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21 Mar, 2024 by Zachary perelman
04 Oct, 2023 by Colorado family
We recently worked with Colton Craft at Davis Schilken to put together Wills and a Family Trust for my husband and I, along with the necessary healthcare and power of attorney documents. Colton was patient, detailed, professional, and efficient. We asked MANY questions, as did he, and feel like we came away with the right decisions. Our final binder was impressive and comprehensive. Everything was well explained, and Colton could not have been more pleasant to work with. I highly recommend Colton Craft if you are looking to make this long process very easy.
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26 Apr, 2021 by Tom lindsay
A good quality product produced for us. A very good company which acted very professional with us. They met our schedule / timeframe with a quality product.
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23 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
We highly recommend using Darrell Damschen as he fought, and won, a dispute for us over improperly installed siding on our home. We tried to resolve the issue ourselves without any results and when Darrell became involved he swiftly took action and organized the lawsuit. He was prompt, professional and courteous. We would definitely use his services again.
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05 Jan, 2016 by Matt
My wife and I hired Mr. Damschen to defend us against a complicated lawsuit filed against us by a reckless and negligent hardwood flooring contractor. Mr. Damschen initially provided us with free phone consultations and then we hired him to represent us.
Mr. Damschen is personable, cordial and easy to speak with as he does well to translate legal jargon into common English. He was always well prepared and did considerable research to stay on top of the case.
He was successful in getting a number of claims against us withdrawn or dismissed and ultimately put us in a good situation to address the true matter at hand which was complicated by the contractor's frivolous claims.
In the end Mr. Damschen was able to get us in a position to make a very reasonable settlement offer to avoid further legal costs.
We would highly recommend Mr. Damschen to anyone who is dealing with a construction defect or a contract dispute.
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29 Dec, 2015 by Za w johnson
Darrell did an exceptional job of determining all that would be required and making contacts with all necessary players. He kept several of our people in the loop not just me. He guided the proper funds resources needed for the bidding process. He acted as our representative in the bidding process at the county office. He made sure all of the necessary paperwork was filed with the county. He checked to be sure that the transaction became finalized after the necessary waiting period. He secured the information needed to gain access to the property after the transaction was final. Everything that Darrell did was outstanding and clear and with the necessary detail. He made all of the required decisions that could have been a source of unnecessary work for us as client. I highly recommend Darrell to anyone seeking legal guidance. He will be upfront about what it will take to accomplish the task and move forward with confidence and great capability once hired.
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11 Apr, 2019 by Helen
I interviewed a couple of Denver area attorneys before hiring Rose Mary Zapor to do my will. I learned about her after asking friends for a referral. Rose has had many years of experience with elder law and services for the elderly, including estate planning, and with how laws work in Colorado. She did my will for a reasonable flat fee, which made me feel at ease, not on the clock, while i asked numerous questions and she answered them patiently. Rose was meticulous and detail-oriented going through various options and scenarios, and gave me some good suggestions and warnings about what not to do. Her staff is efficient, too.
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08 May, 2012 by Rick
Rose helped me with medical lawsuit and was so helpful.
Quick, responsive and caring.
Rose helped me in a difficult situation with opposing lawyers and went the extra mile to resolve my issue.
Honest and caring!
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09 Dec, 2011 by Josh
Rose is an amazing lawyer. She is fair, knowledgeable and a very kind person. She is very well-versed in several different types of law including elder law, military law and family law. She is an acceptional mediator and a blessing to any case you may have. I used to say Rose had a heart of gold, but now I know she is solid gold from head to toe. She has my highest recomendation for any project she undertakes, any relationship she has or any legal matter for which you may need assistance. I would hire her at any other time as well for whatever issue I had at hand.
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08 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
We had a difficult international tax issue relating to FBARs and Amanda took a morning with us to get it all sorted out at a fraction of the cost of three quotes from other law firms.
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13 Sep, 2016 by Renee
I was charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States Government and was looking at 3 – 5 years in Federal Prison.
Attorney Amanda Boog Cruser represented me on my case and I couldn’t have chosen a better attorney. This whole process was, at times, difficult for me and very stressful. She was well prepared, thorough, convincing, and always accurate. She gathered character references from personal and business associates to show the judge my true character. Her portrayal of me and what I went through was helpful in my defense.
Amanda is knowledgeable, extremely professional, and always kept me informed during the process. It was apparent to me that she sincerely cared about the outcome as much as I did and I wasn’t just another case. She fought for me! She was always straightforward with me even if it wasn’t what I wanted to hear yet comforting.
The outcome was beyond what I could have hoped for…Amanda was able prevent me from serving any time in prison. Amanda is a terrific person and an amazing attorney. I would recommend her firm to anyone.
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10 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Amanda is Fantastic! She knew immediately how to proceed with our Tax issue and what steps we needed to take to achieve the best outcome possible. She is extremely Knowledgeable, Professional and compassionate. I highly recommend Amanda with any Tax issue you might encounter. From the beginning to the very end she was there every step of the way with advice and help and also with a personal touch which helps in that very stressful time. I believe we achieved the best possible outcome. Thank You Amanda!
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10 Sep, 2016 by Jess
Richard has been my business attorney for 10 years, reviewing numerous contracts for me. He is thorough and thoughtful, pointing out possible consequences in the context of my business. I heartily recommend Richard to anyone who needs a sharp business lawyer.
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09 Dec, 2015 by Jason
Richard has always taken the time to understand my situations no matter how complex. He has offered sound advise and has helped me in many ways from business organization to financial planning. Thanks Richard!
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19 Jan, 2017 by Pete
We had an issue with flooding. He had the builder buy the house back from is at a hefty profit. Not sure why his rating would be so low. He was great for us.
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14 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Mark is a great attorney. He is very professional and personable. He was able to settle my case quickly and with a better results then I had expected. I highly recommend him.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Ever alvarado
Son muy confiables y me ayudaron mucho en mi caso los recomendaría a quien los necesite
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12 Aug, 2024 by Patrick mccolgan
If you need the final straw to decide on a PI law firm, then you should consider the fact that Matos Personal Injury Lawyers offer great assistance with property damage claims. Jenny was very easy to communicate with, and she was able to negotiate very good settlements for loss of use and diminished value from my accident. I'm certain that the professionalism she demonstrated with me had a huge impact on the results of the settlments she negotiated with the insurance agent, and Jenny exceeded all my expectations on both settlements. Not all personal injury firms offer assistance with property damage claims, so make sure you know what you're signing up for with the other law firms.
Lisandra and her team have been a delight to work with, and they have never pressured me into any decision. Daisy always has a positive attitude, and I really feel like they care about making sure I am taken care of. My personal injury case is still active, but I am already grateful, regardless of the final settlement, that the Matos team has my back!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Madgleya ospino
Tuve un accidente el 30 de marzo y días después llamé a Matos Personal Injury Lawyers donde me atendieron muy amablemente desde la primera llamada, ellos me ayudaron a armar mi caso donde mi camioneta tuvo pérdida total y yo tuve lesiones fuertes por las que me hicieron exámenes y terapias de recuperación, gracias a Dios ya estoy mejor. Ellos me han ayudado con todo el proceso, siempre han estado a mi disposición, por lo que los recomiendo al 100% sin duda. Gracias
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10 Sep, 2024 by Ever alvarado
Son muy confiables y me ayudaron mucho en mi caso los recomendaría a quien los necesite
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12 Aug, 2024 by Patrick mccolgan
If you need the final straw to decide on a PI law firm, then you should consider the fact that Matos Personal Injury Lawyers offer great assistance with property damage claims. Jenny was very easy to communicate with, and she was able to negotiate very good settlements for loss of use and diminished value from my accident. I'm certain that the professionalism she demonstrated with me had a huge impact on the results of the settlments she negotiated with the insurance agent, and Jenny exceeded all my expectations on both settlements. Not all personal injury firms offer assistance with property damage claims, so make sure you know what you're signing up for with the other law firms.
Lisandra and her team have been a delight to work with, and they have never pressured me into any decision. Daisy always has a positive attitude, and I really feel like they care about making sure I am taken care of. My personal injury case is still active, but I am already grateful, regardless of the final settlement, that the Matos team has my back!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Madgleya ospino
Tuve un accidente el 30 de marzo y días después llamé a Matos Personal Injury Lawyers donde me atendieron muy amablemente desde la primera llamada, ellos me ayudaron a armar mi caso donde mi camioneta tuvo pérdida total y yo tuve lesiones fuertes por las que me hicieron exámenes y terapias de recuperación, gracias a Dios ya estoy mejor. Ellos me han ayudado con todo el proceso, siempre han estado a mi disposición, por lo que los recomiendo al 100% sin duda. Gracias
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22 May, 2024 by Antonio montez
Charles did so amazing with my case, he was patient with me and helped me understand everything I was going through. Even as I was in between jobs he worked with me and got my case dismissed. The best lawyer hands down.
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05 May, 2024 by Jorge cabrera (dedd heart)
Jonathon Douglas is a shark. I have to say, he is tough and knows his stuff. After the accident, he didn't take any stuff from the insurance company. I was impressed that I had someone tough like him on my side.
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04 May, 2024 by Cj adams
Cant go wrong with sean with and car accident case
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20 Sep, 2024 by Ken perez
Miss Callan is truly family oriented and a diligent hard working individual.
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18 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
I want to start by saying that I did not know whether my case even had a chance of going in my favor, even a little bit. I had never really had a lawyer that I had worked with this closely before, so I didn't know what to do.
I was probably one of the most difficult clients that they've had. Meredith was very patient with me, even though I kept getting frustrated and angry about all of this. She wasn't the type of person to be super effusive and overly reassuring - she was very practical and I needed that. "No, he can't do that." "Yes, that's correct." I was frustrated with the process over and over again, because my ex would say one thing to my face, and then turn around and say something else to her, the mediator, the children, or the court. I want to be clear that I had a lot of responsibility for the situation that required legal proceedings to begin with.
But because of Meredith, I feel like the judge was able to see all of the hard work that I've put in and I ended up getting the most favorable ruling I could have imagined for myself and my children. There's still a long road to go. I have to keep proving every day that I deserve what the judge has granted me, but I don't mind. Meredith had the faith in me that I hadn't experienced from someone involved with this case and she helped me show the court that it was in the children's best interest that the court have faith in me too.
Meredith did her job and she was good at it. But what made Meredith's work on my case so meaningful was that she could look at me like the mother and human being that I am. I didn't feel like a paycheck to her.
I also want to mention Kimberly Kendle. She was Meredith's paralegal for most of the case and she always took the time out to call me and answer the questions that I had. That was really important to me, just to hear back.
I can't go into a lot more details because unfortunately the case is still going in another manner. I can't afford representation anymore, because I honestly couldn't afford it to begin with. But I did want to say that if you are in a similar situation and aren't sure whether or not you can really afford New Leaf I might at least just talk to them. They don't do hourly billing, but monthly and there were fewer surprises. Ultimately I would recommend specifically Meredith and/or Kimberly and even though I can't afford representation anymore I feel like Meredith gave me advice I can take into my pro se part of this journey.
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29 Jul, 2022 by Katherine
Meredith was amazing! She is honest, intelligent and resolved. I needed someone who wouldn't back down to stand up for my parental rights. My case was complicated and high conflict, yet she took it on and we were able to come to a resolution out of court (which I thought would take a miracle!) Her experience and guidance are outstanding.
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08 Feb, 2020 by Nathan bracey
I should have done this sooner, but better late than never. Lynn Pierce, and Jack Hyland are experts in criminal justice. Not only were they able get me the best outcome for my situation, but they did it like it was second nature. To top things off not only did they try and give me good advice, but actually did it because they care about people, and thier lives. Ill never forget Lynn, and Jack for their efforts.
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09 Dec, 2018 by Tracy lundmark
Top Sheepdog for the Black Sheep! She fights for her clients, keeps her focus, and takes the time to understand the individual cases. Your in good hands trusting Lynn Pierce!
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19 Sep, 2018 by Lisa anne
Lynn is one of the best! Kind and sincere! She truly cares and works hard to defend what is right! I would recommend her to anyone!
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08 Apr, 2024 by Gamebob
Had a wonderful consultation that explained everything we needed to know to get the process started and where to go from here. Thank you, Christian Frank!
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20 Mar, 2024 by Marcos e ortega cordova
Professionalism and patience is what one should look for in a lawyer and with USADefend Law Firm you will find it.
We contacted Christian M. Frank Fas, Esq. thru a recommendation and were not disappointed in the results. Working through the process of a change of citizenship status is not an easy job and it takes a lot of paperwork and back and forth. Thankfully, me and my wife were explained the process not once, but all the times we had to re-ask the same questions with months in-between.
It is a long process, but thanks to the professionalism of Christian M. Frank Fas, Esq. we were lead thru it with certainty in that the correct paperwork was submitted.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Connie kaplan
This attorney and his firm have such a wide array of knowledge on so many areas (crypto, investments, immigration, etc.) that it is hard to find a better firm for anyone looking for an investment visa to the US.
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06 May, 2024 by Cassidy richie
06 May, 2024 by Billy tjoa
Very helpful!
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06 May, 2024 by Charquez taylor
Very helpful
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25 May, 2023 by Eastan hamlin
Had a conference call scheduled at 4pm and nobody even called or bothered to reschedule.
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07 Mar, 2023 by Chris tee
I text the number on the website over the weekend and never got a response. I get the office may be closed on weekends, but it was definitely discouraging no one reached out to me yesterday.
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22 Aug, 2022 by Andrew sharp
Perfect experience with Jim and his staff member Kate. Jim helped me deal with a plea that helped me get out of a harsher traffic violation. His staff member, Kaye was also able to help me with any questions when Jim was unavailable. Jim was professional, communicative, and a very nice gentleman. Better Call Jim!
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27 Aug, 2018 by Chester
Evan has been nothing short of excellent in over 25 years dealing with all of our corporate legal issues. We have 5 entities that he has among other things, formulated sales agreements, issuance of stock certificates, buy/sell agreements, collections, and State of Colorado Secretary of State compliance.
He has always offered reasonable advice to help our multiple ownership team make practical decisions in all aspects over the years.
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23 Aug, 2018 by B.
Evan is our business attorney and we call him on an as needed basis. He has always been very knowledgeable and helpful in responding to our inquires.
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23 Aug, 2018 by Ed
Did a terrific job in a jury trial in personal injury case - we won! He's a good, practical lawyer.
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25 May, 2023 by Eastan hamlin
Had a conference call scheduled at 4pm and nobody even called or bothered to reschedule.
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07 Mar, 2023 by Chris tee
I text the number on the website over the weekend and never got a response. I get the office may be closed on weekends, but it was definitely discouraging no one reached out to me yesterday.
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22 Aug, 2022 by Andrew sharp
Perfect experience with Jim and his staff member Kate. Jim helped me deal with a plea that helped me get out of a harsher traffic violation. His staff member, Kaye was also able to help me with any questions when Jim was unavailable. Jim was professional, communicative, and a very nice gentleman. Better Call Jim!
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11 Nov, 2024 by Robert ziegler
Incredibly well organized business that is devoted to providing an exceptional experience for its clients.
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11 Nov, 2024 by Cynthia carducci
Darlenis made a difficult decision easy to navigate. She was always available for questions and was very pleasant to work with
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31 Oct, 2024 by D's youtube
Me: Can you answer some questions about your services?
New Leaf: NO. Give us money.
Me: Well, I would like some things clarified first.
New Leaf: NO. Give us money.
Me: Fine. *pays their fee* Now Can I ask some questions about your services?
New Leaf: NO. Give us money.
Me: I did give you money, can I ask questions about your services now?
New Leaf: No.
Me: I want a refund.
New Leaf: You can ask us questions now.
Me: I just want a refund, I think your firm is a scam.
And I'm still waiting on the refund. This firm is so compartmentalized it is just discombobulated. The right finger has no idea what the right thumb is doing. They haven't answered a single question of mine, yet I have talked to 5 people.
New Leaf is a joke.
Edit: I did get my refund, and to prove how little they know what's happening in their firm I got my welcome letter after my refund.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.5
72 Reviews
12 Oct, 2024 by Vivian barreras
Working with Stephen Carbonneau was a great experience.
My divorce was handled good and in a short order.
I was kept updated in every way. I liked Stephen and the firm so much that I will have them my will now that the divorce is complete. Great firm to represent you thru the courts.
Vivian
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17 Jun, 2024 by Bob martin
Don't use them. Rude and seem to be frustrated with life.
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07 May, 2024 by Pam cole
I contacted several law firms to discuss my legal issues and by far Kirsten Myers, and her legal assistant Christy, were the absolute best. They listened carefully, were empathetic, responsive and incredibly knowledgeable. They also laid out the issues and their advice clearly so that I could make the best choices for me.
I have nothing but wonderful things to say about my experience with this Law Firm.
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12 Oct, 2024 by Vivian barreras
Working with Stephen Carbonneau was a great experience.
My divorce was handled good and in a short order.
I was kept updated in every way. I liked Stephen and the firm so much that I will have them my will now that the divorce is complete. Great firm to represent you thru the courts.
Vivian
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17 Jun, 2024 by Bob martin
Don't use them. Rude and seem to be frustrated with life.
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07 May, 2024 by Pam cole
I contacted several law firms to discuss my legal issues and by far Kirsten Myers, and her legal assistant Christy, were the absolute best. They listened carefully, were empathetic, responsive and incredibly knowledgeable. They also laid out the issues and their advice clearly so that I could make the best choices for me.
I have nothing but wonderful things to say about my experience with this Law Firm.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Elaine huffman
I have recently had the opportunity to use the legal services of Michael Levy on two separate occasions. I wanted to take a moment to share my experience and thoughts. I found Michael Levy to be extremely responsive. The second issue I brought to him was time sensitive. He made arrangements to see me within two hours of our initial discussion. That kind of response is unheard of these days. The work related to that issue was completed that same day. I was kept informed on progress and potential issues throughout the whole process.
Mike Levy is very knowledgeable. He explains legal issues, potential problems, and the process clearly so you can understand and make an informed decision and action plan.
Michael Levy is extremely competent, professional, and caring. I highly recommend his legal services.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Matt schneider
12 Jul, 2023 by Terrie vaughan
I just have a question, no real review, but why would a lawyer, allow a contractor to install less than what was paid for by a client and not get the contractor to correct it? I have the invoice and loads of emails. Just wondering, as it just baffles me.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Elaine huffman
I have recently had the opportunity to use the legal services of Michael Levy on two separate occasions. I wanted to take a moment to share my experience and thoughts. I found Michael Levy to be extremely responsive. The second issue I brought to him was time sensitive. He made arrangements to see me within two hours of our initial discussion. That kind of response is unheard of these days. The work related to that issue was completed that same day. I was kept informed on progress and potential issues throughout the whole process.
Mike Levy is very knowledgeable. He explains legal issues, potential problems, and the process clearly so you can understand and make an informed decision and action plan.
Michael Levy is extremely competent, professional, and caring. I highly recommend his legal services.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Matt schneider
12 Jul, 2023 by Terrie vaughan
I just have a question, no real review, but why would a lawyer, allow a contractor to install less than what was paid for by a client and not get the contractor to correct it? I have the invoice and loads of emails. Just wondering, as it just baffles me.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Kay smith
Luke C and Cheryl C both worked diligently to finalize my personal injury claim. They both kept me informed about what was happening and patiently answered my questions and concerns. Highly recommend!
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01 Sep, 2024 by Karlie kubas
Mintz law firm was wonderful to work with regarding my case. It took a while to close up but that’s to be expected. They fought to get me the maximum amount they could and would check in with me periodically during my treatment to see how I was doing. This was my first time dealing with something like this and they made my experience smooth and made me feel important to them.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Nick valdivia
I thought it was pretty unprofessional when I was called back by someone in the office (paralegal?) to demand my business after telling them I was more comfortable with another attorney. Is it your company's policy to berate potential clients and attempt to bully them into working with your firm? This attitude may have worked decades ago but it shows how out of touch your law office is with the times. Typical ambulance chaser behavior.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Kay smith
Luke C and Cheryl C both worked diligently to finalize my personal injury claim. They both kept me informed about what was happening and patiently answered my questions and concerns. Highly recommend!
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01 Sep, 2024 by Karlie kubas
Mintz law firm was wonderful to work with regarding my case. It took a while to close up but that’s to be expected. They fought to get me the maximum amount they could and would check in with me periodically during my treatment to see how I was doing. This was my first time dealing with something like this and they made my experience smooth and made me feel important to them.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Nick valdivia
I thought it was pretty unprofessional when I was called back by someone in the office (paralegal?) to demand my business after telling them I was more comfortable with another attorney. Is it your company's policy to berate potential clients and attempt to bully them into working with your firm? This attitude may have worked decades ago but it shows how out of touch your law office is with the times. Typical ambulance chaser behavior.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Stacy schoepko
Elaine is an absolutely amazing lawyer. She is so knowledgeable and very determined to do what needs to be done in order to help. It was a relief and a pleasure working with Elaine and I would highly recommend her.
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25 Mar, 2024 by Dan stawicki
Elaine Lukic was a godsend when I was at a tough point in my life. In the beginning of 2023, I was being charged for misdemeanors in two different cases and felt very lost. When Elaine first contacted me on the free consultation, she put me at ease very quickly and I remember her saying that she would quash both cases and get them off my record. Fast forward to 2024 and sure enough both cases were quashed and the misdemeanors were downgraded to deferred probation for six months and both of those have been sealed. I can’t say enough great things about Elaine and how much she literally saved me from being eaten up by the justice system. Thank you again and I can’t recommend her enough.
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02 Mar, 2024 by Brian bailia
Incredible, talented lawyer. Constant communication, empathetic, got my domestic violence case dismissed. Rare find in a lawyer she’s incredible.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Litigation Lawyer Can Do for You
A litigation lawyer specializes in representing individuals, businesses, or organizations involved in legal disputes. Whether you're the one filing a lawsuit or you're being sued, a litigation attorney will advocate on your behalf throughout the entire legal process. Their goal is to resolve disputes, either through negotiation, settlement, or trial. Litigation lawyers can help with a wide range of disputes, including contract disagreements, real estate issues, employment disputes, personal injury claims, and more.
Litigation lawyers provide strategic legal advice and manage all aspects of your case, from filing motions to representing you in court, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome.
When Should I Hire a Litigation Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a litigation lawyer if you're involved in a legal dispute that you cannot resolve on your own. Common situations include:
- Breach of contract disputes: If a party to a contract fails to fulfill their obligations, a litigation lawyer can help you seek damages or enforce the agreement.
- Business disputes: Litigation lawyers can represent you in cases of partnership disagreements, intellectual property disputes, or business fraud.
- Employment disputes: If you're facing issues like wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, or wage disputes, a litigation lawyer can help resolve these matters through negotiation or court action.
- Personal injury claims: If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence and are seeking compensation, a litigation attorney can help you pursue your case.
- Real estate or property disputes: When there are conflicts over property ownership, boundary issues, or lease agreements, a litigation lawyer can assist in resolving the dispute.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process is beneficial, especially if a lawsuit seems imminent or you have already been served with legal documents.
What Does a Litigation Lawyer Do?
A litigation lawyer handles all aspects of your case, from the initial investigation to the trial and even the appeals process, if necessary. Their role includes:
- Case assessment and investigation: Analyzing the facts of your case and advising whether it’s worth pursuing or defending.
- Pleadings and motions: Drafting and filing documents to initiate or respond to a lawsuit, including complaints, motions to dismiss, and answers.
- Discovery: Gathering evidence, including depositions, interrogatories, and document requests, to build your case.
- Negotiations and settlement discussions: Attempting to resolve disputes through mediation, arbitration, or settlement talks before going to trial.
- Trial representation: Presenting your case in court, examining witnesses, introducing evidence, and making legal arguments before a judge or jury.
- Appeals: If necessary, filing appeals to challenge or defend the outcome of the trial.
Litigation lawyers are also skilled negotiators and often work to resolve disputes outside of court to save time, money, and stress for their clients.
How Are Litigation Lawyers Paid?
Litigation lawyers typically use a variety of fee structures depending on the type of case, the complexity of the legal matter, and the financial circumstances of the client. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Many litigation attorneys charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and geographic location.
- Flat fees: For specific, predictable legal tasks (such as filing a motion), lawyers may offer a flat fee.
- Contingency fees: In personal injury or other cases where you seek damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency basis, taking a percentage of the settlement or award if you win.
- Retainer: Some clients pay a retainer fee upfront to secure ongoing legal services. The lawyer then bills against this retainer as work is done.
The exact structure should be discussed in the initial consultation to ensure you understand how and when you'll be charged.
How Much Does a Litigation Lawyer Cost?
The cost of a litigation lawyer varies significantly depending on the nature of the dispute and the lawyer’s experience. Factors affecting the cost include:
- The complexity of the case: More complex litigation involving extensive discovery, expert witnesses, or multi-party suits typically costs more.
- Time spent: Litigation cases can be time-consuming, especially if they go to trial. The longer the case, the higher the legal fees.
- Type of fee arrangement: Hourly rates can range from $200 to over $1,000 per hour, depending on the lawyer’s reputation and location. Contingency fees generally range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or award.
- Stage of litigation: Cases that settle early in the process are often less expensive than those that proceed to trial or appeal.
It’s crucial to ask about cost estimates during your initial consultation to avoid surprises.
Top Questions to Ask a Litigation Lawyer
Before hiring a litigation lawyer, it's essential to ask key questions to ensure you're choosing the right representation:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Ensure that the lawyer has experience handling your specific type of dispute, whether it's a contract issue, personal injury, or business matter. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case's strengths, weaknesses, and the likelihood of success. -
What is your fee structure?
Clarify how you'll be charged, whether by the hour, a flat fee, or on a contingency basis. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it's hard to predict, an experienced lawyer can give you a rough estimate based on similar cases. -
How often do you settle cases versus going to trial?
Some lawyers are more inclined to settle, while others may be more experienced in the courtroom. It’s important to understand their strategy. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Some lawyers prefer aggressive litigation, while others focus on settlement or mediation. Choose one whose approach aligns with your goals.
How to Check the Credibility of a Litigation Lawyer
To verify a litigation lawyer’s credibility, consider the following steps:
- Check bar association records: Ensure the lawyer is in good standing with the state bar and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and track record.
- Look for litigation experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they have handled cases like yours and have a record of success.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer to provide references from past clients who can speak to their effectiveness and approach.
- Research their trial experience: If your case is likely to go to trial, ensure the lawyer has a history of courtroom success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make your first consultation with a litigation lawyer productive, you should prepare the following:
- A clear outline of the dispute: Provide a timeline and key details about the legal issue you're facing.
- Any relevant documents: Bring contracts, emails, letters, or any other documentation that pertains to the case.
- A list of key players: Provide the names of individuals or companies involved in the dispute.
- Questions about fees and the litigation process: Make sure you understand how the lawyer plans to approach your case and how you will be charged.
- Your goals and expectations: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, whether it's a settlement, compensation, or another resolution.
By coming prepared, you can ensure that your initial meeting with the lawyer is both efficient and insightful, giving you a better sense of how to proceed with your case.
