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14 Dec, 2023 by Kayla wilson
Very responsive, helpful, patient and professional. Very empathetic and sincere
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15 Mar, 2023 by Resa p
I contacted the firm in December regarding an employment law issue. I wasn't informed of the firm's unavailability until months later. The attorney who reviewed my case wasn't even familiar enough with my situation to know I'm NOT a state employee. I think I dodged a bullet when they decided not to represent me!
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25 Nov, 2021 by Mickey priddy
Martha Owen is awesome at her job!
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11 Oct, 2023 by Charles edward andrew lincoln iv
10 Jun, 2023 by B d
Nice
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01 Jun, 2023 by Eric rishel
11 Oct, 2023 by Charles edward andrew lincoln iv
10 Jun, 2023 by B d
Nice
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01 Jun, 2023 by Eric rishel
11 Oct, 2023 by Charles edward andrew lincoln iv
10 Jun, 2023 by B d
Nice
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01 Jun, 2023 by Eric rishel
28 Aug, 2024 by Carlos aguado bolaños
I initially chose JP Law Office for my divorce case based on their reputation and the promising start I experienced. Nicolette was approachable, proactive, and seemed genuinely committed to guiding me through this challenging time. In the beginning, I felt confident that I was in good hands. Their close attention to detail and prompt responses gave me hope that my case would be handled with the utmost professionalism.
However, as the case progressed, I began to notice a concerning shift. What started as a proactive and client-focused approach gradually turned into a frustrating experience. Communication became less frequent, and important aspects of my case seemed to be overlooked or delayed.Instead we were wasting hours in not so important details. It became increasingly clear that the level of care and diligence I initially received was no longer a priority. They were managing different cases but also mine and they had no incentives to spend the hours in the relevant and important details.
Unfortunately, this decline in service had significant consequences. Not only did it lead to unnecessary delays, but it also resulted in considerable financial strain and a disastrous sentence. I had expected a higher standard of service, especially considering the costs involved. Instead, I was left feeling that my resources were wasted, with little to show for the time and money invested.
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Ahora en español si les sirve.
Inicialmente elegí JP Law Office para mi caso de divorcio basado en su reputación y el comienzo prometedor que experimenté. Nicolette era accesible, proactiva, y parecía genuinamente comprometida a guiarme a través de este momento difícil. Al principio, me sentí seguro de que estaba en buenas manos. Su atención a los detalles y respuestas rápidas me dieron la esperanza de que mi caso sería manejado con la mayor profesionalidad.
Sin embargo, a medida que el caso avanzaba, empecé a notar un cambio preocupante. Lo que comenzó como un enfoque proactivo y centrado en el cliente se convirtió gradualmente en una experiencia frustrante. La comunicación se hizo menos frecuente, y los aspectos importantes de mi caso parecían pasarse por alto o retrasarse, sino que perdíamos horas en detalles no tan importantes. Cada vez estaba más claro que el nivel de atención y diligencia que recibí inicialmente ya no era una prioridad. Estaban gestionando casos diferentes pero también el mío y no tenían incentivos para dedicar horas a los detalles relevantes e importantes.
Por desgracia, esta disminución del servicio tuvo consecuencias importantes. No sólo provocó retrasos innecesarios, sino que también se tradujo en una considerable presión financiera y una sentencia desastrosa. Esperaba un servicio de mayor calidad, sobre todo teniendo en cuenta los costes. En lugar de eso, me quedé con la sensación de que mis recursos se habían malgastado, con poco que demostrar por el tiempo y el dinero invertidos.
No recomendaría esta firma si lo que necesita es diligencia, cercanía y atención a los detalles durante todo el proceso.
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06 May, 2024 by Drew williams
03 May, 2024 by Alejandro deibe
Nicolette and her legal team are awesome. She was really invested in the case, with a full knowledge of the applicable law. She also listens and is open to accepting suggestions that improve the legal strategy. Nothing was left to chance.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Carlos aguado bolaños
I initially chose JP Law Office for my divorce case based on their reputation and the promising start I experienced. Nicolette was approachable, proactive, and seemed genuinely committed to guiding me through this challenging time. In the beginning, I felt confident that I was in good hands. Their close attention to detail and prompt responses gave me hope that my case would be handled with the utmost professionalism.
However, as the case progressed, I began to notice a concerning shift. What started as a proactive and client-focused approach gradually turned into a frustrating experience. Communication became less frequent, and important aspects of my case seemed to be overlooked or delayed.Instead we were wasting hours in not so important details. It became increasingly clear that the level of care and diligence I initially received was no longer a priority. They were managing different cases but also mine and they had no incentives to spend the hours in the relevant and important details.
Unfortunately, this decline in service had significant consequences. Not only did it lead to unnecessary delays, but it also resulted in considerable financial strain and a disastrous sentence. I had expected a higher standard of service, especially considering the costs involved. Instead, I was left feeling that my resources were wasted, with little to show for the time and money invested.
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Ahora en español si les sirve.
Inicialmente elegí JP Law Office para mi caso de divorcio basado en su reputación y el comienzo prometedor que experimenté. Nicolette era accesible, proactiva, y parecía genuinamente comprometida a guiarme a través de este momento difícil. Al principio, me sentí seguro de que estaba en buenas manos. Su atención a los detalles y respuestas rápidas me dieron la esperanza de que mi caso sería manejado con la mayor profesionalidad.
Sin embargo, a medida que el caso avanzaba, empecé a notar un cambio preocupante. Lo que comenzó como un enfoque proactivo y centrado en el cliente se convirtió gradualmente en una experiencia frustrante. La comunicación se hizo menos frecuente, y los aspectos importantes de mi caso parecían pasarse por alto o retrasarse, sino que perdíamos horas en detalles no tan importantes. Cada vez estaba más claro que el nivel de atención y diligencia que recibí inicialmente ya no era una prioridad. Estaban gestionando casos diferentes pero también el mío y no tenían incentivos para dedicar horas a los detalles relevantes e importantes.
Por desgracia, esta disminución del servicio tuvo consecuencias importantes. No sólo provocó retrasos innecesarios, sino que también se tradujo en una considerable presión financiera y una sentencia desastrosa. Esperaba un servicio de mayor calidad, sobre todo teniendo en cuenta los costes. En lugar de eso, me quedé con la sensación de que mis recursos se habían malgastado, con poco que demostrar por el tiempo y el dinero invertidos.
No recomendaría esta firma si lo que necesita es diligencia, cercanía y atención a los detalles durante todo el proceso.
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06 May, 2024 by Drew williams
03 May, 2024 by Alejandro deibe
Nicolette and her legal team are awesome. She was really invested in the case, with a full knowledge of the applicable law. She also listens and is open to accepting suggestions that improve the legal strategy. Nothing was left to chance.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Carlos aguado bolaños
I initially chose JP Law Office for my divorce case based on their reputation and the promising start I experienced. Nicolette was approachable, proactive, and seemed genuinely committed to guiding me through this challenging time. In the beginning, I felt confident that I was in good hands. Their close attention to detail and prompt responses gave me hope that my case would be handled with the utmost professionalism.
However, as the case progressed, I began to notice a concerning shift. What started as a proactive and client-focused approach gradually turned into a frustrating experience. Communication became less frequent, and important aspects of my case seemed to be overlooked or delayed.Instead we were wasting hours in not so important details. It became increasingly clear that the level of care and diligence I initially received was no longer a priority. They were managing different cases but also mine and they had no incentives to spend the hours in the relevant and important details.
Unfortunately, this decline in service had significant consequences. Not only did it lead to unnecessary delays, but it also resulted in considerable financial strain and a disastrous sentence. I had expected a higher standard of service, especially considering the costs involved. Instead, I was left feeling that my resources were wasted, with little to show for the time and money invested.
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Ahora en español si les sirve.
Inicialmente elegí JP Law Office para mi caso de divorcio basado en su reputación y el comienzo prometedor que experimenté. Nicolette era accesible, proactiva, y parecía genuinamente comprometida a guiarme a través de este momento difícil. Al principio, me sentí seguro de que estaba en buenas manos. Su atención a los detalles y respuestas rápidas me dieron la esperanza de que mi caso sería manejado con la mayor profesionalidad.
Sin embargo, a medida que el caso avanzaba, empecé a notar un cambio preocupante. Lo que comenzó como un enfoque proactivo y centrado en el cliente se convirtió gradualmente en una experiencia frustrante. La comunicación se hizo menos frecuente, y los aspectos importantes de mi caso parecían pasarse por alto o retrasarse, sino que perdíamos horas en detalles no tan importantes. Cada vez estaba más claro que el nivel de atención y diligencia que recibí inicialmente ya no era una prioridad. Estaban gestionando casos diferentes pero también el mío y no tenían incentivos para dedicar horas a los detalles relevantes e importantes.
Por desgracia, esta disminución del servicio tuvo consecuencias importantes. No sólo provocó retrasos innecesarios, sino que también se tradujo en una considerable presión financiera y una sentencia desastrosa. Esperaba un servicio de mayor calidad, sobre todo teniendo en cuenta los costes. En lugar de eso, me quedé con la sensación de que mis recursos se habían malgastado, con poco que demostrar por el tiempo y el dinero invertidos.
No recomendaría esta firma si lo que necesita es diligencia, cercanía y atención a los detalles durante todo el proceso.
Read more
06 May, 2024 by Drew williams
03 May, 2024 by Alejandro deibe
Nicolette and her legal team are awesome. She was really invested in the case, with a full knowledge of the applicable law. She also listens and is open to accepting suggestions that improve the legal strategy. Nothing was left to chance.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Carlos aguado bolaños
I initially chose JP Law Office for my divorce case based on their reputation and the promising start I experienced. Nicolette was approachable, proactive, and seemed genuinely committed to guiding me through this challenging time. In the beginning, I felt confident that I was in good hands. Their close attention to detail and prompt responses gave me hope that my case would be handled with the utmost professionalism.
However, as the case progressed, I began to notice a concerning shift. What started as a proactive and client-focused approach gradually turned into a frustrating experience. Communication became less frequent, and important aspects of my case seemed to be overlooked or delayed.Instead we were wasting hours in not so important details. It became increasingly clear that the level of care and diligence I initially received was no longer a priority. They were managing different cases but also mine and they had no incentives to spend the hours in the relevant and important details.
Unfortunately, this decline in service had significant consequences. Not only did it lead to unnecessary delays, but it also resulted in considerable financial strain and a disastrous sentence. I had expected a higher standard of service, especially considering the costs involved. Instead, I was left feeling that my resources were wasted, with little to show for the time and money invested.
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Ahora en español si les sirve.
Inicialmente elegí JP Law Office para mi caso de divorcio basado en su reputación y el comienzo prometedor que experimenté. Nicolette era accesible, proactiva, y parecía genuinamente comprometida a guiarme a través de este momento difícil. Al principio, me sentí seguro de que estaba en buenas manos. Su atención a los detalles y respuestas rápidas me dieron la esperanza de que mi caso sería manejado con la mayor profesionalidad.
Sin embargo, a medida que el caso avanzaba, empecé a notar un cambio preocupante. Lo que comenzó como un enfoque proactivo y centrado en el cliente se convirtió gradualmente en una experiencia frustrante. La comunicación se hizo menos frecuente, y los aspectos importantes de mi caso parecían pasarse por alto o retrasarse, sino que perdíamos horas en detalles no tan importantes. Cada vez estaba más claro que el nivel de atención y diligencia que recibí inicialmente ya no era una prioridad. Estaban gestionando casos diferentes pero también el mío y no tenían incentivos para dedicar horas a los detalles relevantes e importantes.
Por desgracia, esta disminución del servicio tuvo consecuencias importantes. No sólo provocó retrasos innecesarios, sino que también se tradujo en una considerable presión financiera y una sentencia desastrosa. Esperaba un servicio de mayor calidad, sobre todo teniendo en cuenta los costes. En lugar de eso, me quedé con la sensación de que mis recursos se habían malgastado, con poco que demostrar por el tiempo y el dinero invertidos.
No recomendaría esta firma si lo que necesita es diligencia, cercanía y atención a los detalles durante todo el proceso.
Read more
06 May, 2024 by Drew williams
03 May, 2024 by Alejandro deibe
Nicolette and her legal team are awesome. She was really invested in the case, with a full knowledge of the applicable law. She also listens and is open to accepting suggestions that improve the legal strategy. Nothing was left to chance.
Read more
11 Jan, 2021 by Eardie curry
10 Jul, 2019 by Clayton colwell
My husband and I sought Ms. Eccles help for a legal matter. She seemed quite knowledgeable and helpful, and a second phone conversation a couple of weeks later seemed to indicate that we were all on the same page.
Then she went incommunicado for 3 full MONTHS.
No communication was acknowledged, let alone answered. Phone calls went unanswered. Texts went unanswered. E-mails went unanswered. Snail-mail letters went unanswered. We even tried a couple visits to her office -- it was closed.
3 full months of ZERO communication is just too unprofessional an attitude to give a recommendation for, no matter how knowledgeable she seemed on our first meeting.
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25 Mar, 2019 by Orr lodging
We've meet with a couple of attorneys to do our will. Only Bethann explained what we were writing, the why's behind it & suggestions to some options. So thankful for her down to earth approach, clarity & knowledge.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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10 Jan, 2017 by Sarah
Angela is beyond amazing as an attorney and a person. She handled my legal needs like they were her own. She was thorough, creative, collaborative and brilliant. She worked tirelessly to help me, and called in others if she thought they could help. I have never worked with an attorney like her. This was not a case, or a job, or even a client. I was a person, and she handled everything like it was the most important issue ever. I have used all of the "big firms" in town, and I will never go back. Angela is unbelievable. Professional. Capable. Smart. Effective.
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11 Oct, 2023 by Rich dougherty
Adrian C is my attorney, and he has thoroughly impressed me with his knowledge of the law and has made the other side look foolish and incompetent.
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06 Apr, 2022 by Jaci siegert
01 Mar, 2020 by Nick
11 Oct, 2023 by Rich dougherty
Adrian C is my attorney, and he has thoroughly impressed me with his knowledge of the law and has made the other side look foolish and incompetent.
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06 Apr, 2022 by Jaci siegert
01 Mar, 2020 by Nick
19 Aug, 2024 by Susan morrison
Gary Bledsoe is an excellent attorney with tenacity to handle difficult cases and winning.
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21 Apr, 2022 by Elaine p
I’ve called at least four times and spoken with a lady three times and she takes my phone number down and ask for my name including the reason I need a lawyer. Not once have I had a call back from this office.
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08 May, 2019 by Freddy flintstoned
Great man.
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11 Jan, 2022 by Norman
This review is for Manny Newburger, who is an unprofessional bigot who denied a referral because I have a "questionable email address." He is culturally insensitive and makes poor impulsive judgments.
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28 Apr, 2020 by Carol munoz
21 Sep, 2019 by Lacrista bagley
Professional and friendly staff. The attorneys fight for their clients. You won't go wrong choosing this firm for your legal needs.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Ghazaleh lane
Best team to work with. They care and listen to what you say. Great group of people to help you when you need support.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Mayra cancin
31 Oct, 2023 by Denise pride
Excellent service
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15 Mar, 2024 by Ghazaleh lane
Best team to work with. They care and listen to what you say. Great group of people to help you when you need support.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Mayra cancin
31 Oct, 2023 by Denise pride
Excellent service
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16 Jul, 2024 by Amanda payne
I contacted Mark for a case of mine that was very similar to a case he had in the past. Long story short, Mark was out of town and could not take my case. However, he gave a lot of free advice that helped me to handle it myself. I used the case law established by his previous case to push for what I wanted - and I got it.
Additionally, there was a very painful personal loss involved in our case. Mark, while traveling, took time to introduce me to other people experiencing similar grief. He was very kind and considerate. I was really moved by his actions, he had no idea who I was and is a very busy man.
If you want a proven winner who also has a heart - this guy.
Oh, and READ his other reviews. The negative review I read was ridiculous.
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23 Jun, 2023 by Jasmine raymond
21 Jun, 2023 by Kerry popham
16 Jul, 2024 by Amanda payne
I contacted Mark for a case of mine that was very similar to a case he had in the past. Long story short, Mark was out of town and could not take my case. However, he gave a lot of free advice that helped me to handle it myself. I used the case law established by his previous case to push for what I wanted - and I got it.
Additionally, there was a very painful personal loss involved in our case. Mark, while traveling, took time to introduce me to other people experiencing similar grief. He was very kind and considerate. I was really moved by his actions, he had no idea who I was and is a very busy man.
If you want a proven winner who also has a heart - this guy.
Oh, and READ his other reviews. The negative review I read was ridiculous.
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23 Jun, 2023 by Jasmine raymond
21 Jun, 2023 by Kerry popham
09 Jul, 2022 by Zenobia
1. Gratitude: Stephen Jon Moss cares and serves as a model for all lawyers seeking to do pro bono phone consultations. He promptly replied to my time-sensitive appeal issue—listening and providing invaluable advice July 7, 2022 free of charge, ending around 6:20 PM after normal business hours—nothing short of a miracle! I will forever value his advice, knowing that high-profile school districts and other clients pay top dollar for his expertise. He even offered me a follow-up call, if needed—illustrating character beyond reproach.
2. Process: Within about 2 hours after completing the Lawyer Referral Service (“LRS”) succinct online form, Mr. Moss’ profile appeared in my Inbox. I thought I needed a lawyer to represent me, immediately, but realized as we exceeded the 30-minute window that what I needed was sound pro se legal advice to comply with the court timeline. I noted my visit to the June 29, 2022 Austin Bar Association Lockhart Veterans Legal Clinic. Seeing attorneys eager to help with few veterans present made me vow to bridge the disconnect. Too many veterans need help to thwart homelessness or other legal issues despite attorneys like Mr. Moss willing to help through LRS or in-person.
3. Anecdote: At the outset, Mr. Moss reminded me of my value as a veteran. His ROTC experience connected us, too. “I’m a quick learner,” I said. “Just point me in the right direction.” Mr. Moss listened intently and answered all of my questions then strategized, helping me create a “To-Do List” to plan what, when, and how to file along with next steps. The following day I headed to Texas State Law Library then filed an answer and timely submitted my appeal, accordingly.
4.Hope: Now, I see the glass as half-full and plan to share the value of LRS and Mr. Moss’ legal expertise. Responsive, respectful, resilient: He was a perfect match. I highly recommend Mr. Moss’ service. It was, indeed, a blessing!
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29 Jun, 2022 by Mark
Some say that it’s impossible to prove a negative. Stephen Moss was able to do just this when I was unfairly terminated over a 7-year old’s misrepresentation of a short conversation we had in public in a school cafeteria. While an employee can be terminated in Texas without cause, Mr. Moss was logically able to explain to the Texas Education Agency’s investigator how the allegations against me were not only illogical but impossible.
As a Foster and Adoptive Parent of two now grown kids I was appalled at what I had been accused of and summarily dismissed without being given a formal chance to defend myself.
And I knew I needed help.
Mr. Moss listened to what I had to say, researched the law in question and with a single letter to the State Agency’s investigator explained that not only was any part of the law violated, the school district’s investigation was woefully inadequate and the conclusions reached preposterous.
Mr. Moss’s written correspondence was so compelling that the State investigator closed the investigation without even a formal hearing, potentially saving me thousands of dollars in unnecessary legal fees. Thank you Mr. Moss for protecting my reputation!
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19 May, 2022 by Alex
SO impressed with Mr. Moss. I was referred to him by the Lawyer Referral Service of Central Texas. Just amazing service from Mr. Moss. He completely understood my issue and had the best, most pragmatic, reasonable approach to resolving my issue. He took so much weight off of my shoulders in about 15 minutes regarding my real estate issue. Cant say enough how much I appreciate his advice. 10/10 definitely recommend Mr. Moss just amazing service!
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18 Jul, 2014 by Jim
Mr. Luther helped me obtain a divorce from my very obstinate and unpredictable spouse with his calmness and focus. He and his staff were reliable and responsive to my concerns and needs. I have referred him to friends who later thanked me for the referral.
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22 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
No stars being given here! Not even ONE! This law firm single handedly was so ill prepared for my court hearing that it resulted in the judge's asking for "clarification" on why my ex should owe the debt that he rolled into my separate property house. Luther's response: "Uhhh, uhhhh, well... if we don't ask for it, we won't get it!" ~~ The correct answer was completely outlined, documented, and could have been so easily proven, had Luther done even just an hour or two of due diligence (he was paid over 75K in less than six months time), but he was too busy taking 32 of his collegues, attorney friends, ad litems, etc., to Europe for his "Birthday party celebration" for two weeks, prior to my trial! In short, he's not worth an hour's pay, as that is all the work he'll likely do on any case! But he sure knows how to document hours not worked! I fired him, but the damage was already done! Not able to appeal, he stalled on the return of the evidence, hid or kept important files, and generally covered his "tracks."
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
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.
