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23 Aug, 2024 by R. delgado
Writing this on behalf of my husband. In summary, we do not recommend as very bad communication (or the lack of it actually) and professionalism were experienced setting a very bad first impression, and this was just in trying to get through the first consultation. Zero respect for people’s time. Definitely didn’t feel we could even trust this place with our case when we couldn’t even receive the scheduled consultation appropriately.
Background: My husband contacted Stern Law earlier this week and was scheduled for his first consultation with attorney on the phone for Thursday, 8/21/24, which he was advised would be 20-30 minutes and was free as described in their website as this is his first call. We reside in California and rearranged work and responsibilities to be ready for scheduled time. After 6-7 minutes of not receiving scheduled call, my husband called and was greeted by a very apologetic gentleman stating attorney had an emergency and did not go to office for the day and he was eventually planning to call my husband to reschedule time with attorney for following day (yet, it’s at least 10 minutes past scheduled time at this point with zero communication, close to end of business day East coast time, and only finding out because my husband called in saying I’m sitting here waiting on my consultation call). My husband decided to give them a chance, rescheduled for today 8/22/24 as offered and was told to go ahead and email his background check file in for attorney to review before call. So here we are again, re-adjusting work and responsibilities to finally receive the call on time this morning, 8/22/24. To our surprise the lady calling in states, “I am calling you to schedule your appointment.” We were livid now. So apparently sounds like my husband called to schedule a consultation, was scheduled for a consultation, received a no show from attorney, was rescheduled for a consultation and finally receives a call to be told “This was just an appointment to schedule your appointment.” How can anyone possibly trust a place like this?!
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16 Jul, 2024 by Duyan beyan
TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE WITH LAWYER ELIZABETH. Do not give her your money. She gives nothing but false hopes and promises when she knows the law is not on your side. She said her client could get a voluntary removal when the client was an arriving alien and it’s COMMON KNOWLEDGE that those charged as arriving aliens do not qualify for voluntary removal. We wasted so much time and money with her just for the client to sit 8 months and still get deported. Also Elizabeth showed up more than once unprepared. She had not reviewed documents or anything, further wasting time. She also did not communicate well. She was injured during the case and did not communicate that but instead sent someone else to the hearing who was unprepared. I am so disgusted with the experience I had with Elizabeth and stern law
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16 Jun, 2024 by Anacaren bermudez
A great team of knowledgeable people! They are very responsive and respectful about one’s needs. If you need a lawyer don’t hesitate to contact them!
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11 Apr, 2024 by A1 travels club
07 Apr, 2024 by Paulette w cain-israel
Worked on Mock Trial recently for this firm
Everyone was so friendly and so professional it was a wonderful day
This building is so beautiful the highest in Atlanta with 55 floors
Can’t wait to do it again !
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09 Feb, 2024 by Jennifer wilson
21 Sep, 2024 by Kendrila jones-adams
Helping, kind, friendly. Make sure you feel like family.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Yesenia puga
21 Sep, 2024 by Treveon r
23 Aug, 2024 by Rosalia bernabé
23 Aug, 2024 by Jay money
Michelle had my case very nice caring willing to listen to u when u ask questions patient just the best thank u so much
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23 Aug, 2024 by Nancy smith
This my 3 rd time it sucks never again my case is going on a year it’s normally would have been handled but I have had 4 different people on the case idk what they have going on but now it’s unstable very unstable and I also let them refer me to a workers comp lawyer don’t ever do that just try someone new there not the same
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23 Aug, 2024 by Rosalia bernabé
23 Aug, 2024 by Jay money
Michelle had my case very nice caring willing to listen to u when u ask questions patient just the best thank u so much
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23 Aug, 2024 by Nancy smith
This my 3 rd time it sucks never again my case is going on a year it’s normally would have been handled but I have had 4 different people on the case idk what they have going on but now it’s unstable very unstable and I also let them refer me to a workers comp lawyer don’t ever do that just try someone new there not the same
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23 Aug, 2024 by Rosalia bernabé
23 Aug, 2024 by Jay money
Michelle had my case very nice caring willing to listen to u when u ask questions patient just the best thank u so much
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23 Aug, 2024 by Nancy smith
This my 3 rd time it sucks never again my case is going on a year it’s normally would have been handled but I have had 4 different people on the case idk what they have going on but now it’s unstable very unstable and I also let them refer me to a workers comp lawyer don’t ever do that just try someone new there not the same
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24 Aug, 2024 by Jara neal
I am writing to express my profound gratitude and satisfaction with the exemplary legal representation I received from Banks Weaver Law Firm and their team following my recent accident. From the moment I first reached out to their office, I was met with professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for my case.
Navigating the aftermath of an accident can be an incredibly overwhelming experience. The physical, emotional, and financial toll it takes on a person is often exacerbated by the complexities of dealing with insurance companies and legal proceedings. However, from our initial consultation, Sam Weaver demonstrated not only an impressive depth of legal knowledge but also a genuine understanding of the challenges I was facing. They took the time to listen to my concerns, answer my questions, and outline a strategic plan tailored specifically to my needs.
Throughout the entire process, Banks Weaver and their team exhibited an extraordinary level of dedication and responsiveness. I was kept informed at every stage of my case, with regular updates on developments and clear explanations of legal terms and procedures. This transparency helped alleviate much of the anxiety I felt during this tumultuous time. Additionally, the team was always available to address any concerns I had, often responding to emails and calls promptly, which reassured me that my case was in capable hands.
One of the standout aspects was their tenacity in negotiating with the insurance companies. They were relentless in advocating for my rights and ensuring I received fair compensation for my injuries and losses. Their extensive experience in personal injury law was evident as they skillfully navigated the complexities of the case, leveraging their expertise to counter the tactics typically employed by insurance adjusters.
Ultimately, Banks Weaver Law Firm successfully secured a settlement that exceeded my expectations, allowing me to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. This outcome not only provided financial relief but also gave me a sense of closure and justice that I desperately sought after the accident.
I wholeheartedly recommend this law firm to anyone in need of legal assistance following an accident. Their combination of professionalism, expertise, and compassion set them apart in the field. I am immensely grateful for their efforts and the positive outcome they achieved on my behalf. If you are looking for a lawyer who will fight tirelessly for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, look no further than Banks Weaver Law Firm Thank you once again for everything!
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21 Aug, 2024 by T. nichole foster
14 Aug, 2024 by Jarees moore
Horrible customer service. Representative that answered the phone was very unprofessional. Very disrespectful.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Khusbu patel
02 Nov, 2023 by Ashley brown
19 Apr, 2023 by Manuel martinez
Miss Melissa Is the best closing attorney in Georgia! She is reliable, professional and extremely trustworthy, along with all her staff at the Fayetteville office.
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15 May, 2024 by Ivan smith
Their clients ( General wholesale) Driver was found at fault for Causing a Major accident on May,19,2022 ,they will not settle the case, and are causing me Grave Hard ship,,. This is a Act of bad faith. I am making a complaint to the GA Bar.
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19 Apr, 2024 by A. wells
Excellent
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12 Mar, 2024 by Jamie robards
26 Feb, 2024 by Chudney richmond
Attorney McKinnon represented me and my company in a real estate matter. Attorney McKinnon was thorough and knowledgeable in the negotiations and kept me updated throughout this matter. More importantly we won and I highly recommend her services!
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26 Feb, 2024 by Michal allen
Attorney McKinnon handled a matter for me and my BF of 2 years. She got his statement and represented him in the COA courts. Thoroughly satisfied with the attention and service received. I do not trust ANYONE but Attorney McKinnon to handle any of my cases.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Bandman kevo (bandman kevo)
My experience this this company was absolute horrible, I paid $7500 dollars and was told one thing then another , it was very hard to get in contact with ms McKinnon .. she was always busy with another client like I didn't pay my hard earned money she also got mad about me emailing her during certain hours and days if she wasn't at work
It was a very unprofessional experience for me and I wouldn't want anyone to ever have to deal with such a lawfirm like this .. I heard sorry from this company more then I heard in my entire life ..
I am very unsatisfied and very frustrated with the work they do at this company, people like this have to be stopped from getting over on there clients
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26 Feb, 2024 by Chudney richmond
Attorney McKinnon represented me and my company in a real estate matter. Attorney McKinnon was thorough and knowledgeable in the negotiations and kept me updated throughout this matter. More importantly we won and I highly recommend her services!
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26 Feb, 2024 by Michal allen
Attorney McKinnon handled a matter for me and my BF of 2 years. She got his statement and represented him in the COA courts. Thoroughly satisfied with the attention and service received. I do not trust ANYONE but Attorney McKinnon to handle any of my cases.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Bandman kevo (bandman kevo)
My experience this this company was absolute horrible, I paid $7500 dollars and was told one thing then another , it was very hard to get in contact with ms McKinnon .. she was always busy with another client like I didn't pay my hard earned money she also got mad about me emailing her during certain hours and days if she wasn't at work
It was a very unprofessional experience for me and I wouldn't want anyone to ever have to deal with such a lawfirm like this .. I heard sorry from this company more then I heard in my entire life ..
I am very unsatisfied and very frustrated with the work they do at this company, people like this have to be stopped from getting over on there clients
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24 May, 2023 by Anonymous
They are thieves.!!!! They are scammers.!!!
Don't go here. you will be very disappointed.
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25 Sep, 2017 by Love locs
If super hero's were real he would be Super Man. My friend needed an attorney and I called his office and he went to work immediately. There was a lot at stake(felony), he understood that and delivered. I am so grateful, thank you.
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21 Feb, 2017 by Nine counts of felony murder
Wow, what an amazing MAN!!! Mr. Brant gave us HOPE when we had nothing but despair. From the very 1st day we met him, we never lost hope, we found strength from him in a case that was hopeless, he never gave up on my grandson, and he never ceased fighting for us. After my grandson sat in jail for 2-1/2 years we finally went to court, and to say the Justice system had stacked a "tall case" against my grandson with 9 counts of felony murder, along with 7 other felony charges "seemed" to be a case that was impossible to win. But, with Mr. Brant's continuous encouragement, personal phone calls, his enormous degree of COMPASSION for human beings, his experience with the court systems and his ability to demonstrate to the jurors that he had "done his work" by spending countless hours of research to unfold mounds of useless investigative work by the local police precinct - the very people who we pay to protect us, can and will literally destroy our lives. He showed a remarkable degree of knowledge and willingness to serve my grandson with outstanding dignity. In the final moments of my grandson's trial, when the verdict was read, and sweat was popping from the brows of my entire family - as one count after another was read - "all 9 Counts of Felony Murder/NOT GUILTY. My grandson was found Not Guilty on 13 out of 16 felony charges - "SWEET VICTORY", we won. As I sit here on Mr. Brant's page, a week later, "I still cannot believe it" - I am still decompressing from 2-1/2 years of sheer agony. I will never forget this MAN, he will always be my Little Brother, he has found his way into my family because of his love and compassion for humans. Keep fighting for Justice Mr. Brant, we love you and we will never forget you.
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17 Jul, 2021 by Wayne arnold
My brother hired Rodney Zell. We think Rodney did such a wonderf and outstanding job on my brother's appeal which as not been ruled on yet. I know Rodney will win my brother case and he very good.
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13 Oct, 2017 by Barbara rainey
I hired Mr. Zell to represent my son who was wrongfully convicted in Cherokee County. All the previous lawyers just took my money. My son was in prison so I called Mr. Zell when I had questions. I know he is busy but he always explained things to me. He won my sons appeal and the case was thrown out. I recommend Mr. Zell to everyone I can.
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29 Oct, 2016 by Glenn g.
Rodney Zell is very good lawyer. As was his father who was listed in who's who of american attorneys. Rodney tells you the truth. No BS. He learned from his father to do the best he can for his client not for the money but because Justice calls for it.
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16 Aug, 2019 by Shelly byerd
13 Apr, 2023 by Andrea moreland
08 Apr, 2023 by Lee li
The male receptionist at the firm was very professional. Answering all of my questions and had a very pleasant disposition.
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27 Mar, 2023 by Robert sumners
13 Apr, 2023 by Andrea moreland
08 Apr, 2023 by Lee li
The male receptionist at the firm was very professional. Answering all of my questions and had a very pleasant disposition.
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27 Mar, 2023 by Robert sumners
13 Apr, 2023 by Andrea moreland
08 Apr, 2023 by Lee li
The male receptionist at the firm was very professional. Answering all of my questions and had a very pleasant disposition.
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27 Mar, 2023 by Robert sumners
10 Sep, 2024 by Gwenkeia simmons
I highly recommend this firm for their exceptional legal services and commitment to client care. Meg and Lesley demonstrated a genuine concern for my son's well-being and kept us informed throughout the process. We were extremely satisfied with the exceptional legal services provided by this law firm.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Kahlil mims
I highly recommend this firm for their exceptional legal services and commitment to client care. Meg, and staff demonstrated professionalism and empathy throughout our experience. We were kept informed and addressed any queries in a timely manner via text message.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Bradley dick
They have a revolving door of associates and they try to get you to mediate with one of their friends that will talk you into settling and giving away everything. They didn't really care about my case and immediately filed a lien for charges they never even billed for. Avoid this firm as they care more about money than your case.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Gwenkeia simmons
I highly recommend this firm for their exceptional legal services and commitment to client care. Meg and Lesley demonstrated a genuine concern for my son's well-being and kept us informed throughout the process. We were extremely satisfied with the exceptional legal services provided by this law firm.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Kahlil mims
I highly recommend this firm for their exceptional legal services and commitment to client care. Meg, and staff demonstrated professionalism and empathy throughout our experience. We were kept informed and addressed any queries in a timely manner via text message.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Bradley dick
They have a revolving door of associates and they try to get you to mediate with one of their friends that will talk you into settling and giving away everything. They didn't really care about my case and immediately filed a lien for charges they never even billed for. Avoid this firm as they care more about money than your case.
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20 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
We hired Jennifer to represent one of our family members to appeal a conviction. Initially, Jennifer was very informative and helpful. She has a very nice and trusting demeanor. After viewing the case file, she informed the family about the mistakes that were made during the trial including violations of his civil rights and ineffective assistance of counsel, and gave us her recommendations on how we would proceed. Then we lost contact with her for about a month or so and had to literally search for her and her partner. We were desperate. After finding her partner, she informed us that they had severed their ties with one another, and gave us Jennifer's home address and telephone number.
To make a long story short, upon contacting Jennifer, we were able to pick up where we left off. Things were going great. She filed all of the paperwork and sent us copies. She kept us informed. As time went on, her contact with us became less and less. It was next to impossible to get her on the phone. I left numerous messages with her staff, I left voicemail messages and even paid a couple of visits to the office to no avail. She was paid to file paperwork that we found out was not filed. When she did file the brief for the appeal, she failed to notify us of the outcome. We got the results of the appeal by personally calling the court and inquiring. The court informed us that the decision had been made three months prior and that our attorney had been informed.. She completely failed to notify us. She stopped returning our phone calls and stopped replying to our text messages. We were so disappointed and we felt let down because we are a family with limited means and we trusted her..... We later went to pick up the briefs from her office. After informing us that she was now newly married, she said that we should tell our incarcerated family member to file for "ineffective assistance of counsel."..... She offered no apologies or explanations...
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22 Oct, 2014 by Larry v.
I hired Jennifer to handle my recent divorce. She came highly referred by a friend of mine who hired her to help his son. I was trying to go through the divorce process without hiring an attorney but my ex-wife hired a pit bull who was really trying to rake me over the coals. While I didnt want to spend the money I was told by people that this would really determine the rest of my life-- and definitely define my relationship with my children. I finally got up the money to retain and it seemed to be going a little slow at first and sometimes I had a hard time reaching her which was frustrating. I almost quit the whole process and stuck my head in the sand. Then we went to court for the temporary custody and alimony hearing and I saw her in action. All I can say is WOW. Did I underestimate her. And not to be sexist but I was also concerned about her being a kinda young female. But she completely exceeded my expectations and then some. I got joint legal and physical custody of my kids (one week on, one week off) and no child support obligation as long as we divide expenses. And NO ALIMONY!! I couldnt have asked for more! I didnt even know what rights I could get going in and she got me more than I even knew to ask for. Very thankful I spent the $$ and hung in there during the times it seemed to be going slow or was hard to reach. I highly recommend her to all folks looking to set a good foundation for the rest of their lives with their ex and raising their kids.
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30 Apr, 2013 by Joanne
She and her Partner apparently disolved their relationship. Never informed me, would not return phone calls, never learned what actually happened to the case. her former Partner was also distracted and of no help. Courtesy was all I needed. This behavior just added more stress.
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19 Nov, 2019 by Eric jenkins
16 May, 2018 by Chris tolbert
23 Feb, 2020 by Mister lovley
Still waiting to be responded back to by an Attorney. Ashley P.
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22 Feb, 2016 by Jafee inga
Correct hire for da position of investors
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19 Nov, 2019 by Eric jenkins
16 May, 2018 by Chris tolbert
19 Nov, 2019 by Eric jenkins
16 May, 2018 by Chris tolbert
19 Nov, 2019 by Eric jenkins
16 May, 2018 by Chris tolbert
11 Sep, 2024 by Shaakirah landers
07 Jan, 2023 by Marcia sylvester
No reason to fear this place they drag out chump change cases and have newbies and interns do all the work. Big companies spend more money in litigation than they would have if they settled. Stay away!!!
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08 Dec, 2022 by Delisa shatteen
Definitely would not recommend for hire… they purposely dragged out our case. The Plaintiff was more than willing to settle for way less than they was in the beginning but the attorney never said a word. No calls, communication and very unprofessional. Wish we saw these reviews beforehand.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Shaakirah landers
07 Jan, 2023 by Marcia sylvester
No reason to fear this place they drag out chump change cases and have newbies and interns do all the work. Big companies spend more money in litigation than they would have if they settled. Stay away!!!
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08 Dec, 2022 by Delisa shatteen
Definitely would not recommend for hire… they purposely dragged out our case. The Plaintiff was more than willing to settle for way less than they was in the beginning but the attorney never said a word. No calls, communication and very unprofessional. Wish we saw these reviews beforehand.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Shaakirah landers
07 Jan, 2023 by Marcia sylvester
No reason to fear this place they drag out chump change cases and have newbies and interns do all the work. Big companies spend more money in litigation than they would have if they settled. Stay away!!!
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08 Dec, 2022 by Delisa shatteen
Definitely would not recommend for hire… they purposely dragged out our case. The Plaintiff was more than willing to settle for way less than they was in the beginning but the attorney never said a word. No calls, communication and very unprofessional. Wish we saw these reviews beforehand.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Shaakirah landers
07 Jan, 2023 by Marcia sylvester
No reason to fear this place they drag out chump change cases and have newbies and interns do all the work. Big companies spend more money in litigation than they would have if they settled. Stay away!!!
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08 Dec, 2022 by Delisa shatteen
Definitely would not recommend for hire… they purposely dragged out our case. The Plaintiff was more than willing to settle for way less than they was in the beginning but the attorney never said a word. No calls, communication and very unprofessional. Wish we saw these reviews beforehand.
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02 Aug, 2019 by Erin
My son (2 at the time of the accident) and I were hit by a car while walking across a cross walk, my son landed on the hood and rolled off onto the pavement if the car didn’t stop she would’ve killed him, so I hired this guy. This accident was in May of 2017. I have been trying to reach him to figure out what we needed to do seeing as there were no serious injuries and just wanted to settle didn’t think it’d be that hard. A year passes, I had to try contacting him for MONTHS before he decided to call me back, he told me to trust him he knows how to do his job. Obviously not, last November I started trying to get a hold of him and I tried starting once a week call leave VM wait after 4 months of nothing it moved to multiple times a week, hell by May I was calling everyday. Here we are still haven’t heard anything. But at this point it’s too late. Thanks for nothing.
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15 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Paid for a divorce two and a half years ago, have been getting the runaround ever since. Asked for a refund with no response. After speaking with another attorney I have found that no papers have ever been filed. So to sum it up he stole my money.
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06 Jan, 2017 by James
James Key helped me with a clerical error that I had in Georgia's Superior Court that was keeping me from being able to live my life to the fullest. I had been working on this issue for almost 3 years and had spoken with countless people at the courthouse to no end. Before meeting Mr Key I spoke with other attorneys that seemed to have no real idea of how to fix my issue as it was not a very common one to have. The very first time I spoke with James Key he knew exactly what needed to be done, who to contact, and had answers I had been searching for what seemed like a lifetime for. Not only would i highly recommend him to anyone and everyone he is now my go to guy for any future issues in the city of Atlanta or really anywhere in the state of Georgia. I not only feel I got my monies worth I feel like he went above and beyond what I had expected him to do especially during the holiday season. In my opinion James Key is an excellent lawyer, a gentalman, is very fair on prices, and does excatly what he says he will do. If you have any legal issues in Georgia James Key is definitely worth talking to. Of course everyone's opinions are different but my opionion is as simple as this. "James Key is the man."
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Questions? We have answers
What a Civil Rights Lawyer Can Do for You
A civil rights lawyer focuses on protecting individuals whose constitutional rights have been violated by government authorities, employers, or private organizations. These lawyers specialize in cases involving discrimination, police misconduct, freedom of speech, and other fundamental rights guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution and civil rights laws, such as the Civil Rights Act, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Fair Housing Act.
Whether you've been discriminated against due to race, gender, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics, or you believe your civil rights have been violated by a government entity, a civil rights lawyer can help you seek justice, hold wrongdoers accountable, and secure compensation for any harm you've suffered.
When Should I Hire a Civil Rights Lawyer?
You should hire a civil rights lawyer when your constitutional rights or other protected rights have been violated, and you need legal assistance to seek justice. Some key situations in which you may need a civil rights lawyer include:
- Employment discrimination: If you have faced discrimination at work based on race, gender, age, religion, national origin, or disability, a civil rights lawyer can help you file claims under laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Police misconduct or brutality: If you were the victim of police brutality, unlawful arrest, racial profiling, or other forms of misconduct, a lawyer can help you file a lawsuit for violations of your Fourth and Fourteenth Amendment rights.
- Freedom of speech or assembly violations: If your First Amendment rights to free speech or peaceful assembly have been restricted by the government, a civil rights lawyer can represent you in challenging the violation.
- Housing discrimination: If you’ve been denied housing or faced unfair treatment due to your race, ethnicity, gender, or disability, a lawyer can help you file a complaint under the Fair Housing Act.
- Voter rights violations: If you believe your right to vote has been unfairly suppressed or you’ve faced discrimination in the voting process, a civil rights lawyer can help you fight for your rights.
- Disability rights violations: If you’ve faced discrimination in accessing public spaces, employment, or services due to a disability, a lawyer can help enforce your rights under the ADA.
- LGBTQ+ rights violations: If you've experienced discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in employment, housing, or public services, a civil rights lawyer can help you pursue legal remedies.
Hiring a lawyer early on can help you understand your legal options and build a strong case to protect your rights.
What Does a Civil Rights Lawyer Do?
A civil rights lawyer provides legal representation and advocacy to individuals whose rights have been violated. Their work can include:
- Filing lawsuits: A civil rights lawyer can represent you in court by filing lawsuits against individuals, businesses, or government entities that violated your rights.
- Advocating for policy changes: Civil rights lawyers often engage in advocacy work, pushing for reforms to laws and policies that infringe upon people's rights.
- Representing clients in discrimination claims: These lawyers help clients file claims with federal or state agencies, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
- Negotiating settlements: In many cases, civil rights lawyers work to negotiate settlements for their clients before a case goes to trial, securing compensation for damages such as lost wages, emotional distress, or legal fees.
- Defending freedom of expression: Lawyers may represent clients whose rights to free speech, assembly, or protest were violated by government restrictions or other actions.
- Handling appeals: If your civil rights case has been decided but you wish to appeal the ruling, a civil rights lawyer can help you through the appeals process.
How Are Civil Rights Lawyers Paid?
Civil rights lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Contingency fee: Many civil rights lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. Their fee is typically a percentage (usually 25% to 40%) of the settlement or damages awarded.
- Hourly rate: For cases that require extensive legal research or litigation, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Pro bono or sliding scale: Some civil rights lawyers or organizations may work on a pro bono (free) basis or use a sliding fee scale for clients who cannot afford typical legal fees.
- Flat fee: In specific cases, a lawyer may charge a flat fee for services like drafting legal documents or filing a complaint.
It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does a Civil Rights Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a civil rights lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of legal issue. General cost estimates include:
- Contingency fee cases: For cases taken on a contingency basis, the lawyer’s fee will typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or judgment awarded.
- Hourly rates: Many civil rights lawyers charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For straightforward legal tasks, such as filing a complaint with a government agency or drafting legal documents, flat fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Pro bono work: Some civil rights lawyers or nonprofit organizations provide free legal representation in certain cases involving important constitutional or civil rights issues.
Be sure to ask for a detailed estimate of costs during your consultation to understand the financial commitment involved.
Top Questions to Ask a Civil Rights Lawyer
Before hiring a civil rights lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with civil rights cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s employment discrimination, police misconduct, or First Amendment violations. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer works on a contingency fee basis, hourly rate, or flat fee, and ask for an estimate of the total cost of your case. -
What is the likelihood of success for my case?
Ask the lawyer to provide an honest assessment of your case, including the strengths, weaknesses, and potential outcomes. -
Have you handled cases like mine before?
Inquire about the lawyer’s experience in cases with similar facts and legal issues. -
What is the timeline for resolving my case?
While exact timelines can vary, ask for an estimate of how long your case may take, from filing to resolution. -
Will you handle my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may work on parts of your case, so it’s important to know who will handle your legal matter directly.
How to Check the Credibility of a Civil Rights Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable civil rights lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for specific civil rights experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in civil rights law and have a history of handling 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 success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can speak to their experience with civil rights cases.
- Check for advocacy or nonprofit work: Lawyers involved with civil rights organizations, such as the ACLU or NAACP Legal Defense Fund, may have a strong reputation in the civil rights legal community.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a civil rights lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- A detailed account of the violation: Provide a written summary of the events, including dates, times, and any people involved in the violation of your rights.
- Documentation and evidence: Bring any supporting documentation, such as emails, letters, photos, or video footage that may help prove the violation of your rights.
- Records of complaints or reports: If you’ve filed complaints with a government agency or reported the violation, bring copies of those documents.
- List of questions: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes of your case.
- Information on damages or harm: Be prepared to discuss the harm you’ve suffered due to the violation, such as emotional distress, financial loss, or physical injury.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and get the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
