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4.8
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23 Jan, 2025 by Cincear weaver
22 Jan, 2025 by Quentin daniels
Very polite very fast and always has your best interest
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21 Jan, 2025 by Ernestine goldsberry
5.0
7 Reviews
4.6
78 Reviews
07 Oct, 2024 by Victoria allgood
Jennifer Spyker recently and successfully represented me in an important case. Ms. Spyker was clearly knowledgeable with highly relevant experience in the law relevant to my case and she worked efficiently and professionally on my behalf. She presented options to me, with a very frank and honest discussion of the pros and cons of each to allow make the best choice possible. She kept me informed every step of the way, was responsive to all of my questions and always accessible to me. I never felt that she was too busy for me.
It was very clear that Ms. Spyker cares very deeply about making sure that her clients are protected. She is empathetic and provided support and guidance so that I never felt alone in my case. She consistently advocated very strongly but professionally for me. I was grateful to have her support and she will always be my first choice in legal matters. I am certain that her calm demeanor coupled with her professional and straightforward nature was essential to the positive outcome in my case and the speed at which it was reached.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Mijah addison
Lauren Newton has been a godsend to me. With my complex case many people wouldn’t have took it on, but Lauren believed in me and wanted to seek justice for me kept me updated every step of the way, not only being my attorney, but being a friend when going through Traumatic experience. Lauren fought for me and I am forever grateful for her. I call her my small but mighty because she will get the job done.
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03 May, 2024 by Jhon harris
This law firm don't care about people's constitutional rights I got told from this law firm office, constitutional rights got violated but so what deal with it/ there go folks I just saved you a phone call
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14 Nov, 2024 by Allyson morton
Highly recommend The Sumwalt Group! They handled our case with professionalism and got us the end result we wanted. Thank you
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21 Oct, 2024 by Brandi galloway
Vernon Sumwalt with The Sumwalt Group was amazing and so helpful during my whole process. If I had any questions or concerns, the response time was within no more than two days. Their compassion and concern was unparalleled. Thank You for all you do!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Michale todd
Vernon has been absolutely amazing. A year and half after I had been injured at work and after receiving medical treatment, it was time to start the settlement process. I was given an offer and wasn't sure if it was good. I found The Sumwalt Group on Google and saw the 5 star reviews. I reached out to them to see if I could get some advice. Vernon was the one to call me and gave me some wonderful free advice on countering and what would be a good amount. He also looked over the settlement agreement I received to make sure it wouldn't mess up any potential social security/disability in the future. Vernon made me feel like he cared and like he wanted the best for me on this settlement and helped me to avoid having to hire a lawyer and drag out the process. I hope I never get hurt on the job again, but if I ever do I will definitely reach out to them again.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Keana clark
The Law Office of Jason Reece is top tier. I had a DWI charge and he got my whole entire case dismissed. He goes above and beyond to make sure you get the best outcome in any situation. Please do not hesitate to give him your case , he is one of the best in Charlotte.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Eric sloop
Matthew and his tears are PHENOMENAL! I am just finishing up a lengthy divorce that had a lot of complications and when I addressed he was able to tackle them and make things a lot clearer and helped me understand what my rights are. Divorce is painful but with his team, the pain was eased. His rates are very reasonable and he will work within one's budget.
All I can say is Thank you Matthew and Missy with helping me thru this process.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Shaunta jackson
Jason Reese and paralegal are the absolute best. Very responsive, professional and knows the law. Thanks for everything.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Jose torres
I was overwhelmed and unable to focus on my day to day responsibilities due to having put myself into really bad debt. The team at Arnold & Smith didn’t judge me or make me feel like I was just another person who had irresponsibly put themselves in a bad situation. I wasn’t just another debt settlement case. I was made to feel like a person they wanted to genuinely help get their life back on track. Shannon, Madison and everyone else at Arnold & Smith were there every step of the way, every question I had, every concern, any stumbles, every creditor call, every debt collector correspondence. I was reassured they would do whatever they could to help me with my debt settlement. If I was ever skeptical this program would work or if they could really help me, that skepticism is gone. You guys are real life heroes. You helped me get my peace of mind and my life back on track. I can’t thank you all enough for what you have done for me and everything you continue to do.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Lanell smith
Never waste your time with this law firm. They don’t think about clients best interests. They think about themselves please never ever trust their company.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Rusty smith
Not helpful at all to me regarding a simple case. I was under the impression that they handle civil cases. The Attorney didn't even bother to call and tell me directly that they could not take my case. I received a generic text message with a link that was not useful. That was my experience.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Cincear weaver
22 Jan, 2025 by Quentin daniels
Very polite very fast and always has your best interest
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21 Jan, 2025 by Ernestine goldsberry
23 Jan, 2025 by Cincear weaver
22 Jan, 2025 by Quentin daniels
Very polite very fast and always has your best interest
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21 Jan, 2025 by Ernestine goldsberry
06 Dec, 2024 by Kristi datz
Handled my matter. Very professional and very quick. If I ever have a problem again I will be contacting the law offices of Banks Huntley.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Radford brown
I was very pleased with the Law Offices of Banks Huntley. I called and got an immediate response. Mr. Huntley said he felt sure he could help me with my issue. He was aware of what the cost would be and between the court cost and his fee, I felt he offered a very reasonable solution to handle my case. Within a very short period of time, I got an email with the resolution, which was just as he had described. I could not be more pleased with the outcome and the services I received. Would highly recommend him.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Dj the
Just wanted to give a big thanks to Mr Banks Huntley. He took over my case in July of this year and got my case dismissed. He is one of the best lawyers in Mecklenburg County. He communicated with me every step of the way, he gave me options and clarity on my case. I really appreciate all you did. I highly recommend his services.
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10 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
My family hired Brione to help us with a child custody case. Brione was successful in obtaining the custody arrangements we were desiring. She is a very knowledgeable and thorough attorney. She patiently answered all our questions and promptly returned our phone calls. She reassured us during a very trying year.
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04 Sep, 2014 by Christine r.
When I contacted Passenant & Shearin Law I was trying to do division of martial property process on my own due to financial issues after a very difficult divorce. It is very difficult to do on your own. I felt awkward about everything I was going through and not realizing how hard it was to do on my own. I contacted the office through email and they immediately respond back to me within 12 hours and started working on the case right away. The ladies did not judge make me feel uncomfortable about my situation and they was very honest about the whole case from beginning to end. They did not make me feel like I was just a client they made me feel like I was part of the team being available anytime of the day or night. They work so well to together as a team and communicated with each other to the point if I contacted the office all the staff could assist me with any question. They kept me informed with all document and contact with the ex attorney.
I felt very secure with their law firm cause they was very knowledgeable about my whole case, being honest and upfront from the beginning gave a sense of comfort. I am very satisfied with all their work, knowledge, with caring attitude and concerns that they all came together as a team and poured into my case. As a person that never thought I would never go through this situation after 23 years of marriage it was a blessing to find and awesome group of ladies that gave their all for the best interest of me.
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07 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
In a difficult and protracted divorce action Brione Pattison walked and sometimes held my hand through the legal ramifications and the financial decisions involved in my case. She was always straightforward, but also patient to answer my questions and try to move the case forward.
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03 Jan, 2017 by Zayd
I would not consider hiring a lawyer besides Mr. Winiker. I spent nine and a half years in the Feds, the last six of which I was held indefinitely - without a release date. Over the years, several lawyers jumped on and off of my case. All of them were more well-known, far more expensive than Mr. Winiker, and they accomplished nothing. Mr. Winiker handled myself (I'm not easy to work with), my family, the court, and the prosecution with the utmost professionalism, attention, and competence at every step. Most importantly, he accomplished what many would have thought impossible. Mr. Winiker had me free in very little time. I spent nearly a decade reading cases in prison. I am doubtful that another lawyer like Mr. Winiker can still be found in the federal system, at any price. It is unlikely that my co-defendant and I would have spent a day in prison if we had known Mr. Winiker from the start. I wholeheartedly recommend him and authorize him to give you my contact info if you would like more details about my case or his representation.
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05 Dec, 2012 by Anthony
Ms. Rawls was assigned to my case in the Spring of 2003 upon my conviction of Conspiracy to Commit First Degree Murder. I was sentenced to almost 21 years.
Ms. Rawls assured me she was the finest lawyer in her field. She kept me up to date on every aspect of my case; and answered all my correspondence promptly.
She asked for, and received oral arguments in my case. When she wrote me after the oral arguments were held, at first she responded that perhaps she did not have the courts attention as they asked no questions. Eventually, they asked a minimal of questions.
Her opponent, the State Attorney General, could not get a word in as she was peppered with questions from the court.
Apparently, Ms. Rawls was extremely well prepared, because she did her homework long before the oral arguments. I received my letter from Ms. Rawls about 4 weeks later stating the Court reversed my decision unanimously, 3-0. This was an accurate synopsis of what I remember the course of my events during my case.
From the moment Ms. Rawls took my case, until the court over turned my conviction, was 14 months. I spent 14 months in prison as opposed to 21 years all because of Ms. Rawls and her expertise.
Three weeks after I received Ms. Rawls' letter telling me that my convictions were over turned, I walked out of prison. To this day, I call Ms. Rawls on the anniversary of my release (20 JUNE 04) and thank her for doing what I thought no one could do.
If you are thinking of a criminal appeals lawyer, there is only one person to call: Leslie Rawls.
I have no problem putting my name to this.
Thank you Ms. Rawls for all you have done,
Anthony
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11 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
When I was in a car wreck, Whitney helped to settle my claim quickly and efficiently. She worked with the insurance company to obtain a settlement on my behalf that was fair and just and I would work with her again in a heartbeat.
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19 Sep, 2013 by Rhonda
I would highly recommend Mr. Garella. He has been attentive, detailed and (important to me) has kept me informed every step of the way. He has been honest when asked about the potential outcome of the case. Kiel is very knowledgeable and he will fight to win!
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14 Sep, 2024 by Alissa duke-sui
Preston Dole has been exceedingly great with any inquiries I've had, as well as very attentive and communicative! I couldn't recommend him enough! The company as a whole seems decent, but I always request to work with Preston!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Stacey niverth
I'm from New Jersey and sought out a lawyer in South Carolina do to 2 citations i recieved. I googled lawyers and Jody was at the top of the list. Jody handled my case in a timely matter with a ton of communication. I recommend Jody for all of your lawyer needs.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Karma williams
The best in North Carolina you can’t go wrong!! Very professional the process of the courts was so much easier with him by my side!
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21 Oct, 2024 by Lucas souza
Great lawyer. Jody took care of my notification without any problem. Thanks, my friend.
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17 Apr, 2018 by Laurel
Libby James is an amazing attorney. I hired her during the worst part of my life: my divorce and custody and dispute I was broken and clueless. She fought for me, advised me, and navigated me.
She made the worse part of my life bearable. She kicked tail.
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08 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Libby is a bulldog in divorce cases. She ran circles around my ex's 'country' lawyer, and got me the best settlement package imaginable. We never had to go to court, and she controlled the entire nasty situation after my wife's infidelity. I got the kids, the house, the cars, and alimony payments, and my ex has to write a check for 12 years to pay for her indiscretions.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Dot pender
20 Nov, 2024 by Mike smith
Outstanding people whom display a clear knowledge of the expertise one needs and are committed to their clients
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26 Sep, 2024 by Charles leonard
I worked with Cindy to update my will and other documents. She provided the very professional service and excellent advice. I highly recommend her.
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02 Oct, 2017 by Chris goulet
23 Jan, 2025 by Lisa giovanniello
Absolutely fantastic service at Robinson Bradshaw in Charlotte! Cary Davis was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, really taking the time to understand my needs and guide me. I hope you never need them, but I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a top litigation attorney!
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05 Dec, 2023 by Eric orozco
25 May, 2022 by Meg sandlin
Matt Sawchak went above and beyond to help with some trouble I am having with the Home Inspection Board. He sent me relevant cases and gave me all kinds of good advice and direction and didn't charge me. If you need a rockstar attorney Matt Sawchak is your guy.
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23 Nov, 2020 by Robert tolley
13 Oct, 2020 by Chuck johnson
Thoroughly reviewed my need for representation.
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29 Aug, 2020 by Kapil jagtiani
My COVID signing experience was flawless. They had outdoor and in-car signing. All staff took great precautions. Thank you
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12 Dec, 2024 by Austin brewer
Worst law firm that I have ever dealt with. I would totally recommend someone else. Southpark family law is unprofessional on all levels. They will not take time for you nor your case but will take the time to collect or ask about there money over and over. They don’t follow their own contracts. You can never get a hold of Meg and then you have multiple people in your file when you hired only one lawyer. I really don’t understand how any of them have there License to do this. I’m telling yall to stay away from this law firm, they will totally disappoint you.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Amanda wuelfing
I paid this firm over a month ago to complete a simple deed transaction for me. We had a call to discuss exactly what I needed and was assured this was not a problem. They would never respond to me by phone even though I was told I would be called back by the receptionist on multiple occasions. Over the month I never received details on the process. At the end of the month they sent me an email to tell me they were not experienced enough to handle my simple deed transfer and refunded me my money. Throughout the process I simply needed follow up or a call to discuss the status. I don't like to leave a bad review but this was very disappointing.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Elizabeth plageman
Jeneva Vazquez has been super helpful with helping my entire family with estate planning. She’s responsive, professional, and great to work with!
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13 Jul, 2019 by Khuram bashir
Our firm consulted providence Law and had a very bad experience. Lets start with basics. The law firm required basic information, what is your firms name, what is the owners name, what is the address etc. and why are you requiring our services. We provided. 2nd step, make payment. Done. 3rd step is for Providence Law to execute. Well guess what, nope. Providence Law repeats step 1. and sends you an invoice for step 2. Well, here comes time for step 3... Nope not again, another one of their representative will call you and repeat step 1 and step 2 and send you an invoice for it. In step 1 and 2 you end up paying $6k in fees. Yes, they did file something, finally they did something, a filing of about 2k’s worth. And then they send you a termination letter when you don’t want to repeat step 1 and 2 any longer. When you try to call and call for an explanation they DON’T ANSWER but send you a legal letter stating representation is terminated. LOL, WOW... I am trying to warn anyone out there..
Well Guess what providence Law. I am not asking for any additional legal services, I’ve been calling you NOT for additional services, NO sir, all I’ve been calling, calling for our original documentation but you guys don’t respond. I will now publicly ask for our original documents filed. Which NEVER previously provided, NO, NO, NO.. Do not say you have originally provided the document. That will be a lie.. after many calls you finally after me proving you never originally gave us documentation, you sent original filings. But there has been lot more documents missing. If you called me Mr. Craig Morgan I could have explained, but you never returned our calls, not even to explain why termination. And I’ve been calling and calling to ask for original documentation but no response. Legal letter you sent saying copies of our documentation will be sent for additional cost. $8k later... WOW...people this is called a legal robbery. Be careful everyone. Don’t Call Providence Law. Do Not seek their consultation. You won’t get anything but a bill for What is You Name.
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02 Mar, 2019 by Kippen priest
Craig Morgan was beyond helpful in explaining all of my questions and concerns. Looking forward to doing business with him and Providence Law for all of my future attorney needs.
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05 Oct, 2018 by Ryan fullen
Purchasing a franchise is an intimidating process. But Craig Morgan, with Providence Law, was able to walk me through the process and explain all the lawyer jargon, making me much more comfortable. This firm is a must if anyone is contemplating entering into the world of the franchise. Knowledge is power!
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22 Sep, 2024 by Renee stephanie toure
13 Nov, 2023 by Scott callahan
02 Jul, 2023 by Jay w.
Sleazy Firm. Details to follow! This matter has been settled.
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22 Sep, 2024 by Renee stephanie toure
13 Nov, 2023 by Scott callahan
02 Jul, 2023 by Jay w.
Sleazy Firm. Details to follow! This matter has been settled.
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22 Sep, 2024 by Renee stephanie toure
13 Nov, 2023 by Scott callahan
02 Jul, 2023 by Jay w.
Sleazy Firm. Details to follow! This matter has been settled.
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22 Sep, 2024 by Renee stephanie toure
13 Nov, 2023 by Scott callahan
02 Jul, 2023 by Jay w.
Sleazy Firm. Details to follow! This matter has been settled.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Mark walker
What an amazing and awesome job
Thank you so much!!!!!!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Vanessa
Horrible law firm! They are eager to get you signed up, but then are slow as molasses to win your case! I almost lost my claim. David was ok when the other insurance company didn’t accept liability when the other driver was clearly at fault! Glad I changed law firms and back on track to winning my claim. Choosing this law firm almost cost me thousands in losses!
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17 Oct, 2024 by Lisa hassell-gates
They were great! I got more than expected and Mr. Mitchner was friendly and on point with everything! Highly recommend!
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02 Jan, 2025 by Ali robbins
I cannot speak highly enough about Delaney and her legal team. Despite reaching out during a holiday, Delaney responded promptly and with a thorough explanation of why the firm couldn’t represent our case. Her professionalism, sincerity, and attention to detail were unmatched, especially compared to the dismissive responses we’ve received from other highly reputed firms in the area.
Delaney’s compassionate and respectful approach truly stood out. She took the time to review our case carefully and provided thoughtful feedback, which was greatly appreciated during a stressful time. While the firm wasn’t able to take our case, I wouldn’t hesitate to refer others to them or seek their expertise in the future. Their professionalism and genuine care for their clients do not go unnoticed. Thank you, Delaney for setting such a high standard in legal representation!
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29 Nov, 2024 by Cindy matthews
My husband and I were very pleased with Elam & Rousseaux. They were professional, caring and competent through the entire process. Highly recommended.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Tammy taylor
Was willing to help when no one else would, Nice, got the job done.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Adeline wilkes
Good morning, my name is Adeline Wilkes.
I have been working with Darryl Gaddy for several months on my claim. I could call anytime and always got a quick response.
He is very professional and knowledgeable about the law and car accidents. He has been very supportive to me and my needs through out this ordeal.
He truly fought for me and for that I am grateful.
I would highly recommend Ted A. Greves and Associates to all my family, friends and colleagues.
Thank you Mr. Gaddy it has been a pleasure working with you
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07 Oct, 2024 by Samantha watts
After a harrowing four-year period that nearly robbed me of all hope, Ted Greve & Associates gave me a listening ear. They willingly accepted my case and championed my cause at every turn. Mr. Justin Lowenberger, alongside his paralegal Samantha, stood by me throughout the ordeal, addressing any questions I had and providing reassurance. Honestly, I can't imagine where I'd be without their advocacy when no one else would stand by me. I am thoroughly satisfied with the outcome and would strongly endorse Justin as a lawyer who will tenaciously fight for you. My heartfelt thanks to Justin and Samantha for bringing light back into my life.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Billy hudson
I wanted to thank Ted Greve and Associates for all of their hard work on my case. I am beyond happy with the outcome of my case, and a big thank you to Darrell for helping me get the compensation I deserved for my injuries. If you are in a car accident and need an attorney, HIRE THIS FIRM!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Johnny jose azzalini
27 Mar, 2024 by Rion caughman
28 Nov, 2023 by Deborah williams
An extremely difficult Estate Manner was handled with ease…. You can’t ask for anything better than this law firm
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Appeals Lawyer Can Do for You
An appeals lawyer specializes in representing clients in appellate courts, challenging or defending lower court decisions. If you believe that a legal error was made during your trial or that the court’s decision was unjust, an appeals lawyer can help you appeal the ruling to a higher court. They work to identify mistakes made during the trial, such as improper application of law, exclusion of key evidence, or jury misconduct. On the other hand, if you're defending a favorable judgment, an appeals lawyer can help protect the decision from being overturned.
Appeals lawyers don’t retry the case but instead focus on legal arguments and procedural issues to convince the appellate court to either overturn, modify, or uphold the lower court’s decision.
When Should I Hire an Appeals Lawyer?
Hiring an appeals lawyer is necessary when you are involved in a legal appeal, either as the appellant (the party appealing the case) or the appellee (the party defending the lower court’s ruling). Common situations in which you should hire an appeals lawyer include:
- Appealing a conviction or ruling: If you’ve been convicted in a criminal case or lost a civil case and believe the decision was based on legal errors or improper procedures, an appeals lawyer can review the case and file an appeal on your behalf.
- Challenging a sentence: In criminal cases, if you feel that the sentence is excessively harsh or not in line with legal standards, an appeals lawyer can work to reduce or modify the sentence.
- Defending a lower court ruling: If the opposing party has filed an appeal to overturn a favorable ruling, an appeals lawyer can help defend the judgment and argue that the lower court’s decision should be upheld.
- Complex legal issues: If your case involves complicated legal issues or interpretations of the law, an appeals lawyer can provide the necessary expertise to argue those points effectively before an appellate court.
- Reviewing trial errors: Appeals lawyers can examine whether mistakes such as jury misconduct, improper exclusion or admission of evidence, or incorrect jury instructions occurred during the trial.
You should hire an appeals lawyer as soon as you decide to appeal or are informed that the other party is appealing the case, as appellate procedures are time-sensitive.
What Does an Appeals Lawyer Do?
An appeals lawyer provides specialized legal services to challenge or defend a lower court decision. Their role focuses on legal arguments, reviewing the trial record, and persuading the appellate court to either reverse or uphold the ruling. They can:
- Review the trial record: Appeals lawyers meticulously review transcripts, evidence, and rulings from the original trial to identify any legal errors or procedural mistakes that could be grounds for appeal.
- Prepare and file briefs: Appeals lawyers write legal briefs that present persuasive arguments to the appellate court. These briefs focus on the legal errors made during the trial and how they affected the outcome.
- Present oral arguments: In many appeals, lawyers present oral arguments before a panel of judges, explaining why the lower court’s decision should be reversed or upheld based on legal principles.
- Monitor case law developments: Appeals lawyers stay updated on changes in the law and precedents set by higher courts, which can be crucial in shaping the arguments they present during the appeal.
- Provide legal advice on the likelihood of success: Appeals lawyers can offer a realistic assessment of your chances of winning the appeal based on the legal errors and evidence from the trial.
How Are Appeals Lawyers Paid?
Appeals lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the appeal and the amount of work required to prepare briefs and present arguments. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many appeals lawyers charge by the hour due to the significant amount of research, writing, and preparation involved in appeals. Hourly rates can range from $200 to $600 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the case’s complexity.
- Flat fee: For some straightforward appeals, a lawyer may charge a flat fee that covers all the work necessary to complete the appeal.
- Retainer fee: In complex or high-stakes appeals, a lawyer may require a retainer, an upfront payment that covers the initial stages of the appeal. The lawyer then bills against this retainer for ongoing work.
It's important to discuss fees and costs upfront with your lawyer during the initial consultation to ensure you understand the financial commitment involved.
How Much Does an Appeals Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an appeals lawyer varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the amount of work involved. General cost estimates include:
- Straightforward appeals: For simpler appeals, such as those involving minor legal errors, fees can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the scope of work.
- Complex appeals: Appeals that involve complicated legal issues, multiple grounds for appeal, or high-stakes outcomes can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000 or more, especially if the case requires extensive legal research, brief writing, and oral arguments.
- Hourly rates: Many appeals lawyers charge hourly rates ranging from $200 to $600 per hour, with higher rates often associated with more experienced attorneys or particularly challenging cases.
Before proceeding with your appeal, it’s crucial to ask for a clear estimate of the costs involved so you can budget appropriately.
Top Questions to Ask an Appeals Lawyer
Before hiring an appeals lawyer, it’s essential to ask questions to ensure they are well-suited for your case and that you understand the appeals process. Important questions include:
-
What experience do you have with appeals?
Ensure the lawyer has substantial experience handling appellate cases, particularly in the area of law relevant to your case (e.g., criminal, civil, family, etc.). -
How do you charge for appeals?
Ask whether the lawyer charges an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a retainer, and request an estimate of the total costs for handling your appeal. -
What is the likelihood of success for my appeal?
A good appeals lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case’s strengths and weaknesses and the chances of winning the appeal. -
How long will the appeal process take?
Ask for an estimate of how long the appeal process might take, from filing the initial briefs to a final decision by the appellate court. -
Will you personally handle my appeal?
In larger law firms, junior attorneys or legal assistants may handle some of the research or drafting. Clarify who will be responsible for preparing and arguing your case. -
What is your approach to handling appeals?
Some lawyers may be more inclined to focus on procedural issues, while others emphasize broader legal arguments. Make sure the lawyer’s approach aligns with your goals.
How to Check the Credibility of an Appeals Lawyer
To ensure that you’re hiring a reputable appeals lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for appellate experience: Review the lawyer’s website or profile to ensure they specialize in appellate law and have successfully handled appeals similar to yours.
- Check client reviews and testimonials: Look for client feedback on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to get insight into the lawyer’s track record and client satisfaction.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients who can speak to their expertise and success in handling appeals.
- Look for recognition in appellate law: Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Appellate Lawyers (AAAL) or awards and recognition in appellate law can indicate a lawyer’s expertise in this specialized area.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with an appeals lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Trial transcripts and court records: The lawyer will need a complete record of the original trial, including transcripts, motions, exhibits, and the final judgment or order.
- Legal briefs from the trial: If any briefs or motions were filed during the trial, bring copies so the appeals lawyer can review the legal arguments that were presented.
- Written decision or verdict: Bring the court’s written ruling, verdict, or decision so the lawyer can identify any potential errors or issues to raise on appeal.
- Questions about the appeal process: Write down any questions you have about the appeal’s timeline, costs, and potential outcomes.
- List of potential legal errors: If you believe specific mistakes were made during the trial (e.g., improper evidence, legal misinterpretations), provide a list of those issues.
Being well-prepared for your consultation allows the lawyer to assess your case more effectively and provide the best guidance on how to proceed with your appeal.
