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22 Aug, 2024 by Germaine berger
The Mahone firm provides excellent service with an open line of communication. They provide all the information you need with speed and accuracy. Overall great experience!
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15 Jul, 2024 by Bart geraci
My husband and I had problems with the insurance people after our house caught fire. I would call them and no one answered. When I left a message, no one returned my call. I would finally get in touch with someone and they wouldn’t answer my questions or explain what was going on and got tired of this foolishness.
This is where we were lucky enough to get Mike Mahone involved. Mike was able to get in touch with the insurance and got questions answered. He even got a different person to help us.
Mike knew plenty of things that the insurance people were doing wrong. We didn’t know there was a time limit for the insurance to pay us on certain things.
We were very excited and pleased with all the work Mike put in for us. Mike always answered our calls or returned them swiftly.
We fully recommend Mike Mahone and would use him again.
Sincerely,
Lovie & Bart Geraci
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07 Jun, 2024 by Hunter smith
Absolutely would highly recommend to anyone. Great communication from Mike. Took a big risk on my case and had very good success. Very genuine person that cares about what is best for his clients.
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13 Feb, 2025 by Tonya harmason
I live in a town called Plaquemine LA. A very corrupt town. A town where every black man is guilty in the eyes of the judicial system. A system that is ran by certain families, and a whole lot of unfairness and corruption and injustice. My nephew was arrested on a murder charge here in Plaquemine. He told his mother that he wanted John Fuller & Associates to represent him on this charge. His, mother went and retained John Fuller as his attorney. Living in a town such as Plaquemine, and knowing how corrupted the system and town is. John Fuller came to Plaquemine and he represented my nephew. He let my nephew decide his faith. When I say my Family are forever grateful and Thankful to the Fuller Law Firm. It gave me great pleasure to hear, officials in Plaquemine saying Fuller is the best.
Thank you
John Fuller and Devin Jones
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09 Feb, 2025 by Marty gibson
Paige is fast, professional, and understanding. Couldn’t ask for a better experience!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Alberta jarreau
13 Feb, 2025 by Tonya harmason
I live in a town called Plaquemine LA. A very corrupt town. A town where every black man is guilty in the eyes of the judicial system. A system that is ran by certain families, and a whole lot of unfairness and corruption and injustice. My nephew was arrested on a murder charge here in Plaquemine. He told his mother that he wanted John Fuller & Associates to represent him on this charge. His, mother went and retained John Fuller as his attorney. Living in a town such as Plaquemine, and knowing how corrupted the system and town is. John Fuller came to Plaquemine and he represented my nephew. He let my nephew decide his faith. When I say my Family are forever grateful and Thankful to the Fuller Law Firm. It gave me great pleasure to hear, officials in Plaquemine saying Fuller is the best.
Thank you
John Fuller and Devin Jones
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09 Feb, 2025 by Marty gibson
Paige is fast, professional, and understanding. Couldn’t ask for a better experience!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Alberta jarreau
13 Feb, 2025 by Tonya harmason
I live in a town called Plaquemine LA. A very corrupt town. A town where every black man is guilty in the eyes of the judicial system. A system that is ran by certain families, and a whole lot of unfairness and corruption and injustice. My nephew was arrested on a murder charge here in Plaquemine. He told his mother that he wanted John Fuller & Associates to represent him on this charge. His, mother went and retained John Fuller as his attorney. Living in a town such as Plaquemine, and knowing how corrupted the system and town is. John Fuller came to Plaquemine and he represented my nephew. He let my nephew decide his faith. When I say my Family are forever grateful and Thankful to the Fuller Law Firm. It gave me great pleasure to hear, officials in Plaquemine saying Fuller is the best.
Thank you
John Fuller and Devin Jones
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09 Feb, 2025 by Marty gibson
Paige is fast, professional, and understanding. Couldn’t ask for a better experience!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Alberta jarreau
13 Feb, 2025 by Tonya harmason
I live in a town called Plaquemine LA. A very corrupt town. A town where every black man is guilty in the eyes of the judicial system. A system that is ran by certain families, and a whole lot of unfairness and corruption and injustice. My nephew was arrested on a murder charge here in Plaquemine. He told his mother that he wanted John Fuller & Associates to represent him on this charge. His, mother went and retained John Fuller as his attorney. Living in a town such as Plaquemine, and knowing how corrupted the system and town is. John Fuller came to Plaquemine and he represented my nephew. He let my nephew decide his faith. When I say my Family are forever grateful and Thankful to the Fuller Law Firm. It gave me great pleasure to hear, officials in Plaquemine saying Fuller is the best.
Thank you
John Fuller and Devin Jones
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09 Feb, 2025 by Marty gibson
Paige is fast, professional, and understanding. Couldn’t ask for a better experience!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Alberta jarreau
13 Feb, 2025 by Tonya harmason
I live in a town called Plaquemine LA. A very corrupt town. A town where every black man is guilty in the eyes of the judicial system. A system that is ran by certain families, and a whole lot of unfairness and corruption and injustice. My nephew was arrested on a murder charge here in Plaquemine. He told his mother that he wanted John Fuller & Associates to represent him on this charge. His, mother went and retained John Fuller as his attorney. Living in a town such as Plaquemine, and knowing how corrupted the system and town is. John Fuller came to Plaquemine and he represented my nephew. He let my nephew decide his faith. When I say my Family are forever grateful and Thankful to the Fuller Law Firm. It gave me great pleasure to hear, officials in Plaquemine saying Fuller is the best.
Thank you
John Fuller and Devin Jones
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09 Feb, 2025 by Marty gibson
Paige is fast, professional, and understanding. Couldn’t ask for a better experience!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Alberta jarreau
26 Sep, 2024 by Jehany badoy
An amazing firm to work with. Always made sure to make me feel like I was a priority. The staff is so friendly and professional. Made sure to always communicate with me and walk me through every step.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Justin lagrange
24 Sep, 2024 by Danita george
26 Sep, 2024 by Jehany badoy
An amazing firm to work with. Always made sure to make me feel like I was a priority. The staff is so friendly and professional. Made sure to always communicate with me and walk me through every step.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Justin lagrange
24 Sep, 2024 by Danita george
31 Jan, 2025 by Harold torrence
Mr. Hadley is an excellent lawyer and I highly recommend him.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Patsy
Oliver Hadley is a knowledgeable, caring, professional attorney, who is devoted to provide quality, professional legal services to his clients. He graduated from Tulane University Law School which is the top Law school in New Orleans.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Ernestine hadley
I would recommend Attorney Oliver Hadley to anyone in need of a lawyer. I have found him to be very professional and knowledgeable.
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18 Mar, 2020 by Shawn
This law firm has handled my bankruptcy case in a professional manner. All of the questions that I had in mind were answered in a pleasant way. From start to finish, his services along with his assign paralegal were impeccable.
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03 May, 2019 by Todd
This practice literally saved my life. I came to them overwhelmed with debt. Det Law Firm helped me navigate a course out of debt and put me on the road to success. I can not thank them enough!
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29 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Jon represented me in a criminal offense case. He was very professional and compassionate. His "people personality" made it very easy for me to open up to him so that he could represent me appropriately. I feel very fortunate to have met him in a business environment & that I got to know him as a person. I am very happy that someone recommended him and that we were able to cross paths.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Boris simpson
After hearing about the CLJA in 2023, I realized that I was one of those veterans stationed at Camp Lejeune doing the time period mentioned. I have suffered from several illnesses associated with the contamination. After searching out a law firm to handle my claim, I decided to go with Timothy Young Law Firm. The firm has been very helpful by keep me informed of what’s going on with my claim. I feel that they got my back by trying to get me the best result when the Navy decided to settled my claim. I would recommend Timothy Young Law Firm to anyone looking for great legal representation.
Boris Simpson
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17 Jan, 2025 by Lindsay brunet
The Young Firm is amazing. They make you feel heard and understood. They have been so helpful and supportive since the first call. Definitely 10/10!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Brandeon alexander
You guys are the best at what y'all do, and I would like to thank you all for everything you’ve done and continue to do..
Thank you Young firm!!
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27 Jul, 2023 by Yvain bryant
10 Nov, 2021 by Jerramu trench
Bobby is 1 of the most loyal humans I’ve ever met !!!!!!! Keeps his word and all the way involved in his cases ….. he’s always honest and has always over exceeded my expectations!!!!! Thanks Bobby for being my family’s #1 go to guy ❤️💯🙏🏿
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28 Oct, 2021 by Glen andrews
Bobby is more than your attorney he’s someone who puts personal interest in your life . He actually cares about you I know this personally as we have navigated some very rough seas together Bobby has never abandoned Ship ! He’s a fighter & will Fight for you . At the highest Recommendation I urge you Call Bobby Hortsburg
Red Beans & Ricky Yours
Glen David Andrews a 15 year client of Mr. Hortsburg
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12 Apr, 2022 by Gray timmons
15 Feb, 2022 by Paul coughlin
21 Aug, 2020 by Amy
12 Apr, 2022 by Gray timmons
15 Feb, 2022 by Paul coughlin
21 Aug, 2020 by Amy
13 Aug, 2021 by Lola smith
26 Jul, 2021 by Giselle mundt
13 May, 2024 by David caballero
I have run a national company for over 25 years and have dealt with dozens of trial attorneys. Bob is the most knowledgeable and thorough attorney that I have ever dealt with. I would only recommend him when in need of an attorney in New Orleans.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Manuel gage
They called me before Xmas and said I needed to sign for a check I did was told I'll should have the money in a week. A month later they see my number (twice) they don't answer I wait five minutes and call from another number and pick up on first ring. Shady lawyers are the worst and he's one of them.
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06 Dec, 2024 by D h
Most professional firm anyone could ask for. Attorney Jenny Greene helped me get through my legal matter with care, dedication and reliability. Highly recommend.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Dax miller
I have had the pleasure of working with Jenny Greene. I have worked with and personally know many lawyers across many different fields. I have yet to meet anyone who compares to Jenny. She is incredible kind, capable, and motivated to make sure whatever issues you are dealing with are handled down to the last detail. She listens to your concerns and wishes, and makes sure to not only give you realistic expectations, but has gone above and beyond in every situation for my family and I. If anyone I know needs legal advice, she is the sole lawyer that I recommend. There is not a more honest and caring lawyer in America. I was blessed to have Jenny on my side and the outcome far exceed my expectations of what was possible. Do not miss out on an opportunity to work with Jenny, you will definitely regret it!
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16 Jan, 2025 by Manuel gage
They called me before Xmas and said I needed to sign for a check I did was told I'll should have the money in a week. A month later they see my number (twice) they don't answer I wait five minutes and call from another number and pick up on first ring. Shady lawyers are the worst and he's one of them.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Zach paul
Good Firm.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Kykade matthews
I have known Mr.Brent for years & he’s been a good lawyer for many many people…I strongly recommend him
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12 Apr, 2022 by Gray timmons
15 Feb, 2022 by Paul coughlin
21 Aug, 2020 by Amy
29 Dec, 2019 by Colby taperts
21 Nov, 2018 by Sandi guillory
05 Sep, 2018 by Rob
13 May, 2024 by David caballero
I have run a national company for over 25 years and have dealt with dozens of trial attorneys. Bob is the most knowledgeable and thorough attorney that I have ever dealt with. I would only recommend him when in need of an attorney in New Orleans.
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10 Feb, 2025 by Nicole eubanks
Alex did an incredible job handling my claim. Very impressed by his professionalism, compassion, diligence and hard work.
Truly felt at peace entrusting my case to him as he was so knowledgeable and determined. He fought for me every step of the way and I'm very pleased with the results, and in such a timely manner too!
He and his paralegal, Ashley, kept me up to date with frequent phone calls, text messages and emails. Both of them took the time to listen to my questions and concerns, explain all the legalities and provide reassurance.
I 100% recommend Alex and his firm. Very greatful.
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13 Jan, 2025 by Andrea triplett
I couldn’t be more grateful for these guys! They worked hard to get my family the closure and help we needed! Brian,Alex, Jacques, and especially Ashley are completely family now! I deeply care for them all.It has been a long road but they have out performed all of our expectations.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Kykade matthews
I have known Mr.Brent for years & he’s been a good lawyer for many many people…I strongly recommend him
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3.0
2 Reviews
5.0
4 Reviews
09 Jun, 2024 by Michael martin
2:291
Michael Martin
Local Guide • 64 reviews
Just now
I would rate him 10 stars if we could .
Richard Barker's performance in my trial, and efforts to prepare my case for trial, and the result resulting verdict (over 50 X the current medical bills) after receiving no offer, until a totally unacceptable offer after trial had begun for the life-altering damage to my spinal degeneration and pain the Government truck caused. A comment on the unfairness of the damage cap our State Legislature has made law, to further harm law abiding citizens, may not hurt, either. The cap makes it impossible to get the evidence and testimony to fully inform your jury of the real totality of your injury, because the cost cannot be recovered, and the Government has unlimited resources to fight you with. It is fighting uphill all the way, against a Government that makes all the rules to protect itself, with absolutely NO regard for the lone citizen Battling for his Future against the unlimited Power of Government. How can the government send money all over the world but not want to compensate people that got hurt by their negligence? If you want someone to fight for you Richard is your man !
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27 Jun, 2023 by Dax strattman
Richard Barker handles business! He’s competent, communicative, patient and effective. And unlike other attorneys, he actually takes and returns calls. This of probably the most important thing to a client, that their attorney makes time to communicate with them. I highly recommend Mr. Barker to anyone needing effective legal representation in any type of matter.
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29 May, 2019 by Donna
El señor González y su oficina, debían ayudarnos con un caso de reunificacion, más de $ 500 pagados, dinero entregado supuestamente para un proceso inicial que nunca progresó, nos cansamos de llamar para recibir nuevas noticias y nunca nos atendían. Hasta que desestimó. Una falta de respeto completa y total, shame of you.
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27 Feb, 2025 by Chuck ferguson
I have used Elizabeth several times to help me with a few legal issues. She successfully negotiated several contracts with my bisiness. She represented me on a minor domestic matter. She also helped me with some traffic problems. I appreciate that I can always call her for advice or a question. If she cant talk to me right away then scheduling a time to talk is always easy. I respect her dedication and hard work. She is not shy when it comes to fighting hard for a client. If you want a lawyer who will communicate with you and explain everything in clear terms, then I recommend you call her law firm.
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26 Feb, 2025 by Chevy thompson
Working with Elizabeth Carpenter and her law firm has truly saved my life, which in the past was entirely unmanageable. In 2020 while I was in active addiction I made the grave mistake of falling into the wrong crowd of people that unfortunately involved me in a high profile case in Jefferson Parish. By some miracle she and her law firm were able to help me retain most of my freedoms and continued to fight for me through the process of probation and ensuring that I got the help I needed to achieve a sober life. She still continues today to help me in the fight to rebuild my life one step at a time. Today I am a free man thanks to Elizabeth!
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25 Feb, 2025 by Debbie tye
This is long and i apologize, but this needs to be seen.
I received a ordinance violation ticket last year and hired Elizabeth after an issue with our previous attorney. She said she would do some research and let us know our options. She never contacted us back, so unless we called her there was no communication. Everytime we asked what was going on, she had nothing. WE did the research, WE did all the footwork. When my trial came she was still not prepared. The DA questioned the officer involved and he had no clue who I was and then assumed I was actually someone else. When Elizabeth went to question him she did not ask any questions regarding what the officer said and bumbled through the entire questioning. Ultimately I was found guilty for a charge that I never did.
My husband in his frustration through this
( his review is here as well anthony beck) contacted her several times regarding the fact she never did any research, or contacted us, she would get short and overly defensive with him. He did tell her flat out that during this time she did nothing which is the truth.
In court she told me he was a "scary, horrible abusive man" and she "feels sorry for me".
She responded to his review with half truths and messaged me demanding he remove his review, again saying that she feels sorry for me living with "such a horrible abusive man" which he is definitely not.
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02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
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04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
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02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
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04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
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02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
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04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
Read more
27 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Terrible attourney! I am having so many things come back to bite me. She did not handle my bankruptcy case properly! It was incomplete and i am now having a hard time! She does not return calls( as ik attourneys are busy) but SS is thee worst. I can’t even right the wrongs she messed up in my case. I do not recommended her!
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06 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Sharry has worked on two cases for me and has been diligent and thorough in finding justice in both cases. Highly recommend!
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02 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
On behalf of my wife who lost by hiring this unprofessional feminisit of a lawyer, I felt so bad for the wife even though she apposed me. Do yourself a favor and do not get this women to work on family law matters or criminal! She costed my wife dearly, in which I'm happy for. She gave horrible advice to her and many other women in jefferson parish, So if you want to get wrecked hire Mrs. Sharry Sandler.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Bankruptcy Lawyer Can Do for You
A bankruptcy lawyer specializes in helping individuals and businesses manage overwhelming debt by filing for bankruptcy or exploring alternatives to bankruptcy. They guide clients through the complex legal process of discharging or restructuring debts, represent them in court, and work to protect assets such as homes and cars. Bankruptcy lawyers can also help stop creditor harassment, wage garnishment, and foreclosures through bankruptcy protections.
If you're facing financial hardship, a bankruptcy lawyer can help you decide whether filing for bankruptcy is the right option and assist you through the legal process.
When Should I Hire a Bankruptcy Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a bankruptcy lawyer in the following situations:
- Unmanageable debt: If you're unable to pay your bills and debts are piling up, a lawyer can help you explore options such as Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
- Foreclosure or repossession: If your home is at risk of foreclosure or your vehicle is in danger of being repossessed, a bankruptcy lawyer can help you use bankruptcy protections to prevent this and potentially reorganize your debts.
- Wage garnishment: If your wages are being garnished, filing for bankruptcy can stop garnishments and allow you to regain control of your finances.
- Creditor harassment: If creditors are constantly calling or sending collection notices, a bankruptcy lawyer can stop these actions by filing for bankruptcy, which enacts an automatic stay that halts collection activities.
- Small business debt: If your business is struggling with debt and cannot meet financial obligations, a lawyer can help you file for Chapter 11 (reorganization) or Chapter 7 (liquidation) bankruptcy.
- Medical debt or credit card debt: If you have large amounts of unsecured debt like medical bills or credit card balances, a bankruptcy lawyer can help you seek relief through Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Hiring a bankruptcy lawyer early in the process can prevent further financial damage and help you choose the best legal option for debt relief.
What Does a Bankruptcy Lawyer Do?
A bankruptcy lawyer provides a range of services to help individuals and businesses handle their debts. Their responsibilities often include:
- Evaluating your financial situation: Assessing your income, assets, debts, and expenses to determine if bankruptcy is the right option and which type of bankruptcy (Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or Chapter 11) best suits your situation.
- Filing bankruptcy petitions: Preparing and filing the necessary documents to initiate your bankruptcy case, ensuring that all legal requirements are met.
- Stopping creditor harassment: Once the bankruptcy case is filed, an automatic stay is enacted, which stops creditors from pursuing collection efforts. A lawyer ensures this protection is applied immediately.
- Representing you in court: Representing you in court proceedings, including meetings with creditors and any hearings related to your case.
- Negotiating with creditors: In Chapter 13 or Chapter 11 bankruptcies, negotiating a repayment plan that restructures your debts and allows you to manage payments more effectively.
- Advising on asset protection: Guiding you on how to protect certain assets, such as your home or retirement savings, through available bankruptcy exemptions.
- Explaining the impact on your credit: Informing you about how bankruptcy will affect your credit and advising on steps to rebuild your credit post-bankruptcy.
How Are Bankruptcy Lawyers Paid?
Bankruptcy lawyers typically charge for their services in different ways depending on the complexity of the case and the type of bankruptcy being filed. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many bankruptcy lawyers charge a flat fee for handling Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases. This fee usually covers the entire process, from preparing and filing paperwork to representing you in court.
- Hourly rate: For more complex cases, such as Chapter 11 bankruptcy (often used by businesses), some lawyers charge an hourly rate. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more.
- Retainer: In cases where ongoing legal services are required, such as in Chapter 11 bankruptcies or complex Chapter 13 cases, a lawyer may request a retainer, which is an upfront payment billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, as bankruptcy law requires lawyers to disclose all fees and ensure they are reasonable and fair.
How Much Does a Bankruptcy Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a bankruptcy lawyer varies depending on the type of bankruptcy and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:
- Chapter 7 bankruptcy: For individuals, legal fees usually range from $1,000 to $3,500. This flat fee generally covers the entire process.
- Chapter 13 bankruptcy: For individuals filing Chapter 13, legal fees typically range from $2,500 to $6,000. This cost is higher because of the additional work required to create and manage the repayment plan.
- Chapter 11 bankruptcy (for businesses): Chapter 11 bankruptcy is more complex and usually more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the size of the business and the complexity of the debt restructuring.
- Filing fees: In addition to legal fees, there are also court filing fees, which are $338 for Chapter 7 and $313 for Chapter 13 as of 2024.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to understand what services are included and whether payment plans are available.
Top Questions to Ask a Bankruptcy Lawyer
Before hiring a bankruptcy lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with bankruptcy cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or Chapter 11 bankruptcy. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or hourly rate, and ask for a detailed breakdown of costs, including filing fees and additional expenses. -
Which type of bankruptcy is best for me?
Ask the lawyer to explain whether Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or Chapter 11 is the best option based on your financial situation and long-term goals. -
What debts can be discharged?
Ask which of your debts will be forgiven through bankruptcy and which debts (such as certain taxes or student loans) may not be dischargeable. -
How long will the process take?
Bankruptcy cases can take time to resolve, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last, from filing to discharge. -
Will I be able to keep my assets?
Ask if you will be able to keep important assets, such as your home or car, and what exemptions might apply. -
What happens after bankruptcy?
Ask about the impact of bankruptcy on your credit score and what steps you can take to rebuild your credit after the bankruptcy is finalized.
How to Check the Credibility of a Bankruptcy Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable bankruptcy lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for bankruptcy experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in bankruptcy law and have successfully handled cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and ability to handle bankruptcy cases.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on bankruptcy matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for lawyers who are members of organizations such as the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA) or who have specialized bankruptcy law certifications.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a bankruptcy lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- List of debts: Prepare a detailed list of all your debts, including credit cards, personal loans, medical bills, and any secured debts such as mortgages or car loans.
- Income and expense records: Bring documents that show your current income, such as pay stubs or tax returns, and a list of your monthly expenses, including rent, utilities, and other essential costs.
- Asset information: Provide information on any assets you own, such as your home, car, investments, or other valuable property.
- Credit reports: If possible, bring copies of your credit reports to give the lawyer a clear view of your financial situation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions you have about the bankruptcy process, the lawyer’s fees, and what to expect after filing for bankruptcy.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your needs.
