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05 Jun, 2023 by Alan
I received poor counsel from John F. Martin. I was told a doctor who injured me could pay me $30k without needing to notify their insurance, then months later, I was told it was $3K. There were several reoccurring billing errors. When I complained to Mr. Martin in writing about the errors and the handling of my account, he attacked the credibility of my case. Avoid this firm!
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23 Oct, 2009 by Vanji
John's team was incredible, and professional. I am 100 percent pleased.
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15 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Fasano is calm and kindhearted person. He help me with my family case and devote his time to win my case. I'm confident with him expressing my opinion to our case.
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10 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Larry was not good in my Family Law case and civil litigation cases. If an ex-live in stole your property / items and does not have their name on the title of your house, you should be able to get that piece of property / item back within wondering if that ex will take or claim your house. This lawyer did not know how to use the law to our advantage. He milked me for 3 years until I got another lawyer and she helped me settle the case in less than 3 months. I would have still been fighting my ex in court if I kept using Mr Fasano. Don't use him, unless you want to be milked like a cow !
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15 May, 2023 by Mi na
I'm convinced that Ann Riley is the most ethical, competent, and intelligent divorce attorney in the Bay Area. I interviewed a lot of lawyers and many of them were simply not confident about the law and fairly apathetic. Ann really cares in a way that is helpful. She doesn't waste your time, she is able to be firm when needed, and is extremely logical. She has a good understanding of the family court system in SF. Opposing counsel was unprofessional and difficult and Ms. Riley refused to engage, knowing that it would cost me more if she did so and that it wouldn't get me any further ahead. A lot of attorneys like to engage in time wasting activities because they know they can get away with billing you for them - there wasn't a single line item in Ms.Riley's bill that was questionable - she deserved every penny of her retainer. I wish I had met Ann under different circumstances but I'm really grateful to have met her when I did. She gives me hope that there are still decent and good people who find value in doing the right thing.
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23 Dec, 2020 by Brayden fox
Riley Ann bullies me!
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18 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Farley failed to show up for my MSC. He did not show up for one court appearance. Mr. Farley sent an attorney who had rarely appeared in court before. He didn't show up for either of my depositions, nor did he show up for the depositions we conducted. He sent a new lawyer who didn't know what they were doing for everything. Very disappointing. Mr. Farley came highly recommended. He just phoned it in...if that. Giving him 3 stars is a gift.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Dave gaines
I wasn't impressed by attorney Scott Holbrook. At all. Honestly, his legal acumen seems like that of a first-year law student. He's really bad at his job. How is this guy a partner in the firm?!
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30 Jan, 2020 by Shannon rahn
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16 Jan, 2024 by מיכאל יגאל maimon מימון
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24 Sep, 2019 by Leah forrest
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11 May, 2024 by Karen harmon
I have developed a personal relationship with one of the receptionist, so when I use the text to office for of communication she knows I’m giving honest, timely information. And she is incredibly prompt at responding to the situation for me. I highly recommend Leigh law offices
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08 Mar, 2024 by Kathleen barit
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04 Mar, 2024 by Lilia ventura
Muy agradecida con todo el apoyo que recibi de la oficina Leigh Law Firm en el proceso de work compensation del accidente de mi esposo.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Gerald bennett
BRAVEST MAN I EVER MET. IT WAS MY PLEASURE TO STAND BEHIND SUCH A MAN NUKK AMON
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27 Apr, 2024 by A to z global design
I have never actually been insulted during a preliminary conversation to a consultation. They also copied my case information to a random g mail address.
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08 Apr, 2024 by W ii
After calling and speaking with a receptionist, it's now very obvious to me why this firm has such TERRIBLE reviews. The lady I spoke with with so rude and dismissive. She cut me off and didn't even let me finish explaining why I was seeking an attorney to begin with.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Melissa gladstone
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16 May, 2024 by David hill
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17 Apr, 2024 by A. shah
Mike Flory deliberately tripled my restitution in a criminal case several years back. Just read an OC Register article that he tried to drop the hammer on others as well. Questions: why does he still work here? How does 1 get reimbursed for malfeasance?
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27 Aug, 2024 by Melissa gladstone
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16 May, 2024 by David hill
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17 Apr, 2024 by A. shah
Mike Flory deliberately tripled my restitution in a criminal case several years back. Just read an OC Register article that he tried to drop the hammer on others as well. Questions: why does he still work here? How does 1 get reimbursed for malfeasance?
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05 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
He is content with losing all his cases. Doesn’t even try to defend anyone. If you have him helping you, you have a better chance at representing yourself. On top of that he seems to be too friendly to the prosecuting team, wouldn’t doubt if he just plays along for some sort of deal for him.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Christine guryev
Overworked public defenders incapable of providing sound legal support.
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29 Jan, 2021 by Susan gray
I'd like to give Ms Susan Leff for her excellent representation today in court. Her research and discovery was thorough and her attitude was positive and warm. I rest easy knowing she has my best interest at heart. Thank you Susan Gray
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25 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Without a doubt the most amazing person/ attorney on the Planet. Without great detail- Christine saved my life, my dogs life and my sanity! Need help with an animal situation? Why are you procrastinating? Contact Christine immediately!!!!
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25 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
We were referred to her for a case involving 3 dogs that were in my care as fosters for a local rescue for well over a year that we wanted to adopt after finding out the rescue wanted to terminate one for being a bully breed and possibly "unadoptable." She started out strong as far as emails go, saying we would have a good case against them and their unrealistic attitudes and demands. She did nothing to help us resolve this case but give the opposing counsel money amounts on what we could do to settle the case without consulting me some of the times. She was rude, unprofessional and charged me ridiculous amounts of money she had me pay through her "non profit" page and got us no where. Stay clear of her, she has no interest in helping animals.
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21 Jan, 2019 by Christine
Christine doesn't care about animals. She actually gets mad at you for asking legal questions. I wrote her an email regarding my town's SPCA that commits ongoing animal cruelty. She responded telling me to call her the next day. I did and she said, "Remind me what your emailss was about. Whenever someone writes more than 2 sentences I just have them call me". It sounded like she never even read my email. I explained the animal cruelty at the animal shelter in detail. I thought she'd be shocked to hear that these poor animals were treated so cruelly. Her response was "Umm..hmm..." and interrupted frequently hurrying the conversation. Then she told, "You want the animal shelter to sue you." Then she told me to look up this website and advised that I provoke the animal shelter to sue so I could get this Whistle Blower organization to represent me for free. WHAT?! I told her I wanted to know her fees so she could bring a case against the animal shelter. She said, "I have child and I really don't have time." I have to go take care of MY now. MY CHILD needs me. She became very dramatic and angry. As if I was to blame for the fact her website was still up asking for business. First, how could she be so cold when hearing about systemic animal cruelty? Second, she told me to provoke a lawsuit on myself? What kind of nutty legal advice is that? What kind of lawyer tells someone to go get sued? I made it clear I was willing to pay to bring a case against the animal shelter. Furthermore, she doesn't even care that in the time it would take me to get sued more animals would be subjected to cruelty. Third, why is she acting like I'm the one taking her away from her child? I don't know her. She's the one who told me to call her! Something is really wrong with this woman. I don't think she's mentally all there.
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26 Dec, 2020 by Shannon
Ms. Titus handled a matter for me. We WON! She did a great job with the paperwork and she was aggressive in the courtroom. Her price was affordable too. I'm thrilled!
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14 Jan, 2019 by Albert
I hired Marion to work 2 traffic tickets for me a 1-pointer and a 2-pointer. I asked her to try and get me down to 1 point by negotiating or fighting the tickets. She told me that she wasn't confident that she could win and that she would try to negotiate, but she negotiated poorly and pled me guilty to both tickets, for a total of 3 points. I should have been able to take traffic school to delete 1 point, but Marion screwed up the paperwork and by the time I realized what she had done, it was too late, so I got 3 points, and my license got suspended. Thanks Marion!
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20 Dec, 2016 by Concerned observer
She arrived at the Solano County courthouse looking disheveled. Maybe it was a rough night. Who knows, but a lack of professional appearance could be of concern.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Zoraida cordova
If you’re a creative, especially in film in LA, find a law group that knows how to handle a contract and negotiate things in favor of their clients. I’ve been an author for 12 years, and I would not recommend at all.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Pau wes
They are ambulance chasers. They search court records for new filings and then email you to get your case. Never ever use them
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28 Sep, 2023 by Christian daniels
Stay away. They don't make you feel like a priority and they do very sloppy work. I had to constantly stay on then, almost begging them, for progress on my case. Their good lawyers of the firm left years ago. That tells you something.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Zoraida cordova
If you’re a creative, especially in film in LA, find a law group that knows how to handle a contract and negotiate things in favor of their clients. I’ve been an author for 12 years, and I would not recommend at all.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Pau wes
They are ambulance chasers. They search court records for new filings and then email you to get your case. Never ever use them
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28 Sep, 2023 by Christian daniels
Stay away. They don't make you feel like a priority and they do very sloppy work. I had to constantly stay on then, almost begging them, for progress on my case. Their good lawyers of the firm left years ago. That tells you something.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Zoraida cordova
If you’re a creative, especially in film in LA, find a law group that knows how to handle a contract and negotiate things in favor of their clients. I’ve been an author for 12 years, and I would not recommend at all.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Pau wes
They are ambulance chasers. They search court records for new filings and then email you to get your case. Never ever use them
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28 Sep, 2023 by Christian daniels
Stay away. They don't make you feel like a priority and they do very sloppy work. I had to constantly stay on then, almost begging them, for progress on my case. Their good lawyers of the firm left years ago. That tells you something.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Bradley ball
In my opinion, the Attorney for this firm, Natasha Domek, lied to me and it cost me money. Do not trust
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16 Aug, 2023 by Kerrington johnson
50 state partner….. they are the best at insurance defense
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10 Dec, 2019 by John freed
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19 Aug, 2022 by John
My uncle and I own a restaurant together. We were sued by a handicapped person claiming we didn't have the right type of parking and bathroom. We spoke to a lot of lawyers. Most of them said just settle and be done with it. He said if we settle then they will hit us again and again. We spent so much money with this guy. So much time. The whole case was a huge distraction to our lives. We ended up spending many times more money on him than what these cases usually settle for. We regret it.
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25 Jul, 2022 by Robert
Unprofessional and rude. Only in it for the money. Charged me so much for a simple case, none of it was necessary.
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10 Jul, 2010 by Anonymous
Wish I could have found him sooner!!!
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04 Apr, 2024 by Megan nauer
I sent 5+ emails and left 5+ voicemails over the corse of about 2 months, after initially speaking with Mike Hyland, and no one ever gave me a response. Completely unprofessional. Would not recommend.
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14 Feb, 2024 by Steve boswell
Went through a bankruptcy with them. I recommend.
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03 Dec, 2022 by Elisa backaert
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28 May, 2020 by Sarah jones
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06 May, 2020 by Maaz haq
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07 Jan, 2020 by Andrew trejo
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28 May, 2020 by Sarah jones
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06 May, 2020 by Maaz haq
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07 Jan, 2020 by Andrew trejo
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01 Jul, 2013 by Ray coleman
TRIPLE BEWARE!!! Stay far away from this guy! He did nothing but bs about how fantastic and successful he was at wrongful terminations and sexual discrimination, only to fold at every turn of our suit. He did absolutely nothing but take what little money we had and made us look and feel like fools. If it appears to him he might actually have to work, (We did all our work for him and he would try to charge us for that), he shuts down leaving you to defend yourself from the oncoming lawyers. He is very arrogant, unprofessional and was a BIG BULLY toward us! PLease search harder and find the right person for the job... never Daniel Ray Bacon!!!!!!
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11 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
BEWARE!!!! Our family hired Daniel Ray Bacon for a dispute over a trust. It turns out that Bacon does not handle this area of law but took our case boasting about how versed he was. Bacon strings you along, promising that your case is really strong. He bills you for subpoenas, depositions, all the while stating he's gathering "evidence." His depositions clearly show he's grasping for straws and unprepared. His plan from the get-go is to bill, bill, bill and urge you to settle before any trial can occur, because that is where his flawed work as an attorney all comes out. We eventually left Bacon after one year and about $100,000 in legal fees. It was our mistake picking Bacon. After finding a real expert in trust law, we realized that Bacon wasn't even fighting the right battles. There were fundamental errors made by Bacon which showed he was oblivious to trust law. In fact, based on the manner of how he conducts his deposition, I'm flabbergasted that he had enough competence to pass the state BAR. Bacon is downright incompetent. For example, Bacon assumed that assets in the trust were properly deeded to the trust when all the while, they were left in the name of the trustor. He failed to realize this. Once brought to his attention, he stated that it was not an issue which it turned out to be. Bacon was fighting for a trust that was never properly funded to begin with and never saw this huge problem. Google Bacon in the California BAR and you will find adverse action was taken on him previously. He was "suspended for one year, stayed, placed on two years of probation with an actual 60-day suspension, and was ordered to take the MPRE within one year." This man is downright dangerous, stay away! He will hurt your pocket book, but worse, he will hurt you while you are involved in a lawsuit. Bacon is best described as the quintessential lawyer that our society loves to hate.
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27 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
Twice Mr. Bacon has served us very well. First, in my wife's discrimination case, he was able to negotiate a fair settlement in a timely manner. Second, in my wrongful termination case, while up against a gang of vicious lawyers, inept or prejudiced state officials, and a thoroughly biased judicial system, over a three year period he was able to keep my case alive and in the end negotiate a settlement.
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11 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Just like any human being Leo Terrell is human and is subject to imperfections. All in all Mr. Terrell kept his word and refunded our money. Leo has a thick skin and that is what makes him an excellent lawyer. His name alone has clout in and out of the courtroom. Without his representation we would not have ever gotten a three year restraining order against racist gang members who were terrorizing us for years. Thank you Leo.
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28 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
Leo passes himself as vocal civil rights attorney on talk shows to drum up his business but in my experience as paying client he cannot care less about your civil rights or your legal rights as client. Much has been written about Leo recently. Leo's own staff and previous employee referred to Leo as “scumbag lawyer” and for that I do believe there is a valid reason. If you search the internet you will find it. In time when he took my money I did not know that he has 36 other cases and will delay filling of my case more than 6 months. I did not know Leo Terrell will than file mediocre pleading and ignore my litigation objectives, emails and calls. I did not know when I hired him that I will have to live in fear of losing my sizable retainer and endure yelling, threats and other abuse. In my experience, the only thing Leo cares about is MONEY. His gig is to take sizable retainers from unsuspecting clients (reportedly $10,000 - $15,000) to keep his bank account balance bloated and then he flat out ignores client and does whatever he wishes with the client's case. In mediations he intimidated me and threatened to walk on me if I do not obey his directive, irrespective of my litigation objectives. When he couldn’t settle the case Leo lied to the judge and dropped my case on false pretexts. Leo also uses one trick that you should be aware of. Leo will use his low paid associate as witnesses against you if he decides to drop you case. Be careful! It happened to me and it seemingly happened to others so while this appears to be a pattern one can only consider this report and few others on AVVO a “tip of the iceberg”. If you have a current case with Leo and he doesn't treat you right, keep the good record and file BAR complain early. Taking abuse from Leo DOESN'T PAY! Multiple lawsuits against Leo Terrell have been filed in Superior Court over the years by clients and vendors . Go to any Superior Court and search his name. Record shows that Leo is sued by clients and service providers many times. This pattern of abuse where clients and providers end up losing their money, while Leo Terrell keeps their money and their work product is something the California BAR should look into closely. "Leo’s way" caused harm and I wish I NEVER gave my case to this “civil rights imposter lawyer”.
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11 Jun, 2011 by Behtaj amiri aka richard amiri
Anti antisemitism by a new manager at a fortune 100 computer company ruined my 15 years of company documented exemplary service. The company covered up my requests for help against the manager. 4 Independent examiners sided 100% in my favor in the underlying workman's compensation case leading to a civil case in which Leo Terrel was hired. Leo Terrel Spent $250,000 on my case over 3 years. He conducted 33 depositions. He paid for 10 days of court and confidently passed summery judgement, and then he abandoned my case 5 days before trial. To leave the case he told the judge that he did not know of the 11 tape recordings I had of the defendant, when in fact he used the recordings during some of the depositions. Later, another attorney estimated that Leo Terrell spent $200,000 of his own money and $50,000 of his time in preparing my case over 3 years. He said Terrell even paid $13,000 for 10 days of court time for trial, just days prior to suspeiciously removing himself from the case. I only paid a $5,000 retainer when I hired Terrell. Worthy of inspection are: 1. How can a judge approve Leo Terrell's request to leave me just days prior to trial when in fact he knew that Terrell used the tapes while deposing witnesses? This approval was done in Santa Monica court on record. 2. I had witnesses (my brothers and their wives) sitting in the court room ready to testify that at the start of the case, Terrell instructed them to listen and categories the tape recordings, but the judge did not allow their testimony, telling me that the appropriate introductions were not made. Considering the fact that I'm not an attorney, plus I didn't even know why we were in court, one would expect an HONORABLE judge to delay his judgement and give me time to bring witnesses forward the right way. But instead the judge granted Mr. Terrell's request to leave my case just 5 days prior to trial. Another judge in downtown Los Angeles who found out about this, told me that I should sue Leo Terrell for malpractice. He said this on record in his court room in front of an audience. I couldn't find an attorney to take over my case because I couldn't reopen discovery. The devil interrupted the Garden of Eden, after which G-D gave humanity one chance after another to be good. G-D never got what he wanted from us. The bad in the world causes pain and damage. This has made me what I am today. G-D's warrior with a mission to Significantly Improve the World at any cost. Now Significantly Improving the World daily at www.Behtaj.com
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11 Aug, 2017 by Anton
I talked to this guy about an " as is " issue. He did not seem to understand to " as is " exceptions in the law. He never mentioned omission of material and critical information from a transactor that could make my case. Did not mention anything about implied warranties or a fiduciary issues .
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18 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Firstly, let me say this. Matthew is a fine young man and I think he will do better in the future. He was fairly responsive and always kept me in the loop on what was happening. This was extremely important to me as my case was of a sensitive nature and I felt that he was there for me the entire way through the process, even though we did lose. The disappointment comes in the sense that it seemed like Matthew was disorganized. The information that I gave him in secret was revealed to others whom should not have known of my case. I believe that these are simply matters of integrity, however, Matthew still was a very nice fellow. I wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.
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26 Apr, 2014 by Karl
Met him in his office,gave him some money,never heard from him again.I sent him paperwork as I received it,and followed up by calling him to discuss upcoming dates and actions. The dates came and went never a word.
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04 Aug, 2023 by Mariadela davila
Mr Kosloff is a very dynamic and efficient attorney. He dig until solve the case. I recommend him very well
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02 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
This lawyer took our case and held on to it for 11 months. He NEVER followed up with us and every time we called to check on the case. He'd say he was working on it, It's on his desk... Every excuse in the book. Always asking rhetorical questions when I'd call. He'd alway end the call with I'll update you in a week. BS lawyer. He did NOTHING with our case. I went to another lawyer and in less then 6 months the case was done. One would think all BH lawyers are trust worthy. Think again! Please Stay away for Michael Kosloff!!
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21 Oct, 2008 by Anonymous
Michael Kosloff didn't file any paper work on my case for over a year, didn't keep me updated, didn't return my phone calls. The guy was a disaster. After I fried him, another attorney finished my divorce in less than two months. Never, ever use this guy. He'll drag your case out. I suspect he just wants to increase the billable hours.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Andrew samuelson
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26 Sep, 2024 by Sonja brooks
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10 Jul, 2024 by Ryan o'riordan
A warning to out-of-state attorneys. I have paid and applied to take the Bar this month. Just found an email in my junk folder stating I need a certificate of good standing or else my application will be cancelled and no refund given. From where I don't know. there is no contact information. No correspondence on my applicant portal. After paying over $3000 I am astonished how poorly this process has gone. My application and admission to Minnesota was nothing like this. Impossible to talk to someone on the phone. All this after my application was not accepted because there was no button to submit statements on the application. Incredibly poor performance.
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09 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
i should have read the reviews on this attorney, before i hired her, hard to reach , long periods before a return call is made, didnt complete the job, have to hire new attorney, didnt send notice of her move to ANOTHER STATE!, cant obtain my records, no response.
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04 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Although Anne-Leith might be a competent attorney (I'm not sure), her staff dropped the ball many times. There were problems with over-billing, lost documents, lack of follow up, poor communication. I also felt she was hustling me for more business pertaining to unrelated issues. I do not know if she gave me good advice or not. I believe she dragged the case out far too long at my expense. Find someone else.
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07 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Unfortunately this firm dropped the ball and I had to terminate my relationship with them. I ended up paying more money to get a competent attorney. That said, he got the job done quickly and professionally. Anne-Leith's and the associate attorney tried to bill me for services that I thought were included and they called it "billable work" without my knowledge and prior approval. This firm is not professional and should be avoided at all costs. If you check other review sites you'll see that others have had the similar experiences with then. You've been warned.
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20 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
As other reviewers have mentioned, Ms. Brauer charges high fees, but did very little. She is hard to reach. I don't think she needs new clients, or it's a strategy to make her seem important. In any case, when I asked why they are recommending that I withdraw the case at the end of my ordeal, she (or her assistant) told me that it is because they did not expect the other attorney to do so much research and build such a strong case. Really?
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04 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Laurel Brauer and her partner Colleen Hemingway have absolutely no business practicing family law. They present horribly in the courtroom, Ms Brauer stumbles and fails to articulate minor points. Their fees are exorbitant, and they are judgmental, rude, and lazy---they never arrive in the office before 10, and they are never in court either. Ms. Hemingway was buddy buddy with my ex husband, and was blatantly taking his side even though he violated a number of court orders regarding custody. If they had an issue with me, which they did, they should have made their bias known, and I would have sought other counsel, which I did ultimately, but $60,000 later and too late. They refused to represent my interests, and were clearly only experienced in financial issues regarding family law, not custody issues, In a 3 month time frame, they collected over 60k and resolved almost nothing. They were so late in filing emergency orders when my ex husband decided to move against court orders it proved disastrous to my children. They attacked me, my parenting, my personality, my clothes, and my relationships with every person in my life. Ms Hemingway has no children, but dispensed more parenting advice than legal advice, I was mocked and ridiculed by them for taking my kids out for fun weekend events, rescuing and keeping a stray dog, and having big birthday celebrations for the kids. They were supposed to fill adverse interests on the 401k and did not, enabling my ex to move funds and deplete the account. I don't know how they stay in business, but if you are going to pay $500 an hour I suggest you contact an a phenomenal female attorney in Tustin with a great reputation in the courts that actually works to represent your needs. These are two of the most dishonest people I have met in my 2 year divorce nightmare.
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12 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
I never received a statement from this attorney (for three months) until I fired her (she claimed to not have email for 50 days). The bill was $9,000 for one filing of a boiler plate document and for a very unprofessional letter she sent on my behalf without my approval. The rest of the bill was padded with redundancies and review after review of what? I don't know! She additionally missed a filing deadline with the Court and expected me to pay for drafts of which should have been filed that I never saw. I cannot understand an attorney who claims to have no email for 50 days and whose website has been "temporarily under repair" for weeks on end. There are some very good attorneys out there and Laurel Brauer is not one of them. I have filed for an arbitration hearing regarding my statement and have filed a complaint against her with the Orange County Bar Association. She won't even respond to my letters regarding disputing her fees. She has her associate do so. She also informed me when I hired her that she had an office in Los Angeles. Apparently she does not and has not for some time. Find another lawyer.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Have you handled cases like mine before?
    Inquire about the lawyer’s experience in cases with similar facts and legal issues.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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