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22 Jan, 2021 by D
Thomas Urquidez provided a very helpful consultation that was very honest and straightforward.
He has compassion, integrity, and great expertise.
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03 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Full disclosure - this is the first time I’ve ever felt the need to write an online review.
If you’re like me, odds are you’ll hopefully never need an attorney (knock on wood). But if for whatever reason you do, meet with Mr. Urquidez. He’s honest, trustworthy, puts the client’s interests first, is accommodative to your schedule, and just overall easy to work with. He’s also a great listener who understands the legal issues at play when you may not know exactly how to articulate the things you need to clarify when speaking to an attorney. You won’t regret making him your first phone call if you need an attorney.
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05 Dec, 2012 by Robin
I found Mr. Urquidez to be very knowledgable and always ready to answer my questions. His confidence in handling my case helped to relieve the anxiety I was feeling with this being my first time needing to hire a lawyer. His attention to detail and knowledge of my case and the law helped to bring a swift resolution to what could have been a very lengthy and ugly battle.
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15 May, 2018 by Thomas
I retained Bill after he was highly recommended by another attorney who was conflicted out of representing me. Bill handled my multi-year case with great dexterity and thoughtfulness. I spoke with 10-12 attorneys about my case, and given the complexity and the level of resources that were required, it was not easy to identify suitable counsel. It is important to note that what separated Bill from numerous other attorneys was his business judgment and instincts. So many times my ego would have led me into making a flawed business decision, and Bill was constantly having to re-orient me to what was ultimately in my best interests. Usually, it wasn't until much later when I realized how "on point" Bill's analysis was. He is very diligent and focused, but again, his business judgment was the clear differentiator. Finally, being able to manage a myriad of issues and managing a number of nuances was not easy, but Bill remained well informed and well prepared to represent my best interests. I would not hesitate hiring Bill in the future, and would highly recommend him to anyone seeking to identify strong counsel to represent his/her best interest. Thank you, Bill!!!
Best,
Thomas
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28 Aug, 2017 by Sondra
Bill probably didn't realize what he was getting into when it came time to help me and my partner do the final negotiation, contracts and close of selling our video production business. Neither did we, frankly, but having Bill on our side made all the difference. He kept us from making mistakes and yet kept the deal on track when it seemed likely not to happen. Also, happens to be fun to work with. A bonus! Great guy!
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24 Jun, 2015 by Zachary
Bill is a fantastic attorney. He's very strategic, firm but fair, and gets deals done in his clients best interest. He's also a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Bill.
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10 Mar, 2014 by Kenneth
Anyone that has worked with a law firm knows that the trust factor is #1. Being kept in the loop about my issues at all times made me much more comfortable and also aware that my case was always being watched and looked after........ not always the situation with other firms I have had dealings with.
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10 Mar, 2014 by Charles
Mike Richardson is one of the most talented attorneys I know. His creativity and analytic skills are outstanding. Perhaps his best qualities would be considered being a great communicator, having a razor sharp intellect, a warm sense of humor, and being incredibly focused on getting the job done for his client. Mike is someone I admire, trust, and heartily recommend.
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04 Mar, 2014 by Worth
I have used Micheal Richardson's firm to represent me as both a defendant and plaintiff'. Micheal and his firm, performed exceptionally well in both capacities. Michael came up to speed very quickly and I was impressed by his thorough understanding of my industry. He also presented me with several options for each case, giving me a projected timeline, likelihood of each potential outcome, projected legal fees and potential liabilities. He presented all the options and allowed me to choose the best course if action. Michael is aggressive, but not reckless, and it is clear that his peers recognized his excellence. If you are on the apposing side of a case be prepared to work your butt off trying to keep up with Michael. I will continue to use Micheal and his firm.
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16 Oct, 2016 by Robert
Grant prepared a great rebuttal letter to a demand for compensation letter. Hopefully this did the trick and it is finished.
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10 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Grant provided steady and sound advice through a very difficult negotiation. Grant was able to quickly grasp the complexities of the situation.
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07 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Grant was very open and listened to all my questions and concerns. He was able to take care of my needs in a very timely matter. These things were extremely important to me. I would highly recommend him.
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06 May, 2021 by Karel
Mr. Jennings was referred by a family friend...as one of the best employment attorneys in Dallas...! I have to say I fully concur...While my case is very challenging, Jim jumped in to tackle it...He & his staff were expedient, professional, supportive and assertive to my cause...!!
I would highly recommend Jim Jennings to any one in need of his counsel...!!
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05 Jul, 2020 by Lorentz
Mr. Jennings and his team was amazing. The were quick and on top of everything. He explained everything and made sure I agreed with every step made.
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05 Mar, 2018 by Dawn
Retaining an attorney against my company is nothing that I dreamed I would need to do and Mr. Jennings has been just wonderful. This is just the beginning of my case but he reached out to me on a Saturday, jumped in and started immediately and made me feel at ease. I could not be more pleased, so far I would highly recommend him.
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01 Dec, 2010 by Carece
As a Wealth Advisor I help my clients find good legal advice and representation for their family and family businesses. In each case Andy has gone above and beyond what was expected by helping them sort through the legal aspects to make the best decisions for their family and businesses. He is professional in every aspect and genuinely responsive to the questions and concerns of the clients.
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11 Sep, 2010 by Kim
With as many attorneys as I have encountered, Andy Nikolopoulos stands far above the pack. His ethical, professional, yet sensitive approach to my highly emotional and explosive probate case, helped me through a most difficult period in my life. Thanks to Andy's knowledge and skills, even at an early stage of his career, we won our case hands down. To this day I can call Andy with questions regarding that case and he is there for us. I will go back to Andy without hesitation; I consider him my attorney for life.
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10 Aug, 2010 by Salil
I have used Andy on a few business litigation matters and he has always represented me to the fullest and kept my business objectives in mind. I highly endorse him for anyone in need of a litigation attorney.
He maintains an upbeat attitude, even during serious moments.
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15 Oct, 2023 by Lance rhodes
Darryl and his staff are very knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.
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04 Aug, 2022 by John cornwell
21 Jun, 2021 by James fitzpatrick
professional, knowledgeable and well studied in their field.
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07 Nov, 2013 by Post your review anonymously
John Carney team provided excellent service, I was going through a military divorce. The team walked me through every step. I recommend this firm to any military personnel going through a divorce.
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24 Jan, 2013 by Janice
The whole divorce process knocked the wind out of me but the family law team at Carney & Associates guided me each step of the way and achieved for me what I knew I deserved and what was fair for both of us and our children.
Carney’s fees are very reasonable and their work exceptional. I highly recommend this group of attorneys.
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24 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
John and his outstanding team have handled divorce, family, real estate and federal cases for me. He is an excellent strategist and brilliant thinker. He is relentless and does not give up until he wins. And win he does, consistently.
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05 Jan, 2024 by Ryan hughes
19 Jun, 2023 by Marcus norman
As an Experienced Attorney and Mediator Gary Berman is able to identify, highlight and resolve the many issues arising in complex litigation cases. If you want the the highest probability of a successful resolution then Gary is the Mediator you want!!!
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24 Aug, 2021 by Judy emmett
05 Jan, 2024 by Ryan hughes
19 Jun, 2023 by Marcus norman
As an Experienced Attorney and Mediator Gary Berman is able to identify, highlight and resolve the many issues arising in complex litigation cases. If you want the the highest probability of a successful resolution then Gary is the Mediator you want!!!
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24 Aug, 2021 by Judy emmett
17 Jul, 2012 by Patty
Shep handled a probate case for me and did an outstanding job! He is an excellent stategist and a very caring person. I highly recommend Shep. He is a great attorney.
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28 Jul, 2010 by Imad
Mr. Sands helped me with some problems that i faced in my business, collecting from customers and overall business advises how to deal with customers regarding getting my money back.
Reasonable prices for his service.
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17 Jul, 2010 by Paul
He defended me against the bureaucracy of the city. Without his assistance, the city would have railroaded me to a big fine. If I ever needed someone in my corner to stand up for my rights, I would want him on my side.
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12 Sep, 2014 by Kelly
Mrs. Mckeon did an excellent job for us. We have used her several times now and are always very satisfied with her service. She always proves to be very knowledgeable and keeps us well informed. There is no doubt she has her clients best interest at heart.
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02 Sep, 2014 by George
Ms McKeon is an excellent attorney who works quite diligently, and strives to represent her clients at the highest level. Throughout the process Ms McKeon kept me informed and was responsive to my many, many calls. I highly recommend her if you are searching for a lawyer that takes the time to effectively plan a proper defense strategy. It's refreshing to come across an attorney with such brilliance and honesty.
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23 Apr, 2014 by Ryan
Tressie McKeon is a superb attorney. I used Tressie in the past for some personal matters and she was so effective, I sent most of my company's legal work to her. She is very knowledgeable and gets the job done without driving up costs. I trust her work so much, I have referred many of my friends and business clients to Tressie. I highly recommend her.
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20 Jan, 2016 by Laura
My daughter was falsely accused of a theft crime at Walmart where she was employed. She had only been there a couple of weeks. A professional scam artist came thru her line and ended up stealing a large sum of money during her scheme. I went to an attorney I had known since I was 19 years old. He had his “associate” work on the case. For over a year, all we ever got was “make a plea.” I personally researched the case, found the woman who scammed my daughter, and discovered she (the scammer) had done the same thing previously and after the accusation against my 19 year old daughter. I made a notebook complete with her alias names, her other cases and charges all over the country for doing the same thing she did to my child. I tried to get “associate” to look at the notebook but he was mad because my daughter refused to plead guilty to something she had not done. Associate was sent on his way by a very smart judge, a new attorney was appointed to handle the matter and a new chance for someone to hear the truth of my daughter’s case. When it was turned over to this attorney, not one minute did I worry. That is all I had done since her arrest.
Today I received a text message from attorney BRUCE KAYE. The case against my daughter had been dismissed. He took the information to the prosecutor and she saw what we all already knew. My daughter was innocent.
BRUCE KAYE is one of the best lawyers I have ever dealt with. He listened, he investigated and he sought the TRUTH! My kid wasn’t a number to him, or just a case, she was an innocent 19 year old criminal justice student who planned on being a police officer and he did what had to be done to prove her innocence. Thank you Mr. Kaye.
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01 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I was appointed Bruce from the court and from the start he was very optimistic and professional even when looking at over whelming odds to represent me. He remained in constant contact with me and answered every question, never treating me or my situation like a burden. Through the whole time he kept my spirits up and actually achieved the impossible, giving me the best possible second chance. Thank you so much Bruce, I sincerely recommend for any and all of your representation needs.
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09 Nov, 2015 by Grace
Mr. Kaye,
I thank you so much for your help and personal attention as the defense attorney for my grandson. Even though you were court appointed, your service to us was very professional and personable. You went the extra mile to help us. You kept in contact with me and updated on all court proceedings and you were there in all court proceeding. Your kindness and consideration will never be forgotten. At a time when lots of people in the system are treated like a "number', you treated working with us with great respect and seriousness. Financially, we will never be able to repay you, but you will always be remember as an awesome lawyer in our book and we recommend you highly.
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28 Apr, 2022 by Daniel little
Austin Champion, Mark Torian and Andrew Gray are amazing attorneys that have represented me for several years of a hard fought battle against a corporate lawsuit to destroy us. These men fought for the Little guy and I would highly recommend them to you as well!
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14 Jan, 2022 by Cameron
My experience with Champion, LLP can only be described as Remarkable. Authentic, considerate, direct, realistic, and did not waste any time to take action. I couldn’t have asked for better representation and counsel.
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02 Feb, 2019 by Shelley miller clayton
28 Apr, 2022 by Daniel little
Austin Champion, Mark Torian and Andrew Gray are amazing attorneys that have represented me for several years of a hard fought battle against a corporate lawsuit to destroy us. These men fought for the Little guy and I would highly recommend them to you as well!
Read more
14 Jan, 2022 by Cameron
My experience with Champion, LLP can only be described as Remarkable. Authentic, considerate, direct, realistic, and did not waste any time to take action. I couldn’t have asked for better representation and counsel.
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02 Feb, 2019 by Shelley miller clayton
28 Apr, 2022 by Daniel little
Austin Champion, Mark Torian and Andrew Gray are amazing attorneys that have represented me for several years of a hard fought battle against a corporate lawsuit to destroy us. These men fought for the Little guy and I would highly recommend them to you as well!
Read more
14 Jan, 2022 by Cameron
My experience with Champion, LLP can only be described as Remarkable. Authentic, considerate, direct, realistic, and did not waste any time to take action. I couldn’t have asked for better representation and counsel.
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02 Feb, 2019 by Shelley miller clayton
22 Sep, 2020 by Trey austin
Scott Chase, with Farrow-Gillespie Heath Witter, is one of the best attorneys we have ever worked with. He is clear and concise in his communication, he does not do busy work just to charge you billable hours, what you see is what you get! I would recommend this firm to anyone.
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21 Sep, 2020 by Ashley carter
I have been working with this company for a few years now and they are truly professional. Scott Chase has been very helpful for me and answers all of my questions. I recommend this law firm over any other firm in the area!
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30 Aug, 2020 by Annaliese peterson
This is an excellent firm that has been a constant source of support, professionalism, and agility to adapt to our business needs, from long-term strategic to short-term urgent support. I have also used them for a very broad range of legal services, and can speak to the high degree of performance and delivery across the board in all facets. Highly suggest you make FGHW a partner in your business' needs.
Read more
28 Apr, 2022 by Daniel little
Austin Champion, Mark Torian and Andrew Gray are amazing attorneys that have represented me for several years of a hard fought battle against a corporate lawsuit to destroy us. These men fought for the Little guy and I would highly recommend them to you as well!
Read more
14 Jan, 2022 by Cameron
My experience with Champion, LLP can only be described as Remarkable. Authentic, considerate, direct, realistic, and did not waste any time to take action. I couldn’t have asked for better representation and counsel.
Read more
02 Feb, 2019 by Shelley miller clayton
22 Sep, 2020 by Trey austin
Scott Chase, with Farrow-Gillespie Heath Witter, is one of the best attorneys we have ever worked with. He is clear and concise in his communication, he does not do busy work just to charge you billable hours, what you see is what you get! I would recommend this firm to anyone.
Read more
21 Sep, 2020 by Ashley carter
I have been working with this company for a few years now and they are truly professional. Scott Chase has been very helpful for me and answers all of my questions. I recommend this law firm over any other firm in the area!
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30 Aug, 2020 by Annaliese peterson
This is an excellent firm that has been a constant source of support, professionalism, and agility to adapt to our business needs, from long-term strategic to short-term urgent support. I have also used them for a very broad range of legal services, and can speak to the high degree of performance and delivery across the board in all facets. Highly suggest you make FGHW a partner in your business' needs.
Read more
28 Apr, 2022 by Daniel little
Austin Champion, Mark Torian and Andrew Gray are amazing attorneys that have represented me for several years of a hard fought battle against a corporate lawsuit to destroy us. These men fought for the Little guy and I would highly recommend them to you as well!
Read more
14 Jan, 2022 by Cameron
My experience with Champion, LLP can only be described as Remarkable. Authentic, considerate, direct, realistic, and did not waste any time to take action. I couldn’t have asked for better representation and counsel.
Read more
02 Feb, 2019 by Shelley miller clayton
22 Sep, 2020 by Trey austin
Scott Chase, with Farrow-Gillespie Heath Witter, is one of the best attorneys we have ever worked with. He is clear and concise in his communication, he does not do busy work just to charge you billable hours, what you see is what you get! I would recommend this firm to anyone.
Read more
21 Sep, 2020 by Ashley carter
I have been working with this company for a few years now and they are truly professional. Scott Chase has been very helpful for me and answers all of my questions. I recommend this law firm over any other firm in the area!
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30 Aug, 2020 by Annaliese peterson
This is an excellent firm that has been a constant source of support, professionalism, and agility to adapt to our business needs, from long-term strategic to short-term urgent support. I have also used them for a very broad range of legal services, and can speak to the high degree of performance and delivery across the board in all facets. Highly suggest you make FGHW a partner in your business' needs.
Read more
22 Sep, 2020 by Trey austin
Scott Chase, with Farrow-Gillespie Heath Witter, is one of the best attorneys we have ever worked with. He is clear and concise in his communication, he does not do busy work just to charge you billable hours, what you see is what you get! I would recommend this firm to anyone.
Read more
21 Sep, 2020 by Ashley carter
I have been working with this company for a few years now and they are truly professional. Scott Chase has been very helpful for me and answers all of my questions. I recommend this law firm over any other firm in the area!
Read more
30 Aug, 2020 by Annaliese peterson
This is an excellent firm that has been a constant source of support, professionalism, and agility to adapt to our business needs, from long-term strategic to short-term urgent support. I have also used them for a very broad range of legal services, and can speak to the high degree of performance and delivery across the board in all facets. Highly suggest you make FGHW a partner in your business' needs.
Read more
22 Sep, 2020 by Trey austin
Scott Chase, with Farrow-Gillespie Heath Witter, is one of the best attorneys we have ever worked with. He is clear and concise in his communication, he does not do busy work just to charge you billable hours, what you see is what you get! I would recommend this firm to anyone.
Read more
21 Sep, 2020 by Ashley carter
I have been working with this company for a few years now and they are truly professional. Scott Chase has been very helpful for me and answers all of my questions. I recommend this law firm over any other firm in the area!
Read more
30 Aug, 2020 by Annaliese peterson
This is an excellent firm that has been a constant source of support, professionalism, and agility to adapt to our business needs, from long-term strategic to short-term urgent support. I have also used them for a very broad range of legal services, and can speak to the high degree of performance and delivery across the board in all facets. Highly suggest you make FGHW a partner in your business' needs.
Read more
22 Sep, 2020 by Trey austin
Scott Chase, with Farrow-Gillespie Heath Witter, is one of the best attorneys we have ever worked with. He is clear and concise in his communication, he does not do busy work just to charge you billable hours, what you see is what you get! I would recommend this firm to anyone.
Read more
21 Sep, 2020 by Ashley carter
I have been working with this company for a few years now and they are truly professional. Scott Chase has been very helpful for me and answers all of my questions. I recommend this law firm over any other firm in the area!
Read more
30 Aug, 2020 by Annaliese peterson
This is an excellent firm that has been a constant source of support, professionalism, and agility to adapt to our business needs, from long-term strategic to short-term urgent support. I have also used them for a very broad range of legal services, and can speak to the high degree of performance and delivery across the board in all facets. Highly suggest you make FGHW a partner in your business' needs.
Read more
22 Sep, 2020 by Trey austin
Scott Chase, with Farrow-Gillespie Heath Witter, is one of the best attorneys we have ever worked with. He is clear and concise in his communication, he does not do busy work just to charge you billable hours, what you see is what you get! I would recommend this firm to anyone.
Read more
21 Sep, 2020 by Ashley carter
I have been working with this company for a few years now and they are truly professional. Scott Chase has been very helpful for me and answers all of my questions. I recommend this law firm over any other firm in the area!
Read more
30 Aug, 2020 by Annaliese peterson
This is an excellent firm that has been a constant source of support, professionalism, and agility to adapt to our business needs, from long-term strategic to short-term urgent support. I have also used them for a very broad range of legal services, and can speak to the high degree of performance and delivery across the board in all facets. Highly suggest you make FGHW a partner in your business' needs.
Read more
28 Apr, 2022 by Daniel little
Austin Champion, Mark Torian and Andrew Gray are amazing attorneys that have represented me for several years of a hard fought battle against a corporate lawsuit to destroy us. These men fought for the Little guy and I would highly recommend them to you as well!
Read more
14 Jan, 2022 by Cameron
My experience with Champion, LLP can only be described as Remarkable. Authentic, considerate, direct, realistic, and did not waste any time to take action. I couldn’t have asked for better representation and counsel.
Read more
02 Feb, 2019 by Shelley miller clayton
06 Apr, 2022 by Emily wilson
Great personal service!
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26 Jan, 2016 by Tasha
Mark and his partner do great work and helping you resolve your bankruptcy case, They work with you the whole way, all my questions where answered. Starting this process I didn't know anything about bankruptcy and not sure if I was doing the right thing, Mark and his partner helped explained and made sure my case was approved through the courts. I know I made the right choice in hiring this firm
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26 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Mark Toronjo was very knowledgeable about Texas bankruptcy laws, and with my chapter 7 case. When we met, I was so overwhelmed with the math, and he literally was doing the calculations in his head, and then he double checked it with the calculator. I am very impressed with him.
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22 Sep, 2020 by Trey austin
Scott Chase, with Farrow-Gillespie Heath Witter, is one of the best attorneys we have ever worked with. He is clear and concise in his communication, he does not do busy work just to charge you billable hours, what you see is what you get! I would recommend this firm to anyone.
Read more
21 Sep, 2020 by Ashley carter
I have been working with this company for a few years now and they are truly professional. Scott Chase has been very helpful for me and answers all of my questions. I recommend this law firm over any other firm in the area!
Read more
30 Aug, 2020 by Annaliese peterson
This is an excellent firm that has been a constant source of support, professionalism, and agility to adapt to our business needs, from long-term strategic to short-term urgent support. I have also used them for a very broad range of legal services, and can speak to the high degree of performance and delivery across the board in all facets. Highly suggest you make FGHW a partner in your business' needs.
Read more
28 Apr, 2022 by Daniel little
Austin Champion, Mark Torian and Andrew Gray are amazing attorneys that have represented me for several years of a hard fought battle against a corporate lawsuit to destroy us. These men fought for the Little guy and I would highly recommend them to you as well!
Read more
14 Jan, 2022 by Cameron
My experience with Champion, LLP can only be described as Remarkable. Authentic, considerate, direct, realistic, and did not waste any time to take action. I couldn’t have asked for better representation and counsel.
Read more
02 Feb, 2019 by Shelley miller clayton
28 Apr, 2022 by Daniel little
Austin Champion, Mark Torian and Andrew Gray are amazing attorneys that have represented me for several years of a hard fought battle against a corporate lawsuit to destroy us. These men fought for the Little guy and I would highly recommend them to you as well!
Read more
14 Jan, 2022 by Cameron
My experience with Champion, LLP can only be described as Remarkable. Authentic, considerate, direct, realistic, and did not waste any time to take action. I couldn’t have asked for better representation and counsel.
Read more
02 Feb, 2019 by Shelley miller clayton
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.
