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16 Aug, 2022 by Sarah
I met Amanda through a mutual attorney friend a couple years back. She helped me through my highly contentious divorce and custody battle and I came through that with the most favorable outcome. I’d highly recommend Amanda to anyone who is going through any family law matters. In fact, I did recently recommend her to my own sister for help during her divorce. I’m super grateful for Amanda and her compassion and high level knowledge of the law during one of the hardest times of my life!
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11 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Amanda N. Sanchez ended up getting my case even though I didn't explicitly agree to work with her, when I signed on with Allysyn Overton. I indicated in our consultation that keeping fees low was a primary goal and Allysyn said she would ensure that happened. So, when I was unloaded onto Amanda after the attorney that Allysyn said I would be working with (who I was comfortable with) wasn't available, I wanted to introduce myself, my goals, and reiterate that I'd prefer not file unnecessary motions etc... and asked if she could advise the other party it might be in their best interest not to as well. I even thanked them for their transparency which is embarrassing now. Amanda emailed Allysyn and wrote "she is already complaining about the fees" - after my first email to her. What a disappointing way to talk about someone you're about to represent, immediately after retaining them. Allysyn responded "Just proceed as needed. She signed a retainer and I have emails where I tell her while yes we will be careful with your cost/benefit analysis, lawyers are expensive" Allysyn went out of her way to tell me that her team was not as expensive as others as they were cautious, that Amanda had a lower hourly rate, and that they would be extremely mindful given my situation. I was forwarded these emails by accident after I asked Allysyn about a line item that was $750 for text messages between her and Amanda. I asked if I could see them, and she sent me a barrage of emails I already had and other emails I was likely not meant to see. Another line item was $2000 for emails to assume the file from another lawyer when 1) I was told that lawyers typically do not charge to assume a file and 2) There was a dropbox link with all of my documents attached from the other firm which was quite organized. I ultimately saw the text messages and they were about Amanda's wedding. Amanda also would email me repeating questions she had already asked instead of just searching her email. All lawyers I have dealt with in the past have been succinct and mindful of correspondence. Despite my constant requests to keep things brief, there were needlessly long emails sent, meetings between them for who knows what. I have one email that Allysn accidentally sent me where Amanda says she has a call scheduled with me but doesn't know what to talk about. Amanda ended up abandoning my case after only working on it briefly. It seems irresponsible to take something on if you know you'll be leaving. Given the short amount of time she handled my case, I can't imagine she didn't know she was planning to leave. Amanda claims in her response that what I've written here is inaccurate but I have all her emails and text messages. She was very involved in my case.
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18 May, 2024 by J.
After reading such glowing reviews we engaged Silverman’s firm. They sounded great on our initial call. It shouldn’t became a parent that their timeline was their timeline and my impression was, since fees are court mandated, they were not going out of their way if something different was required. We found members of their staff to be arrogant and haughty. We were told it would take weeks and even months before appointments and items could be addressed. After terminating our relationship and engaging our new lawyer within days we had necessary appointments and issues had been resolved. The impression we had was Silverman’s firm only wanted to do the bare minimum And anything extra we felt like we were demanding or that they were being put upon. They knew our circumstances from the beginning and they were not that extraordinary in our opinion and when we engage. Bottom line, in my opinion, I would not recommend them for anything other than a very , bread and butter probate and would not expect the best or fastest service Without a certain amount of attitude to accompany it!
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01 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
We hired Robert Silverman to handle our Estate Planning from a friend's recommendation. Mr. Silverman took the time to get to know us and then fully explained what we did (and did not) need. He offered us a flat rate for end to end Trust creation. His staff was courteous and totally on top of our work. The output was a comprehensive document based on our needs and his expertise. Estate planning is an emotional and financial process. Mr. Silverman made it painless. What a sense of relief we have!
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05 Jun, 2023 by Alan
I received poor counsel from John F. Martin. I was told a doctor who injured me could pay me $30k without needing to notify their insurance, then months later, I was told it was $3K. There were several reoccurring billing errors. When I complained to Mr. Martin in writing about the errors and the handling of my account, he attacked the credibility of my case. Avoid this firm!
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23 Oct, 2009 by Vanji
John's team was incredible, and professional. I am 100 percent pleased.
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31 Dec, 2022 by Michael w
I wish I had the same experience as the two other clients. Sadly he never fought for me and not seeing my daughter has been a result for over a year. Jerry kept information from me not knowing I could have won the case he never fought for me thousands of dollars down the drain.
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14 Feb, 2017 by Kimberly
Mr. Chang is an amazing lawyer and person to work with. Extremely focused and capable. Divorce is never easy, yet I walked away with my dignity in tact and a very fair outcome to all parties involved. I'm so very grateful that I was referred to Mr. Chang; I will continue to work with him for all of my family law needs!
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31 Mar, 2015 by Katie
Recommended by another attorney, Jerry represented me after a ridiculous charge was filed against me. His professionalism, kindness and sense of humor made a stressful process bearable. Not only were the charges eventually dropped, but the other side had to pay my attorney's fees. It was a pleasure to work with Jerry and his excellent support staff.
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01 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Geoffrey Steele was hired by my scumbag aunt and sister to handle conservatorship of my mother who has really bad dementia. After emptying her bank account and sticking her in the first nursing home available they all thought the best thing for my poor dying mother was to not allow me to speak to her or visit her. I called him repeatedly for weeks, only to get the runaround. Now she has moved out of state away from everything and everyone she’s ever known or loved. He lied to my face repeatedly. If you’re looking to screw the elderly out of money, this is your guy!
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14 Feb, 2013 by Donna
I hired Geoffrey Steele to help me with the absolute worst condo association co owners. It's a 2-unit association in a high-end neighborhood in San Francisco and the other unit was bought by the worst possible neighbors ever--never paid their bills, took money from the reserve account for personal expenses, constantly left trash all over porch and yard, had father and son drumsets in the bedroom, and so much more. They could care less about the CC&Rs, and I hired Mr Steele to correct this. He was steadfast, insistent, and persuasive. Few lawyers would have been able to get through to these people--even with threats of legal action (hadn't worked before) or appeals to common decency (hadn't worked either). Mr Steele did. He has a keen understanding of real estate/condo association law, steel-trap recollection of details, direct and forceful manner, and supportive and understanding interactions with the client. I'd always be glad he is on my side and not the opposite!
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26 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
Is currently and has for the last two years lawyered my case against a bank corporation. His work is detailed, honest, thoughtful, and incisive. He is also very personable, taking a genuine interest in clients well being during a grueling and lengthy process.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Sw3tflower
Mr Wolch represented me at a contempt trial against my husband. It was an open/shut case. He demanded we go ahead with the divorce despite knowing my husband had no attorney to represent him. The judge threw out the case. Mr Wolch did not respond to any of my Emails or calls concerning the divorce settlement my husband gave me. He went 3 months without any communication and then advised me to sign the settlement despite knowing I had no idea how it would affect me. It was a very bad settlement. An attorney who does not communicate with his clients and has a lack of knowledge about law is not the type of attorney who will be working in your best interests, especially during a divorce.
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22 Nov, 2017 by Cathy
Wolch is about the worst you can do for a family law attorney in Contra Costa County. He runs up his bills, has his inept associates doing most of the work, and repeatedly confused my case with another that he was working on at the time. Do yourself a favor and steer clear of this clown.
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04 Oct, 2013 by Mandi
Please accept again my sincere thanks and appreciation for the help and legal assistance you provided as my divorce attorney.
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08 Jul, 2019 by Susan williams
The receptionist was VERY rude. The environment twas very hostile!! Unbelievable!!!
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18 Apr, 2018 by Faizi s
Front desk is not very pleasant, but my lawyer is good.
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20 Jan, 2018 by Cindy rogers
Needed advice and received prompt call back and free information that solved my problem. Thumbs Up!! Cindy
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18 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Unfortunately, I came to this conclusion too far along in my case to do anything about it. She expressed annoyance that I did not currently work and seemed to look down on me for it. Money was not an issue for me and it seems she sensed that. I’m currently investigating her billing practices for my case. No, I did not prevail and it has cost me a lot. I did not feel like she was on my side and I felt patronized by her in court. I have little confidence in these reviews. I did my homework and thought I was making the right choice by hiring her. I am totally disillusioned by the whole court process now.
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29 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Who does that? Her assistant at the time, a guy, showed up at court in her place. I was NOT informed nor did I approve. He wasn’t up to par with my case and the opposing attorneys railroaded him. I felt like a fool and the judge didn’t appear too pleased either. It was humiliating and disrespectful. How do you avoid hiring an attorney like this? How was I supposed to know?
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24 Apr, 2019 by Michele
I think I know who posted the 12/17/2017 review, and they didn't hire Carolyn Cain - I did. After years of having a do-nothing attorney for an incredibly complicated case and multiple attempts to wrest free of that one, Carolyn Cain took me on and within days Carolyn got me out of a serious fix and within months we were all caught up. I think the 12.17.17 reviewer actually wanted me to fail, and Carolyn definitely mucked up those plans!
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20 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
i hired attorney paula grohs for a custody case involving my two children, for which i was charged excessively. she often was not easy to understood and showed up intoxicated at court. as for the case outcome, i was not able to get my children back and we sold off my parents home to pay paula grohs.
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08 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I consulted with this attorney. I sent her my information and was asked immediately for a retainer. In being from out of town, I felt I was being taken advantage of. I then arranged to send her my information and never heard back, then was asked for more money. Her demeanor over the phone was harsh. In hiring a divorce lawyer, you need someone who is going to be on your side. I was treated as a cash cow. Not professional.
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03 Apr, 2017 by Susan
I spoke with Paula Grohs about taking my divorce case, and the consultation was a trainwreck. No solid advice was given, and no plan was put in place. I chose not to hire Ms. Grohs and wouldn't recommend that you do not
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12 Jul, 2022 by Andrea
I do not recommend attorney Mary P. Carey. I hired her for a dependency case and was very dissatisfied with her results.
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08 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Mary was excellent to work with on issues; very knowledgeable, very low-key, but perceptive. Lots of experience not only with judical and cps system, but great for difficult teens(talking to them and getting the teen to listen and understand the ramifications of poor choices made by teen).
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11 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Mary Kathleen Caswell, has altered information and facts when handling my child custody case to favor her client (My Husband). Her greed has lead her astray from the main purpose of The Family Court system being involved with families, which is to help families struggling to collaborate together (in my case my abusive/cheating husband didn’t think it was sufficient that he was physically/emotionally/verbally abusive and abandoned the Marital home) He still wanted to continue his power and control over me and This scrupulous attorney started Her strategies/tactics that resemble those of terrorist and are by NO MEANS in any child’s BEST INTEREST, It is unfortunate that the Family Law System is being exploited by greedy, malicious, narcissistic Attorney’s such as Mary Kathleen Caldwell. It is such a distressing time when a Marriage is coming to an end and on top of that you have to fight your (cheating/abusive/criminal) spouse in this Family Court System with people like Mary Kathleen Caswell continuing to encourage my Husbands Abuse, Power and Control with NO regard for the child’s true best interest. If you are interested in continuing to inflict trauma on the person whom you married and made kid/s with for nothing more than power and control, and will do it by any means necessary (she will alter electronic communications, change the facts to coincide with her depraved lies) She’s the attorney for you if you have No regard for your child’s best interest and the Trauma that this situation continues to expose the children to.
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22 Mar, 2015 by Brian
I called her for urgent help with a family law crisis. Although she didn't have time to take my case that week, she took about fifteen minutes to listen and give solid advice to help me get county authorities to enforce a legal order. She also referred me to a colleague who had the bandwidth to provide immediate assistance. Thank you very much!
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22 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired Kathleen to represent me in what should have been a "simple" uncontested divorce. Her YELP reviews were amazing. While she was nice, she lacked the knowledge/experience to work with more skilled counsel and I ultimately had to let her go and hire someone who had more skill. If what you want is basic advice, I'm sure she could help, but the minute another attorney is involved, her lack of experience shows. I would love to have coffee with her or hang out, but I would not want her to be the one giving me or anyone else I care about, advice about how to end their marriage and care for their children.
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15 Sep, 2023 by John
Eugene Chiarelli told us initially that he felt he "may" be able to resolve our case within the initial retainer of $5000. However after 3 months and over $15,500 spent, all we received is contact information on the opposing lawyer with zero resolution. We had to fire Eugene as it became clear that we were being taken advantage of. Eugene knew exactly how to "work" our case slowly and milk it for all he could. I have persoanlly gained more ground in 1 month with the opposing attorney then Eugene did in 3 months time.
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30 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Private Judge, Leslie Morgan, is efficient and professional. Clients sign a document appointing him as Private Judge, for just the one case. He is able to review written agreements prior to signing so that you are sure your document contains all the necessary information and required forms have been filed. Once the agreement is signed, Mr. Morgan has the documents filed at the court and returned to you. This process takes days, as compared to weeks or even months, depending on what county you live in. Mr. Morgan is very organized and responds immediately to emails or phone calls. I can't say enough about him. So grateful for his help and would recommend him to anyone!
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27 Jun, 2015 by Joan
I was recommended to him by my sister because he represented a dear friend of hers. I was not able to come up with his retainer so he agreed to barter with me to photograph two of his daughters bat mitzvah's and a shoot with the kids Ginnie pig's later. I'm out $15,000. Without a single filing, no mediation date set, I don't know what to do.
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08 Oct, 2014 by Lori h.
I used Leslie Morgan as a Private Judge in my divorce. My attorney encouraged me to hire Judge Morgan; it would make the divorce very fast. Instead, it took 4 years to get the decree, 5 years to get division settled and it's been almost 10 years since the divorce began and my ex still owes me > $150,000 but I still have to take him to court to get it. He overlooked EVIDENCE and my testimony and accepted the testimony of my ex and I lost the opportunity for a BIG CHUNK of cash. Another time, he made an Order dividing everything and concluded the only difference was that my ex had $200,000 more than I did. At one point, he was trying to get me to agree to receive less and told me that I needed to give my ex "a light at the end of the tunnel." He constantly accepted my ex's false testimony over my evidence or testimony. He refused to hold my ex accountable for disobeying his orders so I had to keep taking my ex to court and he still didn't respond effectively. In the end, I lost about 80% of my half of the assets. Lastly, he is no longer ‘sharp’ which I attribute to his age. He had difficulty remembering what he had ordered and allowed issues to be re-argued over my attorney's objection and he changed his mind and made new orders that SHORTED me money. I could add more complaints but then it would be more like a book than a review. If you want to lose most of your assets to your ex....please use Judge Morgan.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Becky
I know this will be a little long, but this is important…. We used Ms. Bachtell for my husband divorce we had trust in her. That is now totally gone. Long story short…4.5 years ago we were in a pretty bad accident. Fortunately, everyone was not injured seriously. With that said…. Ms. Bachtell IS NOT AN INJURY LAWYER note to self. We called to get advice only. She said she could handle it….well she did kinda NOT. There are things we did not know. Subrogation, the fact that we were not hurt bad was only a “soft tissue” injury. Blah blah blah….turns out if we had been told these two things it probably wouldn’t have taken 4.5 years and a mediator to settle it. OH and after that it literally took 6 months for her to finally settle it. The worse part she would have one excuse after another why she wasn’t on our case, out of state, at Lowes for a pipe that broke etc. etc. I am so angry it’s not funny. PLEASE DO NOT GIVE HER BUSINESS. Lawyers work on referrals. She is not a professional lawyer
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05 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Ms. Bachtell will take your money and provide a lot of excuses for why she hasn't done anything, but that's all she'll do. Something simple like returning calls or responding to emails/texts is asking way too much from Ms. Bachtell. It's been over 2 1/2 years since I started the divorce process - it's just been a huge waste of time and money.
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01 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
I don't even know where to begin... she ended up messing up so horribly.. I am now a single mom in $25K worth of debt because I had to hire a new attorney to fix things and keep me out of jail. she lied, ignored emails and phone calls and talked with opposing counsel about my case after I fired her! RUN!!
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26 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Think twice before hiring , I got charged more than 10k. I have been married with my wife for two years and one month but I paid for expensive because he agreed with my ex attorney that I agreed to pay her child support but on the court judge said I don’t have to pay because our marriage period so short So you have to double pay one for this attorney second for child support which his mistake. You can get free consultation but you can hire someone else
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24 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Bergquist was retained at a crucial and desperate time and with very real hardship. He took my case with the promise of urgency, yet filed my paperwork in the incorrect jurisdiction (wrong Court) and failed to take swift and firm action as promised. I can quote him as apologizing for leaving me "on the back burner" when in fact he made clear and upfront promises to be strong and forceful in my matter. His apathy and lack of follow through caused me the loss of all joint assets after a 26 year (dependent income spouse) marriage, created protracted hardship and extreme stress resulting in never before experienced health problems. He blatantly went back on his word to keep communication with opposing counsel open and aboveboard by taking a conference in the Judge's private chambers thus excluding me from knowing what his disclosures and promises to the opposition were. The end result I was forced to go to trial after removing him from the case with no representation because he could not produce a settlement (I was willing to walk with next to nothing to avoid the stress and upheaval of a trial) and ended up with less than nothing due to debt and co-responsibility of my ex's 6 year tax evasion penalties. This attorney cannot be trusted and has no qualms or conscience of wreaking havoc on your case. My "case" is my life as I knew it or will ever know it moving forward, and the present and future stability and life of my children - Mr. Bergquist undermined my position and ultimately stole through his actions (or lack of).
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Top Questions to Ask a Lawyer

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

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost?

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

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