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17 Sep, 2024 by Bob wolfe
We were looking for an Estate Planner to develop a Revokable Family Trust which would help our heirs cope with our passing. We also needed assistance in a real estate transaction, selling a house to a daughter.
Michael J. Coakley, Attorney was extremely helpful developing our Family Trust. We met personally, working through the development. He was personable, understanding, and very easy to talk to.
Peter Turke, Attorney, helped us to successfully complete the sales of our home.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Antonio tarantino
I was very fortunate to receive help from Michael Coakley when inquiring about estate planning. Michael was very patient with any and all questions I had and helped guide me through the entire process from start to finish. If anyone is ever looking for an attorney to help them through the estate planning process, I couldn’t recommend Michael Coakley enough. Thank you!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Jared hoffmann
19 May, 2010 by Hannah
Paul made me feel important from the moment we met. He is dedicated to his job and his cases. I've known Paul for many years, and he has always been there for me when I needed him. He is a person you can rely on to listen and give informative feedback. I have recommended Paul to family and friends because I trust him as a lawyer and respect him as a person.
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05 Jan, 2010 by Paula
My discrimination situation took my job, my confidence and left me feeling frustrated and powerless. Paul guided me through the legal system with calm confidence, clear explanations, and wise council. His good relationship with other attorneys and legal professionals made the whole process very courteous and we were able to settle out of court.
Paul Kinne has my respect and my recommendation.
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24 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
Paul is a sincere, trustworthy human being. He is the type of man you'd be proud to call a good friend. As my attorney, he treated me with respect, was a good listener, extremely honorable and always carefully explained my options in the case. Paul patiently guided me through the process and brought about the best possible outcome. I would always turn to Paul for legal assistance.
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27 Jan, 2015 by Carl
I am the author of two books and I contact Mr. Erhard for help with a copyright problem. He was knowledgeable, understandable and helpful. He had a keen interest in my situation and made me feel at ease. I would highly recommend his services to anyone .
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27 Jan, 2015 by Mark
Mike has done legal work for me both personally and for each of my past three businesses over the last 15 years. He has helped me with employment related issues, purchasing and selling my companies, disputes, as well as general corporate legal work. He has always been there for me through both good times and bad. He is extremely responsive and thorough. He knows not only Wisconsin employment law almost better than anyone, but is also a great litigator/negotiator. His firm has also attracted several like minded individuals with legal skills and experience that compliment Mike's own expertise. Since I have worked with almost every Tier-1 law firm in Wisconsin over the years (in addition to some big firms in Chicago, New York, and Boston), I would say Mike is just as good (if not better) than any of those firms (or the best attorneys at those firms), and obviously his bill rates are much more reasonable! Mike is by far the best attorney I have ever worked with.
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27 Jan, 2015 by Patrick
In late 2014 I decided, along with two partners, to start a small business developing smartphone applications for Android and Apple devices. My partners and I decided to move from brainstorm to business after we realized we could be making money on our fun side coding projects. We quickly found out that having an idea for a business is much different than actually forming a business.
We approached Mike with questions on what it takes to form an LLC in Wisconsin. Mike was generous with his time, knowledge and advice. We found out we needed much more than the simple LLC documents. Over the course of a number of meetings, Mike and his knowledgeable and qualified attorneys walked us through all of the legal considerations involved in starting a business with partners.
Mike’s firm drafted our Operating Agreement, LLC paperwork and anything else that was involved with making our business official. Mike was available to answer any questions we had during the process and continues to be there for counsel during our opening months.
In our first year of business, we have found ourselves coming back to Mike again and again for advice on matters we would have never thought we would’ve needed an attorney for. Anything from contract drafting and negotiation to advice on how to handle our competition; Mike and the lawyers at his firm have been available and indispensable.
I would recommend Mike Erhard to anyone looking to start a small business. He and the attorneys who work for his firm have helped to make our first year smooth and successful.
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24 Dec, 2015 by Susan
Ray and his associates are very efficient and effective in all that I hired them for. They got me what I was looking for in back pay and damages they are wonderfl and caring soles. You would be very happy and satisfied hiring these gifted lawyers.
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23 Dec, 2015 by Lucy
Ray Clausen was interested in my case and understood the constitutional principle behind the"Good Fight." I found Ray to be caring and totally committed to justice. He was willing to listen to me and he took the time to fully understand the case at hand. Mr Clausen also understood that this was not a lawsuit that I wanted and both he and myself sought to avoid. Mr Clausen was extremely supportive and I appreciate his professionalism, integrity and commitment to the law and his clients. I would highly recommend the law firm of Clausen and Severson to anyone in need of legal services.
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18 Dec, 2015 by Richard
Ray was tireless in pursuing damages from the driver of a car that hit my bike and caused me long-term spinal injury. At every stage of the lengthy proceedings he consulted with me and worked hard to achieve a fair out-of-court settlement.
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07 Dec, 2010 by Marilyn
I have worked closely with Meg since early 2008. She has proactively ensured that our company is compliant regarding our handbook, meeting privacy and security policies, and the myriad other items that fall under the scope of HR. Her recommendations are balanced and reasonable and take into account responsibilities on the part of the employer as well as the employee. Meg has always responded to our requests for advice with thorough, probing questions to ensure that she has a solid understanding of the issue we are dealing with. Her advice is always carefully considered and to the point. Our company is truly confident that our trust in Meg's competencies is not misplaced.
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30 Nov, 2010 by Sue
Meg has worked with our organization for over ten years regarding issues that involve employment law. Meg is knowledgeable, thorough, responsive and always provides sound advice. It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Meg.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Ongo goblogian
Nick lives in the pocket, and has an extremely quick and sharp mind. He understands people's situations as if they where happening to him. Could not recommend him more.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Joyce rolnick
The best lawyer I have ever encountered, Nick is great
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12 Feb, 2015 by Raqim
Ms./Mrs. Mcgillivray was one of a battery of attorneys that represented is in a class action lawsui from 2000 to 2005. She and attorney Howard B. EISENBERG were the most responsive and effective in litigation and informing us. She is steadfast, a team player and fights for her clients.
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04 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Attorney Sparer is highly ethical, highly conscientious, and possesses complete integrity. He is knowledgeable, efficient, and has outstanding people skills. I have used his legal services in several real estate transactions and in landlord/tenant law matters. I am planning to utilize his expertise in my future business endeavor as well. I highly recommend him.
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07 Feb, 2020 by Michelle
I highly recommend this Attorney. I worked with Felice on creating a Will for myself and had a lot of questions about it. She was very patient with all of my questions and explained everything in a way that I could easily understand. She went above and beyond to make sure everything was as I wanted it to be. I definitely trust her with any future legal needs I may have.
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03 Aug, 2012 by J
Andrea is very knowledgeable in employment discrimination matters. She is PROMPT in returning emails and phone calls. More importantly, at the hearing I felt Andrea delivered her arguments with great passion, zealousness and confidence. Not having the decision yet, regardless, I believe she surpassed my expectations. Because of her unquestioned commitment and aggressive nature she handled my case I strongly recommend this attorney.
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02 May, 2024 by Kathleen helping hands
Dear Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. and Mr. Robert Lightfoot,
I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the exceptional legal services provided by Mr. Robert Lightfoot of Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. Mr. Lightfoot has proven to be not only an exceptional attorney but also a compassionate advocate for healthcare practices facing mistreatment and challenging circumstances.
In my darkest and most challenging times, Mr. Lightfoot emerged as a beacon of hope and support for both my family and my clients. His unwavering dedication and commitment to assisting healthcare facilities navigate complex situations within the industry have been nothing short of remarkable. Even in the face of adversity and tough opposition, Mr. Lightfoot stood by my side, believing in my vision to provide quality care to the elderly and fighting tirelessly on my behalf.
Healthcare is not just a profession for me; it is my life's passion. Unfortunately, I found myself in a situation where my ability to operate and serve my community was unjustly stripped away. It was during this dark and trying period that Mr. Lightfoot's expertise and unwavering support shone the brightest. His guidance, advocacy, and legal acumen have been instrumental in helping me navigate through challenging legal obstacles and emerge stronger on the other side.
I am beyond grateful for Mr. Lightfoot's hard work, dedication, and genuine care for his clients. His compassion and commitment to justice have been a true blessing in my life, and I thank God for guiding me to a lawyer who not only understands the intricacies of healthcare law but also genuinely cares about the well-being of his clients.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. and Mr. Robert Lightfoot to anyone in need of legal representation in the healthcare industry. Their professionalism, expertise, and empathetic approach set them apart as a truly exceptional legal team. Thank you, Mr. Lightfoot, for being a guiding light in my darkest hours.
Warm regards,
Shatara J.
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17 Dec, 2022 by Craig james
Joe Bugni is a good man. Highly recommend.
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18 Feb, 2020 by Segway jeremy ryan
Joe Bugni and Peter Moyers did an excellent job for me. They really poured their heart into all of the motions and showed immense attention to the case. They were also available to talk to regularly. I will admit there is a stigma around the term "Public Defenders" but, at least for Joe and Peter (I can't speak for the other attorneys as I didn't work with them) this stigma was strongly defied. Looking back I feel representation was comparable and maybe even exceeded that which could have been acquired with a private attorney. It is evident that this is a passion not just a career. All other staff (office, interns, social workers) had the same quality of service and care as well. If you're in a position where you cannot afford a private attorney you've lucked out here.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Kayla dubois
We had a fantastic experience working with Lotfi Legal regarding our immigration process! I came to our initial consultation with a complex situation and many questions after having done my own extensive research. Atty Fuchs found a path through to meet our goals that we didn't realize was available to us, which ultimately saved us many years and thousands of dollars compared to paths other attorneys were recommending. We worked together to file our applications quickly and were lucky to have full resolution of our case in a short timeframe. We couldn't be more grateful! It can be difficult to know who to trust regarding immigrations concerns and I cannot recommend Lotfi enough.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Mozhdeh fallahazad
Shabnam Lotfi and her team appeared in our lives when all hope seemed lost for our Petition for Alien Relative case. They expertly guided us through a seemingly complex process, providing clear explanations and personalized attention. Their extensive knowledge, keen insight, and compassionate heart made all the difference. Thanks to their exceptional service, we now have high hopes of reuniting with our loved ones soon.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Anahid eht
All I could ask for. Thank you Shabnam and the amazing team. Highly recommended.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Kayla dubois
We had a fantastic experience working with Lotfi Legal regarding our immigration process! I came to our initial consultation with a complex situation and many questions after having done my own extensive research. Atty Fuchs found a path through to meet our goals that we didn't realize was available to us, which ultimately saved us many years and thousands of dollars compared to paths other attorneys were recommending. We worked together to file our applications quickly and were lucky to have full resolution of our case in a short timeframe. We couldn't be more grateful! It can be difficult to know who to trust regarding immigrations concerns and I cannot recommend Lotfi enough.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Mozhdeh fallahazad
Shabnam Lotfi and her team appeared in our lives when all hope seemed lost for our Petition for Alien Relative case. They expertly guided us through a seemingly complex process, providing clear explanations and personalized attention. Their extensive knowledge, keen insight, and compassionate heart made all the difference. Thanks to their exceptional service, we now have high hopes of reuniting with our loved ones soon.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Anahid eht
All I could ask for. Thank you Shabnam and the amazing team. Highly recommended.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Jane lee
Nikki Yang is a very very good attorney. I call her and she always answer my questions and response very quickly. She is very knowledgeable and intelligent and helped me a lot on my divorce case. I think she is a very trustful attorney and her ability to fight is so beyond my expectations. With her you will be in good hands. Strongly recommend her and you will not regret having her by your side.
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12 May, 2024 by Tatiana houston
Highly recommend Brent, very time-efficient, accommodating, and overall a good attorney. He helped me win a civil lawsuit between my landlord and I. Thank you all.
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04 Jan, 2024 by Tyler pankow
Very thankful for the legal counsel Brent has provided
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01 Jul, 2024 by Alexandra huron
Ms. Fletcher and her team were a dream to work with. She represented me well, communicated quickly, and was very detailed oriented. I would highly recommend Friedrich & Fletcher for your legal needs!
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15 Feb, 2024 by Cory kaschub
Highly recommend Attorney Fletcher!! Extremely knowledgeable! Very personable! Fair prices! Helpful beyond words!
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14 Feb, 2024 by Anthony statz
10 Sep, 2024 by Greg hammond
I cannot recommend this firm highly enough. I have personally worked with both Joe Bugni and Marcus Berghahn, and they have exceeded all expectations. They are highly knowledgeable and effective, fighting for outcomes that would not have been possible otherwise.
Beyond their legal expertise and tenacity, Joe and Marcus have shown remarkable compassion and genuine care for our situation. These are top-notch lawyers and exceptional human beings. I am profoundly grateful to both of them!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Alene bridges
Joe Bugni is amazing! Trinity as well. I'm so thankful for meeting such wonderful people and finding thee BEST lawyer around. Thank you Joe!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Marlo mall
By far the best!! This law firm is honestly amazing!! Joseph Bugni and paralegal Trinity are beyond fantastic at their jobs. They care more about helping people than the money, and it clearly shows. I promise you'll never go to another firm again!
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30 Nov, 2015 by Jacob
My wife and I hired Carol Brown to complete a claim against a car dealer for misrepresentation and faulty product. She fully prevailed and we were able to recoup costs and damages. Our plans are to hire her again to represent us should we face a similar negative situation. Good attorney, and a very wonderful person as well.
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17 Nov, 2015 by Maureen
My husband and I recently learned about this AVVO site from a friend and we are using it to rate Attorney Brown for the work she has accomplished on our behalf. She is the second attorney we have used for our small real estate business and without question has the best skills and approach for our needs. Because we are not attorneys, we need to have confidence that those we hire have the highest integrity and abilities to help us. And Ms. Brown certainly did! She assisted us with two difficult real estate acquisitions and one trade. Her knowledge of contracts and land law was far beyond our previous attorney’s abilities. We can suggest highly to others to use Attorney Brown when navigating difficult contracts related to land or business. Two thumbs up from us!
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09 Nov, 2015 by Michael
Carol took on a difficult mediation case for me involving a matter that faced a strong divide on both sides. She treated us all very humanly and used her competent skills to move us all to a suitable solution. I recommend this attorney.
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15 May, 2024 by Erin chisman
Bob, Noah, and the rest of the team have done truly top-notch work for our family. I give them the highest recommendation to anyone looking for an attorney.
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14 May, 2024 by Marc seals
My family has used Kasieta Legal Group for at least twenty years. We are always impressed by the professionalism and care that we have received. I cannot recommend them highly enough!
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09 May, 2024 by Life is good
Noah R. was extremely helpful. He took the time to explain everything to me in detail. He provided lots of useful information.
Thank you Noah!
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19 Apr, 2024 by J kepske
John went above and beyond when helping me through this process after my accident and helped me get to an outcome that was far beyond what I had expected. If anyone is looking for a hard working, dedicated and honest lawyer, call John Raihala immediately. His team is truly amazing.
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20 Sep, 2019 by Clyde miner
Good Lawyers
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24 May, 2018 by Mini pick r.m.
Quiero saludarte amigo
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16 Nov, 2023 by Peter middleton ii
23 Aug, 2023 by Joe wilke
Best Attorney i've ever had
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07 Nov, 2021 by Terri jo terbilcox
24 Oct, 2023 by Karla zehms
The attorneys at Balisle Family Law are exceptionally professional. I felt heard and believe that the positive outcome would not have been possible without the strategies we employed together through candid conversations.
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21 Sep, 2022 by Heidi berka
Attorney Linda Balisle, Attorney Lindsey Cobbe and the rest of the team at Balisle Family Law Legal Counsel. S.C. are simply the best in the State. My divorce case was a particularly difficult one and had many complicated components to it. From the beginning Linda and Lindsey were steadfast advocates. They were professional, knowledgeable and efficient. They always answered my questions and made sure I understood both the procedure and the law. I was completely satisfied with their representation of me and would recommend to anyone needing a family law attorney.
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10 May, 2022 by Patricia glass
03 Jan, 2024 by Randall ruenger
Explained things so great and put my mind to ease!!!
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24 Oct, 2023 by John denboer
Terrible and unethical service. Defrauded myself and my family. Tried to bill for services without contract. Attempted to resolve situation professionally, but Mr. Stewart engaged in yelling and threatening behavior. Ultimately was forced to file an official grievance with the WI Office of Lawyer Regulation.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Calvertron
Walt is a pleasure to deal with, I hired him after my father passed to deal with the estate, best decision I ever made!
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11 Aug, 2024 by Patricia bodden
Isaac Huettl assisted me with a legal issue. He and his team were kind, efficient and answered all my questions. They responded quickly to any of my calls.
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13 May, 2024 by Ethan koudelka
After being represented by Riley Leonard at Gingras, Thomsen & Wachs, I can confidently say that I felt well informed every step of the way. They were incredibly transparent and fought hard on my behalf. I found them to be very knowledgeable and working with them was a pleasure. In the future should I need to, I would absolutely choose them again.
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06 May, 2024 by Patricia peterson
18 Feb, 2023 by Hori dun
04 Mar, 2021 by Matthew smith
16 Apr, 2019 by Niabi schmaltz
22 Aug, 2022 by Wendy
Victor is very knowledgeable about the employment laws in WI, very willing to assist.
Definitely one of the best attorneys I have ever worked with! And he helped me win my case so he should really receive 10 stars!
I am sure I would have lost based on the antics of the judge assigned to my case, who was rude and was only focused on one of the aspects vs looking at the big picture.
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31 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Called, asked if he does unemployment consults. He said he does, but that he charges $50 because of the influx of recent calls. He asked me if I knew how many people called him daily and how I got his number (where else but the internet, where he advertises his services?). He seemed uninterested in hearing about my situation despite the fact I was trying (but was repeatedly interrupted) to tell him the $50 fee would be fine. He refused, despite my willingness, to discuss anything over the phone, unless I provide documents via text. I gave him my number, he texted me some required paperwork but then there was a contract to sign. Fair. That's why I'm giving two stars and not one. Because while he was rude, he was open to phone consultation after providing documents. He also gave me a series of links from articles he writes on the current unemployment issues. It's hard to reconcile his vast interest in this issue online, with the curt, borderline-rude, on-phone persona you get when you do call.
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27 Jun, 2018 by Roger
Hired him for a friend with incredible results! The man is honest and does his best! If you have no case don’t bother him find another loser like yourself to represent you!
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22 Jun, 2017 by Jose
I have hired Steve Porter twice and we prevailed both cases. I watched as he fought to make sure I walked out with the best deal. We had a case that had plenty of proof and he had the opportunity to advise me to not settle, which would have only meant more money for him and a long wait for me but he was honest and chose what was in my best interest. I respect that. If you want someone that will fight hard for your rights and to make you whole again - this is the attorney you should hire.
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03 Jan, 2016 by John
Smooth talker to get your money, then disappears for weeks or months with a lot of excuses and indifference. He should not be practicing any type of law!!!
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20 Jul, 2023 by Anna carlson
Atty. Roman did not represent me competently and diligently and did not earn her fee. Atty. Roman committed a criminal act in my presence; I rode with her to my first court hearing and she hit a parked car while she was parking then proceeded to say as we were walking away “I’m going to
Pretend like I didn’t do that” I would never have assumed a lawyer could be capable of such disregard and shameless conduct. She said things to me such as “Please just sign the document and stop trying to add or change language” I never received a thank you, any inquires if was satisfied with services rendered etc. At no point in time did I feel like Attorney Roman negotiated in my name or on my behalf, advise or represent me efficiently in court, and before the GAL, communicate effetely, proficiently, or professionally, conduct research into the information provided to her and analyze provided information, nor did she interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for me to understand or advocate for me whatsoever.
Attorney Roman certainly had no problem taking my money and, in my opinion, charging me for the same thing over and over i.e., going over the same emails and attached documents she had previously charged me for going over, she also had no problem charging me for all the "work" she had to do after her self-admitted mistake when she mis informed me during our settlement discussions. I had to pay Attorney Roman thousands of dollars, depleting my savings for email correspondences, phone calls and mistakes.
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01 Jul, 2019 by Tommy lancaster
22 Jul, 2024 by Zak k
Monroe Law Office listened to my issue and got me a settlement I was happy with. They are very diplomatic and realistic with outcomes which sets clear expectations going into the case. Very professional and pleasant to work with.
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26 Jul, 2023 by Kristina “tina” fox
Receptionist was very rude.
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17 Jul, 2019 by Charles
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Civil Rights Lawyer Can Do for You
A civil rights lawyer focuses on protecting individuals whose constitutional rights have been violated by government authorities, employers, or private organizations. These lawyers specialize in cases involving discrimination, police misconduct, freedom of speech, and other fundamental rights guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution and civil rights laws, such as the Civil Rights Act, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Fair Housing Act.
Whether you've been discriminated against due to race, gender, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics, or you believe your civil rights have been violated by a government entity, a civil rights lawyer can help you seek justice, hold wrongdoers accountable, and secure compensation for any harm you've suffered.
When Should I Hire a Civil Rights Lawyer?
You should hire a civil rights lawyer when your constitutional rights or other protected rights have been violated, and you need legal assistance to seek justice. Some key situations in which you may need a civil rights lawyer include:
- Employment discrimination: If you have faced discrimination at work based on race, gender, age, religion, national origin, or disability, a civil rights lawyer can help you file claims under laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Police misconduct or brutality: If you were the victim of police brutality, unlawful arrest, racial profiling, or other forms of misconduct, a lawyer can help you file a lawsuit for violations of your Fourth and Fourteenth Amendment rights.
- Freedom of speech or assembly violations: If your First Amendment rights to free speech or peaceful assembly have been restricted by the government, a civil rights lawyer can represent you in challenging the violation.
- Housing discrimination: If you’ve been denied housing or faced unfair treatment due to your race, ethnicity, gender, or disability, a lawyer can help you file a complaint under the Fair Housing Act.
- Voter rights violations: If you believe your right to vote has been unfairly suppressed or you’ve faced discrimination in the voting process, a civil rights lawyer can help you fight for your rights.
- Disability rights violations: If you’ve faced discrimination in accessing public spaces, employment, or services due to a disability, a lawyer can help enforce your rights under the ADA.
- LGBTQ+ rights violations: If you've experienced discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in employment, housing, or public services, a civil rights lawyer can help you pursue legal remedies.
Hiring a lawyer early on can help you understand your legal options and build a strong case to protect your rights.
What Does a Civil Rights Lawyer Do?
A civil rights lawyer provides legal representation and advocacy to individuals whose rights have been violated. Their work can include:
- Filing lawsuits: A civil rights lawyer can represent you in court by filing lawsuits against individuals, businesses, or government entities that violated your rights.
- Advocating for policy changes: Civil rights lawyers often engage in advocacy work, pushing for reforms to laws and policies that infringe upon people's rights.
- Representing clients in discrimination claims: These lawyers help clients file claims with federal or state agencies, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
- Negotiating settlements: In many cases, civil rights lawyers work to negotiate settlements for their clients before a case goes to trial, securing compensation for damages such as lost wages, emotional distress, or legal fees.
- Defending freedom of expression: Lawyers may represent clients whose rights to free speech, assembly, or protest were violated by government restrictions or other actions.
- Handling appeals: If your civil rights case has been decided but you wish to appeal the ruling, a civil rights lawyer can help you through the appeals process.
How Are Civil Rights Lawyers Paid?
Civil rights lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Contingency fee: Many civil rights lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. Their fee is typically a percentage (usually 25% to 40%) of the settlement or damages awarded.
- Hourly rate: For cases that require extensive legal research or litigation, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Pro bono or sliding scale: Some civil rights lawyers or organizations may work on a pro bono (free) basis or use a sliding fee scale for clients who cannot afford typical legal fees.
- Flat fee: In specific cases, a lawyer may charge a flat fee for services like drafting legal documents or filing a complaint.
It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to avoid unexpected costs.
How Much Does a Civil Rights Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a civil rights lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of legal issue. General cost estimates include:
- Contingency fee cases: For cases taken on a contingency basis, the lawyer’s fee will typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or judgment awarded.
- Hourly rates: Many civil rights lawyers charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For straightforward legal tasks, such as filing a complaint with a government agency or drafting legal documents, flat fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Pro bono work: Some civil rights lawyers or nonprofit organizations provide free legal representation in certain cases involving important constitutional or civil rights issues.
Be sure to ask for a detailed estimate of costs during your consultation to understand the financial commitment involved.
Top Questions to Ask a Civil Rights Lawyer
Before hiring a civil rights lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with civil rights cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s employment discrimination, police misconduct, or First Amendment violations. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer works on a contingency fee basis, hourly rate, or flat fee, and ask for an estimate of the total cost of your case. -
What is the likelihood of success for my case?
Ask the lawyer to provide an honest assessment of your case, including the strengths, weaknesses, and potential outcomes. -
Have you handled cases like mine before?
Inquire about the lawyer’s experience in cases with similar facts and legal issues. -
What is the timeline for resolving my case?
While exact timelines can vary, ask for an estimate of how long your case may take, from filing to resolution. -
Will you handle my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may work on parts of your case, so it’s important to know who will handle your legal matter directly.
How to Check the Credibility of a Civil Rights Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable civil rights lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for specific civil rights experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in civil rights law and have a history of handling cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can speak to their experience with civil rights cases.
- Check for advocacy or nonprofit work: Lawyers involved with civil rights organizations, such as the ACLU or NAACP Legal Defense Fund, may have a strong reputation in the civil rights legal community.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a civil rights lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- A detailed account of the violation: Provide a written summary of the events, including dates, times, and any people involved in the violation of your rights.
- Documentation and evidence: Bring any supporting documentation, such as emails, letters, photos, or video footage that may help prove the violation of your rights.
- Records of complaints or reports: If you’ve filed complaints with a government agency or reported the violation, bring copies of those documents.
- List of questions: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes of your case.
- Information on damages or harm: Be prepared to discuss the harm you’ve suffered due to the violation, such as emotional distress, financial loss, or physical injury.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and get the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
