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17 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
In my observation, Mark Cottle’s approach as an attorney in high-conflict situations was concerning. I would expect a legal professional to encourage resolution and de-escalate tension. Instead, his tactics appeared to escalate conflict unnecessarily, making an already challenging situation even moredifficult to navigate.
While I was not Mr. Cottle’s direct client, my observations are based on his role in a case I was directly involved in. The impact of an attorney’s approach extends beyond their client, particularly in high-conflict family matters where their decisions can significantly influence the process and outcomes for everyone involved.
For those navigating complex legal challenges, I would encourage seeking someone who prioritizes constructive outcomes and fair advocacy. Unfortunately, I did not see these qualities reflected in his work.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that Mr. Cottle has faced disciplinary actions in Oregon, including:
2013 Suspension: Temporarily losing his license to practice law.
2015 Suspension Stayed with Probation: His license was at risk, but the suspension was held while his conduct was monitored.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Dielan “thewhitetiger”
Mark did a great job helping me take care of my divorce.
Very matter of fact and doesn't waste your money on idle chit chat.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
We hired Mark Cottle to help us with our child custody case. He reassured us and sounded like he was going to fight for us and get things taken care. We retained him and could not reach him for weeks. Then after weeks of not being able to contact him- his assistant contacted us saying Mark was sick with Covid. We understood but he didn’t push our court hearings back because of that so instead just didn’t show up to our court hearings as our representative for our case. Because of that we lost by failure to show and lost 30,000$. He used my exact email to email the other sides attorney, didn’t change one word so I might as well have been representing myself. He did absolutely nothing for us at all and was so hard to get in contact with. We had to settlement because he wasn’t fighting for us in anyway or giving any legal advice or helping our situation at all. I do not recommend him at all. Theirs way better family law attorneys who actually care and will fight for you like they’re being payed to do.
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14 Jan, 2024 by Reyna sigurdson
30 Jul, 2022 by Austin hurlburt
06 Oct, 2019 by Darcia olsen
03 Dec, 2024 by Tammy ballard
Does not return calls.
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27 Feb, 2023 by Michael niedzwiadek
Great person! Played sax at the show wouls love to play more:)
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07 Jun, 2018 by Amanda hadsell
29 Aug, 2024 by Richard payne (houseofpayne)
These people have been a terrible expediter and liaison of hunting information and gathering evidence and any real estate or family evaluation. They are like pistol Pete without the flip of the wrist and they just shoot wildly with false accusations that lip can say whatever it wants I believe that’s called slander And there trail is down right the entire reason reforestation became an act and Oregon in the early 60s. These people have no regard for any type situations that might be out of their understanding and instead of asking questions they take money first and assume next they have reached out with only their bundles and bundles and bundles of snail mail and left us scared, Vulnerable, exposed, and afraid. I offer this to the next person that decides they need legal advice from these people just don’t do it consolidated skateboarders across the world will agree. Even Phil Knight, Just Don’t do it! Don’t let these lames into your home, business etc! I am shocked that they are still practicing law!?! Idk smh
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08 Mar, 2024 by Tiffany howes
06 Feb, 2024 by Colleen prock
Patient, professional, and fast yet efficient. Helpful and easy to understand the whole process of estate planning. Guided us with courtesy and care. We highly recommend John Urness.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Marc udink
23 Jul, 2024 by Tricia handy
GARRETT SHARP IS THE WORST JOKE OF AN ATTORNEY I HAVE EVER SEEN IN A COURTROOM. HE DID ABSOLUTELY NOTHING FOR MY 23 YEAR OLDS CASE AND THEN CHARGED HIM OVER 24 THOUSAND DOLLARS. My son makes 30k a year and he was ordered to pay 1900 a month in child support and Garrett said it was my sons fault and then dropped the case. Biggest piece of trash! Don’t go here. Go across the street to Stacy, she’s a bulldog!
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30 May, 2024 by Mike hilb
I used Mike Fitzimons and this Law Firm for personal and business legal work for more than ten years. unfortunately, I used Mike Fitzimons to represent me during my divorce and with the custody of my children. I have learned that Mike and this law firm are incompetent. This is probably the worst child custody firm in the state. Ultimately, I was lucky. I was able to to see my children again, and get to 50% custody despite Mike Fitzimons and this awful law firm. This group is the worst of the worst. Avoid at all costs. These are local politicians pretending to be a law firm. These attorneys are part of the reason why people hate lawyers. Years later Mike’s brother in law was involved in an embezzlement and forgery scheme against me. Of course Mike represented the perpetrators. These guys are super scary people
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04 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
In the months leading up to my trial, her and her Investigator both praised her and called her a so-called pitbull lawyer. She refused to show me what her game plan was, she inherited this case from a $20,000 retainer Lawyer and threw out The case he had built, said she wanted to start fresh, that it was too much to go through? during my trial. She did absolutely nothing to cast doubt on the charges against me did not defend me, refused to listen to me and fight for me. She literally went from seven witnesses down to one and out of hundreds of documents my original lawyer built she brought two documents to Court. after being sentenced and being incarcerated it took two weeks for her to finally get a hold of me and return my call, at which point I asked her to amend my sentence and she filed the wrong motion. That was the last I ever heard from her. If you ask me, it looks like she is working with DA to incriminate men if you get her as a lawyer fire her immediately.
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31 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Linda tried very hard to get me to take a plea deal and even thought I was a different person with the same name. I hardly had any contact with her because she was hard to reach. I knew I was innocent and she assured me if the victim hadn't been subpoenaed she would file for a dismissal. Instead she filed a continuance behind my back and withdrew as my lawyer. I was very upset because I didn't want to continue, I wanted a trial. I felt all she was trying to do was incriminate me and would undermine any evidence I gave her. I suspect she works with the DA and tries to help him get convictions. Don't hire her!
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11 Dec, 2023 by Chris woodruff
Linda Haines is (literally) ranked the lowest, as in most undesirable, CIDC Member Lawyer for all of Clackamas County. If you find yourself to have been ill-fated enough to be charged with a crime and then had Linda Haines appointed to represent you, your best course of action is to fire her immediately (or request she recuse herself) and seek anyone else to represent you aside from her. She does absolutely nothing for her "clients" aside from trying to pressure them into signing court documents that are not drafted in their favor or interest. She's most definitely not a trial attorney, nor a defense attorney, she's hardly even a paralegal that should have retired a decade ago and left this profession long behind. She's more concerned with the rising price of Marlboro Red's and whether or not she's going to make it to her evening watering hole before happy hour ends than she is with any case that fait-fully crosses her desk. And her personal appearance in court is exactly what others have stated on this platform - she'll show up looking like she literally just rolled out of bed, grabbed a non-matching pair of pants and a blazer, put on her beat up old Sketchers tennis shoes, smoked a pack of cigarettes on the drive over, and still manages to always show up at least 20 minutes late, guaranteed. You've been warned!
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23 Feb, 2023 by Carol
He took $2500 of my money and then Gave some personal information out about my company And then told me I would have to go to trial . I was very disappointed, I lost my business
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15 Jun, 2022 by Ken
Andy handled my divorce, as well as some associated issues. He did excellent work all around, getting some false accusations cleared and getting a very fair settlement done in the end while up against a very prominent attorney in Lincoln county. I've referred two people to him since then, and both have had excellent things to say about him and his staff.
I would absolutely go with him again if I had additional troubles, though of course I would prefer to not have to. He will take good care of you.
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12 Mar, 2022 by Shellie
Andrew S. Noonan is a talented, personable,
Reliable attorney. He listens attentively and asks questions to further enable the clients best interests.
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02 Mar, 2024 by Dj murdock
A complete misogynistic jerk. Prefers psychos and domestic abusers as clients.
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27 Nov, 2023 by Caleb beechem
17 Oct, 2023 by Michael shorey
This guy is super lame - won’t return calls and is clowny at best. But what would you expect from someone who represents thieves and liars.
#BirdsofaFeather
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03 Dec, 2024 by Tammy ballard
Does not return calls.
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27 Feb, 2023 by Michael niedzwiadek
Great person! Played sax at the show wouls love to play more:)
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07 Jun, 2018 by Amanda hadsell
13 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Disappears after initial consult. Called every day for two weeks, only option is to leave a message, no return calls. Took a call to the State Bar and a certified demand letter to return my documents. Big waster of time.
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24 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I was the Executive Director for a non profit organization and hired Andrew to provide both legal assistance and consulting. Andrew was not only thorough, accurate and knowledgeable with his legal advice and duties that he performed for us but he was also personable, easy to work with and took an interest in learning about our organization, mission and the nuances of what we were about to help give top notch consultative services. He was responsive, timely, knowledgeable and Andrew performed his work with a high level of integrity and skill. I recommend his services and do so actively whenever I can.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Leanne hiatt
She is wonderful
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07 Oct, 2024 by Jatinderpal singh
03 Aug, 2024 by Mary naegle
We met with Rebecca Whitney-Smith regarding a case. She agreed to accept it and review. Spent quite a bit of money for phone calls to get questions answered, faxing her requested document. Over nighting her other materials. For her to literally. Oh I don't have time.. she wasted months of our time not to mention got paid to do absolutely NOTHING!!! She never even looked at anything that she requested. She wasted oyr time and money. Very disappointed. Do not recommend
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29 Nov, 2023 by Robert
Lucy demonstrated she is not capable of representing those who desire anything other than to throw themselves at the mercy of the court or are simply willing to settle for mediocrity about their representation. Lucy takes on FAR to large a caseload and in turn does not communicate proactively or effectively. She does not answer phone calls, she returns emails and texts when it appears she feels that she has no choice. She does not follow reasonable client requests regarding providing discovery, exhibits, etc. She only takes the time to communicate when she knows she has dropped the ball. Her lack of initiative and professionalism cost me unnecessary time in jail, money, and more importantly frustration. I am VERY calm and reasonable. I understand professionalism and attempt to do the best job one can. I essentially represented myself. In the end, she provided nothing to my situation. She added insult to injury by not following through with disputing Lake Oswego Municipal Court from billing me for her court-appointed attorney services. Short of having a license with the bar I don't know what aptitude she brought to the table. I discourage anyone from placing their future in the counsel of Lucy.
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10 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Felt like her case load was to big and she didn't have the time to work on my case let alone respond to my questions I sent in emails or provide me with my full discovery. I felt like she just wanted me to take a plea bergen and be done with me. She might be a good attorney if you hire her or if she believes in your case.
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25 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
As a first nation I struggle with identity and acceptance of the populations in the Americas in simply making jurisdictions in-laws to over substance substantiate what has happened in history in America does not negate any of the facts on how political framing exist I pray for every first nation in America and I pray that Lucy also heals from stating she had enough hearing about my ancestors for all court-appointed people in the biracial Community we are in a period where our ancestors are and will always be allowed to be discussed.
I had to end the relationship a d engagement due to cultural reasons and hope her clients are happy yet in my 1st nation life, we talk soind act and are different. It was very clear in meeting face to face and speaking as a Native only western nows!
Not in truth of Our boarding schools some acknowledgements must be done by those whom hold those same standards, that have covered up our peoples stories. I have ptsd anxiety and generational trauma. None of my emails were ever responded too, and I am sorry but our Ancestors abuse is handed down And taught. In reality I pray over understanding of this period in a non western conflict.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Lenee
My 3 year old grandson got the crap beat out of him by Johnathan Damian Nolan a few months ago. I attended all the hearings to see that my grandson might get some justice. Every time there has been a court hearing the district attorney has said nothing. The judge has only spoken to Jonathan's attorney each and every time. Yesterday Johnathan plead guilty to 1 count of assault and he's only getting 1 month in jail and 3 years probation. The district attorney has still not said anything. I am very disappointed with him.
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15 Oct, 2023 by Dean loyd
I was treated fairly by the district attorney and came to a fair resolution he was honest fair and decent he has my vote
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17 Jun, 2023 by Eno iii kenneth
Great advice they did give me indeed!
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18 Sep, 2021 by Shay
I hired this firm as soon as I got out of the hospital, they botched my original application by not knowing I had an appointment with SSA doctors to determine my eligibility, in what would have been an easy win. I fired them as they did zero work on my appeal which I did the work on all by myself and won.
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05 Nov, 2020 by Daniel
I hired them years ago and won my ssdi case they charged the max amount for the help $6,000 and I was fine with that. Ssdi reviewed my case and denied me years later and SK&R said they would help but since I already was their client and paid max fees it was as a courtesy. They said signing a new contingency agreement was just standard but I wouldn't be charged.
They did great helped me win again but two years later when I called them asking if they did veteran disability they started asking for their fee. I explained what I was told and they say the guy that helped me no longer works there so I need to pay.
Then they call me saying they will contact ssdi for the fee but will work with me to get it waived so I pay nothing. Well now months later no contact and I'm getting notice from ssdi they are deducting my benefits.
They do decent work but ethics are very questionable over 710.00 fee after I already paid 6000.
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17 Oct, 2018 by Lena
The only reason I gave him 1 star is because there wasnt a choice for zero stars dont go to that whole firm period. They wont keep in touch, get to know you or your issues, wont listen to you and things you fel should be talked about at the hearing. He will sit there and not say a dm thing while you lose. They (he) turns your records in to late so the judge doesnt have to admit them, dont use these people they are ignorant haughty and lame. The judge wrote in my last denial that I had degenerative disk disease, thats how dumb this guy is, I have a TBI not DDD. They also tossed my case around the firm to 5 people mr. kerr was the 6th, unbeknownst to me until after the fact. The only cases he wins are the ones that win theirself.
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12 May, 2021 by Anonymous
John represented me briefly, he never exhibited an understanding of events, never had any insight observations suggestions or strategy beyond a pedestrian approach to preparing for trial which in his own notes he expressed slim chance of success for a projected $125,000 in expenses. He employs a vague and ambiguous communication style designed to increase engagement and billable hours not towards respect or resolution. He adamantly refused to hear any criticism of his work. In my opinion a very poor lawyer indifferent to a clients input.
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02 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I found Tara Costanzo to quite rude and unprofessional when we had are consultation. She was very disrespectful of my mother and youngest sister. Seemed to me she has a problem with power dynamics. She wanted to be clear she was the alpha in the room. She was very short and snarky. In typical lawyer fashion, she first acted very bubbly and accommodating. While later showing her true colors after we had met and her time clock was running. With an attitude like that she should be working at Starbucks NOT at a law firm.
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02 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Not sure whether or not he is currently even licensed to practice, but from my brief experience with him all the character traits mentioned in the previous reviews are still accurate. Overall I would describe him as one who demonstrates typical drug addict behaviors. Beware or better yet stay away. My experience definitely reinforces to me the importance of researching someone before consulting. Wish I had read these reviews sooner. But at least I found them as soon as his suspicious behaviors raised red flags. Thanks Avvo!
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31 Oct, 2019 by Byron
Talked to him before hiring him, seems like a great lawyer with alot of knowledge so I decided to hire him.. after i had paid him alot of money there was less and less communication, eventually he texted me and said he would have to drop my case due to much work with other clients, he was apologetic and said we could meet so he could give me cashiers check to refund back money since he was dropping my case.. day off meeting came and he texted with an excuse why he couldn't meet and reschuled another meeting, day of second meeting was another excuse and reschedule, he never showed up for the third meeting and never returned any of my phone calls after that... I see that he is currently suspend but If that ever gets lifted I don't recommend him I lost roughly $8,000-9,000 with him (all this was about 2 years ago so don't remember exact ammount, just recently thinking about it again and figured I'd atleast leave a reveiw so people don't make the same mistake I did by hiring him)
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02 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Michal as an LSAT tutor as I am a prospective Law Student. I left him a deposit for the classes, tutored with him for some time and then I never heard from him again. He took off with some of my money and did not refund or provide me with additional classes or even an explanation. I did everything to get a hold of him, including sending a certified letter, but it seems he is in the wind or dead. I have contacted the Oregon state bar regarding his behavior. I am very disappointed and even though I am extremely upset about the situation I hope he is not injured or dead. Michael if you see this, you know who I am please contact me and return my money. I work 2 jobs just to pay for tutoring and you took off with my money.
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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.
