involvement. Keep away from Bilu. He'll take your money and do nothing for you.
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17 Jan, 2022 by Betty perez
Answered my questions and very nice to talk to
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07 Mar, 2020 by Robin clark
08 Mar, 2019 by Suzan borazjani
I do not think any one should hire an impolite person like Jere. He is very impatient with answering your question, He will not listen to your concerns and keeps bragging about his being good at this, well if you are where are the reviews?
It is obvious by other reviews that he is not doing good. He has bad-tempered and seems like not knowing what he is doing, Avoid going to him, if you are looking for a decent person, being polite and talking with you about the facts!
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10 Aug, 2012 by Edward
Mr. Kraft was appointed by the Ventura Appellate Court to apppeal a case related to my mentally ill son who was attacked by a very large dog in 1997. My son panicked and killed the dog. Another minor incident followed the same year. The unethical Ventura deputy DA blew the cases out of proportion, hid my son illness to a jury and achieved prison instead of hospitalization. Mr. Kraft appeal was excellent and he achieved that a ridiculous and illegal enhancement charge on the dog's case be removed. Mr. Kraft had the courtesy of visiting the family IN PERSON to obtain first hand information prior to starting his appeal. This was unusual and the family felt very grateful that he heard us.
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02 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Kraft was the exact opposite of all horrible thing you hear about lawyers. He was fair re: payment/cost. He always returned my calls promptly. He is very knowledgable on the law pertaining to my case and he is refreshingly realistic and logical with his answers.
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30 May, 2024 by Anonymous
My friend paid for Edward to represent her and he never once worked on her case. She paid a retaining fee of 8 k and she got his assistant to represent her. Heather is who is representing my friend. She has never once done anything in a timely matter at all. She lies constantly. She asks for payment in a timely matter every time. My friend has now paid over 16 grand and NOTHING has been done. She seems to be on the ex husbands side more than the client who OS PAYING HER. She says she will do something then it takes weeks or it doesn’t even happen. It seems like she’s drags things out to get another check from my friend. This is a huge warning to go with any other law firm in the area. This firm is by far the worst I’ve ever seen. I wish I could go into more details and I will when the case is over.
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01 May, 2019 by Tina
Ed Somogyi was appointed by the court to act as minors counsel for my children in 2011. We were ordered to pay about 1/4 of his hourly rate - and because of this, we received about 10% of his time and attention (if that). For three years, I plead with him to help me protect my children and got nowhere. He was appointed to be their voice and advocate in the Family court system and in my opinion, he failed. Thankfully, the court finally protected my children in 2014 but it should've happened much earlier if Ed would have actually done his job.
Because of my own journey, I have become a family court advocate and I hear complaints about Ed Somogyi constantly, even from the people who have paid his full, ungodly hourly rate. Based on my own experience and the experiences of others, I could never recommend Ed Somogyi to anyone.
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26 May, 2014 by Anonymous
He has no time for his clients. He has WAY too many clients to pay attention to anyone's case. Doesn't respond to calls, e-mails from clients or communications from opposing attorneys. All he does is put out forest fires. His office is a billing machine so check each entry with a fine tooth comb. You'd be better served by an attorney who manages his/her caseload in such a way as to pay attention to your case. Definitely stay away from him.
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04 Nov, 2015 by Jesse
Gary Faucette is the worst attorney out of the past ten attorneys I have ever used. Gary Faucette promised me he could win my case easily. Not only did he loose my case against an unrepresented party, he set a court case for the following month for change of venue at the wrong court house. My case couldn't even be addressed that day because the current venue is still in Bakersfield. Gary Faucette not only waited until two days until court date to ask me for an additional $2,000 more, but called the other attorney in Bakersfield and asked for a continuance without my knowledge. Gary Faucette has taken my hard earned money and did more damage than good. I would have been better off representing myself than to have Gary Faucette give me a false sense of hope.
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25 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
SERIOUSLY!!! THIS MAN CANNOT ADD 2 AND 2 AND COME UP WITH 4!! He got the numbers for the assets mixed up and miscalculated so many times it made my head spin!!
He lead me to believe he was a mediator at first, then later turned on me and said my ex had paid him and that was who he was looking out for!! I was shocked beyond belief and told him I would have definitely not said, given and done certain things had I known that from the start!! BEWARE!!
He lost papers and couldn't recall what he had previously told me. I had notes and figures written down during meetings and phone calls and he denied what he had previously said!!! What a joke!!!
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07 Jun, 2014 by William
This was a terrible , life altering experience. Having Gary Faucette for a mediator in my divorce was the most costly financial mistake I have ever made. What a huge mistake. Get yourself a good attorney and go adversarial if necessary but avoid him at all costs. I echo what the other reviewer said.
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21 Apr, 2021 by Joel
I interview with john's staff. dropped off my paperwork. I had one question that was pertinent and time was a factor and let them know...about a week went by so, I just assumed no response. Out of the blue I get a call saying he won't be able to contact me for two weeks. I say thats too late, it becomes Monday with out a breath. That was a little offsetting. I tried to mention I just had 1 question...but she kept getting irritated and kept saying how he had pushed me in front of others and could deal with my case later. I tried to mention it was just one question...but she wasn't listening. After thinking on it, I didn't want to jump the line in front of others and really felt like there was more stress than necessary. I called back and got some one else and mentioned to forget about it. That I was uneasy with a couple things and its ok, i will figure it out. Monday I receive a letter saying they will not be handling my case due to my request. I call and mention this is a miscommunication. I just meant nevermind about my question. Same woman I had that conversation with and she remembered and apologized. I did too. She said she would mention it to them, they would get back to me. I waited a week and then called because this is when I was supposed to call before the question came up. I get the 2nd woman, she says they still aren't taking my case for reasons mentioned in the letter....that I requested it. WHAT THE F? heard good things but they may be too good for you. They were way too good for me
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09 Dec, 2020 by David j
I hired to arbitrat a dispute years ago and he keep telling WW2 stories that had nothing to do with my situation. We are not related.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Juana
I made the horrible stupid mistake of highering Harold's service and paying him in full up front. After that he avoided my calls and questions. A few years later, he told me my case was a no go. I knew he was entitled to keep the retainer fee but not the rest of my money since his services were incomplete, Harold refused to return my $6000 so I reported him
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Membership in professional organizations or specialty bar associations can indicate a commitment to their field. -
Awards and Recognitions:
Honors from reputable organizations reflect expertise and a positive reputation. -
Consultation Assessment:
Use the initial consultation to evaluate their communication skills, responsiveness, and willingness to address your concerns. -
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:
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Relevant Documents:
Bring all documents related to your case, such as contracts, correspondence, legal notices, court papers, or evidence. -
Written Summary:
Prepare a concise written summary of your situation, including key dates, events, and involved parties. -
List of Questions:
Write down any questions you have about your case, the legal process, or the lawyer's experience. -
Financial Information:
If applicable, bring financial documents like pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements. -
Contact Information:
Provide details of any witnesses or other parties relevant to your case. -
Personal Identification:
Bring a valid ID for verification purposes. -
Pen and Notebook:
Take notes during the consultation to remember important points. -
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:
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Fee Structures:
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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.
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Hourly Rate:
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Factors Affecting Cost:
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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.
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Complexity of the Case:
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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.
