Lawyers map
>124
experienced lawyers
Filter by
10 Sep, 2024 by Brandie mitchell
Wes went above and beyond our expectations for an attorney! After being hit by an uninsured motorist, we were completely overwhelmed with the entire legal process. Wes not only eased our minds by handling the legal work for us but also checked in on us as we healed as well. We couldn't be more grateful for Wes and The Southerland Law Firm team for everything they did to help us during one of the most difficult times in our lives.
Read more
07 Sep, 2024 by Kimberly milligan
Stan Davis gave of his time to make sure our matter was resolved in the best possible way. He patiently listened and went the extra mile to help. He is professional, knowledgeable, and kind.
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by Tyisha thomas
Mr. Davis was such a delight! He made the most painful experience in my life very special. He treated with me with such care and grace! The entire office was such a joy 🤎
Read more
5.0
20 Reviews
5.0
182 Reviews
26 Sep, 2024 by Henry williams
We received not only an excellent end product but done with professionalism and accuracy. We would highly recommend.
Henry and Marilyn Williams
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Jan schweitzer
28 Aug, 2024 by Kate read ezell
10 Sep, 2024 by Brandie mitchell
Wes went above and beyond our expectations for an attorney! After being hit by an uninsured motorist, we were completely overwhelmed with the entire legal process. Wes not only eased our minds by handling the legal work for us but also checked in on us as we healed as well. We couldn't be more grateful for Wes and The Southerland Law Firm team for everything they did to help us during one of the most difficult times in our lives.
Read more
07 Sep, 2024 by Kimberly milligan
Stan Davis gave of his time to make sure our matter was resolved in the best possible way. He patiently listened and went the extra mile to help. He is professional, knowledgeable, and kind.
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by Tyisha thomas
Mr. Davis was such a delight! He made the most painful experience in my life very special. He treated with me with such care and grace! The entire office was such a joy 🤎
Read more
26 Sep, 2024 by Henry williams
We received not only an excellent end product but done with professionalism and accuracy. We would highly recommend.
Henry and Marilyn Williams
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Jan schweitzer
28 Aug, 2024 by Kate read ezell
05 Jul, 2024 by Stargaze00
Bennett Wills is extremely compassionate, caring and kind. He took the time to explain things about my case that no one else had. He listened when I talked and that seems rare these days. I would highly recommend Bennett Wills and trust him to handle your case with enthusiasm.
Read more
21 Sep, 2023 by Indrani and gopal
We were dragged in a false rental dispute. At that time we knew nothing about judiciary system. Mr. Bennett Wills, a good and knowledgeable attorney, took our case and led us to a monumental win.
No one wants to be involved in a court case, but when someone accused us falsely and the financial costs were too high, we needed to fight back. Mr. Bennett guided us in every step of the process, comfort me and gave me the peace of mind in stressful situations. My family stood solid, behind us always as well.
He was prompt in replying emails, charged by quantum of 6 minutes though! He was discrete, sharp and straight forward from the beginning, later in the discovery sessions, and finally in the deliberations in the court. His way of presenting the case may not be theatrical but very effective. At the end we won, a big one!
We appreciate and thank Bennett for his outstanding service.
Read more
18 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Bennet Wills is extremely professional and will fight for his clients. He was hired to deal with a dishonest contractor. I highly recommend him for any all litigation needs.
Read more
20 Jun, 2024 by Rebecca white
Julie Moss of The Blair Law Firm assisted us in revising our legal documents. She was very thoughtful, thorough and responsive. I highly recommend this firm to anyone needing estate planning assistance.
Read more
20 Nov, 2021 by Steve griffin
Our experience with Julie Moss was exceptional. She took as much time as needed to explained the details of our documents and to answer any questions we had. Her advice regarding our estate and power of attorney documents was invaluable.
Dr. Steven A. Griffin
Read more
27 Aug, 2020 by Cgfreck foundation
Wonderful, caring, & intelligent people! Very affordable and Rebecca Blair gets the job done!
Read more
22 Mar, 2024 by Heidi
Thank God for Wesley Southerland! He and his team went above and beyond for me after I had a car accident which resulted in a head injury (vision damage & memory issues) and neck/back injuries. The other driver was 100% at fault, but his insurance company refused to pay enough to even cover my medical costs. Wesley negotiated hard and long without giving up. He got me the maximum amount the other driver's policy covered! The settlement was five times more than the original offer AND Wesley accomplished this without us ever having to go to court! This was far more than I'd expected and such a relief.
I've worked with attorneys in other capacities on several occasions, and this team was by far the best of them all. They were prompt with communications and very understanding when I had other life issues that interfered with the progress of the case. Everyone in his office was a pleasure to work with. I'd highly recommend Wes and his team to anyone who needs representation.
Read more
24 Jul, 2022 by Jen
Wes represented me after I was hit by a teenager who was texting while driving. It was a long process because my recovery and treatment wasn’t quick nor resolved after a short time. Wes was patient and committed from beginning to represent me for as long as I needed to get the treatment and diagnosis for the future going forward. He’s resolved, professional and fought on my behalf. So grateful for his legal services,
Professionalism and understanding/knowledge of litigation for a car accident.
Read more
19 Oct, 2021 by Marco
Wes did a great job of fighting for my wife that was in a wreck. He fought to get her everything she deserved and was always in contact with both of us. He also always checked in to she how she was doing and how her surgery went. He was there every step of the way, and made us very comfortable through the process.
Read more
21 Apr, 2024 by Cathrine
I was working with another lawyer within the same law group. When I switched to Alyssa, everything became very streamlined and efficient. She does her job well and is succinct with all court matters. Alyssa is very grounded and easy to work with. She is professional and carries herself as such, but is not stuffy or condescending. I would be very happy to work with her again.
Read more
16 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Alyssa C. was a great attorney in helping me through my legal matter. I would definitely hire her again if future issues arouse. She heard my case and was able to compile and articulate a solid argument in my favor, that led to the desired and expedient outcome. She was able to walk my through the entire process so I would know what to expect, depending on which avenue the legal matter went. I feel like I can breath again thanks to her services. The organization was great and professional as well.
Read more
14 Aug, 2023 by David
Alyssa was a great selection for my unique case. My case involved a divorce with a military connection as well as the dissolution of a 30 year marriage while also dealing with a disabled spouse. All these conditions created a delicate situation to handle and Alyssa did so with expert ability while also explaining the process and legal requirements all along the way. I was able to receive my desired result while also being fair and honest with my former spouse. Both of us were satisfied with the final outcome of the non-contested case. The already difficult process was made much less stressful by the professionalism of Alyssa and the Cole law group associates and experts who assisted her. Their fees were reasonable for the work they completed and I would recommend the CLG firm and especially Alyssa to anyone facing the difficult and unfortunate situation of divorce in Tennessee.
Read more
28 May, 2019 by Molly
Kent gives up his Saturdays every week to assist and advise Vanderbilt law students at Vanderbilt's free medical clinic. The students gain invaluable experience through working with Kent and watching him work with the diverse clients and their varied legal needs. He devises trainings and opportunities for students to continue to expand their legal knowledge outside the classroom.
Read more
27 May, 2019 by Peter
Kent and I first met when our daughters were playing AYSO soccer. He was/is approachable, engaging, intelligent, and someone you trust almost immediately. For me the measure of a man is how he interacts with his family and Kent sets the bar for all of us. Later when I had a sensitive legal issue, Kent was the first person I called. He was extraordinarily professional yet understanding on a personal level. He seemed to never forget we were husbands and fathers first and foremost. Later Kent advised my wife on some IP matters and again, he was thorough and profoundly human. In this day when professional services providers are so transactional, Kent remains the one setting the bar for competence and compassion. My family and I trust him in all matters from the legally complex to the personally sensitive.
Read more
27 May, 2019 by Emily
Kent has served as our supervising attorney for our school's Medical Legal Partnership over the past year and has done an incredible job educating students about how to interact with clients and what kinds of questions to ask them. He has a great demeanor with clients and knows how to make people feel comfortable while asking the tough questions and getting to the bottom of whatever issue the client is dealing with.
Read more
08 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Not answered a legal question I had (along with a few other attorneys ) and she seemed to have actually took time to think my question through and was very thorough with her answer. If we decide to pursue the situation, we will most definitely try to hire her for our case. Thank you, Joy!
Read more
10 Sep, 2013 by Chris
I have used Joy as a defense attorney both for my employer (a property/casualty firm) under UIM coverage and as a defense attorney for our named insureds under BI coverage. She provides excellent service and normally gets back in contact regarding questions w/in 24 hours, which is a big plus for me. I hire many good attorneys in jurisdictions across the country: Joy is easily rated as among my top 10%.
Read more
03 Sep, 2013 by Phyllis
Joy Day has represented me in several litigation matters and on several contract negotiations. She has been professional, honest and has always gotten the results that were in my best interest. She is in fact representing me presently in the biggest contract negotiations in the history of my company. She is responsive to my inquiries and to the other party in the contract negotiations.
Read more
26 Apr, 2013 by Alonzo
Alex handled my divorce case in 2012. He is very organized and kept me informed at all times. Alex did an outstaning job for me. I highly recommend Alex. Thank you once again Alex.
Read more
09 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Fasching is helping me with my family law case and is very good at managing my case. He listens to my concerns and addresses them in the best way possible to both reduce the conflict and obtain the results I am requesting.
Read more
25 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
George Copple is as good as it gets. He cares and proves it by the legal advise he gives and the written briefs that are submitted. You can find a good lawyer most places but you can't find a good lawyer that cares and considers your case important as if it was his like George Copple.
He is the best and I am so grateful I found him.
Read more
16 Apr, 2016 by Robert
Mr. Lightsey has represented our business for several years. He has conducted 100% of our businesses legal needs and we would not consider working for anyone else. Mr. Lightsey has a thorough understanding of the law and we are extremely happy with his services which have included the creation of our corporation and ongoing legal counsel as needed. We emphatically recommend Lightsey Law!
Read more
09 Jun, 2015 by Privateone
I originally was a client of Abby Rubenfeld regarding the dissolution of a gay relationship and an attempt to retrieve my personal property. She and her staff were extremely rude, and I also caught her in a lie, saying she had been in contact with my ex's attorney when she really had not. Having been caught, she resigned and recommended this attorney.
Mr. Jablonski was professional and non-judgment throughout the entire experience. He also timely kept me informed.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Bryan burt
Daniel is a phenomenal lawyer. I cannot express how well he remains in communication with you personally throughout your legal process from start to finish. His professionalism and Etiquette is top tier! I was beyond grateful for his devotion to my case. I highly recommend hiring Daniel as your lawyer. I’ve hired many and he surpassed them all.
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Mary middleton
The Nesheiwat Law Group was compassionate and committed from start to finish on my case. After a major loss, Daniel and Sean were always available during the course of working with my home insurance and handled any hurdles along the way. I am incredibly thankful to have had them in my corner and their support. Highly recommend!
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Dr. danielle cooper
Wow! There are so many good things I can say, but I'll start with this: Have you ever wanted reliable, patient, and thorough attorneys in your back pocket for life's everyday challenges? Look no further! The Nesheiwat Law Group provides just that, backed by intellect, expertise, and amazing customer service.
I met Daniel and Sean in 2021 when I had an incident that left me displaced and living in a hotel for a few weeks. Daniel, the attorney, and Sean, the paralegal, helped resolve my issue within a matter of months. In 2023, I encountered another concern when I was rear-ended on I-65 in Brentwood. I immediately contacted them again, knowing they could assist with my concerns, and they did.
This law firm, along with Daniel's wife Christine, advocated for me and knew exactly how to assist. They guided me every step of the way, allowing me to return to my lifestyle while managing countless medical treatments. While Daniel and Christine are heaven-sent, I have to shout out Sean because he is the best paralegal there is. He's a mix between Rachel and Mike from "Suits" on Netflix in terms of getting the job done. He's also extremely witty and knowledgeable.
I will truly miss our conversations and updates on my cases. It was evident how much Sean and the team thoroughly enjoy helping people. There are other companies I could have trusted, but I wouldn't have it any other way than to remain with The Nesheiwat Law Group for all my needs.
Thank you, guys! You will always have a special place in my phone.
Read more
19 Sep, 2020 by Tracy palubicki-morris
13 Oct, 2024 by Ca coleman
Sandy's acumen for divorce-related financial matters is unparalleled. She is black and white without being cold. I'm glad to know I can turn to her for assistance with such questions, even years after our divorce was finalized.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Hollis calhoun
Sandy Arons was an incredible resource and helped me the entire way through my divorce. She is knowledgeable, reasonable, and unflappable. Even during tense moments, she was able to restore calm and keep everything on track. She is responsive and accessible, and if I had a question outside her purview she did the research to get me the answer. She is thorough and trusted. I could not recommend her more highly.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Tim smith
I have been involved in several successful family law mediations with Sandy. She is prepared, knowledgeable, detail oriented and always interested in the pursuit of a fair settlement. Sandy is impartial, objective, honest, reliable and intelligent. Sandy grasps the issues straightaway and understands the dynamics and complexities of the dispute. Highly recommended. Tim W. Smith, Attorney
Read more
28 May, 2024 by Sam desalvatore
Todd was very knowledgable and provided guidance for a couple of different legal matters.
Read more
01 Mar, 2024 by Jake flaherty
Todd Moore of Cool Springs Law Firm embodies professionalism and attention to detail. He goes above and beyond to answer questions about one's estate while processing paperwork efficiently. I highly recommend Todd and his services.
Read more
30 Jan, 2024 by Martina mcclain
13 Oct, 2024 by Ca coleman
Sandy's acumen for divorce-related financial matters is unparalleled. She is black and white without being cold. I'm glad to know I can turn to her for assistance with such questions, even years after our divorce was finalized.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Hollis calhoun
Sandy Arons was an incredible resource and helped me the entire way through my divorce. She is knowledgeable, reasonable, and unflappable. Even during tense moments, she was able to restore calm and keep everything on track. She is responsive and accessible, and if I had a question outside her purview she did the research to get me the answer. She is thorough and trusted. I could not recommend her more highly.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Tim smith
I have been involved in several successful family law mediations with Sandy. She is prepared, knowledgeable, detail oriented and always interested in the pursuit of a fair settlement. Sandy is impartial, objective, honest, reliable and intelligent. Sandy grasps the issues straightaway and understands the dynamics and complexities of the dispute. Highly recommended. Tim W. Smith, Attorney
Read more
13 Oct, 2024 by Ca coleman
Sandy's acumen for divorce-related financial matters is unparalleled. She is black and white without being cold. I'm glad to know I can turn to her for assistance with such questions, even years after our divorce was finalized.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Hollis calhoun
Sandy Arons was an incredible resource and helped me the entire way through my divorce. She is knowledgeable, reasonable, and unflappable. Even during tense moments, she was able to restore calm and keep everything on track. She is responsive and accessible, and if I had a question outside her purview she did the research to get me the answer. She is thorough and trusted. I could not recommend her more highly.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Tim smith
I have been involved in several successful family law mediations with Sandy. She is prepared, knowledgeable, detail oriented and always interested in the pursuit of a fair settlement. Sandy is impartial, objective, honest, reliable and intelligent. Sandy grasps the issues straightaway and understands the dynamics and complexities of the dispute. Highly recommended. Tim W. Smith, Attorney
Read more
13 Oct, 2024 by Ca coleman
Sandy's acumen for divorce-related financial matters is unparalleled. She is black and white without being cold. I'm glad to know I can turn to her for assistance with such questions, even years after our divorce was finalized.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Hollis calhoun
Sandy Arons was an incredible resource and helped me the entire way through my divorce. She is knowledgeable, reasonable, and unflappable. Even during tense moments, she was able to restore calm and keep everything on track. She is responsive and accessible, and if I had a question outside her purview she did the research to get me the answer. She is thorough and trusted. I could not recommend her more highly.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Tim smith
I have been involved in several successful family law mediations with Sandy. She is prepared, knowledgeable, detail oriented and always interested in the pursuit of a fair settlement. Sandy is impartial, objective, honest, reliable and intelligent. Sandy grasps the issues straightaway and understands the dynamics and complexities of the dispute. Highly recommended. Tim W. Smith, Attorney
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Noah
14 Aug, 2024 by Moises buen
Cole Law gave my family and I hope for the future. They are knowledgeable and incredibly nice. They were thorough and honest in their responses to every question.
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Deya
I recently worked with Andy Goldstein and Cole Law Group, PC, and I am very satisfied with the service I received.
From the start, Andy Goldstein demonstrated a high level of professionalism and expertise. They were always available to answer my questions and kept me informed about the progress of my case.
I especially appreciated Andy Goldstein's. Their dedication and hard work made a significant difference in the outcome of my case.
I highly recommend Andy Goldstein and his team at Cole Law Group, PC to anyone in need of legal assistance. They are knowledgeable, reliable, and truly care about their clients.
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Babz ali
Highly recommend Lisa and her team! Leah made navigating this process so much more manageable. She took the time to explain every step, answer questions promptly, and kept me informed every step of the way.
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Ashley derose
Look elsewhere!!
Read more
05 Sep, 2023 by Lindsay beebe
I had a great experience working with Lisa. She(and everyone in her office)were professional, knowledgeable, and kept me well-informed throughout the process. Their dedication to achieving a fair resolution was impressive, and I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of a divorce attorney. Thank you Lisa.
Read more
15 Nov, 2016 by Joseph
A friend recommended me to Mr.Porters office after I had my accident.
Adam was a blessing, I couldn't be happier with the service provided.
Adam is very knowledgeable about insurance law.
He understood my situation thoroughly, and took swift, direct action on my behalf.
Handled every detail with professional, courtious, honest care.
I am very grateful for having had the opportunity to work with Adam, and would readily do so again.
I highly recommend Mr. Porter's services to anyone.
Read more
27 Jul, 2015 by Derek berner
Mr. Porter helped me in negotiating a third party insurance settlement. His knowledge of insurance law is extremely thorough, he was quickly able to set my concerns at ease, and his correspondence with the third-party insurance adjuster was courteous, professional, and effective.
Read more
07 May, 2014 by Henry
Mr. Porter is a perfect blend of effective and knowledgeable. But, does not feel the need to be abrasive or ugly in order to feel that he is being effective. His knowledge of the law combined with his thorough review of the documents and facts make him effective. Tin her and herhe final key to his effective representation of his clients is his persistence.
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Babz ali
Highly recommend Lisa and her team! Leah made navigating this process so much more manageable. She took the time to explain every step, answer questions promptly, and kept me informed every step of the way.
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Ashley derose
Look elsewhere!!
Read more
05 Sep, 2023 by Lindsay beebe
I had a great experience working with Lisa. She(and everyone in her office)were professional, knowledgeable, and kept me well-informed throughout the process. Their dedication to achieving a fair resolution was impressive, and I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of a divorce attorney. Thank you Lisa.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Marie hilla
I recently had the pleasure of working with Kelli on a business dispute that, at times, felt much more emotional than professional to me. From the beginning, Kelli demonstrated not only her legal expertise but also an incredible ability to navigate the emotionally charged aspects of the case. Her professionalism, compassion, and strategic thinking helped guide me through what was an extremely draining process.
Kelli was always available when I needed her, keeping me informed and offering clear guidance at every step. She fought for my interests with skill and determination, ensuring the best possible outcome. I truly felt like I had someone in my corner who genuinely cared about both the case and my well-being.
If you need an attorney who will not only provide excellent legal representation but also be a steady and supportive ally in tough times, I highly recommend Kelli. She’s everything you want in a lawyer—strong, knowledgeable, and compassionate.
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Amber tullos
Kelli Haas was wonderful to work with and thoroughly explained things every step of the way. She ensured I understood the pros and cons to my mediation case and provided sound guidance. She is very knowledgeable and focused on providing me with best outcome while minimizing my costs. Kelli is professional and personable and provides a high touch client experience. I highly recommend her.
Read more
19 Apr, 2024 by Elizabeth elliott
Brittany is amazing to work with. She’s helped with a four year custody arrangement. She listens and calmly explains things are going to happen. She truly fights for clients.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Highly recommend working with her! I have worked with Brittany in 4 separate matters regarding my divorce, post-divorce modification and contempt. She is prepared, diligent and passionate about her clients and their cases. I was able to contact her quickly and she was aggressive in her representation.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Marie hilla
I recently had the pleasure of working with Kelli on a business dispute that, at times, felt much more emotional than professional to me. From the beginning, Kelli demonstrated not only her legal expertise but also an incredible ability to navigate the emotionally charged aspects of the case. Her professionalism, compassion, and strategic thinking helped guide me through what was an extremely draining process.
Kelli was always available when I needed her, keeping me informed and offering clear guidance at every step. She fought for my interests with skill and determination, ensuring the best possible outcome. I truly felt like I had someone in my corner who genuinely cared about both the case and my well-being.
If you need an attorney who will not only provide excellent legal representation but also be a steady and supportive ally in tough times, I highly recommend Kelli. She’s everything you want in a lawyer—strong, knowledgeable, and compassionate.
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Amber tullos
Kelli Haas was wonderful to work with and thoroughly explained things every step of the way. She ensured I understood the pros and cons to my mediation case and provided sound guidance. She is very knowledgeable and focused on providing me with best outcome while minimizing my costs. Kelli is professional and personable and provides a high touch client experience. I highly recommend her.
Read more
22 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Wilkinson to represent me in a disputed probate case. He failed to take actions I directed him to take ,and instead spent an inordinate amount of time on insignificant issues, resulting in unnecessary hourly charges for him and the opposing attorney. He failed to present pertinent evidence about appeals court rulings on the ownership of a co-owned bank checking account, resulting in me losing over $14,000. His explanation for refusing to file one motion I directed him to file was that he had other cases before the same judge and was not going to file anything on my behalf that would make the judge angry. He then filed a motion to withdraw, leaving me without representation during a critical phase of the hearings.
Read 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 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.
