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27 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I had the worst experience with miss La kenya. For someone who has a degree in law, she is indeed ignorant and doesn't know much about law at all. I was disappointed to say the least. Do yourself a favour and pick a different lawyer. Don't waste your money.
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17 Jun, 2015 by Ivory
I contacted LaKenya to assist me regarding my small business. LaKenya made me feel at ease with her knowledge and professionalism. LaKenya was quick to resolve all my questions and had truly helped me. You cannot choose anyone better! She's awesome!
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05 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
After the initial meeting, never saw him again. I was shuffled over to a brand new associate. Mr. C semed overly concerned about his fees, not my case. Overall, not a pleasant experience
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09 Aug, 2024 by Janet
22 Jun, 2024 by Gaby d t
RUN DO NOT HIRE THIS LAWYER!!!
HE WOULD FILE FALSE STATEMENTS INFORMATION!!! HIS LICENSE SHOULD BE TAKEN AWAY!!
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19 Jun, 2024 by Marcia del toro
He is about to get reported to the border school of attorney for filing wrong motions and petition for child custody in the wrong state when there is NO jurisdiction there for the child!!!! Him knowing the child didn’t reside there!!! Unethical and unprofessional!!!HIS LICENSE SHOULD BE TAKEN AWAY!!!
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11 Aug, 2024 by Caleb gilbreath
I would stay far, far away from this office. My wife and I retained Kline and had a horrendous experience. I would describe him as incompetent, uncommunicative, and dishonest.
Without going into painstaking detail of all our grievances, I will say that it was next to impossible to receive any meaningful work or communication from Kline and the office. We actually missed a response deadline with the court in our case because of a supposed “lost email”. We initially paid a retainer to Kline and were told, in writing, that we would be notified when our retainer was exhausted so that we could discuss how to proceed. Instead, we suddenly received an invoice for thousands of dollars, informing us that our retainer had been used up for weeks. When I pointed out the clause in our agreement regarding our retainer, Kline abruptly responded that we should seek new counsel. I would strongly discourage anyone from retaining the services of this office
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11 Aug, 2024 by Caleb
I would stay far, far away from this office. My wife and I retained Kline and had a horrendous experience. I would describe him as incompetent, uncommunicative, and dishonest.
Without going into painstaking detail of all our grievances, I will say that it was next to impossible to receive any meaningful work or communication from Kline and the office. We actually missed a response deadline with the court in our case because of a supposed “lost email”. We initially paid a retainer to Kline and were told, in writing, that we would be notified when our retainer was exhausted so that we could discuss how to proceed. Instead, we suddenly received an invoice for thousands of dollars, informing us that our retainer had been used up for weeks. When I pointed out the clause in our agreement regarding our retainer, Kline abruptly responded that we should seek new counsel. I would strongly discourage anyone from retaining the services of this office
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03 Jan, 2022 by Robert shanley
02 May, 2024 by Viveca ooten
02 Feb, 2024 by Robin rolin
Nobody called me back
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20 Sep, 2023 by Jessie thatcher
17 Jun, 2024 by Jaun baum
Why did Ruby Law skim money from a wonderful Christian family needing work visas? They do everything you asked and were allegedly threatened by Ruby Law. Shame on you. Stealing money for empty promises is not a company TN wants around.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Swarkham hom
Zero transparency.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Tuwanparsa
20 Sep, 2024 by Amanda hawk
Harold Rushton and The Rushton Law Firm were truly amazing to work with and would use them again for any advise or legal issues in the future. Harold was extremely responsive to answering any of my questions, gave wonderful advise and his expertise was invaluable.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy anderson
26 Jul, 2024 by Bianca h.
I have been working with this firm for more than a year now. They have been flexible, courteous, and very communicative and responsive via email. Tara and Stacey have been a great help and provide excellent customer service!
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13 Aug, 2021 by Michelle white
Mr Sheldon was not able to comprehend anything he just asked the same thing over and over like it was the first time he asked the question. He I incapable of doing his job seems to be suffering from dementia or something. Do not use him!!!!!!
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12 Aug, 2021 by Kim hicks
I had a terrible experience there I had to explain the situation at least 10 times and I didn't feel like he understands anything you are saying to him, very incompetent
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12 Aug, 2021 by Walter radford
He seems to be senile and incompetent he forgets conversations and blanks out does not need to be a attorney
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14 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
his Lawyer is what I refer to as a Used Car Sales man. He speaks a good game, but there are no actions behind his words. I hired him, briefly. During that time my case was so mismanaged. I am now trying to correct all the things he said he did on my behalf, but didn't. I just found this site. Had I know about his win loss ratios and lack of ethics, I would not have hired him. It does not surprise me given the way he acted while supposedly working on my case.
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02 Sep, 2024 by River nunly
07 Apr, 2024 by Orlanda anderson
05 Jun, 2023 by Andy davis
13 Jul, 2024 by Hannah gentry
Likes to see families suffer for their own pleasure and is okay with pregnant women being beaten on.
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02 Nov, 2022 by Chief inspector lee
Incompetent excessive
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21 Oct, 2022 by Drew dowdy
The Purge is legal in Putnam Co.
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14 Sep, 2024 by Karma
It was quite scary and hard for a 14-year old trans kid to face their rapist and not cry. The process was long and grueling but getting to meet my lawyer and judge before having to testify in front of a group of random people and to tell what he did to me made it much better. I don't think I could bare to do this ever again but the process was worth it.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason rudd
The feds need to come here asap totally ineffective. How are we fighting crime when they just let these criminals out without facing any consequences. I'm ashamed that I unfortunately live in this hell hole.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Dillon crone
My Rating is Zero!!! This office should be ashamed... It's a No Wonder these Criminals are Running the streets. 18 year old gets caught breaking into cars and gets a $1000 bond... I guarantee you he had his $100 to bond out.... Right back on the street!!! SMH...
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14 Sep, 2024 by Karma
It was quite scary and hard for a 14-year old trans kid to face their rapist and not cry. The process was long and grueling but getting to meet my lawyer and judge before having to testify in front of a group of random people and to tell what he did to me made it much better. I don't think I could bare to do this ever again but the process was worth it.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason rudd
The feds need to come here asap totally ineffective. How are we fighting crime when they just let these criminals out without facing any consequences. I'm ashamed that I unfortunately live in this hell hole.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Dillon crone
My Rating is Zero!!! This office should be ashamed... It's a No Wonder these Criminals are Running the streets. 18 year old gets caught breaking into cars and gets a $1000 bond... I guarantee you he had his $100 to bond out.... Right back on the street!!! SMH...
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14 Sep, 2024 by Karma
It was quite scary and hard for a 14-year old trans kid to face their rapist and not cry. The process was long and grueling but getting to meet my lawyer and judge before having to testify in front of a group of random people and to tell what he did to me made it much better. I don't think I could bare to do this ever again but the process was worth it.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason rudd
The feds need to come here asap totally ineffective. How are we fighting crime when they just let these criminals out without facing any consequences. I'm ashamed that I unfortunately live in this hell hole.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Dillon crone
My Rating is Zero!!! This office should be ashamed... It's a No Wonder these Criminals are Running the streets. 18 year old gets caught breaking into cars and gets a $1000 bond... I guarantee you he had his $100 to bond out.... Right back on the street!!! SMH...
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14 Sep, 2024 by Karma
It was quite scary and hard for a 14-year old trans kid to face their rapist and not cry. The process was long and grueling but getting to meet my lawyer and judge before having to testify in front of a group of random people and to tell what he did to me made it much better. I don't think I could bare to do this ever again but the process was worth it.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Jason rudd
The feds need to come here asap totally ineffective. How are we fighting crime when they just let these criminals out without facing any consequences. I'm ashamed that I unfortunately live in this hell hole.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Dillon crone
My Rating is Zero!!! This office should be ashamed... It's a No Wonder these Criminals are Running the streets. 18 year old gets caught breaking into cars and gets a $1000 bond... I guarantee you he had his $100 to bond out.... Right back on the street!!! SMH...
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14 Sep, 2024 by Karma
It was quite scary and hard for a 14-year old trans kid to face their rapist and not cry. The process was long and grueling but getting to meet my lawyer and judge before having to testify in front of a group of random people and to tell what he did to me made it much better. I don't think I could bare to do this ever again but the process was worth it.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Jason rudd
The feds need to come here asap totally ineffective. How are we fighting crime when they just let these criminals out without facing any consequences. I'm ashamed that I unfortunately live in this hell hole.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Dillon crone
My Rating is Zero!!! This office should be ashamed... It's a No Wonder these Criminals are Running the streets. 18 year old gets caught breaking into cars and gets a $1000 bond... I guarantee you he had his $100 to bond out.... Right back on the street!!! SMH...
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18 Apr, 2023 by Kevin
Aaron Rochelle was assigned to my son by the judge for and underage consumption charge. He did not return any phone calls leading up to the court hearing. My son and his mother both left messages to let him know that my son was in the hospital and would need a continuation. He did not return their calls nor asked the judge for the continuation which resulted in a warrant being served for non appearance and my son being booked into jail. The bail cost $2500 and was totally avoidable if Aaron Rochelle simply cared enough to do his job. His clients may not be rich but they are people.
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25 Jan, 2023 by Jessica
First of all, I was not able to get in touch with him at all. I had to schedule a phone call a month and a half out and when that phone called rolled around it was maybe 5 minutes and that was it. No other contact before my court date. I had no way of getting a hold of him to ask questions. And on the day of my court date apparently there had been some issues with what he said he was going to submit to the court but did he contact me to let me know that? No so I was blindsided I had no time to think about my options, and when I seem flustered at the courthouse he told me I needed to hurry up and decide and stared me down and then when I told him I didn't really understand what my options were that he had just spent all of three and a half minutes explaining, he rolled his eyes and huffed at me. Then after I sort of kind of made a decision he got up and stormed into the courtroom and started filling out paperwork, shoved a piece of paper in front of me to sign and then a minute later I was in front of the judge and I literally had to look at him when the judge was asking me how I was answering the questions cause I didn't know what to say. More eye rolls. More huffing. I'm devastated because now I know that had I looked into it further and had actual representation I could have gotten out of the charge but instead I'm stuck with a year of probation and a charge on my record that's going to severely impact my future employment options in my career field of 20 years. Like the heading says he's absolutely worthless. He should be disbarred. Don't waste your time.
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06 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I called to set up a appointment 2 MONTHS before my court date. Which would have been 1 week and 2 days after he was appointed to me by the judge. The judge said to call a week from the day he was appointed to set up a appointment. But apparently those 2 days I waited (holiday) made it to the point that he got so busy with other clients that he couldn’t meet with me to discuss my case. I have not talked to him one time since he was appointed I have left over 30 messages begging him to give me 2 minutes of his time. Begging him to please call me because I’m going insane about this court case. Begging him to please just call me back. But I guess that’s too much. I don’t believe he should have been paid for my case even if he does show up to court. I haven’t talked to him I don’t even know what he looks like and at this point I have court in the morning at 9 and I haven’t slept in 3 days. I can’t remember the last time I ate anything . I haven’t showered in days. I haven’t been able to work because I am so depressed and scared that I’m almost feeling like the better option will be to skip court and run. This “man” is the real scum of the world and after this is over I’m about to sue the crap out of him because in the contract I received he is required to talk to me atleast once before my court date .
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20 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I gave a 52k retainer, she provided no written agreement despite my requests. It has been over a year now, and she has not even begun to work on my case. She has never returned a call. I learned fast and set up meeting instead. Two days before court I had a meeting with her for 10 minutes, as she was rushing me out. It was very evident she had not even reviewed my file and was very unprepared to defend me.Scary!
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20 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
She will take your money, have you show up for court and wait all day 6 times only to reschedule, then drop you as a client. I wish i read her reviews before i hired her. not to mention she is impossible to contact and will not communicate with you at all. Do not waste your money on this woman.
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24 Jun, 2022 by Mary
I met Cathryn Armistead after seeking counsel regarding matters concerning my mother, who could not represent herself. Ms. Armistead convinced me that I needed a conservatorship on my mother. She claimed that she would assist me with the conservatorship and any matter connected to it once it was obtained. Before hiring Ms. Armistead, her level of communication was high. After being hired and after she was paid, communication almost ceased entirely.
Several months after the conservatorship was granted, I hired Ms. Armistead in an attempt to seek justice for my mother, who had been the victim of neglect in an area nursing home. Once again, Ms. Armistead communicated with me regularly until a retainer was signed for services. After not hearing from her, I reached out via email to ask about a timeline for starting proceedings; I did not receive a response to my email. I then reached out to her office about the matter and was told by her paralegal that she did not know and would speak to Ms. Armistead concerning my question. I never heard back from her office and Ms. Armistead. I reached out again, but still no response.
After repeated attempts via email and phone to contact Ms. Armistead, I reported her to the Board of Professional Responsibility of the Supreme Court of Tennessee. After receiving a copy of the complaint, it was only then that I heard from her by mail. I received a letter terminating our contract because "our relationship had deteriorated" This is not about a "relationship" but business. I understand that it is within an attorney's right to decide not to pursue a case. It is grossly unethical and bad business not to communicate with a client.
I knew Ms. Armistead had her faults in communicating, but given the fact that it was a case of nursing home neglect of a loved one, I thought she would step up. It is inexcusable to keep a client waiting when time is wasted on helping an elderly patient (my mother) in a nursing home. Unfortunately, it appears that Ms. Armistead is only interested in obtaining new business without doing the work she is hired to do and doesn't like being held accountable, given that she terminated our "relationship" after being reported. It says a lot about a person when they are incapable of offering an apology for wasting your time and resources.
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03 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
hired, she failed to support an innocent client, requested my case file information returned- never acknowledged the request. she sent a letter stating investigation of logistics near my residence, Never bothered to meet with me at my home, raised a concern as to the validity of the investigation. Friends and professionals questioned integrity of how the case was managed, -- rather mismanaged.
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22 Feb, 2017 by Joseph
I hired Tom Tabor to handle the case for my divorce and custody dispute and it proved to be one of the biggest mistakes I ever made. He is not truthful, does not act with integrity in the courtroom and failed to stand up for the rights and best interest of his client. He proved overwhelmingly without a shadow of a doubt that his best interest is not justice or his client but solely himself.
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07 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Mrs. Davis did not return phone calls, did not respond to emails, spent most of the time she should have been listening about my case talking about her own personal affairs, she poorly presented my case in court, and even though I presented her with way more than enough evidence to prove my case, she presented it in such a manner that we lost horribly. I wouldn't even hire her for something as simple as notarizing a letter from this point forward.
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20 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
During my initial consultation, the entire staff was very accommodating and helpful, but that was about it. Over the past couple of years, the level of communication has been reduced to responding occasionally to an e-mail. Most of the time, it takes numerous attempts to get someone to respond. Likewise, when there is a response, you can't get an answer of any type. Staff has become rude and I know as much about my case now as I did over 2 years ago.
I understand that there is a tremendous backlog of cases with the VA, but my case was turned down again and it's been waiting in appeals for a year now. When it was turned down the last time, there had been very little action on our end and I had questioned the lack of effort or action before... only to be told that is the way it works and never given any form of real answer. Further research into this matter has yielded the same results. Once you become ensnared into a contract with an attorney, they can place a strangle hold onto your case and your life and there is no recourse available to clients.
In short, be very cautious before signing anything with an attorney... this one or any other ones. Once you do, you are locked in and there is nothing that governs them to ensure that they actively work your case. VA reps and advocates will tell you that you are pretty much screwed and they can't do anything to help. It's quite possible that people could die while waiting on a response or seeing results... and that's just all part of the process. Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen... they all signed up to die for their Country and spent countless years being treated like a number. Our debts have been paid, and it's about time that we are treated like people.
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03 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I had what was supposed to be a free consultation and I ended up having to pay $200.
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01 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I met Jay at the Second Saturday Divorce Workshop. As I consulted with him on the phone, I got the impression that he was not hearing me in regards to our decisions and priorities. My husband and I are very non-contentious, have decided and agreed upon nearly everything, and anticipate a fairly drama-free divorce. I explained this to Jay, but he disregarded or argued with our choices, and seemed to foster drama where there was none. He didn't clearly answer many of the questions that I asked, and when I told him I thought I would have to postpone our first meeting in order to talk about some things with my husband his immediate response was "well I need to get paid!". I did not end up meeting with him or signing a contract.
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12 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Absolute waste of money. This man is a disgrace to the legal profession:
Never responded to any of my (the client's) correspondence to him.
Completely ignored my instructions on when to file motions.
Completely ignored my restrictions on billable activities.
Made harassing telephone calls to my parents threatening them with contempt of court.
Never provided me with any written progress reports.
Logan had no experience in defamation law.
Tried to drag things out as long as possible.
Never filed a motion to dismiss.
Filed papers without my consent.
When you retain Jimmy Logan, he thinks he has a license to bill.
He never did even one thing that would be helpful to me.
Disclosed confidential information to opposing counsel.
Ran up billings as much as possible for activities that had nothing to do with my case.
Very unprofessional appearance.
Dragged out the proceedings as long as possible.
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27 Nov, 2019 by Eileen
Jerry will tell you that he works for you. That’s the first lie. Everything in your case is predicated on how little he will do, not do as he is asked within the law, and take your retainer and get this, want more money to do his job. He refused to acquire evidence that would have cleared my name from the asst DA. With nearly $2000 left of my retainer Jerry basically told me to go home like a nice little girl because if I anger the court with my legal request the court could throw me in jail. He then wanted to charge me $600 when there was nearly two grand on my account which he has not earned.
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30 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
Hired this lawyer on a recommendation, to review a commercial business contract. We had to close on the property within a set time. The seller was in Georgia, the property in Tennessee and the sale was to be governed under Georgia law. He stated he was not brushed up on Georgia law and without informing us, he spent 5 hours reviewing the law of that state (charging $200 an hour) and informing us that he was not licensed in the state of Georgia and told us not to sign. He would not promptly return phone calls or reply to e-mails. I can understand if he had told us to hire another attorney, but he seemed clueless. After returning $200 from the $2500 retainer, we were back to square one. We hired a more competent local lawyer, who completed the work for a quarter the price.
I would never recommend this incompetent lawyer to anyone.
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23 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I needed a lawyer & a neighbor told me about this office. They had some property issues a few years back & said Mr. Culp did a good job for them. So I went to his office and it was a completey different story. He doesn't return calls. If you do get through to him, theres no progress & he makes excuses about being busy & he's going to do something or other, but he doesn't. His office does not look that busy like he's got a million other customers, but for some reason, he won't remember the details of your case. Anytime we actualy had a conversation, it's like I had to start from the beginning and explain every detail again, what he said to me last time etc. I think he's basically a nice guy, but if you need to see him for 10 minutes in his office, he will talk your ear off about about stuff that's got nothing to do with you & it takes forever to get out of there. Save yourself a headache & find someplace that will DO something for you instead of just talking about it.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Does not keep in contact with his clients. When he does he doesn't remember them. Doesn't remember what he told. Doesn't keep notes. Not to mention he is extremely rude by interrupting his clients personal conversation because he assumed something. I would not let any judge appoint him as my attorney! Such a waste of time!
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1.0
1 Reviews
16 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Absolutely horrible. This attorney is incompetent and doesn't bother to sort out the facts. I would not recommend this slime to anyone for any purpose.
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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:
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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.
