Filter by

star star star star star
19 Jun, 2024 by Gabe mills
The lawyer I was assigned seemed to have a lot of other cases but took on my case despite that. I could tell he wanted to help me out so it was nice to have him on my team. The time frame was a little longer than I hoped but the results were good. I’m waiting to hear back from my employer now after losing my job but once that’s settled I should be good to go.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Apr, 2024 by Stefan david
Good work ethic! Ralph is really the best I've seen. He got my speeding ticket reduce to a 2 point from a 4 and did it pretty fast too. Happy with the results.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Apr, 2024 by Todd vilders
Did a good job.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
14 Jan, 2019 by Jason
Mr. Inserra has handled both bankruptcies I unfortunately have had to file (long story, ex gf issues), I digress. There's a reason I hired Inserra a second time, because my first was smooth and flawless. Mr. Inserra was sure to be as informative and available to me as possible and always explained in detail and in terms I could easily understand each and every step of the NYS bankruptcy filing process. Moreover, he and his secretarial staff (to which are extremely well-versed in every aspect of filing as well) went above and beyond by doing everything they could within their power to expedite my filing as I was due to be out of state for several months and needed to be present for my meeting of debtors. We were able to successfully nail down a date prior to my leaving and the very moment I walked into the conference room for that meeting of the debtors I was immediately seen by the bankruptcy court trustee whom examined my case while asking a few case related questions and within less than 4 minutes I was out the door and 100% debt free! I can't express how highly I recommend his services!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Jun, 2012 by Anonymous
Attorney Inserra did my bankruptcy in the early 1990s and then again in the last year. He was very knowledgeable and walked me through the entire process explaining everything in layman's terms so that I could understand what I was signing and how the whole bankruptcy process works. I would definitely and have recommend him to my family and friends.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Jun, 2012 by Roger
After consulting several other lawyers about my complex financial issues, I found Mr. Inserra. His knowledge of bankruptcy law far exceeded that of other attorneys I spoke with. He and his staff were courteous and helpful throughout my case and made a difficult situation much easier for me and my family. I highly recommend Mr. Inserra for anyone considering bankruptcy.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
I went to have a consultation with Jane and she easily could have told me that I really needed a lawyer for my custody issue. Instead, she gave me sound advice, put my mind at ease and told me what I could do without a lawyer. I admire her honesty. In the future, should I need a family lawyer, I will go to Jane.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Sep, 2024 by Nigel spahr
That was the best experience I could have had getting custody of my children! Our family is so thankful for their persistence and open mind. I totally recommend Rafferty! She knows her stuff and my family is whole again!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Apr, 2024 by Elizabeth demeree
Organized, calm, honest, effective, efficient. Great experience in a tough situation with family court. I really appreciate this office after multiple attempts to find representation. This one represented me as a mother and human being. I know my twins appreciate them too.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Mar, 2024 by Teri reichert
They worked fast and efficiently! I didn’t have to stress about anything being done incorrectly and they kept amazing communication every step of the way! I will continue to do business with them going forward!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
17 Sep, 2024 by Nigel spahr
That was the best experience I could have had getting custody of my children! Our family is so thankful for their persistence and open mind. I totally recommend Rafferty! She knows her stuff and my family is whole again!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Apr, 2024 by Elizabeth demeree
Organized, calm, honest, effective, efficient. Great experience in a tough situation with family court. I really appreciate this office after multiple attempts to find representation. This one represented me as a mother and human being. I know my twins appreciate them too.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Mar, 2024 by Teri reichert
They worked fast and efficiently! I didn’t have to stress about anything being done incorrectly and they kept amazing communication every step of the way! I will continue to do business with them going forward!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 Feb, 2024 by Gallagher driscoll
I have had great experiences with Attorney Jamie Donigan. He has always been honest,realistic and upfront not matter what the case was. Great Firm!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jul, 2023 by Heinz wahl
On point.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Jan, 2023 by Johnnie owens
They have been amazing since they took over my case. The results come every time we talk. They are fantastic with communicating about everything that is happening too. I swear that last people we worked with would go months without an update. Not this office though.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
This lawyer and his firm went above and beyond with professionalism to make my family feel comfortable with their representation of our family member in 2012. He answered all our questions, was frank in his opinions and solutions process. He gave us step by step information and told us how to successfully navigate the court system that we were dealing with. He gave my family member a successful outcome to charges and incarceration. I would recommend him and his firm instantly. My family thanks him again.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Feb, 2015 by Jeff
todd and staff were very helpful , my son was in a bad accident and was awarded full amount of settlement,,, he went above and beyond to make this happen ,,,I would definatly recommend this law firm.. .
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
18 Mar, 2011 by Derek
Todd has represented me on many different occasions on a wide array of issues from DWI's, traffic, to misdemeanors and felony cases and always done me right. Todd has always gotten me the best deal possible in whatever matter I was facing and I greatly appreciate that, I have sent all of my friends and family to Todd and whenever I require legal services Todd is the only number I dial. I would actually consider him a friend after all the interaction we have had over the years, he is a good guy.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
19 Sep, 2023 by Heather condino
Took a day off for consultation was never called, called in they said they called and left a message and never did. Would absolutely not recommend. I’d rather give zero stars honestly but it wasn’t an option.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Aug, 2021 by Cliff
she is honest and definitely has represented my best interest. Highly recommend.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 May, 2021 by Master tech
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2020 by Vicky s
He is a very intelligent, honest and righteous lawyer.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Oct, 2018 by Michael march
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
25 Oct, 2023 by Amy del prete
Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Sep, 2022 by Josh reichard
Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Apr, 2021 by Susan gould
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2024 by Holly brooks
Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Aug, 2024 by Jesse feimann
Absolutely wonderful to work with! With any financial legal help, this is the best place to go!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Aug, 2024 by Valerie anderson
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2024 by Holly brooks
Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Aug, 2024 by Jesse feimann
Absolutely wonderful to work with! With any financial legal help, this is the best place to go!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Aug, 2024 by Valerie anderson
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2024 by Holly brooks
Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Aug, 2024 by Jesse feimann
Absolutely wonderful to work with! With any financial legal help, this is the best place to go!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Aug, 2024 by Valerie anderson
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
14 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr Porter is absolutely a great Criminal Attorney. But his reckless and absolute refusal to speak on behalf of his clients desires in Divorce and Custody should make it against the standards to practice in those areas. Charged over 8000 dollars and I ended up worse than if I had a court appointed attorney for custody. Selfish and shady.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Kinney abigail
Process took longer than I thought, but in the end I am happy with the result. Thank you guys.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Axel woods
Their support staff was very professional and polite. They always keep me updated with my case details.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
01 Apr, 2008 by Joshua
Rand did a noble job of representing me in my divorce. Although things didn't turn out as I had hoped, everything went quickly and relatively inexpensive.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Kinney abigail
Process took longer than I thought, but in the end I am happy with the result. Thank you guys.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Axel woods
Their support staff was very professional and polite. They always keep me updated with my case details.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Dr. catharine towne
Highly recommended them. They are really skilled.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Kinney abigail
Process took longer than I thought, but in the end I am happy with the result. Thank you guys.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Axel woods
Their support staff was very professional and polite. They always keep me updated with my case details.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Dr. catharine towne
Highly recommended them. They are really skilled.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Kinney abigail
Process took longer than I thought, but in the end I am happy with the result. Thank you guys.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Axel woods
Their support staff was very professional and polite. They always keep me updated with my case details.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Dr. catharine towne
Highly recommended them. They are really skilled.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Kinney abigail
Process took longer than I thought, but in the end I am happy with the result. Thank you guys.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Axel woods
Their support staff was very professional and polite. They always keep me updated with my case details.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Dr. catharine towne
Highly recommended them. They are really skilled.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Kinney abigail
Process took longer than I thought, but in the end I am happy with the result. Thank you guys.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Axel woods
Their support staff was very professional and polite. They always keep me updated with my case details.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Dr. catharine towne
Highly recommended them. They are really skilled.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Mar, 2024 by John mckillip
Receptionist is very rude, not friendly at all. Out if 3 different lawyers in the area was the highest cost for a simple traffic ticket.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Oct, 2023 by Almon mix
Never been in the place!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2023 by George h
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
17 Feb, 2015 by Candy
Michelle is a excellent lawyer.I've been working with her a year now and still working with her.she keeps on to everything.she pulls no punches.I would recommend her to anyone.she's fights for her clients.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
This lawyer was supposed to represent a child in a court case I was a witness to. Instead she solely represented the mother and ignored her negligence!! Not someone who looks for the best interest of children.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Oct, 2023 by Amy del prete
Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Nov, 2022 by Jill
Incredibly rude -called this lawyer three times and was told he would call me back....five weeks later still no call.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Sep, 2022 by Josh reichard
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
12 Dec, 2023 by Computer doc
If you would like a lawyer that sleeps in the same bed within court corruption upon assistance of parental alienation, well you found the correct lawyer right here
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Jul, 2023 by Anastasia przybyla
Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2023 by Mike williams
We are waiting on payment for over 100+ days now and the law office is non-responsive.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
21 Jun, 2019 by Sergeant major
A True and Compassionate Lawyer who deals strictly by the law! He saved me a tremendous amount of money from a Blood Sucking Former wife who wished for the world from me. Thank you Lee (Colonel Lionel!!).
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Oct, 2014 by Amy
my, now adult children, had him for a law guardian years ago. thankfully it was briefly. he had the nerve to say my grandmother was coaching the children. my children were not even allowed to know what was going on, and my family backed me up 100% this guy knows nothing and should not even be practicing. he is a quack in my book and right now. my daughter is going through family court with her ex with their son and I told her to steer clear of this attorney and why.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Jun, 2010 by Elizabeth
After I had submitted the paperwork he had sent me, I called a month later to follow up. He stated that things had come up and pretty much that he'd get to it when he could. He contacted my soon to be exhusband and said it was incomplete and I still had some paperwork to sign once he had gotten his portion done. He has been less than helpful. I could have saved $1400 and had the done by now if I had just filed myself.
Read more Avvo
See more
John F Zimberlin, experienced  attorney in Watertown, NY with 6 reviews
star star star star star
2.2/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
1.6
5 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jul, 2024 by Jacob berry
The most useless and unprofessional group I have ever had the misfortune of dealing with
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Jul, 2024 by Jay quill
What an absolute bunch of crooks. Prosecutional misconduct at its finest. Using proven faked evidence against defendants, falsified records. The DA herself and her underlings should be sent back to law school to learn the law, especially the difference between civil and criminal. Lawsuits are gonna fly againt this office for sure.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Aug, 2023 by Mark l
Takes forever to get a response from them
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Jul, 2024 by Jacob berry
The most useless and unprofessional group I have ever had the misfortune of dealing with
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Jul, 2024 by Jay quill
What an absolute bunch of crooks. Prosecutional misconduct at its finest. Using proven faked evidence against defendants, falsified records. The DA herself and her underlings should be sent back to law school to learn the law, especially the difference between civil and criminal. Lawsuits are gonna fly againt this office for sure.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Aug, 2023 by Mark l
Takes forever to get a response from them
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Jul, 2024 by Jacob berry
The most useless and unprofessional group I have ever had the misfortune of dealing with
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Jul, 2024 by Jay quill
What an absolute bunch of crooks. Prosecutional misconduct at its finest. Using proven faked evidence against defendants, falsified records. The DA herself and her underlings should be sent back to law school to learn the law, especially the difference between civil and criminal. Lawsuits are gonna fly againt this office for sure.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Aug, 2023 by Mark l
Takes forever to get a response from them
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Jul, 2024 by Jacob berry
The most useless and unprofessional group I have ever had the misfortune of dealing with
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Jul, 2024 by Jay quill
What an absolute bunch of crooks. Prosecutional misconduct at its finest. Using proven faked evidence against defendants, falsified records. The DA herself and her underlings should be sent back to law school to learn the law, especially the difference between civil and criminal. Lawsuits are gonna fly againt this office for sure.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Aug, 2023 by Mark l
Takes forever to get a response from them
Read more Google Maps
See more
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:

  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.
Scroll to top