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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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01 Sep, 2024 by Arlen sauer
These scamming pieces of trash, continuously send me warnings, I've already contacted the city I apparently have a warrant from. No warrant. Already paid YEARS AGO! Yet they continue their scare tactics. There's a special place in hell for companies like this. Just wait when I get to actually talk to someone, whatever nonexistent god they believe in better protect them that day.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Rupert m
I received a letter from them. I got a red light camera violation in my name for someone else’s random car in a city I’ve never been to. The camera misread the license plate.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Michael vu
These people sent us a notice of delinquent property taxes when we didn't owe anything! This has to be illegal...
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28 Jul, 2015 by Bryant
It's been since April 2015 since I've heard from this guy and I've come out of $300 to have him take care of my speeding tickets. Every time I call I get no answer and no response to my emails. This Firm is honestly a nightmare. Yours supposed to get an email about your court days and never do.
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14 Jan, 2015 by Ashley cupito
Do not hire this attorney for anything more than a ticket! He did nothing for me .He was late to every court date i had and never even signed a letter of acceptance for my case.
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14 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
She refuses to answer questions. The attorney is horrendous, and forgets to show up in court. His mistakes caused me to have a warrant issued when he "forgot" to appear on my behalf. He is very rude, and berates his clients. I would NEVER hire this guy again! He will be out of business soon - nobody runs a business like this and gets away with it for long.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
She really sucked and it seemed like she deliberately took money from an innocent girl and never intended to fight her case. Worthless attorney
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26 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Ella me insulto siendo ciudadana , dicendome que me fuera a Mexico si no hablaba inglés !! Encerio !! Y la tengo grabada !!
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31 Aug, 2021 by Maria r.
Mrs. Cornejo López represented me in a family case. She is so intelligent and firm. She won for me & my children. Everything I asked for and then some. She is so good at what she does! I will forever recommend her to all my family and colleagues. Thank you!
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08 Nov, 2023 by Maria angel
12 May, 2023 by Duane lawrence
Very rude staff that won't follow the law
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20 Dec, 2022 by Chance turner
terribly rude staff, gives you the run around constantly, the attorney Thomas Sellers will even interrupt and hang up on you when you’re trying to clarify the debt and what you’re needing. I was told to further my “reading comprehension” and that he “doesn’t care” about my questions. He proceeded to tell me how good I had it with the debt, even though we’re still negotiating it. You sure would think they could answer some questions in trade of a 1 lump sum payment. He went on to explain how I could get around the $3000 court fee, yet any other basic question I asked, I was talked over or told that’d be legal advice.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Kayla scott
Complete JOKE! They filed suit without our permission. They do not communicate at all. They do not follow directions. And they lie! Horrible service. Do not use them unless you want your situation to get worse.
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24 Oct, 2023 by David pena
Did not show up to court. Lost all our paperwork and emailed copies 3 times. Resending not a big deal but annoying. Communication through out the whole process was horrible. Now we lost the case and it's very hard to over turn. He has promised to return our money in payments. First check was denied by the bank. And now he says I forgot. I have the emails to prove it.
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05 May, 2023 by Aja holman
BEWARE they will take your money and will not do anything!!!!
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04 Jan, 2021 by Braxton
I filled out paperwork, started a case with ARAG, they agreed they had time to take another client and wanted a consultation. Then, after the holidays, her replied back that he could not take the case. I know interns that are more professional than this guy.
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23 Sep, 2020 by Rosie
I spoke to Adam Meury as I was referred his name through my Legal Services. Adam was very nice and helpful in all my questions related to a petition my daughter received. Provided the fee’s I needed to hire him. He stated he needed to speak to my daughter first as it was regarding her. I was excited and made my daughter aware how nice he was. My daughter spoke to him and it was a totally different Adam she spoke to. He was rude to my daughter and not quite sure if it’s because she is young or not- no excuse for the way he acted. He wouldn’t let my daughter speak any more on the issue and told my daughter “He doesn’t make the laws in Texas. Good luck in finding a lawyer to represent you.” Second experience with a family lawyer in Texas and I am just shocked and amazed at how rude and dismissive they are to someone willing to pay the monies needed to hire them. I do not recommend him at all.
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01 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Unfortunately, I echo the previous reviewer. I was referred to Mr. Muery thorough Hyatt Legal (May 2019), 5 months later nothing has been completed. A request to speak to Mr. Muery directly was ignored, and emails go unanswered for several business days. I was forwarded to at least 3 associates to "quickly resolve" the lack of completion..to only have the same results...nothing completed.
Recently (Oct 2019) I called Hyatt Legal to complain about his results and they notified me that he no longer is a member....explains why he's not working on my cases.
Instead of being professional and stating he no longer accepts Hyatt Legal Members, he chose just to blow me off and let my cases go dormat.
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24 Apr, 2022 by Amy
Hiring don was the biggest mistake we could have ever made for a criminal case. He should not be working as an attorney in 2022.
You will have to yell into his hearing aid 3+ times for him to understand a simple statement you make! He is rude and does not care about his clients. DO NOT HIRE THIS MAN!
It was too late for us and he did not fight for us during our court hearing. Took the first deal, took his money from us, closed the case, and left us to suffer! He said if you need more help, we need more money but we cant help. This man should have his license revoked. He is too old to practice. He will not help you.
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07 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
1st I met Don while I was looking an attorney, they told me 40k and don charged me 4k, he is considered, he charges what is the case worth it. and he dismissed my case. then I referred my friends and family members some were unable to pay, he did not charged.All the cases I had with him were dismissed or good outcome.
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14 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Don Stewart for a family law issue that had been lingering on for over a year. Prior to hiring Don, I spent an outrageous amount of money with a different attorney that did not show me ANY results.. Don picked up my case in the middle of what was a nightmare. He was very respectful, and affordable. I have had to hire an attorney on a few separate occasions.. This was the first time that I can say I walked away not feeling completely taken advantage of. Great job Mr. Stewart.. My wife, and I are grateful for your handling of our case...
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25 Oct, 2022 by Julieta juarez
11 Jan, 2022 by Terry parvaga
Parking ticket was issued for no reason . Car was parked in front of my house. Ticket # CM27629
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06 Feb, 2021 by Loletta wells
25 Oct, 2022 by Julieta juarez
11 Jan, 2022 by Terry parvaga
Parking ticket was issued for no reason . Car was parked in front of my house. Ticket # CM27629
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06 Feb, 2021 by Loletta wells
20 Mar, 2023 by Jason
1. I asked for action on the unjustified warrant, numerous times since Chris was hired.
• No actions by Chris
• No follow up to email, calls or text.
2. I asked on 09-06-22 for a stop to a criminal trespassing warning (and weekly thereafter).
• No actions by Chris
• I had a 3rd party stop the criminal trespassing in a single email on 11-02-22.
3. I asked for a dismissal of my case on 11-29-22 over APPD contacting the Judge via email.
• No action was ever taken by Chris.
• No follow up to email, calls or text.
4. I asked for Chris to dismiss the trial since city did not follow charter numerous times.
• No action by Chris.
• No follow up to email, calls or text.
5. I asked for a speedy trial numerous times.
• No actions taken by Chris.
• No follow up to email, calls or text.
6. All the above can be verified through emails, text etc.
Chris Gale didn't not complete a single task I asked for and charged me 9k.
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08 Oct, 2021 by Ryant
I’m annoyed I have to even give this man and woman a star. They gave me the worst experience of my life. I paid this man 1500 for a 20 min hearing where he was told do not put me on stand due to my anxiety and mental illnesses. The first thing he does is put me on stand and then I have 3 felony charges of perjury. Don’t they teach you if you don’t know what your client is going to say don’t put them on the stand . That mistake led me to get a 6 year sentence and my probation revoked. Gale even charged me additional 7k for the new charges if you can believe that. He was paid in full 4K on a misdemeanor and paid for small hearings separately. While I was incarcerated for 5 months he never once came to see me to discuss my case , the only time he called the jail is when he thought I was going to fire him. He didn’t even come then he sent some random lady. When I talked to him on phone from jail when I called him it was always about more money absolutely nothing about my case. This man took my money then withdrew from my cases leaving me hanging in jail with no attorney and he kept my money so I couldn’t get a new attorney. Who abandons their clients when they need them most and when their in the most troublesome situation ever. He always made me and my fiancé feel like we weren’t worth his time or he didn’t care about my case. When I spoke to him I felt like I was walking on egg shells so he didn’t explode and cuss at me and hang up on me as he did do anyway. You can’t ask this man anything he will cuss you out and try to belittle you. Amy or Chris will say your harassing them for asking a question that you paid them for advice on. I am suing him in civil jp court for the money I feel he stole from me and my family and we have also filed a grievance with the state bar of how he handled my case and the way he treated me. No one deserves to be treated this way. I hope you look elsewhere when your life and freedom is on the line. Thank god I found great attorneys and I’m in a way better situation now. I hope you don’t make the same mistake that I did hiring this firm. Many inmates in the jail that I spoke who gale represents feel abandoned as well I can’t speak for all but I can speak for the ones I spoke with and it was plenty.
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22 Dec, 2020 by Gabriel
He fought hard for me from the beginning of this case and still fighting hard now....his momentum hasn't slowed down....
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10 Oct, 2022 by Andres miranda
20 Jan, 2022 by Anon ymous
Not worth your time
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14 Sep, 2021 by Sophia sashencka
26 May, 2023 by Rex
In April 2022, Beth Ardanowski was paid a $5000 fee to update my will, create two trusts and provide legal advice. After eight months, she completed none of these tasks and has not replied to my last four emails requesting a settlement statement on my account. I'm not asserting that she is unqualified. I just feel it important to share my experience, which was poor.
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30 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Paid her retainer and did not return my emails or phone calls. Horrible representation and, in my opinion, is one of the worst attorneys I have worked with.
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22 Oct, 2015 by Lawrence
Beth is a great attorney to have on your side. She is very reasonable and cuts through all the nonsense that most attorneys enjoy getting wrapped up in. She represented my business in a divorce case and ended up doing a better job than my personal family attorney because she did not play the "family court games" that the other family attorneys did.
Since my divorce, I have turned to Beth for help with agreements, contracts, and other general business legal advice. Beth is not your typical attorney, she doesn't waste your time trying to keep the meter running, she has an eagle eye for details, and you will never get the attorney ego attitude with her. When you are tired of playing games with other attorneys, hire Beth so you can take care of business rather than getting lost in the legalese.
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04 Dec, 2023 by Arthur martinez
15 Sep, 2023 by Jabella j
The attorney I was giving is doing a terrible job with my case. The public defense office has really failed me.I have reached out to the supervisor and never received a response.
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15 Sep, 2023 by Teranique caldwell
Blue Ware and Scott Ruplinger saved my life on so many different occasions I couldn't be more grateful for them they worked really hard on my Cases and fought for me like no other I thank them and i hope this will be helpful to others because these 2 attorneys excuse my language but are badass :)
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27 Jul, 2015 by David
hired him late Feb. 09 for breach of contract he turned it into on job injury then sat on breach of contract (never returned my calls) then passed statue of limitations even lost injury case would't put me on witness stand
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03 Feb, 2014 by Ravan
Alan could not have described him better! He takes every case personal. He takes time in research and never leaves a 'T' uncrossed. I would and have recommended him to anyone! He knows the law but never uses it to patronize his clients. In my opinion, he is the best!
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12 Aug, 2013 by Miguel
Mr. Miller is the worst attorney I have ever dealt with. He is sloppy and makes lots of mistakes. He is not always truthful and is not professional. Even when he doesn't know what he is talking about, he acts like he does. Under no circumstances would I recommend using Mr. Miller. I wish I had read the other comments on Mr. Miller. I guess that is why this site exists!
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12 Jun, 2023 by Lora cantu
Didn't help me 😭 n what I needed didn't even give me a chance to explain my situation
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04 Jan, 2023 by Drew h
I don’t see how this guy is in business. He exudes apathy. Every interaction I’ve had with him just seemed like he couldn’t care less or was bothered. I felt like a huge imposition just from contacting him to consult on my case.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Vernell boson
Nice environment and safe.
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15 Mar, 2022 by Ricquecenol
To me he is a professional in what he does. His a good lawyer who will fight for you to win.
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28 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Sherman is a ghost I hired him for a car accident case and I have yet to meet him. My case has been going for 7 months not once has he contacted me to let me know what is going on. I constantly call the law office and get the same person i guess his assistant Apollo who is as helpful as a wet dishrag. He never knows where Mr. Sherman is and they never check their voicemail as the mailbox is always full. My case is finally settled and I have to now share money with them and their bootleg chiropractor for services that were not beneficial to me. They are only looking out to assist themselves. If I would have known better. I would have just talked to the person's insurance company on my own. This was a waste of my time and they still have not given me my settlement amount although the insurance company has sent them a check. I will NEVER WORK WITH THIS MAN AGAIN!!!! BEWARE!!!!
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29 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
I retained Sherman for a car accident I had in May of 2012. After many failed attempts to reach Mr. Sherman now approaching past a year in counting, I can honestly say do not retain this attorney. Besides not being able to reach him, and my lack of knowledge in his record for his public reprimand.
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29 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
This attorney is personable and smart! He, however, is a last minute filer or a "minutes before the deadline attorney". Also, his office staff habitually lost copies of pertinent and confidential information. In several instances, I had to, not only, reissue copies of documents I had already submitted (4 times to be exact), but also, edit their own papers earmarked for court, I.e., correct facts, grammar and typographical errors (again, minutes before they were due). When brought to this lawyer's attention, his response was to pass blame by accusing me of not following through with his recommendations (in which proof, that I had, lay in the massive documents that had been in his possession for more than two years). That stated, this attorney waited almost two years to file--meaning, just before the statue of limitations were to run out. To be exact, he filed the first time, less than five days before the deadline. He continued the pattern with the appeal, filing it only minutes before the courts closed for the holidays. It became apparent, from where I sat, that he was neither cognizant of documents in his possession ; nor, had he, by any means, read materials thoroughly enough for a clear understanding of the issues, which is a possible reason why a
straightforward enough case, morphed into something other than the inital complaint. Finally, for all of the aforementioned, it is my sincere belief, that the perceived profitability of my case, trumped justice, fairness and just plain common decency! I have suffered great losses due to this attorney's negligence. I have, however, learned to pay attention to warnings offered by those who, before me, have experienced similar or the exact same treatment!
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18 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Fisher back in 1996 for a citizenship case pay for attorney fees inmmigration fees. And after 2 years I give up,never hed eny ansuers and never have my money back I suspect hi never did any thing, after that I don't recommend his office to nowbady
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24 Sep, 2021 by Frank k
After already paid little over 17K attorney fees I was presented with a new 8K bill to set a day hearing in the District Court.
As you guessed Mr. George May is not any longer representing me any longer.
Be careful whom you hire. Will post more comment on social sites ...
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19 Jun, 2022 by Andrew
This man takes your money then does nothing he doesn't work on a contingency basis so I doubt if he's ever won a case. Also he graduated from a 4th tier law school and it shows.
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23 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
This is a horrible attorney, I reported him to the bar of Texas and of course they did nothing, He even went as far as to slander me before the bar of Texas, Believe me this man doesn't have your best interests at heart only what makes him money, I have had Great experiences with another attorney, this was not one of them, If your smart you will use another attorney!!
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22 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
This is a volume business..A cottage industry. If you get to meet with the chief lawyer, you will be the recipient of a favor. Intakes are handled by non lawyers or, if you are fortunate a an associate.
What struck me was the complete lack of compassion for my case and my medical condition.
My confidence in this lawyer is zero.
It is all about the money.
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27 May, 2024 by Kelly jones
International "legal giant" Holland Knight has continuously refused to provide my legal files while abetting Alex "Sandy Hook" Jones's ongoing conspiracy with their former law partner Eric Taube whom they continued to advertise as a "trusted advisor" while having transcripts of Taube's inconsistent sworn statements/perjury in the hearing on my Motion to Disqualify in in U.S. Bankruptcy Court (Tex. W. D. Bank. 20-10118) when he appeared directly adverse to my interests (while concurrently representing me in ravis Co. TX Case No. D-1-GN-07-000618), which he directly countermanded when impeached in Travis Co. TX Case No. D-1-GN-18-001610, admitting that he did represent me. This fraud is not just bad for me, but it involves property that Taube conspiratorially formed in breaches of duty to me and to the entities he advised me to form, one of which he represented (without waiver or disclosure of conflict of interest (Free Speech Systems, LLC)) with Alex Jones, David Jones, and Carol Jones, whose tortious interference, fiduciary breaches, fraudulent transfers and fraud have been ongoing for over ten years. Holland Knight is based in the UK and its intentional bad acts of its and its Deputy Counsel's actual knowledge are contributory to alleged ongoing bankruptcy fraud in Tex. S. D. Bank. 22-33543. Contact me, FBI, DOJ, - Kelly Morales P/K/A Kelly Jones. I would not say these things about a massive international law firm if I could not prove it (very easily). Texas AG, Holland Knight has abetted the alleged falsification of government documents of its knowledge and fraud on the US Bankruptcy Court. Please contact me and please pursue all necessary temporary and permanent iinjunctive relieve to protect Texans from Holland Knight. The property that has been continuously defrauded of me and of the entities in which I hold interest has constituted hundreds of millions of dollars made without authority by copyright and trademark infringement, at best (and alleged copyright counterfeit, among other things.)
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25 Aug, 2023 by Gio guzman
This Attorney Neil Meinzer that works at this firm . Is a complete jerk. And unprofessional. He laughed in my face after driving three times to his office from Houston. To collect a settlement check . He abused his power as attorney and humiliated me . I will be filing a complaint with the bar . I don’t recommend this firm.
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18 Jun, 2014 by Kathy
Mr Thomas was MIA after the initial probate. He did not file the proper papers and left me with a citation to appear in court to explain why I had not fulfilled my duties without proper representation. He also did not give proper information to the client before she died to file out the proper forms to have estate dispersed as she wanted. I would not recommend him to anyone.
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23 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
He may be good at other things he does like pushing paperwork, but as an advocate and as a defender he's not a good choice for an attorney. He was hired to defend me in a harassment suit and quit in the middle leaving me without representation and exposed legally. His reason for not continuing, "I don't want to be involved in a high profile case".
Beyond that, he never returned called, emailed me back, etc. in a timely manner and was quite unpleasant and near rude in some instances. I paid him in full but not without resentment for his shoddy work.
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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.
