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Eric Scott Gullotta, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Sonoma, CA with 36 reviews
Average
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43,70
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
12 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
24 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Dec, 2024 by Chris mcallister
Eric and team guided me through the task of distributing my parents estate. I did not realize how much needs to be done when you are executor and without their help I would have been lost. If you have the unfortunate job of executor, I would highly recommend hiring The Gullotta Law Group to help you navigate the process.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Beverly h
I recently had the pleasure of working with Eric Gullotta a trust and probate attorney who not only exceeded my expectations but also provided invaluable peace of mind during a potentially stressful process. From start to finish, Eric and his staff demonstrated expertise, compassion, and a genuine commitment to my needs. In revising my original trust documents, Eric displayed a remarkable level of attention to detail. He meticulously reviewed every aspect of my trust, ensuring that it aligned perfectly with my wishes and current circumstances. His thoroughness gave me confidence that my estate planning was in capable hands. What truly set Eric and his staff apart, however, was their caring approach. They took the time to understand my concerns and priorities, patiently addressing any questions or uncertainties I had along the way. Their willingness to listen and provide clear explanations helped alleviate any anxieties I had about the process. Moreover, Eric was incredibly efficient. Despite the complexity of my trust documents, they completed the revisions in a timely manner, keeping me informed of progress every step of the way. Their professionalism and responsiveness were greatly appreciated and made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. Overall, I cannot recommend Gullotta Law Group highly enough. Whether you're in need of trust revisions, estate planning guidance, or any other legal services, the firm is an exceptional advocate who will prioritize your needs with care and expertise. Working with them was truly a positive experience, and I am grateful for the peace of mind they have provided me with.
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11 Sep, 2023 by Hilda teran-franklin
Kind and understanding of my needs. Issues and processes explained by Mr Gullotta to my satisfaction. Great support staff as well.
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Dona Cohn-Payne, experienced Car Accident, Mediation attorney in Sonoma, CA with 7 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.
39,22
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
7 Reviews
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2019 by Christina
I hired Dona after I was badly injured in an auto accident by someone running a red light. Dona is highly experienced and knowledgable, as well as compassionate. She helped me through difficult times and helped me keep focused on doctor visits and questions I needed answers to from the doctors and therapists; encouraged me through necessary surgery. She helped me maintain patience in the more than two years it took to complete my surgery and therapies to settle the case satisfactorily. She has more than normal investigative abilities which played an important part in my case. I give her a 10 out 5 stars.
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28 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
Dona is truly an advocate. She is knowledgable and I could not ask for anything more. She listens and was excellent in providing information and answering all my questions.
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11 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Dona is smart and aggressive. She was clear from the outset about the strengths and weaknesses of our case. The other lawyer and the insurance company were familiar with her, and respected her. She got us a good result and I'd choose her as our attorney again.
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Laura Herron Weber, experienced Car Accident, Discrimination attorney in Sonoma, CA with 1 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.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
Laura went above and beyond to represent me and to also support me during a challenging time in my life.
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Valerie Pistole, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Sonoma, CA with 1 reviews
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.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Valerie pistole is a very competant attorney. She handled my estate planning . I have a very large family and she took the time to help me work out exactly what I wanted for all of them and makes sure we review it and make changes when needed
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Audrey Jane Gerard, experienced Elder Law, Litigation attorney in Sonoma, CA with 16 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.
36,92
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
16 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Aug, 2023 by Jimmy harrison
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Apr, 2022 by Deb newton
Best Elder Law Attorneys! Drive 2 1/2 hrs just to go them. Very informative
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31 Jan, 2022 by Anna wirt
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Sanford Ira Horowitz, experienced Elder Law, Medical Malpractice attorney in Sonoma, CA with 1 reviews
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.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2012 by Teresa
I was referred to Sandy Horowitz by another attorney in town, who didn't do the kind of work I needed. I was very impressed with his knowledge and the way HE did all the work, leaving the headaches that I HAD had over the issues, to handle himself. I was suing a Hospice Company, the largest in Sonoma County, at the time, and the fact that he was dealing with doctors, and medical malpractice, I knew wasn't easy. He handled everything, and within the year, we settled out of court, which was MY choice. I would recommend him highly. He was honest, and there were NO surprises, and I had dealt with OTHER attorneys before, and have never before written a review. His staff responded promptly, and since we were dealing with my little boys death, the whole process COULD have been stressful, but he helped me in every way possible. I have a Family Law attorney who hasn't returned ANY of my calls for 6 months! So, this was an entirely different experience. I think the rapport we had during this awful experience, made everything MUCH better. I had been dealing with a hospice nurse who was doctoring records, and outright lying, and it ALL came out during the proceedings. I would recommend him, and have, to anyone needing a good attorney.
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John Allan Abaci, experienced Government attorney in Sonoma, CA with 12 reviews
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.
35,01
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
12 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Jun, 2020 by Nathan walter
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star star star star star
31 Aug, 2015 by Jacob a. miller
Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Aug, 2015 by Jay schulhof
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Olga Komar, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Sonoma, CA with 3 reviews
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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.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Jul, 2024 by Pam weiner
I cannot say enough good things about this wonderful caring woman. She was a vital part in dealing with our mother's estate after she passed. I don't know how my sister and I could have gotten through this without her.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Christine benson
Olga was excellent in all ways. I am a local Sonoma Valley Realtor who works with seniors and their families. Olga was quick to respond to my client in need of probating my client's mother's home. All went as intended and the dates were all in line with her estimation. I would highly recommend Olga Komar.
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14 Oct, 2022 by Antonina radchenko
Olga is a careful listener, and her attention to detail is meticulous. She helped us in a difficult situation, preparing the necessary powers of attorney in a timely manner. Her help was greatly appreciated!
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Rosamonde McNichol, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Sonoma, CA with 16 reviews
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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.
32,92
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
16 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Aug, 2023 by Jimmy harrison
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Apr, 2022 by Deb newton
Best Elder Law Attorneys! Drive 2 1/2 hrs just to go them. Very informative
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31 Jan, 2022 by Anna wirt
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Jackie Martens, experienced Domestic Violence, Family Law attorney in Sonoma, CA with 8 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.
32,39
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
8 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Oct, 2023 by Melissa van paris
After multiple calls, no answer and a voicemail….never received a call back.
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02 Mar, 2023 by Catalina wetzel
So beyond happy with the outcome of my case. A very lovely and caring law firm. Highly recommend it.
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02 Mar, 2023 by Dean zellers
I have known Bill for 27 years when i first met him at age 29. I just knew when i needed an attorney William (Bill) has been my first call, If he could not help me , he knew someone who could.
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Helen Lou Marsh, experienced  attorney in Sonoma, CA with 12 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.
29,43
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
3.8
11 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Oct, 2023 by Melissa van paris
After multiple calls, no answer and a voicemail….never received a call back.
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02 Mar, 2023 by Catalina wetzel
So beyond happy with the outcome of my case. A very lovely and caring law firm. Highly recommend it.
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star star star star star
02 Mar, 2023 by Dean zellers
I have known Bill for 27 years when i first met him at age 29. I just knew when i needed an attorney William (Bill) has been my first call, If he could not help me , he knew someone who could.
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Nancy E Cooke, experienced Estate Planning attorney in Sonoma, CA with 1 reviews
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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.
28,00
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Aug, 2022 by Regina baker
So far so good. Recommend
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Mary K. Piasta, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Sonoma, 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.
27,37
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
Google Maps
3.4
5 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Sep, 2024 by Sophia paganini
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Jul, 2022 by Juan manuel chavez
Great People and very professional
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06 Mar, 2022 by Catherine allen
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William H. Paynter, experienced Family Law attorney in Sonoma, CA with 11 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.
19,96
star star star star star
3.8/5
Google Maps
3.8
11 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Oct, 2023 by Melissa van paris
After multiple calls, no answer and a voicemail….never received a call back.
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02 Mar, 2023 by Catalina wetzel
So beyond happy with the outcome of my case. A very lovely and caring law firm. Highly recommend it.
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star star star star star
02 Mar, 2023 by Dean zellers
I have known Bill for 27 years when i first met him at age 29. I just knew when i needed an attorney William (Bill) has been my first call, If he could not help me , he knew someone who could.
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Xavier Adrien Marie Lavoipierre, experienced  attorney in Sonoma, 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.
19,96
star star star star star
3.8/5
Google Maps
3.8
11 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Oct, 2023 by Melissa van paris
After multiple calls, no answer and a voicemail….never received a call back.
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star star star star star
02 Mar, 2023 by Catalina wetzel
So beyond happy with the outcome of my case. A very lovely and caring law firm. Highly recommend it.
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star star star star star
02 Mar, 2023 by Dean zellers
I have known Bill for 27 years when i first met him at age 29. I just knew when i needed an attorney William (Bill) has been my first call, If he could not help me , he knew someone who could.
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Georgiann Rovai, experienced Family Law attorney in Sonoma, 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.
16,44
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Oct, 2014 by Josh
I would definitely recommend Georgiann. I first acquired her services around 11 years ago. I was clueless to the process and as a young man fighting for custody of his two children, I needed someone who could not only walk me step by step through the process but also to see me through a long brutal divorce. I would have to write a novel to give you all the details of how messy and brutal this divorce really was but instead I will tell you that without Georgiann I could have never made it through it. if you've ever been through a divorce like this you will know that it really never is over however Georgiann stood by me every step of the way and I received full custody of my children and more. it's not everyday that a young man ends up with full custody of his children and this requires one excellent lawyer. I feel like Georgiann is a part of my family now and will always have the utmost gratitude for her services.
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17 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Ms Rovai has helped me in the most difficult time of my life. She is personable and efficient. She always returns my phone calls and answers any questions. I feel confident in her ability to hand difficult situations. My divorce is still on going after 10 years and Mr. Rovai has kept me informed and has made sure that my interests are always taken care of. She is on time to every court hearing that I have had. I could not image going through my divorce without her by my side. I have recommended her in the past and will continue to recommend her in the future.
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10 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
I found her to be uninformed about most issues. She was also not liked by the judges involved, which was obvious. She doesn't return calls, even after several reminders, and it was a big mistake getting involved with her altogether. She still hasn't followed through with my ORIGINAL request, and I am not sure if she is just a terrible attorney in general, or is just lazy. Stay away from this attorney, you will thank me! I was referred by another lawyer who later apologized for the referral, he was unaware of her track record. She still has some money of mine in her coffers, and I am giving up hope, or maybe I just dread any more contact! She represented me in a divorce proceeding, and I was better off handling the proceedings myself! She seemed to have a big ego, and did NOT appreciate any input from her client, in my case, ME! I found if difficult to approach her with mistakes I felt she was making, and even though it was at MY expense, she put me on the defensive! I never was contacted by her to finish a MAJOR transaction she was to accomplish, and when I finally contacted HER, she said, "Oh, I forgot about that!" Well, I DIDN'T! And she still has my money, I asked for legal advice on what to do, and the resounding response was just to remove her, and retain another attorney. It will remain to be seen whether I have a fight to get my money that has been accrueing interest ( in HER account) back! I have a feeling I would never hear from her again, so I will follow the advice of other attorneys and replace her. I am dreading EVERYTHING about the future experience, just like I dreaded the current experience with her, at the time! Her bedside manner leaves much to be desired, and i never found out WHY the judges so obviously disliked her, but i am guessing it was her lack of knowledge of the law! SHE told me that the judges didn't like her, and this was BEFORE I saw it for myself. maybe she was warning me.
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Eric S. Gullotta, experienced Estate Planning, Probate attorney in Sonoma, 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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Kathleen J Richards, experienced Family Law attorney in Sonoma, 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.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Jan, 2014 by Paul
Ms Richards was brought into a contentious custody case at the suggestion of my attorney, Brian Del Bove. Her role was Minor's Counsel. She was touted as someone who was both fair, and someone who would enforce the orders and recommendations of an earlier ruling in family court. She has been a disaster for me and my two children. Although the court ordered therapy for my daughters, reconciliation therapy for me and my daughters to take place on a weekly basis, I've seen my youngest daughter just once in nine months, my eldest four times over nine months. Ms Richards has refused to push for therapy because--according to Mr Del Bove--she has a personal conflict with me their father. Ms Richards also appears to have been intimidated by the mother who has applied psychological blackmail against the children. I was the primary caregiver for years until I was diagnosed and treated for advanced prostate cancer three years ago. Ms Richards, rejecting the courts recommendations, has recently recommend to the court to strip me of legal and physical custody, returning my daughters to the mother. The mother has more than fifteen CPS reports filed against her. The mother's new husband had been arrested for assaulting her in front of the children when they were eight and ten, and attempting to rape my then ten year old. There had been a restraint order against the stepfather for five years. Ms Richards appears to have aligned herself with my former partner, a woman who was considered "inept" and "delusional" by a custody evaluator. The mother also has a terrible history of alcohol and drug use. Ms Richards has refused all communication with me. She would not respond to my emails or calls when my youngest daughter began missing classes. My daughter was either late or absent 40% of her class days over two semesters. Although my daughter, once a top student, was now failing math and also failed her SSAT's, Ms Richards refused to intervene, at least to my knowledge. My experience with this attorney has been dismal. After ten years of court battles, dozens of professionals, most well meaning and helpful, I have finally came across a professional who appears to have taken the low-road.
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Patricia Ann Gray, experienced  attorney in Sonoma, CA with 1 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.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Aug, 2017 by Ronald
My wife and I met with Dr. Gray to peacefully and fairly mediate our divorce but after over 30 hours and $14,000, I gave up because Dr. Gray was biased in favor of my wife. She said we could complete our divorce quickly and easily without lawyers, but in the end, she required us both to have our ownlawyers. She spend a good part of our time with some kind of marriage counseling in an attempt to have us reconcile. Marriage counseling that we did not ask for at $400 per hour. She said she got her psychology degree to better help people with their mediation but she used her psychology training to coerce and intimidate me into accepting my wifes requests. I do not recommend that people seeking a divorce use the services of Dr. Gray. Better to just get your own lawyers.
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Morgan E Cahill-Marsland, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Sonoma, 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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James Geagan, experienced Car Accident, Medical Malpractice attorney in Sonoma, 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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James Robert Woods, experienced Business, Financial Markets And Services attorney in Sonoma, 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Jeffrey Allen Haas, experienced Medical Malpractice, Wrongful Death attorney in Sonoma, 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Richard Jerome Hicks, experienced Litigation, Probate attorney in Sonoma, 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.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Julie Erin Patterson, experienced  attorney in Sonoma, 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Michael Ross Woods, experienced Business, Government attorney in Sonoma, 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.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Michael Morris Carlson, experienced  attorney in Sonoma, CA with  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.
4,00
star star star star star
0/5
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John Alexander Kelly, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Sonoma, CA with  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.
4,00
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0/5
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Jeffrey Allan Walter, experienced Government attorney in Sonoma, 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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Nazanin Ozlati, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Sonoma, 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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

Top Questions to Ask a Lawyer

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?

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

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