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05 Sep, 2024 by Enjoli phillips
Star was amazing! She kept me updated, answered all my questions, and was very patient. My case was handled swiftly and efficiently.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Brian seal
19 Aug, 2024 by Michelle auzenne
It is hard for me to put into words the service and then later family that I got from Ben Thomas. I was scared didn’t know what to do. How was I going to take on a big insurance company. But being reassured me he had my back and normally I don’t take people for the word but I did with him and he showed up and showed out and was perfect relieve all the stress and I will forever consider him a friend. I don’t say this about many people but I honestly trust him. M Auzenne
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05 Sep, 2024 by Enjoli phillips
Star was amazing! She kept me updated, answered all my questions, and was very patient. My case was handled swiftly and efficiently.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Brian seal
19 Aug, 2024 by Michelle auzenne
It is hard for me to put into words the service and then later family that I got from Ben Thomas. I was scared didn’t know what to do. How was I going to take on a big insurance company. But being reassured me he had my back and normally I don’t take people for the word but I did with him and he showed up and showed out and was perfect relieve all the stress and I will forever consider him a friend. I don’t say this about many people but I honestly trust him. M Auzenne
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05 Sep, 2024 by Enjoli phillips
Star was amazing! She kept me updated, answered all my questions, and was very patient. My case was handled swiftly and efficiently.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Brian seal
19 Aug, 2024 by Michelle auzenne
It is hard for me to put into words the service and then later family that I got from Ben Thomas. I was scared didn’t know what to do. How was I going to take on a big insurance company. But being reassured me he had my back and normally I don’t take people for the word but I did with him and he showed up and showed out and was perfect relieve all the stress and I will forever consider him a friend. I don’t say this about many people but I honestly trust him. M Auzenne
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05 Sep, 2024 by Enjoli phillips
Star was amazing! She kept me updated, answered all my questions, and was very patient. My case was handled swiftly and efficiently.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Brian seal
19 Aug, 2024 by Michelle auzenne
It is hard for me to put into words the service and then later family that I got from Ben Thomas. I was scared didn’t know what to do. How was I going to take on a big insurance company. But being reassured me he had my back and normally I don’t take people for the word but I did with him and he showed up and showed out and was perfect relieve all the stress and I will forever consider him a friend. I don’t say this about many people but I honestly trust him. M Auzenne
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05 Sep, 2024 by Enjoli phillips
Star was amazing! She kept me updated, answered all my questions, and was very patient. My case was handled swiftly and efficiently.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Brian seal
19 Aug, 2024 by Michelle auzenne
It is hard for me to put into words the service and then later family that I got from Ben Thomas. I was scared didn’t know what to do. How was I going to take on a big insurance company. But being reassured me he had my back and normally I don’t take people for the word but I did with him and he showed up and showed out and was perfect relieve all the stress and I will forever consider him a friend. I don’t say this about many people but I honestly trust him. M Auzenne
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05 Sep, 2024 by Enjoli phillips
Star was amazing! She kept me updated, answered all my questions, and was very patient. My case was handled swiftly and efficiently.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Brian seal
19 Aug, 2024 by Michelle auzenne
It is hard for me to put into words the service and then later family that I got from Ben Thomas. I was scared didn’t know what to do. How was I going to take on a big insurance company. But being reassured me he had my back and normally I don’t take people for the word but I did with him and he showed up and showed out and was perfect relieve all the stress and I will forever consider him a friend. I don’t say this about many people but I honestly trust him. M Auzenne
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05 Sep, 2024 by Enjoli phillips
Star was amazing! She kept me updated, answered all my questions, and was very patient. My case was handled swiftly and efficiently.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Brian seal
19 Aug, 2024 by Michelle auzenne
It is hard for me to put into words the service and then later family that I got from Ben Thomas. I was scared didn’t know what to do. How was I going to take on a big insurance company. But being reassured me he had my back and normally I don’t take people for the word but I did with him and he showed up and showed out and was perfect relieve all the stress and I will forever consider him a friend. I don’t say this about many people but I honestly trust him. M Auzenne
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05 Sep, 2024 by Enjoli phillips
Star was amazing! She kept me updated, answered all my questions, and was very patient. My case was handled swiftly and efficiently.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Brian seal
19 Aug, 2024 by Michelle auzenne
It is hard for me to put into words the service and then later family that I got from Ben Thomas. I was scared didn’t know what to do. How was I going to take on a big insurance company. But being reassured me he had my back and normally I don’t take people for the word but I did with him and he showed up and showed out and was perfect relieve all the stress and I will forever consider him a friend. I don’t say this about many people but I honestly trust him. M Auzenne
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05 Sep, 2024 by Enjoli phillips
Star was amazing! She kept me updated, answered all my questions, and was very patient. My case was handled swiftly and efficiently.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Brian seal
19 Aug, 2024 by Michelle auzenne
It is hard for me to put into words the service and then later family that I got from Ben Thomas. I was scared didn’t know what to do. How was I going to take on a big insurance company. But being reassured me he had my back and normally I don’t take people for the word but I did with him and he showed up and showed out and was perfect relieve all the stress and I will forever consider him a friend. I don’t say this about many people but I honestly trust him. M Auzenne
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05 Sep, 2024 by Enjoli phillips
Star was amazing! She kept me updated, answered all my questions, and was very patient. My case was handled swiftly and efficiently.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Brian seal
19 Aug, 2024 by Michelle auzenne
It is hard for me to put into words the service and then later family that I got from Ben Thomas. I was scared didn’t know what to do. How was I going to take on a big insurance company. But being reassured me he had my back and normally I don’t take people for the word but I did with him and he showed up and showed out and was perfect relieve all the stress and I will forever consider him a friend. I don’t say this about many people but I honestly trust him. M Auzenne
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05 Sep, 2024 by Enjoli phillips
Star was amazing! She kept me updated, answered all my questions, and was very patient. My case was handled swiftly and efficiently.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Brian seal
19 Aug, 2024 by Michelle auzenne
It is hard for me to put into words the service and then later family that I got from Ben Thomas. I was scared didn’t know what to do. How was I going to take on a big insurance company. But being reassured me he had my back and normally I don’t take people for the word but I did with him and he showed up and showed out and was perfect relieve all the stress and I will forever consider him a friend. I don’t say this about many people but I honestly trust him. M Auzenne
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26 Sep, 2024 by Edlisha johnson
The best law office ever!! Always shows they care!! Feels like family…. Mr. Cueria always goes above and beyond to get what you deserve!! Most important, FAIR!!!!
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25 Sep, 2024 by Chris davis
Great exprience very knowledgable and understanding will recomend to family and friends.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Terri huckabee
I am grateful for the help
I received with my case, especially when it seemed like no one else cared or thought it was worth their time. The Chopin Law Firm fought long and hard so that I could get some financial closure. They always made me feel like my unfortunate injury that occurred while I was visiting New Orleans was important and mattered. I highly recommend this firm because you can trust that they actually care and want to help.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Enjoli phillips
Star was amazing! She kept me updated, answered all my questions, and was very patient. My case was handled swiftly and efficiently.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Michelle auzenne
It is hard for me to put into words the service and then later family that I got from Ben Thomas. I was scared didn’t know what to do. How was I going to take on a big insurance company. But being reassured me he had my back and normally I don’t take people for the word but I did with him and he showed up and showed out and was perfect relieve all the stress and I will forever consider him a friend. I don’t say this about many people but I honestly trust him. M Auzenne
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19 Aug, 2024 by Shanna cheramie
Star was amazing and helpful! Thanks to Ben for all his help as well
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07 Dec, 2023 by Ashley savoie
My dad lost a chance to survive because EMTs failed to properly use an AED. Me and my kids would’ve loved and cherished the chance to spend any more time with him.
Joseph Bruno Junior worked with a team of medical experts and fought for us for a long time. He is caring, thorough, skilled and professional.
The legal process can be slow, but it was worth the wait because I had the right attorney handling my case all the way through to the end. Thank you, Joseph Junior.
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21 Oct, 2023 by Lilian carla
Joseph Bruno Jr. ajudou-me com um acidente de automóvel. Ele fez um ótimo trabalho. Recomendo vivamente Joseph Bruno Jr.
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12 Sep, 2023 by Marquesha lofton
I was driving a FedEx truck on Highway 431 in Ascension parish when a pick up truck crossed over the center lane and hit my vehicle. We both ended up in a ditch. I was scared to death. Joseph Bruno Junior handled my case smoothly. He was quick, and he kept me up-to-date. Go see Joe, Jr.!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Edlisha johnson
The best law office ever!! Always shows they care!! Feels like family…. Mr. Cueria always goes above and beyond to get what you deserve!! Most important, FAIR!!!!
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25 Sep, 2024 by Chris davis
Great exprience very knowledgable and understanding will recomend to family and friends.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Terri huckabee
I am grateful for the help
I received with my case, especially when it seemed like no one else cared or thought it was worth their time. The Chopin Law Firm fought long and hard so that I could get some financial closure. They always made me feel like my unfortunate injury that occurred while I was visiting New Orleans was important and mattered. I highly recommend this firm because you can trust that they actually care and want to help.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Tyler chauvin
Extremely professional, dedicated and caring lawyers definitely will fight for you and not give up until they are satisfied that they provided the best experience and you are satisfied and compensated for your losses highly recommend Lindsey Arnold she's the best 💯💪🏽
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04 Sep, 2024 by Sharonda richardson
27 Aug, 2024 by Stephen cali
Always a joy working Irpino, Avin, & Hawkins! I have worked particularly with Kacie Gray and she has been excellent. She worked diligently to resolve my issues quickly and professionally. I plan to work with her again in the future. .
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09 Sep, 2024 by Tyler chauvin
Extremely professional, dedicated and caring lawyers definitely will fight for you and not give up until they are satisfied that they provided the best experience and you are satisfied and compensated for your losses highly recommend Lindsey Arnold she's the best 💯💪🏽
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04 Sep, 2024 by Sharonda richardson
27 Aug, 2024 by Stephen cali
Always a joy working Irpino, Avin, & Hawkins! I have worked particularly with Kacie Gray and she has been excellent. She worked diligently to resolve my issues quickly and professionally. I plan to work with her again in the future. .
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Tyler chauvin
Extremely professional, dedicated and caring lawyers definitely will fight for you and not give up until they are satisfied that they provided the best experience and you are satisfied and compensated for your losses highly recommend Lindsey Arnold she's the best 💯💪🏽
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Sharonda richardson
27 Aug, 2024 by Stephen cali
Always a joy working Irpino, Avin, & Hawkins! I have worked particularly with Kacie Gray and she has been excellent. She worked diligently to resolve my issues quickly and professionally. I plan to work with her again in the future. .
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28 Aug, 2024 by Brian seal
14 Aug, 2024 by Michael comstock
This firm is top notch. If your lucky enough to have your case assigned to Laci, she was amazing and communicative through the whole process. She gave me a time frame for when she could have my case resolved and she didn't disappoint. I would recommend this firm to anyone.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Mike harper
Mr. Toledano is extremely knowledgeable about disability law. He gives great advice and I highly recommend him! His expertise is second to none!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Pedro antunes
Oliver Hadley is a horrible lawyer didn't show up for court, and I had to travel from Chicago to finish the job. Mr. Hadley never once had the courtesy it to return my phone calls after receiving full payment.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Bertrand washington
My partner needed an attorney to file an eviction so I recommend Mr. Oliver Hadley based his reviews. We never met Mr. Hadley because we live in Chicago so we spoke with him several times a day concerning the case, and he sent an e-contract to sign electronically along with a form to submit payment.
Once he received full payment he slowly stopped communicating, as we tried several occasions to contact him but he wouldn't reply until two weeks later. Twice the court date was set but Mr. Oliver Hadley never showed up, and always made up excuses for his absence. My partner and I finally drove to New Orleans for the court hearing, completed the filing of motion ourselves and informed the Judge the situation of being ripped off by this attorney. I differently would not recommend Mr. Hardley has reported him to the law board.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Jesse rafert
I am the alleged victim of a crime, but I do not believe that the charges reflect the events on the night that the defendant was arrested and feel uncomfortable with the fact that he is being prosecuted.
After several months of trying to convince the prosecution not to go forward with the charges, and of contacting the public defender’s office to no avail (in hopes of communicating with the defendant’s attorney and gaining some insight into how I might be able to share my version of events, which was not reflected in the police report), I had become quite desperate.
While financial reservations had initially dissuaded me from contacting a private defense attorney, I decided that I should, at the very least, look into the cost of a consultation.
I left a message on Stephen Hebert’s voicemail at the ungodly hour of four in the morning, expecting that I would wait several days before hearing back from an employee, if at all. But, to my great surprise, Attorney Hebert himself called me back within an hour and half. He did not take me through a lengthy intake process or require me to schedule an appointment, he simply asked if I would like to do a free phone consultation then and there.
I anxiously explained my story at some length, and he listened patiently and then spoke with me for almost 2 hours about various aspects of the case, and about the practical implications, and potential benefits and risks of submitting a sworn affidavit recounting my version of the events (I told him I had been considering doing this).
Given that he was not representing me, he was not in a position to tell me what I should do. But he answered all of my questions and familiarized me with a range of possible outcomes, drawing not only upon his legal knowledge but upon his practical knowledge of how things tend to work “on the ground” in Orleans Parish, where my case is being heard.
I left the call with a sense of peace and agency that I have not been able to achieve for months, simply by virtue of Attorney Hebert’s willingness to explain things to me in a way that I could understand. Although he did not represent me, his timely and generous handling of my questions and concerns speaks volumes to the kind of person he is, and to how he treats his clients. I highly recommend.
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07 Nov, 2022 by Gd x
Dean Gaunt is doing a great job keeping students engaged and mingling with each other. Law school demands a lot of non-social mental work--reading, research, writing--and these events keep the classes interacting so that we get make connections and de-stress.
Our professors keep up with Dean Gaunt in their excellence. They are experienced teachers and know how to handle first year classes (extra kudos to Gajda, torts, and Gordley, contracts). So glad to have picked Tulane.
Regarding peers; there is a reputation among all law school applicants that their classmates are out to push them down the curve. I have yet to meet anyone who has been unwilling to answer a question or offer academic insight.
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14 Jun, 2022 by Isaac ablordeppey
18 Apr, 2022 by Ryan beasley
07 Nov, 2022 by Gd x
Dean Gaunt is doing a great job keeping students engaged and mingling with each other. Law school demands a lot of non-social mental work--reading, research, writing--and these events keep the classes interacting so that we get make connections and de-stress.
Our professors keep up with Dean Gaunt in their excellence. They are experienced teachers and know how to handle first year classes (extra kudos to Gajda, torts, and Gordley, contracts). So glad to have picked Tulane.
Regarding peers; there is a reputation among all law school applicants that their classmates are out to push them down the curve. I have yet to meet anyone who has been unwilling to answer a question or offer academic insight.
Read more
14 Jun, 2022 by Isaac ablordeppey
18 Apr, 2022 by Ryan beasley
07 Nov, 2022 by Gd x
Dean Gaunt is doing a great job keeping students engaged and mingling with each other. Law school demands a lot of non-social mental work--reading, research, writing--and these events keep the classes interacting so that we get make connections and de-stress.
Our professors keep up with Dean Gaunt in their excellence. They are experienced teachers and know how to handle first year classes (extra kudos to Gajda, torts, and Gordley, contracts). So glad to have picked Tulane.
Regarding peers; there is a reputation among all law school applicants that their classmates are out to push them down the curve. I have yet to meet anyone who has been unwilling to answer a question or offer academic insight.
Read more
14 Jun, 2022 by Isaac ablordeppey
18 Apr, 2022 by Ryan beasley
27 Sep, 2024 by Dominique cain
I hired this firm because I was in a accident with another car and a 18 wheeler which nobody took fault and I wasn’t at fault this firm won my case Andrew was so great he made sure to help with every process and was always in contact making me aware of every step I highly recommend this firm PUT THE WOMAC ON EM!!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Janine anderson (4everblessedqueen)
I wasn’t sure what to do after being in an accident but decided to allow Womac Law Firm to take the case. I’m so happy I did. Everyone on the case was extremely helpful and supportive from start to finish. I never had to worry about are they working on the case or not. I was informed during the entire process. I was also pleased to meet Mr. Womac himself. Unlike some law firms you work with attorneys under the head attorney but never meet the owner of the firm. You will never be disappointed by choosing to put The Womac on them. The best law firm in NOLA!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Dondrielm jourdan
PUT THE WOMAC ON THEM ! Great communication, gets the job done, and goes for the max…. I was well pleased with my experience with The Womac Law Firm special thanks to Jeff my attorney you are well appreciated for all your hard work and dedication and determination job well done… I’m one satisfied customer!
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20 May, 2024 by Brett
Very prompt, friendly, community focused attorneys. Came in for notary and left with a smile.
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01 Sep, 2022 by Sharell ausbrooks-jones
First off for a lawyer he is the most nonchalant person. Instead of thinking people are already guilty a lawyer is supposed to fight for a client not just automatically deem them guilty. And that’s on just off of a consultation.
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30 Dec, 2021 by Chad milton
09 Aug, 2024 by Ty joplin
09 Aug, 2024 by Christopher piedimonte
A friend gave me Charlie Thomas's number when I was in a hospital bed, and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made: high praise but sincere words. I signed a contract with Charlie about half a page long without overcomplicated jargon. He represented me for as long as there was work to do, and he didn't just get a great result; he got me the best result.
It isn't easy to overstate this, but I don't believe I could have found better representation than Huber Thomas Law.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth hopmann
I’m so thankful for Charlie. He guided me through the legal process and helped me feel safe and secure knowing that my case was being handled with the utmost care and consideration. He fought hard and obtained a fantastic result for me after a traumatic bike wreck. If you need a personal injury attorney, Charlie made the process as comprehensive and easy as I could have ever imagined.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Ty joplin
09 Aug, 2024 by Christopher piedimonte
A friend gave me Charlie Thomas's number when I was in a hospital bed, and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made: high praise but sincere words. I signed a contract with Charlie about half a page long without overcomplicated jargon. He represented me for as long as there was work to do, and he didn't just get a great result; he got me the best result.
It isn't easy to overstate this, but I don't believe I could have found better representation than Huber Thomas Law.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth hopmann
I’m so thankful for Charlie. He guided me through the legal process and helped me feel safe and secure knowing that my case was being handled with the utmost care and consideration. He fought hard and obtained a fantastic result for me after a traumatic bike wreck. If you need a personal injury attorney, Charlie made the process as comprehensive and easy as I could have ever imagined.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Ty joplin
09 Aug, 2024 by Christopher piedimonte
A friend gave me Charlie Thomas's number when I was in a hospital bed, and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made: high praise but sincere words. I signed a contract with Charlie about half a page long without overcomplicated jargon. He represented me for as long as there was work to do, and he didn't just get a great result; he got me the best result.
It isn't easy to overstate this, but I don't believe I could have found better representation than Huber Thomas Law.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth hopmann
I’m so thankful for Charlie. He guided me through the legal process and helped me feel safe and secure knowing that my case was being handled with the utmost care and consideration. He fought hard and obtained a fantastic result for me after a traumatic bike wreck. If you need a personal injury attorney, Charlie made the process as comprehensive and easy as I could have ever imagined.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Ty joplin
09 Aug, 2024 by Christopher piedimonte
A friend gave me Charlie Thomas's number when I was in a hospital bed, and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made: high praise but sincere words. I signed a contract with Charlie about half a page long without overcomplicated jargon. He represented me for as long as there was work to do, and he didn't just get a great result; he got me the best result.
It isn't easy to overstate this, but I don't believe I could have found better representation than Huber Thomas Law.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth hopmann
I’m so thankful for Charlie. He guided me through the legal process and helped me feel safe and secure knowing that my case was being handled with the utmost care and consideration. He fought hard and obtained a fantastic result for me after a traumatic bike wreck. If you need a personal injury attorney, Charlie made the process as comprehensive and easy as I could have ever imagined.
Read more
30 Apr, 2024 by Keosha rose
22 Mar, 2024 by Xhhkwanita t
22 Mar, 2024 by Jody trigleth
Discover the ideal lawyer
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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:
-
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.
