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09 Jan, 2025 by Bimal sangari
I whole-heartedly recommend the law services of LaRochelle Luna. They professionally handled my case and did an excellent job of providing legal services to represent me. Throughout the experience, I felt I was in good hands and they responded to my communications in a timely manner.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Sandra vasquez
Attorney Luna was a pleasure to speak with. She was very understanding and provided an amazing consult. Her fees are reasonable and she is very knowledgeable. She is a great attorney and a beautiful person at heart. I definitely recommend using her and her firm for any of your real estate/probate/ business needs.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Kara cantrellm
Chris was the most courteous well knowledge to lawyer that I've talked to. With the Cowboy Law Group it definitely is a win-win situation! I recommend them to anyone.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Prasad puligundla
I have never written a google review in my entire life, and this is my first review. I was brutally cheated by the Legal system and my Attorney (SB), and I believe he colluded with my ex-wife, Attorney (MM), and Children's Attorney (SW), appointed by the Court. I am devastated and helpless and can't believe this can happen in America. I applied for Divorce in October 2018 in a small town called Brenham in Texas. In June 2019, a temporary hearing occurred; my Attorney (SB), didn't ask questions related to how I raised my kids and didn't cross-verify many key items what my ex-wife said to the Court. Also, he didn't file a Request for Relief before the Temporary hearing, which my ex-wife's Attorney (MM) pointed out. The Court decided to give Child custody to my ex-wife and I was kicked out of my home. My ex-wife's Attorney (MM) filed a petition to appoint a Children's Attorney just a couple of weeks before the Jury trial was originally planned, and the Court immediately appointed SW. She met for the first time, and I shared some key OFW messages and shared details about how my ex-wife was not cooperating with co-parenting, doing parent alienation, and the kids' grades were going downhill. She asked me to send all the OFW photos, videos, and text messages, and I sent an email. After sending the email, She even refused to acknowledge the email and refused to meet 2nd time as she told me she would do. My kids always share what Atttorney says to them, and I asked my Attorney (SB), why Children Attorney (SW) did not ask which parent did what before the Divorce. After this, Children Attorney (SW) somehow came to know; she started telling my kids that their conversation was private and should not be shared with anyone. She took the stance that my ex-wife should get kids custody and never put together one single exhibit to support it other than using my ex-wife's Exhibits. I shared this with my Attorney (SB), and nothing changed. She even met with my kids at my ex-wife's place after the Jury decision and told my kids that conversation is private and can't be shared with anyone. After several postponements of the Jury trial, the Jury trial was held in August 2022. By God's grace and Robby Neal help and support, I could share most of my story with the Jury and how I raised my two little boys. After a seven-day trial, the Jury gave me kids custody, and Divorce was granted in favor of me. Finally, the divorce decree was signed in August 2023 with split custody, and the property was split unfairly and unjustly, and I ended up with no money in my bank account with thousands and thousands of loans (More than 100K). Even though Jury game me Right to designate Primary residence, the Court decided to give the home to my ex-wife and now some how law changed. After Temporary hearing, The Judge gave same Right to designate primary residence and then my Attorney (SB) told me that my ex-wife designated my house as Primary residence and I am kicked out. I called many Applette court attorneys and found out that I couldn't afford to fight for Justice. During the process, I had an appointment with Susan, and before she called me on October 4, 2023, she had reviewed my case on a high level. After asking me a few questions, she agreed to represent me, and the fees she quoted were 70% less than the lowest amount I heard so far. On October 5, 2023, I signed the contract. I have no words to describe how grateful I am to have Susan as my Attorney for the appeal. She is a Guardian angel sent by God during devastating moments in my life to help me and fight for Justice. Thank you to Susan and her team for helping me during this process. From bottom of heart, THANK YOU and THANK YOU Susan for helping me to fight for Justice and THANK YOU god for helping me to find incredible Susan.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Thomas koovalloor
Here, I am introducing a law Firm named Clouthier Law, PLLC. I am 75 years old now, and I become a Victim of Elder Investment Fraud, and I was looking for a competent attorney to represent me and few other victims who were severely harmed in a case which we filed in 296th, Judicial District Court Collin County Texas . I contacted almost 100 reputed law Firms in Texas and other States, but I noticed that no law Firms were ready to represent the victims, especially Elderly Victims, because the Federal Lawmakers like FBI, FTC, SEC, DOJ, and their Prosecutors are the one who is handling the cases like Elder Investment fraud.As an Indian American I learned that language is the greatest barrier for me to talk to the American Attorneys. My First Language is MALAYALAM and English is my Second Language. Finally, I contacted attorney Susan Clouthier, who is residing in Texas, and I am in New York.Attorney Susan clearly understood my weakness, and very patiently listened my case, and offered me her service, and took the case. She reviewed the case, and came forward to represent us. In my opinion, this case is one of the "Notorious Case" in the history of Indian Americans, and I fully believe that Attorneys like Susan Clouthier will definitely win this case due to preponderance of Evidence in this case.In our case a Receiver was appointed to Investigate the case as per the request of the attorneys we hired. At the beginning the Receiver "Discovered" that there were "Multiple Badges of Fraud" committed by Former Directors of the company.Still the receiver made a settlement agreement with the Defendants and Closed the original case in the 296th, Court, and went to a different Court 471st Judicial District Court, Collin County, TX and filed a Case and misrepresented the court, and settled the case in favor of the defendants that severely " Harmed" elderly victims like me. So, we Opposed the receiver's decision with the help of Attorney Susan J. Clouthier, Esq., and filed an Appeal in the 5th COURT OF APPEALS, DALLAS, TEXAS.We, the severely harmed Elderly victims of Investment Fraud believe that we will get Justice from the HONORABLE JUDGE OF THE 5th COURT OF APPEALS, TX with the help of attorney Susan J. Clouthier and her team, because Attorney Susan and her team properly researched, investigated, and studied the case and prepared the Appellate Brief and filed it in the court. I fully believe that we, the elderly victims will win this case with the help of Attorney Susan Clouthier and her team.For Elderly Victims like us, Attorney Susan J. Clouthier and the Clouthier LAW, PLLC, is highly recommended. Thomas J. Koovalloor Member of Facebook, Twitter X, and LinkedIn.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Johnnie hargrave
Susan and her team have filed a brief in my Civil Appeal case. It is well written and I only hope it helps not just myself but others that may have been treated the same way by our Justice system. I have been very pleased in their ability in a situation that is pretty complicated. The degree of understanding and communication is rare when it should not be but finding someone that not only understands but fights for your rights is so appreciated. Johnnie Hargrave
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21 Dec, 2023 by Aravind panicker
Have been with this Law Firm for more than year. All the staff are professionals with lots of experience. I want to thank Madeline Morales and George for their exceptional service.
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30 Jun, 2023 by Omari thomas
Amaro law firm did great with my case. Juan Canencio did an awesome job at making sure I was updated, taken care of, and always listened to my concerns. Thank you for everything Amaro Law firm.
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05 Apr, 2023 by P v
I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the assistance of your marketing professional Lindsey Wohrer with her help in registering for an event. Due to a technical issue, I was having trouble registering online, and she was really helpful! I greatly appreciate her prompt and efficient help in resolving the issue. Once again, thank you for your excellent support and professionalism. I look forward to attending the event!
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18 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired the firm to represent me in a family court custody dispute. The firm was unorganized throughout the whole process. KC would miss court ordered mediation. There were files attached to my docket that did not belong me and communication was terrible. I would not recommend
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08 May, 2024 by Celeste vasquez
Professional, efficient, competent, and genuinely exhibited compassionate character as I explained my distressing matter.
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30 Nov, 2022 by S j
Attorney Bolton was very patient with me and helped me understand things going on in my situation with care and compassion. I highly recommend him!
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27 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. Seiler is super attorney. I was so lucky to have her as my attorney. Other attorneys only care about their fees. Ms. Seiler genuinely cared about me as person, and had my back every step of the way. She is extremely knowledgeable, experienced and compassionate attorney. In the courtroom, she was always very sharp. She thinks and looks at everything from various angles. She is always prepared. She kept me in the loop at every step. She fought for me at every stage. Whatever the opposing party threw at us, we won. She is very ethical and she knows the law very well. I wish I could give her a rating more than 10 on this site. I highly recommend Ms. Seiler.
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08 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Seiler was extremely knowledgeable and worked tirelessly on my case to provide the best possible, cost-effective outcome in a very timely manner. She thoroughly researched the facts, case law, spoke to those involved, kept a positive relationship with other counsel and kept me informed every step of the way. After attorneys in the past who forgot about me after my retainer check was cashed, Ms. Seiler's client centered approach to law was very refreshing. I highly recommend Ms. Seiler!
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08 May, 2024 by Celeste vasquez
Professional, efficient, competent, and genuinely exhibited compassionate character as I explained my distressing matter.
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30 Nov, 2022 by S j
Attorney Bolton was very patient with me and helped me understand things going on in my situation with care and compassion. I highly recommend him!
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22 Nov, 2022 by Karen x. garcia
Mr. Ramon Rivas was very professional and helped us every step of the way. Even before the interview, he made sure we had all the documents and all information we needed for the interview at the embassy. He was always a text or phone call away. I highly reccomend him!
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21 Dec, 2023 by Aravind panicker
Have been with this Law Firm for more than year. All the staff are professionals with lots of experience. I want to thank Madeline Morales and George for their exceptional service.
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30 Jun, 2023 by Omari thomas
Amaro law firm did great with my case. Juan Canencio did an awesome job at making sure I was updated, taken care of, and always listened to my concerns. Thank you for everything Amaro Law firm.
Read more Google Maps
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05 Apr, 2023 by P v
I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the assistance of your marketing professional Lindsey Wohrer with her help in registering for an event. Due to a technical issue, I was having trouble registering online, and she was really helpful! I greatly appreciate her prompt and efficient help in resolving the issue. Once again, thank you for your excellent support and professionalism. I look forward to attending the event!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Alicia sauls
I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding legal services provided by Andrea. Thanks to her expertise, professionalism, and dedication, my son's case was dismissed. From the very first consultation, Andrea demonstrated a deep understanding of the law and a genuine commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. She kept us informed throughout the entire process, answered all of our questions with patience, and worked tirelessly to ensure a favorable result. I truly appreciate how she handled everything with such care and skill, and I would highly recommend Andrea Kolski to anyone in need of legal representation. Thank you again for your incredible support!
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15 Oct, 2024 by Rick
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05 Sep, 2024 by Lars gravaas
Andrea Kolski is the number one lawyer in Montgomery County! There’s no reason you shouldn’t hire her, if you have a legal issue. She is anonymous always.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Prasad puligundla
I have never written a google review in my entire life, and this is my first review. I was brutally cheated by the Legal system and my Attorney (SB), and I believe he colluded with my ex-wife, Attorney (MM), and Children's Attorney (SW), appointed by the Court. I am devastated and helpless and can't believe this can happen in America. I applied for Divorce in October 2018 in a small town called Brenham in Texas. In June 2019, a temporary hearing occurred; my Attorney (SB), didn't ask questions related to how I raised my kids and didn't cross-verify many key items what my ex-wife said to the Court. Also, he didn't file a Request for Relief before the Temporary hearing, which my ex-wife's Attorney (MM) pointed out. The Court decided to give Child custody to my ex-wife and I was kicked out of my home. My ex-wife's Attorney (MM) filed a petition to appoint a Children's Attorney just a couple of weeks before the Jury trial was originally planned, and the Court immediately appointed SW. She met for the first time, and I shared some key OFW messages and shared details about how my ex-wife was not cooperating with co-parenting, doing parent alienation, and the kids' grades were going downhill. She asked me to send all the OFW photos, videos, and text messages, and I sent an email. After sending the email, She even refused to acknowledge the email and refused to meet 2nd time as she told me she would do. My kids always share what Atttorney says to them, and I asked my Attorney (SB), why Children Attorney (SW) did not ask which parent did what before the Divorce. After this, Children Attorney (SW) somehow came to know; she started telling my kids that their conversation was private and should not be shared with anyone. She took the stance that my ex-wife should get kids custody and never put together one single exhibit to support it other than using my ex-wife's Exhibits. I shared this with my Attorney (SB), and nothing changed. She even met with my kids at my ex-wife's place after the Jury decision and told my kids that conversation is private and can't be shared with anyone. After several postponements of the Jury trial, the Jury trial was held in August 2022. By God's grace and Robby Neal help and support, I could share most of my story with the Jury and how I raised my two little boys. After a seven-day trial, the Jury gave me kids custody, and Divorce was granted in favor of me. Finally, the divorce decree was signed in August 2023 with split custody, and the property was split unfairly and unjustly, and I ended up with no money in my bank account with thousands and thousands of loans (More than 100K). Even though Jury game me Right to designate Primary residence, the Court decided to give the home to my ex-wife and now some how law changed. After Temporary hearing, The Judge gave same Right to designate primary residence and then my Attorney (SB) told me that my ex-wife designated my house as Primary residence and I am kicked out. I called many Applette court attorneys and found out that I couldn't afford to fight for Justice. During the process, I had an appointment with Susan, and before she called me on October 4, 2023, she had reviewed my case on a high level. After asking me a few questions, she agreed to represent me, and the fees she quoted were 70% less than the lowest amount I heard so far. On October 5, 2023, I signed the contract. I have no words to describe how grateful I am to have Susan as my Attorney for the appeal. She is a Guardian angel sent by God during devastating moments in my life to help me and fight for Justice. Thank you to Susan and her team for helping me during this process. From bottom of heart, THANK YOU and THANK YOU Susan for helping me to fight for Justice and THANK YOU god for helping me to find incredible Susan.
Read more Google Maps
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12 Aug, 2024 by Thomas koovalloor
Here, I am introducing a law Firm named Clouthier Law, PLLC. I am 75 years old now, and I become a Victim of Elder Investment Fraud, and I was looking for a competent attorney to represent me and few other victims who were severely harmed in a case which we filed in 296th, Judicial District Court Collin County Texas . I contacted almost 100 reputed law Firms in Texas and other States, but I noticed that no law Firms were ready to represent the victims, especially Elderly Victims, because the Federal Lawmakers like FBI, FTC, SEC, DOJ, and their Prosecutors are the one who is handling the cases like Elder Investment fraud.As an Indian American I learned that language is the greatest barrier for me to talk to the American Attorneys. My First Language is MALAYALAM and English is my Second Language. Finally, I contacted attorney Susan Clouthier, who is residing in Texas, and I am in New York.Attorney Susan clearly understood my weakness, and very patiently listened my case, and offered me her service, and took the case. She reviewed the case, and came forward to represent us. In my opinion, this case is one of the "Notorious Case" in the history of Indian Americans, and I fully believe that Attorneys like Susan Clouthier will definitely win this case due to preponderance of Evidence in this case.In our case a Receiver was appointed to Investigate the case as per the request of the attorneys we hired. At the beginning the Receiver "Discovered" that there were "Multiple Badges of Fraud" committed by Former Directors of the company.Still the receiver made a settlement agreement with the Defendants and Closed the original case in the 296th, Court, and went to a different Court 471st Judicial District Court, Collin County, TX and filed a Case and misrepresented the court, and settled the case in favor of the defendants that severely " Harmed" elderly victims like me. So, we Opposed the receiver's decision with the help of Attorney Susan J. Clouthier, Esq., and filed an Appeal in the 5th COURT OF APPEALS, DALLAS, TEXAS.We, the severely harmed Elderly victims of Investment Fraud believe that we will get Justice from the HONORABLE JUDGE OF THE 5th COURT OF APPEALS, TX with the help of attorney Susan J. Clouthier and her team, because Attorney Susan and her team properly researched, investigated, and studied the case and prepared the Appellate Brief and filed it in the court. I fully believe that we, the elderly victims will win this case with the help of Attorney Susan Clouthier and her team.For Elderly Victims like us, Attorney Susan J. Clouthier and the Clouthier LAW, PLLC, is highly recommended. Thomas J. Koovalloor Member of Facebook, Twitter X, and LinkedIn.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Johnnie hargrave
Susan and her team have filed a brief in my Civil Appeal case. It is well written and I only hope it helps not just myself but others that may have been treated the same way by our Justice system. I have been very pleased in their ability in a situation that is pretty complicated. The degree of understanding and communication is rare when it should not be but finding someone that not only understands but fights for your rights is so appreciated. Johnnie Hargrave
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06 Dec, 2024 by Taylor kelly
I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Grimes and his wonderful staff for their exceptional support during a challenging time for my family. Having three little ones made our situation quite overwhelming, but Mr. Grimes truly made a difference. His thoughtfulness and dedication were evident in every interaction we had, which brought us much-needed relief. Mr. Grimes took the time to understand our unique needs, ensuring that we felt heard and supported throughout the process. His hard work did not go unnoticed, and it significantly eased our burdens. There simply isn’t another lawyer out there like him! His commitment to helping families like ours is truly commendable, and we are incredibly grateful for his assistance. Thank you once again, Mr. Grimes, for your unwavering dedication and hard work in resolving our situation so quickly. We are forever thankful!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Ismail nawaz
An UTTER disappointment. Be careful paying her in advance as she may/will not deliver. I had contacted Jess Bailey to review a time sensitive agreement. She charged me $1000 upfront for that to provide me her view and guidance. 4 days later, she was available for a very short time to literally read over the agreement and promised to send me her "response" the following business day. Her office told me she was busy that day, and then the following day. I had to hire another attorney to get my job done. She did not even feel remorse or had the courtesy to contact me - her office told me "It is our firm position that the entire scope of services for which the firm was contracted has been provided". A total rip off of my money and time. BE CAREFUL!
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13 May, 2024 by Robert bradshaw
Richard Grimes and his team are ABSOLUTELY PHENOMENAL. From start to finish with my case Richard and team worked and fought for me every step of the way. Superb communication and support from them on every aspect of my case. There wasn't anything I didn't know about with my case and everything was done in a timely manner. In my time of need Richard and team were my guiding star. I couldn't imagine doing this case with any other firm than Grimes and Ferrtitta! I, 100% stand behind the statement that they are one Best Law Firms and Richard Grimes as one of the Best Lawyers. Thank you Richard, Team, and Grimes and Fertitta! Highly Recommended!
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08 May, 2024 by Celeste vasquez
Professional, efficient, competent, and genuinely exhibited compassionate character as I explained my distressing matter.
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30 Nov, 2022 by S j
Attorney Bolton was very patient with me and helped me understand things going on in my situation with care and compassion. I highly recommend him!
Read more Google Maps
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22 Nov, 2022 by Karen x. garcia
Mr. Ramon Rivas was very professional and helped us every step of the way. Even before the interview, he made sure we had all the documents and all information we needed for the interview at the embassy. He was always a text or phone call away. I highly reccomend him!
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09 Jan, 2025 by Bimal sangari
I whole-heartedly recommend the law services of LaRochelle Luna. They professionally handled my case and did an excellent job of providing legal services to represent me. Throughout the experience, I felt I was in good hands and they responded to my communications in a timely manner.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2025 by Sandra vasquez
Attorney Luna was a pleasure to speak with. She was very understanding and provided an amazing consult. Her fees are reasonable and she is very knowledgeable. She is a great attorney and a beautiful person at heart. I definitely recommend using her and her firm for any of your real estate/probate/ business needs.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Kara cantrellm
Chris was the most courteous well knowledge to lawyer that I've talked to. With the Cowboy Law Group it definitely is a win-win situation! I recommend them to anyone.
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16 Oct, 2019 by Macon
I hired Amy for my custody dispute of my 3 children. I could not have picked a better lawyer to handle my case. She was very upfront and informative of how the process would be and left no questions or worries unanswered. Through the process all of my paperwork was filed very timely. She was always prompt on answering or returning my calls. She was there for me time and time again. My case took many twists and turns where she had to fight false allegations in multiple counties from my ex. She stood by my side and helped me through all of it. I would highly recommend her to anyone who wants an amazing lawyer to represent them. I have already recommended her to others going through similar situations. Not only would I choose her time and time again, I feel I gained a friend as well.
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20 Dec, 2012 by Rebecca
Amy served as my attorney for the original divorce as well as for additional modifications to the decree. My top ten list of what I most like about Amy: 1) Amy is highly knowledgeable about all aspects of family law. 2) She takes the high road and urges her clients to do the same for the best interests of the children. 3) Amy follows through and gets paperwork done in a timely manner. 4) She treats clients and everyone else involved in a respectful and non-condescending manner. 5) She realizes divorce is a death and respects the grief process that her clients and their children are going through. 6) She actually responds to phone calls and emails in a timely manner and never leaves you hanging. 7) She is tough in a classy way when the situation demands it (in the courtroom or out of it). 8) She does not over-bill clients for services. 9)Amy helps you set realistic expectations about negotiating with the other party. 10)I have referred friends as well as my own clients to Amy and she has given everyone great service.
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19 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Amy Montgomery represented me in my divorce, modification and adoption. Her professionalism was above and beyond anything I could have imagined. The divorce was very cut and dry so when I filed for a modification, I decided to hire another attorney in town. That was a mistake. I was not pleased with his performance and I went back to Amy. She took care of everything. My husband and I recently adopted a little girl and Amy handled everything beautifully. Not only is Amy a well educated and knowledgeable attorney, her compassion and honestly are amazing. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND Mrs. Montgomery for any type of family law matter that you may be going through.
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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:

  1. 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.).
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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