Filter by

star star star star star
26 Feb, 2017 by Rea johnson
We hired this lawyer to represent our firm in a subcontractor breach of contract dispute on 1/18/2016. We then proceeded to an unsuccessful mediation with the subcontractor. I hired the lawyer since he was considered a mediation expert by his peers but after the unsuccessful mediation, I would disagree. Thereafter he withdrew as my attorney mainly because he wanted me to settle for a large amount of money without providing a viable reason to settle. When I hired him initially, I was very clear that we may proceed with the trial if we had an unsuccessful mediation. By him withdrawing without a good and specific reason made us look unfavorable to the judge. The judge thought something had to be wrong with us as the client when the lawyer withdrew from the case. It also left us very vulnerable where we had to rush to find new representation when we needed dire help to avoid adverse consequences. Also, this lawyer did not take the time to help solve our problem. We had to come up with our own solution which cleared the cloud on the property and we were able to get ALL undisputed subs paid. Ultimately, we did successfully settle with the disputed sub but at a much lower amount with a highly ethical and experienced lawyer. Can a lawyer withdraw from a case? Yes, but this can create ethical issues when I believe this lawyer withdrew for other reasons unknown and unclear. Disagreement of when to settle should not be used as an excuse to withdraw from a case. Unless the client is willfully refusing to pay or there are reasons which are more specific which both parties fundamentally disagree, I believe that the attorney has an obligation, ethical or moral, to finish out the representation.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
27 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Refused to file for default judgment when defense missed response deadline. then refused to amend a pleading to avoid 12(b)6 "failure to state a claim." Case dismissed: some claims with prejudice and the rest are now past the statute of limitations. Refused to quickly file a motion for reconsideration and assert right to R15 leave to amend. Refused to use resources or bring another lawyer in to try and fix things. Additionally, he does not have any staff which really hinders anyone's ability to reach him and it really drags things out. Its sad because personally he is enjoyable, probably well intentioned, but he does not engage in adequate follow through. Kind requests for updates receive no response. I worked with him for a long time and I'm disappointed he chose to not perform to the best he is capable of.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Jul, 2015 by Chris
Ms. Gooden was a mediator in my divorce. She accomplished nothing. She spent at least 80% of her time with one side of the matter, mine, and did not attempt in any way to achieve mediation. At the end of the session I made an offer to my ex that was much more generous than what our arrangement was. Ms. Gooden did not discuss that offer with my ex. Ms. Gooden had another commitment and I must assume decided to leave before discussing the offer. If that is the case, that would be malpractice. Opposing counsel knew nothing of the offer so you make your own decision
Read more Avvo
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