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Theresa Ristenpart, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Reno, NV with 189 reviews
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43,40
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
4.6
10 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
179 Reviews
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28 Aug, 2024 by Shana rubin
Theresa and her staff were nothing short of amazing! She was honest and dedicated. I had a lot of down time in my case so I was ancy! Her team were always polite and respectful. Finally when we beat it Theresa and her team went out of their way to bring my son and I things like blankets, towels, dishes, etc..... knowing that I had lost everything while incarcerated. The best part was she even came to deliver them to us!!!! Thank you so much Theresa and her team!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Jessica marie wilson
Couldn’t have been happier with the whole experience. Top notch in every aspect.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Will g.
Theresa was great to work with. Very knowledgeable, fair priced, professional and a great staff as well. If I need an attorney again for anything it will be her.
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William J. Routsis II, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Reno, NV with 23 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,76
star star star star star
4.7/5
Avvo
4.6
11 Reviews
Yelp
4.7
12 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Nov, 2023 by Damiana h.
Routsis has always been so helpful and is a very great lawyer. His secretary Elizebeth is always so helpful as well and answers whenever we have questions. He's also straight forward and gets things done! Thank you William We appreciate you!
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14 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
No defense or fight in our case.. no defense or negotiation! Awful lawyer..Took the money and did nothing..
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01 Dec, 2022 by Eric g.
This lawyer will do whatever has to be done and can get what you want with his personal ties to the courts. If want to pay $$$$ he can get the job done exactly how you want it!
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Stephanie R. Rice, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 13 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,40
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
13 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Mar, 2021 by Rey
Easy to talk to. Made us feel at ease and assured at initial consultation. Definitely will hire Atty Rice for our needs on legal matters.
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03 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
She helped me through thick and thin. Truely the best Representative. Thank you Stephanie.
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02 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Stephanie is a cross between Princess Diana and Erin Brockovich. She is beautiful, kind, selfless and endearing. She is also a fierce litigator who will do whatever it takes to get justice for her clients. My husband and I endured the most difficult times of our life when my husband and his business partner decided to part ways. From the second we met Stephanie, she made us feel important and like she genuinely cared about our case. She went above and beyond what you would expect from a lawyer while fighting and fighting until she won us what we had spent our whole lives earning. We will forever be indebted to her for what she has done for our family.
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Brian M. Brown, experienced Civil Rights, Insurance attorney in Reno, NV with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Jan, 2015 by Jean
Brian Brown was referred by a friend for advice on residential real estate and roadway liability concerns. He is very knowledgeable in this liability field. He answered all my questions, offered sound advice and clearly put his recommendations in writing. He was quick to have the answers and personal experience with my particular issues. He responded rapidly and kept me informed of his progress. I highly recommend Mr. Brown.
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Nicole M. Harvey, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
20 May, 2022 by Pat turner
We recently updated our estate documents with Laury Macauley, Esq. We have had trusts for over four decades and have worked with a number of attorneys over the years. After moving to Reno Nevada, a community property state, we needed an update. We contacted a number of estate attorneys. Almost all had 60+ page boiler plate trust templates into which they inserted relevant individualized information but most of these bloated documents had information that does not and never will be relevant to us. Such large trusts are cumbersome and inefficient since during settlement, parties must read everything to be sure something important is not missed. We wanted a more personalized straightforward trust which eliminated all the bloat, unnecessary legal jargon, generation skipping wording, minor dependents, dependent trusts, etc. etc. Laury agreed to work with us to accomplish what we wanted…estate documents relevant to our situation written in a straightforward manner. In the end our very comprehensive trust is 22 pages long. We found her to be bright, helpful, knowledgeable and ethical. She was among a very few lawyers willing to help us create what WE wanted rather than something off the shelf. This took extra time so the process did extend over 2 months but we are extremely pleased. We would definitely recommend Ms. Macauley without reservation to others.
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05 Sep, 2019 by Julie miescke
Macauley law group is the best for estate planning . Laury Macauley set up our family trust . What a blessing to have peace of mind!!
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03 Nov, 2016 by Marcello rostagni photography
Laury is amazing to work with! I needed a legal document created for the business. She made the process easy and addressed all my needs. We are looking forward to working with her again on a trust! I highly recommend Macauley Law Group!
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Kent Richard Robison, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 5 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,01
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
5 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Sep, 2019 by John powers
Excellent attorney and litigator. Highly recommend him!
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14 Sep, 2019 by Elizabeth rayburn
I have been fortunate enough to have Mike Sullivan represent me for legal services for the last 14 years for both personal and business reasons. He is always honest, to the point and got the job done. He kept me informed every step of the way and we always prevailed! I could not imagine using anyone other than Mike Sullivan. Thank you Mike!
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09 Sep, 2019 by Swope rumors
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Jack Gabriel Angaran, experienced Civil Rights, Real Estate attorney in Reno, NV with 2 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Jan, 2022 by Lau r
Google Maps
star star star star star
26 May, 2020 by Chrissie w.
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Dale E Ferguson, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Reno, NV with 49 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,65
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
49 Reviews
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05 Dec, 2024 by Kathleen golberg
I have been working with Shawn Pearson at Woodburn and Wedge for the last year and a half and I am very happy with his professional, knowledgeable and prompt actions. I am a client who lives out of state and have found that distance does not matter. I will happily recommend Shawn Pearson to anyone who is looking for an east to work with and capable attorney. His staff of Cassy and Nikki are great to work with.
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07 Jun, 2024 by David smith
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19 May, 2024 by Marie bogue
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Kenneth E. Lyon III, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Reno, NV with 16 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,27
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
16 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Aug, 2023 by Christopher st. peter
Mr. Houston has represented me in quite a few legal binds I had gotten. Myself into and I always had a great out come so ty Mr. Houston
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20 Dec, 2021 by Laycee rider
Dave was the best. You could ask around in all of Reno and anyone will tell you he's #1.+. He was a family friend and always helped me get out of trouble and I will miss him now that he's gone. Sad that he passed unexpectedly at only 69. Rest Forever In Peace Dave....
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20 Oct, 2021 by Shani stine
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Ian E Silverberg, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Reno, NV with 137 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,98
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.3
136 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Feb, 2025 by Naomy garibay
Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Feb, 2025 by Josefina meza real
La mejor abogada junto con su staff, gracias, gracias, gracias
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20 Dec, 2024 by Joel diaz
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Kristen Diane Matteoni, experienced Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 16 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,19
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
16 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Sep, 2024 by Carmen rodriguez
Google Maps
star star star star star
01 May, 2024 by Steve horst
I received a DUI in a very small town in northern Nevada after allegedly running a stop sign. My wife and I were on vacation from Arizona and it was a very stressful series of events. The closest lawyers I was able to find was in Reno and there were not too many choices. After thoroughly reviewing each profile of the lawyers that were available I chose to hire Lee Hotchkins. Lee was known as being fierce in court and he had years of experience defending cases such as mine. The trial eventually occurred 9 months after the incident. During the 9 month period Lee made many motions to dismiss and the prosecution opposed each motion. The case file containing emails back and forth with the DA was substantial. No video evidence was ever turned over. Lee continued to push to the point where a different prosecutor assumed the case after the original prosecutor became frustrated. On the day of the trial the DA made a deal to drop the DUI to a reckless driving citation. The plea was very unexpected and surprised Lee almost as much as it surprised me and my wife. Lee Hotchkins is admirable, a man of his word who fights fiercely for the rights of his clients in a passionate and forceful manner. Lee will not beat around the bush and will astutely advise you in your own best interest. My wife and I gave Lee a very big hug after the trial. Without his council the ramifications would have been much more severe. If you are in the position that I found myself in, I would highly recommend that you call Lee Hotchkins and get him on your case immediately. Trust me, you can't afford not to. Thank you, Lee.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Patrick grecian
Mr Hotchkin is a great lawyer his experience really shows in the courtroom. Hire this man you will be very satisfied with your decision.
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Mark Mausert, experienced Civil Rights, Discrimination attorney in Reno, NV with 4 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
22,52
star star star star star
3.7/5
Avvo
3.7
4 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Apr, 2024 by Joshua
Thank you Mark for your assistance, you helped me greatly on my issue. would highly recommend to anyone!
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22 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I spoke with mark recently about my sexual harassment case. He was incredibly helpful knowledgeable and friendly!! This man saved me when all the other attorneys I’ve spoken to either gave me the wrong advice or didn’t help me at all. I’ve called 1000s and this is the first man who listened to me. And explained everything so proficiently
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09 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
I wouldn't even give a star if I could I would give NEGATIVE !!! This man absolutely wasted my time and pretty much took my money. He swore up and down I shouldn't have even been arrested and how we were going to win well as soon as I paid him he never kept in touch nor would he call back every time we went to court he had no idea about my extremely SIMPLE case and ended up threatening me to plea guilty which if I knew then what I know now I never would have done so. My public defender later on said he could've gotten me off for free!!! I literally called for someone overdosing and had picked up their spoon well I got felony possession for it even tho it was just residue and I had nothing in my system...he told me if I fought it and didn't just plea guilty that they'd send me to prison which is BS it's mandatory probation and again the good Samaritan law should have made this not even happen...sorry for the novel I just don't want anyone else to ever have to lose out on money and time in their life they'll never get back as I have done over two years because of this...oh and I never even had a ticket prior to this!!! ---Ally (sorry using bfs account but I doubt you remember me anyway)
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Alice Campos Mercado, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 6 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,44
star star star star star
3.7/5
Google Maps
3.7
6 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Jun, 2024 by Sergio echeverry
They practically hung up on me as they said they’re not taking new clients… sour sour they sounded!
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20 May, 2022 by Lali sekhon
Very professional. Ed Lemons is amazing!
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20 May, 2022 by Lali sekhon
Very professional. Approachable. Thorough. Ed Lemons is amazing.
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Craig H. Macy, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 82 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,58
star star star star star
3.5/5
Google Maps
3.5
82 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Jan, 2025 by Jason cline
STAY AWAY!!! I'd give negative stars if I could. I am an attorney and I have been using this service for 3 months. In that time I have not gotten a single quality lead. I have gotten a lot of leads that I have to weed through that have nothing to do with my practice. When I expressed my dissatisfaction I was informed that I was in a contract with them. I am positive that at the end of my contract term they will not honor their money back guarantee. Other reviews on here say they don't. I wish I would have read the reviews prior to agreeing to this scam.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Philip williams
I used the service and immediately got a call. The attorney wouldn’t respond, so they had an attorney call. She refused to acknowledge that I was asking about my case instead of something familiar with me, then sent me a link to pay $480 to explain what I tried to on the phone, to see if she would let me pay her thousands to give her opinion. A time wasting scam
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02 Dec, 2024 by Alyson johnson
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Robert L. Eisenberg, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,84
star star star star star
3.7/5
Google Maps
3.7
6 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Jun, 2024 by Sergio echeverry
They practically hung up on me as they said they’re not taking new clients… sour sour they sounded!
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20 May, 2022 by Lali sekhon
Very professional. Ed Lemons is amazing!
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20 May, 2022 by Lali sekhon
Very professional. Approachable. Thorough. Ed Lemons is amazing.
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Thomas Peter Beko, experienced Civil Rights, Litigation attorney in Reno, NV with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
09 May, 2014 by Anonymous
This attorney may be good most of the time, but in my experience he needs to exercise much greater judgment before taking on cases with no merit. I was personally hurt by false allegations he made in court documents in order to secure a small insurance claim for his client. These false allegations were reported in the media and continue to tarnish my reputation, and I have little or no legal recourse to combat it. He and another attorney failed to communicate to me a mediation/settlement conference, which is in violation of the Nevada Code of Professional Conduct. His lapses in judgment have created much grief, and this lack of exercising "due diligence" is what gives lawyers a bad reputation.
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Brian Sooudi, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,00
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0.0/5
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Jack D Campbell, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Robert Francis Balkenbush, experienced Civil Rights, Insurance attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Joshua Michael Halen, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Scott H. Husbands, experienced Civil Rights, Discrimination attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Madelyn Bliss Shipman, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Stephen C. Balkenbush, experienced Civil Rights, Insurance attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Brent T Kolvet, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Charity F. Felts, experienced Civil Rights, Litigation attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Brent L. Ryman, experienced Civil Rights, Litigation attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Brett A. Dieffenbach, experienced Civil Rights, Litigation attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Brian Warner Hagen, experienced Civil Rights, Criminal Defense attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Sean M. McGuinness, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Paul J. Anderson, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Reno, NV with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Civil Rights Lawyer Can Do for You

A civil rights lawyer focuses on protecting individuals whose constitutional rights have been violated by government authorities, employers, or private organizations. These lawyers specialize in cases involving discrimination, police misconduct, freedom of speech, and other fundamental rights guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution and civil rights laws, such as the Civil Rights Act, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Fair Housing Act.

Whether you've been discriminated against due to race, gender, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics, or you believe your civil rights have been violated by a government entity, a civil rights lawyer can help you seek justice, hold wrongdoers accountable, and secure compensation for any harm you've suffered.

When Should I Hire a Civil Rights Lawyer?

You should hire a civil rights lawyer when your constitutional rights or other protected rights have been violated, and you need legal assistance to seek justice. Some key situations in which you may need a civil rights lawyer include:

  • Employment discrimination: If you have faced discrimination at work based on race, gender, age, religion, national origin, or disability, a civil rights lawyer can help you file claims under laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
  • Police misconduct or brutality: If you were the victim of police brutality, unlawful arrest, racial profiling, or other forms of misconduct, a lawyer can help you file a lawsuit for violations of your Fourth and Fourteenth Amendment rights.
  • Freedom of speech or assembly violations: If your First Amendment rights to free speech or peaceful assembly have been restricted by the government, a civil rights lawyer can represent you in challenging the violation.
  • Housing discrimination: If you’ve been denied housing or faced unfair treatment due to your race, ethnicity, gender, or disability, a lawyer can help you file a complaint under the Fair Housing Act.
  • Voter rights violations: If you believe your right to vote has been unfairly suppressed or you’ve faced discrimination in the voting process, a civil rights lawyer can help you fight for your rights.
  • Disability rights violations: If you’ve faced discrimination in accessing public spaces, employment, or services due to a disability, a lawyer can help enforce your rights under the ADA.
  • LGBTQ+ rights violations: If you've experienced discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in employment, housing, or public services, a civil rights lawyer can help you pursue legal remedies.

Hiring a lawyer early on can help you understand your legal options and build a strong case to protect your rights.

What Does a Civil Rights Lawyer Do?

A civil rights lawyer provides legal representation and advocacy to individuals whose rights have been violated. Their work can include:

  • Filing lawsuits: A civil rights lawyer can represent you in court by filing lawsuits against individuals, businesses, or government entities that violated your rights.
  • Advocating for policy changes: Civil rights lawyers often engage in advocacy work, pushing for reforms to laws and policies that infringe upon people's rights.
  • Representing clients in discrimination claims: These lawyers help clients file claims with federal or state agencies, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
  • Negotiating settlements: In many cases, civil rights lawyers work to negotiate settlements for their clients before a case goes to trial, securing compensation for damages such as lost wages, emotional distress, or legal fees.
  • Defending freedom of expression: Lawyers may represent clients whose rights to free speech, assembly, or protest were violated by government restrictions or other actions.
  • Handling appeals: If your civil rights case has been decided but you wish to appeal the ruling, a civil rights lawyer can help you through the appeals process.

How Are Civil Rights Lawyers Paid?

Civil rights lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Contingency fee: Many civil rights lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. Their fee is typically a percentage (usually 25% to 40%) of the settlement or damages awarded.
  • Hourly rate: For cases that require extensive legal research or litigation, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Pro bono or sliding scale: Some civil rights lawyers or organizations may work on a pro bono (free) basis or use a sliding fee scale for clients who cannot afford typical legal fees.
  • Flat fee: In specific cases, a lawyer may charge a flat fee for services like drafting legal documents or filing a complaint.

It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does a Civil Rights Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a civil rights lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of legal issue. General cost estimates include:

  • Contingency fee cases: For cases taken on a contingency basis, the lawyer’s fee will typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or judgment awarded.
  • Hourly rates: Many civil rights lawyers charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For straightforward legal tasks, such as filing a complaint with a government agency or drafting legal documents, flat fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Pro bono work: Some civil rights lawyers or nonprofit organizations provide free legal representation in certain cases involving important constitutional or civil rights issues.

Be sure to ask for a detailed estimate of costs during your consultation to understand the financial commitment involved.

Top Questions to Ask a Civil Rights Lawyer

Before hiring a civil rights lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with civil rights cases?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s employment discrimination, police misconduct, or First Amendment violations.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer works on a contingency fee basis, hourly rate, or flat fee, and ask for an estimate of the total cost of your case.
  3. What is the likelihood of success for my case?
    Ask the lawyer to provide an honest assessment of your case, including the strengths, weaknesses, and potential outcomes.
  4. Have you handled cases like mine before?
    Inquire about the lawyer’s experience in cases with similar facts and legal issues.
  5. What is the timeline for resolving my case?
    While exact timelines can vary, ask for an estimate of how long your case may take, from filing to resolution.
  6. Will you handle my case personally?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may work on parts of your case, so it’s important to know who will handle your legal matter directly.

How to Check the Credibility of a Civil Rights Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable civil rights lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:

  • Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no disciplinary actions against them.
  • Look for specific civil rights experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in civil rights law and have a history of handling cases like yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can speak to their experience with civil rights cases.
  • Check for advocacy or nonprofit work: Lawyers involved with civil rights organizations, such as the ACLU or NAACP Legal Defense Fund, may have a strong reputation in the civil rights legal community.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a civil rights lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • A detailed account of the violation: Provide a written summary of the events, including dates, times, and any people involved in the violation of your rights.
  • Documentation and evidence: Bring any supporting documentation, such as emails, letters, photos, or video footage that may help prove the violation of your rights.
  • Records of complaints or reports: If you’ve filed complaints with a government agency or reported the violation, bring copies of those documents.
  • List of questions: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes of your case.
  • Information on damages or harm: Be prepared to discuss the harm you’ve suffered due to the violation, such as emotional distress, financial loss, or physical injury.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and get the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.

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