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15 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Bambury to apply for Social Security Disability. It took 3 years. I only met him at the end of the process when I appealed the initial Denial. He was exceptionally rude and refused to sit near me and did not talk to me at all, not even about my case. He did not contribute with my video hearing with the judge. I feel like a fool for trusting this person, especially since I have a Law Degree from a different state. His handling of my case was unacceptable and I paid the price for not doing my due diligence in researching NY State Law and blindly trusting him and his office staff.
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11 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Kevin Bambury represented me year's ago on a Disability Case. He was very cruel and I was diagnosed with many problems. He was interagating me like I was lying. I would never treat a Client so cruelly.
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12 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
My husband and I went in because the payment of 1414.00 with CCCS was to high hoping a bankruptcy would help. Kevin reviewed our paperwork he advised us chapter 13 would be about 900.00 a month knowing Bob had worked overtime the first 3 months of the yr he stated the payment could be SLIGHTLY HIGHER we should wait about 4 mths and my husb should not work the overtime the courts look at the last 6 months of bank statements. So with knowing this we gave him a retainer of $1000 only to to find out that the payment went up to 867/2 wks the courts go back a yr. We would never had gone this way knowing that the payment is only a few dollars lower, we would have seekked other options. He also told us to stop paying the credit cards, keep the car payment and mortgages current. Now we are not only behind in payments that we would have tried to make arrangements for with Bobs overtime we atre out the retainer fee.
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21 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
He will lie to you over and over again until the case ends and brush you off with a sentence you could have got representing yourself, although he is probably different as a payed lawyer because I have heard other people having a better experience but as a payed lawyer! Every other person who has had him as a public defender on the other hand will tell you try an get a different one. Don't settle for him as a public defender
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16 Jul, 2022 by Matthew
I sought Mr. Canzano's advice regarding a sensitive matter that is especially important to me. I sent him an email on 06/03/2022. Rome (Romolo) responded to my professional, well thought out inquiry with a terse and unprofessional three sentence response. Despite his response, and hopeful he would agree to talk to me, I brushed off his poor attitude. I sent him a respectful (something he lacks the ability to be) reply on 06/06/2022 and followed up on 06/10/2022 and he ignored both of those inquiries. I strongly recommend you look elsewhere if you want professional assistance. Ignoring a prospective client is highly disrespectful and unprofessional. I was very hurt by his conduct. Avoid Rome Canzano; you will save yourself a lot of grief. If AVVO allowed me to do so, I would rate Rome zero stars.
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15 Nov, 2017 by Chris spoor
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02 Aug, 2017 by Rich maybe
Did not hire him. He was very rude
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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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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 toremind me of the balance. SeriouslY!?
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23 Sep, 2020 by Beth
Doesn’t return phone calls. Doesn’t return emails. Drags his feet in getting deals done. Thinks everyone is beneath him. Time to retire.
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22 Jul, 2015 by Unhappy buyer
This lawyer is incompetent. Will not return calls or emails and gets caught in lies continuously. i would not recommend this attorney to anyone. He should retire.
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16 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Ricardo doesn't pay his bills to contractors he hires. I spent over 10 hours doing consulting for design work at his house in Woodbury, CT. Between 5 hours of in person and another 5 in the design and redesign process. We agreed on a price, and he has yet to pay the bill from Feburary and March. As someone who should be ethical and follow contracts as a contract attorney you would think he would honor one that is given to him by a contractor. The icing on the cake is that he hired someone else to do the work from the designs he essentially stole from me.
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10 Oct, 2020 by Joe
Not that good represented me took a beating not good at all never prepared made many promises I would not recommend him at all
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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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16 Jan, 2014 by Kyle p
Very unprofessional with my wife and I Beware this guy is strange. Has many complaints from town officials
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10 Jun, 2015 by Caroline
I flew to NY, had a confirmed a meeting with Lawyer Ellen Boyle who stood me up, had me standing outside her Yonkers office in 9degree weather for 1 hour in Feb.2015, I called, texted over over no response, a pattern of this lawyer EllenBoyle. My mother died June 1 - it's June 10 today, she won't turn over my mother's Will hence mom is stuck in the funeral home. Ellen Boyle is UNPROFESSIONAL, does not followup, does not return emails or calls until days after. Her work ethic as a lawyer is TERRIBLE. Ellen Boyle does not have an assistant/receptionist at her office. Ellen Boyle is a LAZY lawyer; June 2,2015 my mothers Estate lawyer called/emailed NO response but Ellen first calls my brother about the Will who is not her client; it's now June 10, we have no idea why this "lawyer" will provide my mother's Will - WHY IS SHE KEEPING MY MOTHER'S WILL? Do not hire, Ellen Boyle, she's the most unprofessional lawyer, laziest lawyer who will keep you hanging. That should scare you if you to trial and her as the lawyer.
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24 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
My rating of this attorney is poor. I hired John Silvestri because he was covered under my legal plan. He did not consult Hyatt legal and advise me of what was covered. When I received the first bill, I told him I believed he was to bill Hyatt legal, which he did not. Hyatt legal called him to advise him as well. He then told me I may want to find another attorney AFTER he already started the work on my case. I told him I did not want to find another attorney. This is when he stopped communicating and did not even tell me the status of my case and he had my email and phone number (no excuse). This went on fro March until August. I finally got someone to call me back from his office and he had passed my case off to another person in the office without my knowledge.
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01 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
You're better off downloading contracts from the internet. He doesn't bother to review contracts coming from the other party and doesn't lift a finger to act in your interest.
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28 Feb, 2022 by You know who i am
Your a corrupted individual that's likes to lock up black boys and falsely accused them of crimes that was not committed from them for money. You will be judged on judgement day .
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20 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Incredibly bad karma is coming for this person by how she treats others. Very shameful and unfortunate. Look out before you decide to give money to this person.
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01 Mar, 2013 by Richard
Dealt with Attorney Hamm when I filed a complaint about corruption and sexism. I had the misfortune of trying to file a complaint against another lawyer, who falls under her "jurisdiction" and she felt the need to hang up on me numerous times! An embarrassment to all public servants! Typical arrogant lawyer!
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28 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Several years ago I retained Ms. Kathleen Gaines for a divorce (her address at the time was 4701 Military Rd.). Her performance never impressed me. I had to go to court on numerous occasions and nothing was achieved. Once, when I arrived at her office for a scheduled meeting, I only found unsupervised children sitting at her desk and playing with her computer. On that day, she made me wait more than half an hour. On another occasion, when she arrived late to a court date, I waved at her so that she would be aware of my presence. As if living in her own world, she just sat down to browse through the pages of her fashion and style magazine. She didn't even pay attention to what was going on in the court room. Later on, she attempted to make up stories of what had happened on that day, but she became silent when I told her that "I was in that court room the whole time." Not being able to give me any updates, she would just tell me that my case was in "limbo." There was no plan, no vision, no strategy, just a desire to continue adding hours to the monthly bill. During those years, the only true help that I received came from agencies that address domestic violence. Of all the lawyers I have hired in my life, Ms. Gaines is by far the worst one. I didn't even see honest effort on her side. Thankfully, I have come across much more efficient, reliable, and determined lawyers since then.
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04 May, 2017 by Anonymous
under no circumstance should you let this man represent you. He just yes you to death and let you believe he is working on your case and meanwhile nothing is being done. He encourages plea bargaining without disputing the facts. unfortunately by the time I realized hat was happening it was too late. I later consulted another lawyer on the case who deemed he committed malpractice but as I said it was too late.
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28 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
As soon as my case was done he never answered another phone call, email, and a certified letter was even refused. All I wanted was clarification on the final disposition of my case.
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16 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I have worked with many attorneys and I wouldn't hire this guy to wash my car let alone represent my legal interests. When you ask a question he makes up an answer instead of telling you he needs to research it. He says "uh" every other word and clearly needs a few classes in English, as well as 3 more years in law school.
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09 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
I had the misfortune of meeting John several years ago. First he misrepresented himself as a special prosecutor for the DA's office when he was privately representing a complainant. When his claims were dismissed in one court (city), he just moved over and filed virtually the same complaint in another court (county). He also somehow got a clueless magistrate judge to issue an order for a defendant to surrender property (a civil issue) based on false claims in a criminal harassment case.
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23 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I cannot ever recommend this lawyer. She really hurt my case by not providing all the facts to me, while also misrepresenting matters, and making unilateral decisions on her own. She did not know how to correctly file even a basic pendente lite with proper supporting documents. Also when the Judge gave any orders, she would incorrectly interpret them. It is difficult to believe that was possible considering her many years of experience. Unfortunately, she also maintained a very hostile and acrimonious relationship with opposing counsel, and did not provide me all and especially crucial letters and paperwork from them. She was very expensive and billed for many hours of work that she could not possibly have put in. She was a very glib and smooth talker, and as she called herself a collaborative lawyer, I was mistaken into thinking she would try to settle the case. I was wrong, the case actually dragged on as she created many problems as a result of her failing to keep track of required legal technicalities in a timely manner. She set a very bad and poor tone for my case from outset, so later on the other attorney I was forced to hire had a very difficult time trying to get things back on track. She consumed huge amounts of money while getting a very poor outcome for my children. The Judge can only make decisions based on what is presented to him. She appeared to be intimidated while speaking to Judge or the Law secretary in chambers, so did not state facts. Also damaging was that she did not convey to me clearly or actually misrepresented what was said or advised by the Judge. I doubt this is an ethical way of practicing law. If required I can provide actual and specific instances. I do not have words strong enough to warn you to stay away from this attorney, unless you want a mess on your hands. I am writing this to try and make sure others do not suffer consequences similar to mine.
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14 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Had a complicated case involving civil fraud. Mr. Macy too often would be unresponsive, would make inadequate progress, and would put us on the back burner. This is a seven figure case, difficult, but dissatisfied with Mr. Macy's handling of it. He is spreading himself too thin, and does nothing to change.
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16 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
I had occasion to find myself in Judge Tillman's court. The decision he renderwd has ABSULUTELY NOTHING TO DO with this review! He listened attentively to the plaintiff, as would be expected. As the defendant, he seemed as if he could care less about my testimony. I outright refuted the plaintiff's facts and without a moment's thought, the judge ruled in favor of the plaintiff! I sat in the judge's courtroom on the first bench for well over an hour and listened objectively to nine cases ! The judge sustained all of them in the plaintiff's favor withour batting an eye! I'm positive that my decision will be overturned on appeal, but what about all those other people who didn't get their fair Shake! I feel certain that his decisions were entirely based on quotas he had to reach! A fair attorney needs to be open minded and be able to hear out both sides objectively. when taking on a case. If he feels uncomfortable about his client, he shouldn't represent him. As a judge and an attorney, in my opinion, he lacks that ability. if my opinion is worth anything, i'd stay away from him. If you find yourself in his court room, ask for a postponement ! Hopefully you'll get a much more objective and open minded judge who isn't afraid to make a decision that might impact his job !
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25 Apr, 2023 by Robert
Awful experience! Zero professionalism or communication! She is very disrespectful and rude! Please read her reviews everywhere! Terrible
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15 Sep, 2016 by David
I used Wladis several years ago and was treated to nothing other than a big fat bill, a bunch of hot air and promises that he couldn't keep and had no intention of keeping. Once he had my retainer fee, he was inaccessible, delegating responsibility to a younger attorney who was honest but incompetent. Stay away from this guy.
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12 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
He was unaware of our closing date two days before. He hadn't touched the file. Couldn't find information that had been emailed to him. He said he would "get right on it" but it took another month. And then to top it all off, he couldn't be bothered to transfer the money to our account. Steer clear!
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06 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
After retaining attorney after initial meeting on real estate transaction, 1) spoke with/dealt with him total of perhaps 4 or 5 times over 3 months period (for about 5 minutes each). 2) Dealt not just exclusively, but probably 98% with paralegal who - by that person's own admission - FORGOT to follow up with purchasing party for A MONTH, 3) did not safeguard my best interests when buyer misrepresented/lied, in writing (email) their submission of documents; 4) points 3 & 4 resulted in my losing additional THOUSANDS of dollars; 5) Paralegal then lashed out at me, was rude, condescending, insulting. And for the first time in any legal transaction I have been a part of (4 or 5 real estate trans alone), was told THE AFTERNOON BEFORE that I would be going into a Real Estate Closing WITHOUT MY PAID, RETAINED LEGAL REPRESENTATION/ATTORNEY PRESENT (Vis. I Went into a Real Estate Closing with a paralegal - no attorney). 6) If that wasn't enough, I was contacted weeks after closing finally occurred that - due to ADDITIONAL ERRORS MADE NOT OF MY OWN - I needed to pay additional monies - so even when we did finally get to the close, without the legal representation I paid for, the close wasn't even handled correctly
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24 Apr, 2021 by Sal
Check out his past. https://apps.health.ny.gov/pubdoh/professionals/doctors/conduct/factions/FileDownloadAction.action?finalActionId=1545&fileName=HRG+164126.pdf&fileSeqNum=1 https://apps.health.ny.gov/pubdoh/professionals/doctors/conduct/factions/FileDownloadAction.action?finalActionId=1522&fileName=BRD+164126.pdf&fileSeqNum=1
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27 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Todd was my "lawyer" in a family court matter....I quickly learned he has no clue, no spine and no understanding of professional ethics! Steer clear of this one
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23 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Hired as my real estate lawyer. Took forever to get anything done, dragged his feet on everything, and was impossible to get a hold of. Either he's over working himself or just not working hard enough. I wouldn't recommend him if you would like to close in your house sooner rather than later.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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).
  5. Have you handled cases like mine before?
    Ask about their experience with similar cases and whether they have achieved favorable outcomes in the past.
  6. 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.

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