Lawyers map
>1.9k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
01 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I have retained Mr Toombs' services for roughly 6 years now. He has dealt with my catastrophic claim without fail. He has been attentive, responded in a speedy manner and has always put my best interests first. He has been a well of knowledge and has helped me in a multitude of other matters. I would recommend him to others if God forbid they need such services.
Read more
24 Feb, 2015 by Mary
HIRED ME FOR A NURSING POSITION, NO CALLS NO RESPONSE, NO NOTHING!!!! HE SET ME UP FOR WHAT WAS TO BE A NURSING JOB BUT NOTHING CAME OF IT.
Read more
23 Jun, 2014 by Robert
Mr. Toombs asked me to help him located a home for his handicapped client. when I was able to help him, I phoned him three times. He never returned my calls.
Read more
02 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Whilst I was being represented by Ben Manson, i was repeatedly told he will throw out my case and tell the opposing attorneys to do whatever they see fit. Other than that, no issues.
Read more
04 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
This attorney handled a family law case for me. I had already had to fire the previous lawyer due to extremely poor representation and figured because he was less expensive, I need to hire one with more family law experience and who's hourly rate was at least $300/hr. This is the rate that I was told by other attorney friends that I needed to pay for a "good" lawyer. She required a retainer in the amount of $2500. I only needed her to send a response to the Referee's recommendation and correct major errors in the child support calculation and attend the final hearing in front of the Judge. Ms. Talarico started out as a very professional lawyer (responded to most emails and sent a breakdown of what she was doing and charging me off the retainer). That is, until we went to the hearing. She was not prepared (although charged me additional money on top of the $2500 to "prepare" for the hearing. I had to point out numerous times to her the errors in the calculation. She also did not honor other requests I had as her client (I.e. Fight to include Father's second income, which is very significant) resulting in a lower child support amount. Both attorneys met behind closed doors with the judge without any clients present for hours. And NONE of my requests were discussed in regards to the defendant Father. On top of everything, during a discussion in the hallway with opposing counsel, I called OP a liar (she was aggressive and stating untrue statements about her client to me) and my attorney, Ms Talarico YELLED at ME! I was completely embarrassed. And THIS is what I paid a total of $3571 for. (In addition to the last attorney of $1100). Makes me sick how these attorneys ask for an insane amount of money from people and do so little for such important cases involving children and people's lives. And despite my complaints, she threatened to sue me for every dime instead negotiate a lesser bill.. $30 for every 6 minutes this attorney charges. With a law degree and 31 years of experience, it takes her 24 minutes to write a two sentence letter and stick a copy in the mail. You will be very sorry if you hire this attorney.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
Read more
07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
Read more
17 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I know this is going to sound very harsh but she is a serial liar, I am not not even exaggerating here. She will outright lie about the progress of a case, lie about the what stage the application progress in on, and only provide false promises. I have not seen something like this. Work in a timely manner for once.
Read more
27 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Aimee is an excellent attorney. She is very knowledgeable and strategic. Very transparent and responsive. Helped push my case through quickly.
Read more
17 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Very irresponsive to emails and very unprofessional. It’s not like she’s working for free or for charity. My paperwork were delayed by a month because of her lousy work. I don’t recommend using her services and if possible ask your company to use some other service.
Read more
12 Oct, 2024 by Artie smirnov
These people are horrible.
I made arrangements with them multiple times then they garnish my bank account and I call to try to work again with them and make arrangements they don’t follow through and take everything. Then when I try to call them they twist my words blame everything on someone else and speak to me like it’s my fault and I’m incompetent.
The money they garnished which was way more then what was agreed on was the money for my partners insulin. I guess they are so good at their jobs not sure how they can sleep at night. if someone works with them im so sorry truly. one day karma will catch up im sure of it.
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Jennifer latorre
I wish I could give them zero stars. These people are extremely rude and have terrible customer service. Not only did they garnish my wages TWICE after the debt was completely paid, but they refused to work with me in getting my refund sent to me! My debt was paid on August 23rd. They owe me nearly 2k and they told me a check was mailed to me on September 18th. I received a letter from them dates September 17th stating my debt has been paid in full, but it’s now October 1st and still no check. I’ve called a few times to follow up and they (various representatives and a supervisor) have legit spoken to me like I’m a POS, just very condescending and snippy. They said the mail delay is not their problem and there was nothing further they would do for me. I suggested some other options of getting my refund to me like direct deposit, cancelling the check and sending a new one, or I was willing to go in person to their office to pick up the check. They would lot work with me in any way. I’m disgusted with this place.
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Cs
The creditor they are representing has never contacted me. I do not have a debt, but they are willing to represent.
Read more
02 Sep, 2021 by Jim
The complaint about 17k is nonsense, designed solely by an abusive alcoholic to smear me. He was convicted of drunk driving twice, went to jail, got out, got drunk and assaulted his wife, who promptly filed for divorce before he went back to jail for 8 months for the assault and alcohol. He hired me before he went to jail. I received an agreed retainer fee, knowing the extensive time required to handle his case while he is in jail. I handled his divorce, custody and friend of the court matters, went to court hearings for him, visited him in jail and spoke with him by phone, kept the case alive so he could see his child when he got out of jail. I accomplished all that, filed pleadings when needed, basically spent 8-9 months handling his case while he sat in jail for alcohol and wife abuse. I successfully fought with court staff to preserve his parenting time, but when he finally was released from jail he didn’t like the very generous parenting time order from the court so he fired me. I sent him a final bill, all hourly rate as agreed. He used up the retainer and still owed 2.5k. Six months later he hadn’t paid, said he never got the bill, asked me to deliver a copy to his home that evening, I did so, he wouldn’t answer the door so I left it in a secure spot on his porch. He still wouldn’t pay. Just an angry and hostile alcoholic who refused to accept responsibility for his actions. I offered several times to meet with him and discuss his issues, but he refused. He complained to the state bar, who agreed with my performance and dismissed his complaint. He of course can write anything he wants in this website, but that doesn’t make it true.
Another complaint is the family friend who hired me to file her divorce, changed her mind, and a year later asked me again, sort of, then didn’t like the timing and the cost. I couldn’t make her happy no matter what I did. More dishonest and one-sided venting , misplaced frustration from an unhappy marriage and divorce. The state bar defended my actions.
I have never mishandled one penny of client funds in 45 years. The lady who claimed “con man” never once mentioned such with me, greatly appreciated my starting her divorce case quickly and without the customary fee, met me at my office twice, voluntarily paid additional fees months later and without being requested, and we talked often to make sure she was safe and protected legally snd financially. I later had an accident and was medically off of work for a few months, and then I suddenly learned she hired another attorney, which is her right, but then defamed me and said all sorts of uncalled for nasty things about me, name-calling, dishonest things, to the court. She never mentioned them to me, wouldn’t talk with me, just vented and attacked, without discussing any of her claims with me. She needed another attorney after I was disabled, but her attacks and name calling were dishonest.
I’ve been in practice for 45 years in all types of cases, and have a completely clean record with the State Bar. My clients virtually always become my long-term friends. Only recently, a few disgruntled divorce clients have decided to vent and attack me. With misplaced hostility. And at times to avoid paying their bills. Their complaints are unfounded, the State Bar complaints have been denied, and the fee obligations have been upheld in court.
I have provided a wide range of legal services for 45 years, with an impeccable reputation for legal service with kindness and efficiency, often with low fee rates. I’m disappointed by the recent baseless complaints written here, efforts to discuss the issues were denied, and this AVVO service does not demand honesty in their complaints.
The out of state people wanted a 5k service for 1.5k, I tried to help them but didn’t get it done timely, they accepted my work then wanted their money back. I did so, thus worked for free for them. I couldn’t make them happy.
Read more
26 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I wish I would have seen the other reviews on this con man before I was suckered. I had the exact same experience with bogus medical excuses, adjourning things without even telling me, ripping me off and never sending one invoice, meeting with me at an office that was not his.
I am currently putting together a detailed report with specific dates to file with the Michigan Bar. I have something called integrity and I will not allow this person to continue to victimize innocent people.
Read more
08 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Jim Williams represented me from Dec 2017 to Aug 2018 for legal divorce proceedings. He requested a retainer payment of $5000.00, which I paid through a colleague of his, since he did not accept credit card. I was referred to him by the same colleague. My situation was complicated, so Jim assured me his expertise, and requested additional money be added to the retainer in the amount of $10,000.00, which brings the total retainer sum to $15,000.00. I had to replace him in August 2018, because he had done nothing substantial, and almost had me placed in legal default to the initial divorce compliant. Fast forward to March 2019, Jim Williams never provided a breakdown of costs, and took advantage of my vulnerable position during a tumultuous divorce proceeding. During this time, Jim authored but 3 documents.
• Motion for Parenting Time.
• Response to initial divorce complaint, 5 months later.
• Response to a motion.
I was compelled to replace Mr. Williams for more responsive and dutiful legal divorce representation. On 4 separate occasions, in August 2018, September 2018, and February of 2019, I requested an invoice and breakdown of services, and wanted money back. No invoice of any kind had been received. After I notified Jim that he would be replaced, he stated he was owed additional money and an itemized bill would be forthcoming. He said, just pay the $2300, and an invoice could be provided later. He claimed I owed him money via text message, but did not substantiate amount. No further funds have been flowed in direction.
An update as of 3/8/19, Jim Williams, was informed that legal action would be pursued to his non-action, and was given a final attempt to reconcile. He provided an invoice the next day, and placed it onto my parent’s house behind a sign on the porch. This is the first and only invoice he provided. He asserts he sent one back in August 2018, when he was replaced. He now substantiates a bill for over $17K, which is erroneous, and I challenge his assertion of the time and effort placed in the breakdown of his bill. None of the discovery, interrogatories, or any substantial work was completed or even started. I had to hire another attorney to begin the real divorce work. Further, he is attempting to change the narrative that he sent the invoice in the past, claiming I am being dishonest with him. He back-dated his letters to fit his dishonest narrative. “Various phone calls, conference meetings” unsubstantiated line items are now in his invoice. They are nonsense and intellectually dishonest, claiming 3 or 4 hours of work for simple errands. Again, Mr. Williams composed 3 documents, and was given warning that if he did not reply to the original divorce complaint filed in Dec 2017, I would be placed in default. He finally responded five months after the original complaint. Moreover, Mr. Williams is prone to make cancellations and postponements due to convenient and likely bogus claims of ailing health issues, with multiple heart attacks, concussion, car accidents, funerals, as evidenced during the divorce proceeding as well as just recently when he was asked for a cost breakdown. The only motivation that apparently worked was the threat of legal recourse. I will be aggressively following up with the Grievance Board in Michigan with retained legal counsel.
Read more
12 Oct, 2024 by Artie smirnov
These people are horrible.
I made arrangements with them multiple times then they garnish my bank account and I call to try to work again with them and make arrangements they don’t follow through and take everything. Then when I try to call them they twist my words blame everything on someone else and speak to me like it’s my fault and I’m incompetent.
The money they garnished which was way more then what was agreed on was the money for my partners insulin. I guess they are so good at their jobs not sure how they can sleep at night. if someone works with them im so sorry truly. one day karma will catch up im sure of it.
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Jennifer latorre
I wish I could give them zero stars. These people are extremely rude and have terrible customer service. Not only did they garnish my wages TWICE after the debt was completely paid, but they refused to work with me in getting my refund sent to me! My debt was paid on August 23rd. They owe me nearly 2k and they told me a check was mailed to me on September 18th. I received a letter from them dates September 17th stating my debt has been paid in full, but it’s now October 1st and still no check. I’ve called a few times to follow up and they (various representatives and a supervisor) have legit spoken to me like I’m a POS, just very condescending and snippy. They said the mail delay is not their problem and there was nothing further they would do for me. I suggested some other options of getting my refund to me like direct deposit, cancelling the check and sending a new one, or I was willing to go in person to their office to pick up the check. They would lot work with me in any way. I’m disgusted with this place.
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Cs
The creditor they are representing has never contacted me. I do not have a debt, but they are willing to represent.
Read more
12 Oct, 2024 by Artie smirnov
These people are horrible.
I made arrangements with them multiple times then they garnish my bank account and I call to try to work again with them and make arrangements they don’t follow through and take everything. Then when I try to call them they twist my words blame everything on someone else and speak to me like it’s my fault and I’m incompetent.
The money they garnished which was way more then what was agreed on was the money for my partners insulin. I guess they are so good at their jobs not sure how they can sleep at night. if someone works with them im so sorry truly. one day karma will catch up im sure of it.
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Jennifer latorre
I wish I could give them zero stars. These people are extremely rude and have terrible customer service. Not only did they garnish my wages TWICE after the debt was completely paid, but they refused to work with me in getting my refund sent to me! My debt was paid on August 23rd. They owe me nearly 2k and they told me a check was mailed to me on September 18th. I received a letter from them dates September 17th stating my debt has been paid in full, but it’s now October 1st and still no check. I’ve called a few times to follow up and they (various representatives and a supervisor) have legit spoken to me like I’m a POS, just very condescending and snippy. They said the mail delay is not their problem and there was nothing further they would do for me. I suggested some other options of getting my refund to me like direct deposit, cancelling the check and sending a new one, or I was willing to go in person to their office to pick up the check. They would lot work with me in any way. I’m disgusted with this place.
Read more
02 Apr, 2024 by Cs
The creditor they are representing has never contacted me. I do not have a debt, but they are willing to represent.
Read more
24 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
This attorney is all about HIS bottom line. He makes it clear that he has no real interest in anything that benefits you, the client. He did not even show up to my hearing or the settlement conference. He used other attorneys that appear to be his pawns and these pawns lack any real knowledge of how to get effective results. He and his "legal team" seem to be very good at keeping the client ill informed. After provider fees and his "costs", there was a remaining balance due to me for under $25. You read that right: UNDER $25. The real kick in the rear is in a letter to me spelling out the "award", he had the nerve to state that I should "consult a financial advisor so I did not squander away the money". I would advise you to seek out other legal counsel, as this attorney has done me a huge irreversible injustice!
Read more
27 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
To be short and to the point, Mr. Timothy M. Hartner was Hired by myself and I after no other Lawyers would take my case.
Mr. Hartner has done everything to make me out to be a liar, like the first attorney, stating he did't tell me to turn down the $1,750.00 settlement for my first party Lawsuit which I still Have the copy and proof of that. Then he came to my house and told me to sign and release State Farm from all Obligations and that he would make the Third Party Lawsuit pay for Damages and $20,000.00 In MRI & Medical Bills so I signed.
Keep in mind he never called me, never kept me abreast on anything,no communication. I'm not going any further, He's also put in his letters of filings that I threatened him while requesting my file to take to another attorney, which he's making it very difficult for me to get and charging me a hundred dollar deposit +++ for additional copies. So before you hire an attorney Here in Michigan anywhere, do your research on that lawyer before you sign him to represent you!
Read more
18 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Though appointed as guardian and conservator, Mr. Fraser was MIA as guardian and focused on getting paid a conservator. He did nothing of significance to protect his protected individual. In fact, he appeared to be pursuing his own agenda as opposed to the best interests of his protected individual. He is an aggressive lawyer who pushes the ethical limits of the legal profession. As a public administrator he has crossed far over that line. Avoid him in any capacity.
Read more
09 Jun, 2014 by Anthony
Thomas Brennan Fraser - I believe this man is rude and unprofessional at the least, and could possibly be unethical (unproven at this time, though). I believe he should not be a court-appointed guardian as he has not represented my parent in a manner that meets my or her expectations or needs - most if not all of her pleas have been ignored by him from what I can see. I believe he is more interested in the needs of the nursing facilities than the elderly people he represents as their "guardian". If you hear of his name mentioned as a potential guardian for your loved one, PLEASE CHECK HIM OUT THOROUGHLY and tell the judge "no" - pick another guardian. I feel from his treatment of my mother's case that he may treat many of his clients the same - please avoid heartbreak by requesting the court not appoint him as a guardian for your loved one. One final word: RUN!
Read more
01 Sep, 2024 by Tony
We hired Mr. Elias regarding our Tenant eviction, which was living and using our business without a contract. He came to the court and it happened that he knew the The other Lawyer and they settled there and I took a loss. I pay him around 4000 for doing nothing. I still have to hire somebody else we take care of that case with way less money.
Read more
19 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Elias to help me with a real estate matter between my small business and another small business owner. Mr. Elias was very enthusiastic and very confident about my case, strongly encouraging me to pursue litigation. However, he did not submit paperwork to the court in a timely manner, although he said he did (it is possible to check this online.) And when we went to court, he did an about-face and told me my case was doomed and guaranteed to lose, and I should give up. I was really shocked by the complete turn around in advice and effort. I was not able to resolve my concerns with Mr. Elias amicably.
Read more
19 Jul, 2022 by Jason
I consulted with his office regarding status of my relationship with heather Atnip , and he lied to federal judge in Wisconsin ( lynn eddelman ) . Collusion also with heather atnip in relation to lies provided to federal judge …. I contacted places he requested my information, and will have that proof also , as it is part of those medical files he requested. Authorization I gave to him through my attorney, in which he provided to my providers , but stated to judge I did not authorize .. lies about discover attorneys did for 2 years , and colluded lies about my brain injury and ability to mentally function .
Read more
26 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Regina was more interested in building her reputation with the opposing attorney or feeling sorry for the opposing side in the divorce than in representing and protecting my interests. She had insufficient knowledge of Michigan custody and child support law and insufficient knowledge of how spousal support works in SE Michigan. She also had woefully insufficient knowledge of how retirement funds are settled during divorce - costing me thousands of dollars in additional fees paid to other "experts" within her "network" in order to get answers that were unusable within the final settlement. In the end, I essentially wound up representing myself (doing research, filing motions, etc.). It felt like she was learning divorce law from scratch on my nickel. A complete waste of time and a huge waste of money.
Read more
25 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Marc represented me in a contract dispute. He chaired high fees and pushed the envelope when settlement was on the table 3 times. He recommended to turn down settlements. We ended up in mediation and I had to settle for half of what the very first settlement offer was. Meanwhile, my attorney fees were 4 times what I was awarded.
Read more
06 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
I am very dissatisfied with Mr Cunningham's performance. He spent more than a year on my case in getting a correct Domestic Relations Order properly written. After twelve times having this D.R.O. sent to the plan administrator it was denied each and every time. Plan administrator informs me Mr. Cunningham was given exact reasons why the D.R.O. was not excepted. He would send in another revised D.R.O. only to make changes where they were not needed _ ( just sabotage the D.R.O.). The Michigan Bar refuses to "ruin" his reputation. I have lost over a year of (my ex-husband's) pension because of his negligence. And no where to turn.
Read more
13 May, 2023 by John
Mr Bowen is a very inexperienced lawyer that mismanaged my case. He gave away our leverage, made false statements to me, and he was surprised multiple times by our case. Stay away as he ford not know Rost he is doing.
Read more
21 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Roy Johnson is a bottom feeding lawyer. He took 100,000.00 for a divorce case while collaborating with the other party. He hid evidence, committed perjury and intentionally mislead the court. Currently being sued. Stay away!!! Legalized criminal!
Read more
02 Apr, 2013 by Deanna
he was to represent me in an adversary proceeding in bankruptcy. I got him through my pre-paid legal services program. He let the case slip through the cracks. For more info see my legal malpractice case against him filed in Macomb County Circuit Court. He did not ever speak with me, prepare me for trial, conduct discovery or even show up at trial. As a result, a quarter of a million dollar judgment was entered against me. If you hire him you must be sure he is meeting with you to prepare for trial and that he is actually ready for and shows up at the trial.
Read more
05 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
No help, took my money and did nothing!
Read more
18 Aug, 2023 by Freedom eagle
Tried to overthrow democracy. Would not recommend. Still pretends he didn't. Should be in jail at least.
Read more
27 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
In my case, my car was stolen. The thieves apparently went through a toll and racked up $20 in toll fees. After getting a bunch of letters from his firm, I called to ask what was going on. I quickly realized it was a zombie call center, not a real law firm... The call center staff (not lawyers, of course) were very difficult to deal with. All they wanted was their money. The required that I send a police report. I went to Office Max and faxed the report that the officer gave me. Couple days later I called, since I hadn't heard from Nicole or her call-center zombie army. Apparently, that initial report wasn't good enough for ol' Nicole -- the zombies steadfastly insisted that I send the actual FULL police report. I had to call the police department and get one sent to me ($10). I went back to Office Max and faxed the whole report ($7). Called Nicole -- I mean her zombie call center -- today, and talked to a half-alive, nearly comatose "individual" who informed me that the charges had been erased. Thanks, but a little notice would have been appreciated, after all the headache and expense on my part. So, the total cost of the debt was $33, including late fees (remember, this was a stolen car). I paid $20 (and some headache time) to get the charges addressed, and corrected. Nicole Sampson, I demand that you send me $20 now, or I will charge you a hefty late fee!
Read more
24 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I paid > $ 4,000 for a canned will. No better than one you would get off the internet. Mr Degennaro didn't even spell our names correctly. During our consultation he asked us the same question more than once because he wasn't at all listening.
Read more
14 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Did my moms last will and testament and the WORST experience. Since the will was written as a "favor" to her friend which happens to be her neighbor and my sister she won't give any information regarding where the original will is or a conformed copy. I get a photocopy in the mail. Right away I found errors and knew something was NOT right! She even told me in a phone conversation she NEVER saw a deed to which my sister and her were on and it had FRS on it which meant my sister was beneficiary of the property and that should of been left out than she even had the WRONG address to the property on the will. SAD because this is her job! Now have a BIG mess and have to pay my attorney to take care of everything!
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Fannie craft
Poor communication. He rarely returned calls. Was retained for a post conviction case (appeal) and this attorney presented the same evidence as the trial attorney… no new evidence nor error was presented in the appellate brief….he was not prepared nor did he research the case. Very disappointed.. would not recommend.
Read more
02 Nov, 2017 by Robert
This poor excuse for a lawyer let our case sit lost in some file at INS office for years. Until we had our Congressman intervene on our behalf nothing would have gotten done. Poor service, kept our money. Never use this guy.
Read more
15 Jun, 2015 by Randy
Bill's favorite saying is 'Cash is King". (that is relative) When I met him, he told me his price was $450.00 per hour, and his assistant's and secretary's time was billed at a much decreased amount. That part was true, but when you have to pay him his fee to review all that his assistant and secretary do, it's a moog point. I have given Bill Horton's law firm all for the information to file the lawsuit. Instead of just using just my info, he and his firm decided to go to the defendants Facebook account a gather more information without checking with me. From his research, he tried to subpoena more information, but the judge denied. That act of his also drew a Federal Lawsuit by the defendant, The lawsuit alleged that I breached the security of the defendant's Facebook. I had requested he talk with the attorney that filed that lawsuit and let him know that it was Horton's law firm that breached the account and make it be known that I had nothing to do with the alleged breach of the defendant's facebook account. Bill Horton did not do what I had requested, Instead he billed me thousands of dollars to reply to the lawsuit.
Bill Horton also made changed to the final agreement, without discussing those changes with me. This in turn will cost me in the future. When I confronted him with this, he denied it. I then sent him with copies of the agreement as we went through the process with all of the red line changes. Those changes Bill Horton made, never appeared in any of the redline changes.
A buy out plan between the defendant and I was agree upon, but Bill failed to put in a penalty for the defendant being late on his payment. I thought I'd hired better, especially with Bill Horton having 35 years experience, but I was WRONG.
Read more
22 Mar, 2024 by Fannie craft
Poor communication. He rarely returned calls. Was retained for a post conviction case (appeal) and this attorney presented the same evidence as the trial attorney… no new evidence nor error was presented in the appellate brief….he was not prepared nor did he research the case. Very disappointed.. would not recommend.
Read more
03 Feb, 2011 by Tina
Stan Szot was disrespectful of his client (my husband) and treated me like a hostile witness instead of listening to the facts of the case. In the end, he took money and did nothing to help us in the matter he was supposed to handle, and ended up walking away leaving a bunch of matters not taken care of. We are still getting letters from the IRS and MI dept of Treasury because he failed to make sure that these entities were properly notified that a business had been disolved.
Read more
22 Jun, 2015 by Lisa
So I hired him for a couple cases in which he responded to and was more than helpful on the first and second but when it came to the third he advised me to not go against the other lawyer because I would lose but assured me I could refile at a different time. So I did so and now comes the time to refile & know that I didn't ask him, he offered to help me with the
Read more
Find Your Lawyer
By Practice Area
-
Business
-
Litigation
-
Real Estate
-
Personal Injury
-
Intellectual Property
-
Estate Planning
-
Insurance
-
Criminal Defense
-
Family Law
-
Tax
-
Immigration
-
Government
-
Appeals
-
Elder Law
-
Probate
-
Consumer Protection
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Workers Compensation
-
Civil Rights
-
Cannabis Law
-
Car Accident
-
Trusts
-
Debt Collection
-
Entertainment
-
Mediation
-
Child Custody
-
Child Support
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Foreclosure
-
Bankruptcy
-
Wrongful Death
-
Divorce
-
Copyright Application
-
Federal Crime
-
Domestic Violence
-
Employment / Labor
-
Adoption
-
Class Action
-
Debt Settlement
-
Juvenile Law
-
Discrimination
-
DUI / DWI
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Sex Crime
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Construction
-
Credit Repair
-
Drug Crime
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Wrongful Termination
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.
