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02 Jan, 2025 by Zakhariah k.
They are not following up the request....
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24 Oct, 2024 by Dean richmond
I highly recommend EREZ Law Firm. The team listened to our situation and carefully crafted what our options were and the best path forward. The team was organized and sought the best possible outcome while being fair to all parties. It was a tough life situation, and he represented us with dignity and honesty. Don't hesitate to call them, they will listen and tell you whether your case is something to pursue or not.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Cynthia arcaro
My wife Cynthia and Me were frightened and devastated when our brokerage firm after having lost 1.5 million dollars of our retirement savings over the course of a year and a half phoned to say we should liquid our portfolio.
Fortuitously, we googled " The Best Stock Broker Negligence Lawyer in Florida." JEFF EREZ'S name appeared at the top of a list of attorneys. While at dinner I sent an email to Jeff Erez. Within seconds he responded.
I am a retired personal injury litigation attorney with more than 45 years of experience. I knew within 15 minutes of our conversation that Jeff was an extraordinary and highly skilled litigator. His analysis and legal advice was cogent, concise and as it turned out legally correct. Within days my wife and me met Jeff and his team. We retained his firm to pursue our case.
Our pleadings, discovery, and motions to compel evidence were emailed to me. They were works of legal excellence. Jeff also emailed copies of responses. It was obvious to me Jeff's talent, skill, work ethic and experience were vastly superior to the defense team's work product.
Predictably within less than a year our case settled at mediation
for a significant amount of money. Without reservation or qualification I recommend Jeff Erez and his team to any person who has suffered financial losses from unsuitable decisions made by their money manager or broker.
My wife and me after having been victimized are restored to retirement security. Many thanks and appreciation to Jeff Erez and his team.
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24 Aug, 2016 by Audrey
I have been working with Ari Good for 5 years on issues with the IRS since the sudden death of my mother. I live in MN and needed to trust someone in Florida to advise me and my father. Ari has been understanding, patient, wise, persistent, thorough, professional, helpful and kind throughout this stressful, unknown and difficult time. I am forever grateful for his expertise. I would contact him and feel confident he cares and is working for you.
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06 Nov, 2013 by Joel
Mr. Good demonstrated to my wife and I uncommon caring and compassion to us during a very trying time in our life. His willingness to accomodate us for our special circumstances will always be remembered. God bless this man. Thank you so much
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31 Jul, 2013 by Mark
In this hectic time, it is very difficult to find a caring and highly qualified attorney who will take it on himself to get a job done for the client, beyond what is expected. Ari Good is such a find. He is diligent, caring, strong and reasonable. I have been in business for over 45 years and I have dealt with no less than 1000 attorneys in my career as a real estate developer and broker. My son in law is a good attorney. I have recently had the sincere pleasure to work with one of the best in the field of IRS problems. A very troubling issue and most difficult area to work on, but Ari Good made be feel confident and comfortable, gave me great advice, took on the IRS issue directly, and found a very reasonable solution for me, with the least amount of time, effort and cost. He listens well, prepares well and executes the plan even better. I recommend him to anyone who has IRS issues and needs help.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Sheryl witter
Evelyn was very diligent and patient when dealing with our legal matters. Her expertise was more than just legal knowledge; it was how she was able to simplify the relevant information without compromising the facts at all times! Thank you for your integrity and tenacity!!!
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04 Jun, 2024 by B shakes
Truly a professional. If you need to get something done I promise you she WILL get it done. A pleasure to work with and would definitely do it again if ever needed!
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12 Sep, 2023 by Daniel pedroza
Best law firm in Miami! I have worked with Evelyn the last couple of years and she has been very helpful and always on time. I really recommend her. Thank you Evelyn for always been available.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Marcelina barr
My experience has been excellent since 2013 !! Everyone professional, helpful, listening to details, honest! Thank You!! and blessings! 🙏🙌😊❤️
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15 Nov, 2024 by Shawn held
Very helpful and friendly
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14 Nov, 2024 by Ash benitez
Ariana is a fantastic paralegal!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Dr blanco
13 Aug, 2024 by Rosanne desirée manchoy
I hired John May recently. We went to trial and won! He was very professional and efficient and very responsive in handling the case. He treated me like family as well and was very brilliant in court! Thank u so much John!
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14 May, 2024 by Allison s
17 Feb, 2025 by Carla apesteguy
21 Jan, 2025 by Camila antonela barrios carvalho
I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional legal representation you've provided me. Your dedication and attention to detail have made a significant difference in my case. I truly appreciate your thorough approach and the way you handle information with such professionalism. Your expertise and commitment have given me great confidence throughout this process. Thank you for everything you do!
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17 Jan, 2025 by Margarita
What impressed me the most was their unwavering commitment to my best interests. They fought tirelessly for me, demonstrating remarkable expertise and professionalism every step of the way. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, I achieved a favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations.
I highly recommend Smith & Eulo Law Firm to anyone in need of legal assistance. They truly are a team that cares, and their results speak for themselves. I’m forever grateful for their support and guidance!
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06 Jan, 2025 by Peter sinka
I wanted to take a moment to share my positive experience with Robert and his team. They have demonstrated true professionalism throughout our engagement. Robert made me feel that my case was not only important to me but also to him. He was consistently available to me whether to meet in person, by phone, text, or email, and always responded promptly. I highly recommend Robert and his team for their outstanding service and dedication.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Jennifer kerry
Thank you all for the fantastic job and hard work! I highly recommend Robert and everyone at his firm to get the job done for you!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Veronica taylor
I was referred to Robert Hanreck law firm by a family member. I retained him as my lawyer in September, 2022. I gave him all the details. Over the next two years, he kept me well informed of the progress of my case.
Resulting in a favorable outcome. I will recommend him anyone.
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02 Dec, 2023 by Federico d.
Edmar is an exceptional attorney! His expertise and dedication shone through every step of the way. Highly recommend for anyone needing top-notch legal assistance!
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24 Oct, 2023 by Yacqueline perez
Muy profesional excelente abogado .
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24 Jul, 2023 by Paola candelotto
Súper recomendado! Edmar supo manejar mi caso y siempre estuvo disponible para responder an mis preguntas y preocupaciones, lo que me hizo sentir apoyada y confiada en cada etapa del camino.
Gracias Edmar por tus servicios! 👏
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12 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I used Montes to iniciated my new LLC , he was very helpful and cordial , efficient and I would recommend his services cause is not only about hiring someone to represent you is also about getting to know and learn the situation and its pros and con's, Montes assisted me in every step of the way.
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15 Jul, 2015 by David
An actual honest lawyer who will give you the right advice and not look to overcharge for unneeded time or services. Recommended from a friend who had a large real estate deal through him and who thought the same of him. Works larger contracts/cases, but will make time and give the same treatment to the smaller guy.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Oscar pascual
I need to give a big shout out to the firm Ratzan and Faccidomo LLC, especially to all the wonderful ladies running the show in the office which make everything work so seamlessly behind the scenes. Most especially to Jude Faccidomo for his relentless skills and professionalism taking care of my case while keeping me in peace through what seemed as one of the hardest moments in my life. Always in your debt hoping I don't ever need you again but knowing I am safe having you backing me up. God Bless you and your firm!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Isabel p.
Jude and his team are extremely professional and supportive. Throughout the entire process they are always available to assist and answer any questions providing feedback and support.
They always prioritize their clients needs and focus on your best interest for a positive outcome.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Kim green
If you are looking for excellent legal representation, I would highly recommend Jude Faccidomo. He helped resolved my legal case quickly and efficiently. The staff was also very professional.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Rigoberto cadavieco
Quiero agradecer infinita mente al abogado Marco Antonio Quesada por su gran trabajo en mi caso,en el cual demostró ser muy profesional en lo que hace y dar a el cliente todo el apoyo y seguridad en resolver su caso.en verdad estoy sumamente agradecido por el servicio prestado por el.le estaré siempre agradecido por lo que hizo en mi caso,es alguien en el que se puede confiar,su sinceridad y transparencia son como pocos lo tienen.gracias Marcos Mil gracias hermano
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06 Sep, 2024 by Oscar valle
27 Aug, 2024 by Gabriel guinea
Very professional, shows concern at all times for solving the problems, recognizes and promptly resolves the customer's needs.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Ana uribe
He is the best
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21 Mar, 2022 by Austin h
I wish I had dealt with them under better circumstances! Everyone was on the top of their game for A to Z.
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14 Sep, 2021 by Jayne quinn
16 Oct, 2024 by Anthony zurowski
Alex Barthet is exactly what you are looking for. You are looking for someone to answer your questions with confidence, to be knowledgeable about the subject every time you call, to bring you peace in a moment of frustration or desperation. You will find all of this in spades from this man. If you are talking to a lawyer for Construction Law, you are already having a bad day. This man will lay everything out for you and from the most genuine of places tell you everything he is willing to do or can do. The first time I called his office, I got a call back within hours. The call back was a man prepared to listen, advise and strategize. That is very rare these days when you call a law office. His pricing is reasonable, his advice is sound and at the end of the day he has a bedside manner to deliver even bad news in a positive way. If you are already working with him, let me be the one to reassure you, you are in good hands.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Thiciano turnes
13 Aug, 2024 by Gcopewitit
Needed some advice , Alex was very helpful and put my mind at ease . I will definitely be giving them a call anytime I need legal representation.
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17 Feb, 2024 by Fabian garcia
14 Dec, 2020 by John davis
31 May, 2020 by Sean l
02 Mar, 2020 by Michon chambon
04 Dec, 2016 by Mark brown
31 Dec, 2024 by Dawei
I had a very disappointing experience with Morgan and Morgan. After my initial consultation, I was told they would take my case, and I signed the necessary paperwork. However, I did not hear back for over a week. I had to make multiple calls to track down someone from their maritime law team, only to be told that the lawyer who signed me should not have done so. This was extremely frustrating, as I was assured my case was being handled.
When I contacted the lawyer who initially took my case, I was told by their secretary that there had been a misunderstanding and that my case was still moving forward. Unfortunately, the very next day, I received an email stating that they were officially dropping my case.
What upset me most was the lack of transparency and professionalism throughout this process. My case involves serious injuries and significant challenges ahead, and I was hoping for a firm that could provide the support and expertise I need. Instead, I was left feeling abandoned during an incredibly stressful and vulnerable time.
I expected more from a firm of their reputation and was deeply disappointed by how this was handled
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19 Dec, 2024 by Brian ludwick
Got a small-ish case? Look elsewhere. It's true they seem to be a litigation mill and only interested in the largest most lucrative cases. That's fine, but it belies their crafty marketing campaigns. Once you get past the initial call, if they're not interested communication is a C at best and then a paralegal or assistant sends you off to the state bar association to seek representation with no further navigation or instructions given. At least try to direct people who contact you to a legal specialty when you send them off or explain why their case doesn't appeal to you. Very few firms of this size can be bothered with the small cases - especially not Morgan & Morgan
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21 Nov, 2024 by David rodriguez
The attorney I was assigned was 4 hours away and he waited a full 30 days to tell me they were dropping the case because the guy that ran me over didn't have a policy worth enough money for them.
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20 Feb, 2025 by Jim cox
Thomas knows how to cut through the BS. Money well spent.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Sahidy abrahams
Más que agradecida con el abogado Thomas por llevar mi caso y por resolverlo en tan poco tiempo, ya que yo estaba embarazada y estábamos contra reloj. Fue muy amable y muy profesional,supo cómo ganar mi caso sin tan siquiera llegar a juicio.
Uno de los pocos abogados con los que puedes hablar directamente.
Si estás buscando un buen abogado lo recomiendo 100%.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Gleydis rodríguez
12 Feb, 2025 by Tomas perez
Trabajar con ellos es un bendición ellos me res resolvieron el problema y los recomiendo🙏
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08 Feb, 2025 by Anthony bravo
17 Jan, 2025 by Kevin escobar
07 Jan, 2025 by Latonia forrester
Good afternoon.
When I tell you, you can’t go wrong by letting this law firm Repersentive you. They will give you the Justice you and your family needs. Me and family will like to say thank you for representing us and putting in the necessary work that need to be done to get us the Justice we needed.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Cristian s
¡Servicio excepcional! Este estudio de abogados de registros de marcas superó todas mis expectativas. Resolvieron mi problema de manera increíblemente rápida y con una eficiencia y profesionalismo admirables. Su equipo es experto, atento y siempre estuvo dispuesto a responder todas mis dudas. Un agradecimiento especial a todo el equipo que trabajó incansablemente para resolver mi caso. Definitivamente los recomendaría a cualquiera que busque un servicio confiable y efectivo.
Janine
Liz
Kaustubh Nadkarni
Muchas Gracias!!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Devon thurtle anderson
My firm hired Nadkarni Law to handle some patent issues that were outside our wheelhouse. Not only was the Nadkarni team responsive and professional, but they also achieved an excellent result for us. I will definitely be working with them on all kinds of IP questions in the future.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Ayhan lambaz
Sadly I do not have a positive experience to share with this firm. I hired them to help me with a retaliating landlord that refused to repair the no longer habitable unit I was renting along with my autistic son. After this attorney advised me to move out and save all my receipts and cost associated with my move he informed that they no longer can assist me. I lost my last month and security deposit along with other damages that I was left with.
To later find later out my landlord was stripped from Practicing law and has multiple arrest records and a long record of theft. Surely he stole my hard earnings as well.
Looking forward to hear their response here to why
they take my case and then drop me to let a slumlord with such long record of theft and misdemeanors steal my hard earnings and cause my family the pain and harassment.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Manta howard
I can't thank this law firm enough. I could cry from happiness. Transnational Matter fought to remove a negative and false insurance claim that would help clear my name and ridiculous insurance rates. This team was great from start to finish!
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14 Oct, 2024 by Scott watson
To me personally.Safie wasn't a lawyer but a tenacious family member who would fight tooth and nail for me to get me what I wanted just to make me content with the outcome..
Even when I felt there was nothing else I could do Safie lifted me up and dusted me off and said " Straighten up soldier! The battle's just begun" or something to that affect.haha!
If we were in trench warfare I would want Safie by my side because I'd know I was with a true fighting spirit.. fighting for justice like a natural born Marvel Heroine. In a nutshell Safie is AWESOME!!
I totally recommend anyone else who wants a chill as lawyer to cut you through the jungle of red tape and never say die Safie is for you ♥️
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17 Feb, 2024 by Maria .a. nardi
Los mejores abogados de miami.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Michael ridard
Wonderful team and human being that have been able to managed and prevailed.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Caroline gleason
best law firm , so professional and wonderful
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06 Jan, 2025 by Peter sinka
I wanted to take a moment to share my positive experience with Robert and his team. They have demonstrated true professionalism throughout our engagement. Robert made me feel that my case was not only important to me but also to him. He was consistently available to me whether to meet in person, by phone, text, or email, and always responded promptly. I highly recommend Robert and his team for their outstanding service and dedication.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Jennifer kerry
Thank you all for the fantastic job and hard work! I highly recommend Robert and everyone at his firm to get the job done for you!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Veronica taylor
I was referred to Robert Hanreck law firm by a family member. I retained him as my lawyer in September, 2022. I gave him all the details. Over the next two years, he kept me well informed of the progress of my case.
Resulting in a favorable outcome. I will recommend him anyone.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Nikita
While Allen offered a pivotal insight, the overall experience was negative and damaging. Meetings were capped at 15 minutes, making it hard to address the legal needs of our pilot. Even these short meetings were often cut short or canceled, leaving key issues unresolved.
Critical tasks were ignored or left incomplete, and if confronted, Allen would deny ever discussing them, even if we had the night before.
When cornered, rhetorically, Allen resorted to demeaning remarks and threatened to cut off communication. He eventually declared the work done, dismissed our objections, and made it clear none of our concerns were valid.
His staff, while sympathetic and doing their best to rein him in, couldn’t compensate for the lack of focus. After reading other reviews, I now see our experience wasn’t unique. Thoroughly research before hiring. Now we must regroup to ensure our pilot is completed
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16 Jun, 2020 by Leslie
Allen has represented us for almost 25 years ranging from agreements in music publishing, artist management, production, and copyright infringement disputes. Each and every time we have worked together whether it is a label negotiation or an independent he always manages to make deals come to fruition, probably because he always does the right thing. Besides knowing all the player's in the industry he has such a deep knowledge of music it doesn't matter what genre he loves music! Allen, thank you for being there throughout the years. Besides being such a consummate professional you are an amazing person. I can't imagine having navigated the industry without you.
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21 May, 2018 by Daniel
I've known Allen Jacobi for many years and I'm pleased to share that throughout all these years Mr Jacobi has represented me and in many occasions I have produced video and film content for his enterprises and clients. I most certainly recommend him and as a matter of fact I have done so to friends and business associates. He has never disappoint me nor any of the individuals I've reffered to him. Great lawyer, great friend.
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25 Jan, 2025 by Antonio olivares
Es un delincuente te traiciona después de anos se vendió falsifico mi firma y me dijo que ya no queria seguir mi caso
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10 Dec, 2024 by Alejandro rodriguez
Very satisfied with the help and service.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Carismas consulting
Great service. Well recommended
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25 Jan, 2025 by Antonio olivares
Es un delincuente te traiciona después de anos se vendió falsifico mi firma y me dijo que ya no queria seguir mi caso
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10 Dec, 2024 by Alejandro rodriguez
Very satisfied with the help and service.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Carismas consulting
Great service. Well recommended
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13 Sep, 2022 by Julia
3 weeks ago I paid for a consultation. After the call with Krisztian became clear that we must find another attorney. My husband was very upset because Krisztian couldn't answer even basic questions. I'm sorry, but I don't recommend him for sure.
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13 Sep, 2022 by Peter
We hired a few this lawyer a few weeks ago. my family and I applied for a family-reunion visa. Kristian took money upfront, and until today I have no proof that he has worked on my case or not. He rarely returns my emails. I have no idea how he is still legally operating.
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01 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Affordable consultation fee, totally worths the time and money. The attorney provided useful suggestions to our questions. I will definitely reach out to Krisztian again.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Alen
Alan Soven receives a zero-star rating from me. He represented me in a false domestic violence accusation by my ex-wife. Despite having a strong case with witnesses and 911 tapes in my favor, Soven persuaded me to accept a plea deal for 1 year of probation with adjudication withheld, claiming it was the best option to avoid a potential 5-year sentence if found guilty at trial. However, Soven failed to inform me that my record couldn’t be expunged or sealed due to the nature of the charges in Florida. Had I received proper legal advice, I would have opted for a trial instead of accepting the plea deal. Soven’s incompetence has led me to caution against engaging him for any legal matters. He should stick to ambulance chasing cases.
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17 Jan, 2019 by Allen
Would rate Zero stars but that is not possible. So 1 Star =Zero stars.
Bad legal advise and Alan Soven does not have a grip on the law. Let me explain, he advised me to accept a plea bargain from the State prosecutor and advised me not to go to trial with a good defense with evidence that I was inocente. He wanted me to accept the plea bargain since it’s less work for him. He did this by instilling fear into me that I would loose the case and go to prison. He assured me that he would simply expunge my record afterward I complied with the conditions of the bargain. He was UNAWARE and uneducated of the the age old law in place, which I later found out, did not allow for me to be able to seal or expunge my record as I had erroneously been lead to believe by the so called attorney, Alan Soven. When I asked him what he was going to do for me, he told me that there was nothing for him to do. Of coarse there isn’t anything to do because he misrepresented to me the law. I would have NEVER accepted the plea bargain if I knew what Alan Soven led me to believe was true... but was not. NOT RECOMMENDED.
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25 Apr, 2018 by Jsy
Undertaking corruption in a municipality is a daunting task. It was attorney Sovens total commitment and fierce determination that enabled a multimillion-dollar code enforcement scheme to be uncovered and terminated. Enlisting the FBI and going up against a prominent Florida Law Firm not only did Allen succeed but he sacrificed. Because of his aggressive prosecution of my case his office was burned in an arson fire in attempt to silence him and prevent further action on his part. Without his dedication millions of dollars worth of properties would have been seized and no one would be the wiser. My deepest thanks always go to his work and to his work ethic.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Idan bast
Feeling robbed by this firm and Mr Ira Silverstein. We hired him for a super sensitive case but he didn’t bother himself to even talk to the person that was in trouble. He was busy with other cases and never told us that he doesn’t have time so we spent crucial time with waiting and he charged us almost $3,000 for going to 1 hearing. Can’t even explain how disappointed I am.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Patrick loves real estate
Words can't describe how unhappy we are with this firm. We were referred to Ira Silverstein regarding a very delicate case with a seller our company was under contract with to buy his property. The seller is about to lose his house in pre foreclosure he is the heir of the property inherited from his mother. This attorney did not start the probate till after one month of being hired. He said he was busy and also felt ill. He acted all high and mighty when we hired him and it ended up being the biggest waste of time and money we could have ever spent. We came to him so that he can stop the sale in June which he did and got it postponed till July. He then came back and said our only option is to redeem the property and pay the entire balance ourselves. We hired him to get probate going, file quiet title so that we can purchase this property. We wasted time and now the seller has no other option but to lose his home. There was fraud involved in this case from individuals who tried to steal this sellers deed. Even the attorney who referred us to him was aware of this. We truly feel no one cared AT ALL for this poor seller. He never ecen communicated with the seller!! It's truly a shame and sad he charged us almost 3000 dollars to just go and get a sale postponed for a 1 month. He still drafted the docs for probate and sent it to the seller. I'm speechless and saddened more than anything. And in the end all he did was ask if we wanted his services stopped. Truly did not give 1 damn about anything but the money we paid him in our opinion. So sad and broken for this seller.
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05 Jan, 2024 by Lyndsey jones
24 Jul, 2024 by Isabel
This law firm took ownership of Emerald Terrace Apartments on August 2023. My previous owner gave us a copy of the tenant estoppel letter where it states that our security deposit was transferred to Adam B. Kenner. Adam B. Kenner and his team kicked everyone out with a letter taped onto the doors labeled August 11 (but actually taped on August 16) stating that we needed to leave the premises by September 10, 2023. With such short notices I emailed and called to see if I can get an extension. They never responded or cared to respond to my or any other tenants questions and concerns. I paid nights at hotels and an extra fee for moving in early to another apartment, but I finally managed to move out of there. From September 2023 to now, I’ve emailed and called Adam B. Kenner several times to request my security deposit back. I took pictures of my apartment and have proof that I left it in great conditions. However, I have yet to receive my security deposit back. They always respond with “we’ll send it to you soon,” but never do. We are almost in August 2024! I do not think I would have to wait this long to receive my security deposit back. In addition to that I know of a couple who were the tenants to move in last and they also failed to receive their security deposit back. What a scam!
I will update my comment when I do receive my security deposit; for now all I can say about my experience with Adam B. Kenner is that they lack communication, don’t seem to care about others, and like to pocket people’s money.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Entertainment Lawyer Can Do for You
An entertainment lawyer specializes in legal matters related to the entertainment industry, including film, television, music, publishing, sports, and digital media. They assist artists, creators, producers, and companies with contract negotiations, intellectual property protection, licensing deals, royalties, and disputes. Entertainment lawyers also help clients navigate complex industry regulations and ensure their creative rights are protected.
Whether you're an actor, musician, producer, writer, or influencer, an entertainment lawyer can help safeguard your rights and ensure that your business deals are legally sound.
When Should I Hire an Entertainment Lawyer?
You should consider hiring an entertainment lawyer in a variety of situations, including:
- Contract negotiations: If you're signing a contract for a film role, recording deal, or publishing agreement, an entertainment lawyer can review the terms and negotiate on your behalf to ensure your interests are protected.
- Intellectual property protection: If you're a creator (musician, writer, filmmaker), an entertainment lawyer can help secure copyrights, trademarks, and licensing agreements to protect your work from unauthorized use.
- Disputes or litigation: If you’re involved in a legal dispute, such as breach of contract, copyright infringement, or defamation, an entertainment lawyer can represent you in negotiations or court.
- Representation agreements: If you’re hiring or entering into a contract with a manager, agent, or publicist, a lawyer can ensure that the terms of representation are fair and comply with industry standards.
- Royalties and licensing: If you're licensing your work for use in film, TV, or digital platforms, a lawyer can negotiate royalty agreements to ensure you receive proper compensation.
- Talent contracts: Whether you are hiring talent for a project or negotiating your own appearance or performance fees, an entertainment lawyer can ensure the terms are legally binding and beneficial.
- Film and television production: If you're producing a film, TV show, or other media project, a lawyer can handle contracts with crew, talent, and distributors, and ensure that all legal aspects of the production are covered.
Hiring a lawyer early in your entertainment career or project can prevent costly legal mistakes and protect your creative and financial interests.
What Does an Entertainment Lawyer Do?
An entertainment lawyer provides a range of legal services to professionals in the entertainment industry. Their responsibilities often include:
- Reviewing and drafting contracts: Entertainment lawyers review, draft, and negotiate contracts for talent, production, licensing, distribution, and endorsements. This ensures that the terms are fair and protect their client's interests.
- Securing intellectual property rights: They help clients obtain copyrights, trademarks, and patents for their creative works, and assist with licensing those rights to third parties.
- Negotiating deals: Whether it's a film deal, music contract, publishing agreement, or endorsement, an entertainment lawyer ensures that their client gets favorable terms and is protected from potential legal pitfalls.
- Handling disputes and litigation: In cases where contract terms are violated, intellectual property is infringed, or other legal issues arise, an entertainment lawyer can represent clients in negotiations, arbitration, or court.
- Advising on industry regulations: Entertainment lawyers help clients navigate industry-specific laws, such as union regulations, labor laws, or FCC rules for broadcasting.
- Managing royalties and residuals: They assist in tracking and collecting royalties or residuals for music, film, television, and digital content to ensure clients receive the compensation they are owed.
- Talent agreements and representation: Entertainment lawyers often work with talent agents and managers, ensuring that their clients' representation agreements are legally sound and financially beneficial.
How Are Entertainment Lawyers Paid?
Entertainment lawyers may be paid in various ways, depending on the type of service provided. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many entertainment lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $250 to $1,000 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fee: For specific legal services, such as drafting a contract or filing a trademark, some lawyers offer flat fees. Flat fees are common in simpler or one-time transactions.
- Contingency fee: In some cases, especially when working with talent, entertainment lawyers may charge a contingency fee, meaning they take a percentage (usually 5% to 10%) of the client's earnings from a particular project.
- Retainer: For ongoing legal services, such as managing contracts and royalties over a long period, a lawyer may require a retainer fee. This is an upfront payment that covers future legal services, and the lawyer bills against the retainer as they work on the case.
It’s important to discuss fee structures with your lawyer at the outset to ensure you understand the total cost of legal services.
How Much Does an Entertainment Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an entertainment lawyer depends on the complexity of your legal needs, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of fee arrangement. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Entertainment lawyers typically charge between $250 and $1,000 per hour. More experienced lawyers with extensive connections in the entertainment industry may charge higher rates.
- Flat fees: For simpler services like drafting a basic contract, flat fees can range from $500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the agreement.
- Contingency fees: Lawyers working on a contingency basis typically charge between 5% and 10% of the earnings from a project or deal. For example, if a lawyer helps you secure a $100,000 film contract, their fee might be $5,000 to $10,000.
- Retainers: For ongoing legal representation, retainers can range from $2,500 to $50,000 or more, depending on the scope of the legal services and the length of the engagement.
Always discuss the costs and fee structure during your initial consultation to ensure that the services fit within your budget.
Top Questions to Ask an Entertainment Lawyer
Before hiring an entertainment lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they are the right fit for your career or project. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have in entertainment law?
Ensure the lawyer has experience in your specific area of the entertainment industry, whether it's film, music, television, or digital media. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, flat fee, or contingency fee, and ask for a detailed cost estimate. -
Do you have industry connections?
Ask about the lawyer’s experience and connections in the entertainment industry, which can be valuable for contract negotiations and deal-making. -
What contracts or legal issues should I be aware of?
Ask the lawyer to identify potential legal pitfalls in your specific project or career and how they would help you avoid them. -
What intellectual property protections do I need?
If you’re a creator, ask how the lawyer will help protect your intellectual property rights and prevent others from using your work without permission. -
How will you negotiate deals on my behalf?
Ask about the lawyer’s approach to negotiating contracts, ensuring they focus on getting favorable terms while maintaining strong industry relationships. -
What happens if there is a dispute?
Ask the lawyer how they handle disputes, including whether they aim for negotiation or litigation and how they would protect your interests.
How to Check the Credibility of an Entertainment Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable entertainment lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for entertainment law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in entertainment law and have successfully handled cases or negotiations relevant to your industry.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients say about their experience with the lawyer, especially in terms of contract negotiations and industry knowledge.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on entertainment-related matters.
- Check for industry memberships: Membership in entertainment law organizations, such as the Beverly Hills Bar Association Entertainment Law Section, can indicate a lawyer’s dedication to staying up-to-date on industry trends and regulations.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with an entertainment lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Current contracts or agreements: Bring any contracts you have already signed or are considering, such as talent agreements, recording contracts, publishing deals, or management contracts.
- Intellectual property portfolio: Provide details about any copyrights, trademarks, or other intellectual property you own or are seeking to protect.
- Project details: If you’re working on a specific project (e.g., film, album, book), provide a summary of the project, your role, and any legal needs, such as contract negotiations or copyright protection.
- List of collaborators or stakeholders: Provide information about other parties involved in your project, such as agents, managers, producers, or distributors, and any contracts related to them.
- Questions about your legal needs: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, potential issues, and how the lawyer can help you protect your interests.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your legal needs effectively and provide the best possible advice tailored to your entertainment career or project.
