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09 Feb, 2024 by Masha yan
Very good service, all members of staff Saida, Nastya, and Irina are very responsible. I got my power of attorney in three days, as promised. Thank them very much.
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08 Dec, 2023 by Adele kubekova
This is the office that I highly recommend for visiting for several reasons! First of all, the employees and managers are polite, diligent and professional, especially one pleasant woman, whose name is Sasha)) Secondly, because the work and applications are processed up to deadlines and on time. For example, my Letter of attorney and Apostille were processed ahead of the agreed deadline, which for I was amazed and pleasantly surprised, cause that gave an opportunity to check the document thoroughly and send the approved version back for final processing. I like the fact that they send translated documents to their customers for the review ahead of time. Third reason is that the office has a convenient location in Brooklyn, and managers can analyze and process documents both - in Russian and English languages! That is awesome!
So, my final word is - do not hesitate to visit and refer to the outlined office!
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19 Sep, 2023 by Kshtirlitz
Самый адекватный и эффективный нотариальный офис на Брайтоне. Делал у них несколько доверенностей с апостилями и переводы. Все было сделано оперативно, качественно (все документы сработали без нареканий) и недорого. Приятные спокойные сотрудники, нормально общаются, без загонов, как в других офисах. Обязательно порекомендую знакомым
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28 Feb, 2023 by John b
Mr. Cancellare was appointed by the court as the "attorney for my children" in a divorce. Let me start by saying that the two reviews from "Alex" -- the only positive reviews he has -- were written by his "paralegal." Mr. Cancellare spends 99% of his time drafting his bills for tasks that he never performed and the other 1% of his time talking about his bills and getting paid. Not .00001% of his time is devoted to ensuring the best interests of the children are being represented. Perhaps at one time in his career he cared about representing children, but at this point it is clear that all he cares about is stockpiling money for retirement and dragging out his involvement in each case as long as possible. It's time to retire.
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30 Dec, 2022 by Kay
The absolute worse representation of a child lawyer that a court can appoint. He is heartless, unprofessional and lacks interest in your children only interested in the financial aspect of the case. He truly should retire and allow other lawyers who are better qualified and actually have genuine interest in children’s rights and advocacy to take over.
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27 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Thank you for everything that you did for my children and I. You’re a very caring, thoughtful and selfless person. I could never express with words how much I appreciate all your efforts. It is a blessing to have you in our lives.
I will forever be grateful to you for your assistance in my matter with my children.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Solidad nwakibu
Had a very rude and snappy front staff during my first intro call.....look elsewhere because this firm won't care for you.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Howard bent
There aren't enough words in the English Language to express how grateful I am to have had Borrelli and Associates P.L.L.C represent me on my employment matter. This was my first time needing an employment attorney. In this particular instance, I needed an employment attorney to follow up on a very difficult matter that warranted an extremely experienced firm that handled employment law. Mr. Michael Borrelli, who is the Managing Attorney/Member of the firm assisted me on my case. He responded to each and every question I had and always gave me step by step updates on his communication with the other party. Although very difficult, Mr. Borrelli was able to settle the case in less than 90 days. I would highly recommend anyone who is seeking legal assistance with their employment matter to not hesitate on retaining the services of Borrelli and Associates PLLC. I would also like to add that all the employees at the firm that interacted with via phone and e mail were very generous, respectful and helpful. I really appreciate your help. Thank you again for your assistance Mr. Borrelli!
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01 Dec, 2023 by Marc eardley
The team communicated throughout the long legal process and worked hard to get the fairest outcome possible and explained the very thing along the way. I’m very happy with everything.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Solidad nwakibu
Had a very rude and snappy front staff during my first intro call.....look elsewhere because this firm won't care for you.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Howard bent
There aren't enough words in the English Language to express how grateful I am to have had Borrelli and Associates P.L.L.C represent me on my employment matter. This was my first time needing an employment attorney. In this particular instance, I needed an employment attorney to follow up on a very difficult matter that warranted an extremely experienced firm that handled employment law. Mr. Michael Borrelli, who is the Managing Attorney/Member of the firm assisted me on my case. He responded to each and every question I had and always gave me step by step updates on his communication with the other party. Although very difficult, Mr. Borrelli was able to settle the case in less than 90 days. I would highly recommend anyone who is seeking legal assistance with their employment matter to not hesitate on retaining the services of Borrelli and Associates PLLC. I would also like to add that all the employees at the firm that interacted with via phone and e mail were very generous, respectful and helpful. I really appreciate your help. Thank you again for your assistance Mr. Borrelli!
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01 Dec, 2023 by Marc eardley
The team communicated throughout the long legal process and worked hard to get the fairest outcome possible and explained the very thing along the way. I’m very happy with everything.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Esther kennedy
Great Attorney always willing to help!
Thank you
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20 Mar, 2024 by Ronda strickland
01 Jul, 2022 by Brandon quinn
Very unfriendly on the phone I hung up and tried a different law firm they were able to help me and we’re very friendly
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16 Jan, 2019 by Haley
Patricia worked close with my family and I and got well deserved justice when we had little hope, words can not describe how thankful I am for her help and for ensuring the health of my children
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11 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
She is very persistent in giving clients 100% effort and attention. Patti is extremely insightful and creates a strong and effective environment.
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13 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I felt hopeless before I meet Patricia Finn, she helped me and my family protect our religious beliefs.
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04 Oct, 2023 by Brandon borradaile
Treasonous CULT members who are trying to help some criminal avoid accountability. Your CRIMINALS TOO!
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09 Dec, 2022 by T r
22 Oct, 2019 by Dj xentury
04 Oct, 2023 by Brandon borradaile
Treasonous CULT members who are trying to help some criminal avoid accountability. Your CRIMINALS TOO!
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09 Dec, 2022 by T r
22 Oct, 2019 by Dj xentury
27 Jan, 2024 by Rose brown
Approximately 20 years ago I was introduced to this firm by one of my friends. David Hoffberg was my attorney. He was very knowledgeable, helpful, personable. He had patience and made sure everything was explained in layman’s terms. I felt as if he was a personal friend at the conclusion of my case. I referred a relative to him. Unfortunately, he left the firm and the attorney that took my relative’s case was rude, lacked patience, did not stay in contact and ultimately told her after she moved out of state they contacted her and told her they wanted to terminate her case. I’m sorry I referred her in the end.
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19 Dec, 2021 by Youngmin campbell
08 Oct, 2020 by Sarah kynast
27 Jan, 2024 by Rose brown
Approximately 20 years ago I was introduced to this firm by one of my friends. David Hoffberg was my attorney. He was very knowledgeable, helpful, personable. He had patience and made sure everything was explained in layman’s terms. I felt as if he was a personal friend at the conclusion of my case. I referred a relative to him. Unfortunately, he left the firm and the attorney that took my relative’s case was rude, lacked patience, did not stay in contact and ultimately told her after she moved out of state they contacted her and told her they wanted to terminate her case. I’m sorry I referred her in the end.
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19 Dec, 2021 by Youngmin campbell
08 Oct, 2020 by Sarah kynast
16 Sep, 2024 by Gregory rodriguez
Great firm and I highly recommend.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Chris seck
19 Oct, 2021 by Tipp boogie
16 Sep, 2024 by Gregory rodriguez
Great firm and I highly recommend.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Chris seck
19 Oct, 2021 by Tipp boogie
16 Sep, 2024 by Gregory rodriguez
Great firm and I highly recommend.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Chris seck
19 Oct, 2021 by Tipp boogie
25 Mar, 2023 by Benjamin cohen
You told me very blatantly there are no options and I'm "in a pickle", you made no attempt at helping me. I have retained other legal counsel through this same plan for this exact matter, and several options were discussed and will be negotiated with the plaintiffs attorneys who brought this judgment to the county sheriff's office.
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20 Sep, 2022 by Social media konsyl intern
Very happy with the service and turn around time. Daniel answered all of our questions and was very sensitive to our situation
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17 Dec, 2020 by Vegan veteran
You know what they say, you get what you pay for.
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28 Feb, 2022 by Mike manieri
Wanted me to upload very sensitive personal data to an employee's personal dropbox account. Not very good security.
When I complained they 'dropped' me as a potential client.
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27 Nov, 2020 by Bobby johnson
Not really sure about these guys initially I was supposed to get a $ 15.000 rebate. After settlement now. These lawyers are wanting me to except not even a forth of that ,this was a 138 million dollar settlement Maxxforce 11 and 13 I'm going to have someone check them out.
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01 Oct, 2019 by Awilda cordero
15 Jul, 2019 by Ausha
18 Feb, 2019 by Larry castellano
28 Apr, 2018 by Rohit jain
11 Jun, 2024 by Natural beauty
11 Aug, 2023 by Ethan macomber
Never do business with these people, you can't even get past the horrible rude front desk person without getting treated terribly and hung up on before I even got a word out past my name and building , not to mention I've never even called before so I dont get who they thought they were speaking too
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10 Dec, 2022 by Jeffrey walker
26 Jul, 2021 by Lior
I had been recommended the firm of Altman & Altman by one of my clients, who insisted that this firm was timely and professional in their earnest recommendation. My client had even stated them to be a “pro-real estate agents” firm that would put forth an honest and uttermost effort to assist their clientele, and after my experience I can only conclude that my friend must have unfortunately confused their assistive firm with this one. Yet, in my experience, this firm seemed to be concerned with the matter of my payment transference first and foremost, and customer service was a distant afterthought. Not only did I have to facilitate any kind of interaction with the firm on my behalf, but I was always reliably let down and at least mildly upset with every interaction with the firm.
The representative that answered the phone goes by the name Suzy (receptionist) always conducted herself in a terse and distant manner, and the customer service I had received during this transaction was unsatisfactory and hollow. The appointments that were scheduled by the firm were always with the priority of fitting it ‘neatly’ in to the firm’s schedule, with little to no consideration of my own. There was rarely a time when I was able to have any of these meetings in a condition satisfactory to my needs, and I was typically frustrated at every ‘result’ that occurred.
The point of my transaction was for closing the deal, a costly process and business that can’t afford constant delay and miscommunication. The irregularities in the scheduling of our meetings, including the terse atmosphere I was often presented with, lead to conclusion that I was not entirely convinced couldn’t have been handled more properly elsewhere. At first believing this to simply be a gross oversight and dire miscommunication, I had attempted to contact the office numerous times to express my confusion.
What had started as a big misunderstanding quickly revealed itself to be an issue of miscommunication that plagued our relationship and soured the transaction. Instead of being treated with the tailored and specialized care that I had been recommended to them with, I felt more like my request had been “processed”, and that I had simply become a ‘number in a ledger’ to them, without the personal attention I had honestly expected from our initial agreement. Outraged by the overall handling of my affairs, and the conclusively negative results that I had endured, it convinced me that the least I could do was post a warning so others won’t fall to the same unsatisfying end as I did.
It was to my disheartened surprise to find a cautionary warning from their office, claiming that attempting to conduct business and right these wrongs were “harassment to the persons of their office”, and had since been requested to cease before legal action had been taken. This reactionary response to my explicit requests for more time with the legal team has threatened me not only financially, but now approaching legal measures. I simply seek to warn anyone who seeks to do business with them that they should proceed with caution.
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16 Apr, 2021 by Sal ben shimon
Mr. Altman is knowledgeable, patient and super focus. His dedication is second to non. Mr. Altman is honest and knows how to represent his clients and obtain the results that his clients expect. Highly recommended.
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07 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
wanted and willing to purchase a condo at 327 Admiral Lane in the Bronx. This was really a waste of time and money from beginning to end. Mr. Altman was the seller's attorney and I would not deal with any transaction that has his name. it was a back and forth between him and my lawyer for a "Willfull Default" a word on the contract of sale and condo violation and he ended up returning my check for the downpayment and deal was cancelled. Thank you God deal was cancelled because the property went for sale before and was put on the market again God knows what reasons. 2 deals cancellation for the same property within 2months.
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06 Jan, 2016 by Don
When I first spoke to Ms Hyman she was SO compassionate and I really thought I was in good hands. But all she really seems to care about is getting her money in the end. Would not recommend. Also, impossible to get to speak with her, too busy
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11 Dec, 2012 by Vera swinton
Elisa Hyman is an excellent lawyer with a great deal of compassion and professionalism. She is extremely knowledgeable of the laws and remains abreast of all changes. She worked passionately for my child and all others she has served.
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27 Apr, 2022 by Giacomo
A lot of attorneys told me that with my investment I would not be able to get an E2. Maria Costanza helped me with the entire process. She walked me through every step and today me and the family are in the US with an E2 that many lawyers said would be impossible.
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29 May, 2019 by Sherman
If you are the sponsor in an Immigration case, I would recommend finding another attorney. We hired her because she was cheap. Just remember that you get what you pay for. When the paperwork for the I-485 was done and submitted for our review, there were a lot of errors. Not just simple error, but things like the wrong city and state where we both were born. Getting her to return our calls or emails was hit or miss. She would say to call her because that was better than email, yet sometimes she still wouldn't return our calls. Unfortunately, my wife decided to end the marriage before the interview and let the country. When that happened, slowly Attorney Barducci started working to make it easier for my wife to return to the US later if she decided she wanted to return or remarry another American. At first the attorney would make statements like there is no guarantee that my ex would be able to re-enter the country or remarry. At first I thought that was a strange thing to say.
Also, Things that I , as the sponsor, told Barducci in confidence she told my ex and wrote to me that that the engagement letter is between my wife and her and not me and her so her and I don't have attorney client privilege. Also I did't want a letter sent to the immigration field office canceling the appointment, yet Barducci stated that she would do what was in my wife's best interest and that she was going to send the letter even though I as the sponsor was against it. The reason for this review is to let sponsors know that if you're paying for this service, this attorney will not have your best interest in mind and she will take sides if things go wrong. Yes, in the beginning, it's easy to think that your marriage is perfect, but do you want to take a chance if things go bad? I don't know if this played a role or not, but my soon to be ex-wife is Italian also.
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01 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired mr fix back in may to do my bankruptcy as he had handled my family court case. So I met with him and paid him $1500 up front as per his request. He gave me the list of things I needed and so I got all those things plus the first credit course certificate that I also sent to him. After that I went in a second time to sign the paperwork that was in June. Since then, I’ve had to call the bankruptcy court only to find out that my bankruptcy was never filed. And whenever I tried calling the office I could never get ahold of anyone because they don’t allow you to leave any messages for them to call you back. So this lawyer basically took my money but never filed my bankruptcy. Then come to find out, he’s been involved with the grievance committee from back in 2003 until present. So I wouldn’t recommend him at all. Especially if he just keeps violating professional codes of conduct within the legal system.
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13 Aug, 2015 by Nancy
Opinions of lawyers aren't very good until you need one. I needed one and I found the best lawyer in Robert Fix! He was a very concerned, knowledgeable attorney and most of all, someone who was very reachable. He handled my case very efficiently and professionally. I have nothing but high praise for him!
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27 Nov, 2021 by Alisa simmons
This Thanksgiving, we are thankful to Ms. Fairweather for her responsiveness and expertise in handling our recent real estate sale and purchase. Julian is a Godsend! Even in the bleakest situations, she maintains here integrity, leads by her conscience and keeps her clients' best interests top of mind--all while remaining calm, removing ego, and adding a bit of levity to an otherwise arduous and challenging negotiations process. If you are looking for an attorney who still has a soul and a deep-rooted passion for her calling, Ms. Fairweather is who you must call. So thank God for you, Julian. We are forever grateful.
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22 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
He lied to me and said my case was winnable. It was a winnable case that he lost on purpose. I trusted him and he let me down. My civil rights were violated...how can he lose a case like that???
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29 Dec, 2022 by Bruce
I was the seller, and I didn't come to closing (5 hours away). They wanted to charge 200 to wire funds which is absolutely theft of services since the banks charge $20, and then decided they don't and won't do wire transfers anymore. They waited 4 days to put the funds in the overnight envelope provided by my attorney, and they sent my attorney proceeds to me . Now I have the check but it's not certified funds so I need to wait for funds to clear as r.... meanwhile their clients (buyers) have the key to the house the day of closing. The gentlemen in the firm who answered the phone was amazing, but his hands were tied by the people running the show. If I ever have to do business with this firm I will tell buyers they get the key to the house WHEN I GET PAID. Poor business practices.
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16 Nov, 2018 by Laura d
They did a great job handling our home buying process.
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30 Jan, 2019 by Tyler
Amazing, soo caring, smart, and familiar with the Nassau County legal system. She is excellent at what she does and my life would have been different without her.
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25 Feb, 2014 by Katie
Never returns phone calls. Never let me know what was happening. Had one question after talking to get and twenty more. All she did the whole time when she was in court was text on her phone or leave me alone in the court room to make personal calls. I ask to switch to another legal aid attorney in the department and saw such a complete difference. So happy I left Jenna Suppon and went to another attorney.
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24 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
My experience with Mariann Wang was fantastic. She was professional, caring, and wanted to get the most for me with my case. She understood that I could not agree to certain conditions due to the complexities of my situation. I highly recommend Mariann, she's the most professional lawyer I'd dealt with to date.
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24 May, 2013 by Anonymous
How unhappy can you be with a lawyer who got you a couple hundred thousand? VERY. I was part of a group, and she refused to do anything for my case personally, even though I was a client. I asked her to do a couple things which would have been worth a lot to me and cost the other side and her other clients exactly zero, but she couldn't be bothered, because it didn't impact the amount of her fee. The last time I got individual attention and service was the day they signed me up.
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10 Apr, 2020 by Jose
I have personally had a few matters with State and Federal Taxation where Mr. Blaustein excelled at identifying solutions/remedies; he also demonstrated an acute ability to communicate and negotiate with agencies and third parties to bring about my desired results.
As a Consultant and Expeditor to business owners, I have on many occassions referred clients with sizeable tax issues and indebtedness to Mr. Blaustein. All have been very satisfied, some even were elated to have successful outcomes brought on by Mr. Randy Blausteins' professional efforts.
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28 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Blaustein was recommended by a friend when I was having difficulty with an IRS audit. His recommendations were in the final analysis not helpful and his negotiations with the IRS unsuccessful. For this work he charged me well over 10,000 and I not only received little value, but his handling resulted in a number of years of successive audits which were not in question when he began to work for me. I feel that he misrepresented his ability to achieve successful results for me from the outset and have since discussed his poor performance, high fees and over-promising results with other dissatisfied clients.
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28 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Cannick has handle many different cases for me and my family for over 20+years He has always been and always will be my attorney as long as he is in practice. I have used Mr. Cannick has always responded at the highest level. GREAT ATTORNEY
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25 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
ABANDONED THE CASE 5 YEARS INTO IT AND LEFT US WITH NO ATTORNEY
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30 Aug, 2024 by Dora
I sat down with this lawyer about a criminal case…when I went into details about the case I noticed he was very negative and objective. Red flag! He began to make disgusting remarks about the case which I felt was very inappropriate the total meeting was a waste of time and just not worth it. Please beware of this type of conduct.
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03 Mar, 2024 by Yankee2pac
When people show loyalty to you, you take care of those who are with you. It's how it goes with everything. If you have a small circle of friends, and one of those friends doesn't stay loyal to you, they don't stay your friend for very long.
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11 Sep, 2015 by Roy green
Pat and his team maybe good lawyers but they need to work on their communication and customer relationship skills.
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30 Aug, 2023 by Est future
dumb attorneys
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17 Aug, 2020 by Orlando palmer
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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:
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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.
