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Anthony M. Bettencourt, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 3 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
22,25
star star star star star
3.7/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Oct, 2024 by Steven
Anthony has been advising my business for almost five years now and I cannot recommend him enough. Anthony is responsive and, even though I use him on an hourly basis, is as available as a salaried employee. He has revised contracts, advised on their terms, and resolved disputes before they get out of hand. Above all else, Anthony always addresses what’s best for my business. This guy is an asset to have. I’m proud to recommend him and his services to any other small business owner.
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24 Mar, 2022 by Lisa poore
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star star star star star
21 Jun, 2021 by Russ bowden
Friendly competent staff.
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James Norbert Eimers, experienced  attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 19 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
22,06
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
19 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Jul, 2024 by Just kidding
Beware, This office will make eviction threats based upon lies that even the SRPD cannot prove to be legitimate!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ian tavelli
Jack and the team at Welty Weaver & Currie, are exceptional. I've personally utilized their services and referred others because of the trust I have in them and the way they do business. They are not only highly skilled but also incredibly trustworthy. They listen attentively, provide realistic expectations, and work tirelessly to achieve the best outcomes. Their honesty and transparency set them apart in the legal field. If you need reliable legal representation or advice, I highly recommend Welty Weaver & Currie because you can navigate legal matters with confidence and trust. They are truly some of the best in the business!
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star star star star star
08 Jul, 2024 by Duncan kelm
Best in class all around. Experts in every legal need I have ever had. They handle all my business, estate and legal needs. Strongly recommend. They care about outcome.
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Erick Scott Guzman, experienced Criminal Defense, Immigration attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 7 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
20,11
star star star star star
3.8/5
Avvo
3.8
7 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Worst lawyer. Aggressive, very rude, doesn’t respond to calls or questions. Takes payment upfront, but doesn’t provide any real service.
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star star star star star
26 May, 2019 by Pat
How lucky my family and I were to find Mr. Guzman. He helped us understand and navigate the whole process we had to go through. Fortunately he took care of most of it so we didn’t have to deal with the majority of the details. It was evident that he really cared about a fair outcome and eased our worries throughout. Though we had to endure this unfortunate situation, we made a new friend and ally in Mr. Guzman. Would highly recommend him!
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13 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Eric was incredibly informative, reliable and I appreciated the approach he took in familiarizing the family of their rights. He was on time, constructive and pragmatic. Thank you for your support Mr. Guzman. Sharing your knowledge base and this information was crucial to our success.
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Patrick Gill Grattan, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 3 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,04
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2021 by Ann marie
I hired Mr. Grattan on advice from my divorce lawyer, who assured me that he would efficiently work through my case and get the results I wanted. Mr. Grattan was very attentive to the case, which was resolved through a deposition and one meeting with my ex and his attorney. I felt well-represented and supported during the process and recommend him unequivocally.
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24 May, 2011 by Michael
This attorney will cost you a ton of money as he is slow and submissive in the court room and the opposing counsel will walk all over him. Was not forceful in fighting for my case and my needs, but very good at sending out the bills. I am stuck with a steep alimony for years to come because this lawyer was so ineffective in representing my case.
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star star star star star
30 Oct, 2010 by Kathleen
Mr. Grattan was understanding, efficient and tough. He saved me money and got the result I wanted. cannot say enough about his competence.
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Kathleen Mullins Henderson, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 8 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,69
star star star star star
3.5/5
Avvo
3.5
8 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Perhaps if you are looking for someone to escalate, increase conflict and wreak havoc on the other party, Kate is worth your hire. But, she was assigned as our child's minor counsel in a high-conflict divorce and she caused irreparable harm to my child. Immediately siding with the charming, manipulative abuser, she filed false allegations against the protective parent, which shifted custody in the abuser's favor and never reverted back, despite evaluations proving her allegations were unfounded. She in no way represented our child's best interests and instead didn't invest the time, energy into fully understanding our admittedly complex case. She is a shame to the system and should not be serving as minor's counsel for any child.
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star star star star star
09 Mar, 2020 by Marco
Kate and her team including Danielle have been my rock throughout this process. Would not have accomplished what I have accomplished with them. Worth every cent! Caring and compassionate! Definite passion for family law and doing what is right!
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29 Aug, 2019 by Amber
Kate has been a great help. She is sensitive to my situation, but also honest and straight forward with what needs to happen. I am currently going through a custody battle and Kate has helped me through it. She gave me guidance when I felt completely lost. Her advice and insight are priceless. Although I hope to never have to hire Kate again and be in this situation, I would hire her in a heartbeat.
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Roz Bateman Smith, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 8 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,69
star star star star star
3.5/5
Avvo
3.5
8 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2022 by Csp
At first she was sweet and I believed that she had my best interest. But once I paid her the money she asked for she became Angry and told me that if I didn’t respond to her text within an hour she would fire me. I just left the first attorney who was failing miserably for this lady. She also worked with the other side and was getting paid under the table and when asked what was going on She denied it .But few days went buy .that 14000 bill we owed said paid in full. She has no loyalty and does not honor her word.please understand that anybody who had a good review of Roz I’m sure somehow someway was cocoo for coco pops
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05 Jan, 2021 by Joev
We went to court unprepared. I received a restraining order, my new attorney said Roz would have filed a form it would have gotten dropped. She went to court with me and did not say anything and let court run it’s course. I agree with other reviews, you get what you pay for.
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16 Dec, 2017 by A.b.c.
I hired Roz Bateman-Smith, Esq. for an extremely complicated and contentious divorce involving domestic violence/restraining order with a shared child/custody. She was extremely easy to communicate and work with and solidly reliable in my most troubling times. Her demeanor in a heated exchange in nothing short of composed and professional. One of the most important things to me is that I knew she truly cared about the safety of me and my children. After the divorce was finalized, I hired her once more. She represented me again in court after it was revealed my ex committed a horrible crime against a child. Once I knew I needed a lawyer she was the first and only lawyer I called! She helped prove that we needed even more protection in the form of strict supervised visitation, confidentiality of our location and a maximum term protective order. For the past two years, she's been invaluable and I will always be grateful for the role she played in the lives of me and my children.
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Carmen Diane Sinigiani, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,25
star star star star star
3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2022 by Lisa poore
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Jun, 2021 by Russ bowden
Friendly competent staff.
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Barbara Detrich Gallagher, experienced Business, Intellectual Property attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 2 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,25
star star star star star
3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2022 by Lisa poore
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Jun, 2021 by Russ bowden
Friendly competent staff.
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Malcolm Edward Barrack, experienced Civil Rights, Litigation attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,62
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
We went with this attorney because we felt his longevity in law would mean he is prepared, seasoned, and would do a good job for us. We found him to be unprepared; at times argumentative; at times defensive; at times non-responsive and generally overcharged for his "services". Incredibly he missed critical deadlines! Most disappointing he was entirely ineffective and sat on his hands when it was time to represent our interests. I have worked with more than 100 attorneys during my career. I can't think of an attorney that charged so much and accomplished so little.
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star star star star star
10 Sep, 2021 by Stacey swanson
Honest and caring people.
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Christy Auguste Chouteau, experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 10 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,48
star star star star star
3.4/5
Google Maps
3.4
10 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2023 by James peterson
In was accused of a crime and was referred by a friend ? Big mistake this guy does not know what he is doing gave me a big line how he would get charges dropped and he says will refund the differce lol ? A year later and I almost had gone to jail if I did not do something fast ? Got a new attorney and charges dropped wiw do not use this guy …..
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star star star star star
04 May, 2021 by Talia correia
Hes amazing
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star star star star star
13 Feb, 2021 by Halley miller
He's always been the lawyer my family comes to if there is ever a dispute with the law, he's a good guy and a good lawyer. I'd love to have him on my side if the time comes.
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Douglas Curwood Fladseth, experienced Business, Government attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2023 by Doug
No details provided. Hard to respond to this one anonymous review in 45 years of successful practice as hospital and personal injury attorney.
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14 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Douglas Fladseth is very untrustworthy. Doug ignores his fiduciary duty to his clients whom place their utmost trust and confidence in him to manage their legal actions. He intentionally damaged my case by not following court rules, such as providing sealed records to the court.
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Donald S Edgar, experienced Personal Injury attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Nov, 2022 by Brian
Well, Don ripped my company off for work we did on his office network. He has avoided payment 4 times that he told me to stop by and pick up a check..His secretary says no check, and Don is not in the office....But his car is right outside...Hmmmm The guy has been suspended from the bar for ripping of senior citizens..
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star star star star star
25 Jan, 2012 by Magnity interactive / wildoutwest
Top talent. Highly intelligent and the sort of person who gets the job done. You wouldn't think you'd have to say this about a lawyer - but there are a lot of slouches that are going through the motions for the fees. Don is a trial lawyer of the highest caliber - he will fight to win, and bring his exceptional talents to the table on your behalf rather than simply roll over and settle for half as many seem to. I beleive he will work on contingency for the right cases.
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Michelle Valerie Zyromski, experienced  attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,69
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Jun, 2011 by Curtis
Michelle Zyromski is an admirable litigator. During her representation in a civil matter she was thorough complete and professional. As managing partner of Zyromski Konicek they truly represented my interests. There is nothing not to like about a firm which cares about its community and its clients 110%.
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28 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
Michelle does not seem know a lot of things an attorney should know...she did look things up quite often, but unfortunately as a client, I was billed for all of this. She also bills 240/hr. even when it is an administrative task. She also runs most things by her husband/partner. They don't seem to think alike, and the client is billed for their discussions. Another issue with Michelle is that she is extremely ill which takes time away from the office and the pace she is able to work is very slow. I do feel bad for her, but I also can't afford to pay for this. I want an attorney who is in top form mentally and physically. She wins financially, but the client does not. However, she will insist that she is fine. She is not fine. And she is not very assertive in the court room, while the oppositions attorney can be very assertive, she is not. She made comments quite often that she did not want to upset the judge. Bottom line is that she will win financially no matter how well or poorly she represents her client, it's the client who suffers.
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Kari Jill Brown, experienced  attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,65
star star star star star
3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2022 by Lisa poore
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Jun, 2021 by Russ bowden
Friendly competent staff.
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Ashlee M. Hellman, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,65
star star star star star
3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2022 by Lisa poore
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Jun, 2021 by Russ bowden
Friendly competent staff.
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Sarah Marie Lewers, experienced Litigation, Real Estate attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 3 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
11,89
star star star star star
2.6/5
Avvo
2.6
3 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Ms. Lewers is an excellent attorney. She did a great job representing us in a wrongful eviction lawsuit.
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04 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Was promised the world when I engaged with attorney Lewers. Opposing council should have been on the defense and instead they were on the offense because she was late in responding to everything. She was nice but there are a lot of better attorneys out there.
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02 Jan, 2021 by Jennifer m.
You will be lucky if you can get her to answer the phone or return an email. She waits until the last minute to respond to pressing inquiries from the other side, and then puts together a hap-hazard response, not fully understanding what is going on. Make sure to ask her to respond to things in a timely manner, or put it in your contract that her pay should be docked if she doesn't.
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Sarah Baxter Kaplan, experienced Appeals, Civil Rights attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
11,72
star star star star star
2.0/5
Avvo
2.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Dec, 2024 by Alex
Ms. Kaplan is a charming and versatile individual who has the potential to excel in many professions—teaching, singing, customer service, psychology, medicine—the possibilities are endless. However, based on my experiences, I believe that the law may not be the best fit for her. I have observed her handling two cases that, at first glance, appeared straightforward but ultimately resulted in legal chaos costing her clients remarkable stress and fees. In one instance, a woman with minimal means somehow ran up over half a million dollars in legal fees only to have her client endure a series of unfavorable outcomes, including losing a previously secured restraining order, losing custody, zero alimony, all while recovering minimal attorney fees. Ultimately this client ended up having to sell her home just to pay the legal fees, and Sarah was let go. While Ms. Kaplan’s passion and determination are evident, her courtroom presence has, at times, been undeniably cringe-worthy. Specifically she seems to lack the ability to "read the room" as she constantly rambled on with arguments that were clearly not resonating with the judge, in a style more appropriate for a talkshow rather than a legal forum. Sarah's bright and vibrant personality just isn't the best fit for the cold, calculated, and ruthless environment that family Court requires.
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Holly Hohlbein Wotherspoon, experienced Family Law attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 11 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
11,71
star star star star star
2.0/5
Google Maps
2.0
11 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Oct, 2021 by Jenney vasquez
If I could give 0 stars I would. Corrupt and unprofessional. She does not deserve her title one bit.
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star star star star star
17 Sep, 2021 by Adriana romeo
Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Aug, 2021 by Itstiffgirl
How can I give 0 stars . ?!!!Horrible women .
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Martin L Hirsch, experienced Business, Real Estate attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
11,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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E. Page Allinson, experienced Business, Probate attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
11,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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James V. Sansone, experienced  attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Kristen Frizzell Kerns, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Charles W. Applegate, experienced  attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Joe Bisbiglia, experienced Criminal Defense attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Robert Bialkin, experienced  attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Ms. Julia Jeanne Parranto, experienced Business, Lawsuit / Dispute attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Thomas Philip Kelly III, experienced  attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Joe Bisbiglia, experienced Criminal Defense, DUI / DWI attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Chad O. Dorr, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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David J. Collier, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Santa Rosa, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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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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