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Kienan Duane Christianson, experienced Family Law, Insurance attorney in Burlington, VT with 4 reviews
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39,12
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
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18 Nov, 2019 by Annie
Kienan was my attorney when I came forward about the sexual abuse that I experienced in graduate school. The perpetrator was a faculty member at a nationally acclaimed university who was also teaching at an elite boarding school. Kienan began working with me at the beginning of the #metoo movement, when the process of exposing abusers felt like largely uncharted territory. I had been in contact with other attorneys who prioritized financial gain over my healing process and even threatened to expose my identity when I wasn’t yet ready. In contrast, Kienan approached my case with the highest levels of professionalism and respect. His strong legal acumen, passion for justice, and regard for my healing process as a survivor made me feel safe and confident in an otherwise intimidating situation. Kienan and I worked together over the course of a year and a half, at the pace I needed to go in order to avoid retraumatization. He was always available to answer my questions and offer support. Further, I was greatly aided by his compassionate understanding of the trauma I had experienced as well as his fierce advocacy for bringing healing to survivors and preventing others from being harmed. I highly recommend Kienan Christianson—he helped me reach a place of healing that I hadn’t imagined possible.
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15 Nov, 2019 by Emily
Kienan represented me during a really intense custody disagreement between me and my son's father. A friend of mine who previously worked with Kienan recommended him to me, and I couldn't be more grateful. Kienan was professional, knowledgeable and skillful. Not only is he masterful with his knowledge of the law, his people skills will win over any judge's favor due to his courteousness, graciousness, and humility. My son's father was attempting to win full custody, but thanks to Kienan hard work, attention to detail and experience, I was the one who was granted full custody of my son. On top of Kienan's impressive work ethic, he's simply a pleasure to work with. He was always realnwith me yet respectful. He displayed great deals of empathy for me while I was dealing with this really difficult situation. He was also very respectful of my budget, aware that I was receiving help from family to afford his services, he was transparent with the cost of everything ahead of time and was always willing to discuss the pros and cons with me and my family. I can't express enough appreciation for Kienan, and I would definitely hire Kienan again should I need representation again!
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13 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Kienan is passionate, driven and detail oriented. He fights tirelessly for others and works incredibly hard for his clients. In my case, Kienan was an excellent communicator and explained the process as well as the rational behind his advice making a very painful process feel much less exhausting. I have referred friends to Kienan as well who had similar praise to offer. I would highly recommend Attorney Christianson.
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James R. Haug, experienced Appeals, Insurance attorney in Burlington, VT with 1 reviews
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39,00
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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10 Mar, 2019 by Evan mcmahan
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Kevin John Coyle, experienced Government, Insurance attorney in Burlington, VT with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,00
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4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
1 Reviews
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02 Jul, 2018 by Sarah west
Competent, professional attorneys; beautiful office building with conference rooms and amenities, on-site parking
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Jesse Dayton Crary, experienced Business, Insurance attorney in Burlington, VT with 42 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,81
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4.5/5
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4.5
42 Reviews
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05 Dec, 2024 by Lela mccaffrey
I am so thankful to have found Cindy to help me navigate my divorce. She was very professional and helped me understand the laws. She also wasn't afraid to tell me the truth, even when I didn't want to hear it, so I could anticipate what was coming. I have already recommended her to a friend and will continue to do so. I felt I had a true advocate with me on my divorce journey.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Julia johnson
I don’t know what I would have done without Cindy. It’s a new low to be mentally and physically drained, while also trying to pull evidence and know what my next steps are in a court case, especially never experiencing the judicial system prior. Cindy was this light I just continued following until the case was over, with a result I was content with not to mention. I remember feeling my chest tight, heart racing, but when I looked up in the virtual courtroom, and saw she was there, I felt a wave of calm and knew I would be just fine. I hope to never need her again (respectfully) but if i happen to need an attorney, it will be her.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Monica hampton
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Gary F Karnedy, experienced Government, Insurance attorney in Burlington, VT with 42 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,81
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
42 Reviews
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05 Dec, 2024 by Lela mccaffrey
I am so thankful to have found Cindy to help me navigate my divorce. She was very professional and helped me understand the laws. She also wasn't afraid to tell me the truth, even when I didn't want to hear it, so I could anticipate what was coming. I have already recommended her to a friend and will continue to do so. I felt I had a true advocate with me on my divorce journey.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Julia johnson
I don’t know what I would have done without Cindy. It’s a new low to be mentally and physically drained, while also trying to pull evidence and know what my next steps are in a court case, especially never experiencing the judicial system prior. Cindy was this light I just continued following until the case was over, with a result I was content with not to mention. I remember feeling my chest tight, heart racing, but when I looked up in the virtual courtroom, and saw she was there, I felt a wave of calm and knew I would be just fine. I hope to never need her again (respectfully) but if i happen to need an attorney, it will be her.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Justin n
Cynthia and her team stole my retainer without ever performing a drop of legal work. It's been 8 months and I'm still fighting to get even the "unused" portion of my retainer back. The only legal work her team ever once did was to grossly benefit the opposing party at great financial and emotional cost to myself. Unfortunately after so many months I'm now forced to follow up with the court system against this horrible legal practice. Also worth noting that what she charged thousands and thousands in retainers for was a $140 form anyone can send in and probably should have advised me to do.
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David E. Bond, experienced Civil Rights, Insurance attorney in Burlington, VT with 9 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,26
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4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
9 Reviews
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17 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Despite all of the discrimination and negligence supervision I am experiencing this attorney refused to hear me out and take my case. This is a serious matter and it needs to be addressed or I may take my LIFE because no one has my back
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10 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Bond represented me in a consumer fraud case with a contractor. In the complaint he wrote to initiate the case, he misplaced the emphasis in a number of ways and also left out one crucial fact. When the contractor's lawyer responded with a motion to dismiss the case, this gaping hole played a major role in the judge's decision to dismiss. Mr. Bond then convinced me to appeal the dismissal -- at significant cost to me, of course. The other side then suggested mediation. It was in the mediation process that Mr. Bond demonstrated his most extraordinary incompetence. He started by insisting that we open by asking for an outrageous sum. This undermined our credibility from the outset and put the contractor on the defensive. All through the grueling negotiations, Mr. Bond stayed on the sidelines, basically an empty suit. After many hours, when I was very tired, I made the first move toward compromise, and the other side finally began to budge. At this point, Mr. Bond broke in, took me aside, and tried to convince me to accept their very first, ridiculously low offer! That was when I realized I was on my own. I managed to get thousands of dollars more only because I ignored his advice. The final sum, however, was much less than I needed to make myself whole. From the very beginning, Mr. Bond pulled rank on me as a lawyer and ignored suggestions I made that would have made our case stronger. (He thinks very highly of himself.) He was always in a hurry and never showed an interest in understanding the details of the case, nor was he ever committed to the main and indeed only goal, which was simply to recover enough money to repair the damage that had resulted from the incompetence, deceitfulness, and intransigence of the contractor. (The mediator actually told me that I had been "badly treated.") In retrospect, I believe my main goal never was Mr. Bond's goal. My reading is that it was a slow time for him (during covid), he needed the work, and it didn't matter to him how it worked out in the end: he'd be paid anyway. The standard caricature of a lawyer. How is it that I, who had never participated in mediation, was better at it on my first try than he was after countless similar experiences? I am fully convinced that had he not been in the room and I had handled the negotiations alone, I would have been able to recover enough money to come out even. He hurt that effort. He is a hapless negotiator. And since most such cases go to mediation, this is a crucial shortcoming. You're better not hiring this guy.
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02 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
David is one of the few first-rate litigators in a small state. He was quick to grasp the key issues in our case, and unfailingly accurate in his understanding of how the law should apply - indeed considerably more so than our state court judges. His ability to recall facts is equal to the quality of his legal reasoning. I have rarely made fewer comments or edits on a brief than with David's, in more than three decades of managing preeminent attorneys in complex international litigation. Having seen perhaps a dozen of the state’s litigators in action, I have found David far superior in efficiency, effectiveness and value.
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Shawn T. Tao, experienced Debt Settlement, Insurance attorney in Burlington, VT with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,69
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
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22 Mar, 2022 by Adam
Mr. Tao was hired to represent me for my contested divorce hearing. He failed to file the appropriate documentation with the courts, causing me to have motions of contempt filed against me. He also failed to answer his telephone and email for the two months prior to my hearing. I am now homeless because of his neglect. Please be warned- he is dangerously unreliable. I would have done better to represent myself, as he only caused harm to my case. If requested, I will be happy to share the details and documentation related to his contempt hearing and dismissal.
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10 Apr, 2017 by Adam
I hired Shawn in Spring/Summer of 2016 to handle a landlord dispute in Burlington, VT and he was extremely professional every step of the way. I was well-informed throughout the entire process, and I trusted his expertise every step of the way. His empathy and professionalism made this fairly serious dispute feel in my control and well-handled, and I can't recommend him highly enough.
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Thomas P Simon, experienced Insurance, Personal Injury attorney in Burlington, VT with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,65
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3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
2 Reviews
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09 Dec, 2024 by D ann d
Krystn Perrettine does not return calls. Her letters say, " As always, contact me with any questions? She exudes an "I know it all" attitude and interrupts you when you're talking, assuming you are dumb.
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15 Mar, 2022 by Dana bigue
Tom Simmons is my lawyer a great guy goes the extra distance every time he does not miss a thing a great lawyer who will 100% take care of you the other day he called to see how I was doing like he has done so many times before not only is he my lawyer he actually cares about me you don’t find that anymore with lawyers people who read this will know that. for Tom Simmons 10/10 thank you Tom Simmons for your hard work and your honesty and giving me 100% of your time Sincerely. Dana B
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Paul Andrew Kervick, experienced Business, Insurance attorney in Burlington, VT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Gary F Karnedy, experienced Government, Insurance attorney in Burlington, VT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Nolan Christopher Burkhouse, experienced Insurance, Real Estate attorney in Burlington, VT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Shapleigh Smith Jr, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Burlington, VT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Peter J. McDougall, experienced Business, Insurance attorney in Burlington, VT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Robert G. Cain, experienced Insurance, Litigation attorney in Burlington, VT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Matthew A. Ferrigno, experienced Insurance, Litigation attorney in Burlington, VT with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What an Insurance Lawyer Can Do for You

An insurance lawyer specializes in legal issues related to insurance policies and claims. These lawyers help individuals, businesses, and insurance companies navigate disputes involving insurance coverage, claim denials, bad faith claims, and policy interpretation. Insurance lawyers can represent policyholders who feel they've been unfairly denied coverage, or they can work on behalf of insurance companies to defend against fraudulent or inflated claims.

Whether you're filing a claim, disputing a denial, or dealing with complex coverage issues, an insurance lawyer can provide critical guidance and legal representation to protect your rights and ensure you receive the benefits you're entitled to under your policy.

When Should I Hire an Insurance Lawyer?

Hiring an insurance lawyer is advisable in several situations, particularly when disputes arise over insurance coverage, claim denials, or bad faith actions. Common reasons to hire an insurance lawyer include:

  • Denied insurance claims: If your insurance company denies your claim, a lawyer can help determine whether the denial was justified or if you should challenge the decision.
  • Bad faith insurance practices: If you believe your insurer has acted in bad faith, such as delaying payment or failing to properly investigate your claim, a lawyer can help you pursue legal action.
  • Underpaid claims: If the insurance company has offered less compensation than you believe your claim is worth, a lawyer can negotiate for a higher payout or file a lawsuit.
  • Coverage disputes: When there's ambiguity or disagreement about what your policy covers, a lawyer can provide clarity and advocate for your rights under the policy.
  • Business insurance claims: If you own a business and are dealing with commercial insurance claims (e.g., property damage, liability, or professional indemnity), a lawyer can help ensure your business receives proper coverage.
  • Third-party claims: If you're being sued for liability and your insurance company refuses to defend or indemnify you, an insurance lawyer can help enforce your coverage rights.
  • Appealing long-term disability claims: If your disability insurance claim has been denied, a lawyer can assist in gathering evidence and appealing the decision to get the benefits you deserve.

What Does an Insurance Lawyer Do?

An insurance lawyer provides a wide range of services to assist with insurance-related legal issues. These can include:

  • Reviewing insurance policies: A lawyer can review your insurance policy to ensure you understand your rights and obligations, as well as clarify what coverage is provided.
  • Filing insurance claims: Assisting with the preparation and filing of claims to ensure all necessary documentation is submitted correctly.
  • Challenging claim denials: If your claim has been denied, a lawyer can investigate the reasons for denial and file appeals or lawsuits to challenge the decision.
  • Litigating bad faith claims: Representing clients in bad faith insurance cases, where the insurer fails to act in good faith by unfairly delaying, denying, or underpaying a valid claim.
  • Negotiating settlements: Helping policyholders negotiate settlements with insurance companies to receive fair compensation for claims.
  • Defending against fraudulent claims: Representing insurance companies to defend against false or exaggerated claims filed by policyholders or third parties.
  • Handling disputes over policy language: Interpreting complex insurance policies and resolving disputes between the insured and the insurer regarding coverage limits, exclusions, and conditions.

How Are Insurance Lawyers Paid?

Insurance lawyers typically charge for their services in different ways, depending on the nature of the case and the type of insurance issue involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Contingency fee: For many policyholders disputing claim denials or underpayments, lawyers work on a contingency basis. This means the lawyer only gets paid if they win or settle the case, taking a percentage (usually between 25% and 40%) of the recovered amount.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing legal issues, such as bad faith lawsuits or business insurance disputes, insurance lawyers may charge an hourly rate. This rate varies depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Flat fee: For simpler matters, such as reviewing an insurance policy or helping file a claim, some lawyers charge a flat fee for their services.
  • Retainer: For businesses or clients with ongoing legal needs, an insurance lawyer may require a retainer fee, which is an upfront payment for future services.

It’s important to clarify the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does an Insurance Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an insurance lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer's experience, and the payment structure. General cost estimates include:

  • Contingency fees: If your lawyer works on a contingency fee basis, you won’t pay any fees upfront, but the lawyer will take a percentage (typically 25% to 40%) of any settlement or judgment awarded.
  • Hourly rates: Hourly rates for insurance lawyers generally range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. Complex cases involving bad faith or high-value business claims may require significant hours, leading to higher legal costs.
  • Flat fees: For specific services, such as reviewing an insurance policy, lawyers may charge a flat fee ranging from $500 to $2,500, depending on the complexity of the task.
  • Retainers: Businesses or individuals seeking ongoing insurance legal services may pay a retainer, which can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the lawyer and scope of work.

Make sure to discuss costs and payment structures with your lawyer before proceeding to understand how much the services will cost.

Top Questions to Ask an Insurance Lawyer

Before hiring an insurance lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:

  1. What experience do you have with insurance law?
    Ensure the lawyer has specific experience handling cases involving your type of insurance, whether it’s auto, health, home, or business-related.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer works on contingency, hourly rates, or flat fees, and ask for an estimate of the total cost of your case.
  3. What is your success rate with insurance disputes?
    Ask about the lawyer’s track record in winning or settling cases similar to yours.
  4. What are my chances of success?
    A good lawyer will provide an honest assessment of your case’s strengths and weaknesses and outline the possible outcomes.
  5. How long will the process take?
    Get an estimate of how long it will take to resolve your claim or dispute, as some cases can extend over months or even years.
  6. Will you handle my case personally?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case.

How to Check the Credibility of an Insurance Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable insurance lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:

  • Verify their state bar license: Check with your state bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Review their experience in insurance law: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in insurance law and have experience with cases like yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Search for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s expertise and professionalism.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have dealt with similar insurance issues.
  • Check for industry memberships: Membership in organizations like the American Bar Association’s Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section (TIPS) can indicate the lawyer’s focus on insurance law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with an insurance lawyer, come prepared with the following documents and information:

  • A copy of your insurance policy: Bring the policy related to your claim or dispute so the lawyer can review the coverage details.
  • Any correspondence with the insurance company: Provide copies of letters, emails, or other communications between you and your insurer regarding the claim or denial.
  • Proof of claim and supporting documents: Bring any documentation you have submitted with your claim, including receipts, invoices, photos, medical records, or repair estimates.
  • List of questions: Prepare a list of questions you want to ask about your case, the legal process, and the potential outcomes.
  • Timeline of events: Be ready to provide a clear timeline of the incident that led to the claim and any steps you’ve taken with your insurance company.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can ensure that the lawyer has all the information they need to assess your case and provide the best legal advice.

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