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29 Aug, 2024 by Rachel
From the very beginning Matthew Clark made me comfortable with the unfortunate situation I was in and I knew I was in good hands. I have never been through a legal situation before and didn't know what to expect but Matt explained everything to me every step of the way. He was so kind and honest and respectful during a difficult time. He put in a lot of work into my case and paid attention to every detail and often times he would email me back after hours or take phone calls late and that shows that he cared about my peace of mind. The whole team was professional and thorough as well. I would recommend this law firm to everyone because we would not have had the outcome we did if it weren't for them. If you want to be represented by someone that treats you as good as a family member would, then Matthew Clark is who you should hire.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
I had the pleasure of working with Attorney Matthew Clark, and I cannot recommend him highly enough. From our very first consultation, it was clear that he possessed an exceptional level of expertise and dedication to his clients. Matthew’s professionalism and thorough understanding of the law were evident as he navigated my case with precision and care. He took the time to explain every step of the process, ensuring I felt informed and confident throughout. His ability to break down complex legal jargon into understandable terms was immensely helpful. What truly sets Matt apart is his unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. He approached my case with a strategic mindset, demonstrating a keen eye for detail and a proactive approach. His responsiveness and availability were also commendable; I never felt like just another client but rather a priority. In addition to his legal acumen, Matthew’s compassion and genuine concern for my well-being were palpable. He consistently provided not just legal support, but also reassurance and empathy during a stressful time. Thanks to Matt, I felt supported and confident throughout the legal process, and I am extremely pleased with the outcome he achieved for me. If you are in need of a highly skilled, dedicated, and compassionate attorney, look no further than Matthew Clark. He is truly a standout professional in his field.
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13 Jul, 2023 by Cassey
Matt & Emily went above and beyond My expectations! Worked every angle of My case to insure a great outcome. They Both took the time to get to know Me and My daughter as individuals. (This was unique & appreciated) Great job! Also a huge thanks for getting this all resolved in a timely manner!! Again Thank you both for all your hard work!
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04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
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08 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Paddison was not only thorough throughout the entirety of my case and court proceedings, but he was attentive and kind as well. He was always well prepared and willing and ready to go to bat for me.
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31 Jan, 2014 by Rebecca
I would recommend Gregory Paddison for legal services. He has been working with my family on an urgent matter and has been nothing but professional. My phone calls are always returned in a timely manner and he has been valuable throughout this process.
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15 Dec, 2015 by Richard
Very happy with this attorney always let's us know what is going on with the case and always returns phone calls back I know he will fight for us
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24 Sep, 2009 by Chad
I would highly reccommend Mr. Niskar to any of my friend or family in crimanal matters. He was very knowledgeable and always let me know what was happining and why.
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08 Sep, 2020 by Brittany
She is a absolute powerhouse, incredible in the court room! When it comes to family court which is where my case lies, I would never recommend anyone else but Amanda right here! It was a tough case I know my ex was good at lying so I was scared going into the process right away with that fact, there were so many unknowns but as soon as I had my consult I immediately felt at ease and knew she was the lawyer for my case. She is so helpful And knows her stuff, it didn’t matter how many questions we had she had answers whenever we needed them and at whatever time in the divorce process. She was also very emotionally supportive and invested which made the process so much easier even at times that were so hard I wanted to rip my hair out with the back and forth with my ex. It was a great feeling to know and feel like I was 100 percent supported in this way and like she had my back no matter what, i felt it beyond more than just the fact I was one of many clients. She helped win the case and even at times I felt like nothing was going right she would put me at ease and made whatever I wanted to happen possible, with that being said she never just told me what I wanted to hear she was very straight forward and knowledgeable to where I always felt better after I would talk to her that things would be ok, and they always were. There really isn’t enough that could be said about these Amanda, I would highly recommend her to anyone out there. She helped me in so many ways through this process and were so professional, knowledgeable, friendly and caring with my daughters best interest at heart which was just hands down amazing!
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31 Jan, 2016 by Suzanne
I was "laid off" from a position I held for 36 years after a new chairperson had been appointed. I believe the cultural differences were a major factor in my dismissal as well as financial considerations to replace me with a younger, inexperienced and lower salaried individual. Amanda and her associates were very responsive, friendly yet professional, and excellent in every aspect in handling my case.
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08 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Marko and his team are extremely knowledgeable, helpful, friendly, and hardworking. Mr. Marko instilled confidence in me and the results have been extraordinary.
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13 Jan, 2012 by Julie
Joel was professional, knowledgeable and continuously had open communication with me. His ability to connect with a jury is second to none. He doesn't just take cases that are guaranteed winners, he stands up for the rights of the little guy and is willing to go against the big guys. He is not afraid of titles. I recommend him 100 percent.
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06 Feb, 2011 by Joseph quetcowski
Great Lawyer with excellent knowledge of the law and the court system. Other attorneys often left me feeling in the dark about where my money was being spent, Her office provided me with the comfort and security that my hard-earned money was being used efficiently. She went the extra mile while other attorneys just showed me the door! Thanks to Loren & her entire staff for a truly pain-free experience!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! So kind and knowledgable! Shee led us through a tough time. Thanks.
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24 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Matthew was hired by my son as his attorney for a traffic ticket that he received in a suburb of Detroit. The violation was extremely absurd and we also felt that it was racially motivated. Matthew listened to our expressed concerns and jumped in immediately to substitute for our previous attorney. His knowledge of the law and expertise litigation skill is what led the city attorney to reduce the offense, from one of the highest moving violations to the lowest possible. We never stepped foot in court. Matthew communicates extremely well and is a force to be reckoned with. It is because of his defense, preparation and communication with that city, even prior to the scheduled court date, that led to my son's win. Thank you so much Matthew.
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18 Nov, 2014 by Pastor rick strawcutter
When I first met "Buck" around '92 he introduced himself to me and the potential lady client I had brought to him (via a third party recommendation) in the following manner. " My name is Hugh Davis, I know that you are Christians by religion and I respect that. However, I am not a Christian and additionally I have represented a good number of people who you as Christians might reasonably be expected to find are people you might not have a high opinion of ( he went on to describe some of the circumstances and alleged crimes ) I have also sued Richard Nixon, defended Angela Davis, and represented the American Communist Party. If you find that knowing any of this, makes you the least bit uncomfortable with me, I certainly would respect your feeling and respect your decision not to pursue this any further." I turned to the lady I brought to the meeting and we both in unison replied, "You are the guy we are looking for." Thus began a great experience with a brutally honest lawyer. Buck Davis is Great. Honest. Humble. I have recommended many clients to him without reservation.
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10 May, 2024 by Nadine brikho
Seva Law Firm has been a great help to me these past couple of years, especially Ibrahim! I really appreciate the time and dedication they took regarding my case.
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10 May, 2024 by Carol l
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10 May, 2024 by Erica mcfall
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10 May, 2024 by Nadine brikho
Seva Law Firm has been a great help to me these past couple of years, especially Ibrahim! I really appreciate the time and dedication they took regarding my case.
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10 May, 2024 by Carol l
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10 May, 2024 by Erica mcfall
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16 Jan, 2024 by Byrd dorgin
My family and I would like to thank Matt, Mickey, Janice, and your entire law firm for your dedication to my wife’s wrongful death case. We realize that we had the best law firm to successfully help us. We appreciate the obviously hard work and the efforts you put into it. You are a terrific team and I, along with my family, sincerely thank you for all you have done to settle this case. We would highly recommend using Sommers Schwartz! Ed
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14 Dec, 2023 by Camille moore
The lawyers at Sommers Schwartz helped my family with a medical malpractice case. Thank you Robert B. Sickels!
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24 Jun, 2022 by Shannan whitaker
I would VERY highly recommend Matt Curtis to anyone that needs the help of a top-notch attorney! After my husband was hit by a car and very seriously injured, fighting with insurance was the last thing we had energy for. Matt took on the task of fighting the insurance company and allowed us to focus on what was important, my husband's care. Matt treated us like we were family, always showing genuine concern for how my husband was doing while working tirelessly to help get us the benefits my husband deserved. I can honestly say that without Matt's fierce advocacy, overwhelming intelligence and commitment we could not have made it through the process.
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03 Dec, 2023 by Mike battistone
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12 Sep, 2022 by Tow vibes
John went above and beyond best patent law attorneys you can have!
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21 Nov, 2019 by Genevieve moore
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04 Nov, 2022 by Erica jackson
YAY! So excited for Attorney Bruce Rice!!!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Darqrisha carter
Man Mr.Schulman is the best lawyer ever I was nervous about my case he told me I have nothing to worry about because I’m beating this case and Thursday I beat my case and got my clean record back thank you again Mr.Schulman
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26 Sep, 2024 by Marcie bsharah
Very professional. Put me at ease, I would definitely recommend this office to anyone I know
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18 Sep, 2024 by Ilie bogde
Great law firm they talk to you keep you updated and took care of my case got dismissed thanks
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04 Oct, 2024 by Darqrisha carter
Man Mr.Schulman is the best lawyer ever I was nervous about my case he told me I have nothing to worry about because I’m beating this case and Thursday I beat my case and got my clean record back thank you again Mr.Schulman
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26 Sep, 2024 by Marcie bsharah
Very professional. Put me at ease, I would definitely recommend this office to anyone I know
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18 Sep, 2024 by Ilie bogde
Great law firm they talk to you keep you updated and took care of my case got dismissed thanks
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14 Aug, 2024 by Ben dover
Doesn’t answer phone or accept contingencies
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14 Aug, 2024 by David kyea
Mr Schaefer was on time and gave me time to send materials to look over before our meeting. He was thorough in his analysis of the information i provided and gave complete feedback on the possibilities of the outcome. Though we were not able to move forward toward working together, he gave me enough information to independently pursue arbitration on my own. Though it may and probably not be successful, Mr Schaefer was honest and did not try to sell me on his ability to succeed on his own terms. Thank you for your time.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Miami azul
Enrico did a great job. Airbnb suspended my account and I didn't know what to do since they didn't answer any message. I started searching and I saw a video of him. I called him and after 2 months my account was reactivated. Thank you Enrico
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20 Sep, 2024 by Lori tims
First and Foremost I would like to say thank you to the firm of Lee Steinberg, I did an online chat on Thanksgiving Day 2023 because I hired a small firm and I felt my case was not being handled I just kept getting shifted to paralegal’s 6 of them. Mr. Lee Steinberg called me immediately addressing my concerns and then I had the great experience of meeting Brian who signed me up and brought my case to the firm. Lee and his firm called to introduce themselves even his son Scott formally introduced himself over the phone. This immediately put my mind at ease, then Lee referred me to one of his awesome lawyers Christoper he and his paralegal Marcy have paid the utmost attention to my case along with his legal secretaries Kelly and Elise. Together combined they all make a great team and my legal matter is being handled properly. I would give them 5 ⭐️ stars! The firm of Lee Steinberg, they truly care about their clients and I would like to say thank you for caring and making the difference. Truly, L A
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23 Aug, 2024 by Lal mawi
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22 Aug, 2024 by Folksy forester
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04 Oct, 2024 by Laurice lowe
I was really feeling bad about having to file Bankruptcy at this point in my life. I worked with Mr. Metzen in the past. He reassured me that everything would be ok. He got to work immediately on my case. The process went smooth with him.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Brent keast
I was embarrassed to think about having to file for bankruptcy let alone not knowing how to do it the correct way by myself. After some research I knew bankruptcy was not something I could do by myself. Walter Metzen & Associates had the reviews I liked and after speaking with Walter I felt comfortable going forward with applying for chapter 13 with them. Walter made me aware of all the upside and downside of filling, what is required to file all the documents I would need to supply etc. Throughout the entire process if I had a question I would call and he answered or if I left a message it was returned when it was possible for Walter to call back, it was never the next day but within minutes or maybe hours. My case was granted and with the classes provided for money management through the courses I took I feel great. Thank you Walter.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Shanell conyers
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04 Oct, 2024 by Laurice lowe
I was really feeling bad about having to file Bankruptcy at this point in my life. I worked with Mr. Metzen in the past. He reassured me that everything would be ok. He got to work immediately on my case. The process went smooth with him.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Brent keast
I was embarrassed to think about having to file for bankruptcy let alone not knowing how to do it the correct way by myself. After some research I knew bankruptcy was not something I could do by myself. Walter Metzen & Associates had the reviews I liked and after speaking with Walter I felt comfortable going forward with applying for chapter 13 with them. Walter made me aware of all the upside and downside of filling, what is required to file all the documents I would need to supply etc. Throughout the entire process if I had a question I would call and he answered or if I left a message it was returned when it was possible for Walter to call back, it was never the next day but within minutes or maybe hours. My case was granted and with the classes provided for money management through the courses I took I feel great. Thank you Walter.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Shanell conyers
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28 Jun, 2017 by Kem
I have had the best of intentions to share the great experience I had dealing with Mr Swor and his team. After being aquitted, it has taken time to try and get my life back to what it used to be. That being said, as I continue to get back on my feet, I will forever be greatful. I retained Mr Willam Swor as my attorney in September 2014. On my way back home to Canada from a routine buisness trip, I was accused of smuggling cocain into America. This accusation if convicted, carried a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years. Needless to say this was the start of a 6 month nightmare that I would never have imagined and had the possibility of becoming a 10 year nightmare if convicted.  Mr.  Swor and his dedicated and brilliant legal team did everything within  their power, scouring the globe to find  evidence to connfirm my innocence.   During the whole legal process,  Mr Swor displayed empathy  through his actions  providing assurance, continuous communication  and support to my wife, two  young sons , extended family and friends.    In March of 2015, I was aquitted of all charges . I was able to go back home and be with my family.  Mr Swor and his team believed in me and helped me prove my innocence.  Thank you
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28 Oct, 2015 by David
Mr. Swor was my court appointed legal counsel. It was my great good fortune to have him represent me. I was kept apprised at all times of what was going on. He was always approachable and immediately responsive. Because of his efforts, the outcome was as good as I had hoped. Trust in him is indeed well placed.
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26 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I decided to visit family in a city nearby Detroit. When driving to their home, a police officer pulled me over claiming that she believed I was under the influence. I let her search my car and cooperated with her by conducting a field sobriety exam. To make a long story short, a crumb of marijuana, 5/100th of a gram was found in my car and I was arrested for OWI and Possession of Marijuana. I called Attorney William Swor, as soon as I got out of jail the next morning and he was very helpful on explaining and comforting me on the situation. Right before my pre-trial came up, Mr. Swor and I received a letter stating I violated Bond as well. So upon entering the courtroom, I had three charges making me unbelievable anxious. But after going to court, I had the OWI and my Bond Violation dismissed thanks to Mr. Swor. For the marijuana charge, I am currently on a drug/alcohol testing program, in which if I pass all the tests, the charge will be dismissed as well. Throughout the case, I was extremely nervous and anxious because I have never been arrested before, yet alone for what I believe was a ridiculous charge; 5/100th of a gram of marijuana. Yet, this attorney was there for me when I needed him, treated me as if I was family, and most importantly fought to get my charges dismissed. Overall, he is a very pleasant attorney and would recommend him to anyone that is facing a criminal charge.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Yeah I believe the first review, I'm in the midst of living that same nightmare right now, with the nice guy, but, scenario seems he's gave up on our case as well, always sending assistant to court and now we're getting court appointed results! Sad
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05 Aug, 2015 by Sherry
I would undoubtedly recommend Mr. Nasser. He is certainly very knowledgeable and one of the best lawyers that I have come across. He dealt with utmost precision and tactic. He was very responsive to all my concerns, kept me well informed about the possible strategies and was very compassionate. The verdict was in our favor and he was able to negotiate the best possible deal. I am truly thankful to him. I would definitely refer him to all my friends and family.
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03 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I am truly thankful for this opportunity to write this review on my attorney Mohammed Nasser. He certainly went above and beyond all of my expectations on my matter. Specifically, I retained him on my criminal matter and thanks to his tireless and unrelenting dedication, he was able to garner an unbelievable resolve, in what appeared to be a guaranteed felony conviction. He is an amazing individual and an extraordinary attorney. He was extremely professional, responsive and dedicated to my absolute satisfaction. I am very satisfied with his representation and his level expertise is second to none.
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11 Jan, 2021 by M b mahayni
Good
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07 Dec, 2020 by Prime gaming
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06 Nov, 2020 by Znz boat repair
Couldn't get past intake. Sensitive info. "Know it all assistant" answering person that suprisingly falsely claim to be knowledgeable yet lnot understand Michigan law when reffering ro statue of limitations. Furthermore they demanded case info without the safety of discretion and was very condoncending. I also studied enough law and business long enough to know when i spend the amount lf money i am. Only speaking to an attorney and then who that person endorses to cover specifics, is the ONLY method i take.
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22 Apr, 2022 by Sharyl douglas
Great attorney
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02 Mar, 2022 by Lunden englen
Marvin Barnett does an awesome job as an aggressive attorney. He fights for you when your in battle and with effort to win your case. He is educated and have several degrees in law. Very thorough and highly recommend
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10 Sep, 2020 by Chuck black
Best lawyer I've ever seen. He is extraordinarily talented.
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22 Apr, 2022 by Sharyl douglas
Great attorney
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02 Mar, 2022 by Lunden englen
Marvin Barnett does an awesome job as an aggressive attorney. He fights for you when your in battle and with effort to win your case. He is educated and have several degrees in law. Very thorough and highly recommend
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10 Sep, 2020 by Chuck black
Best lawyer I've ever seen. He is extraordinarily talented.
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26 Jul, 2023 by 28 towing
I’ve spoken to the receptionist twice, emailed twice and left one voicemail over a 4 week time span No one gets back to me
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25 Mar, 2021 by Krisjel mersi
Working with Don and his team @ Butzel Long has been an absolute pleasure. They've assisted me with legal and Trademark processes and made sure to keep me updated throughout every single step of the way!
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01 Jul, 2020 by Calethia binion
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26 Jul, 2023 by 28 towing
I’ve spoken to the receptionist twice, emailed twice and left one voicemail over a 4 week time span No one gets back to me
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25 Mar, 2021 by Krisjel mersi
Working with Don and his team @ Butzel Long has been an absolute pleasure. They've assisted me with legal and Trademark processes and made sure to keep me updated throughout every single step of the way!
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01 Jul, 2020 by Calethia binion
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26 Jul, 2023 by 28 towing
I’ve spoken to the receptionist twice, emailed twice and left one voicemail over a 4 week time span No one gets back to me
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25 Mar, 2021 by Krisjel mersi
Working with Don and his team @ Butzel Long has been an absolute pleasure. They've assisted me with legal and Trademark processes and made sure to keep me updated throughout every single step of the way!
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01 Jul, 2020 by Calethia binion
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26 Jul, 2023 by 28 towing
I’ve spoken to the receptionist twice, emailed twice and left one voicemail over a 4 week time span No one gets back to me
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25 Mar, 2021 by Krisjel mersi
Working with Don and his team @ Butzel Long has been an absolute pleasure. They've assisted me with legal and Trademark processes and made sure to keep me updated throughout every single step of the way!
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01 Jul, 2020 by Calethia binion
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26 Jul, 2023 by 28 towing
I’ve spoken to the receptionist twice, emailed twice and left one voicemail over a 4 week time span No one gets back to me
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25 Mar, 2021 by Krisjel mersi
Working with Don and his team @ Butzel Long has been an absolute pleasure. They've assisted me with legal and Trademark processes and made sure to keep me updated throughout every single step of the way!
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01 Jul, 2020 by Calethia binion
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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:

  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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