Filter by

George Christopher Wood, experienced Adoption, Business attorney in Bloomington, IL with 85 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.
25,66
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
85 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by Vernon vanwaters
I have a lot to say that is negative about this firm. First, the retainer that is demanded is so outrageously high that it is absolutely ridiculous. I was originally quoted 15k. Then, after stating that I only had a specific amount, they found their one and only Mike Fenger to take my case. This is where the real joke began. At first, this firm appears professional, but don't let that deceive you. I would receive emails from Mr Fenger and the firm that would only cover them after making mistakes. They would call me on the phone and chew me out. I did not understand what I was doing and kindly told them. They did not take the time to explain but rather took the time to tell me that they reacted the way they did because they were just really busy. I would tell them what I wanted to happen in my case, which is completely normal. However, I would get no response as to what i asked to get done, nor did I get what I asked for. The conversations that I would have with Mr Fenger in person would always have a different outcome either in court or through email. He would show up to court, looking like he had just rolled out of bed. His presentation in court represented the same. It was a joke. He acted like he did so much for me, but in reality, it was nothing he did but rather a new judge I received in the case. This can all be proved in the minutes of the case. After nothing was done in my case, I wasted over $8,000. Mr Fenger did nothing but take my money and give a lot of excuses. I told him that I was extremely unhappy and that I was going to leave this review. He was up set and worried about only his livelihood and could care less about my livlihood. He will not fight for you he will merely coward to the opposite party. My children are suffering from this, and this man could care less. I would hear nothing about what was going on in my case except for a day or so before we had to go to court. He never would sit down with me to get a plan to execute in court to win. You will not win with this man as your attorney. He will only act like he is doing things while you will be steam rolled. Then, they will just say that it is only protocol. This is a lie. I have spoken with other attorneys and have found out that this was typical behavior of buy out. These people are only worried about their pocket book and their six-figure life styles. They can care less about how much you and your children are suffering. You can go somewhere else and spend less money and get a lot more.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Dec, 2024 by Shane
Mike Fenger is an exceptional attorney! He was prepared, invested, and quick on his feet in the courtroom. He was very helpful at guiding me while tensions were high and was able to help me understand what to expect as the case progressed. Overall, I went from hardly any time (thanks to Virginia coomonwealth) with my kids, to a 50/50 joint situation, and I'm thrilled! I will definitely be using Mike in the future should I need representation again, and I would highly recommend him to any good father fighting for time with his children.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Sep, 2024 by Cathy melick
Google Maps
See more
G. Timothy Leighton, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Bloomington, IL with 0 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.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Nargis Khokhar, experienced Criminal Defense, Divorce attorney in Bloomington, IL with 0 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Edward Wilson Diffin III, experienced Insurance, Lawsuit / Dispute attorney in Bloomington, IL with 0 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Brian Robert Shoemaker, experienced Insurance, Lawsuit / Dispute attorney in Bloomington, IL with 0 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
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 a Lawsuit / Dispute Lawyer Can Do for You

A lawsuit or dispute lawyer, often referred to as a litigation lawyer, specializes in handling legal conflicts between individuals, businesses, or organizations. These lawyers represent clients in civil lawsuits, helping to resolve disputes through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation in court. They can assist with a wide range of disputes, including contract disagreements, property disputes, business conflicts, personal injury claims, and more.

If you are involved in a legal conflict and need representation, a dispute lawyer can guide you through the litigation process - from filing or defending against a lawsuit to negotiating settlements or representing you at trial.

When Should I Hire a Lawsuit / Dispute Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a lawsuit or dispute lawyer when you're involved in a legal disagreement that cannot be resolved informally and may require legal action. Common reasons to hire a lawyer include:

  • Breach of contract: If someone has failed to fulfill the terms of a contract, a lawyer can help you file a lawsuit to seek damages or enforce the agreement.
  • Business disputes: Whether it's a partnership disagreement, shareholder conflict, or a dispute with a supplier or customer, a lawyer can help resolve business-related issues.
  • Property disputes: If you're involved in a dispute over property ownership, boundary issues, or landlord-tenant conflicts, a lawyer can assist in resolving the matter.
  • Personal injury claims: If you were injured due to someone else's negligence and are seeking compensation, a lawyer can represent you in a personal injury lawsuit.
  • Debt collection or defense: If you're being sued for unpaid debts or need to collect a debt owed to you, a lawyer can represent you in court or negotiate settlements.
  • Employment disputes: If you're involved in an employment-related dispute, such as wrongful termination or discrimination, a lawyer can help you file a claim and represent you in court.
  • Defending against a lawsuit: If you've been sued, a lawyer can defend you against the claims, challenge the evidence, and negotiate a settlement or represent you at trial.

Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help ensure that your case is properly managed and that your rights are protected throughout the dispute resolution process.

What Does a Lawsuit / Dispute Lawyer Do?

A lawsuit or dispute lawyer provides a wide range of services to help clients navigate legal conflicts and seek resolution. Their tasks typically include:

  • Evaluating your case: Reviewing the facts and evidence to determine the strength of your case or defense and advising you on the best course of action.
  • Filing lawsuits or responding to lawsuits: If you're the plaintiff, the lawyer will file a lawsuit on your behalf. If you're the defendant, they will respond to the lawsuit and build a defense strategy.
  • Gathering evidence: Collecting and reviewing evidence such as contracts, emails, financial records, and witness statements to support your case.
  • Handling negotiations: Negotiating with the opposing party to reach a settlement before the case goes to trial, which can save time and money.
  • Representing you in court: Presenting your case in court if a settlement cannot be reached, including presenting evidence, questioning witnesses, and making legal arguments on your behalf.
  • Exploring alternative dispute resolution (ADR): Suggesting mediation or arbitration as alternatives to a trial, which can be faster and less expensive.
  • Drafting legal documents: Preparing and filing necessary legal documents such as complaints, motions, and responses, as well as drafting settlement agreements if a resolution is reached.

How Are Lawsuit / Dispute Lawyers Paid?

The fee structure for lawsuit or dispute lawyers varies depending on the complexity of the case, the type of dispute, and the lawyer's experience. Common payment methods include:

  • Hourly rate: Many lawsuit lawyers charge by the hour, especially for cases that require extensive preparation, research, and trial work. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Contingency fee: In certain cases, such as personal injury or breach of contract claims, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win the case, usually taking a percentage (typically 25% to 40%) of the settlement or damages awarded.
  • Flat fee: For specific services, such as filing a simple lawsuit or representing you in mediation, some lawyers may charge a flat fee.
  • Retainer: In complex cases or long-term litigation, a lawyer may ask for a retainer, which is an upfront payment to secure their services. The lawyer will then bill against the retainer as they work on the case.

Discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how fees will be handled throughout the case.

How Much Does a Lawsuit / Dispute Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a lawsuit or dispute lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer's experience, and the fee structure they use. General cost estimates include:

  • Hourly rates: Lawyers may charge between $150 and $500 per hour, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases requiring extensive trial preparation.
  • Contingency fees: If your lawyer works on a contingency basis, expect them to take 25% to 40% of any settlement or court award. For example, if you win $100,000 and the contingency fee is 33%, the lawyer would receive $33,000.
  • Flat fees: For less complex disputes or tasks, such as drafting a settlement agreement or representing you in mediation, flat fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the scope of work.
  • Retainers: Some lawyers require an upfront retainer fee, which can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the case complexity and expected litigation length.

Make sure to ask for a detailed breakdown of fees during your consultation so you know what to expect.

Top Questions to Ask a Lawsuit / Dispute Lawyer

Before hiring a lawsuit or dispute lawyer, consider asking the following questions:

  1. What experience do you have with cases like mine?
    Ensure the lawyer has handled similar disputes and is familiar with the relevant area of law.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether they charge hourly, on a contingency fee basis, or offer flat fees, and ask for a detailed cost estimate.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case and potential challenges.
  4. Have you handled cases that went to trial?
    If a trial is possible, confirm the lawyer has courtroom experience.
  5. How long will the process take?
    Get an estimate of the timeline for resolving your dispute.
  6. Will you handle my case personally?
    Understand who will manage your case and their level of involvement.

How to Check the Credibility of a Lawsuit / Dispute Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Check their bar status: Confirm with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed and has no disciplinary actions.
  • Look for relevant experience: Review their website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in litigation or dispute resolution.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for feedback on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should provide references from past clients.
  • Check for professional affiliations: Membership in organizations like the American Bar Association’s Section of Litigation can indicate expertise.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your initial meeting, bring the following:

  • Contracts or agreements: Copies of any signed contracts or relevant agreements.
  • Emails and communications: Any written communication between you and the other party.
  • Evidence of the dispute: Receipts, financial records, photos, or witness statements related to the conflict.
  • Timeline of events: A clear chronology of the dispute, including key dates and interactions.
  • List of questions: Prepared questions about your case, the legal process, costs, and strategy.

Being well-prepared will help the lawyer assess your case effectively and provide you with the best legal advice on how to proceed.

Scroll to top