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20 Aug, 2024 by Dee oakes
I can’t say Thank You enough to this law firm and Eric Winnert! We live approximately 5 hours from the office and Eric came to our home to get the much needed paperwork signed by my very ill spouse for a mesothelioma law suit. Poor man had to drive through the snow belt in February just to make sure we got what was needed before anything happened. Whenever I have questions and need to contact him, he is always there to give me answers. He has walked me step by step through every part of the process as my spouse was terminal and passed. Even when I haven’t bothered him in awhile, he will shoot me a text with any needed updates on our case! He’s very caring, empathetic , and personable with his clients and their family! No matter what we threw at him he always had a smile and a chuckle while maintaining his professionalism! Great Job Eric and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you have done and continue to do for me.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Mike c
Calling them was best decision I ever made from the ladies who answer the phone to Karen who handled my cases could not be happier with my representation
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20 Jul, 2024 by Sondra l. king
I became a client of Hurwitz Whitcher & Malloy in November of 2020 due to injuries I sustained transporting equipment to Work from Home during the pandemic on April 7, 2020. I already have a disability, born missing my left limb & no joint in my right thumb. After trying to fight compensation on my own, they consistently denied every procedure that was being requested to get me back to work, my doctor’s office suggested that I get a lawyer.
I was referred Hurwitz Whitcher & Malloy by a friend. My first contact was Patricia Hagerty, my anxiety was so high that I couldn’t even complete a sentence. I felt crazy, scared & embarrassed. She took my information & said someone would get back to me. She also, assured me that everything would be ok, try to relax & not think about his.
Karen Small handled my case & she kept me up to date on the process step by step. If there was something I did not understand, she would explain until I did. After hard work & dedication, delays, setbacks, we won July 2024.
I had trouble getting my medications, so I spoke with Sam Firestein concerning this matter. Within an hour, the issues were resolved & he followed the next week up to make sure I received the medication as scheduled & that everything was ok.
Kate Malloy handled Social Security on my behalf, job well-done.
From my first encounter with your firm until today, I felt like the team cared. I am entirely satisfied with the way this firm has treated me, they showed compassion, cares, concerns & handled every aspect of my case in a personal & professional manner. This whole process was confusing & at times I was very upset, sick in my mind & body, but this firm saved the day. Sometimes thank you doesn’t seem to be enough, but I truly thank you for all you have done for me. Thank you for assisting me through this plight over the past 4 years of my life & in the future. I was assured that I was with the best compensation attorneys & that is a true statement.
I highly recommend this firm, if you are an injured worker, don’t try to fight them alone, don’t hesitate to contact Hurwitz, Whitcher & Malloy, they helped me every step of the way, & they’ll take care of you too. I am indeed a satisfied client; I feel like I’m a part of the family.
Sondra L King
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20 Aug, 2024 by Dee oakes
I can’t say Thank You enough to this law firm and Eric Winnert! We live approximately 5 hours from the office and Eric came to our home to get the much needed paperwork signed by my very ill spouse for a mesothelioma law suit. Poor man had to drive through the snow belt in February just to make sure we got what was needed before anything happened. Whenever I have questions and need to contact him, he is always there to give me answers. He has walked me step by step through every part of the process as my spouse was terminal and passed. Even when I haven’t bothered him in awhile, he will shoot me a text with any needed updates on our case! He’s very caring, empathetic , and personable with his clients and their family! No matter what we threw at him he always had a smile and a chuckle while maintaining his professionalism! Great Job Eric and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you have done and continue to do for me.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Mike c
Calling them was best decision I ever made from the ladies who answer the phone to Karen who handled my cases could not be happier with my representation
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20 Jul, 2024 by Sondra l. king
I became a client of Hurwitz Whitcher & Malloy in November of 2020 due to injuries I sustained transporting equipment to Work from Home during the pandemic on April 7, 2020. I already have a disability, born missing my left limb & no joint in my right thumb. After trying to fight compensation on my own, they consistently denied every procedure that was being requested to get me back to work, my doctor’s office suggested that I get a lawyer.
I was referred Hurwitz Whitcher & Malloy by a friend. My first contact was Patricia Hagerty, my anxiety was so high that I couldn’t even complete a sentence. I felt crazy, scared & embarrassed. She took my information & said someone would get back to me. She also, assured me that everything would be ok, try to relax & not think about his.
Karen Small handled my case & she kept me up to date on the process step by step. If there was something I did not understand, she would explain until I did. After hard work & dedication, delays, setbacks, we won July 2024.
I had trouble getting my medications, so I spoke with Sam Firestein concerning this matter. Within an hour, the issues were resolved & he followed the next week up to make sure I received the medication as scheduled & that everything was ok.
Kate Malloy handled Social Security on my behalf, job well-done.
From my first encounter with your firm until today, I felt like the team cared. I am entirely satisfied with the way this firm has treated me, they showed compassion, cares, concerns & handled every aspect of my case in a personal & professional manner. This whole process was confusing & at times I was very upset, sick in my mind & body, but this firm saved the day. Sometimes thank you doesn’t seem to be enough, but I truly thank you for all you have done for me. Thank you for assisting me through this plight over the past 4 years of my life & in the future. I was assured that I was with the best compensation attorneys & that is a true statement.
I highly recommend this firm, if you are an injured worker, don’t try to fight them alone, don’t hesitate to contact Hurwitz, Whitcher & Malloy, they helped me every step of the way, & they’ll take care of you too. I am indeed a satisfied client; I feel like I’m a part of the family.
Sondra L King
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26 Dec, 2022 by William harris
One of the The best lawyers that I have ever came about. Highly recommend it highly professional.
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27 Nov, 2021 by Mike bogulski
08 Nov, 2021 by Luis baez
Frank is the best attorney in the city of Buffalo! He's my Friend and we gotten excellent results from all of our cases!!
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26 Dec, 2022 by William harris
One of the The best lawyers that I have ever came about. Highly recommend it highly professional.
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27 Nov, 2021 by Mike bogulski
08 Nov, 2021 by Luis baez
Frank is the best attorney in the city of Buffalo! He's my Friend and we gotten excellent results from all of our cases!!
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07 Aug, 2024 by Lovey goodwin
18 Jan, 2024 by Adrienne zastrow (farm girl)
Received this legal firm information from my employers EAP program. Office staff was friendly and kind. Scheduled quickly for an appointment, office ended up closed presumably for snow, I was able to call and make another phone consultation for later in the same week. Mr. Friedman was knowledgeable and understanding of our situation. One area that we need assistance with he is not able to address himself however will have us set up with his colleague to discuss this matter. Thank you for your time and quick response.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Kim russell
10 Sep, 2024 by Dan acker
I had the worst experience with Arthur at this firm, who despite several phone calls and emails never once responded to me regarding his client's case. I would be wary to hire any firm that handles financial affairs of their clients this way.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Rizwan alam
Very professional and great person
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28 Aug, 2021 by William duffy
Easy to find and park.Took care of our business quickly and carefully.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Lisa walter
My uncle passed away and I was his sole heir and executor. I had to take care of everything and it was so overwhelming. Peter McGrath was fantastic, he gave me so much help, answered every question I had (he was my uncle’s lawyer), and wouldn’t take a penny from me. I could never have fulfilled my executor’s duties without him. I can’t express how grateful I am. He’s a top notch attorney and a truly compassionate and wonderful human being.
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12 Nov, 2023 by Kathy riexinger
Reasonable. Prompt & efficient. Responsive. Knowledgeable. Kind, friendly, down to earth.
Best "lawyer" experience I've ever had or could ever hope for! Highly recommend.
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01 Jun, 2023 by Derrick piosca
Evictions can already be frustrating but running to a lawyer to help and not getting the help was even more frustrating. Tenant’s case was pending from the beginning to waiting on government assistance and that being said in the state of New York the process can’t move along as quickly as you would want. But as far as this attorney, it was not the best experience at all. Took so long with responses and even worse, never got any responses after awhile. Emailed, called and text but wouldn’t get any reply for days. One of the many examples was getting a reply about 2 weeks later that the hearing was adjourned and/or set for another date due to the tenant’s pending case with ERAP. With that same text he wanted an update but then sent an email and never heard back from him. Not sure what I did or my case wasn’t big enough to accept and cash in but good luck to anyone who is willing to choose this firm to work with.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Aleksandr frolov
I have worked with Kristina Ramos(attorney) and Jocelyn (paralegal) on a closing. Prompt communication, clear guidance through the process, and no delays. 10/10, would work with them again
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12 Mar, 2024 by Ron and renee bellamy
06 Feb, 2024 by Frank coheley
18 Jun, 2024 by Raj raju
Nelson Torre is a lawyer who assisted me with a traffic ticket for running a STOP sign, which was connected to an accident. His fees were reasonable, and he was readily available to discuss my case. If he wasn't available, his associate would gather all the necessary details and provide assistance. Nelson responded to my emails promptly and kept his word throughout the process. Thanks to his efforts, my case was dismissed as he had promised.
Here’s a bit more about my experience: When I first received the ticket, I was worried about the potential consequences, especially since an accident was involved. I reached out to Nelson, and he immediately put me at ease with his professional yet approachable demeanor. He carefully explained the steps we needed to take and reassured me that he would handle everything. True to his word, he stayed in constant communication, updating me on the progress and responding to any questions I had without delay. Even when he was busy, his associate was there to help, ensuring that no detail was overlooked. In the end, Nelson’s expertise and dedication resulted in the dismissal of my case, and I couldn’t be more grateful for his support.
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16 May, 2024 by Shawn miller
Excellent representation, kept his word start to finish and kept me updated on my case. I highly recommend Nelson his experience and expertise was key.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Brenyaliz mercado
18 Jun, 2024 by Raj raju
Nelson Torre is a lawyer who assisted me with a traffic ticket for running a STOP sign, which was connected to an accident. His fees were reasonable, and he was readily available to discuss my case. If he wasn't available, his associate would gather all the necessary details and provide assistance. Nelson responded to my emails promptly and kept his word throughout the process. Thanks to his efforts, my case was dismissed as he had promised.
Here’s a bit more about my experience: When I first received the ticket, I was worried about the potential consequences, especially since an accident was involved. I reached out to Nelson, and he immediately put me at ease with his professional yet approachable demeanor. He carefully explained the steps we needed to take and reassured me that he would handle everything. True to his word, he stayed in constant communication, updating me on the progress and responding to any questions I had without delay. Even when he was busy, his associate was there to help, ensuring that no detail was overlooked. In the end, Nelson’s expertise and dedication resulted in the dismissal of my case, and I couldn’t be more grateful for his support.
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16 May, 2024 by Shawn miller
Excellent representation, kept his word start to finish and kept me updated on my case. I highly recommend Nelson his experience and expertise was key.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Brenyaliz mercado
07 Aug, 2024 by Lovey goodwin
18 Jan, 2024 by Adrienne zastrow (farm girl)
Received this legal firm information from my employers EAP program. Office staff was friendly and kind. Scheduled quickly for an appointment, office ended up closed presumably for snow, I was able to call and make another phone consultation for later in the same week. Mr. Friedman was knowledgeable and understanding of our situation. One area that we need assistance with he is not able to address himself however will have us set up with his colleague to discuss this matter. Thank you for your time and quick response.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Kim russell
07 Aug, 2024 by Lovey goodwin
18 Jan, 2024 by Adrienne zastrow (farm girl)
Received this legal firm information from my employers EAP program. Office staff was friendly and kind. Scheduled quickly for an appointment, office ended up closed presumably for snow, I was able to call and make another phone consultation for later in the same week. Mr. Friedman was knowledgeable and understanding of our situation. One area that we need assistance with he is not able to address himself however will have us set up with his colleague to discuss this matter. Thank you for your time and quick response.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Kim russell
07 Aug, 2024 by Lovey goodwin
18 Jan, 2024 by Adrienne zastrow (farm girl)
Received this legal firm information from my employers EAP program. Office staff was friendly and kind. Scheduled quickly for an appointment, office ended up closed presumably for snow, I was able to call and make another phone consultation for later in the same week. Mr. Friedman was knowledgeable and understanding of our situation. One area that we need assistance with he is not able to address himself however will have us set up with his colleague to discuss this matter. Thank you for your time and quick response.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Kim russell
15 Sep, 2024 by Amanda phillips
Thomas Hewner does not look out for his clients. Best interest.
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04 Aug, 2024 by Edward osiecki
I have Vivian Roche for my workers comp case, she fought for me when no one else would. She is a good person with integrity and excellent attorney.
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27 Jul, 2024 by Earl altheide
This law firm is a joke and does not return calls. I have left messages three times each for Tom Hewner and Keith Rosso and neither has ever returned my call. I have even left additional messages with their secretary and none of my calls get returned.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Dan acker
I had the worst experience with Arthur at this firm, who despite several phone calls and emails never once responded to me regarding his client's case. I would be wary to hire any firm that handles financial affairs of their clients this way.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Rizwan alam
Very professional and great person
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28 Aug, 2021 by William duffy
Easy to find and park.Took care of our business quickly and carefully.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Lovey goodwin
18 Jan, 2024 by Adrienne zastrow (farm girl)
Received this legal firm information from my employers EAP program. Office staff was friendly and kind. Scheduled quickly for an appointment, office ended up closed presumably for snow, I was able to call and make another phone consultation for later in the same week. Mr. Friedman was knowledgeable and understanding of our situation. One area that we need assistance with he is not able to address himself however will have us set up with his colleague to discuss this matter. Thank you for your time and quick response.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Kim russell
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
20 Jun, 2024 by Tyler jones
Ms vesper was assigned to my custody case it was the most unpleasant experience I could have imagined. Guessing her law degree came through education connection.
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09 May, 2024 by Jason
She is horrendously unable to respond in the timely manner. If you need a divorce and you want it done in the timely fashion this is the worst person you could possibly choose
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08 Jan, 2024 by S w
06 Mar, 2024 by Patty y-s
I'd rate higher if it was an option. Maureen is always professional, very knowledgeable, compassionate, timely, friendly, and successful!
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01 Sep, 2023 by John knope
03 Nov, 2022 by Cassie brenner
Retireing soon ....don't waste your time
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13 Jan, 2024 by Kenji saito
I’m embarrassed about it, but I was a victim of scam. so I asked for advice. Even though I’ve given them the contact information of the scammer’s email address and telephone number, they never contacted the scammer. I was still receiving several emails and texts from the scammer, but the attorney said just ignore it. Later, I received letter from the attorney regarding my case. It was written my case was closed. What’s more, it dated one months before I received the letter!! Nothing was resolved in the end.
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07 Jan, 2024 by Caralyn mirand
05 Jan, 2024 by Brian sarama
25 Jul, 2021 by Prem chand
She helped me with my case for ticket on overspend. I would recommend her as used to respond promptly to my questions. Only thing is this that, bit expensive for me based on level of case. But she is professional and reliable.
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20 Jul, 2021 by Julia domiano
Amy handled a few issues for my family and was also very prompt, courteous and professional and was able to negotiate fair outcomes in all instances. I highly recommend her.
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28 May, 2021 by Marissa franklin
My experience with Amy was wonderful, she was the only public defender I’ve had out of the 3 I’ve had that has genuinely cared about me, showed empathy, compassion, and went out of her way on multiple occasions to ensure I was being treated with the highest dignity and respect through the courts. She was always incredibly responsive, supportive and encouraging for me. As a public defender, she can only do so much, I had to put in work and do my part to ensure my case could be completed & closed successfully, and even through the mistakes I would make in my time with her, she never gave up hope in me and always let me know she would help me through anything as-long as I kept trying.
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14 Sep, 2022 by Rachael
Tony was absolutely exceptional to work with throughout my divorce. From the moment I met him he immediately put my mind at ease. A divorce is never easy but he helped the process go smoothly and kept everything on track. He has extensive knowledge and was very informative. I would recommend him a million times over. Thank you again for everything you did for my children and I.
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25 Jul, 2021 by Prem chand
She helped me with my case for ticket on overspend. I would recommend her as used to respond promptly to my questions. Only thing is this that, bit expensive for me based on level of case. But she is professional and reliable.
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20 Jul, 2021 by Julia domiano
Amy handled a few issues for my family and was also very prompt, courteous and professional and was able to negotiate fair outcomes in all instances. I highly recommend her.
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27 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Jeff took our very sensitive family law case and assured us he could properly represent me, but it was clearly out of his scope . Jeff doesn't make clients a priority, never communicated and would get upset when I called him. He made a bad experience absolutely horrible, best yet in 2 months not one thing got resolved, besides a lunch with the opposing attorney. Thank god for Bob Vario, resolved our issue to a favorable outcome and at a reasonable and more than worthwhile price.
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31 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Jeff seems to be a very worked up individual. I don't know if he has too many cases to deal with or just does not work well under pressure. Jeff seems to be knowledgeable enough in the field, but he did not work well with me as a client. He wouldn't respond when I needed him, but if he needed something he would call and scream over the phone that he needed me to do something that very minute. For these reasons I was assigned to another attorney, but after that attorney left the firm I was stuck again with Jeff. Jeff never told me that he left the firm as well months later and he was still treating me like his client. After his old firm notified me of this we ceased all communication with him for good. Would never want someone who is seeking real help to go through this and therefore he is getting a poor review.
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06 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I had some legal issues and was recommended to Jeffery. He handled everything on a timely matter and was very thorough. I would strongly recommend his services.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jimmy santos
I have no idea what happened I was called in sat down and this lady without hesitation tells me that a judge don't care the new laws don't help tenants. I'm being evicted because I refuse to do yard work for free after 15 years so he wants me out. I refused the eviction notice what is happening
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03 Jul, 2024 by Elizabeth reger
This attorney office is God awful. They support the other side and are against low income individuals. They are obviously an organization that supports the real estate market and contributes to putting people on benefits in the street. Sharon, a lawyer there lied and said Good Cause Eviction Law wasn't good across NYS and went against Assemblyman Pat Burke's office. I called to make sure my illegal, discriminatory eviction case was closed, and at first told me it was closed, then proceeded to give me 5 outcomes and go against Pat Burke's office and NYS Division of Human Rights Bronx, NY. She then told me I supposedly had no understanding of the Good Cause Eviction Law. Sharon ought to be fired and get a job at something she is good at, not law.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Jean klimczyk
Best landlord/tenant defense. My problems started when I was admitted to the hospitsl for six
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04 Sep, 2024 by Michael davidson
This firm makes the impossible possible
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12 Sep, 2023 by Tim m
Erin Bahn was a pleasure to work with in regards to my US citizenship needs. She was extremely clear on what to expect, very thorough with the information she provided and was extremely friendly.
I've dealt with many law firms in the past and my experience with Erin and Kavinoky Cook really stood out and deserved to be sharedđź‘Ś
Thank you Erin!
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01 Aug, 2021 by Linda ferraro
20 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
If I could select zero stars, I would. My spouse had used Ms. Bestine in a previous court matter, working with her for approximately a year on a very complex case. Fast forward 6 years later, we contacted Ms. Bestine with a major update via email at the beginning of March, explaining that we would need to have a consult prior to our court date at the end of March. She sent a very snarky response stating that she did not have time to deal with this and that she does not advise over email, which she previously did in November when we had a question regarding our rights. My spouse called Ms. Bestine's office, and was then asked who he was and his phone number, and stated that he would get a call back. Fast forward three weeks, we still had not received a call. We call her office today, 3/20, and are told that she would like to schedule an in-office consultation, which we live two hours away and are now on a time crunch due to the next court date being fairly soon. Ms. Bestine's schedule does not allow any availability for an in-office consultation and we are now left scrambling to find someone to provide us a consultation prior to this court date. Steer clear of Ms. Bestine if you'd like a reliable, professional, and stable attorney.
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07 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Do not hire this person and save yourself a lot of heartache and money…She did not keep me informed, she was disrespectful, rude, condescending and seemed to purposefully drag things out when our divorce should have been a quicker process. As I read in other reviews, she seemed to be working for the other side as evidenced by her actions and was against me throughout the entire process…she never spoke to me as her client but as someone substandard to her nor did she prepare me for anything to come so I would know what to expect, then she would get angry with me for not knowing something …it seemed that I was telling her what to do at times…it was the most horrible experience
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28 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I wish I had read the other reviews before hiring Ms. Bestine. Thankfully, I only had a couple of encounters with her before determining that she was not the right attorney for me. I saw her have sudden emotional outbursts that are unbecoming to an attorney. For example, she would start screaming "you are going to be f*** up by ..." without explaining her reasoning or the type of "f*** up" that she was referring to. I cannot say much about the extent of her knowledge or her ability to represent a client in court because I switched to a very competent lawyer before she could do any damage.
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23 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
My experience with Mr. Panasci left me feeling alone and insulted and frustrated.
Mr. Panasci took on my case, called me for our first conversation without having looked over case from the previous attorney, then he became defensive and argumentative when I became frustrated at the idea that I had to explain my story all over again.
He showed no sympathy for the fact that I did not know my previous attorney, Melissa Horvatits, had dropped my case without a word to me.
Mr. Panasci insisted I tell him personal health information, stating it may be relevant to my case. I had to defend my personal health decisions to him only to have him angrily insist a few moments later that no personal information has any relevance to my case.
He wanted me to explain my health issues but was not at all interested in hearing anything else I had to say about the dynamics of my abusive marriage and he wanted me just shut up, do what he says and proceed with the divorce after having built nothing but a lack of trust in only a few minutes of our first meeting.
Mr. Panasci was insolent and condescending.
Mr. Panasci was short tempered, defensive and very angry at the notion that I want to express my concerns over my divorce and it's effects on my future.
I hung the phone up feeling humiliated and alone, just like my husband always makes me feel when I try to communicate with his narcissism.
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11 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I found Mr. Sperrazza to be completely incompetent. He made a very basic error regarding the age of support termination and even after I pointed out his error he still filed it with county wrong. After all I paid to have him create that document he did not even read it which I know because he himself stated it was an error. Then after the fact I brought this issue to his attention and he did not fix and I have had to deal with it. The whole thing was a disgrace.
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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:
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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.
