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17 Sep, 2024 by Clyde raborn
Mr. Willie and his team were very kind and professional! Would highly recommend him!
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13 Sep, 2024 by R j
I am very grateful for Eric’s guidance. I had never been to Court before and although I was often times obstinate due to the nature of the plaintiff’s unreasonable and unfair demands, Eric made sure I came out in the best possible situation. I highly recommend.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Jesse hernandez
I give Mr.wille 5 stars for such a great job and I highly recommend him.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Austin albin
He thinks a brain injured person doesnt deserve from him any manners, zero respect, they deserve to be treated like they are always acting badly to justify him doing things such as doing absolutely nothing for me for months on end followed by him launching into verbal assault mode against me simply because to him, a brain injured person doesnt deserve the time of day, or to be cared about in any way at all. He literally claimed me asking for mutual respect and offering to apologize for any bad behavior on my end as long as he returned it to me for his own misdoings as being “verbal harassment”.
Nobody deserves to be treated the way he treats me. If i ask you to apologize that is not verbal harassment you jerk
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10 Sep, 2024 by M.m
13 Jun, 2024 by Greg pollard
I felt compelled to write this review today due to how valuable their service is. The law office of Anderson Simmons has helped me with my debt claim case immeasurably. This law firm knows all of the Texas debt laws inside and out. They know how things are going to go and what the tactics normally are. They know the usual players. They are trustworthy and they their price was extremely more than fair. They will hand it to you straight and let you decide. I hope not to get into this bind again but if I do, I will 100% rely on this law firm.
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16 Apr, 2015 by Jennifer
Thursday, April 16, 2015
Mr. Myers,
I'm writing this letter to formally thank you for representing me. When I came to you; I was 3 plus years into a case that felt like it would never end, I had what I thought was the best legal representation but learned very quickly that wasn’t the case.
I cannot thank you enough for meeting with me and taking my case over. I quickly learned my former attorney did little to nothing on the matter. Let me not go without saying you took this case knowing you had to be ready for trial in 30 days. You were kind and worked with me on a fee payment that was reasonable. Because of your thorough and relentless advocacy, of taking my case I had fast results that led to the case being dismissed!
I want to thank you for your education, and guidance, for your understanding, your interest in me, your belief that I was worth being your client. You always stayed in contact with me to keep me up to date on the most current information in regards to my case, which is praise for your legal skills - but you made an impression on me that softened the stress and encouraged me to stand up for the truth. I am a stronger, better person - optimistic and confident because you were my attorney, and finally feel like my voice was heard.
Most of all the day I got the call it was being dismissed. I broke down into tears of joy. This has been so hard on my family. Because of you; my husband and I have our life back. I am so thankful to you for this.
Sincerely,
Jennifer
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01 May, 2012 by Anonymous
Bristol Myers was a great lawyer. From day one he informed me of all my options and steps I would need to take for each one. He was honest, direct and sensitive to my situation. He gave his advise and got me a great deal. I would recommend his services to anyone in my shoes.
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25 Apr, 2012 by Benjamin
Bristol was able to get my case dismissed! He was much more affordable than Bruce Fox, and on top of that he was very personal, he even remembered my birthday. He kept me informed on all the legal proceedings and if there was ever a change in court dates he notified me right away.
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24 Nov, 2023 by Sue
I saw a couple positive reviews mentioning Slav after I contacted Walters Gilbreath to handle my case because I was too busy working to handle it myself, so I thought I was in good hands. Nope. There were many errors that I caught on paperwork he did.
Travis County made an error on the lien I had filed on my ex-husband’s house in 2015, and Slav basically said there was nothing I could do about that.
My ex-was trying to get me to drop the $1000/mo spousal maintenance because he had to go on disability. He hadn’t been paying anything for the past 8 years except for the 2 years he was garnished.
John Hennan was my ex-husband’s attorney and he kept making lowball offers that I had TOLD Slav I would not accept, but, to run up the bill with 6-min minimum calls, Slav would call me himself, saying he was obligated to present all offers. It was also interfering with my job, which was also a huge issue.
Luckily I had a friend in California who is an attorney and she was happy to read the documents that Slav sent, and pointed out several errors, and she made helpful recommendations.
As far as Travis county and the lien error, I used my lunch break to contact them, showed them the error, and told the clerk I needed the corrected lien ASAP because my ex- was trying to sell his house quickly through Zillow. The Travis Clerk was amazing. She not only made the correction, but she emailed and mailed a certified copy that I was able to send to Zillow.
I had to pay a $5000 retainer for someone to just use it all up and ask me to sign documents with errors.
I will never use this firm again.
I would have done it pro se if I didn’t live in WilCo and have a great day job.
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29 Jan, 2020 by Amber
Honest, respectful, compassionate and full of skill and zest. I can not express in tangible words just how amazing my experience was with this law firm, specifically Slav Talavera. We all know how tuff and unnerving a custody battle can be, but Slav calmed me and walked me thru the steps. He and his team where in contact with me every step of the way. From my first time in their office, they offered me refreshments and made me feel welcome and APPRECIATED for choosing them to represent me. Slav was always sharp and on time, well prepared and organized. Most importantly he was easy to talk to and work with.
Slav was quick to answer any of my calls and his staff always responded swiftly and timely *every.single.time.*
I was so impressed by the involvement of his staff - even Mary Kate Brown who was always so reassuring that I was not in this alone.
This law firm undoubtedly offers TOP tier services.
If you are looking for a lawyer that is smart and aggressive, relatable, and has your families best Interest at heart, then Slav Talavera is your guy.
Best experience EVER.
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23 Jul, 2019 by Laura
I had a unique custody case that was a bit of an uphill battle for what I wanted to accomplish. Slav Talavera was incredible and got me AMAZING results and I was completely done within a few months. I thought this would drag out through the end of the year. He was extremely thorough and excellent with communication. I hope I won't need their services again, but will go back to them if I ever do and I highly recommend Walters Gilbreath.
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09 Sep, 2024 by A c
I searched around and spoke to a few lawyers that didn’t want to take my simple divorce case. I continued searching, and then found the Shannon Family Law Firm. The reviews are not perfect, but overall there seemed to be more pleased clients who used them. So I decided to call and I won’t go into a lot of detail, but I have spoken with the paralegal Jodie Ward-House and attorney Richard Shannon whom I have decided to hire for my case. Jodie and Richard have been very kind and thorough in explaining the details of how my particular case should work if all goes well. My case is new and just starting. I may post another review in the future about this firm after my case is finished. However, based on the previous phone conversation I had with Jodie and phone consultation I had with Richard Shannon was very pleasing. We’ll see how this goes. I would recommend them if need consultation about a divorce case. I have a better understanding about my particular case.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Brad king
Terry was organized, thorough, compassionate, and an amazing advocate for my late grandparents and mother. She had a plan for every hurdle that popped up and streamlined the process moving forward. I recommend The Garrett Law Firm for end of life and estate planning. I’ll be using the firm to arrange my own affairs.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Emmanuel zermeno
Richard is extremely knowledgeable and patient with explaining the process. I have no doubt we'll meet our objective under his guidance
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15 May, 2023 by Walker grim
Great people, great location!
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16 Nov, 2021 by Liberty industries
Okay folks. After being audited by the Texas Comptroller and them creating a tax bill of $175,000, I hired Curtis Osterlo to defend me. Long story short, I recorded all of the conversations between Mr. Osterlo and myself. In the beginning, he mentioned the names of people at the Comptroller NOT to talk to. Two months later, while racking up legal fees, he suggested he would circle back around and speak to Jane Doe (one of the people NOT to talk to). That is when I fired him. In my opinion, this law firm is in bed with the Comptroller to generate legal fees. After firing Curtis, I handled my case myself. The comptroller didn't know what to do now? Their boy wonder was out. I proved to the Comptroller I didn't owe the money by emailing a copy of the Federal and State laws. I ended up winning without Curtis. He wanted me to settle and charge me $35,000 for his time. I will never do business in the state of Texas again!
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02 Mar, 2021 by Jasmin hernandez
15 May, 2023 by Walker grim
Great people, great location!
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16 Nov, 2021 by Liberty industries
Okay folks. After being audited by the Texas Comptroller and them creating a tax bill of $175,000, I hired Curtis Osterlo to defend me. Long story short, I recorded all of the conversations between Mr. Osterlo and myself. In the beginning, he mentioned the names of people at the Comptroller NOT to talk to. Two months later, while racking up legal fees, he suggested he would circle back around and speak to Jane Doe (one of the people NOT to talk to). That is when I fired him. In my opinion, this law firm is in bed with the Comptroller to generate legal fees. After firing Curtis, I handled my case myself. The comptroller didn't know what to do now? Their boy wonder was out. I proved to the Comptroller I didn't owe the money by emailing a copy of the Federal and State laws. I ended up winning without Curtis. He wanted me to settle and charge me $35,000 for his time. I will never do business in the state of Texas again!
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02 Mar, 2021 by Jasmin hernandez
15 May, 2023 by Walker grim
Great people, great location!
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16 Nov, 2021 by Liberty industries
Okay folks. After being audited by the Texas Comptroller and them creating a tax bill of $175,000, I hired Curtis Osterlo to defend me. Long story short, I recorded all of the conversations between Mr. Osterlo and myself. In the beginning, he mentioned the names of people at the Comptroller NOT to talk to. Two months later, while racking up legal fees, he suggested he would circle back around and speak to Jane Doe (one of the people NOT to talk to). That is when I fired him. In my opinion, this law firm is in bed with the Comptroller to generate legal fees. After firing Curtis, I handled my case myself. The comptroller didn't know what to do now? Their boy wonder was out. I proved to the Comptroller I didn't owe the money by emailing a copy of the Federal and State laws. I ended up winning without Curtis. He wanted me to settle and charge me $35,000 for his time. I will never do business in the state of Texas again!
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02 Mar, 2021 by Jasmin hernandez
15 May, 2023 by Walker grim
Great people, great location!
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16 Nov, 2021 by Liberty industries
Okay folks. After being audited by the Texas Comptroller and them creating a tax bill of $175,000, I hired Curtis Osterlo to defend me. Long story short, I recorded all of the conversations between Mr. Osterlo and myself. In the beginning, he mentioned the names of people at the Comptroller NOT to talk to. Two months later, while racking up legal fees, he suggested he would circle back around and speak to Jane Doe (one of the people NOT to talk to). That is when I fired him. In my opinion, this law firm is in bed with the Comptroller to generate legal fees. After firing Curtis, I handled my case myself. The comptroller didn't know what to do now? Their boy wonder was out. I proved to the Comptroller I didn't owe the money by emailing a copy of the Federal and State laws. I ended up winning without Curtis. He wanted me to settle and charge me $35,000 for his time. I will never do business in the state of Texas again!
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02 Mar, 2021 by Jasmin hernandez
15 May, 2023 by Walker grim
Great people, great location!
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16 Nov, 2021 by Liberty industries
Okay folks. After being audited by the Texas Comptroller and them creating a tax bill of $175,000, I hired Curtis Osterlo to defend me. Long story short, I recorded all of the conversations between Mr. Osterlo and myself. In the beginning, he mentioned the names of people at the Comptroller NOT to talk to. Two months later, while racking up legal fees, he suggested he would circle back around and speak to Jane Doe (one of the people NOT to talk to). That is when I fired him. In my opinion, this law firm is in bed with the Comptroller to generate legal fees. After firing Curtis, I handled my case myself. The comptroller didn't know what to do now? Their boy wonder was out. I proved to the Comptroller I didn't owe the money by emailing a copy of the Federal and State laws. I ended up winning without Curtis. He wanted me to settle and charge me $35,000 for his time. I will never do business in the state of Texas again!
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02 Mar, 2021 by Jasmin hernandez
15 May, 2023 by Walker grim
Great people, great location!
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16 Nov, 2021 by Liberty industries
Okay folks. After being audited by the Texas Comptroller and them creating a tax bill of $175,000, I hired Curtis Osterlo to defend me. Long story short, I recorded all of the conversations between Mr. Osterlo and myself. In the beginning, he mentioned the names of people at the Comptroller NOT to talk to. Two months later, while racking up legal fees, he suggested he would circle back around and speak to Jane Doe (one of the people NOT to talk to). That is when I fired him. In my opinion, this law firm is in bed with the Comptroller to generate legal fees. After firing Curtis, I handled my case myself. The comptroller didn't know what to do now? Their boy wonder was out. I proved to the Comptroller I didn't owe the money by emailing a copy of the Federal and State laws. I ended up winning without Curtis. He wanted me to settle and charge me $35,000 for his time. I will never do business in the state of Texas again!
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02 Mar, 2021 by Jasmin hernandez
21 May, 2024 by James boone
If you would like a reliable solution to whatever it is your facing, This is the man to see. He helped me in my case and was determined to acquire the results I desired right before my anniversary. Thank You to the Law Offices Of Shrum!
Him and Jocelyn we're tremendous help to my wife and I!
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06 May, 2024 by Ana laura villanueva
The best him and Jocelyn the paralegal handled my case and were always looking out for my best interest. With them for the last 4 years it was almost bittersweet to have it end. He handles the case with the best outcome possible. He also has handled my brothers case and his and mine have both been dismissed. Thank you guys!!!
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01 Feb, 2024 by Thomas boyer
If you want a Lawyer you can trust to get you the best results and actually cares about doing just that, look no further than Matthew Shrum..
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21 May, 2024 by James boone
If you would like a reliable solution to whatever it is your facing, This is the man to see. He helped me in my case and was determined to acquire the results I desired right before my anniversary. Thank You to the Law Offices Of Shrum!
Him and Jocelyn we're tremendous help to my wife and I!
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06 May, 2024 by Ana laura villanueva
The best him and Jocelyn the paralegal handled my case and were always looking out for my best interest. With them for the last 4 years it was almost bittersweet to have it end. He handles the case with the best outcome possible. He also has handled my brothers case and his and mine have both been dismissed. Thank you guys!!!
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01 Feb, 2024 by Thomas boyer
If you want a Lawyer you can trust to get you the best results and actually cares about doing just that, look no further than Matthew Shrum..
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21 May, 2024 by James boone
If you would like a reliable solution to whatever it is your facing, This is the man to see. He helped me in my case and was determined to acquire the results I desired right before my anniversary. Thank You to the Law Offices Of Shrum!
Him and Jocelyn we're tremendous help to my wife and I!
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06 May, 2024 by Ana laura villanueva
The best him and Jocelyn the paralegal handled my case and were always looking out for my best interest. With them for the last 4 years it was almost bittersweet to have it end. He handles the case with the best outcome possible. He also has handled my brothers case and his and mine have both been dismissed. Thank you guys!!!
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01 Feb, 2024 by Thomas boyer
If you want a Lawyer you can trust to get you the best results and actually cares about doing just that, look no further than Matthew Shrum..
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27 Jan, 2023 by Tai cheng
Na
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22 Aug, 2016 by Carly edwards
David is great. I would recommend him again and again. He really takes the time to explain things and make sure you are set up correctly. Call David if you need a will, trust, or have any small business needs. Another plus, he is mobile.
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04 Jul, 2024 by Mw
I paid an invoice for a grand, and then he disappeared and completely stopped replying. I had to charge it back on my credit card. stay away from this scam lawyer
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26 Jun, 2024 by Chistopher
A few thoudand in we got some work done lets finish it call me back it's been 2 months
-Chris
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02 Feb, 2024 by Ethan cordes
This is either a very convincing internet scam, or John is a very poor lawyer. After paying his invoice I have essentially lost contact. I went to the littlefield building listed as his office online and could not find any record of Coonley law from the folks I talked to. Please choose another firm at all costs. UPDATE: after asking for a refund, John finally had the time of day to speak with me. He agreed to give me a refund for some LLC filing fees I had paid him. (He never got the filing completed). I have since been trying to follow up and actually receive said refund for over 3 weeks now, but still have had no luck. This man is an absolute scumbag and a joke of an attorney. How he is able to practice law is a crime itself. I leave this review in hopes that nobody else ever has to deal with a crook like John like I did.
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04 Jul, 2024 by Mw
I paid an invoice for a grand, and then he disappeared and completely stopped replying. I had to charge it back on my credit card. stay away from this scam lawyer
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26 Jun, 2024 by Chistopher
A few thoudand in we got some work done lets finish it call me back it's been 2 months
-Chris
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02 Feb, 2024 by Ethan cordes
This is either a very convincing internet scam, or John is a very poor lawyer. After paying his invoice I have essentially lost contact. I went to the littlefield building listed as his office online and could not find any record of Coonley law from the folks I talked to. Please choose another firm at all costs. UPDATE: after asking for a refund, John finally had the time of day to speak with me. He agreed to give me a refund for some LLC filing fees I had paid him. (He never got the filing completed). I have since been trying to follow up and actually receive said refund for over 3 weeks now, but still have had no luck. This man is an absolute scumbag and a joke of an attorney. How he is able to practice law is a crime itself. I leave this review in hopes that nobody else ever has to deal with a crook like John like I did.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Kayla wilson
Very responsive, helpful, patient and professional. Very empathetic and sincere
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15 Mar, 2023 by Resa p
I contacted the firm in December regarding an employment law issue. I wasn't informed of the firm's unavailability until months later. The attorney who reviewed my case wasn't even familiar enough with my situation to know I'm NOT a state employee. I think I dodged a bullet when they decided not to represent me!
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25 Nov, 2021 by Mickey priddy
Martha Owen is awesome at her job!
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11 Oct, 2023 by Charles edward andrew lincoln iv
10 Jun, 2023 by B d
Nice
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01 Jun, 2023 by Eric rishel
11 Oct, 2023 by Charles edward andrew lincoln iv
10 Jun, 2023 by B d
Nice
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01 Jun, 2023 by Eric rishel
10 Oct, 2024 by Dinesh bauri
07 Sep, 2022 by Percy bella
29 Jun, 2022 by Jeislly alvarado
17 Mar, 2020 by Cam
Helped me get my patent approved, although the process was long sean was skillful efficient and decisive not to mention incredibly helpful and I’ve worked with him for almost 4 years now, highly recommend
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17 Mar, 2020 by Lucky12video
Fantastic patent attorney!
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04 Jan, 2018 by Mike h
Represented me in my divorce case. Due to his incompetence I lost almost everything. To this day I am still paying the price for making the decision to hire him. 11/27/2018 RESPONSE to you....I have plenty of bank statements to prove this review is NOT erroneous!
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15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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23 Aug, 2018 by Alexis
When I first hired the firm to represent me I was promised to be represented as if I was one of their own family members. I was facing two charges, one being felony charge that could have easily ruined my future. Thanks to Mark and Ethan my felony charge was never filed and I am on deferred adjudication for the misdemeanor. After I complete that, it's my hope to get my record expunged and move forward from this mess! Thank you Ethan for all of your hard work!!
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22 Dec, 2023 by Raven marie
Do not use this guy whatsoever! I did it online inquiry to set up a consultation. And he reached out to the other party and let them know everything that I said in my consultation inquiry. He represents the other party. I did not know that. This is illegal and I’m reporting him to the board. Completely unprofessional, lacks ethics.
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14 Jun, 2023 by James
Sara has directed Priddy ISD through a difficult time. She is
professional, responsive, and extremely thorough. Her knowledge of school law is remarkable. She is the best!
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22 Mar, 2023 by David hayward
Excellent team of attorneys with specialists in each area of the public school system from HR to 313.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Adam berlin
My attorney Rachael went above and beyond in my consultation to assist in every way possible. I recommend Austin Employment Lawyers highly to anyone who needs their help.
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11 Jul, 2024 by David pickwell
Called several times and couldn't even get through for them to take a valid case ---- they can't even field a call with their one phone, that they can barely afford, stay away.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Praise lord amen
14 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Not a single question about my issue just right to wanting to charge me for a consultation. Just letting you know my experience.
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17 Apr, 2018 by Fs
Rivas and Goldstein did an outstanding job for me. Their outstanding work didn’t go unrecognized, from the start to finish. Jonathan Wu and his knowledge, charismatic, and professionalism was nothing but sensational, marvelous and magnificent. I did not get the opportunity to meet him in person. Talking to him over the phone, email and text. He made me feel like someone I had known for years. Friendly and professional. His legal advice and strategic plans were outstanding. Honesty paid off. He made it so easy for me to open up and be myself and I have no doubt it made his job even easier. I did exactly like he asked as we prepared for my defense. Sometimes I thought I couldn’t make it but he encouraged me from every step. Like we all know nothing comes for free but over the course of Jonathan’s representation just like he made it easy for me to be myself he made it easy for me to work out payments that were fair and not strenuous. His team at RivasGoldstein were awesome from all his paralegals to the office manager. I am forever grateful.
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18 May, 2016 by Aileen
Jonathan helped me prepare a synopsis for a complaints committee meeting. He provided effective probing questions during the meeting and made sure I mentioned specific details that were crucial for the committee members to hear. I was stressed out and worried about possible sanctions, but after our preparation, my mind was eased. He was such an excellent guide for me during the meeting that a committee member expressed how impressed he was with Jonathan! I didn't receive any penalties and am very grateful that Jonathan assisted me throughout this ordeal.
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11 Oct, 2023 by Rich dougherty
Adrian C is my attorney, and he has thoroughly impressed me with his knowledge of the law and has made the other side look foolish and incompetent.
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06 Apr, 2022 by Jaci siegert
01 Mar, 2020 by Nick
11 Oct, 2023 by Rich dougherty
Adrian C is my attorney, and he has thoroughly impressed me with his knowledge of the law and has made the other side look foolish and incompetent.
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06 Apr, 2022 by Jaci siegert
01 Mar, 2020 by Nick
11 Oct, 2023 by Rich dougherty
Adrian C is my attorney, and he has thoroughly impressed me with his knowledge of the law and has made the other side look foolish and incompetent.
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06 Apr, 2022 by Jaci siegert
01 Mar, 2020 by Nick
24 Jan, 2020 by Navid
I had a meeting with him regarding may immigration status and paid him $75 for 45 minutes consultation. I arrived on time but waited one hour for him at his office then I talked him and pass my documents to see am I eligible to apply for green card. He didn't answer my question and asked me to review my documents and answer my question in three days. After one week that I didn't heard back from him I sent him email and leave voice massage. Two days later, his secretary call me and told me if you want to know you are eligible you should pay him again to review your documents and do more research. This was against what he said to me. How many days they need to review five pages documents to simply answer you could apply for GC or not.
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02 Feb, 2016 by Dennis
Mr. Haddad is a fantastic attorney. His office is professional and punctual. Although I was nervous he assisted me and directed me throughout the entire process. He also worked out an affordable payment plan and we secured the visa for my wife. It was great experience and has inspired me to pursue J.D. after I complete my B.A.
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15 Feb, 2014 by Paul f
The Law Office of Sam Haddad was very courteous and professional and very thorough. I would recommend others to contact them for their services. I am very pleased with their services. Paul F.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Government Lawyer Can Do for You
A government lawyer specializes in legal issues related to government policies, regulations, and disputes involving public entities. Whether you are a private individual, business, or government agency, a government lawyer provides expert guidance on navigating the complexities of government law. These attorneys handle cases ranging from constitutional law, administrative law, regulatory compliance, and government contracts to defending or challenging government actions.
Government lawyers help individuals and organizations understand their rights and obligations under the law, represent them in disputes with government agencies, and assist in matters of government contracting, procurement, or public policy.
When Should I Hire a Government Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a government lawyer in several situations involving government regulations, compliance, or disputes. Common reasons to hire a government lawyer include:
- Government contracts and procurement: If you are bidding for or negotiating a contract with a government agency, a lawyer can help ensure compliance with federal, state, or local contracting rules.
- Regulatory compliance: Businesses operating in highly regulated industries (e.g., healthcare, finance, environmental sectors) often need legal guidance to comply with government regulations and avoid penalties.
- Government investigations: If you're being investigated by a government agency such as the IRS, SEC, or EPA, a government lawyer can help defend you against allegations or negotiate settlements.
- Challenging government actions: If a government agency has denied a permit, license, or benefit, a lawyer can help you appeal or challenge the decision in court.
- Constitutional and civil rights issues: If you believe your constitutional rights have been violated by a government entity, such as in cases involving free speech or discrimination, a government lawyer can help you seek justice.
- Public policy or lobbying efforts: If you are involved in lobbying or advocating for policy changes at the local, state, or federal level, a government lawyer can provide legal advice on compliance with lobbying laws and strategies for effective advocacy.
Hiring a government lawyer early in the process can help you navigate complex legal frameworks and avoid costly mistakes when dealing with government-related legal issues.
What Does a Government Lawyer Do?
A government lawyer provides a wide range of services that cover interactions between individuals, businesses, and government entities. They can:
- Assist with government contracts: Helping clients navigate procurement laws, drafting contracts, and resolving disputes related to government contracting.
- Provide regulatory compliance advice: Offering guidance on meeting regulatory requirements for industries subject to federal, state, or local laws.
- Handle administrative law matters: Representing clients before government agencies, such as appealing administrative decisions, applying for permits, or defending against regulatory enforcement actions.
- Challenge or defend government actions: Representing clients in lawsuits involving government agencies, including constitutional challenges, civil rights violations, or disputes over government decisions.
- Negotiate settlements with government entities: If a government agency is pursuing legal action against you or your business, a lawyer can negotiate settlements to avoid costly litigation.
- Advocate for policy changes: Advising clients on legal strategies for influencing public policy, including lobbying and drafting legislation.
- Litigate constitutional issues: Handling cases related to the Constitution, such as First Amendment rights, due process violations, or unlawful government actions.
How Are Government Lawyers Paid?
Government lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the nature of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: For ongoing legal matters, such as regulatory compliance or government contract disputes, lawyers may charge by the hour. Hourly rates can vary depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Flat fee: For specific services, such as drafting a government contract or filing an administrative appeal, some lawyers charge a flat fee.
- Retainer: For clients who need ongoing legal support, such as businesses frequently interacting with government agencies, a lawyer may charge a retainer fee. This is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
- Contingency fee: In some cases involving litigation, such as civil rights violations, a lawyer may work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they win or settle the case.
It’s important to discuss fee structures with your lawyer during the initial consultation to avoid surprises.
How Much Does a Government Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a government lawyer depends on the complexity of the legal issue, the lawyer's experience, and their fee structure. Here are some general cost estimates:
- Hourly rates: Government lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For specific legal services, such as drafting a government contract, flat fees can range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the nature of the service.
- Retainer fees: A retainer for ongoing legal work with government agencies can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the scope and frequency of the work.
- Contingency fees: In cases where a lawyer works on contingency, their fee is usually a percentage (typically 25% to 40%) of any settlement or damages awarded if the case is successful.
Be sure to get a clear estimate of costs during your consultation to ensure that you understand the fees associated with your case.
Top Questions to Ask a Government Lawyer
When hiring a government lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they have the experience and skills needed for your specific situation. Key questions to ask include:
-
What is your experience with government law cases?
Make sure the lawyer has substantial experience in handling cases or issues involving government agencies, regulatory compliance, or constitutional law. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services - whether by the hour, flat fee, retainer, or contingency fee - and request an estimate of costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your legal options and the likelihood of success based on your specific situation. -
How do you handle interactions with government agencies?
Ask about their approach to dealing with government entities and their experience with specific agencies relevant to your case (e.g., IRS, EPA, SEC). -
Have you handled cases like mine before?
Ask about their experience with similar cases and whether they have achieved favorable outcomes in the past. -
Who will handle my case?
Clarify whether the lawyer you are meeting with will personally handle your case or whether junior attorneys or paralegals will do most of the work.
How to Check the Credibility of a Government Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a reputable government lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Review their professional experience: Look for specific experience in government-related legal issues, such as regulatory compliance, government contracts, or administrative law, on their website or professional profile.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Check online reviews and ratings on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to get insight into the lawyer’s reputation and track record.
- Ask for references: Request references from previous clients who have worked with the lawyer on government-related matters to understand their experience and effectiveness.
- Check for membership in relevant organizations: Look for memberships in professional organizations such as the American Bar Association's Administrative Law Section or the National Institute of Government Procurement, which can indicate the lawyer’s focus on government law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first meeting with a government lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant information and documents. Here’s what you should bring:
- Detailed description of your legal issue: Be prepared to explain your situation, whether it’s a regulatory compliance question, a government contract issue, or a dispute with a government agency.
- Relevant documents: Bring any paperwork related to your case, such as contracts, permits, letters from government agencies, or notices of investigation.
- A list of questions: Write down any questions you have about your case, including the legal process, potential outcomes, and costs.
- Timeline of events: Provide a clear timeline of any relevant events, such as the issuance of government orders or interactions with government agencies.
- Goals for the outcome: Be ready to discuss what you hope to achieve, whether it’s a favorable settlement, regulatory compliance, or overturning a government decision.
By being organized and prepared, you can help your lawyer understand your situation more quickly and give you the best legal advice moving forward.
