Lawyers map
>1.0k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
24 Jul, 2024 by Aaron judzewitsch
If you can't get Jo Ann, Blair is your next pick. Even though she couldn't figure it out she was also in the wrong jurisdiction. Blair was the opposing counsel. She also had the same tendencies where they don't care to take dads away who haven't done nearly as bad as other dads. This firm is NOT for dads. Though they are bulldogs. You may be able to get them to fight for you. Now if you're a woman, you'll get what you want in court with this firm. Blair gets 2 stars because Jo Ann got 3. It's half personal and professional.
Read more
29 May, 2024 by Chelsey weaver
Blair was fantastic. She made our dreams come true. She's kind, down to earth but stern and GETS IT DONE. I've been through a couple other lawyers prior and she blew them out of the water. Highly recommend.
Read more
21 Mar, 2024 by Larry mcleod
I will forever be grateful for Knoxville Family Law! They helped me get custody of my kids, and my ex’s lies were exposed. Thank you for all of your hard work and belief in the father.
Read more
07 Jun, 2024 by Daniel patru
Andrew Harrison gave us several options that we had not known about. With his help, we ended up with a simpler, better solution that saved us a lot of money.
Read more
05 Feb, 2024 by Charles archer
Never return calls
Read more
07 Dec, 2023 by Jessica hildebrand
07 Jun, 2024 by Daniel patru
Andrew Harrison gave us several options that we had not known about. With his help, we ended up with a simpler, better solution that saved us a lot of money.
Read more
05 Feb, 2024 by Charles archer
Never return calls
Read more
07 Dec, 2023 by Jessica hildebrand
10 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
My ex and I split up and I tried to work out things and be amicable, but you know some people everything fight. That's what this was a fight. Unlike the 2 other reviews for me, John was a bulldog. He made sure I got the agreement I wanted and nothing that I did not. He kept me informed, emailed me consistently, and scheduled appointments around my schedule. Then when my ex refused to pay child support he fought in court to ensure I did. After the judge revoked his visitation I was sued by his parents for grandparents rights. I was angry and of course sad because I felt wronged by his family. After fighting that John was honest with me that we were going to win, but did I want that, for my child? Did I want my bitterness to impact his life? Those aren't his words of course they're mine, but he made me realize that my inlaws weren't the problem, my ex was and they did kick him out of their house when they found out he was using which was my issue all along. So I called my mother-in-law, we cried, and we worked it out. Most lawyers may not have been so blunt, but it saved my relationship with them. Although my ex is not around I am still close to my inlaws, even since I've remarried. He was on top of it for me and I'd hire him again if the need arose.
Read more
07 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired John to assist in establish a parenting plan. His knowledge was somewhat good but when it actually came time for trial it seemed as if he was not prepared for the case. Also in numerous attempts to contact him via email and phone calls to ask questions pertaining to the judgement they went unanswered.
Read more
09 Dec, 2013 by Kathryn
Good legal mind good legal strategies but awful manners. He is very sarcastic and has an odd sense of humor. He told two other attorneys what we spoke about which I found odd since he is a grown man and I am a housewife. I guess gossip is gossip. He has a real smartmouth on him but he knows his stuff when it comes to the law.
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Ls f
Great advice and guidance on a tough situation I’m dealing with! Thank you !
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Christie plum
I had the absolute worst experience with David Waldrop as my divorce attorney. IF YOU ARE A WOMAN GOING THROUGH A DIVORCE, PLEASE DO NOT USE THIS ATTORNEY. He charged me over $6,000 only to get me and my 11-year-old son kicked out of our house just three weeks before the end of the school year.
First off, it took him forever to file anything, just like another review stated. When he finally did, my mom drove nine hours to come with me to court, and David called me 20 minutes before the hearing to say the courts messed up and didn’t put us on the docket. I later found out from my husband that David had actually forgotten to file anything. To make matters worse, he then charged me an additional fee to refile what he had messed up and failed to file in the first place. Meanwhile, my husband was torturing me and my son by stealing his game system, my cell phone, and locking us out of the house. David charged me for every single text and call, accomplishing absolutely nothing but getting everything taken from us.
I had to fight for my husband to even let me and my son take our personal items. Free legal services reviewed everything and confirmed that I was screwed over big time. I had to quit my job and move to another state because David told me that, due to proof of my husband’s physical abuse, Judge Lundy in DeSoto County said we couldn’t stay in the same home. David told me that Judge Lundy said whoever filed for divorce was the person he was forcing to leave the marital residence. Since I was the one who was abused, I was the one who filed. I told David that didn’t make any sense—why would the judge put me and my minor child, who has no family here and catches the bus at the house, out all because I was abused and filed for divorce? He basically told me he didn’t know, the judge was crazy, and that if I didn’t agree to sign the paper, the judge would force me out and it would be more humiliating and affect future cases. David, who was friends with my husband’s attorney, pressured me into signing an agreement giving my husband the home, leaving my son and me homeless.
The first document David gave me said no one was allowed to move into the home, but the second document had that part removed. When I asked about it, he dismissed my concerns and told me to sign it. Now, my husband’s new girlfriend is living in my house.
David Waldrop does not care about women, especially single moms. I don’t believe the judge even said what David claimed; I think he colluded with his attorney buddy to get me out of the house. I filed for exclusive use of the home, and hiring David ruined my life. When I told him it seemed like he was working for my husband, he dropped me as a client. I still owe him $2,700, and despite begging to make payments, he sent me a demand letter to pay within five days or face court.
My first divorce attorney, George in Southaven, was great and got me everything I asked for for $1,000. David Waldrop, however, has no soul and will drain you of every dollar while helping your husband. I am 38 and have never left a review before, but this experience was so horrific that I had to warn others. Avoid this attorney at all costs.
PLEASE NOTICE DAVID’s response to the last single mom’s post in the picture below at the bottom. He called up one of his male clients to give him a fake review in exchange for money off his bill.
Read more
20 Dec, 2023 by Jessica cannon
Mr. Waldrop & his staff were very friendly, prompt, & explained everything in detail to our family throughout our estate planning process. I would recommend his firm to anyone!
Read more
16 Feb, 2023 by Joyce crawford
24 Sep, 2022 by Nicole belle
I reached out to this law firm regarding a situation I was dealing with. I never heard back from anyone. I would not recommend them.
Read more
13 Jun, 2021 by Chase hicks
👍
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Heath mcmahon
I received a letter from Dinkelspiel Rasmussen & Mink
regarding outstanding HOA dues, which I was completely unaware of and apparently went to collection. I politely reached out to the staff to get more information and figure out how to pay to resolve this issue. Unfortunately, they refused to provide any contact details or assistance, and were rude and unprofessional. I would love to pay any outstanding dues but it is extremely frustrating and unreasonable to own property in an HOA and not have clear access to the information needed to resolve issues like this.
The staff I spoke with were unhelpful, unprofessional, and, in one instance, even hung up on me. I am disappointed by the lack of transparency and customer service, and I am left with no solution or guidance on how to settle this matter. Clear communication and professionalism is essential, and unfortunately, I have not experienced that from this company nor their staff.
Read more
15 Mar, 2024 by K s
Most incompetent law firm I have ever dealt with. Cannot even get my address correct after notifying them of their error. If they cannot even get an address correct what else are they missing?
Also discrepancies in letters I was sent. Very unprofessional. Won’t be recommending them to anyone and hope they hire more competent staff. Messy messy messy! 👎🏻👎🏻
Read more
06 Mar, 2024 by Scott pearce
01 Oct, 2024 by Jennifer crisp
I WOULDNT ADVISE ANYONE USING HIM HE NEVER KNEW WHAT WAS GOING ON WITH MY SISTER HE DRUG HER THRU THE MUD 5000 DOLLARS DOWN THE DRAIN
Read more
26 Jun, 2024 by Tiffany wilber
Helped me with my divorce, he was quick and efficient! :)
Read more
05 Jun, 2024 by Aisha mann
08 Jan, 2024 by Olivia christopher
09 Jan, 2023 by Dawn harris
Been calling for 2 months no return call
Read more
27 Oct, 2022 by Tiffiny martin
02 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
She is only there for political reason. It is sad to know she choose what looks good to her instead of doing what’s right. To be honest most of our country has become that way. To many folks care about more about what they look like instead of just doing what’s right. There is only one judge in this world and we all have to answer to him. So I will pray for you.
Read more
25 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Judge olita failed to be fair and impartial. She held the one side accountable for a violation of an order. How ever very shortly after the other party had been in contempt many times and she through it all out with out taking the evidence in to account. I believe this judge is done being on the bench and needs and thorough examination on values in the judiciary system.
Read more
24 Jul, 2023 by Bill
In 20220 my divorce was finalized. Because of Katherine Olita my ex-wife was granted full custody. I had proof of my ex's then-husband hospitalizing my children multiple times, evidence of my ex drinking and using drugs in front of my children, and my ex-wife leaving the infant children home alone to go sleep with other men. She knew my ex-wife because at the time she was employed at Montgomery County Sheriffs' office. Because of this, she would not allow me to speak, only my ex-wife. My ex-wife alleged, with absolutely no evidence, that I killed a dog, and Olita wrote "The court finds this detrimental to the children" again with absolutely no evidence. Because Olita granted my ex-wife full custody, my children had to witness her trying to kill her husband with their baseball bat. The witnessed their mom go to jail. They have also been moved around four times with their mom and are now currently moving again. Katherine Olita acts as if she cares so much about family law, and adoptions but she has absolutely no problem ripping families apart and permanently causing trauma to small children, just to benefit a friend. The best part of all this is that my ex-wife tried to get an order of protection against me to prevent me from seeing my daughter prior to deployment. Judge Olita would have been the judge but as soon as she saw all the charges my ex-wife had (assault, and custodial interference) she recused herself because she realized she made a bad choice and did not want her name on it.
Read more
22 Feb, 2018 by Lee
I went to Bill with a pretty bad contract problem that I had been trying to get fixed for several years. Bill really listened to everything I said, and then really worked hard on it. He was able to work it out in just the way I had hoped. I will definitely use him again when I need a good lawyer!
Read more
12 Sep, 2017 by Scott
I recently had the pleasure of trying a case with Bill and I cannot say enough about his effort and preparation, He truly did a great job!
Read more
16 Jun, 2016 by Tom
I hired Knoxvegas law and Attorney Bill Taylor to handle a very difficult child support case for me. For more than 3 years I have had money taken for child support by both TN and VA (where my ex lives). Although I have had custody of my daughter for more than 3 years, VA continued to intercept my taxes and TN kept trying to hold me in contempt for not paying and being in arrearage. Finally, yesterday.....Attorney Taylor showed the judge how I have overpaid child support owed and finally got it settled. The time and effort he put into my case got me the outcome I deserved. He is a great lawyer in my opinion.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Ericka black
The call goes straight to telemarketers for Life Alert,
Please check your number.
Read more
29 Feb, 2024 by Taylor berry
Called 5 times to no avail, can not leave a message, the number from google also brings you to a spam call about life alert. This is pitiful
Read more
26 Oct, 2023 by Ana maldonado
06 Nov, 2018 by Lonnie
Great attorney. She was very professional and was understanding to my needs and concerns. Even with her heavy case load she kept me in the loop on the status of my case which was greatly appreciated. I would highly recommend Ms. Bragg to others that need a professional attorney to handle there case.
Read more
14 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Emily Bragg handled my workers compensation case. When you go to a prominent law firm, you expect the best. I guess my case wasn't worth enough to get the best. I spoke with a couple other attorneys to find out all of the things I should have found out from MY attorney. I should have known I had other options. I should have had a second medical opinion as a part of my options. She told me that I should take the offer now and if my injury got worse we could go back to the table and renegotiate. That could not have been further from the truth. In fact, I did get worse and ended up having surgery. Because I took the settlement, that MY attorney told me had my best interest in mind, I later found out that not only will I not receive any money while I am off work, I can not file for short nor long term disability. Attorney Emily Bragg didn't care about me nor my case and the fact that I am a working man trying to take care of a family. Because I wasn't a million dollar case, I feel I was just holding another place in the revolving door of her practice. She was extremely difficult to get in contact with. Virtually no communication until the other party was ready to discuss the settlement. She didn't discuss anything with me other than why she thought I should take it. She told me it was in my best interest. It almost feels like she was more for the opposing side than my side. Yes, MY attorney did not have my back. I recommend that you weigh your options before choosing this attorney.
Read more
30 May, 2018 by Gale
After discussing my case with two other attorneys, a friend suggested that I contact Ben Dean. I met with him in April for well over an hour and unlike the othe attorneys I had talked with, he took his time and not one time mentioned me paying him. I called him the next day to make an appointment and his assistant was very helpful and kind. She worked me in as soon as she could and was very accommodating to my work schedule. Not only was Ben a very nice person, he represented me.very well and his fee was more than fair. If I ever need an attorney again, it will be Ben Dean that I contact. Thank you.
Read more
21 Dec, 2017 by Quinton
I paid in full and he quit!
I feel like I got railroaded in my divorce with him being my lawyer please find you someone else with good reviews talks better about their lawyers!
Read more
16 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
We sat in his parking lot from 11-3. He never even called us. He told us to meet him at 11. I had to call him multiple times just to set up this appointment that he didn't show up to.
Read more
18 Oct, 2024 by Lynn morgan
Excellent referral and very quick response.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Ben edwards
Only giving one Star because I'm really just using this to try and get ahold of someone. Everytime I call it says my call can not be completed. Someone said y'all help with local tyrants. I need that help. Please contact me.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Knox foodie
Attorneys are who made it so that it is so incredibly difficult to represent yourself or sue anyone else and so exceptionally expensive to obtain an attorney, creating defined lines between the Capital and Districts.
Read more
21 Aug, 2023 by Ceemuney 8
20 Aug, 2023 by Jshon clark
19 Aug, 2023 by Brianna forbes
Worst of the worst.
Read more
07 Oct, 2023 by Mark
My wife and I engaged Steve Huret for a property dispute. He was recommended by his father-in-law, an attorney that we had high respect for. We paid $975 for the initial consultation with Mr. Huret. We were charged even for time spent going through reams of paper concerning liability protection for Mr. Huret. At that initial visit, we had the distinct impression that Mr. Huret's focus was on the money and not on helping us. Mr. Huret then asked for another $1000 check for a retainer, and he agreed to hold the $1000 check until he heard from us. We then asked him to let us try to resolve the dispute without incurring more legal fees since it was getting expensive at this point.
We were unsuccessful in resolving the property dispute on our own and so contacted “our attorney”, Steve Huret. Mr. Huret replied that he had taken on some other clients and was planning on doing some traveling. He said that since he had not deposited the thousand-dollar check that we wrote him, he felt under no obligation to represent us and declined to help us. So, sadly, after spending hours in his office and leaving $975 poorer, we were left to begin again the search for another attorney to help us. We felt "kicked to the curb" without even recommendations of another attorney. We received nothing of value for the time and money spent to Mr. Huret.
Read more
18 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Do not use this attorney. Didn’t give feedback for what he charged us, I feel like we were completely taken advantage. He seemed very friendly but obviously a crook. Use someone that will fight harder for you and not just take your money like Mr. Huret
Read more
25 Sep, 2020 by Michael
Couldn’t get a hold of him. Wouldn’t call back for weeks and a few times over a month. Lied about what was being done. Said he had sent out certified letters to defendants and said he had claims for me to review and he never filed any claims. Quit contacting me completely and was paid for services. Couldn’t imagine a worse attorney.
Read more
05 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
A very complicated case where the lead attorney quit, and the case landed in Ryan’s lap. He did not consult with witnesses or anyone close to the situation. He took a multi million dollar lawsuit and settled for very little. Arrogance and incompetence is a bad combination. Worst of all justice was not served.
Read more
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.
Read more
16 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
This guy will sue you, tell you to call to resolve, wont answer, then have the sheriff subpoena you. Guess that is why we have our day in court.
Read more
19 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Lost my case and from my point of view due to NOT knowing what was in my medical records! He knows social security laws well because he used to work for them, and now I think he still does!! I am having to go through this all over again because of his inability and negligence of my case! I should have never told him that I hired him because he is one of the few that CAN take it to the federal level if needed. Money was on his mind, NOT ME!!
Read more
14 Jan, 2025 by Thomas
03 Apr, 2024 by Obfuscous oddities
I’m not sure about the others in the firm, but if Jeff Jones is as helpful here as he is as county attorney then I wouldn’t waste your time. Very disappointed.
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Truth johns
28 Jan, 2022 by Abigail trott
I hired this lawyer and he did not show up for the last court date. Also never returned a phone call.
Read more
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.
Read more
13 Apr, 2022 by Southern logistical
Ex county Attorney John Jones who disclosed edited and altered video to me in discovery with my federal lawsuit Tc Elliott v LGolston et al Shelby County Sheriff I spoke to him the day before he recused himself never spoke recusing instead he told me to let a jury decide I had motions Judge Tu Pham didn’t answer in months but soon as the motion to recuse was filed it was signed by Judge Tu Pham this whole system is corrupt they refuse to give me a open record request you have County Attorneys over records request there lies of bias for any person suing government officials they refuse to release they insurance provider I have Degenerate disc disease do to the injury’s I recieved
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Tennessee - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Nashville
-
Memphis
-
Knoxville
-
Chattanooga
-
Franklin
-
Brentwood
-
Murfreesboro
-
Jackson
-
Clarksville
-
Germantown
-
Johnson City
-
Kingsport
-
Cookeville
-
Lebanon
-
Maryville
-
Hendersonville
-
Gallatin
-
Columbia
-
Cleveland
-
Oak Ridge
-
Sevierville
-
Cordova
-
Goodlettsville
-
Collierville
-
Morristown
-
Mount Juliet
-
Greeneville
-
Bristol
-
Springfield
-
Crossville
-
Clinton
-
Dyersburg
-
Bartlett
-
Dickson
-
Signal Mountain
-
Elizabethton
-
Manchester
-
Blountville
-
Covington
-
Ashland City
-
Shelbyville
-
Athens
-
Kingston
-
Spring Hill
-
JONESBOROUGH
-
McMinnville
-
Nolensville
-
Tullahoma
-
Lawrenceburg
-
Hermitage
-
Winchester
-
Fayetteville
-
Madison
-
Dandridge
-
Paris
-
Savannah
-
Smyrna
-
Newport
-
Antioch
-
Farragut
-
Hixson
-
Jacksboro
-
Sparta
-
Millington
-
Jasper
-
Lewisburg
-
Old Hickory
-
Pulaski
-
Lenoir City
-
Somerville
-
Huntingdon
-
Union City
-
Rogersville
-
Seymour
-
Charlotte
-
College Grove
-
Ooltewah
-
Smithville
-
Tazewell
-
Livingston
-
Alcoa
-
Lexington
-
Brownsville
-
Dayton
-
Nashville-Davidson (Balance)
-
Arlington
-
Dresden
-
Loudon
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Tennessee
-
Business
-
Litigation
-
Real Estate
-
Family Law
-
Personal Injury
-
Criminal Defense
-
Estate Planning
-
Government
-
Probate
-
Trusts
-
Insurance
-
Juvenile Law
-
Elder Law
-
Appeals
-
Intellectual Property
-
Civil Rights
-
Tax
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Entertainment
-
Bankruptcy
-
Immigration
-
Debt Collection
-
Child Custody
-
Adoption
-
Workers Compensation
-
Car Accident
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Consumer Protection
-
Child Support
-
Mediation
-
Wrongful Death
-
Domestic Violence
-
Federal Crime
-
Discrimination
-
Employment / Labor
-
Class Action
-
Divorce
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Foreclosure
-
Sex Crime
-
Copyright Application
-
Debt Settlement
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Construction
-
Drug Crime
-
DUI / DWI
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Cannabis Law
-
Education Law
-
Credit Repair
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Environmental Law
-
Life Insurance
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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:
-
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.
