Filter by

star star star star star
21 Jun, 2023 by Christina
If you need an assertive, honest, and experienced attorney that will be as invested in your case as you are, look no further. I can say without a doubt that Drake Shunneson is the best attorney I have ever had the pleasure of working with and his service is second to none. In the courtroom he is confident, well prepared, and well versed in the case he is presenting to the Court. He is a well respected and well liked member of the McHenry and Lake County legal communities. We retained him for two separate cases and have no doubts when it comes to placing our trust in him to act with the best interest of our family in mind. I initially retained Mr. Shunneson to register a parenting plan in Illinois (my career moves me around a lot). This simple case quickly became very complex and high conflict because of an uncooperative respondent. When my case became exceptionally complicated, Drake accepted the challenge head on. He was flexible in his practice and not afraid to step out of his comfort zone to see our case through. Drake respects the fact that every case is unique and wants what is best for his clients. It is evident with the amount of time he devotes to his clients and their cases. (Just keep in mind that what is best and what you want may not always be the same thing, but he has a way of helping you understand why it is the best thing). Mr. Shunneson handled our cases with ease. He was very communicative throughout the process and we were always well informed of our options along the way. He was always very attentive and we never felt as though we were just another client to bill. For all of these reasons and many that are not listed, we will continue to retain Mr. Shunneson and this firm for all of our legal needs.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Life hands us things we need help to take care of. We were blessed to meet Drake Shunneson and work with him. He was so much more than just another lawyer handling my case. He seemed genuinely concerned for me and that has meant the world! I highly recommend if anyone is in need of a great lawyer. If he can help you can rest assured he will do everything he can.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Very knowledgeable. He helped me through one of the toughest times of my life. I cannot recommend him enough
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
09 Jun, 2021 by Ted poplawski
We were clients of EBLG in 2010 when we created our initial estate planning documents. We now live in Arizona and miss the counseling, hand-holding and valuable information EBLG provided to us. Your professionalism and thoroughness spoiled us!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Aug, 2020 by John kruckman
Larry and everyone at EBLG are ultimate professionals. They are very thorough and detail oriented, always putting the best interests of their clients first. All while done in a warm, personal manner.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Aug, 2018 by Doug mckinley
Larry is a no nonsense clear thinking attorney. He helped me with a complex contracting challenge with patience and forward thinking. I recommend him to you if you need help sorting out confusing messages that have high stakes in your career or personal path.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
04 Sep, 2024 by Lizbeth hernandez
George was very honest from the beginning and helped me in every possible way. His high level of expertise delivered the best possible outcome. He was very professional, optimistic, transparent, caring, and non-judgmental. Communication was never a problem. All my questions were always answered immediately. Elanna did an amazing job as well. Definitely recommend. I can't thank them enough.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Aug, 2024 by Lilia villanueva
A few days ago I received my green card, which was made possible thanks to the advice of Jorge and his work team. It was really a process that was carried out effectively, with the right professionalism to obtain a satisfactory result. Personally, I highly recommend the immigration services offered by Jorge and his collaborators. I deeply appreciate the support received to be able to count on my immigration documents.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Aug, 2024 by Jorge blum
Lawyer George and his crew are the best ones ever!! They helped my wife and I to achieve our goal of being together and having a normal life and be able to travel and make experiences together!! I got all my processes approved without interview and I got my green card in less than 10 months!!! Highly recommended guys!!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Jul, 2024 by Zara borkhovik
I worked with Lexern Law Group for my estate planning, and I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. They took the time to explain every step of the process, answering all my questions and addressing any concerns I had. I highly recommend Oleg Feldman and Lexern Law Group to anyone looking for an estate planning lawyer.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Jun, 2024 by Claire o'dea
Kristie Cary Fingerhut has been my lawyer since 2016. She is ethical, professional, educated and well-versed in her field, empathetic, personable, and trustworthy. She has been a lifeboat of calm and safety in the storm of family court. Kristie is always 100% prepared for court appearances and is thorough and prompt in relaying information to me. She responds to my communication in a timely manner. She is a shining example of what a family law attorney should be. I could not have found a better lawyer and am forever indebted to Kristie for the exemplary work she has put into my case.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Jun, 2024 by Alexis lavine
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
26 Aug, 2024 by Kailash barela
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Jul, 2024 by Delano meriweather
Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Geets romo
I'm happy for those who had a good experience with him, but my ex-wife and I had a horrible one. We were trying to work out an amicable solution, but Mr. Kessler was no help at all. It was (obviously) a terrible time for us and he chose to make us feel worse by rolling his eyes and saying things such as "I just don't know how you're going to pay all the bills" and, in so many words, accusing me of cheating on my taxes (I'm a gig worker and my return is complicated). After over $1000 worth of sessions, we were further away from an amicable divorce than we were before. He really milked us and, had we continued, I shudder to think how much money we would have wasted. His little dog, "Mr. B" was running around the office and he would often interrupt our sessions to deal with it. Things turned out great for us because we were able to calmly work it out ourselves, which, in the end, is what everyone in this situation must do. Don't hire someone like this to do your problem solving for you. He just wants your money and you'll still be in a maze of problems. Update: I just read his response and here is my response: What does the timing of my review have to do with anything? The breakup of a thirty-year marriage takes time to process, and it took me awhile to realize how badly we'd been treated. It's important to let others know. It's rather stunning (and incredibly unprofessional) that he would post details of my tax return here, but it's not surprising, given our experience. FYI, I play music at nursing homes, schools, special needs organizations, etc., and it is NOT a profiting "business". With equipment, music, instruments, sound system, travel, etc., it costs a lot more to do than I get paid, so my self-employment section, with legal deductions, always shows a loss. My ex-wife and I are on SS and share my teacher pension and my music gigs are just something I enjoy doing. And, he didn't point out any specific "errors", he just said, "That's an aggressive tax return." We only went to him because we were told by our lawyer that it was a necessary step, but he deserves no credit for helping us, as he claims, because nothing was accomplished. My ex-wife and I worked everything out ourselves. For most people, especially those facing economic uncertainty after divorcing, $1000 for three meaningless meetings is significant. He find it "humorous" and brings Mr. B to work. Solve your own problems. You'll be better off.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2014 by Todd
Very up front about cost and expectations. Delayed my case until retainer depleted almost exactly. When I negotiated a settlement with opposing party, Ms. Vicari proposed another settlement that upon scrutiny, was worse than the one I secured and negotiated. She didn't appear to remember what was discussed at prior meetings, delaying the progress.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
10 Jul, 2008 by Anonymous
Walter Schummer took cash and did Nothing. He did not want go with us for interview with INS and reccommended to cancel it. We went alone. After 3 years of waiting we made info-pass appiontment to INS and "discovered" that my husband under deportation order for the last 5 month. Terrible discovery! We immediately hired another lawyer. Our paperwork was a mess, wrongly filed. We are still cleaning that mess. More time and more money needed. Almost a year ago he sent us a letter with promice to return our money. He did not retunrned money, but he sent us another letter with promice... to return our money. I am wondering now: is it time limit for return? Is trying to cheat again?
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Litigation Lawyer Can Do for You

A litigation lawyer specializes in representing individuals, businesses, or organizations involved in legal disputes. Whether you're the one filing a lawsuit or you're being sued, a litigation attorney will advocate on your behalf throughout the entire legal process. Their goal is to resolve disputes, either through negotiation, settlement, or trial. Litigation lawyers can help with a wide range of disputes, including contract disagreements, real estate issues, employment disputes, personal injury claims, and more.

Litigation lawyers provide strategic legal advice and manage all aspects of your case, from filing motions to representing you in court, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome.

When Should I Hire a Litigation Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a litigation lawyer if you're involved in a legal dispute that you cannot resolve on your own. Common situations include:

  • Breach of contract disputes: If a party to a contract fails to fulfill their obligations, a litigation lawyer can help you seek damages or enforce the agreement.
  • Business disputes: Litigation lawyers can represent you in cases of partnership disagreements, intellectual property disputes, or business fraud.
  • Employment disputes: If you're facing issues like wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, or wage disputes, a litigation lawyer can help resolve these matters through negotiation or court action.
  • Personal injury claims: If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence and are seeking compensation, a litigation attorney can help you pursue your case.
  • Real estate or property disputes: When there are conflicts over property ownership, boundary issues, or lease agreements, a litigation lawyer can assist in resolving the dispute.

Hiring a lawyer early in the process is beneficial, especially if a lawsuit seems imminent or you have already been served with legal documents.

What Does a Litigation Lawyer Do?

A litigation lawyer handles all aspects of your case, from the initial investigation to the trial and even the appeals process, if necessary. Their role includes:

  • Case assessment and investigation: Analyzing the facts of your case and advising whether it’s worth pursuing or defending.
  • Pleadings and motions: Drafting and filing documents to initiate or respond to a lawsuit, including complaints, motions to dismiss, and answers.
  • Discovery: Gathering evidence, including depositions, interrogatories, and document requests, to build your case.
  • Negotiations and settlement discussions: Attempting to resolve disputes through mediation, arbitration, or settlement talks before going to trial.
  • Trial representation: Presenting your case in court, examining witnesses, introducing evidence, and making legal arguments before a judge or jury.
  • Appeals: If necessary, filing appeals to challenge or defend the outcome of the trial.

Litigation lawyers are also skilled negotiators and often work to resolve disputes outside of court to save time, money, and stress for their clients.

How Are Litigation Lawyers Paid?

Litigation lawyers typically use a variety of fee structures depending on the type of case, the complexity of the legal matter, and the financial circumstances of the client. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Many litigation attorneys charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and geographic location.
  • Flat fees: For specific, predictable legal tasks (such as filing a motion), lawyers may offer a flat fee.
  • Contingency fees: In personal injury or other cases where you seek damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency basis, taking a percentage of the settlement or award if you win.
  • Retainer: Some clients pay a retainer fee upfront to secure ongoing legal services. The lawyer then bills against this retainer as work is done.

The exact structure should be discussed in the initial consultation to ensure you understand how and when you'll be charged.

How Much Does a Litigation Lawyer Cost?

The cost of a litigation lawyer varies significantly depending on the nature of the dispute and the lawyer’s experience. Factors affecting the cost include:

  • The complexity of the case: More complex litigation involving extensive discovery, expert witnesses, or multi-party suits typically costs more.
  • Time spent: Litigation cases can be time-consuming, especially if they go to trial. The longer the case, the higher the legal fees.
  • Type of fee arrangement: Hourly rates can range from $200 to over $1,000 per hour, depending on the lawyer’s reputation and location. Contingency fees generally range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or award.
  • Stage of litigation: Cases that settle early in the process are often less expensive than those that proceed to trial or appeal.

It’s crucial to ask about cost estimates during your initial consultation to avoid surprises.

Top Questions to Ask a Litigation Lawyer

Before hiring a litigation lawyer, it's essential to ask key questions to ensure you're choosing the right representation:

  1. 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.
  2. What are the potential outcomes of my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case's strengths, weaknesses, and the likelihood of success.
  3. What is your fee structure?
    Clarify how you'll be charged, whether by the hour, a flat fee, or on a contingency basis.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Scroll to top