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02 Oct, 2012 by Don
Robt. P. Baker successfully negotiated a difficult settlement on my behalf that involved corporate ownership and employment compensation issues. Decades ago my business partner and I had executed a complicated shareholder’s agreement that recently became a matter of dispute at a time when our company sold most of its assets to a new entity. The stakes were very high for me, as more than 30 years of employment were encompassed by my equity entitlement; the fruits of my entire career were on the line and the sale of our business brought with it the end of any employment or future income opportunity for me with either my partner or the entity purchasing our company's assets. Baker articulated a deft strategy to deal with the situation and guided me through the process, at all times keeping me informed and advised of possible outcomes and potential complications. The hurdle posed by the opposition’s initial failure to favorably respond was overcome by actions that were creative and appropriate. We filed a multi-faced legal suit that involved employment law, government regulation, and statutes relevant to business practice. Fortunately, litigation was avoided, but I have every confidence that Baker would have been able to navigate that phase of the case had it been necessary. Baker’s greatest attribute is that he is effective. His able management of my case achieved an outcome that was just and equitable.
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19 Sep, 2012 by Chowdhury
Robert is one of a kind lawyer that hits the ground running and acts fast. He is always reachable anytime on the day and extremely responsive. He is not your typical lawyer who signs you up and changes color on you. I went to him on a Saturday morning and by the end of the day, he had performed more than any lawyer would have done for me in a week...hands down. I was in need of legal assistance in a complex real estate matter but it was of no match to his level of knowledge and abilities. His passion and motivation to solve a case shows in the work he performs. He has been a constant fearless fighter in our case and have greatly exceeded my expectation. I have dealt with lawyers on several occasions and I now wish I met Robert earlier. My wife and I are extremely lucky to have Robert to work on our case.
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28 Nov, 2018 by Elle
Thank you a 100K times Marty! I will never be able to convey just how much your representation has meant for my family. Thank you for doing your duty with unwavering integrity and unmatched professionalism. You have such a wonderful sincerity and you exceeded our expectations in every way. We will always be grateful for finding you. We will always be grateful for your compassion and service. Thank you for giving my mom peace.
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28 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Have had poor experience in the past with PD however this man seems to prove an exception. I'm confident that no matter the outcome of my case Mr Miller did everything he possibly could to provide me with my best defense.
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22 Jan, 2021 by Sally
I hired Melody after a fraudulent account was opened in my name at a local Jewelry store. Melody took care of all necessary paperwork and communications with the store owner and the defrauded bank. After an investigation, the bank found in my favor and cancelled the account.
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21 Aug, 2020 by Stiliyan
It was great pleasure to work with Melody. She impress us with her knowledge about the subject and didn't disappoint us. At the end we get the desired results. Thank you!
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09 Feb, 2015 by Anastacio
I've had the pleasure of working with Ms. Beaman on several matters. She is passionate about justice and is always prepared to fight for her clients. I highly recommend her office.
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06 Feb, 2015 by Diego
Without Megan, I would not be here today. Megan represented me in an immigration matter. She truly cared about me and got the job done. I'd recommend her to anyone.
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13 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms Lepine has been and continues to be an advocate for me during my contested divorce. I feel that she works extremely hard for me and will provide excellent advice.
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22 May, 2015 by Lee
Amy has provided legal advice, litigation services, and has represented us both in court and in settlement negotiations. After her own thorough investigation of the facts, she is willing to go head to head against legal juggernauts and even government agencies. If settlement is not an option because opposing counsel is bent on litigating, she will zealously litigate for her clients; as she did for us. With her assistance we prevailed on a Writ of Mandate and Administrative Mandamus case (both in the appellate court and on remand) and had a breach of contract (in a related case) dismissed with prejudice even after the judge did not render a favorable decision. Amy is not your typical attorney, she is empathetic, altruistic, honest, affordable, and sharp.
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10 Feb, 2010 by Elena
I think Angela is the best lawyer in the city. Her staff are very helpful and professional. She was very knowledgeable in her profession and that's what made me feel confident about my case. I extremely recommend her to anyone who is looking for a good lawyer. Thank you Angela!!!
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16 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
I was extremely pleased with Angela and her team. She was knowledgeable and professional and made me feel comfortable and confident. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone.
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29 Apr, 2015 by Harout
I would recommend George to anyone in need of his services. He helped me out on my DUI case in 2013. My dui charge was dropped. I did not have to go through the hassle of attending dui classes, AA meeting, lengthy hours of community service, SR-22 inaurance. I went to court once on the day of my trail and my dui was dismissed. Did not even have to pay any court fees. Thanks George!
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07 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
George helped me with a felony charge. It only took 2 visits to court and we had a great result! They treat you very well, the office is amazing, very high class, definitely up there with the best in LA.
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03 Mar, 2018 by Will
Brenton Whitney Aitken Hands is a consummate Professional and worked incredibly long and hard to ensure the truth was set forth in a case in which our family member had been falsely charged and illegally detained in isolation in Orange County, California. As a result of Mr. Hands intelligent creation of a Motion to Dismiss the case the DA filed, then didn't even Oppose the Motion. As a result our loved one is free today to pursue justice in other venues and live his life far away from the criminals wearing badges in the OC. Thank you Brenton for your outstanding work and we highly recommend anyone seeking an expert in Police Misconduct and Civil Rights Violations to retain the services of Mr. Hands. They can't intimidate this guy and that's rare in the world today. Thank you Sir.
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28 Feb, 2018 by Michael b.
Amazing Attorney!!!!!!!! My family and I were advised Mr. Brenton Whitney Aitken Hands is a great and skilled top attorney. Correct!!! Mr. Hands saved my life from a 100 year to life conviction for a crime I did not commit. He put in countless sleepless nights on 24 hr shifts making timelines and reports and motions to dismiss fighting police and prosecutor misconduct. This is an amazing Attorney! His Intellectual skill set is unchallenged! Great Attorney! I Highly Recommend this Gentlemen! If you or a loved one is in need of Professional Representation please contact Mr. Hands of Newport Beach, CA. Thank you so much!
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02 Nov, 2015 by Tim
I can not even believe that Scott got my ticket dismissed. I was sure that I would get points, probably lose my license for a year or two and probably lose my job. Scott gave me a payment plan that I was able to afford. I have recommended him at least 10 times in the past few months. He made a life long client. Scott saved my a**! Thanks
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02 Apr, 2015 by Neal
I have had more issues with my driving record then I would like. I have gone to court myself and had different people represent me in court. Scott was the best, I didn't have to do anything. He kept me informed at all times. I wish I would have known him in my earlier years. I would recommend him. I was issued a citation for over 85 , the officer also stated he had me on Radar. I did have my radar detector on so I know I was not clocked at the speed , but I have tried to fight it on my own before and lost. He as able to get the case dismissed, I kept my license, added no points, and never had to go to court. The process was drug out for over a year and a half due to courts backed up and he did not charge me any extra for the extra time spent since that part was out of my control.
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12 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Great lawyer very knowledgable, professional and is a definite fighter in the courthouse!! He defended my case to the fullest. He responded very quickly to my questions and concerns. I felt I was In great hands and with the outcome of my case I sure was! I would recommend him to any friends, family, associates. Mr. Pointer is great-he would be the first I would call if I ever need representation in the future!!
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24 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Pointer is the real deal. He is the best rising attorney on the West Coast. He has all the talent and skills that makes him a legend in the making. His mentor Mr. Burris has developed this young man into being one of the best criminal defense/civil rights/litagation attorney's that California has to offer. Can you say the next Johnny Cochrane? If you want the best, then go with Mr. Pointer.
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22 Aug, 2023 by Delano
I contacted Devin over 2 years ago because it was some false information put in my credit report which was denying me of getting a place to live. When the credit bureau found out that I had a lawyer (Devin) guiding me in the right direction, the negative impact on my credit report was immediately removed. I went on with my life but Devin was still on the case. After 2 years had gone by I get a surprising email from Devin stating that the company was ready to settle. The nice amount of money that I received quickly after the settlement really helped me out a lot. Can’t thank Devin enough. He was my best choice.
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17 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I ran into Devin's profile while researching a legal case. Initially, I was apprehensive to approach Devin but once I had the first conversation with Devin, he not only exhibited a great subject matter expertise but also listened to me patiently and with a lot of compassion. He gave me a comprehensive legal advice and the final results were favorable. I would recommend Devin's services to any employee fearing a big corporation. Good luck!
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29 Apr, 2017 by Lemuel
I have consulted with Tigran on many cases and he always adds very valuable input. I trust his judgment and analytical skills and I always look forward to the advice he has to provide. Thank you Tigran.
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01 Mar, 2016 by David
Tigran Grigoryan is a gentle,polite, professional & great person, we had phone free conversation about 58 minutes, he couldn't take my case because I'm in different state, but he gave me very-very valuable advises, which I'll use them. Thank him again
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16 Feb, 2019 by Jose
Amir worked hard settle my case lost my job wrongfully as driver. He worked very hard , my family and I happy results . Thank you Mr Amir.
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06 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Amir helped me settle my case six figure. I couldn't be happier. Amir was knowledgeable and tough, I would highly recommend him for any employment case.
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12 Jan, 2022 by Jason
Very smart , patient and ,thorough. He doesn't miss a beat, walks circumspectly and turns over every stone. Always listens in for the long hall . Very pleased with his service. He's good!
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21 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Greg Peacock for the win! I appreciate Mr. Peacock for his level headed approach to my case. With years of experience, Greg understands the nuances of the system and the players involved to achieve the optimum result. Winning an excessive force case against the city of Newport Beach can be a stressful endeavor; Greg has a calm and focused demeanor that will put you at ease throughout the process. Most importantly ... we got PAID!
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27 Mar, 2016 by Paula boubary
Pamela has done work for me in the past doing our family trust. She also did a trust for a friend of mine as as well as a couple amendments to that trust. Although she works remotely now it was still easy to communicate and get the paperwork done that we needed recently. I will definitely be using her again in the future and recommend her to friends in need of help in her area.
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07 Oct, 2013 by Kim
Pamela is very knowledgeable, sincere and down to earth. She made me feel at ease and cared about when speaking with her. With Pamela's help and guidance in filling out my documents, making sure all were complete and ready to file, I wouldn't have been able to win my case. Her services were very professional, and I felt that she was truthful and nothing was held back. Her prices were perfect and didn't break my pocket book. I would highly recommend Pamela to anybody who needs legal help and representation. In fact, I already have.
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18 May, 2023 by Noune
I had the pleasure of working with Anoush Sarkisyan as my lawyer and I must say, she is a true professional and a motivated individual. She represented me with great passion and dedication, ensuring that my legal needs were met in an efficient and timely manner. Anoush is incredibly knowledgeable, detail-oriented and always kept me informed throughout the entire process. She called and emailed right away when there were updates. Unlike other lawyers I had talked to prior to hiring her, she actually listened and understood the importance of my case. Not only did Anoush make sure that I won the case, but she also ensured that I received the maximum judgement possible. I highly recommend Anoush.
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25 Sep, 2014 by Patricia
I just hired Anoush Sarkisyan for a second time to represent me in a civil matter. I first hired Ms. Sarkisyan for representation in a personal injury matter a couple of years back, and I was *very impressed with the tenacity in which Ms. Sarkisyan pursued the other side. They handled my case with some incompetence and negligence. Whereas other attorneys might have become frustrated and urged their client to take whatever offer was on the table (just to get on to the next case), Ms. Sarkisyan did just the opposite. She stuck with it, actually fought for me, and we walked away with a fair settlement. I had the exact polar experience with a high-profile attorney (who had handled big-named cases and was loaded with media notoriety). Believe me, one of those negative experiences is enough to sour your opinion of lawyers for a lifetime. But Ms. Sarkisyan gives me new hope. What I realize is Ms. Sarkisyan flies beneath the radar, works hard, and puts her clients first. Whereas most attorneys are too arrogant, or too wealthy to actually give a hoot about who they represent, Ms. Sarkisyan emanates the type of sincerity and class that lawyers used to exude generations ago. Simply put, Ms. Sarkisyan is very much a doer, not a talker. She is a rare gem in the legal minefield, and a credit to her profession.
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01 Mar, 2024 by Alexa maldonado-v
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25 Nov, 2019 by Youssouf moussa
Building of the professional lawyer,actually the lawyer who mean the world to me works there. So grateful to have her as a lawyer. Bless your heart Megan there is no words to describe her.
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08 May, 2018 by Anonymous
I actual love this attorney! He took a complicated situation and turned it into a win for me. He can take your facts and build an amazing case for you. Brilliant mind and really makes the whole stressful process of suing/being sued much more palatable.
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22 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
I am a client of John Schlaff, I've known him for about 2yrs. One of the things that impressed me the most about John is the fact that he genuinely cares about me!
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02 May, 2021 by Ari lewis
These two are the best litigators in the world.
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29 Mar, 2018 by M ben hellfire
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25 Oct, 2018 by Traci i santiago
I call Jenny for free legal advice about a car accident I had. Even know she could not represent me she did give me some helpful advice. I recommend anyone to give her a call
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01 Jul, 2018 by Rose r
Spoken with Jenny Tiu. She helped me out through her consultation. Even though I didnt qualify for her services I did really appreciate and recommend her services. Jenny listens from what stand point you are coming from and what help you need by just explaining all. In the later future if I do need her services I will contact her first for help.
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24 Oct, 2020 by Tom
Mr. Sullivan provided legal services to me in connection with my business. He handled the incorporation, and advised on several matters. I found his help to be practical and to-the-point. I have recommended him to my friends and associates.
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22 Nov, 2014 by Brenda
The first time I met Tim, I knew I was in good hands. Referred by a friend of mine. And she was right. Tim is great! I will be returning to Tim with any further questions or concerns. I may have. Thank you, Tim.
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23 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I agree with the previous review in every aspect. Sarah is a compassionate and a consummate professional. She knows the law better than any lawyer I know (and I'm a lawyer), and was always available when I needed her. She's less expensive than most and far more competent. I waited a year to get her to represent me and I would have waited more. I had an extremely litigious ex spouse and she remained unflappable and focused on getting what we needed to move forward. She didn't try to make me feel good. She was honest, realistic, and pragmatic. I have referred many friends to her and they have all been extremely happy. As a lawyer myself, I know who is effective and Sarah is a gem if you can get on her calendar.
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14 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Sarah Hoover was an impressive attorney as well as compassionate. She was not my first attorney or the least expensive hourly, but she was more knowledgeable and faster than my previous attorney and thus cost me less. She listened. She answered all my emails even on weekends. My first attorney had a lesser hourly rate but almost blew it when she failed at cross-examination and my legal fees were out of control. Sarah was calm and composed...this is who I wanted to represent me. She was a master at cross-examination and depositions...this was so important in my case. She was my attorney for 5 years and honestly, I saw no one better than Sarah in court & I never felt overbilled for the incredible amount of work she did for my case.
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01 Sep, 2022 by Fuerza latinas
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22 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Tommy is my go to business lawyer. He has advised my startup from the beginning like a co-founder. He is a great resource as outside general counsel whenever legal issues arise. He has helped us every step of the way with corporate formation/maintenance, contract drafting, internal policies, employment issues, intellectual property, tech and privacy issues, client contract negotiations, and overall business and legal strategy. We wouldn't be where we are without him. I highly recommend Tommy and Exponential Law to any entrepreneur who wants access to invaluable knowledge, guidance, and support in the legal aspects of starting and operating a business.
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17 May, 2016 by Anonymous
So having to find an attorney is always stressful, especially after you have been though a series of events that undoubtedly were painful enough that led you to now have to look for the right person to represent you. After living though an unpleasant and agonizing employment/labor experience where I knew I was violated, I had to relive my experience every time I made contact with an attorney to see how they would handle my case. After having screened several attorneys, all I can say is Chris Gaspard and his team really stood out from some of the best rated attorneys on AVVO. Chris was diligent, detailed, ethical, knowledgeable, honest and sincere. These are qualities I knew I needed if for any reason my case ended up in trial and my story needed to compel to a jury. I knew I wanted someone I could trust, and within minutes of meeting Chris I just knew I was in good hands. I look forward to working with him and know he and his team will treat my case as though it is their own. Find comfort in knowing Chris Gaspard can represent you better than anyone else in Orange County!
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17 Mar, 2016 by Rachel
First of all, his receptionist was friendly and helpful. Christ returned my call personally and quickly. He was friendly, helpful, honest, and offered me life-changing advice. I am truly thankful for Chis. He is an excellent attorney and would highly recommend him.
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26 Sep, 2019 by Terema
My name is Terema and 8 months ago my family and I were being displaced do to gentrification. Long story short, I was introduced to Micah through a wonderful organization called ACCE. Micah was asked to represent my family and he excepted the challenge, pro bono I might add. Micah was professional, transparent, knowledgeable and overall a pleasure to have on my team. Micah was diligent, persistent and most of all effective. Micah’s willingness to help my family, (free of charge) made the difference in our lives. Without Micah’s support my situation would’ve been a living hell to say the least. Ultimately, my family and I were displaced but because of Micah’s hard work, we were given the time and money to transition into a new chapter in our lives. I’m happy to report that my family and I are doing well and I’m the proud owner of my first home. To say Micah is a Blessing is not an understatement, it’s just one of the many words I’d use to describe him. Rest assure that if Micah is representing you or your loved ones, your in the best hands possible. Thanks Micah for ALL you do and I pray for your continued success. Terema
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20 Sep, 2019 by Daniel
Wow, what an honor it is to write this review. Without him knowing, I contacted several law firms who were publicly known in the area and they all failed. For example, they talked to me instead of with me. Another example is that I felt like another number in line, and as though they had more important cases than mine. Micah J. Clatterbaugh has been my go to ever since. I have had three instances where Micah assisted me. Each of those three cases, he allowed me to be the driver and respected my thoughts about the case. On one of the cases, we worked on it for over a year and we gathered all of the information needed. When it was time to sign the form, I decided to back out and I never felt like he pressured me to reconsider. On my second case, we spent at least 6 months working on it and when we were coming to the end of it, we both realized that addressing the issue in court was not in either of our interest anymore. On the third case, we spent just a few hours on and he said, "we don't have to meet up, just talk with me on the phone about it." He soon called my alleged person and followed up with an email; my alleged person fixed the issue on the spot. Having Micah as a resource gives me the strength and confidence to be a healthy human being. Knowing I have someone who knows the law, talks with me and not at me, is professional, friendly, is not a yes man but rather someone who will challenge you to dig deeper, is certainly someone that I would want to promote. Please contact Micah J. Clatterbaugh for your civil matters, Employment, labor, Landlord or tenant issues. I am a true customer of his. I have utilized his advise on just about all of his expertise.
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24 Feb, 2015 by Lee
I'll never be able to pay Julia Yoo and Eugene Iredale back. They listened to my story when no one would. When they agreed to represent me I was broken. Over time, I was pleased and satisfied that I had them fight for me. They helped me through the healing process and won a judgement at trial then settled the case for a larger sum. Julia is a civil rights expert and I have the most respect for her.
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14 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
I was a seventeen year old kid in trouble goig nowhere. When something bad happened to me, no one cared and no one stood up for me. Julia is the only lawyer who even listened to my story. It's been over seven years since she fought for me the way no one else ever did. Since the time she settle my case, I got my GED, never went back to jail, got enough money to take care of my family and I.
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07 Apr, 2017 by Marney
Setting up a nonprofit 501c3 is complicated, but Kieran made it understandable and logical. He was efficient, used plain English, was responsive, understanding, and thoughtful. He prepared all the documents to submit to the IRS-made it as easy as could be expected. I highly recommend working with Kieran and his team.
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14 Jul, 2017 by Doug
I've hired Carole on several matters in the past for counsel on ethics in attorney marketing. I own a lawyer SEO firm and Carole has been invaluable in helping me create contracts, disclaimers and operate within the boundaries of good ethics and the law. She has also helped me when I had questions on an attorney's behalf to ensure that they do not respond to a review improperly or put something on their website or marketing materials. If you are an attorney, or work with attorneys in the field of marketing, Carole is the authority in Southern California.
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11 Jan, 2013 by Steve
Heather was a pleasure to work with. She was responsive, knowledgeable and effective. She helped me resolve a litigation matter in California with minimal time and expense. I am a practicing attorney in New York and can be a harsh critic. Heather passed with flying colors.
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10 Jul, 2015 by Elena
I am a law school graduate that passed the bar but I don't actually practice. I am smart enough to see a valid claim but have had a difficult time explaining the facts of my case to most attorneyS and have been instantly dismissed. The few attorneys that have listened to all my facts have confirmed I have a valid claim but stated the facts are too difficult to prove, which is why I decided to litigate my claim on my own. I came across Lee Previant and called him to consult about my case. Lee took over an hour of his time to not only listen to my claim, but also discussed all options I should take. All other attorneys will only talk to me to assess my case and then dismiss me without ever telling me why they believe my case is too difficult to litigate. From the beginning of our conversation, it was clear that Lee does not practice the particular area of law I was looking for, but he still listened to my entire claim and spoke with me. This has been the toughest experience of my life, which is why I want to pursue litigation. But finding that attorneys are unresponsive has made it even more difficult, procedurally and emotionally. Lees guidance was an a huge value and honestly, I needed the emotional support.
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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:

  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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