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07 Feb, 2024 by Justin
Mr. Deignan is a very outgoing and thorough lawyer, he went above and beyond in his assistance to me and I strongly recommend his services, he is a fantastic lawyer.
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06 Jan, 2023 by Micaela
As a residential renter, I was befuddled and nervous about a complex new lease my landlord presented me with. Teddy charged a reasonable flat rate to look at my old and my new lease, defined key terms, and let me know if I had anything to be concerned about. I didn’t. He’s warm, smart, and loves his work. Can you ask for anything more?
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27 Jul, 2022 by David
After researching several different attorneys to seek out legal advice in regard to my landlords failure to make repairs, I took notice to Teddy's great reviews, and called his office. He was so patient, informative, and gave my wife and I much needed legal advice to best handle our situation. Not only did he hear me out, but I could tell that he was passionate and caring in regard to our frustrating situation.
My wife and I feel like we have someone in our corner now. That is enormous for us as we have had our backs against a wall for 19 months. After speaking with Teddy I feel empowered now knowing our rights as NYC tenants. I highly recommend his services to anyone with landlord/tenant issues!
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08 Jan, 2024 by Lori
We won't use any other attorney for Arbitration/ Lit files at our billing company, when we take on a new no fault client we specifically state we won't bill unless we can use him. I have worked with other attorneys in the past and the results Stefan and his firm produce for our doctors is amazing. I can say from experience if your cases are with another attorney you are losing money.
Stefan goes above and beyond for his clients and isn't just a great attorney, he's a really great person.
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07 Jan, 2024 by Joe
Stefan is the only attorney who always gets back to you. He is in constant communication with my staff and I giving updates and options on my arbitration / litigation cases. He is the only attorney that works on all my cases as if it was his own.
He will also tell you like it is and put your mind at ease with his knowledge , experience and expertise.
Honestly he is a good human being with empathy is a true professional
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06 Jan, 2024 by Denn
Stefan and his team are excellent at no fault insurance collections. Highly recommend.
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21 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Raquel to help me on a real estate transaction that had a complex partnership structure, a strict timeframe, and other nuances. After working with her for the past few months, I can only offer the highest praise for her dedication, insightfulness, and professionalism. Being in real estate in NYC for many years, I've dealt with many attorneys, and I can without hesitation say that Raquel was one of the best.
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15 Apr, 2014 by Joseph t
Raquel Vasserman has helped me with a number or real estate and several legal transactions over the past few years. I am very pleased. She is a strong attorney with a great partner, well known and respected, easy to deal with and very diversified in her knowledge of law.
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25 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Vasserman helped me with a difficult situation with my family and throughout the whole process, I felt like she actually cared about what was going on, which very different from several other attorneys I have encountered. She personally took all my phone calls and was always quick to respond to my questions. I would highly recommend her to anyone that has a legal issue.
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19 Feb, 2016 by Andrew
I've known and worked with Jed since our daughters were in pre-school nearly twenty years ago. A calm demeanor, a sharp mind and a wicked sense of humor. Always ready with good legal and strategic advice on how to close the deal and protect the client's interest.
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01 Feb, 2016 by Rebecca
Jed has acted as our attorney for multiple development projects in New York City and internationally. Regardless of the complexity of an issue, he has been an invaluable resource in negotiating and structuring historic tax credit deals, conventional loans, tenant leases, and joint venture agreements. We have presented Jed with hugely challenging issues and situations and he has helped us to navigate all of them.
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21 Apr, 2016 by Elena
I am very pleased with my experience. I broke my ankle, which required surgery, in a restaurant after the owners placed a "ramp" (aka - a rug & plank of wood) over a very small step in-between two rooms. Long story short: I slipped and fell. The restaurant owners were very hostile, blamed me, and refused to even consider paying for my surgery. I first called two other law offices and got frustrated because I was asked to go back (with a broken ankle) and take pictures of the step so the lawyer can THEN determine if they will take my case. I only spoke with assistants and at no point in time did the attorneys call me to discuss what options I have. But it was a completely different experience when I called Katherine's office. Within 2 days, Katherine called me back herself (not her assistant) and told me she went and took pictures and video of the step that caused my fall. After I hired Katherine, I was pleased with our level of communication because she explained what would happen over the next few weeks, all which came true. Katherine told me the restauarnt will keep ignoring me until we file a motion to sue and survive their motion to dismiss. She then explained that I do not have to accept what is offered if it does not reflect what I deserve for my pain and suffering, (in addition to my loss of wages). Ultimately, the restaurant that offered me nothing in the beginning made a very attractive settlement offer, which I happily accepted. Katherine and her team were wonderful to work with and I would recommend them to anyone.
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08 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
To make things short, two years ago I fell on property which belonged to the city. The side walks weren't cleared from the snow. Nine months have passed since I was able to return to work, physical therapy, hospital visit, healing pelvic fracture etc.. After multiple attempts with attorneys, no results from the court. After dealing with attorney Katherine Ladyzhensky, she was able to obtain the money to help pay the bills and also compensate my time loss at work. Thank you again for everything, and getting my life back together.
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04 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Steve handled my eviction case against a nightmare tenant and I finally got my apartment back! Thanks again!
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02 Apr, 2012 by Scott
Ms. Amilov is highly capable and was responsive to my concerns. She helped me understand our process and professionally resolved my requests. She is a good choice and performs her services well!
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09 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. Dukhovich is an extremely knowledgeable, kind and diligent attorney. She will take the time to discuss your case with you and provide insightful on the spot advice and strategy. She frequently followed up and kept me updated me throughout the entire process, which was very reassuring.
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16 Dec, 2009 by Andrew b.
My name is Andrew B., while I was growing up all I ever did was be harassed and violated physically by the officers of the NYPD. I recall one day which is documented in my criminal history. I went and told my mother that I was assaulted by the police and she was not really educated due to health problems, so she states to me you shouldn’t have your behind in them streets. From that point on I figured that the NYPD can do whatever they want to do. I didn’t know where to go to for help because they say Moms' know best, so if she doesn’t know who am I suppose to go to for help. That was 1991.
I was arrested in 2003 and I was accused of a crime of possession which nothing was recovered. I was choked and maced by NYPD’s finest during my arrest. I spoke to my attorney that I had for the case about what happened to me and that’s when I was introduced to these great attorneys for civil rights violation cases named Andrew Stoll and Leo Glickman. Once I spoke to them I felt a sense of comfort because these were people that let you know that all the things that are done to you aren’t always right and if you feel that your rights are violated you should speak about it.
It’s now 2009 and I am finally awake from being asleep all these years. If I would have never been introduced to these attorneys that are great at what they stand for, I would still think it was alright for me to be stopped and frisked and not feel violated as a man. Leo and Andrew have gave me strength to overcome the fear of being afraid to speak up, because the people that are violating your rights will make you feel like they are not violating your rights as if they are just doing their job or just because they are in a position of power they make you feel hopeless. Andrew and Leo will make you feel the sense of comfortableness; you won’t feel helpless anymore because they are here to help you. They’re only just a call away.
Has anyone violated your civil rights? Stoll, Glickman & Bellina are the attorneys for the job. Don’t wait until it’s too late to speak out! Get HELP!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Jay hernandez
This process was very long and tiring my attorney walk me thru the whole process. Trust me im not so easy to work with, lol she was very patience with me. She was in contact me with me every step of the way. Thank you Jenna consumer attorney. I would recommend them 💯
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26 Sep, 2024 by Jose garcia
Consumer Attorneys provided exceptional service throughout my entire case. Their team was professional, attentive, and always available to answer my questions. They explained every step clearly, ensuring I felt confident and informed. Their expertise and dedication truly made a difference, and I’m grateful for their hard work. Highly recommend!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Lenae brainard
Many thanks to Dawn and her team for working diligently and quickly to assist me with correcting a background check error! If you are hesitant, don't be. Reach out to them and see if they can help you! They helped me tremendously - I cannot thank them enough.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Gracephotography pdx
OMG, what can I say? Lorraine was an angel sent to me during a crisis. She helped me navigate all these complex laws that can make an ordinary person feel super scared and paralyzed. She spent so much time going through all the paperwork, providing various solutions and ideas on how to deal with it.
Despite my limited budget, she was kind enough to show me how to maximize my budget while still taking care of everything legally. I really, really appreciate her help and highly recommend her for any of your issues. She not only helps you but genuinely makes you feel supported. That meant the world to me. Thanks again, Lorraine!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Sydney miller
Lorraine was extremely helpful in guiding me in the next steps of my Trademark process. She was detailed in her explanations and ensured I understood the process. I look forward to working with her again!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Maya basecamp cards
Brett was beyond generous with his time and knowledge when I contacted the firm for domain advice. He phoned me back within 10 minutes and spent 20 minutes giving me legal advice in my free consult. He was an absolute hero for me and my small business. Although I didn’t go through with working with them, (because of his genuine legal counsel) I was extremely impressed by his kindness and quick response execution on getting me answers I’ve been waiting weeks for online. Thank you Brett!
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04 Jul, 2024 by Francis ariste
I'd like to thank Mr Gershon for everything he's done in helping fight for my rights to be a part of my son's life. Mr Gershon took his time to listen to my concerns & guided me in the right direction in this stressful & difficult process. A true professional & expert in his field.
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23 May, 2024 by Vincent earley
I highly recommend Mr. Rob Gershon, I recently had a case in Family court that I am Happy to say I was pleased with the outcome of the case, Mr. Gershon is very professional, he responds within reasonable time to emails and calls, and very detailed with information, when in court Mr. Gershon states all facts by law and goes the extra mile for his Clients based on my experience.
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06 May, 2024 by Nathalie nayman
Robert Gershon was an absolute pleasure to work with! In April 2024 I contacted Robert for help with a legal custody case. What made my situation challenging is a very tough deadline, but he still made it happen and I got my paperwork in time. I was blown away by the professionalism and all the help I received. I would absolutely recommend Robert to anybody seeking legal help!
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16 Jun, 2023 by John
I said to Apryl more than once that working with her was one of the best parts of selling our co-op in Brooklyn. She was responsive, patient, positive, honest, hilarious, and kind. On top of that, she made navigating the legal side of real estate a breeze. She's the best
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09 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Apryl has helped our family on three different occasions, representing us on both the sale and purchase side. She is knowledgeable, helpful at every turn, truly has her client's back, and she gives very good advice. When working with Apryl she tells you like it is and really helps her clients understand the details of complicated real estate contracts. She is quick to point out the good and the bad and will help you navigate a negotiation knowing you have a true pro working on your behalf. Apryl is always just a phone call away to answer any question big or small. To top it all off, Apryl is an all around great person and a pleasure to talk to and engage with. We are so grateful we had Apryl in our corner and will continue to work with her going forward. We cannot recommend her enough to anyone who needs a real estate attorney in Brooklyn.
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07 Oct, 2022 by Zach
Apryl was recommended to us by our Realtor, and after one conversation we knew she would be out attorney. She helped us buy our first home in Brooklyn. We couldn't have been less prepared for the roller coaster. Our deal was complicated, but Apryl helped us through every step and explained everything to us in language we could understand. She is patient, kind, blunt, scrappy, and hilarious. Apryl has a gift for putting overly complicated legal jargon into blunt, everyday language that we understood. I would definitely recommend Apryl Hand to anyone in the Real Estate market. She is the best!
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02 Feb, 2024 by Jhon zhimnay
I unfortunately got a failure to yield citation, Michael got it dismissed as he said he would! Thank you guys for getting it dismissed!!
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19 Jan, 2024 by Paulie connor
Michael’s firms have helped me numerous times as being a tenant, as well as a landlord great overall service on both sides!
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20 Nov, 2023 by Ab
great attorneys they put there all into each case.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Mary lopez
The case was my dads that lives in NY and I live in Va., therefore I never met Mr. Hernandez in person however had the pleasure to speak with him over the phone many times. He was always kind and even funny towards me. Super easy and his secretary/aid Bernadine was a delight to speak to. So sweet and humble
Thank you for your services
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23 Sep, 2024 by Giancarlo cesani
13 Sep, 2024 by Ariana stanley
I wanna give a big big shoutout to David Doyaga office and especially Cathy extremely helpful and very knowledgeable made the process very easy and smooth if u need good services Cathy is your go to person thank you so much for all your help. I Recommend David Doyaga office x100
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21 Aug, 2023 by Mary e white
09 Jan, 2023 by Anthony peña
Best lawyers
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23 Aug, 2022 by A mimi
Very thorough and details oriented service . Helped me reviewing a commercial lease and walk me through understanding very important terms.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Charles c rankin
21 Jun, 2024 by Enikanselu esther
I am extremely satisfied with the services provided by The Law Office of Stephen R. Chesley. They handled my case with care and expertise, and I felt very well taken care of.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Ron link
Mark is exceptional in his knowledge of probate, trusts and estate law.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Charles c rankin
21 Jun, 2024 by Enikanselu esther
I am extremely satisfied with the services provided by The Law Office of Stephen R. Chesley. They handled my case with care and expertise, and I felt very well taken care of.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Ron link
Mark is exceptional in his knowledge of probate, trusts and estate law.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Elizabeth montejo
20 May, 2024 by L cl
21 Mar, 2024 by Andrew engert
Do not return phone calls, para legal may pose as lawyers or try to give advice as a lawyer, lies about their willingness to take clients.
Ultimately I was recommended this office for help after three electrical fires in my building, by my city council woman’s office. They had already recieved many documents from my city council woman’s office pertaining to my case.
When I spoke with them they said they aren’t taking new cases. Why would you tell my city council woman’s office your interest in my case and then not take it?
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11 May, 2019 by Timothy
I so regret that I hired her as my divorce lawyer. Almost immediately, to my dismay and confusion, she wanted me to concede and make concessions to my ex that gave my ex so much of the power and benefits. When I think I could have and should have gotten 50/50 custody of my kids, she told me I would never gotten it without ever making it clear as to why and she thinks I should be happy that I got the couple days that I did and that I don't have to pay full child support. Keep in mind that my ex makes more than double what I make and she would have had to pay me monthly spousal maintenance if it was 50/50. I also got left with all the marital debt because Sofia thinks I should have been happy with the reduced child support. l feel like Sofia did as little as possible and left me, who was under so much emotional stress and duress, to figure things out, which led me to miss so much in the stipulation agreement that will keep me down for the next 15 years. In the agreement, I found errors and inconsistencies that she should have picked up on. In retrospect, even if it had cost me $50,000 or more, it would have been cheaper to have gone to court and to fight for a better deal than to give in and sign the one I did. So again, maybe Sofia is a good lawyer for some things but divorce isn't one of them. Find another divorce lawyer.
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13 Mar, 2018 by Valerie
I hired Sofia twice and she was excellent in representing me in child support matters; and most importantly we won. I highly recommend her.
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12 Mar, 2018 by Sara
She simplified legal language for me so I knew exactly what I was signing. As long as she has availability, I wouldn’t get advice from any other attorney.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Omar solis
Answered my call quickly and gave me advice about my landlord situation and was open to helping with any lawsuit if needed.
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31 May, 2024 by Trevor paccione
26 Mar, 2024 by Floflo craftcorner
He is honest keeps things real will give you the worst case scenario that you just might feel he is against you but that is how he is won the case. Felt stress but he pulled through he knows what he is doing Just to add you are very professional and straight forward. Would definitely trust you with all my cases. For you keep it real.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Joanne joseph
Any review on here saying they was great or helpful is fake. They don’t help they don’t show up to court and that don’t tell you what’s going on with your case my lawyer quit the job and no one bothered to resign my case or show up to court I end up losing my case and getting a paid lawyer for the fair hearing I’m fighting to keep my nursing job and they don’t even show up to court
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26 Jul, 2024 by Becc rome
Do not use this agency because they do not help you whether you're disabled or not, because it will give you a lot of excuses and run arounds, and they don't fight hard enough for your situation especially Lauren price the attorney who did nothing to help with my eviction, and she sided with the agency that's called WELLLIFE NETWORK who is abusive to disabled people by throwing them out without any guidance and no help. Brooklyn defenders do not help anyone who needed the help. They're selfish and lazy, period.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Ceven loochi
These are the worst attorneys they don’t ever do their job right plus they don’t ever answer the phone
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16 Sep, 2024 by Joanne joseph
Any review on here saying they was great or helpful is fake. They don’t help they don’t show up to court and that don’t tell you what’s going on with your case my lawyer quit the job and no one bothered to resign my case or show up to court I end up losing my case and getting a paid lawyer for the fair hearing I’m fighting to keep my nursing job and they don’t even show up to court
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26 Jul, 2024 by Becc rome
Do not use this agency because they do not help you whether you're disabled or not, because it will give you a lot of excuses and run arounds, and they don't fight hard enough for your situation especially Lauren price the attorney who did nothing to help with my eviction, and she sided with the agency that's called WELLLIFE NETWORK who is abusive to disabled people by throwing them out without any guidance and no help. Brooklyn defenders do not help anyone who needed the help. They're selfish and lazy, period.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Ceven loochi
These are the worst attorneys they don’t ever do their job right plus they don’t ever answer the phone
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16 Sep, 2024 by Joanne joseph
Any review on here saying they was great or helpful is fake. They don’t help they don’t show up to court and that don’t tell you what’s going on with your case my lawyer quit the job and no one bothered to resign my case or show up to court I end up losing my case and getting a paid lawyer for the fair hearing I’m fighting to keep my nursing job and they don’t even show up to court
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26 Jul, 2024 by Becc rome
Do not use this agency because they do not help you whether you're disabled or not, because it will give you a lot of excuses and run arounds, and they don't fight hard enough for your situation especially Lauren price the attorney who did nothing to help with my eviction, and she sided with the agency that's called WELLLIFE NETWORK who is abusive to disabled people by throwing them out without any guidance and no help. Brooklyn defenders do not help anyone who needed the help. They're selfish and lazy, period.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Ceven loochi
These are the worst attorneys they don’t ever do their job right plus they don’t ever answer the phone
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16 Sep, 2024 by Joanne joseph
Any review on here saying they was great or helpful is fake. They don’t help they don’t show up to court and that don’t tell you what’s going on with your case my lawyer quit the job and no one bothered to resign my case or show up to court I end up losing my case and getting a paid lawyer for the fair hearing I’m fighting to keep my nursing job and they don’t even show up to court
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26 Jul, 2024 by Becc rome
Do not use this agency because they do not help you whether you're disabled or not, because it will give you a lot of excuses and run arounds, and they don't fight hard enough for your situation especially Lauren price the attorney who did nothing to help with my eviction, and she sided with the agency that's called WELLLIFE NETWORK who is abusive to disabled people by throwing them out without any guidance and no help. Brooklyn defenders do not help anyone who needed the help. They're selfish and lazy, period.
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by Ceven loochi
These are the worst attorneys they don’t ever do their job right plus they don’t ever answer the phone
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Joanne joseph
Any review on here saying they was great or helpful is fake. They don’t help they don’t show up to court and that don’t tell you what’s going on with your case my lawyer quit the job and no one bothered to resign my case or show up to court I end up losing my case and getting a paid lawyer for the fair hearing I’m fighting to keep my nursing job and they don’t even show up to court
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26 Jul, 2024 by Becc rome
Do not use this agency because they do not help you whether you're disabled or not, because it will give you a lot of excuses and run arounds, and they don't fight hard enough for your situation especially Lauren price the attorney who did nothing to help with my eviction, and she sided with the agency that's called WELLLIFE NETWORK who is abusive to disabled people by throwing them out without any guidance and no help. Brooklyn defenders do not help anyone who needed the help. They're selfish and lazy, period.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Ceven loochi
These are the worst attorneys they don’t ever do their job right plus they don’t ever answer the phone
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12 Sep, 2024 by Monica schulman
THIS MAN IS UNPROFESSIONAL AND INAPPROPRIATE WITH HIS FACEBOOK PAGE AND WOULD NEVER USE HIS SERVICES FOR THAT REASON.
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10 Dec, 2023 by Patrick sullivan
16 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Do not use at all cost. Edmund Fong is lazy, not knowledgeable and will not represent the client. He showed up in court verifying if this is the correct case. Reciting all the facts that are not true. We lost the case and he just walked off pretending nothing happened. Two days later, he called me to remind me of the balance. SeriouslY!?
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18 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
I recently had an extremely disappointing experience with Olufunlola Olayemi Oni From beginning to end, the level of incompetence displayed by her was astounding.
She was recommeneded by one of my friend , she seemed not to have an idea of what she was doing.
She lack knowledge and skills required to properly handle my situation, and I was left feeling frustrated and disregarded. Furthermore, her lack of communication and follow-through added to my dissatisfaction, I will never recomnmed this woman for anything.
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27 May, 2020 by Anonymous
He comes off as very competent during your consultation but it’s downhill from there. He’s incredibly lax when it comes to giving proper attention to his clients. He seldom returns emails and almost never returns phone calls and he’s chronically late. On two occasions I sat in the reception ares for nearly well over an hour ... he wasn’t even in the office, I had to wait and when he showed up, we spoke for no more than 15 minutes but his bill showed the he met with me for three hours.
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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.
