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08 Jun, 2024 by David henson
Amazing attorney. Everyone in the office are too notch. Definitely has your best interest at heart.
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07 Apr, 2024 by Tyler amber
14 Mar, 2024 by Marco santiago
Highly recommended,not with the b.s gets straight to work right away,I'm from Hillsborough and got caught up in polk and he did his thing I didn't even have to go to court.Id say he's one of,if not the best in polk county
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21 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Tom and Mary Jo did a great job handling my divorce case...highly recommended.
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17 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
One of the best guys I have ever met he and is team are number one in my book. if I was to move out of state I would hire him to find me a lawyer for what ever state I was in. He and his team now have a customer for life for what ever I may
need in the field of law
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31 Aug, 2017 by Kayly
I cannot express enough how grateful I am for Mr. Saunders and his team. I have consulted and hired them several times over the years regarding civil suits and occasionally when I simply needed advice. Although my issues have never been major, Mr. Saunders and his team treated them as if they were and made me feel as though I was their most important client every time. I am abundantly grateful for Mr. Saunders' thorough knowledge of the legal system, quick wit, and fast thinking. He has helped me navigate extremely stressful situations, and I leave each time feeling reassured that each situation is in his capable hands. I would recommend Saunders Law Group to anyone and can't imagine ever using another firm for my legal needs!
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13 Nov, 2015 by Ken brannen
I had gone through a horrific divorce and didn't think my previous attorney had fought as hard as possible. When I hired Maria Gallo, I was so astonished with the attention to detail, her knowledge of the law and her determined personna and work ethic to ensure my rights. Whenever an issue, either with legal issues or marital arose, she was proactive in her counsel, that she Always knew the next step AND would take all of the extra steps necessary to ensure my rights. Whether phone conversations, email communications, or meetings during working hours or email communications sent after hours, I always felt she was working so diligently for me. And she is very confident in her knowledge of the legalities of family law, especially regarding custodial rights. She always told me " you do not worry, that is why you hired me. I GOT THIS. Turn everything over to me." I was always nervous, anxious, and afraid of what could happen, and then I began to have peace, and confidence that my rights ad a father were just as important.
What she stands for regarding Ethics and extremely high moral character are second to none.
I know a lot of attorneys and have heard a lot of experiences, but I have NEVER experienced any attorney who works as hard as she does, has the ethical procedurals, and with high character and legal knowledge as Maria Gallo. She has set the bar extremely high.
There is absolutely no question that I will always look yo her and hire her for any and all legal issues I may have. She is the only one I would ever recommend.
Maria Gallo is the BEST in the industry. She really, really cares about her clients and takes great pride in her duties as an Attorney.
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26 Aug, 2013 by Nancy
We hired Attorney Gallo to handle a very difficult Family Law matter. The Department of Children and Families had taken my husbands son and we were both charged with F1 felony charges. Attorney Gallo handled our case with DCF, and she was awesome.
We always had contact with her. She always responded to us immediately. We always knew where the case was at and where it was headed. Her communication skills are excellent and SHE DOES NOT LIE TO HER CLIENTS!! I think that was the most important thing to us. She treats her clients, no matter the circumstances, with utmost respect.
She is diligent in her case work. Before court dates, she was asking questions, so you knew she was preparing and working on your case. She studies your case, so she knows every document, and she knows every nuance of the case. Her mind is like a computer and she has a memory that does not end. She thinks ahead of the competition and takes steps to counteract there moves.
She is patient, patient, patient and has massive compassion towards her clients. My husband does not read well and has a limited education. Even so, Maria Gallo took the time to explain things so that he could understand what was happening. She never lost her patience with us, even when we were in the throws of complete panic.
She is awesome in the court room. She does not back down to DCF, like some lawyers do. She is forceful towards protecting your rights. She is insistent, yet respectful, when handling the Judges. She fights for you, when no one else does.
We have been where you are at , right this moment. You are trying to maneuver through a tough time, trying to find the right attorney. It is a difficult task. Who do you hire? Who do you believe? Take my word, call Maria Gallo and get her working on your case. She will take care of you and watch out for you. We never knew Attorney Gallo, or even heard of her before our arrest. But, looking back, we are so blessed to have found her. Hire her, you will not regret it.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Rhonda forgery
I would have to say I had a very difficult divorce and Leslie Lasseigne and her assistant Stacie were amazing. They answered all my questions and were always available via phone or email. I could not stress how much at ease I felt with Leslie Lasseigne sitting next to me in court. I do not regret my choice in my legal staff and they will always be my first call.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Takima lawrence
27 Mar, 2024 by Matt grandone
I have to say the whole office was fantastic. They were there to answer my questions and concerns as I went through my divorce. Would recommend them to anyone that os need of an attorney and staff that are there for you and not just to take your money.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
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23 Apr, 2024 by R f
We worked with two different lawyers from this firm, initially being referred there for a third. Each of the lawyers worked on a total of 3 different cases. We didn't work with the initial referral but he did a free consultation and provided us with alot of info that was really helpful.
Jillian Spangler was fantastic with our first two cases. We had an extremely unconventional situation and when no one else was able to accommodate, Jillian took us on and we are so grateful for it. What started out as a devastating situation to find ourselves in, ended exactly with resolve we didn't even imagine we could get in our favor so smoothly. Our initial consultation with her we did not feel rushed and she listened attentively. I half jokingly told my husband (and she will never know this till reading this review) that she reminded me of Harley Quinn: Similiar in looks (gorgeous), smart and quick thinking, and not intimidated easily. Harley Quinn and Jillian Spangler both get things done!
She remains calm under pressure and is in it to get you the results you want. Our situation was so very stressful and unfortunately this was very dragged out, partially because we had one of our cases out of the area and she had to do a bit more research that was location exclusive to real estate in that area. I really don't know how she put up with our anxieties and concerns so tactfully because we were STRESSED. In hind sight, we had no reason to be and were in good hands. Her short answers we sometines received were spot on and I eventually learned through these that she was a very straight to the point, don't sweat the small stuff, kinda gal. I greatly appreciate her taking us on and working with us thru the holiday season in a timely manner even when short staffed due to an employee emergency.
Savannah C was the other associate we worked with. We didn't need her services to the extent we thought we might with a real estate transaction, but she was always attentive, informative and timely to respond when we did and guided us when needed.
Overall we got the results we wanted, and more, under the terms that we wanted. What more can you ask for?
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02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
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23 Apr, 2024 by R f
We worked with two different lawyers from this firm, initially being referred there for a third. Each of the lawyers worked on a total of 3 different cases. We didn't work with the initial referral but he did a free consultation and provided us with alot of info that was really helpful.
Jillian Spangler was fantastic with our first two cases. We had an extremely unconventional situation and when no one else was able to accommodate, Jillian took us on and we are so grateful for it. What started out as a devastating situation to find ourselves in, ended exactly with resolve we didn't even imagine we could get in our favor so smoothly. Our initial consultation with her we did not feel rushed and she listened attentively. I half jokingly told my husband (and she will never know this till reading this review) that she reminded me of Harley Quinn: Similiar in looks (gorgeous), smart and quick thinking, and not intimidated easily. Harley Quinn and Jillian Spangler both get things done!
She remains calm under pressure and is in it to get you the results you want. Our situation was so very stressful and unfortunately this was very dragged out, partially because we had one of our cases out of the area and she had to do a bit more research that was location exclusive to real estate in that area. I really don't know how she put up with our anxieties and concerns so tactfully because we were STRESSED. In hind sight, we had no reason to be and were in good hands. Her short answers we sometines received were spot on and I eventually learned through these that she was a very straight to the point, don't sweat the small stuff, kinda gal. I greatly appreciate her taking us on and working with us thru the holiday season in a timely manner even when short staffed due to an employee emergency.
Savannah C was the other associate we worked with. We didn't need her services to the extent we thought we might with a real estate transaction, but she was always attentive, informative and timely to respond when we did and guided us when needed.
Overall we got the results we wanted, and more, under the terms that we wanted. What more can you ask for?
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
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23 Apr, 2024 by R f
We worked with two different lawyers from this firm, initially being referred there for a third. Each of the lawyers worked on a total of 3 different cases. We didn't work with the initial referral but he did a free consultation and provided us with alot of info that was really helpful.
Jillian Spangler was fantastic with our first two cases. We had an extremely unconventional situation and when no one else was able to accommodate, Jillian took us on and we are so grateful for it. What started out as a devastating situation to find ourselves in, ended exactly with resolve we didn't even imagine we could get in our favor so smoothly. Our initial consultation with her we did not feel rushed and she listened attentively. I half jokingly told my husband (and she will never know this till reading this review) that she reminded me of Harley Quinn: Similiar in looks (gorgeous), smart and quick thinking, and not intimidated easily. Harley Quinn and Jillian Spangler both get things done!
She remains calm under pressure and is in it to get you the results you want. Our situation was so very stressful and unfortunately this was very dragged out, partially because we had one of our cases out of the area and she had to do a bit more research that was location exclusive to real estate in that area. I really don't know how she put up with our anxieties and concerns so tactfully because we were STRESSED. In hind sight, we had no reason to be and were in good hands. Her short answers we sometines received were spot on and I eventually learned through these that she was a very straight to the point, don't sweat the small stuff, kinda gal. I greatly appreciate her taking us on and working with us thru the holiday season in a timely manner even when short staffed due to an employee emergency.
Savannah C was the other associate we worked with. We didn't need her services to the extent we thought we might with a real estate transaction, but she was always attentive, informative and timely to respond when we did and guided us when needed.
Overall we got the results we wanted, and more, under the terms that we wanted. What more can you ask for?
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
Read more
23 Apr, 2024 by R f
We worked with two different lawyers from this firm, initially being referred there for a third. Each of the lawyers worked on a total of 3 different cases. We didn't work with the initial referral but he did a free consultation and provided us with alot of info that was really helpful.
Jillian Spangler was fantastic with our first two cases. We had an extremely unconventional situation and when no one else was able to accommodate, Jillian took us on and we are so grateful for it. What started out as a devastating situation to find ourselves in, ended exactly with resolve we didn't even imagine we could get in our favor so smoothly. Our initial consultation with her we did not feel rushed and she listened attentively. I half jokingly told my husband (and she will never know this till reading this review) that she reminded me of Harley Quinn: Similiar in looks (gorgeous), smart and quick thinking, and not intimidated easily. Harley Quinn and Jillian Spangler both get things done!
She remains calm under pressure and is in it to get you the results you want. Our situation was so very stressful and unfortunately this was very dragged out, partially because we had one of our cases out of the area and she had to do a bit more research that was location exclusive to real estate in that area. I really don't know how she put up with our anxieties and concerns so tactfully because we were STRESSED. In hind sight, we had no reason to be and were in good hands. Her short answers we sometines received were spot on and I eventually learned through these that she was a very straight to the point, don't sweat the small stuff, kinda gal. I greatly appreciate her taking us on and working with us thru the holiday season in a timely manner even when short staffed due to an employee emergency.
Savannah C was the other associate we worked with. We didn't need her services to the extent we thought we might with a real estate transaction, but she was always attentive, informative and timely to respond when we did and guided us when needed.
Overall we got the results we wanted, and more, under the terms that we wanted. What more can you ask for?
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
Read more
23 Apr, 2024 by R f
We worked with two different lawyers from this firm, initially being referred there for a third. Each of the lawyers worked on a total of 3 different cases. We didn't work with the initial referral but he did a free consultation and provided us with alot of info that was really helpful.
Jillian Spangler was fantastic with our first two cases. We had an extremely unconventional situation and when no one else was able to accommodate, Jillian took us on and we are so grateful for it. What started out as a devastating situation to find ourselves in, ended exactly with resolve we didn't even imagine we could get in our favor so smoothly. Our initial consultation with her we did not feel rushed and she listened attentively. I half jokingly told my husband (and she will never know this till reading this review) that she reminded me of Harley Quinn: Similiar in looks (gorgeous), smart and quick thinking, and not intimidated easily. Harley Quinn and Jillian Spangler both get things done!
She remains calm under pressure and is in it to get you the results you want. Our situation was so very stressful and unfortunately this was very dragged out, partially because we had one of our cases out of the area and she had to do a bit more research that was location exclusive to real estate in that area. I really don't know how she put up with our anxieties and concerns so tactfully because we were STRESSED. In hind sight, we had no reason to be and were in good hands. Her short answers we sometines received were spot on and I eventually learned through these that she was a very straight to the point, don't sweat the small stuff, kinda gal. I greatly appreciate her taking us on and working with us thru the holiday season in a timely manner even when short staffed due to an employee emergency.
Savannah C was the other associate we worked with. We didn't need her services to the extent we thought we might with a real estate transaction, but she was always attentive, informative and timely to respond when we did and guided us when needed.
Overall we got the results we wanted, and more, under the terms that we wanted. What more can you ask for?
Read more
11 Apr, 2023 by Liliana rubio
Please do not trust this law group they did not do anything for me except kept charging me 1000 each month without doing anything. They did not tell me I have to pay each month and I even questioned it before signing and they said no and that they should not take long that it will not be much time. Well, that was not the case it was more than 6 months and I had to pay every month or else they will not do anything for me. They totally stole my money and when I had to lost my home since they did not do anything for me, they wrote a letter to the escrow to take the remaindering balance off the sale without telling me nothing. Please please please dont trust these lawyers.
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31 Mar, 2023 by Joe petkoff
20 Nov, 2022 by Jasmine bracero
02 Aug, 2024 by Nayleth lopez
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, do not call them, because their firm does not handle divorce cases, in direct contract to the information on their website. They need to update their information so that people calling for assistance do not waste their time.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Ryan dush
Hands down the best legal team around!
Read more
23 Apr, 2024 by R f
We worked with two different lawyers from this firm, initially being referred there for a third. Each of the lawyers worked on a total of 3 different cases. We didn't work with the initial referral but he did a free consultation and provided us with alot of info that was really helpful.
Jillian Spangler was fantastic with our first two cases. We had an extremely unconventional situation and when no one else was able to accommodate, Jillian took us on and we are so grateful for it. What started out as a devastating situation to find ourselves in, ended exactly with resolve we didn't even imagine we could get in our favor so smoothly. Our initial consultation with her we did not feel rushed and she listened attentively. I half jokingly told my husband (and she will never know this till reading this review) that she reminded me of Harley Quinn: Similiar in looks (gorgeous), smart and quick thinking, and not intimidated easily. Harley Quinn and Jillian Spangler both get things done!
She remains calm under pressure and is in it to get you the results you want. Our situation was so very stressful and unfortunately this was very dragged out, partially because we had one of our cases out of the area and she had to do a bit more research that was location exclusive to real estate in that area. I really don't know how she put up with our anxieties and concerns so tactfully because we were STRESSED. In hind sight, we had no reason to be and were in good hands. Her short answers we sometines received were spot on and I eventually learned through these that she was a very straight to the point, don't sweat the small stuff, kinda gal. I greatly appreciate her taking us on and working with us thru the holiday season in a timely manner even when short staffed due to an employee emergency.
Savannah C was the other associate we worked with. We didn't need her services to the extent we thought we might with a real estate transaction, but she was always attentive, informative and timely to respond when we did and guided us when needed.
Overall we got the results we wanted, and more, under the terms that we wanted. What more can you ask for?
Read more
25 Feb, 2024 by Anita durden
Horrible attorney my opinion,I made the mistake of hiring him n I regret it for the rest of my life. No morals,loyality,.
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21 Jan, 2024 by B. mathis
Let me first start off by saying that the justice system for people of color is a joke. I contacted Attorney Kelly Collier for representation by a referral of Zona Long Bailbond in Bartow. Being that my family had never had to seek bail or a defense attorney we weren't familiar with either company. We selected the two above mentioned companies. Not one of best decisions. I should have been alarmed when I was advised by the bondsman that they were legally unable to provide any attorney info but just so happen to have Attorney Colliers contact information visible for me to use. Once the initial meeting with Mr. Collier took place he was paid in full. He advised that he would be getting with the state to discuss if charges would even be filed against his newly hired client. We met Mr. Collier on 4/24/23 he seemed as if he was truly going to be able to assist in the matter. At time of initial meeting Mr. Collier was made aware that the potential plaintiff want to sign a waiver of prosecution but due to personal reason was unable to go to courthouse. I asked as the attorney for defendant would he be able to assist with get the waiver completed, his response was less that helpful. He could care less with assisting with clearing his clients name. From that point forward he was just another body at every appointment and seemed to never know what was going on. He was late to every hearing never recognized his client when he finally showed up. Just tacky and very unbecoming. He allowed the courts to continue to drag out proceedings instead speaking up on his clients behalf. The case was drug on for 7 months and Mr. Collier did absolutely nothing. He rarely answered the phone or responded to emails. On the morning of the final hearing 11/08/23 Mr. Collier was yet again late and walked into the courtroom and could not identify his client. As I sat in the hall he walks out and I addressed him. There is no victim & no actual proof of a crime committed so we are still uncertain how the state has a case. He acted as if he was dumbfounded as to this news. Yet he has the audacity to tell me the state wants to offer his client 1 year of probation. Funny thing is he never notified his client prior to this hearing. He assumed that we would accept this under duress. I instantly said no and it’s time for him to do his job. At this time he proceed to tell me that he is working two courtrooms and would be back. I had to the remind him that he has been paid in full & this defendant is also just as important even if he can’t remember his name or face. Time comes as his client stands before the judge the charges are instantly dropped. But of course had we accepted that one year of probation he would be another victim of the unjust justice system. We paid Attorney Collier for representation and almost got railroaded. To make matters even worse he wants to charge $500 to assist with record expungement. I would NOT recommend this attorney to anyone. Did not feel that he valued the importance of ensuring that my family was vindicated.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Herman.threat
This guy is a trash attorney just go with a public defender.He will not defend you at all he only wants your money to buy coke then he only tries to make you take a deal with the state, if you dot not take it you are done period. STAY AWAY.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
John Lynch is rude, he doesn’t explain anything to you. I had to try to find ways to get my boyfriend out of jail. He’s been locked up for 6 months now and hasn’t even went to VOP court. I tried to get him out on Behavioral court and John Lynch refused to ask the state Attorney. His court date just got moved to the end of July and the lawyer has not put in any motion to get him a bond or anything. He waited 5 months for even visiting my boyfriend in jail. Was only there like 10 minutes and didn’t explain anything to him. I paid $2000 and my boyfriend would of been better off with a public defender. This lawyer is so sketchy. He only text not calls and you have to pay him through Western Union.
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31 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
John Lynch went above and beyond what is expected of an attorney. Every phone call and message was returned and every question and concern was addressed promptly and accurately. There was no issue left unresolved and no detail for my defense was forgotten or overlooked. He updated me through each stage of the court process and successfully won my case with a motion to suppress evidence that was illegally obtained. He worked very hard for me and with me. Mr. Lynch is an expert lawyer who cares about his clients rights. I highly recommend him to everyone who needs a criminal lawyer. He knows the law and will fight for justice.
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14 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired John Lynch and twice he showed up in court disheveled and unorganized. He would not answer a question another time and threaten to get a court officer to bar me from the court house. I do not feel he fought my case to his full potential. After the case was done he would not answer or return my calls. Biggest regret of my life! I am still paying people back money loaned to pay attorney.
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Litigation Lawyer Can Do for You
A litigation lawyer specializes in representing individuals, businesses, or organizations involved in legal disputes. Whether you're the one filing a lawsuit or you're being sued, a litigation attorney will advocate on your behalf throughout the entire legal process. Their goal is to resolve disputes, either through negotiation, settlement, or trial. Litigation lawyers can help with a wide range of disputes, including contract disagreements, real estate issues, employment disputes, personal injury claims, and more.
Litigation lawyers provide strategic legal advice and manage all aspects of your case, from filing motions to representing you in court, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome.
When Should I Hire a Litigation Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a litigation lawyer if you're involved in a legal dispute that you cannot resolve on your own. Common situations include:
- Breach of contract disputes: If a party to a contract fails to fulfill their obligations, a litigation lawyer can help you seek damages or enforce the agreement.
- Business disputes: Litigation lawyers can represent you in cases of partnership disagreements, intellectual property disputes, or business fraud.
- Employment disputes: If you're facing issues like wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, or wage disputes, a litigation lawyer can help resolve these matters through negotiation or court action.
- Personal injury claims: If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence and are seeking compensation, a litigation attorney can help you pursue your case.
- Real estate or property disputes: When there are conflicts over property ownership, boundary issues, or lease agreements, a litigation lawyer can assist in resolving the dispute.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process is beneficial, especially if a lawsuit seems imminent or you have already been served with legal documents.
What Does a Litigation Lawyer Do?
A litigation lawyer handles all aspects of your case, from the initial investigation to the trial and even the appeals process, if necessary. Their role includes:
- Case assessment and investigation: Analyzing the facts of your case and advising whether it’s worth pursuing or defending.
- Pleadings and motions: Drafting and filing documents to initiate or respond to a lawsuit, including complaints, motions to dismiss, and answers.
- Discovery: Gathering evidence, including depositions, interrogatories, and document requests, to build your case.
- Negotiations and settlement discussions: Attempting to resolve disputes through mediation, arbitration, or settlement talks before going to trial.
- Trial representation: Presenting your case in court, examining witnesses, introducing evidence, and making legal arguments before a judge or jury.
- Appeals: If necessary, filing appeals to challenge or defend the outcome of the trial.
Litigation lawyers are also skilled negotiators and often work to resolve disputes outside of court to save time, money, and stress for their clients.
How Are Litigation Lawyers Paid?
Litigation lawyers typically use a variety of fee structures depending on the type of case, the complexity of the legal matter, and the financial circumstances of the client. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Many litigation attorneys charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and geographic location.
- Flat fees: For specific, predictable legal tasks (such as filing a motion), lawyers may offer a flat fee.
- Contingency fees: In personal injury or other cases where you seek damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency basis, taking a percentage of the settlement or award if you win.
- Retainer: Some clients pay a retainer fee upfront to secure ongoing legal services. The lawyer then bills against this retainer as work is done.
The exact structure should be discussed in the initial consultation to ensure you understand how and when you'll be charged.
How Much Does a Litigation Lawyer Cost?
The cost of a litigation lawyer varies significantly depending on the nature of the dispute and the lawyer’s experience. Factors affecting the cost include:
- The complexity of the case: More complex litigation involving extensive discovery, expert witnesses, or multi-party suits typically costs more.
- Time spent: Litigation cases can be time-consuming, especially if they go to trial. The longer the case, the higher the legal fees.
- Type of fee arrangement: Hourly rates can range from $200 to over $1,000 per hour, depending on the lawyer’s reputation and location. Contingency fees generally range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or award.
- Stage of litigation: Cases that settle early in the process are often less expensive than those that proceed to trial or appeal.
It’s crucial to ask about cost estimates during your initial consultation to avoid surprises.
Top Questions to Ask a Litigation Lawyer
Before hiring a litigation lawyer, it's essential to ask key questions to ensure you're choosing the right representation:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Ensure that the lawyer has experience handling your specific type of dispute, whether it's a contract issue, personal injury, or business matter. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case's strengths, weaknesses, and the likelihood of success. -
What is your fee structure?
Clarify how you'll be charged, whether by the hour, a flat fee, or on a contingency basis. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it's hard to predict, an experienced lawyer can give you a rough estimate based on similar cases. -
How often do you settle cases versus going to trial?
Some lawyers are more inclined to settle, while others may be more experienced in the courtroom. It’s important to understand their strategy. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Some lawyers prefer aggressive litigation, while others focus on settlement or mediation. Choose one whose approach aligns with your goals.
How to Check the Credibility of a Litigation Lawyer
To verify a litigation lawyer’s credibility, consider the following steps:
- Check bar association records: Ensure the lawyer is in good standing with the state bar and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and track record.
- Look for litigation experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they have handled cases like yours and have a record of success.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer to provide references from past clients who can speak to their effectiveness and approach.
- Research their trial experience: If your case is likely to go to trial, ensure the lawyer has a history of courtroom success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make your first consultation with a litigation lawyer productive, you should prepare the following:
- A clear outline of the dispute: Provide a timeline and key details about the legal issue you're facing.
- Any relevant documents: Bring contracts, emails, letters, or any other documentation that pertains to the case.
- A list of key players: Provide the names of individuals or companies involved in the dispute.
- Questions about fees and the litigation process: Make sure you understand how the lawyer plans to approach your case and how you will be charged.
- Your goals and expectations: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, whether it's a settlement, compensation, or another resolution.
By coming prepared, you can ensure that your initial meeting with the lawyer is both efficient and insightful, giving you a better sense of how to proceed with your case.
