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01 Aug, 2023 by Brian oken
Wayne is my go-to lawyer for legal advice and counsel. I’ve sought his advice on numerous matters all resolved with favorable outcomes. It doesn’t matter if you’re working through a car accident or whatever situation you find yourself in and you need an experienced legal opinion. He is highly competent, puts you on the right path to resolve issues, knows how to best represent a client, answers questions without fanfare and will call you back when he says he will. Wayne Cohen clearly loves what he does and he’s very good at it. I’ve referred Wayne numerous times to my closest friends and colleagues without any hesitation.
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25 Jun, 2023 by Anne burkin
Working with Wayne has been a terrific experience. Thank you, Wayne, for your professionalism.
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21 Jun, 2023 by Dafne lavi
Wayne Cohen is amazing!
I spoke to him several times about a legal matter, and he was very responsive and kind. He goes out of his away his away to make himself available and gives thoughtful legal advice. He has a very strong command of the law, and spoke to me both in the evenings, and on weekends. Highly recommended him!
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29 Apr, 2016 by Michael
My Father and I have been coming to Mr. Frieden for legal representation and advice for a number of years. His professionalism and fairness with every case is something to appreciate.
He is extremely resourceful and able to research his cases to make you feel comfortable that he is protecting you and representing you at the highest level. Mr. Frieden has always been very reasonable with fees and his retainers- He is the only attorney I know, that actually will give you back a portion of the retainer, if the work has not been put into it. In my professional life dealing with attorneys, I have never experience that before.
He is one of the smartest individuals we know in the legal business and I would recommend him to anyone that needs good representation.
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26 Apr, 2016 by Janene
I hired James to be my attorney . I can't even begin to say enough positive things about him. He has been extremely honest and resourceful in my case. He is also a very caring man and is always working hard for his clients. I'm very lucky to have found such an attorney to fight for me and also do the best to benefit me in my case. James never made decisions on his own, he always consulted me first to get my input. I would recommend him to anyone who needs and attorney and would hire him. Thanks James for all you've done and continue to do for me.
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25 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Jim Frieden represented us on several matters involving real estate, corporate organization and litigation. He was enormously creative, hard-working, dedicated to us as clients, conducted extensive research to ensure his answers were correct, came up with creative new solutions to difficult problems, was tenacious and firm in dealing with opposing attorneys, exhibited enormous integrity and honesty in all his dealings, and supported us throughout on a personal level. His charges were always reasonable and justified. We can recommend him without qualification and would hire him again.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Kim
David helped me with a case regarding discrimination at my place of employment. I was a good worker, so I never thought it would happen to me. And then it did. It was a complicated case as there were many years of behavior from many people and a variety actions involved. The lawsuit itself lasted for many years too.
I always felt confident that David had the knowledge and experience to carry me through every step of the way - and there were a lot of steps! If I had a question, David was prompt to reply.
I’m still so impressed with how much David knows about California and federal employment law and how much real life experience he has with all of it. David knows how to build a case from the beginning to go to court. Of course, it’s always better to settle, but you’re in a real pickle if you can’t settle for some reason and your attorney doesn’t know how to win a case in court in front of a judge and jury. David was prepared for every legal angle. It was like playing chess - he was several steps ahead of everyone else.
Even in the most stressful situations, David was as cool as a cucumber and a consummate professional.
I am so grateful to David for all his help; I really can’t recommend David highly enough!
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20 Sep, 2016 by Candace
I needed help with a dire situation at work. Someone didn't like me and wanted me gone, despite an outstanding job performance on record. This was in the public sector so there was also a union involved and procedure that needed to be followed. I knew I needed an attorney, but didn't know how to find one that had the expertise and street smarts that I was looking for. I made numerous phone calls and consulted (in person) with two other attorneys before asking David Duchrow if he'd represent me. I am so happy he said yes.
My situation dragged out for months and time and time again, I'd be told one thing by the union (who was there to represent me) and something different by David. With his experience in appeals ("appellate law"), David was always one step ahead of the union because David would already know how this or that situation played out in the courts -- and he was well informed of the latest court decisions. It was this big picture type of thinking that ultimately got me a decent settlement considering the employer started out offering $0.
There were times I asked myself, "Do I really want to pay for an attorney? I have a union going to bat for me, won't that be enough?" All I can say is, I'm so very glad I had Mr. Duchrow on my team. I can confidently say that the only reason I got anything at all is because I had David Duchrow guiding and advising.
David Duchrow sees the big picture, the chess pieces, even when others trained in the law (and specifically in employment) couldn't see the same things he did with the same information. He's also one of the nicest and even-tempered people I've met. He was always patient and I did ask a lot of questions. David was careful to walk me through the logic of every piece of advice he gave to ensure I got it and understood the reasoning behind his recommendations. This helped me buy in to whatever it was he was suggesting and also gave me confidence when I had to face the ugliness of the situation before me.
The other thing I'll say is that his rate is extremely reasonable and David doesn't nickel and dime when representing you.
If you're in an employment situation and need an expert eye, someone with true street smarts or find yourself represented by a union, but wondering if you could do better, my short answer is this: Yes, you can do better. David Duchrow is the best I've come across when I was searching for an employment attorney. I'm extremely glad I decided to spend money on proper representation and I'm even more glad that it was on the right attorney.
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07 Nov, 2011 by H.d.
David did very well with my case, which involved several complicated issues against a big Fortune 100 company. He was extremely easy to work with, responded to my inquiries in a timely manner, and very patiently remained a strong and assuring presence for me throughout the case. If you have a complicated legal matter, then David is the lawyer you want on you side. He just simply rules as an attorney. Good luck to you!
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16 Oct, 2012 by John
Ms. Rehm specialty is appeals. In this area she is very knowledgeable and competent.
Ms. Rehm has been extraordinarily helpful and thorough. She always took the time to fully explain the processes at hand. She stayed on top of all proceedings and requirements. If something appeared to be neglected she immediately contacted me.
Through all of this she has been most gracious and kind.
If you are in need of an Appeals Attorney I would highly recommend Joanna Rehm
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08 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
We have worked with Mr. Bertzyk on a very complicated matter, concerning several highly sensitive issues, for some time. All of his work; petitions, briefs, filings are exceptionally thorough, well written and researched, as is everything I have seen come from his office. He is very professional, accessible, well spoken, with a quick & excellent grasp of the facts, coupled with a great recall of what has been covered, previously, which also shows him as a great listener. He genuinely cares about, not just the quality of his work, but client well-being, and his chosen profession, in general. He believes in the importance of what he does: The duties and depth of responsibility inherent in his role as attorney, and the outcome of any case, can have a huge impact on the continuing quality of life for any family, corporation, or individual client. Without reservation, I can recommend him as one of the most sincere, principled, and ethical attorneys I have had the pleasure of working with... and, I have worked with many, in several capacities, and on many different issues throughout the years. I cannot make such a blanket, positive statement, across the board, about any of the others. He is brilliant & a joy to work with. We are grateful to have him on our side.
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22 Apr, 2015 by Al
I cannot recommend Joshua Needle highly enough. He is an excellent appellate lawyer, expert in criminal matters and a fine writer, a trait not shared by many of his peers.
I engaged Josh three years ago to step in and write an emergency appeal for a case that was already on the appellate court’s calendar. The first attorney I hired completely bolloxed the appeal both in conception and execution. Josh was able to step in, review the (extensive) trial record, write a compelling brief and present oral arguments in an efficient and timely fashion.
Subsequently, Josh provided immeasurable assistance when we found ourselves in arbitration with our original appellate attorney in an effort to retrieve a fee we felt wasn’t earned. The OCBA agreed with us and ordered the fee returned.
Our relationship with Josh was extended when this attorney, rather than return the fee as ordered, instead sued us for breach of contract. Josh represented us through a ridiculous thicket of motions, discovery, expert witnesses, idiot judges, arbitration and resolution.
Even though my relationship with Josh sprang from one appeal, circumstances enabled me to see Josh at work on three different actions. He demonstrated considerable legal breadth and helped rehabilitate my confidence in the legal profession.
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28 Nov, 2011 by Kathyt
Mr. Gabbert is an amazing lawyer, beyond knowledgable and really fights hard for his client. He will always respond to your calls and fight for you as if you are family. He does not give up even years later and he gets you the outcome you want and need. He is very proffesional and trustworthy! He is a tremendous Forfieture and federal Defense lawyer. He gets straight to the point and does not sugar coat anything. He is aggresive with the government and very well respected in the courts and upon other lawyers. I would recomend him to everyone that is fighting any kind of case, you will get the results you want and rest assured that a lawyer is truely working in your side!!
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05 Jul, 2022 by Gabriel perez
I used him to setup my home business and he was great!. He was very communicative and explained things so I can understand them. He knows how to navigate the legal system. He is also a broker so I will probably use him when I sell my house as well.
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04 Jul, 2022 by Matthew nyden
Amazing service! Attorney that has great attention to detail, extremely hands on.
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01 Jul, 2022 by Cari
Naveed is a fantastic entertainment lawyer! He was referred to me by Kathy Heller, who runs the entertainment law program at Chapman University, so I had high hopes, and was not disappointed. We worked together on a sticky contract, and his advice was useful and nuanced for both my experience in the industry and my goals. Now I regularly refer him to other writers. He's also a generous human--he did a Q & A for a screenwriting lab that I teach, and gave the students some clear legal basics, so they are more prepared for a career.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Ly pharmacy
Labor Law PC has a fantastic team of specialists who are incredibly knowledgeable in their field. Every interaction was professional and informative, and they took the time to explain everything clearly. The team's expertise and dedication really set them apart!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jessica mohseni
Great experience working with Danny and this entire team - they were always responsive and helpful. i would def recommend choosing to help with any labor issue.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Angela cruz
I had some issues with a past employer and I finding this lawyer was the best thing that happen to me. I highly recommend
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08 Sep, 2024 by Ly pharmacy
Labor Law PC has a fantastic team of specialists who are incredibly knowledgeable in their field. Every interaction was professional and informative, and they took the time to explain everything clearly. The team's expertise and dedication really set them apart!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jessica mohseni
Great experience working with Danny and this entire team - they were always responsive and helpful. i would def recommend choosing to help with any labor issue.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Angela cruz
I had some issues with a past employer and I finding this lawyer was the best thing that happen to me. I highly recommend
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08 Sep, 2024 by Ly pharmacy
Labor Law PC has a fantastic team of specialists who are incredibly knowledgeable in their field. Every interaction was professional and informative, and they took the time to explain everything clearly. The team's expertise and dedication really set them apart!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jessica mohseni
Great experience working with Danny and this entire team - they were always responsive and helpful. i would def recommend choosing to help with any labor issue.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Angela cruz
I had some issues with a past employer and I finding this lawyer was the best thing that happen to me. I highly recommend
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10 Sep, 2024 by Salim kassam
This is the guy you want if you have a challenging tenant situation.
No bullshit, fair, effective.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Skyview realty
On a Thursday I suddenly realized that I would need legal representation (as a Real Estate Investor involved in an earnest money deposit dispute), in time for that upcoming Monday. After calling multiple real estate attorneys unable to assist with such short notice, I fortunately came across Avi Sinai, Esq., of Sinai Law Firm. What initially stood out about this attorney was that he personally answered the phone! Mr. Sinai also immediately listened to my urgent need and on this same day, confirmed being able to represent me. I was further blown away by Mr. Sinai's willingness to work through the weekend, so that he could provide a proper and timely response to the other party. In short, Attorney Avi’s responsiveness, cordiality and professionalism instantly put my mind at ease. I not only look forward to maintaining a relationship with Sinai Law Firm, but I also highly recommend this firm to others!
Renita H.
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03 May, 2024 by Nariman dehghani
Avi was great in helping us get our earnest money deposit back. We cancelled the escrow due to inspection contingency, but the sellers refused to return our money and lawyered up. Avi drafted a strong letter, and even prepared us for mediation. His strategic approach eventually convinced the irrational sellers to return our deposit. What I appreciated most was how accessible Avi was. Highly recommend him for his dedication and effective communication.
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28 Nov, 2023 by American property management
I have been a client of Marc Bronstein firm for the past 25 years. Marc and his associates have handled numerous business and personal legal, accounting, tax, and estate matters for me. Mr. Bronstein and his team are very knowledgeable, thorough, and easy to work with. I highly recommend using their firm.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Catherine landis
Marc has handled our small business corporation filings for years. This past year we had a different kind of issue, a flood in our offices, and we were having problems getting our insurance company to pay out fully on the claim until I got Marc involved. I'm so happy to have all that behind me now and only wish I had contacted him sooner. His office is very professional and always responds immediately when contacted. I highly recommend him.
Catherine Landis
Vice President
R. Landis Interiors, Inc.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Lisa kay smith
We have been working with Marc and Brett for a handful of years now and would highly recommend them. They have assisted us both with our business and personal legal needs, always in a timely and friendly manner.
A great asset to have on our team!
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05 Jul, 2022 by Gabriel perez
I used him to setup my home business and he was great!. He was very communicative and explained things so I can understand them. He knows how to navigate the legal system. He is also a broker so I will probably use him when I sell my house as well.
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04 Jul, 2022 by Matthew nyden
Amazing service! Attorney that has great attention to detail, extremely hands on.
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01 Jul, 2022 by Cari
Naveed is a fantastic entertainment lawyer! He was referred to me by Kathy Heller, who runs the entertainment law program at Chapman University, so I had high hopes, and was not disappointed. We worked together on a sticky contract, and his advice was useful and nuanced for both my experience in the industry and my goals. Now I regularly refer him to other writers. He's also a generous human--he did a Q & A for a screenwriting lab that I teach, and gave the students some clear legal basics, so they are more prepared for a career.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Jessica
Thanks Chris Ingram law office for a smooth and straight forward process for my EB1 case. Let me breakdown my experience with them:
1. Intake: detailed breakdown of the categories that I could apply for. Tim was my intake specialist and he answered all the questions I had and gave me confidence to choose this lawfirm to support my case.
2. Onboard: pay the lawyer fees accordingly. I started end of Jan 2024.
3. Paperwork preparation: the team was available to talk to me via conference call appointment a few times. Majority of the communication will be via email. For my case, I focused the energy on 3 categories + Merit. The team shared the template for the recommendation letter for me. However, from data gathering and writing recommendation letter for signing, I had to all do it by myself. Once having all the approved document for each category, then they would proceed with having the category for writing by the legal team. Things happen in series so my entire case was not ready to be shipped out till end of August 2024, so plan your time wisely.
I was hoping the team could be a bit faster, and they got back with additional charges if I wanted to expedite the case filing. I think this was just misunderstanding and later they clarified their intention, which I appreciate the transparent and professional communication language that the entire team upholds. Sometimes the email feels a bit generic and repetitive, but maybe that’s part of professionalism and ensure of constant reminder for your case.
4. Case shipping: they shipped with priority Fedex mail and provide me with a scanned document for the entire package, so I know things are included part of my petition. A tracking number was shared once the case got shipped as well.
I paid for PP, and received the decision notice in time promised.
I’m grateful for my case worker team for all the attention you paid for my case: Jan, Mario, Mary, Jackie, Busola 🙏🏻🎉 overall, I highly recommend this law firm for your EB1 needs. They are legit!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Ishan khot
06 Aug, 2024 by Chandan saxena
I engaged the Law Offices of Chris M. Ingram for my EB1A visa application. The firm's systematic and thorough approach to gathering evidence, developing case arguments, and client communication is highly impressive. My experience with them has been outstanding and has exceeded all my expectations. I am deeply thankful to Rhea, Judith, and all the staff members who worked directly and indirectly on my case. Thanks to their efforts in making the entire process flawless, my I-140 and adjustment of status (I-485) were approved quickly without any issues. The entire team at the Law Offices of Chris M. Ingram is professional, well-informed, and exceptionally supportive. I highly recommend Chris Ingram’s firm for their expertise, responsiveness, and unwavering dedication to clients, which greatly eased my anxiety and ensured our green card success.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Martha
Jeff price represented me ,he hired investigators helping him gather information and was very professional handling my case . Going to trial can be very nerve racking ,his lawyers were always very professional, outstanding lawyer.
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20 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
My civil rights were Violated, the policeman, told me to find a attorney,for it was a civil matter. My whole world felt so ugly, after my rights were Violated I was blessed to find Jeff Dominic price,I met with him ,it felt good to find such a lawer who knew my rights were Violated, I hired mr price, Mr price actually cared ,and fought for me ,he won my case. It felt wonderful to know mr Jeff price, saw to it justice was served.when no one on this universe cared,mr Jeff price did,mr price knows your rights ,and has no problem fighting,them for ,his clients ,Mr. Price did a fabulous, outstanding job. I recommend mr Jeff price any day, mr. Jeff Price had excellent communication skills, and kept me informed, throughout the whole representation.
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12 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Jeff Dominic Price was my attorney in a court matter.
I'm posting this review in the interest of justice & the public's right to know. (If this site deletes my review, as it is notorious for doing, then I'll post this review on a well-known site that's known for NOT removing posts, and I'll make known that THIS site chose to hide it, That way, this site, too, will be exposed).
He represented me in poor fashion. WHILE he was my attorney, he coerced me into relations. When I declined, he intentionally threw my case for his personal gain from the opposing side. Yet even before doing so, while the case was still active, he was frequently late with crucial filings which led to the judge imposing hefty sanctions. He also failed to show up to at least 3 court dates. The judge had to send the Marshal to get him & bring him to court. He's problematic in that he often alienated court staff, which made it doubly difficult for me as the petitioner. The former Honorable Judge Stephanie Sautner twice banned him from her court room, because he caused an uproar during court proceedings. Because the public has the right to this information to be able to make informed decisions, I am posting this factual review.
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18 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
He is diligent and honest. Will give you a realistic understanding of the potential outcomes.
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03 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
couldn't remember alot about my case was very lazy i had to do all the talking. he didn't back me up, handled my case poorly, and his staff was just as bad i dont know how he is still in business. maybe he was a good lawyer in the 60's but not anymore, dressed sloppy when we went to court really disappointing he should really retire
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20 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Knickerbocker is a disgrace for legal profession!! I too would give Richard zero rating if it was available, took money and never did anything on the case and when i requested refund he quickly wrote several pages and claimed he earned the money I gave him. Very dishonest and tricky! When you get to him you have one problem when you hire him you will have one more!! AVOID!
Also, not only is he rude, but his paralegal wife Saloy that answers his phone calls has a severe attitude.
Knickerbocker is hands down a terrible lawyer who did not help me, which is why I would never recommend this man to any friends or family. I hope karma comes back to him after how he's treated my family and clearly many of his unfortunate clients.
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16 Jan, 2024 by מיכאל יגאל maimon מימון
24 Sep, 2019 by Leah forrest
Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
