Lawyers map
>462
experienced lawyers
Filter by
20 Apr, 2017 by Brenda
Brittany did a great job in handling a guardianship matter for our family. She is very professional, attentive, and helpful. Even when her job was finished, she continued to guide our family in the right direction. I would highly recommend Brittany for any situation.
Read more
23 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I worked with Ms. O'Brien years ago when I needed an attorney for my divorce. She made what could have been a very difficult time in my life, go smoothly. She kept me informed about what was going on and made sure I understood the process. Since then I have gone to her for estate planning and will continue to use her for any legal needs I have in the future.
Read more
20 Aug, 2012 by Jeff h
My wife and I were in a car accident outside of Springfield Missouri when a semi truck pulled out of an intersection and did not see our truck. The semi struck my wife's side of the vehicle and caused us to over turn and roll off the road. While I suffered some injuries that were minor in comparison, she suffered head trauma and several broken bones along with internal bleeding.
Needless to say, I was a wreak, I could not even take in what had happened when the insurance company started calling, as we were rushed to the hospital I did not give a statement on scene and literally while she was in surgery I had the semi truck drivers insurance adjuster calling me to give him a recorded statement.
I tried to ignore their calls, but they were persistent. I needed to find an attorney and I did when I called Bishop and Hayes. From the moment I first made contact with their office, Tim called me back within minutes, he came to the hospital to meet with me the same day. I can't explain what a relief I felt after he left. The insurance and legal matters were all being handled, and I was able to just focus on my wife and our family.
We were first offered a settlement figure that was extremely lowball, so Tim worked to build a case against the driver was really understood the medical aspects of my wife's injuries in working with my doctors. They were able to get us a settlement that covered not only our immediate losses but gave us money that we needed for continued medical treatments for my wife.
I would just like to say thank you to the team at Bishop and Hayes and certainly Tim for all he was able to do for my wife and I.
Read more
20 Jul, 2016 by Lela
I hired Kara to help my parents set up their estate planning and LLC to make sure they had everything in order if something were to happen to them. She was very thorough and friendly. I felt like our needs were met and would highly recommend her.
Read more
06 Aug, 2018 by Sheri
I hired Ben Brockert for an EEO and American's with Disabilities Act case and he was really a great lawyer, with impeccable attention to detail!
Read more
16 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Very professional. Hired her and she handled my case thoroughly. I felt informed on all possible outcomes, no false promises and I was prepared for Court. Her advice is spot on (follow it!) and she truly protected the best interest of my child. I would recommend her to everyone that has a family law issue.
Read more
04 Feb, 2017 by Sherry
Words can not express the gratitude in our hearts for the incredible work done by Nick Smart and Steve Garner and the whole team at Strong-Garner-Bauer P.C. It took many hours of preparation, and we are so thankful for the outcome. Rebekah and Ann thank you so much as well as the other staff and attorneys who all had major roles. This was an uphill battle that took 5 years to culminate in a jury of peers, to finally say what we have been saying all along, that this kind of behavior will not be tolerated in Greene County Missouri. I would recommend this firm without hesitation. They took this case with all its baggage, knowing that cooperation from witnesses with police was limited. They are top notch and I would still recommend even if the outcome had been different. My advice... don't give up hope. We are still praying for an arrest.
Read more
25 Oct, 2018 by Randy
Jessica is exactly what I needed for the particular situation I was faced with. She provided thorough advice and empathy throughout the whole process. At times when I was very needy, she was unbelievably patient! I would absolutely recommend her!
Read more
21 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Pratt is a great lawyer. He helped me get exactly what I wanted. I'm very happy with the services I got from him. He was always at court when he needed to be. He always helped me with any questions I had. He always kept me updated on everything. He was good at communicating.
Read more
24 Jul, 2015 by Adam
I hired Gregory last month to help me with a case, i had a great experience, he went above and beyond to make sure everything in the case goes right , he was very nice , friendly and professional, he was abel to to win my case and what i had to pay was more than reasonable! !! I really recommend this lawer to any one .
Read more
25 Dec, 2024 by Frank
During the past three and one-half years, Andrea has successfully navigated what has evolved to a difficult, and at times , complicated case involving a minor child who is a relative. Although the other party has been extremely difficult, Andrea has been able to negotiate fair and reasonable termson multiple occassions.
Based upon our experience over the years we believe that the Missouri Ozarks and Springfield regions are blessed to have one of the best family law attorneys available from anywhere. Andrea is second to none.
Our opinions of Andrea:
Intelligent - Extremely well versed in family law and minor children.
Well spoken - Outstanding communicator so clients understand as well as being very effective in the courtroom.
Strategy/Risk Management - Very effective in offering various strategies and the benefits/risks associated with each strategy.
- Caring and purpose driven. Our experience and getting to know Andrea has shown that she is a very caring and purpose driven individual. While researching Andrea's accomplishments prior to hiring her, Andrea's background back to college days includes being involved in charitable organizations for the benefit of children.
- Listens. Andrea is an excellent listener. We have spent hours and hours discussing strategy, issues, failures, etc. so she can satisfly the clients needs.
- Honest. Andrea will give you her opinion whether you like it or not.
- Efficient. Andrea and her team are productive. Andrea's fees are not the lowest, but believe you will get just as much or more bang for the buck for output let alone the exceptional experiance and expertise.
- Communicator. Does an outstanding job of keeping us informed of every single filing, update, etc. All documents that were sent externally were first reviewed for approval.
- Team. We have never had a bad experience with any members of her team.
We did not just pick Andrea's name out of a Google search. Several attorneys were interviewed to be co-counsel. Should you be interested, below is why and how we selected Andrea.
At our attorney's request, Andrea was sought and retained in 2021 as co-counsel to contribute the knowledge, experience and time in a case that was becoming much more complicated and overwhelming than expected with no end in sight. Andrea was also selected as the person that would carry the torch so that our first attorney could focus on the needs of his other clients.
Several attorneys from Jefferson City, MO to Springfield, MO regions were interviewed by the family. Andrea was the only attorney that we requested our attorney to do a second interview. Our attorney called us after the interview, asked how we found her and said without doubt she is the most qualified attorney he knows of to handle the situation. To this day we wholeheartedly believe that Andrea is second to none when it comes to family law, particulary when it comes to the the mental, physical and overall wellbeing of minor children.
Read more
06 Jan, 2024 by Susie langebartel
18 Jul, 2023 by Dixon mark
I am posting this review on behalf of my good friend and church sister, Yvette McDaniels (as she doesn’t really use the Internet). The words are hers verbatim. She asked that I post them as her testimony of the help she received from Easter Law firm. – Mark Dixon
December 21st, 2018 I was hit by a drunk driver. I had the green light and he tried to follow the car ahead of him and beat me at the light. He was not successful. Totaled my little white Honda I had only had for almost two years and had just got it fixed.
He was very intoxicated and arrested. I was advised to get a “Good” lawyer by one of the firemen on the scene. I prayed and after various words and indicators (sent us 01/16/2019) led me to Joe Easter and his law firm and immediately there was a connection. I filed a police report and contacted my insurance provider. Because of the usual neck, back, and shoulder pain, from the angle of the collision and air bags deploying, I was advised and went to physical therapy for six weeks - February into March. But mid-April I noticed some new strange things. I couldn’t speak a whole sentence. I couldn’t write fluidly. I had to think before I could write my name. Same with texting. Several things happened plus my head was pounding. But the wakeup call came when, as I was coming down my hallway, I kept veering to the left into the wall.
A retired nurse friend took me to urgent care. [The doctor there] made a call and got me an appointment for an MRI at the Martin Center the next day, the 25th of April. Long story short I had two major brain bleeds (front left and two small rear right). Bottom line, that same day I went across the street to Cox South and had brain surgery. Surgery on the two major. Foam put in to absorb the bleeding of the two smaller bleeds. I had called Mr. Easter before they took me down to ICU and updated them.
Home 04/29/2019. Later an infection developed along the incision. 11/27/2019, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, another surgery to remove that part of my skull and set me up on antibiotics. Released 12/03/2019 but I had to go to I.V. antibiotic clinic (12/04/2019) for six weeks, last day 01/10/2020. When COVID eased up, I had replacement surgery 06/26/2020. I now have a metal plate, secured with titanium screws, in my head. Home 06/27/2020 to keep me from getting any kind of infection, including COVID. 07/20/2020 final appointment, stiches and staples removed. Lots of “If” instructions and I was released. Total six days ICU, total 7 days hospital.
Joe, Cheryl, Diane, and Julie were with me every step of the way. They sent me flowers just because and for my birthday, #60. I was afraid and sometimes impatient, tired, and cranky. They were the exact opposite, kind and explained everything. The whole process concerning head injuries and various appointments for the settlement. One with a Life Care Plan Doctor, another with a neuropsychologist. they helped me obtain financial help to pay bills until everything was settled. Despite the opposition’s pressure and games they fought for me and got me a good settlement. But also, they cared. Called me to check on me and called my friend Judy when I was unavailable in ICU. Step by step, through every surgery procedure and follow-up appointment they were there. It wasn’t just business. They showed me they cared. Even called on weekends and holidays. Especially when I spent Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in the I.V. clinic. We are now family.
But the best thing, after I got the check, they still stood with me. Helped me through the conferences and hearings for the felony part of the accident. Their part was basically over but they stuck with me beyond their responsibilities and helped me through the rest of it. Finally, closure and peace and they stood by me through it all, even when they didn’t have to. I am truly appreciative and they were and are an awesome blessing.
Thank you Joe, Cheryl, Diane, and Julie!
Love and Prayers
Yvette
Read more
10 Apr, 2023 by Shannon
If you ever find yourself or a loved one needing representation for a personal injury case, Easter Law Firm is the firm to use!! From my first contact with the firm, my son and myself were treated with compassion and respect. I am forever grateful for the countless work they put into my son’s case- they truly fought for him and for the absolute best outcome possible.
Read more
25 Nov, 2024 by Lisa denief
We are very pleased with our decision to hire Richard, As our attorney, to help us put our family trust together. First of all, he is genuinely a very nice guy and made us feel very comfortable. He was very prompt with our appointments and getting back to us with any questions that we needed answered. We would highly recommend him to anyone looking for help with their family matters. Thanks again Richard we appreciate you.
Vince and Lisa
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Robert pearce
My wife and I called Mr. Russell for legal advice regarding the death of a relative. He was first and foremost compassionate and caring. He listened and asked questions to gain a thorough understanding of the issues before providing expert answers to our questions. He explained everything and gave us some great options that helped us considerably. Mr. Russell is very personable and great to work with. We will definitely contact him for any future estate planning needs, and recommend him to friends and family.
Read more
19 Sep, 2024 by Katrina sangineto
"I had an excellent experience working with Richard! He was extremely helpful and a pleasure to deal with throughout the process. He responded to my inquiries promptly and provided all the information I needed, making the whole experience smooth and stress-free.
Read more
08 Jan, 2022 by Kathy abbett
28 Jul, 2020 by Michelle koenig
When we first met with Deborah we were impressed with her true compassion for my well being. It wasn't a numbers game. Her first mission was to make sure my health was taken care of. She is smart, personable, and knows what she's doing! Her team has the same strengths. In a reasonable amount of time she took care of what we needed. And the result was greatly appreciated. Deborah and her office are always available for calls and emails. I recommend her. (I have actually already recommended her.)
Read more
27 Dec, 2019 by A vapor
Deborah Dodge came highly recomended
Read more
01 Jan, 2024 by Garrett klein
Rina goes above and beyond what she is required to do. She has done so much for my fiancé and I. I can tell she truly cares about the outcome of her clients as well. Thanks for all you do!
Read more
28 Nov, 2023 by Michael brennan
Rina is one of the best lawyers ever :) She's professional, deeply cares and does a wonderful job with all legwork and proceedings
Read more
01 Aug, 2023 by Amy steam
Responsive, knowledgeable and kind: the best kind of immigration lawyer.
Read more
29 May, 2024 by Ty camp
Eric is an outstanding attorney who provided exceptional service. His expertise, professionalism, and dedication to my case were evident from the start. He was always responsive and took the time to explain everything clearly. Thanks to Eric, I felt confident and well-represented throughout the entire process. Highly recommend!
Read more
13 Sep, 2023 by Alfred mcgee
They acted very professional to me and almost like family to me.
Read more
08 Sep, 2022 by Angie rieschel
Susanna is an amazing attorney in every respect. She's reasonable in her fees and very attentive to her clients. She's a very caring Guardian ad Litem and one of the best attorneys around.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Larry f
Smart attorney
Read more
01 Dec, 2023 by Dana holden choate
14 Jan, 2023 by Annie collier
31 Oct, 2024 by Teri summerfield
I can't say enough good things about Jesse and Audra. They were an amazing team that helped me through all of the situations that came up during my 5 year journey. I'm so grateful for them answering all of my questions and just guiding me through this process flawlessly. It wasn't an easy journey at times, but so well worth it in the end. I'm now moving forward in life in a much better financial position. Thank you so much, Licata Bankruptcy, for everything over the last 5+ years! I wouldn't be where I am now without you.
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Wendy sundstrom
I had a great experience at Licata!! Jordyn was my attorney, and he was excellent at explaining things, so we could fully understand . I would recommend him to anyone facing financial problems including Bankruptcy.
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Colin judy
They made the process extremely easy. I’d recommend Jordyn to anyone thinking about filing. If you’re on the fence about making the decision, give them a call. They were amazing to work with.
Read more
20 Jun, 2024 by Amber king
I needed a quick document review using my legal plan insurance (MetLife) provided by my employer and Robertson Law Firm answered my questions and looked over all of my documents quickly and thoroughly. He also answered all of my followup questions the following day. I was very happy with the service I received! Would definitely use them again in the future!
Read more
31 May, 2024 by Jarrod underdown
Joe Robertson and his team are professional, prompt, and have been very helpful over the years I've used their services. I recommend them to anyone that needs family law assistance.
Read more
19 Feb, 2024 by Chelsey millsap
Joe has been my attorney for the last 8-ish years. He has morals and values that you can tell lead his compassion and not just money. Nicole his paralegal has been by his side the entire time and does an absolute wonderful job!
Read more
12 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Coring was very kind and thoughtful. He explained my case thoroughly, and provided excellent service.
Read more
19 Jun, 2018 by Anita
Mr. Coring was my representative during disability court. He called me to introduce himself in advance for information about my case. And how I felt about things concerning it. He arrived before the hearing and discussed what to expect during the session. The hearing went according to his explanation. He was professional and courteous. Thorough. And concerned for my needs and pain during the session. Thank you.
Read more
13 Jun, 2018 by Gara
Samuel coring was very helpful,he was very through with everything,he took every measure and step to make sure we won our case after a very long and frustrating 2 years.i have recommended him to other people that wants to file disability.
Read more
13 Jul, 2024 by Alana thomas
11 May, 2024 by Geri wilson
It was such a pleasure working with the Law Offices of Bryan Musgrave who represented me in getting my settlement from an insurance company for a car accident I had incurred. Specifically, Mariana was prompt and professional and cared about me through the process, checking with me often to allow me to know how things were progressing. Emily Titus was a delight, as she handled my case with trust and kindness, never making me feel like I asked too many questions. I would highly trust, and recommend them to be your representative in any kind of legal matter where you need your best interests looked after.
Read more
29 Jan, 2024 by Robert crowell
I was injured when a pickup truck hit me walking out of a Walmart supercenter in south Ozark a few years ago. I hired Musgrave law firm to settle the lawsuit against the company in Branson.
After a couple of weeks of corresponding he disappeared on me and stopped returning my calls and his secretary wouldn't tell me anything nor his paralegals. Initially he told me the lawsuit was worth 250,000 but settled for less than 100,000 . I got paid incrementally and was supposed to receive another 5000 but after I started complaining to the board about him he sent it to VA because they were requesting money but when I asked them they said don't do that.
I am a disabled VETERAN AND BRIAN MUSGRAVE IS THE WORST ATTORNEY I'VE USED
Read more
13 Jul, 2024 by Alana thomas
11 May, 2024 by Geri wilson
It was such a pleasure working with the Law Offices of Bryan Musgrave who represented me in getting my settlement from an insurance company for a car accident I had incurred. Specifically, Mariana was prompt and professional and cared about me through the process, checking with me often to allow me to know how things were progressing. Emily Titus was a delight, as she handled my case with trust and kindness, never making me feel like I asked too many questions. I would highly trust, and recommend them to be your representative in any kind of legal matter where you need your best interests looked after.
Read more
29 Jan, 2024 by Robert crowell
I was injured when a pickup truck hit me walking out of a Walmart supercenter in south Ozark a few years ago. I hired Musgrave law firm to settle the lawsuit against the company in Branson.
After a couple of weeks of corresponding he disappeared on me and stopped returning my calls and his secretary wouldn't tell me anything nor his paralegals. Initially he told me the lawsuit was worth 250,000 but settled for less than 100,000 . I got paid incrementally and was supposed to receive another 5000 but after I started complaining to the board about him he sent it to VA because they were requesting money but when I asked them they said don't do that.
I am a disabled VETERAN AND BRIAN MUSGRAVE IS THE WORST ATTORNEY I'VE USED
Read more
10 Dec, 2024 by Scar _colson
Teresa was great at explaining how the legal process works and always had a smile. I would definitely recommend!
Read more
14 Feb, 2024 by Anthony nardo
13 Feb, 2024 by D hok
Teresa was extremely thoughtful, and helped every chance she could throughout the process. She did amazing at returning messages and keeping us updated, as well as explaining everything in detail. I would definitely recommend her, she made everything less scary and was there to fight for us.
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Amy s.
Rick was able to guide me through a very tedious and stressful experience which I knew absolutely nothing about. He is extremely organized and thorough and quick to get me any answers I needed. The entire staff was invested in making sure I was happy with their service. I highly recommend Rick Van Pelt!
Read more
07 Mar, 2024 by Leroy lancaster
The manager in there is more helpful than any major around here bend over backwards for you one in Ozark she can't even discuss nothing without being read out in a lobby with everybody
Read more
14 Feb, 2024 by Micah dronberger
05 Feb, 2025 by Dylan fletcher
Very thankful for the help and guidance! Speeding tickets are never fun to deal with. Ted made it easy.
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Maddie fletcher
Ted has been great in helping me! Fast communication and easy to understand- I can’t recommend him enough. Thank you for all you did!
Read more
12 Jan, 2025 by Gracey olivia
I am 100% satisfied with my experience! The process was so easy I forgot I even had a ticket. They are great about updating as well, 10/10 recommend!
Read more
4.8
16 Reviews
4.3
312 Reviews
17 Jan, 2025 by Ashley little
My life changed forever 6 months due to a car accident. While in the hospital, not knowing if my husband would live or die, I was lost and insurance companies were already calling. So, like you may be, I started reading reviews on attorneys. I chose Aaron Sachs, and it was the best decision I could have made.
My attorney was Joel Block and from the very first conversation he put my mind at ease. He treated my family like we were his only clients, like we mattered. Every email or phone call was answered immediately, and Joel guided us thru the process and went above and beyond for us. He settled our claim quickly, which when you lose everything and the bills are piling up, means a lot.
So, if you’re in the same position I was I highly recommend you just call. The whole staff is great and will be there for you until your case is settled.
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by Alexander quinn
This was my first experience needing to file legal actions. From the first phone call throughout the entire process, Will and his team went above and beyond to handle my case. I found them to be available to answer my questions as well as reassure me when the case seemed to just drag on due to the other party. This was such a stressful experience for me personally & I can’t begin to say how much I appreciate Will & his team for not only taking care of the case but caring about my personal wellbeing.
Read more
19 Nov, 2024 by Destiny gamer
I had will sachs as my attorney and he was probably the best attorney I’ve ever had. He’d answer my emails incredibly quick and he never seemed annoyed or anything and he answered every question to his best ability going above and beyond. I 10/10 recommend him. The whole company itself is amazing.
Read more
05 Feb, 2025 by William ginger
I felt like there are no better attorneys than strong law firm that helped me with my case, specially since i was familiar
with legal system how it works
Read more
02 Feb, 2025 by Queenb
We could not recommend this law firm more! Not only do they go above and beyond, they work with you as a friend. We were always informed about what was happening with our case. In our situation you could just tell they felt what we were going through and that was a blessing.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Rani hutcherson
Nick and Caitlin were great! They helped me quick and efficiently.
Read more
05 Feb, 2025 by William ginger
I felt like there are no better attorneys than strong law firm that helped me with my case, specially since i was familiar
with legal system how it works
Read more
02 Feb, 2025 by Queenb
We could not recommend this law firm more! Not only do they go above and beyond, they work with you as a friend. We were always informed about what was happening with our case. In our situation you could just tell they felt what we were going through and that was a blessing.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Rani hutcherson
Nick and Caitlin were great! They helped me quick and efficiently.
Read more
05 Feb, 2025 by William ginger
I felt like there are no better attorneys than strong law firm that helped me with my case, specially since i was familiar
with legal system how it works
Read more
02 Feb, 2025 by Queenb
We could not recommend this law firm more! Not only do they go above and beyond, they work with you as a friend. We were always informed about what was happening with our case. In our situation you could just tell they felt what we were going through and that was a blessing.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Rani hutcherson
Nick and Caitlin were great! They helped me quick and efficiently.
Read more
05 Feb, 2025 by William ginger
I felt like there are no better attorneys than strong law firm that helped me with my case, specially since i was familiar
with legal system how it works
Read more
02 Feb, 2025 by Queenb
We could not recommend this law firm more! Not only do they go above and beyond, they work with you as a friend. We were always informed about what was happening with our case. In our situation you could just tell they felt what we were going through and that was a blessing.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Rani hutcherson
Nick and Caitlin were great! They helped me quick and efficiently.
Read more
Find Your Lawyer
By Practice Area
-
Personal Injury
-
Business
-
Family Law
-
Criminal Defense
-
Estate Planning
-
Real Estate
-
Litigation
-
Car Accident
-
Workers Compensation
-
Probate
-
Child Custody
-
Adoption
-
Child Support
-
Wrongful Death
-
Insurance
-
Elder Law
-
Appeals
-
Juvenile Law
-
Trusts
-
Government
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Federal Crime
-
Consumer Protection
-
Mediation
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Bankruptcy
-
Debt Collection
-
Divorce
-
Sex Crime
-
Tax
-
Civil Rights
-
Immigration
-
Debt Settlement
-
Discrimination
-
Domestic Violence
-
DUI / DWI
-
Entertainment
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Intellectual Property
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Class Action
-
Drug Crime
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Employment / Labor
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
Top Questions to Ask a Lawyer
When meeting with a lawyer for the first time, it's important to ask the right questions to understand their expertise and determine if they're the right fit for your legal needs. Here are some top questions to consider:
-
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. -
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. -
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. -
What is your approach to handling cases like mine?
Learn about their strategy, whether they prefer negotiation, mediation, or litigation. -
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. -
How will you communicate with me throughout the process?
Establish expectations for updates, preferred communication methods, and response times. -
What is the likely timeline for resolving my case?
Get an estimate of how long the process may take from start to finish. -
Do you have references from past clients?
Testimonials or references can provide insight into the lawyer's professionalism and effectiveness. -
What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
Understanding potential challenges helps you prepare and sets realistic expectations. -
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:
-
Verify Their License:
Check with your state's bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and in good standing. -
Experience and Specialization:
Ensure the lawyer specializes in the area of law relevant to your case. -
Disciplinary Record:
Look up any history of disciplinary actions or complaints through the state bar association. -
Client Reviews and Testimonials:
Read reviews on legal directories like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge client satisfaction. -
Professional Memberships:
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:
-
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:
-
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.
-
Hourly Rate:
-
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.
-
Complexity of the Case:
-
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.
