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16 Sep, 2024 by Mary davila
First of all I thank God I'm alive, I thank John and Kristen for all your hard work, attention, and honestly. I thank everyone at Ansel and Miller were very nice, friendly and professional, with great communication skills ... Thank you again to all of you!
I love you guys forever!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Marge
I had the pleasure to have Don as my attorney. He was so communicative so kind and resolve my case with more than I expected. Don is simply amazing ! He will make sure you get a hefty settlement at the end of your settlement. He will fight till the end. What more can you ask for from an attorney. Diane was also extremely nice and also make sure I knew what was going on, and always answered my calls and questions. Thank you Diane, and I can’t leave without out saying thank you to Kristin who also communicated with me and answered all my questions. The staff here is professional, kind, and very attentive. Thank you again to all of you. I am grateful I found your office.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Merline powell
I thank you Ansel & milller , I appreciate each and everyone who handles my paperwork n makes my lawsuit a success it's the best law firm in town they work hard and look out for clients to make sure they get the most of what's coming i was very happy to have them working on my behalf,may they continue to do great work,thanks again ,Mp
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26 Aug, 2024 by Jessica orne
Recently used Mark for my accident/injury case and his office is the best. From day one he had sure I was in the loop on what was going to happen and the steps. When my settlement came, I left his office with a smile on my face. If ever I’m in another accident(god forbid)…. he’ll be my first call.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Angela barias
When I my son had the accident I was looking not just for a Law firm but for an attorney I could speak and would take care of my son's case in a personalize way. If you are like me and prefer to have a more personalized service from a professional in the Accidental Law, Mark Schiffrin, P.A. is the right person to go to. Him and his team are relatable human beings. You can see they are extremely experience and they make you feel like family. Reliable and easy to access. A Law Firm you can trust! I will be forever thankful and appreciative of their service and professional work!
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24 Jun, 2024 by Alexi castellon
The best of the best. -Alexi
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13 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I consulted with Mr. Jessup, very worried about a loved one's case. He assured me multiple times that we were likely to prevail on our own. While he clearly knew his stuff, Mr. Jessup explained the issues and his opinion very effortlessly and clearly. He was kind and set my mind at ease...and he was also right! We will not forget his kindness.
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04 Feb, 2020 by Jennifer
My case isn't resolved yet, but I feel I can rate Mr. Steve Jessup based on his performance as my attorney thus far. He is an intelligent, competent attorney in the area of disability and benefits laws. I like that he's honest and aggressive in managing my case. No other attorneys I consulted showed a fraction of his passion and work ethic. He promptly returns messages and communicates with me regularly. His legal and practical advice has been sound. His staff is also courteous, prompt and professional. I am grateful to have retained him for my case and feel that if anyone can win my case it's him. Even if I don't ultimately win, I feel as though he will have tried his best and that he has my back in the fight. Doubt you will find a better attorney than Steve Jessup.
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02 Oct, 2019 by Sherry
When Mr Jessup got involved in my case against Lincoln, things turned around dramatically! The former attorney had accomplished nothing in well over a year. Once he took over the case, we were settled in less than 3 months. He worked very hard to get the best settlement and seemed genuine and sincere in his job and looking out for my best interest. I would definitely recommend him.
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03 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I am so grateful to Rachel Alters and her staff for helping me with my uncle's claim! She was amazing. This was a very difficult case, because my uncle was mentally disabled. He had failed to immediately make a claim, because he was too disabled to even do the simplest of tasks. As soon as I found out about my uncle's disability policy, I called several attorneys. They were hesitant to work with my uncle, because of the extensive work involved with backdating his claim. I then called Dell and Schaefer and it was one of the best decisions that I have ever made. They patched me through to Rachel Alters and the rest is history.
She worked diligently to backdate my uncle's claim and to secure his rights to future disability payments. We still have a long road ahead of us with regards to my uncle's disability, but I am so grateful to her for securing his right to disability payments. We will be able to use this money to make sure that he gets the health care that he needs.
Disability insurance is a complex business. As an attorney myself, I can tell you that when it comes to disability insurance, you really need somebody in your corner to make sure that your rights are protected. There is nobody that I would rather have in my corner than Rachel Alters.
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16 Aug, 2016 by Marie
Rachel Alters always had time to answer my questions. She is also very understanding and organized. Rachel and her associates met my expectations and more. They filed my claim for me and were very meticulous and detailed with all documentation needed to file my claim.
Results were fast and positive. I didn’t have to worry about anything. They are the best and know insurance companies very well!
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11 Apr, 2016 by Lisa moon
I came to Dell and Schaefer after an attorney firm in Maryland decided in August they could not win my case and dropped me, with my appeal for Long Term Disability due in mid October. I contacted Dell and Schaefer in a panic from an ad I found on the Internet, I got a call very quickly, we talked about my case and at that time I was informed that Rachel Alters would be handling my case, I got a phone call from Rachel, she made me feel at ease right away, and asked me to send all my medical information I had to the firm. Rachel explained to me it normally takes 4-6 months to do an appeal, but Rachel assured me she would do her very best to win with the limited time we had remaining to submit an appeal. Rachel worked very hard, we had many very long phone calls and emails, even though I have never met Rachel face to face I feel she is part of the family. I got a call from Rachel the beginning of December letting me know we won the case and that Aetna would be reinstating my benefits back to April when they had stopped benefits. I had just came home from Johns Hopkins Hospital from back surgery, and it was Christmas time, what a special feeling that phone call bought. There is nothing more I could ask for. Winning an appeal for LTD would not have been possible with out Attorney Rachel Alters and legal Assistant Kathleen Bordes and the staff at Dell & Schaefer.
Why would you recommend Attorneys Dell & Schaefer?
I would recommend Rachel Alters to anyone who is fighting to get there LTD. Rachel, was the person on the other end of the phone who listened to my concerns and my feelings. Rachel listened and help me to understand that this is why she was there, she would work hard to get my Long Term Disability reinstated, which Aetna, stopped after twenty four months.
What could we do to improve?
The company is doing a Great Job. Special thanks to Rachel Alter and Kathleen Bordes who are great.
Lisa M.
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02 Nov, 2018 by Fernando
It was a very difficult and painful situation and Carlos Cabrera facilitated the process and made it easier with his knowledge and professional demeanor.
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28 Jan, 2015 by Maria
Yo tuve un accidente y la atencion de Carlos D Cabrera fue exelente en todos los aspectos es un abogado muy eficiente muy dedicado en el caso y responsable yo no tengo queja de el al contrario estoy muy satisfecha de su empeno en mi caso yo lo recomiendo al 100 por ciento .
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22 Jul, 2016 by Leslie
Marc Ben-Ezra of Florida Professional Law Group recently helped me with a complicated and disturbing contracts issue. I selected Marc because of his accomplishments in working with large national companies combined with his real estate expertise and his success at helping clients so that they are “NOT” taken advantage of by insurance companies.
It was a wise decision. Marc is an aggressive, experienced and brilliant attorney who knows how to solve problems. His real estate and insurance background helped to get to the bottom of my issue to come up with practical solutions. He’s tough and does not take “NO” for an answer! Yet, he’s also accessible, easy to deal with and kept me updated on progress. I highly recommend Marc and his firm, Florida Professional Law Group to others who may need assistance.
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21 Jun, 2016 by Sheryl
When I filed a homeowner’s insurance claim, the insurance company accepted responsibility. It also invoked its right to repair so that the insurer could hire its own contractors whom I didn’t know. That’s when the problems really began. After four months of delays the insurance company’s engineer finally provided the report and plans necessary for a permit. After more delays, the insurance company agreed to just pay a lump sum to settle the claim since it had done such a poor job of handling it. Before paying they demanded that I sign a release. I was uncomfortable so I asked Marc Ben Ezra of Florida Professional Law Group to review the release.
Marc immediately told me there were numerous problems with the release and advised me not to sign. He also asked me to send him the insurance company’s estimate of the claim. He instantly noted numerous items that the estimate either omitted or significantly underestimated. Marc vigorously and professionally explained the problems to the insurer and contested the estimate. His work exceeded all of my expectations.
Marc’s work nearly quadrupled the payout of the claim. He also dealt honestly with the insurance company. In one instance, he overestimated the cost of baseboard. When he realized the error, he immediately informed the insurance company. The insurance company knew he was tough and credible and that his firm would be able to fight them in court if I was not treated fairly. I highly recommend Marc Ben Ezra and Florida Professional Law Group if you need help with an insurance claim. His honest, professional nature will surely make you glad that you did.
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14 Nov, 2014 by @rt
Mindy Chmielarz is the best disability lawyer out there. When you Google Disability Claims or Unum lawyers, what comes up is an avalanche of lawyers firms consultants paid bloggers and just about everything you don't want to read especially when the insurance carrier they are all warning you about is administrating your short term disability and long term disability plan.
I don't know how I stumbled upon her international law firm, DI Law Group but I am sure glad I did. Unlike all the other attorneys who basically painted Unum to be the enemy who will deny your claim at any cost, repeatedly harass your doctors for the same information not to mention leave you penniless, Mindy did no such thing.
In fact there were a lot of things that Mindy did very differently that NO other lawyer did. Atleast not without asking for payment first. As I briefed her about my own policy which was about to change definitions from own occupation to any occupation she listened. She even took the time to review all my documents and letters and even answered my questions for free.
To say I was shocked is an understatement. But one thing about her stood out. She never once mentioned one negative thing about Unum. She wasn't trying to scare me into retaining her. By no means was she an alarmist. I wish there were more honest lawyers like her out there. Maybe then the term honest lawyer wouldn't be the oxymoron it is today.
I remember her saying well in my twenty plus years, I have handled thousands of claims and I have never seen Unum do...that, that or even that. But if they did, they would have a major lawsuit on their hands, in the papers and on the evening news to worry about.
So that got me googling again only to learn that she has went head to head with the best of them even on the Today Show advocating for her clients. But aside from advocating, she also had a proven success record winning them favorable approvals and decisions. And like her Hartford disability Insurance client that she represented on the Today Show and because of her unwaning persistence in helping me obtain all my medical, vocational reports and documentation from the Social Security Administration, I, too, received word from Unum that I was approved for continuing benefits under Erisa governed any occupation review.
While there isn't anything I would like more but to get back to the old me flare-free and pain-free me, I thank my lucky stars that I was able to find Mindy Chmielarz because if not for zealous representation, I would have lost the only thing I had left, the roof over my head.
Now I have one less thing to worry about until the next review but fortunately Mindy is not the kind of lawyer that is out for my kitchen sink and worked with me so that I would be able to afford her fees as she continues to manage my claim.
Thank you Mindy for painting me a picture of Unum that was drastically different. For when all was said and done and faxed, you accomplished everything you sought out to do. You definitely do care. Thank you for always treating me with respect. Most of all, thank you for not taking advantage of my vulnerability and disability. Yet most of all, for helping me stay alive even as my disability continues to debilitate more and more with each passing day.
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03 Oct, 2019 by Libby
My lawyer Mr. Schatzman and his team not only exceeded my expectation their customer service was remarkable. In less than 1.5 years they resolved my claim in a pain free manner as they walked me through the technology that minimized or nullified a face to face meeting to resolve my hurricane Irma roof claim previously denied.
I highly recommend him for any insurance claim issues.
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12 Nov, 2015 by James
Attorney Juan Escar represented my wife and me in a civil case. Throughout the entire process he kept us well informed and prepared us well for the mediation session in which the case was settled. I recommend him highly.
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18 Sep, 2013 by Eileen
Attny Blacksten is fantastic - his performance and standard of integrity are beyond expectation. I was very pleased with the way he kept on top of paperwork/claim. The settlement we received was beyond anything we expected. He literally made a huge difference in our lifestyle and the stress level was relieved by his expert performance. I would recommend him highly to everyone!
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23 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
He was referred by a friend, consulted him for some questions I had. Answered them all, on the phone, very professional, no pressure for fees or retainer. He had better answers than my own lawyer. I decided to switch and retain him instead. Best decision.
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16 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Chad Klosky was on top of my case from the minute that I hired him. He was professional and very caring, attributes that I don't always find in attorneys.
I would highly recommend him for his diligence and attentiveness.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Brandon seesahai
I had two open claims with my house insurance company, Typ Tap. The first was a Hurricane Ian claim that dealt with roof damage and interior water damage inside my bedroom wall. Tip tap denied the first claim and said all damages were from normal wear and tear (of course they would say that). My public adjuster (Richard Mosely from Ask an Adjuster) recommended I consult with Attorney Scott Koltzman. Months later, I opened a second claim because of a hailstorm we had in Brevard County that caused further damage to my roof. Typ Tap finally opened covered for the roof, but did not provide enough payment. Attorney Scott got involved with my second claim as well.
House insurance companies don’t care about homeowners that are paying their high premiums every year. If you honestly have damage to your home, then your insurance company will do whatever it takes to not pay you. I highly recommend an attorney’s office like Scott Koltzmann to fight for you, even if it takes about a year of waiting. I want to emphasize that Attorney Scott Koltzmann does care about his clients and will ensure that he does everything he can to settle your claim. There have been multiple times where Scott has called to talk to me about my case outside of his working hours. He has spoken to me on the phone while he is sitting down on the bleachers watching his son play soccer. He doesn’t have to talk to his clients after work hours and even during his family time, but he does because he knows the “insured” are poorly treated by insurance companies.
After about a year, Attorney Scott worked his magic and he was able to get the insurance company to provide a global settlement with enough payment to satisfy both open claims. Attorney Scott actually accomplished a settlement that was over our requested and expected amount. I was completely surprised. Furthermore, I will never understand why insurance companies won’t provide the appropriate payment for the requested claims in the first place because they end up paying way more money if a lawyer gets involved. There are a lot of bad lawyers out there that do their work for money and don’t care about their clients. They think of their clients as a number, but Attorney Scott is different.
I also don’t want to forget about the Director of Business Development, Dina Monaco, because she was always there to answer the phone, talk to me about my claim, and anything regarding the signed documentation. Dina is always there to interface with Attorney Scott to get updates on my claim and to address my various concerns. Dina is an extremely down to earth person and will assure you that your case is being worked. These cases can run slow because the opposing party (insurance company) wants to do everything in their power for you to give up on your claim. Dina and Scott understand this and are there to help you!
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26 Jan, 2024 by Wendy dremann
Scott and firm were there for us when we needed them most after hurricane Ian! Scott personally came out and assessed multiple properties that we own that had damage and kept up with the process along the way. Scott is a very personable, honest individual whom we trust! It is a slow process things do take time, but at the end of the day he came through for us, and we did better than we even thought we could!! I definitely would use their firm again in the future. Thank you Klotzman law firm job well done😊🤗✅
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19 Jan, 2024 by Reza khadiri
I was very impressed with the attention, care, and professionalism I received from Scott Klotzman and his team. All of my questions and concerns were addressed from the very beginning and I was updated in a timely manner about all the proceedings and expected outcomes. They really fought for me and were able to settle my case for much more than I expected, and their fees were very reasonable and transparent. A+. I am truly grateful 🙏🏻
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
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11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Jean papa papa
Very grateful expérience, excelent..
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Sofia spiess
Richard's services surpassed all expectations helping us on the closing of a real estate transaction. Expert advice and fast reply in all communications. He worked with the counterpart team in
a professional manner to result in a smooth transaction. Thank you Richard!
Read more
11 Mar, 2024 by Sal speziale
I would use Richard again. Did everything as expected. professional and really did look out for my interest. He explained everything and kept me informed throughout the process.
Read more
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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:
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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. -
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. -
What is your success rate with insurance disputes?
Ask about the lawyer’s track record in winning or settling cases similar to yours. -
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. -
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. -
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.
