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05 Feb, 2025 by Javier rodriguez
Very knowledgeable and extremely skilled attorney! Highly recommended.
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05 Feb, 2025 by Stefon
Aaron is amazing lawyer who really looks out for his clients and care about helping. His consultations and care really put me in was that I was in good hands.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Jeremy scott
Very professional and information on situation and explaining the situation is luxury service
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23 Feb, 2021 by Natalie amoils
18 Apr, 2020 by Brendan g
18 Apr, 2020 by Deborah poulter
24 Jan, 2025 by Michael gray
Alex was the best, always communicating with me and helped me out more than he needed to. I will always keep Alex as my lawyer if I happen to get injured again. Thanks again Alex.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Reese taylor
When I was visiting my younger brother in Corona, we were faced with a serious situation which required us to hire an attorney........ I highly recommend Sharen to anyone seeking legal assistance in California. Sharen was extremely professional, and knowledgeable, and always went the extra mile to support me in my case. Her legal expertise and ability to communicate effectively made a world of difference in my case. If you need an attorney who truly cares about her clients, she's the one!
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18 Dec, 2024 by Michael `bates
We were referred to California Legal Counsel through a family friend. Sharen and her team were attentive and dedicated from the initial phone call until final ruling! Sharen extreme expertise and professionalism where on full display in dealing with the courts. We are very happy with the outcome of my niece personal criminal case. Sharen truly acted in our best interest at all times. If you are in need of legal counsel, we definitely recommend Sharen and California Legal Counsel. Thanks again to Sharen and the team!!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Ethan law
Nazanin is one of the best lawyers I've met! She supplied us with intensive, realistic insight on how our case would go on such short notice. She was incredibly timely and did everything she could for our case and got it approved. Definitely our go-to going forward!
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24 Nov, 2024 by Mohammad abedinzadeh
16 Apr, 2024 by Parviz sadeghi
30 Oct, 2024 by Jonathan
Andra gave me amazing advice about my IP situation for free and prevented me from making a huge mistake on selecting a trademark that might have infringed on someone else's trademark. She also is very knowledgeable about patents and copyrights. She is very honest and helpful. I highly recommend her.
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21 Aug, 2023 by Scott thomas
Very helpfull, Andra answered my questions and got me on my way. I am changing my business name and she gave some ideas on what to do.
Thank you.
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17 Nov, 2020 by Leo
Andra was very helpful in answering my questions about trademark infringement. She was very quick in responding to my inquiry and I would recommend her to anyone seeking legal assistance with patent and trademark laws
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18 Dec, 2024 by Marisa
I can’t say enough great things about Dinah Perez. She is such a fierce advocate. From the moment I started working with her, Dinah fought tirelessly on my behalf. She puts her whole heart into what she does and successfully handled the situation I was dealing with while maintaining the utmost professionalism.
Dinah’s dedication to her clients is unmatched—she’s not only thorough and detail-oriented but also genuinely cares about her clients’ well-being. She always kept me informed, was quick to respond to my questions, and handled everything with such precision and grace. I felt completely confident with her in my corner.
If you’re looking for a lawyer who is tenacious, compassionate, and brilliant at what she does, Dinah is the one to call. I am so grateful for her expertise and highly recommend her!
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23 Dec, 2023 by G
Came to her with a situation has been going on decades. Where other lawyers confused the situation she was direct with me and within 2 weeks, done! No bs, fairly priced.
I feel very lucky i found her
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16 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Dinah was very informative and helpful from day one. She gave me excellent valuable guidance and information to be sure I was well informed before making any decision. If you are looking for excellent representation from an experienced straight forward attorney then Dinah is it
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20 Sep, 2020 by Debbie
Connor is a great attorney. He knows the law, is a patient and compassionate listener. He kept me in the loop on a regular basis and I rarely had to reach out to him for an update on my case. I trusted his judgement, advice, and followed his lead for a very successful resolution. I highly recommend this attorney. Thank you Connor!
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09 Apr, 2020 by Andrea
Brian Grossman represented me on a contract dispute. The company I worked for as a 1099 contractor breached the contract and refused to pay over 150K due in commissions. Brian Grossman is brilliant, efficient, fair on billing, and writes briefs, motions, and legal content to judges and adversaries in a highly effective succinct manner yielding the greatest results. I recommend him highly to anyone seeking to win their case.
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04 Mar, 2023 by Raul gonzalez
Frances and Dennis are great professionals that will truly help you through the hard complicated immigration process and they won’t deceive you. My husbands immigration process was resolved in only 2 months!!!!
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17 Jan, 2023 by Maria micha
If you are looking for a caring and competent immigration lawyer who can make your dreams come true, look no further. Hayden Immigration performs miracles. My visa approval process was seamless and successful. Frances Hayden was present in a professional manner throughout the process guiding me and offering valuable advice. She is the wizard of immigration services.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Daniel doyle
My wife Suzanne and I were working with an Immigration Lawyer out of Pittsburgh Pensilvania for almost a year, and at a critical time when documents were going to be submitted to apply for my wife’s access into the US for emergency surgery with a doctor that was highly recommended for her condition, our attorney dropped the ball. She wasn’t answering phone calls or emails and left us high and dry, we were absolutely gobsmacked !
Pulling our hair out and desperate we did some research and found an immigration attorney who recommended Frances from Hayden Law for our particular situation !
I’m a successful businessman and pedantic about doing things on time, doing them right and as seamless as possible, and I experience so much lack of customer service everywhere these days, as a matter of fact pure incompetence which drives me crazy and as we experienced with the attorney from Pittsburgh just absolute neglect !
We are blown away by Hayden Laws experience, knowledge, empathy, determination, ethics, integrity, care, and just the ability to get results in an incredibly timely manner, everything completed and visa approved in around a five week period !
My wife Suzanne and I highly recommend Frances and the team at Hayden Law to handle any of immigration needs !
Thank you so much Frances, you are literally a life saver !
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24 Jun, 2019 by David spivak
I have practiced employment law for almost 25 years. When I have questions about judgment collection and bankruptcy matters, I call Ben Nachimson. He's fantastic.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Mason orr
Alicia was very helpful Communication was amazing, she kept me informed on my lawsuit every step of the way. Very kind and friendly, always answered any questions I had. The law team worked very hard to get me a fair settlement for my case thanks to everyone!!
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02 Dec, 2024 by Kentonia walker
This law firm definitely deserves a five star rating. They are very reliable and consistent with their work. Would definitely recommend to my family and friends.
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31 Oct, 2024 by El compadre restaurant
Agradezco por su servicio la verdad muy satisfecha Karla es una excelente persona siempre al pendiente de mi caso. Gracias a todo su equipo que son muy competentes y atentos pero agradezco en especial a la señorita Karla por todo su apoyo en estos momentos tan difíciles.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Landyn rafael
I paid him $5000. Once he received the money he was MIA more often than not. His receptionist gave one excuse after another and would tell me that I had exceeded "talk time" provided by the retainer although my records indicated otherwise. On the few occasions that I was able to speak with him he claimed he had Covid or RSV. I later heard this was one of his standard excuses.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Nariman nassiri
I had the pleasure of working with Pacific Health Law Firm and I can honestly say that their team went above and beyond in handling my case. From the very first consultation, I was impressed with their professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine concern for my situation. The attorneys took the time to thoroughly explain the legal process, keeping me informed every step of the way. Their expertise and dedication were evident, and I felt supported throughout the entire process. I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of legal assistance. They truly care about their clients and deliver results.
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28 Nov, 2024 by Lila k
I recently worked with Levi, Jennifer and their team on acquiring a dental practice and was really blown away by both the professionalism and ease with which they conducted their work. Levi is super responsive and I really felt prioritized as a client. I would highly recommend working with Pacific Health Law Group. You will not regret your decision.
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07 Jan, 2025 by Bahram zad
Devin Sawdayi made the bankruptcy process smooth and stress-free with their professionalism and expertise. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of a reliable attorney.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Brad kohler
I recently had a wage question and I was contacted by Jeff Ponting who grossly exceeded my expectations regarding the information he provided me. Not only did he share his expertise, but took the time to confer with other attorney's with more experience in the field to make sure I was give the more correct and up to date information possible. His information was helpful and deeply appreciated.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Ravi sareen
Very professional and are very thorough in their work due to which they were able to get our case decided in our favour.
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06 Nov, 2024 by David
I was looking around for a bankruptcy lawyer and glad I ended up going here.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Sun tzu
Bereliani Law Firm went beyond my expectations!
Sanaz has a good team and thorough system to ensure your bankruptcy gets finalized.
I am self employed, my case was more in depth.
I interviewed several attorneys in San Diego and LA area and they were suggesting Chapter 13 and avoiding chapter 7 because of my equity in my home, they said I was limited on exemptions ie and my vehicle and personal property were at risk!
Sanaz is very creative with creating and interpreting exemptions that the other attorneys NEVER mentioned and or understood, interpreting exemptions is very important, ie “Commercial Work Vehicle” (Truck) verses “vehicle”, that changed the game, the trustee wanted more money for my work truck and was also trying me on personal property and Sanaz put them in check!
She got my Chapter 7 discharged, I kept my condo equity, I owed nothing for my commercial work truck and personal items.
The other attorneys I interviewed were ok with having me agree to make an uncomfortable stressful payment plan to make it easy for them to file chapter 13….
Sanaz and her team tolerated all my calls and emails = STRESS and got me through it.
Sanaz and her team are the ones you want to represent you!!! Worth every dollar!!!
Thank you Sanaz!!!
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23 Mar, 2024 by David saghian
Very professional practice and firm.
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4.7
157 Reviews
09 Dec, 2024 by Erica
Definitely would not recommend using Judge Amy Pellman for mediation services. She was incredibly biased from the start and made an unprofessional comment within 10 minutes of the session starting. Should’ve ended it there instead of wasting an entire day making zero progress on any kind of settlement. She was only interested in assisting one side on their goals, and did not advocate for me on any points. She might’ve been a great judge but clearly needs some more experience in mediation, where the purpose is to try and reach an agreement between both parties- not decide who she thinks is right and pursue their interests only. We hired another mediator after this failed session and had immediate success with them.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Michael masella
Don't have enough great things to say about this lawfirm, Seppi & his team walked me through all the steps to get me out of trouble. Little over a year later and completed. Thanks Everyone. ~Mike
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31 Oct, 2024 by Yours truly, elle
I am so blessed to have found Lawyer Seppi! I have never been in this situation where I needed a lawyer and don’t plan to ever again, but Seppi made this experience as easy as possible. And after meeting Seppi in his office, I felt even better because he was so kind, personable, patient, and understanding. He answered every question I had and kept me updated. I listened to every word he said, and because of that my case was dismissed before our court date and I remain with a completely clean record! I cannot thank this law firm enough!!!
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4.7
157 Reviews
09 Dec, 2024 by Erica
Definitely would not recommend using Judge Amy Pellman for mediation services. She was incredibly biased from the start and made an unprofessional comment within 10 minutes of the session starting. Should’ve ended it there instead of wasting an entire day making zero progress on any kind of settlement. She was only interested in assisting one side on their goals, and did not advocate for me on any points. She might’ve been a great judge but clearly needs some more experience in mediation, where the purpose is to try and reach an agreement between both parties- not decide who she thinks is right and pursue their interests only. We hired another mediator after this failed session and had immediate success with them.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Michael masella
Don't have enough great things to say about this lawfirm, Seppi & his team walked me through all the steps to get me out of trouble. Little over a year later and completed. Thanks Everyone. ~Mike
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31 Oct, 2024 by Yours truly, elle
I am so blessed to have found Lawyer Seppi! I have never been in this situation where I needed a lawyer and don’t plan to ever again, but Seppi made this experience as easy as possible. And after meeting Seppi in his office, I felt even better because he was so kind, personable, patient, and understanding. He answered every question I had and kept me updated. I listened to every word he said, and because of that my case was dismissed before our court date and I remain with a completely clean record! I cannot thank this law firm enough!!!
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4.7
157 Reviews
09 Dec, 2024 by Erica
Definitely would not recommend using Judge Amy Pellman for mediation services. She was incredibly biased from the start and made an unprofessional comment within 10 minutes of the session starting. Should’ve ended it there instead of wasting an entire day making zero progress on any kind of settlement. She was only interested in assisting one side on their goals, and did not advocate for me on any points. She might’ve been a great judge but clearly needs some more experience in mediation, where the purpose is to try and reach an agreement between both parties- not decide who she thinks is right and pursue their interests only. We hired another mediator after this failed session and had immediate success with them.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Michael masella
Don't have enough great things to say about this lawfirm, Seppi & his team walked me through all the steps to get me out of trouble. Little over a year later and completed. Thanks Everyone. ~Mike
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31 Oct, 2024 by Yours truly, elle
I am so blessed to have found Lawyer Seppi! I have never been in this situation where I needed a lawyer and don’t plan to ever again, but Seppi made this experience as easy as possible. And after meeting Seppi in his office, I felt even better because he was so kind, personable, patient, and understanding. He answered every question I had and kept me updated. I listened to every word he said, and because of that my case was dismissed before our court date and I remain with a completely clean record! I cannot thank this law firm enough!!!
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4.7
157 Reviews
09 Dec, 2024 by Erica
Definitely would not recommend using Judge Amy Pellman for mediation services. She was incredibly biased from the start and made an unprofessional comment within 10 minutes of the session starting. Should’ve ended it there instead of wasting an entire day making zero progress on any kind of settlement. She was only interested in assisting one side on their goals, and did not advocate for me on any points. She might’ve been a great judge but clearly needs some more experience in mediation, where the purpose is to try and reach an agreement between both parties- not decide who she thinks is right and pursue their interests only. We hired another mediator after this failed session and had immediate success with them.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Michael masella
Don't have enough great things to say about this lawfirm, Seppi & his team walked me through all the steps to get me out of trouble. Little over a year later and completed. Thanks Everyone. ~Mike
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31 Oct, 2024 by Yours truly, elle
I am so blessed to have found Lawyer Seppi! I have never been in this situation where I needed a lawyer and don’t plan to ever again, but Seppi made this experience as easy as possible. And after meeting Seppi in his office, I felt even better because he was so kind, personable, patient, and understanding. He answered every question I had and kept me updated. I listened to every word he said, and because of that my case was dismissed before our court date and I remain with a completely clean record! I cannot thank this law firm enough!!!
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Erica
Definitely would not recommend using Judge Amy Pellman for mediation services. She was incredibly biased from the start and made an unprofessional comment within 10 minutes of the session starting. Should’ve ended it there instead of wasting an entire day making zero progress on any kind of settlement. She was only interested in assisting one side on their goals, and did not advocate for me on any points. She might’ve been a great judge but clearly needs some more experience in mediation, where the purpose is to try and reach an agreement between both parties- not decide who she thinks is right and pursue their interests only. We hired another mediator after this failed session and had immediate success with them.
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Michael masella
Don't have enough great things to say about this lawfirm, Seppi & his team walked me through all the steps to get me out of trouble. Little over a year later and completed. Thanks Everyone. ~Mike
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31 Oct, 2024 by Yours truly, elle
I am so blessed to have found Lawyer Seppi! I have never been in this situation where I needed a lawyer and don’t plan to ever again, but Seppi made this experience as easy as possible. And after meeting Seppi in his office, I felt even better because he was so kind, personable, patient, and understanding. He answered every question I had and kept me updated. I listened to every word he said, and because of that my case was dismissed before our court date and I remain with a completely clean record! I cannot thank this law firm enough!!!
Read more
4.7
157 Reviews
09 Dec, 2024 by Erica
Definitely would not recommend using Judge Amy Pellman for mediation services. She was incredibly biased from the start and made an unprofessional comment within 10 minutes of the session starting. Should’ve ended it there instead of wasting an entire day making zero progress on any kind of settlement. She was only interested in assisting one side on their goals, and did not advocate for me on any points. She might’ve been a great judge but clearly needs some more experience in mediation, where the purpose is to try and reach an agreement between both parties- not decide who she thinks is right and pursue their interests only. We hired another mediator after this failed session and had immediate success with them.
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Michael masella
Don't have enough great things to say about this lawfirm, Seppi & his team walked me through all the steps to get me out of trouble. Little over a year later and completed. Thanks Everyone. ~Mike
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31 Oct, 2024 by Yours truly, elle
I am so blessed to have found Lawyer Seppi! I have never been in this situation where I needed a lawyer and don’t plan to ever again, but Seppi made this experience as easy as possible. And after meeting Seppi in his office, I felt even better because he was so kind, personable, patient, and understanding. He answered every question I had and kept me updated. I listened to every word he said, and because of that my case was dismissed before our court date and I remain with a completely clean record! I cannot thank this law firm enough!!!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Efe kiracı
Greetings can you please get back to me I have an urgent case I am short on time
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22 Jul, 2024 by Sebastian harrison
Worst most unethical attorney I have had the displeasure to have been associated with. He was my former wife's first attorney (until she fired him). Does the typical dance that unethical family law attorneys do which is to try to create chaos and havoc and hatred. We were attempting to have an amicable divorce but he did everything in his power (lying, restraining order) to cause a war. He even, get this as this is unbelievable, whispered in the ear of my attorney, "should we get them to sell the property." I overheard this in the hall of the courthouse. It was well discussed that the mutually owned property was going to be put in a trust for our son. He even admitted that he makes more money litigating.
Word of caution, with his smooth talking and accent he can be convincing but don't believe a word he says.
Don't say I didn't warn you.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Vadi efe
We had a consultation call with Mr Agopoglu - he is very helpful and gave us valuable feedback, including legal aspects, way of working and best practices in family law. Highly recommended.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Lupita cano
Gracias a Bedford Law Group estoy muy agradecida, todo el personal son muy amables siempre contestan a todas mis preguntas es por eso que los recomiendo cien por ciento.
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12 Oct, 2024 by Imari meyer
I am so grateful for Shawn Azizzadeh and Bedford law! They took care of my case very quickly, were very communicative, and I got all the care that I needed as result from the damages caused to me by my case.
Mayuri de la Cruz is another honorable mention - she scheduled me with the best doctors to fit my needs and I am so grateful for her and all her hard work 🤩🤩🤩
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11 Oct, 2024 by Mgalarraga05
Shawn and his team provided excellent representation. I highly recommend them.
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27 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
I had him file a copyright infringement and later a PI case. He did a great job and finalized my case exactly the way I wanted it.
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26 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
Amazing service! Honest and provied services my best interest and not his own!
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06 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Jamshidi from Sion and Associates represented our company in a personal injury claim recently and did a great job. He appeared very capable and did a thorough job in gathering and presenting the facts of our case. After an employee had filed a claim against us for an ACL injury, Mr. Jamshidi and his team were able to find and acquire video evidence that helped rid us of any fault. Mr. Jamshidi kept our company informed throughout the length of the case and was always very easy to reach if any questions came up. I would definitely recommend Mr. Jamshidi and his team at Sion and Associates for any personal injury or industrial injury claims.
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15 Feb, 2022 by Suzanne raina
I've been referring cases to Merino Yebri since 2016, to both Alex and Sam. They are prompt at communication, thorough in their analyses, and fight hard for their clients. My clients, friends, and contacts whom I've referred have been happy with their representation, and they honorably pay referral fees. Highly recommend.
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13 Nov, 2014 by R g
Best legal experience I've ever had. Sam is hard working and truly cares.
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15 Feb, 2022 by Suzanne raina
I've been referring cases to Merino Yebri since 2016, to both Alex and Sam. They are prompt at communication, thorough in their analyses, and fight hard for their clients. My clients, friends, and contacts whom I've referred have been happy with their representation, and they honorably pay referral fees. Highly recommend.
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13 Nov, 2014 by R g
Best legal experience I've ever had. Sam is hard working and truly cares.
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22 Mar, 2012 by Blake purdy
I was in the market for a great trial lawyer to represent me in a unique federal criminal case that threatened my company reputation and my livelihood. After having interviewed several lawyers in Los Angeles, few had the experience or the knowledge on how to handle my case. Furthermore, I simply didn't feel that any of the lawyers I had interviewed were actually in the business to defend me, but rather to "represent me". I just couldn't hire anyone that wasn't completely on my side in this matter. I had been interviewing attorneys for a week when I came to learn about Robin Scroggie from different sources throughout my search. People that knew him had good things to say about him, and he was known in the federal courts. My pre-trial services officer had even heard about him. I called him on the phone, and had an immediate connection. After hearing me out, I met up with him the next day and I was happy to see Robin was already forming ideas of "defense" for my case. He was eager and willing to work with me, and was confident on his approach. This was the kind of attorney I needed. Robin is a trial lawyer that isn't afraid to take on the United States of America when the challenge presents itself. He was willing to work with me. He took my side and believed my innocence. I hired Robin, and we came out on top. All charges were dropped and the case was dismissed prior to trial. Justice was served, and I have Robin to thank for the best results ever! Thank you Robin, and I wish you all the best.
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22 Mar, 2012 by Blake purdy
I was in the market for a great trial lawyer to represent me in a unique federal criminal case that threatened my company reputation and my livelihood. After having interviewed several lawyers in Los Angeles, few had the experience or the knowledge on how to handle my case. Furthermore, I simply didn't feel that any of the lawyers I had interviewed were actually in the business to defend me, but rather to "represent me". I just couldn't hire anyone that wasn't completely on my side in this matter. I had been interviewing attorneys for a week when I came to learn about Robin Scroggie from different sources throughout my search. People that knew him had good things to say about him, and he was known in the federal courts. My pre-trial services officer had even heard about him. I called him on the phone, and had an immediate connection. After hearing me out, I met up with him the next day and I was happy to see Robin was already forming ideas of "defense" for my case. He was eager and willing to work with me, and was confident on his approach. This was the kind of attorney I needed. Robin is a trial lawyer that isn't afraid to take on the United States of America when the challenge presents itself. He was willing to work with me. He took my side and believed my innocence. I hired Robin, and we came out on top. All charges were dropped and the case was dismissed prior to trial. Justice was served, and I have Robin to thank for the best results ever! Thank you Robin, and I wish you all the best.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Mason orr
Alicia was very helpful Communication was amazing, she kept me informed on my lawsuit every step of the way. Very kind and friendly, always answered any questions I had. The law team worked very hard to get me a fair settlement for my case thanks to everyone!!
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02 Dec, 2024 by Kentonia walker
This law firm definitely deserves a five star rating. They are very reliable and consistent with their work. Would definitely recommend to my family and friends.
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31 Oct, 2024 by El compadre restaurant
Agradezco por su servicio la verdad muy satisfecha Karla es una excelente persona siempre al pendiente de mi caso. Gracias a todo su equipo que son muy competentes y atentos pero agradezco en especial a la señorita Karla por todo su apoyo en estos momentos tan difíciles.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Mason orr
Alicia was very helpful Communication was amazing, she kept me informed on my lawsuit every step of the way. Very kind and friendly, always answered any questions I had. The law team worked very hard to get me a fair settlement for my case thanks to everyone!!
Read more
02 Dec, 2024 by Kentonia walker
This law firm definitely deserves a five star rating. They are very reliable and consistent with their work. Would definitely recommend to my family and friends.
Read more
31 Oct, 2024 by El compadre restaurant
Agradezco por su servicio la verdad muy satisfecha Karla es una excelente persona siempre al pendiente de mi caso. Gracias a todo su equipo que son muy competentes y atentos pero agradezco en especial a la señorita Karla por todo su apoyo en estos momentos tan difíciles.
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Copyright Lawyer Can Do for You
A copyright lawyer specializes in helping individuals and businesses protect their creative works by navigating the complexities of copyright law. They assist with registering copyrights, enforcing rights against infringement, drafting licensing agreements, and advising on the fair use of copyrighted material. Whether you're an author, artist, musician, software developer, or content creator, a copyright lawyer can help ensure your intellectual property is legally protected and monetized appropriately.
When Should I Hire a Copyright Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a copyright lawyer in the following situations:
- Registering a copyright: While copyright protection exists upon the creation of an original work, registering your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office provides legal advantages, such as the ability to file a lawsuit for infringement and eligibility for statutory damages and attorney's fees.
- Enforcing your rights: If someone is using your work without permission, a lawyer can help you enforce your rights by sending cease and desist letters, negotiating settlements, or filing infringement lawsuits.
- Defending against infringement claims: If you're accused of infringing someone else's copyright, a lawyer can defend you by assessing the validity of the claim and representing you in negotiations or court proceedings.
- Drafting and reviewing contracts: When creating licensing agreements, work-for-hire agreements, or transferring ownership of a copyright, a lawyer can ensure the terms are legally sound and protect your interests.
- Fair use assessment: If you plan to use copyrighted material under the fair use doctrine, a lawyer can evaluate the risks and advise on compliance to prevent potential legal issues.
- International copyright concerns: If you need to protect your work internationally, a lawyer can guide you through the process of securing rights in other countries and navigating international treaties.
What Does a Copyright Lawyer Do?
A copyright lawyer provides a range of legal services related to the creation, protection, and enforcement of copyrighted works:
- Copyright registration: Assist in preparing and filing applications with the U.S. Copyright Office, ensuring all legal requirements are met for successful registration.
- Legal advice on protection strategies: Offer guidance on how to safeguard your work, including the best practices for documentation and disclosure.
- Drafting and negotiating agreements: Prepare contracts such as licensing agreements, assignments, and work-for-hire agreements to monetize your work while protecting your rights.
- Enforcement actions: Take legal steps against infringers, including sending cease and desist letters, negotiating settlements, and litigating infringement cases.
- Defense against infringement claims: Represent you if accused of infringement, developing defense strategies and handling negotiations or court proceedings.
- Fair use evaluation: Analyze whether your intended use of copyrighted material qualifies as fair use under the law, reducing the risk of infringement.
- International protection: Advise on securing copyright protection abroad and complying with international intellectual property laws and treaties.
How Are Copyright Lawyers Paid?
Copyright lawyers typically charge for their services in the following ways:
- Hourly rate: Many lawyers bill by the hour, with rates ranging from $200 to $600 or more, depending on experience and location.
- Flat fee: For straightforward tasks like filing a copyright application or drafting a simple contract, some lawyers offer flat fees, which provide cost predictability.
- Retainer: For ongoing services, a lawyer may require a retainer - a lump sum deposited in advance - against which hourly fees are charged.
- Contingency fee: In some infringement cases, especially those involving significant damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency basis, receiving a percentage (typically 25% to 40%) of any settlement or judgment.
It's important to discuss payment arrangements upfront to understand the total cost and billing practices.
How Much Does a Copyright Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a copyright lawyer varies based on the complexity of your needs:
- Copyright registration: Legal fees for preparing and filing a copyright application typically range from $250 to $1,000, plus U.S. Copyright Office filing fees (which are $45 to $85 per application as of 2024).
- Contract drafting or review: Fees for drafting or reviewing agreements can range from $500 to $2,500 or more, depending on complexity.
-
Infringement matters:
- Cease and desist letters: Sending a letter may cost between $500 and $1,500.
- Negotiations and settlements: Legal fees can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more.
- Litigation: Taking a case to court can be expensive, with costs ranging from $10,000 to over $100,000, depending on the case's complexity and duration.
- Hourly rates: Expect to pay between $200 and $600 per hour for most services.
Always request a detailed cost estimate during your initial consultation to understand the potential expenses involved.
Top Questions to Ask a Copyright Lawyer
Before hiring a copyright lawyer, consider asking the following questions:
-
What experience do you have with copyright law?
Ensure the lawyer has specific expertise in copyright matters similar to yours. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify the fee structure, including hourly rates, flat fees, or contingency fees, and any additional costs. -
What is the process for registering my copyright?
Ask about the steps involved, timelines, and what information you'll need to provide. -
How can I enforce my copyright if someone infringes it?
Discuss enforcement options, potential remedies, and the likelihood of success. -
What are the risks involved in my situation?
Whether you're protecting your work or using someone else's, understand the legal risks and how to mitigate them. -
Can you assist with international copyright protection?
If you need global protection, inquire about the lawyer's experience with international copyright laws and treaties. -
What strategies can you suggest for licensing my work?
Explore options for monetizing your copyright through licensing agreements and how to structure them effectively.
How to Check the Credibility of a Copyright Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable copyright lawyer:
- Verify their license: Check with your state's bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and in good standing.
- Review their experience: Look for lawyers who specialize in intellectual property law, particularly copyright issues.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Websites like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google Reviews can provide insights into the lawyer's reputation and client satisfaction.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients.
- Professional memberships: Membership in organizations like the American Intellectual Property Law Association (AIPLA) or the International Trademark Association (INTA) indicates a focus on intellectual property law.
- Check for certifications: Some lawyers hold certifications or advanced degrees in intellectual property law, demonstrating specialized expertise.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your initial meeting with a copyright lawyer, bring the following:
- Descriptions of your work: Provide detailed descriptions or copies of the work you wish to protect, such as manuscripts, recordings, software code, or artwork.
- Evidence of creation: Documentation that proves when and how you created the work, such as drafts, timestamps, or metadata.
- Existing agreements: Any contracts, licensing agreements, or previous registrations related to your work.
- Infringement evidence (if applicable): If someone is infringing your copyright, bring evidence like copies of the infringing material, URLs, screenshots, or witness statements.
- Questions and concerns: Prepare a list of questions about your rights, the registration process, enforcement options, and any potential legal risks.
- Goals and objectives: Be clear about what you hope to achieve, whether it's registering your work, licensing it, or taking action against an infringer.
By coming prepared, you enable the lawyer to provide accurate advice and develop an effective legal strategy tailored to your needs.
