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21 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Jordan Phelps is an excellent, dedicated and experienced attorney. He is patient and really explains the legal process to you. He is receptive to my needs and very attentive. He has a great rapport with many attorney’s and judges throughout Massachusetts. I highly recommend Jordan Phelps.
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26 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I've enlisted Jordan's expertise periodically because he is an effective, prompt communicator.He's great handling defensive & offensive strategies!
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25 Feb, 2021 by Mike
Jordan pays close attention to the little details yet is capable of delicate diplomacy.
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12 Apr, 2024 by John
Erin Nielsen went above and beyond in advising me about a family issue. We spoke on the phone, at length, and she followed up with a very detailed email with suggestions as to my next steps. She truly listened to what I had to say and was extremely professional. I appreciate her honesty and assistance for a very difficult situation in which I have been placed.
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20 Jan, 2022 by Caitlin
Erin made a very stressful time in my life as pleasant as she could. She went above and beyond for both me and my ex husband. She was representing me, yet she was willing to assist my ex husband in getting things done so we could get the paperwork filed. I was not the easiest client as I was all over the place, Erin just stayed on top of me to make sure we got it done. I am Forever Grateful for her support and guidance throughout it all.
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20 Jan, 2022 by Jeff
Erin Nielson was a wonderful ally to have during an extremely stressful time. I was being denied access to my son and Erin was always tenacious, always knowledgeable, and always on point with her communications and recommendations. I now have re-established a relationship with my son and I owe it largely to Erin's work on my case. I'd recommend her to anyone.
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27 Oct, 2020 by David
I met Attorney Glen Secor in 2004. He represented me during the sale of my business to a much larger entity that maintained a very aggressive posture from the start of the deal until it closed. Attorney Secor was undaunted by the buyer’s greater resources, and the sale closed precisely as I wanted. Glen was accessible to me, and he was responsive throughout the process. Glen’s finance and accounting background is a bonus for any business client. Glen is primarily a transactional lawyer. He has experience in software and internet law. His strong intellectual property law background would benefit any content company. He has substantial experience working with nonprofits. I cannot recommend Glen more strongly.
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15 Jul, 2020 by David
I met Attorney Secor in 2004. He represented me during the sale of my business to a much larger entity that maintained a very aggressive posture from the start of the deal until it closed. Attorney Secor was undaunted by the buyer’s greater resources, and the sale closed precisely as I wanted. Glen was accessible to me and very responsive throughout the process. Glen’s finance and accounting background is a bonus for any business client. Glen is primarily a transactional lawyer. He has experience in software and internet law. His strong intellectual property law background would benefit any content company. Glen has substantial experience working with nonprofits. I could not recommend him more strongly.
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10 Dec, 2019 by Mary ann
Glen has been an incredible and invaluable lawyer and advisor. I could never have started my ed tech company without his timely and expert guidance. I highly recommend his services.
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13 Jan, 2012 by Cynthia
I hired Bill after firing a top divorce attorney who is now a state rep. He doesn't have a big law firm behind him, nor a fancy downtown Boston office, but he was a pit bull from day 1. He went the extra yard by hiring a software consultant to check my PC for viruses and spyware left by my ex. He dotted every i and crossed every t. Even after our court appearance in front of one of the toughest divorce judges in Concord (MA) district court, he advised me the best when my own judgement was foggy. During the entire divorce process, I always felt he had my back. Even after the divorce was final and my ex came after me again, Bill was there for me. I can't imagine going through the process with anyone else.
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26 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
Bill Leonard was every bit the lawyer I needed when I was going through a divorce. He is fair, professional and knows his way around a court room. I cannot express how satisfied I was when the process was complete.
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13 Aug, 2010 by Michele
Shani Rae Collymore helped me through the process of buying my first multi family investment property. Not an easy transaction as it was also a short sale. Ms Collymore made herself available to me for all the questions and uneasiness I had during this process. She made me feel comfortable even to ask what might have seemed like a silly question. She had more professional ism in this transaction then one could ask for. She knows the laws, the correct procedures and has the sense of urgency when requried. More than I can say for the others involved in my transaction. When I start to think about purchasing my next properly, Ms Collymore will be the first one I call. I am confident she will get me through the process with as little heartburn as possible. Without reservation, Shani Rae Collymore will be recommend by me to anyone in need of legal services.
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22 Aug, 2012 by Art
Mr. Carnevale in one year obtained one of the ten highest plaintiff verdicts in the state and one of the ten highest defense verdicts in the state. He tried our wrongful death case, and the jury awarded us quadruple what the insurance company's final offer was.
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10 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
Kathy is very knowledgeable in the field of real estate law. She was able to answer all of our questions and even followed up quickly on emails that were send during non-normal working hours.
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11 Nov, 2021 by Peter
Corey was really helpful writing up a great exemption request for my situation. He listened well and show great intelligence and acumen to help me out. Highly recommend Corey!
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25 Apr, 2013 by Tosh
Maria was fantastic in dealing with our visa application. She took all the stress out of our hands. The timelines that were given were adhered to and we were always kept informed.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Gifty anno-okanta
Guys, you are at the right place. Very good attorney, and on point. When I thought all was lost, Zoe took us through , every thick and thin. I love Zoe. She's cool and collected, just tell her the true situation, very understanding and strait forward, and she will take you through it, but you need to play your part well. As for the staff , very helpful and accurate. They'll go all out to help.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Niki osakue
She was thorough , warm and professional.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Danielle song
Our family submitted Eb1a application at the end of last year, and we got the approval notice from Zoe yesterday! It is really a great news for the family. "Money cannot be the motivation." I will always remember my immigration lawyer Zoe said it. Indeed, Zoe is not only a professional immigration lawyer, but also put clients' interests before business profit. She devoted lots of time and efforts to look into my husband professional field (Triathlon) to make the case have comprehensive field backgroud. As a professional triathete, lots of information about this field we even did not have a clue before she get back to us with the whole material. For example, who set up the Triathlon race rules in the overall field and in IRONMAN GROUP. In fact, these information are quite crurial for our case. Moreover, she provided lots of suggestions about what kinds of evidences we need to make the case solid. My husband and I inspired a lot from the suggestions and came up with more supportings based on them. Before get case approved, actually we were required to submit additional evidences. Zoe helped to sort out all the information and seek more options to make sure we hit on the point for responses. Since we get approved, the responses we sibmitted are very successful. In summary, I highly recommand Zoe and already introduced her to several my friends. She is trustworthy.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Tim newell
Prior to a litigation within a condo association in which settlement should have been immediate, they escalated the matter, which was not in the best interest for those that they are supposed to represent. Note that Perkins office was the retained attorney for Fuller Farms Condo Association in Lowell, MA. The facts of the matter were. 1) Two unit owners were denied access to the financial books. His office was made aware of our multiple email requests. Condo by-laws and MA laws dictate that all unit owners are allowed to inspect the "books, for the purpose of an audit. 2) We were denied access because the treasury was depleted because of poor management. There was misappropriation of funds as some supporters of management received upgrades and installations, including $10,000 for windows. The was approximately a $45, 000 shortfall in condo fee arrears. Some owners were able to sell there condo and move owing thousands of dollars in condo fees. 3) There was a further shortfall because of late fees due to unpaid water and tax bills and vendors were paid above industry standards. 4) The property manager had complete control over the bank accounts and accounting software. The QuickBooks software was in his name, his personal information was connected to FFCA bank accounts. This is illegal. 5) Perkins chose to allow a rogue property manager and trustees to retain his counsel, knowingly and willfully that they were not operating in accordance with the law. They were not certified trustees and the property manager was never voted to be hired and he carried no insurance. They do not have the authority to enter into an agreement with Perkins at the expense of FFCA. Perkins chose to allow this. 6) Perkins allowed these individuals to hire him for the purpose of withholding the books and for incumbent protection. 7) Stalling and Intimidation tactics were inflicted upon me. I received letters from Perkins that stated, " this office represents the board of trustees and it is understood that the board through its managing agent has provided you with all requested documents with the exception of a few outstanding invoices." Shortly after I politely notified his office via email and wrote that I received nothing. I submitted further request to the board to access the books. Immediately after I received a demand letter to cease & desist. This is unlawful as it could not be justified. 8) I retained council and shortly after Perkins released 90 pages of financial records. 9) After 6 months of hardship and FFCA payments totaling $35,000 to Perkins, his office chose to reassign the litigation to the associations insurance company. The board had new legal counsel. During the tenure of new counsel, every bank statement was provided through a subpoena. Two out of seven board members resigned, including the treasurer. After 30 months of unnecessary litigation, the property manager resigned to avoid consequences of trial. Perkins did a lot of harm to FFCA. They allowed this matter to escalate into an action for injunctive relief against that former board of trustees and property manager.
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31 Mar, 2023 by Amanda trudell
I was referred to Perkins&Anctil from a real estate colleague and from day one, my experience has been top notch. I will refer their office to everyone I know. As a property manager with a large quantity of units, the liability we face daily is very high. It is extremely important to have educated, reliable and proactive attorneys. Attorney Robert Anctil and Attorney Amy Collins have not only far exceeded my expectations but they have truly helped change how I run my business. Having their legal guidance has eased my stress levels beyond belief especially when it pertains to evictions. Joanne, Pia & Peter go above and beyond every single time whether it is by call or email. I can’t say it enough Everytime I encounter someone new in the industry (investors, landlords, property managers, agents, brokers) having the right legal guidance by hiring trusted professionals is far more important than just hiring any attorney. THANK YOU Perkins & Anctil for being the professionals that I can always trust and count on!
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14 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
I don’t know why every time I write a (negative) review here it disappears! I hired David Chenelle a few years ago to help me with a bankruptcy. I found him to be rude and insensitive. I also think he did something wrong when he claimed that Mass. had changed the way it did bankruptcy and so I would have to pay to have him redo my case. (?) He also claimed that I hadn’t paid him when I had. I had to go to the bank and get physical copies of the checks, endorsed by him, to prove it. What lawyer operates like that? I would definitely not recommend him. (Let’s see how long this review stays up!)
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04 Sep, 2024 by Eusebio gamarra
AMAZING. They helped me with my process and they were super nice, good communication and super fast
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26 Aug, 2024 by Mariana 2
Amazing experience! I definitely recommend this office for immigration-related purposes. The process was smooth and easy, thanks to their excellent services.
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15 Dec, 2021 by Shania l. velez
Maria and her team are amazing. They go above and beyond. I just have no words to describe how thankful and grateful I am. They are professional, responsive.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Tim newell
Prior to a litigation within a condo association in which settlement should have been immediate, they escalated the matter, which was not in the best interest for those that they are supposed to represent. Note that Perkins office was the retained attorney for Fuller Farms Condo Association in Lowell, MA. The facts of the matter were. 1) Two unit owners were denied access to the financial books. His office was made aware of our multiple email requests. Condo by-laws and MA laws dictate that all unit owners are allowed to inspect the "books, for the purpose of an audit. 2) We were denied access because the treasury was depleted because of poor management. There was misappropriation of funds as some supporters of management received upgrades and installations, including $10,000 for windows. The was approximately a $45, 000 shortfall in condo fee arrears. Some owners were able to sell there condo and move owing thousands of dollars in condo fees. 3) There was a further shortfall because of late fees due to unpaid water and tax bills and vendors were paid above industry standards. 4) The property manager had complete control over the bank accounts and accounting software. The QuickBooks software was in his name, his personal information was connected to FFCA bank accounts. This is illegal. 5) Perkins chose to allow a rogue property manager and trustees to retain his counsel, knowingly and willfully that they were not operating in accordance with the law. They were not certified trustees and the property manager was never voted to be hired and he carried no insurance. They do not have the authority to enter into an agreement with Perkins at the expense of FFCA. Perkins chose to allow this. 6) Perkins allowed these individuals to hire him for the purpose of withholding the books and for incumbent protection. 7) Stalling and Intimidation tactics were inflicted upon me. I received letters from Perkins that stated, " this office represents the board of trustees and it is understood that the board through its managing agent has provided you with all requested documents with the exception of a few outstanding invoices." Shortly after I politely notified his office via email and wrote that I received nothing. I submitted further request to the board to access the books. Immediately after I received a demand letter to cease & desist. This is unlawful as it could not be justified. 8) I retained council and shortly after Perkins released 90 pages of financial records. 9) After 6 months of hardship and FFCA payments totaling $35,000 to Perkins, his office chose to reassign the litigation to the associations insurance company. The board had new legal counsel. During the tenure of new counsel, every bank statement was provided through a subpoena. Two out of seven board members resigned, including the treasurer. After 30 months of unnecessary litigation, the property manager resigned to avoid consequences of trial. Perkins did a lot of harm to FFCA. They allowed this matter to escalate into an action for injunctive relief against that former board of trustees and property manager.
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31 Mar, 2023 by Amanda trudell
I was referred to Perkins&Anctil from a real estate colleague and from day one, my experience has been top notch. I will refer their office to everyone I know. As a property manager with a large quantity of units, the liability we face daily is very high. It is extremely important to have educated, reliable and proactive attorneys. Attorney Robert Anctil and Attorney Amy Collins have not only far exceeded my expectations but they have truly helped change how I run my business. Having their legal guidance has eased my stress levels beyond belief especially when it pertains to evictions. Joanne, Pia & Peter go above and beyond every single time whether it is by call or email. I can’t say it enough Everytime I encounter someone new in the industry (investors, landlords, property managers, agents, brokers) having the right legal guidance by hiring trusted professionals is far more important than just hiring any attorney. THANK YOU Perkins & Anctil for being the professionals that I can always trust and count on!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Feb, 2023 by Hannah hanson
I was given a recommendation to this firm by another attorney due to their expertise in Condo law and the complexity of my issue. I contacted them and was put in contact with attorney Scott Ericksen . He gave very little effort or interest to want to take me on or help me. I was kind of taken aback with how unhelpful and uninterested he was and we spoke for less than 10 minutes! I was very unimpressed and disappointed how Mr. Erickson dismissed me in a few minutes and that he basically have no added value until I sue or get sued. Although I was looking for representation as Condo Trustee and/or owner, be aware that they only tend to take on clients that are associations, not individuals. I am glad I didn’t spend one more minute with this firm that gave me zero patience or understanding when I was in a real need of help and guidance and willing to pay!
Read more Google Maps
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star star star star star
18 Feb, 2024 by Tim newell
Prior to a litigation within a condo association in which settlement should have been immediate, they escalated the matter, which was not in the best interest for those that they are supposed to represent. Note that Perkins office was the retained attorney for Fuller Farms Condo Association in Lowell, MA. The facts of the matter were. 1) Two unit owners were denied access to the financial books. His office was made aware of our multiple email requests. Condo by-laws and MA laws dictate that all unit owners are allowed to inspect the "books, for the purpose of an audit. 2) We were denied access because the treasury was depleted because of poor management. There was misappropriation of funds as some supporters of management received upgrades and installations, including $10,000 for windows. The was approximately a $45, 000 shortfall in condo fee arrears. Some owners were able to sell there condo and move owing thousands of dollars in condo fees. 3) There was a further shortfall because of late fees due to unpaid water and tax bills and vendors were paid above industry standards. 4) The property manager had complete control over the bank accounts and accounting software. The QuickBooks software was in his name, his personal information was connected to FFCA bank accounts. This is illegal. 5) Perkins chose to allow a rogue property manager and trustees to retain his counsel, knowingly and willfully that they were not operating in accordance with the law. They were not certified trustees and the property manager was never voted to be hired and he carried no insurance. They do not have the authority to enter into an agreement with Perkins at the expense of FFCA. Perkins chose to allow this. 6) Perkins allowed these individuals to hire him for the purpose of withholding the books and for incumbent protection. 7) Stalling and Intimidation tactics were inflicted upon me. I received letters from Perkins that stated, " this office represents the board of trustees and it is understood that the board through its managing agent has provided you with all requested documents with the exception of a few outstanding invoices." Shortly after I politely notified his office via email and wrote that I received nothing. I submitted further request to the board to access the books. Immediately after I received a demand letter to cease & desist. This is unlawful as it could not be justified. 8) I retained council and shortly after Perkins released 90 pages of financial records. 9) After 6 months of hardship and FFCA payments totaling $35,000 to Perkins, his office chose to reassign the litigation to the associations insurance company. The board had new legal counsel. During the tenure of new counsel, every bank statement was provided through a subpoena. Two out of seven board members resigned, including the treasurer. After 30 months of unnecessary litigation, the property manager resigned to avoid consequences of trial. Perkins did a lot of harm to FFCA. They allowed this matter to escalate into an action for injunctive relief against that former board of trustees and property manager.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Mar, 2023 by Amanda trudell
I was referred to Perkins&Anctil from a real estate colleague and from day one, my experience has been top notch. I will refer their office to everyone I know. As a property manager with a large quantity of units, the liability we face daily is very high. It is extremely important to have educated, reliable and proactive attorneys. Attorney Robert Anctil and Attorney Amy Collins have not only far exceeded my expectations but they have truly helped change how I run my business. Having their legal guidance has eased my stress levels beyond belief especially when it pertains to evictions. Joanne, Pia & Peter go above and beyond every single time whether it is by call or email. I can’t say it enough Everytime I encounter someone new in the industry (investors, landlords, property managers, agents, brokers) having the right legal guidance by hiring trusted professionals is far more important than just hiring any attorney. THANK YOU Perkins & Anctil for being the professionals that I can always trust and count on!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Feb, 2023 by Hannah hanson
I was given a recommendation to this firm by another attorney due to their expertise in Condo law and the complexity of my issue. I contacted them and was put in contact with attorney Scott Ericksen . He gave very little effort or interest to want to take me on or help me. I was kind of taken aback with how unhelpful and uninterested he was and we spoke for less than 10 minutes! I was very unimpressed and disappointed how Mr. Erickson dismissed me in a few minutes and that he basically have no added value until I sue or get sued. Although I was looking for representation as Condo Trustee and/or owner, be aware that they only tend to take on clients that are associations, not individuals. I am glad I didn’t spend one more minute with this firm that gave me zero patience or understanding when I was in a real need of help and guidance and willing to pay!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Feb, 2024 by Tim newell
Prior to a litigation within a condo association in which settlement should have been immediate, they escalated the matter, which was not in the best interest for those that they are supposed to represent. Note that Perkins office was the retained attorney for Fuller Farms Condo Association in Lowell, MA. The facts of the matter were. 1) Two unit owners were denied access to the financial books. His office was made aware of our multiple email requests. Condo by-laws and MA laws dictate that all unit owners are allowed to inspect the "books, for the purpose of an audit. 2) We were denied access because the treasury was depleted because of poor management. There was misappropriation of funds as some supporters of management received upgrades and installations, including $10,000 for windows. The was approximately a $45, 000 shortfall in condo fee arrears. Some owners were able to sell there condo and move owing thousands of dollars in condo fees. 3) There was a further shortfall because of late fees due to unpaid water and tax bills and vendors were paid above industry standards. 4) The property manager had complete control over the bank accounts and accounting software. The QuickBooks software was in his name, his personal information was connected to FFCA bank accounts. This is illegal. 5) Perkins chose to allow a rogue property manager and trustees to retain his counsel, knowingly and willfully that they were not operating in accordance with the law. They were not certified trustees and the property manager was never voted to be hired and he carried no insurance. They do not have the authority to enter into an agreement with Perkins at the expense of FFCA. Perkins chose to allow this. 6) Perkins allowed these individuals to hire him for the purpose of withholding the books and for incumbent protection. 7) Stalling and Intimidation tactics were inflicted upon me. I received letters from Perkins that stated, " this office represents the board of trustees and it is understood that the board through its managing agent has provided you with all requested documents with the exception of a few outstanding invoices." Shortly after I politely notified his office via email and wrote that I received nothing. I submitted further request to the board to access the books. Immediately after I received a demand letter to cease & desist. This is unlawful as it could not be justified. 8) I retained council and shortly after Perkins released 90 pages of financial records. 9) After 6 months of hardship and FFCA payments totaling $35,000 to Perkins, his office chose to reassign the litigation to the associations insurance company. The board had new legal counsel. During the tenure of new counsel, every bank statement was provided through a subpoena. Two out of seven board members resigned, including the treasurer. After 30 months of unnecessary litigation, the property manager resigned to avoid consequences of trial. Perkins did a lot of harm to FFCA. They allowed this matter to escalate into an action for injunctive relief against that former board of trustees and property manager.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Mar, 2023 by Amanda trudell
I was referred to Perkins&Anctil from a real estate colleague and from day one, my experience has been top notch. I will refer their office to everyone I know. As a property manager with a large quantity of units, the liability we face daily is very high. It is extremely important to have educated, reliable and proactive attorneys. Attorney Robert Anctil and Attorney Amy Collins have not only far exceeded my expectations but they have truly helped change how I run my business. Having their legal guidance has eased my stress levels beyond belief especially when it pertains to evictions. Joanne, Pia & Peter go above and beyond every single time whether it is by call or email. I can’t say it enough Everytime I encounter someone new in the industry (investors, landlords, property managers, agents, brokers) having the right legal guidance by hiring trusted professionals is far more important than just hiring any attorney. THANK YOU Perkins & Anctil for being the professionals that I can always trust and count on!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Feb, 2023 by Hannah hanson
I was given a recommendation to this firm by another attorney due to their expertise in Condo law and the complexity of my issue. I contacted them and was put in contact with attorney Scott Ericksen . He gave very little effort or interest to want to take me on or help me. I was kind of taken aback with how unhelpful and uninterested he was and we spoke for less than 10 minutes! I was very unimpressed and disappointed how Mr. Erickson dismissed me in a few minutes and that he basically have no added value until I sue or get sued. Although I was looking for representation as Condo Trustee and/or owner, be aware that they only tend to take on clients that are associations, not individuals. I am glad I didn’t spend one more minute with this firm that gave me zero patience or understanding when I was in a real need of help and guidance and willing to pay!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 May, 2023 by Anonymous
My experience as a client of Attorney Kathy Ryder was very negative. I found her to have poor communication skills, to be always late for court hearings and frequently not responsive. She also didn’t get along well with opposing counsel and this caused litigation to take longer than necessary. Attorney Kathy Ryder is clearly quite calloused in her work and acts unsympathetic towards her clients. She also doesn’t take the time to work collaboratively with her clients.
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25 Mar, 2020 by Erin
I have been working with attorney Ryder for a long time. She has helped me get my family back! She is someone you want next to you in court. She is respected by all courts attorneys and judges. She is very knowledgeable and will fight for you.
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07 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Att Ryder handled conciliation for our family law / child support case. She was very knowledgeable, professional and supportive to all parties. Thanks to her, the case is resolved and saved us from going to trial...Highly recommend !
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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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