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21 Nov, 2023 by Sande brown
They haven't answered the phone in over a year,I would like to know about my class action.
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12 Feb, 2023 by David bonner
They have worked hard for all of us involved. I think we will win this case thanks to them.
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04 Jan, 2023 by David elliott
No call back
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25 Nov, 2024 by Tammy chiera
Very unprofessional , neither Greg or his assistant ever return emails or phone calls . We spoke to Beth on the phone several times , she could never answer a single question and had no idea what was going on with our case , she just kept saying she would pass the info along to Greg and they would get back to us . This never happened . This went on for 2 months before we finally called and told her to get our documents ready for us to pick up and we would be getting another attorney . Her only response was , okay I will have them ready . No apologies for disregarding us as clients or for their total lack of communication . Now after 2 months of sitting around waiting and having nothing done , we have to start over with another attorney . Terrible customer service , stay away from this law firm .
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24 Jun, 2024 by Louis holloway
It was an absolute pleasure to work with Greg! Very professional, knowledgeable and made our closing happen on the day he said it would.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Amanda marsh
Greg is a really nice guy that helped make our home buying process go as smoothly as possible! Closing happened ON closing day and we couldn't be happier with the attorney we pick! Thanks Greg! Highly recommend!
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16 May, 2023 by Svitlana niskoklon
I want to share my gratitude for the outstanding work that Charles and Melissa did for my client whose house was in foreclosure and was about to be sold at the public auction. The situation with my client's property was very tough - his property in Queens, NY was underwater, and the bank didn't want to entertain any short payoff offers. However, Charles and Melissa put together and executed a compelling strategy involving the bankruptcy sale, which forced the mortgage bank to return to the negotiation table and allowed the client to sell the property on his terms. Charle's and Melissa's expertise in the complicated world of bankruptcy is undeniably strong; I will recommend their services to any homeowner whose house is in foreclosure and who requires similar legal representation.
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29 Jun, 2022 by Jerry barnard
Our company was forced to file Chapter 7 in the middle of the pandemic. Due to loss of business we had to relocate and deal with creditors including our landlord. Not only were we not able to pay rent, we also had bank loans that were pulling us down.
After several consultations we hired Mr. Higgs to steer us through bankruptcy proceedings so we could stay in business. His level of professionalism and the understanding made all the difference to our small business. We are happy to say we were able to keep our business and our livelihood. I would gladly give Charles Higgs 5 stars for this.
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17 Nov, 2021 by Mike johnson
Mr. Higgs is the worst attorney for bankruptcy you will ever run into in your life, he never calls you or emails you unless he needs money for something. He’s knows nothing about bankruptcy law ask the trustees he deals with over and over if front of judges he is bad and needs to be dis-barred from practicing law stay away from this lawyer terrible job on my cases... just a word to the wise STAY AWAY!!!
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01 Apr, 2024 by Viliamu fanene
I recently worked with attorney Mark Hunter and was thoroughly impressed by his exceptional skills, intelligence, and dedication. Mark's mastery of legal intricacies and his ability to strategize while navigating the complexities of my case left me in awe. His unwavering dedication to putting clients first, exemplified by his accommodating nature and personalized approach, truly set him apart. Mark's exceptional courtroom demeanor and persuasive advocacy skills were instrumental in securing a favorable outcome for my case. I wholeheartedly recommend Mark Hunter and this law firm for anyone seeking top-notch legal representation.
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01 Aug, 2023 by Zoe c
21 Jul, 2023 by Catherine w
05 Aug, 2024 by Keven faneus
I highly recommend to anybody with a serious case to speak with Mr. Duroseau, he worked extremely hard on my case and didn't let the system take me. Thank you!
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28 Apr, 2023 by Leah traub
Was my lawyer for 2 cases back to back and one was dropped the other was made into a non criminal offense. Best lawyer ever 🙌🏻
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20 Oct, 2022 by Maria r
Very rude assistant answered the phone. She hung up on me and lacked basic etiquette. Retrain your staff on how to properly speak to people!
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07 May, 2024 by Amy brent
I had the pleasure of Mr. Borrelli handling my employment matter. He is much more than I had hoped for and am very happy with the outcome. I look forward to what the future holds. Mr. Borrelli was referred to me by either the EEOC or Division of Human Rights. I highly recommend him and his firm.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Frank davis
13 Mar, 2024 by Jay lewis
To answer: I was never given the option to become a client of your firm.
Your offices reviewed my matter and declined to represent me.
I don't have a problem with this, but what does bother me (and the reason for my 1 star review) is that your attorney didn't even offer a cursory explanation of why he declined to represent me. He simply had his secretary call and tell me that he wouldn't pursue the matter.
It's a lack of basic professionalism, and bothered me enough to rate your firm 1 star.
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08 Dec, 2024 by Ryan c von sähn niarchos blavatnik romanov al saud
09 Nov, 2024 by Lexie
25 Sep, 2024 by Mohd yahiya
03 Nov, 2023 by Scott s elias
These people are some of the world’s best. They helped me every step of the way start and grow my advertising and communications business into a global powerhouse. Their advice, their practical advice, their genuine concern for our firm and its principals, their knowledge of the industry and our clients proved invaluable at every stage. And they continued to provide invaluable services when we sold our company and to its new owners. They are doing the same for the firm I work for now. Work with them. You won’t be disappointed. I’d bet you’d be as delighted as I was. They get it. As their website says, “legal mastery is essential but insufficient. Even the best lawyering must work in tandem with business realities.” They demonstrate genuine care for you, your goals and success.Most lawyers I’ve worked see all the problems, they will help you find the path thru them!!
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04 Jun, 2023 by Joshua simon
Borrower beware. If your lender is using them as counsel, they will charge you exorbitantly, not provide any type of back up to account for their billing and fail to be accountable. I would highly recommend you ask for other counsel!
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24 Feb, 2023 by Jake elder
08 Oct, 2023 by Donna sneers
Diana Haines attorney in New York sucks worst person ever !!
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20 Feb, 2023 by Steve i
24 Nov, 2022 by Xo xo
They hired Gabriel Levinson who was FIRED from Polsinelli and Blank Rome. Not sure what this narcissist told Haynes & Boone for them to extend an offer! Gabriel Levinson was previously sanctioned by different courts - not sure why firms overlook the sanctions - does he disclose them?
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25 Oct, 2023 by Sara l
We were referred to Neal Katz from the NY Bar Association. He was incredibly knowledgeable and understanding. He is direct and to the point like a classic New Yorker but had the patience to explain the situation to my family in terms we could all understand. He covered many possible scenarios and outcomes. It was apparent he is very tenured and experienced. He also had some reasonable recommendations and was not trying to upsell us on work that we had the capability to accomplish ourselves. Based on how helpful Neal was, we would use his services in the future.
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18 May, 2023 by Treasurer ncnwsi
04 Nov, 2022 by Rb akhi
12 Nov, 2024 by William hnatio
Got me a program with B felony..and let me slide $700
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10 Sep, 2024 by Mr. l
I have no idea why he has so many low reviews.
This guy was A+ in my book.
He is very clever and was able to get all the charges dismissed.
I am very happy with him and I refer him business all the time.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Chad roy
20 Oct, 2022 by Tarek abouzied
03 Jan, 2020 by Danish familay
18 Nov, 2019 by Bill talarico
Do not retain this thief. He will take your money, bill you for nonsense, then tell you that he cant represent you anymore. He took $5000 from me and didnt do anything.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Shahbaz singh
I don’t have good experience with him . I wasted my 200$ for consultation fee. Whatever he told me i know already so be careful attorneys open shop in ny like grocery stores but they don’t help . they just want easy money and easy job.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Sanjana rattu
I highly recommend this law office! The attorney has helped my family with countless cases over the years, and his expertise, professionalism, and dedication have always been remarkable. He truly care about his clients, always providing clear guidance and exceptional legal skills. Every case we’ve entrusted to him has been handled with the utmost attention to detail, and the results have consistently exceeded our expectations. Whether it's navigating complex legal issues or offering sound advice, this attorney always delivers with integrity and skill. My family is grateful for his continued support!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Gaurav sharma
Good law office
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3.5
11 Reviews
05 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
and not enough substance to our consultation. His assistant Wendy is clever; she'll never let you get a question in edge-wise, so she can't later be accused of lying to you. Their engagement letter is pretty much boilerplate/generic...never did we discuss how much I might recover. This guy Ricotta is probably the laziest person on the planet - he asks for $15k retainer, and doesn't even address what you want.
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16 Jan, 2024 by Jacqueline
He will take your money and then do little to no work on your case. He makes you feel that you have a case when you really don't. He does not return your calls after he has your money.
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14 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Whatever you do, do not hire this law firm. Tom ricotta is as crooked as they come and should be held criminally responsible for his business practices. You’ll end up with 10x more problems than you started off with. He will take your retainer, and then work against you in a way that appears that he’s working on your case in your best interest when in reality, he’s working against you.
Eg; file incorrectly, and wait until the last minute to present a case that will get dismissed for reasons he expects you to not understand.
I hired Tom ricotta on retainer and after submitting payment, he completely disappeared. He did everything in his power to malinger the submission after being completely unresponsive for weeks and months at a time. I was still working for the employer at the time and he did everything in his power to help and let them harm me as hard as they wanted without even answering/returning a call or email. He intentionally left out key aspects of the legal argument (wrongful termination, unpaid wages etc..) and strictly focused on submitting subpar discrimination case in this undermining Manner that would get dismissed. I had to spend the entire time getting attacked and retaliated on by the employer while he disappeared and allowed them, then he tried to help them get away with all these different tactics expecting me to not to understand. He waited until the last minute to dump projects in me with work he was supposed to be doing. He would surprise me with requirements at the last minute intentionally, hoping I wouldn’t be able to gather or produce what was needed to officially prove my claims or produce something that he could justify being my fault. That’s just one example of the underlying theme. The guy completely would try and mess up the case and undermine me and blame me. His intention the whole time was to burn the statute of limitations and submit a bogus claim that he understands will get dismissed but it looks like he’s fighting in your best interests. He knows what he’s doing, because he tried everything in his power to avoid me until the last minute so that after he was done blowing the case, I wouldn’t have enough time to hire someone else to legitimately address it. He works for the employer and what he does is criminal, he understands what he’s doing and he also understands how hard it will be for the people he scams to come after him or do anything to fix the damage he caused to the case in time, if you’re smart enough to even figure it out. He will blow you off and avoid you until the last minute until he can submit a case that will get dismissed and still get credit for making pretend he represented you on a case that just didn’t work out, instead of what really happened, which is he work both sides at the same time, breaching his fiduciary responsibilities and committing fraud. Good luck trying to get in touch with him while it’s happening.
Tom ricotta claims he represents employees but instead he prays in the vulnerable client base that are in need of assistance. He hopes you won’t understand the legal proceeding or anything to do with law so he can take advantage if you. I swear on everything holy it felt like I employed their lawyer because of so many factors, such as the way he would undermine my claims after he took my money and spent months pretending to be working in my case. It felt like he was relaying information about me and the case to the employer the way the employer would react to information I spoke to him about immediately.
Tom ricotta is the biggest con artist and he uses his knowledge of law to take advantage of people that employ him clearly expecting them to be unaware of what he's actually doing. Do yourself a favor and DO NOT hire Tom ricotta
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23 Mar, 2021 by Deborah lerner
I heard good things about them another lawer suggest them l really do need help
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22 Dec, 2020 by Angela sowell
My order was correct our food was delicious.
Closed for dine-in due to covid-19.
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02 Nov, 2020 by Charles watson
To busy for me said they would get back to me. .not holding my breath..
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08 Dec, 2024 by Ryan c von sähn niarchos blavatnik romanov al saud
09 Nov, 2024 by Lexie
25 Sep, 2024 by Mohd yahiya
14 Feb, 2025 by Txcat sailor
19 May, 2021 by Nicole van der tuin
24 Oct, 2019 by Mby by
14 Feb, 2025 by Txcat sailor
19 May, 2021 by Nicole van der tuin
24 Oct, 2019 by Mby by
08 Oct, 2023 by Donna sneers
Diana Haines attorney in New York sucks worst person ever !!
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20 Feb, 2023 by Steve i
24 Nov, 2022 by Xo xo
They hired Gabriel Levinson who was FIRED from Polsinelli and Blank Rome. Not sure what this narcissist told Haynes & Boone for them to extend an offer! Gabriel Levinson was previously sanctioned by different courts - not sure why firms overlook the sanctions - does he disclose them?
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16 Feb, 2024 by Sherry
This lawyer is not experienced with tenant-and-landlord eviction, Not knowledgeable, dishonest and not professional. He messed up the notices and petitions, and the package was not returned and dismissed by the court. the worst.
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12 Jul, 2023 by Anthony
I was not happy with the service provided by Jean-Paul Cass relating to my landlord-tenant issue. My opinion of him is that he is not knowledgable or professional on the issues.
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30 Jun, 2023 by Nabeela
I spoke to several lawyers before JP, but I had trouble explaining my case. But with JP- he understood my civil case against my co-op residence in less than 5mins of our call, and wrote me a prompt demand letter same day which resulted in my matter being resolved within one day.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Romano reid
Ari Mor has an impeccable record of winning 🏆 cases involving landlord tenant issues. This is definitely an attorney whose moral compass exceeds expectations. I’d personally recommend Ari to any and everyone
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12 Dec, 2024 by Sahid jun
Absolutely do not use andrew park pc services AT ALL! yes you see them on billboard advertisements, however I believe this firm is selfish for only the money and doesn’t care for minor car accident cases. Also Juliana Serrat, the negotiations rep is obnoxiously inconsiderate. Trust, lawyer up with a different firm you have a greater success with another firm thank you.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Theone
Reviews say that they have a lot of staff but I have experienced a lot of lack of communication. I call lots of times & get no answer, I leave voicemails & no one calls back. I email them & no one replies. How are you supposed to communicate anything about your case, questions or concerns if no contacts you back!
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08 Jul, 2021 by Business credit now
Rude and unprofessional .
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21 Jul, 2020 by Rodnell stewart
13 Jan, 2025 by Nicholas roediger
Lawyer David Zelman will mess up your case. Stay away.
Find another lawyer.
Same situation as when you go to a bad dentist.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Jack iugaze
This lawyer David Zelman took my son’s Civil Rights case against the NYPD in Federal Court and then went onto dismiss my son’s Civil Rights without notifying him.
This lawyer should be disbarred.
Maybe he works for the police or the city?
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06 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
SCAM LAWYER, DISRESPECTFUL, WILL CAUSE YOU MORE DAMAGE TO YOUR CASE, LOOK ELSEWHERE FOR ANY OTHER LAWYER - AS THEY WILL BE BETTER THAN THIS CROOK.
DAVID ZELAM IS A FRUAD.
DAVID ZELMAM LIES.
DAVID ZELMAN SHOULD BE DISBARRED.
DAVID ZELMAN IS A HORRIBLE PERSON
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12 Nov, 2024 by William hnatio
Got me a program with B felony..and let me slide $700
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10 Sep, 2024 by Mr. l
I have no idea why he has so many low reviews.
This guy was A+ in my book.
He is very clever and was able to get all the charges dismissed.
I am very happy with him and I refer him business all the time.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Chad roy
15 Jun, 2024 by B bailey
Please run as far away from this attorney as possible. In addition to being inarticulate, my personal interactions with Mrs. Williams have lead me to believe she's dishonest and simply not good at her job.
Mrs. Williams was hired by my father's baby mother and her children to represent them in a probate proceeding. Though Mrs. Williams was not the attorney of record for the estate, she acted as the de facto spokeperson for matters regarding an estate that had been dormant for nearly a decade. Mrs. Williams did everything in the interest of her client. Kim Williams inserted herself in matters that did not involve her, including refusing to give me a copy of a Title Report to which I was entitled to receive per New York City's Surrogate Court Procedure Act. Furthermore, when I questioned Mrs. Williams' conflict of interest for handling the needs of her clients while interfering with the estate, she accused me of "threatening" her and sent me a cease and desist email. As an attorney, she was unaware that cease and desist letters must be served in person. What attorney, worth his or her salt, accuses someone of threatening them when they are unable to answer questions germane to an estate that they inserted themselves in? This is just one of many examples that show her inability to do her job well. Mrs. Williams also filed objections to me being the administrator of the estate when I never made the request of the court. Those objections cost money! One can assume reading comprehension is not her strong suit.
I have attached images of Mrs. William's 5 star review from a person who happens to share her same exact name. I've also included the email from her claiming she found my non-threatening emails threatening. Though I have redacted both of our email addresses, the emails are unedited. Please steer clear of this lawyer/real estate agent. You'll thank me later.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Majiya chai
04 Jun, 2024 by Bettye anderson
27 Feb, 2024 by Courtney s
Trial bulldog attorneys that know case law inside and out.
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24 Apr, 2022 by Tennis lover
Run as far as you can from these lawyers that promise to help you. When an attorney promises and says it's a clear and cut case run from those words. I learned the hard way. Naive and inexperienced. I know better now. Stole the money and I ended up in worst shape. Horrible memories from hiring these lawyers! I wished I hired the lawyer from the west end of Long Island because he spoke clearly and made no promises.
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04 Sep, 2019 by Michael wacik
18 Feb, 2025 by Cherine lo
We held our L1 Visa and came to the United States 4 years ago, and decided to stay here because my children love this country. The people that we met at school, at work and our neighbors are all super friendly. With the help of Fragomen, me and my two kids got our green cards very soon after we applied. However, my husband had a bit of a ride getting it because of lacking some of the required documents. The USCIS was stringent with every document that is required. It has been a long process for us to reply USCIS’s RFEs. I cannot describe how grateful I am that Mr. Ketcher Adam and his team, who has devoted much effort in managing our case and tried so many different ways that finally help my husband got his green card. I appreciate their professionalism and dedication, quick response in answering all our questions throughout the process. We are highly satisfied with their service and would be glad to recommend them without reservation as your immigrant law firm.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Rajesh mahapatra
They are worst immigration law firm I have ever seen. My case was simple but time sensitive and could have been processed and filed in 2-3 weeks, but they ignored and didn't expedite it. Their delay forced me to the edge of grace period and out of status.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Irina kovaleva
I was trying to reach this firm for a week to submit a payment for the invoice. In accounting department people just hang up and not able to respond via email as well. Is it possible to update your systems for a such a big firm or maybe hire more professional people?
Thank you,
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16 Sep, 2024 by Gregory rodriguez
Great firm and I highly recommend.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Chris seck
19 Oct, 2021 by Tipp boogie
27 Jun, 2024 by Sydnie tyler
I have only positive things to say about this law firm. After being injured in a motor vehicle accident, I worked with Matthew Feigenbaum, who was able to secure a more than fair settlement on my behalf. Throughout my case, he explained everything thoroughly, leaving me feeling confident that the outcome would be favorable.
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06 Jan, 2023 by Joellen gill
David is the ultimate professional. Caring and responsive, he along with his staff made sure I was informed each step of the legal process and was always available to answer my questions and concerns. Years after my initial lawsuit, David still maintains our Attorney/Client relationship and remains a valuable resource.
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13 Feb, 2022 by Degk
Disingenuous.....completely.....
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04 Feb, 2025 by Bulldod23
New York Attorney General Letitia James has demonstrated a pattern of overreach and questionable judgment that raises serious concerns about her fitness for office. Her relentless pursuit of former President Donald Trump, culminating in a civil lawsuit alleging financial fraud, appears to be driven more by personal vendetta than by objective legal standards. This has led to accusations of conducting a biased investigation, undermining the integrity of her office. 
Moreover, James has faced criticism for her handling of internal matters within her own office. Notably, her longtime chief of staff, Ibrahim Khan, resigned amid sexual harassment allegations, prompting questions about her leadership and the internal culture she fosters. 
In addition, her recent directive to New York hospitals to continue gender-affirming procedures for minors, despite a federal executive order to the contrary, has been labeled as reckless and dangerous. This move not only defies federal authority but also places healthcare institutions in a precarious legal position. 
These actions collectively suggest that Letitia James prioritizes personal and political agendas over her duty to uphold the law impartially. Such behavior is unbecoming of the state’s highest legal officer and warrants serious consideration of her removal from office. She needs to be Fired!!!
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05 Mar, 2024 by Ibrahima keita
05 Mar, 2024 by Leul selase
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Discrimination Lawyer Can Do for You
A discrimination lawyer specializes in handling cases where individuals or groups face unfair treatment based on protected characteristics, such as race, gender, age, religion, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation. These lawyers assist clients in filing discrimination claims, representing them in legal proceedings, and ensuring that their rights under federal, state, and local laws are upheld. Discrimination cases may arise in employment, housing, education, public accommodations, or other settings.
Whether you’ve been discriminated against at work, denied housing, or treated unfairly in other areas of life, a discrimination lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and seek compensation or corrective action.
When Should I Hire a Discrimination Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a discrimination lawyer in several situations where unfair treatment occurs based on protected characteristics. Common scenarios include:
-
Employment Discrimination:
- Workplace discrimination: If you’ve been treated unfairly at work because of your race, gender, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, or another protected status, a lawyer can help you file a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a similar state agency.
- Wrongful termination: If you were fired due to discrimination or retaliation for reporting discriminatory behavior, a lawyer can assist with filing a lawsuit and seeking compensation for lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.
- Failure to promote: If you’ve been denied a promotion or opportunities due to discriminatory practices, a lawyer can investigate the claim and represent you in legal actions against your employer.
- Harassment: If you’ve experienced workplace harassment, such as sexual harassment or a hostile work environment based on your race, gender, or other characteristics, a lawyer can help you pursue legal remedies.
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Housing Discrimination:
- Denial of housing: If you’ve been denied housing due to your race, disability, family status, or other protected factors, a lawyer can help you file a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or sue the landlord or property manager for violating the Fair Housing Act.
- Unfair rental practices: If a landlord or property manager treats you unfairly based on discriminatory factors (e.g., refusing reasonable accommodations for a disability), a lawyer can help you enforce your rights.
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Education Discrimination:
- Discrimination in schools: If you or your child has faced discrimination in an educational setting based on race, disability, gender, or religion, a lawyer can help you file complaints under laws like Title VI, Title IX, or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
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Public Accommodations:
- Denial of services: If a business or public service has discriminated against you based on race, gender, disability, or other protected characteristics, a lawyer can assist you in filing a complaint or lawsuit under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or other anti-discrimination laws.
Hiring a discrimination lawyer early can help protect your rights and ensure that your claim is filed within legal deadlines.
What Does a Discrimination Lawyer Do?
A discrimination lawyer provides a range of legal services to help individuals and groups fight against discriminatory practices. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing discrimination claims: A lawyer can help you file a complaint with government agencies, such as the EEOC, HUD, or your state’s human rights commission. They ensure that your claim is properly documented and filed within required time limits.
- Investigating discrimination claims: Discrimination lawyers gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review documents to build a strong case for proving discriminatory practices.
- Negotiating settlements: In many cases, a lawyer can negotiate a settlement with the employer, landlord, or other party involved in the discrimination case, seeking compensation or corrective action without going to trial.
- Representing clients in court: If your case goes to court, a lawyer will represent you during hearings, present evidence, and argue your case before a judge or jury.
- Handling retaliation claims: If you face retaliation for filing a discrimination complaint or reporting discriminatory practices, a lawyer can help you pursue a retaliation claim.
- Advising on legal rights: A discrimination lawyer explains your legal rights under federal and state anti-discrimination laws, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the ADA, the Fair Housing Act, and others.
How Are Discrimination Lawyers Paid?
Discrimination lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the expected duration of the legal process. Common payment structures include:
- Contingency fee: Many discrimination lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win or settle the case. Their fee is usually a percentage of the settlement or court award, typically ranging from 25% to 40%.
- Hourly rate: For cases that don’t involve a contingency fee arrangement, some lawyers charge by the hour. Hourly rates for discrimination lawyers generally range from $200 to $600 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the case’s complexity.
- Flat fee: For simpler legal tasks, such as drafting a discrimination complaint or providing legal advice, some lawyers may charge a flat fee.
- Pro bono or reduced fees: Some discrimination lawyers offer pro bono (free) or reduced-fee services, especially in cases involving low-income clients or significant civil rights issues.
It’s important to discuss fee arrangements during your initial consultation to ensure that you understand the total cost of legal services and how payment will be handled.
How Much Does a Discrimination Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a discrimination lawyer depends on factors like the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the potential for a settlement or trial. General cost estimates include:
- Contingency fees: If the lawyer works on a contingency basis, their fee will typically range from 25% to 40% of any settlement or court award. For example, if you win a settlement of $50,000 and the lawyer’s fee is 30%, they would receive $15,000, and you would keep the remaining $35,000.
- Hourly rates: Discrimination lawyers who charge by the hour typically bill between $200 and $600 per hour. For example, a case that takes 20 hours of legal work at $300 per hour would cost $6,000 in legal fees.
- Flat fees: Some legal services, such as filing a discrimination complaint or providing a legal consultation, may be available for a flat fee ranging from $500 to $2,500, depending on the complexity of the task.
- Pro bono or sliding scale fees: In some cases, particularly for low-income individuals, lawyers may offer reduced fees or work pro bono.
Always ask for a detailed estimate of costs during your consultation, and clarify whether the lawyer offers flexible payment options.
Top Questions to Ask a Discrimination Lawyer
Before hiring a discrimination lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and qualifications to handle your case. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with discrimination cases?
Ensure that the lawyer has handled discrimination cases similar to yours, whether it involves employment, housing, or public accommodation discrimination. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee, hourly rate, or flat fee, and ask for a detailed breakdown of costs. -
What are my chances of success?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and the likelihood of success. -
How long will the process take?
Discrimination cases can take time to resolve, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to take, from filing a complaint to reaching a settlement or going to trial. -
Will I need to go to court?
Ask whether your case is likely to settle out of court or if a trial may be necessary. If a trial is possible, ask what steps the lawyer will take to prepare. -
What damages or remedies can I seek?
Ask about the types of compensation or corrective action you can pursue, such as back pay, emotional distress damages, job reinstatement, or policy changes. -
What steps should I take to protect my rights?
Ask for advice on how to document evidence, handle workplace or housing interactions, and avoid retaliation while your case is pending.
How to Check the Credibility of a Discrimination Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable discrimination lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Check their bar status: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and in good standing with the state bar association. You can check this on your state bar’s website.
- Look for discrimination case experience: Review the lawyer’s website or profile to ensure they specialize in employment law, civil rights, or discrimination cases and have successfully handled similar cases in the past.
- 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 their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on discrimination matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for certifications or memberships in civil rights organizations or employment law associations, such as the National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA).
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a discrimination lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Detailed account of the discrimination: Provide a clear description of the discriminatory actions, including dates, locations, and individuals involved. Document specific incidents and any witnesses who can support your claim.
- Workplace or housing records: Bring copies of relevant employment or housing documents, such as job performance evaluations, rental agreements, emails, or written correspondence related to the discrimination.
- Company or organization policies: If the discrimination occurred in the workplace or housing, bring copies of company policies, employee handbooks, or housing agreements that outline anti-discrimination policies.
- Evidence of damages: Provide evidence of any financial losses, such as lost wages, job termination, or increased rent, as well as emotional or psychological distress caused by the discrimination.
- Previous complaints or actions: If you’ve filed previous complaints or taken any action related to the discrimination, such as reporting the issue to HR or filing a complaint with a government agency, bring copies of those documents.
- Questions about the process: Prepare a list of questions about your legal options, potential outcomes, and the lawyer’s approach to handling your case.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for pursuing your discrimination claim.
