>1.3k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
31 Aug, 2024 by Kwadi h
Very helpful and knowledgeable. I appreciate the information given to me by Ms. Kiefer.
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by John garafola
The Kiefer & Kiefer team is always on top of the situation. They're responsive and realistic with expectations. People you can count on.
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Tracy franks-blanchard
I contacted Ms. Kiefer for a consultation question about a personal injury claim. When answering, she was thorough and went above and beyond in explaining what Louisiana law allows. I have no hesitation about entrusting her with our case should we decide to move forward.
Read more
5.0
11 Reviews
5.0
114 Reviews
22 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
So thankful Craig Mordock was there to give us much needed and valuable insight over a sensitive matter. He gave us excellent advice; while he couldn't handle our particular case, he was upfront and honest and referred us to someone who could help us. He responded quickly - which was such a blessing.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Mona champagne
I was treated very respectfully and my case was handled with absolute integrity. I felt heard and important. Any questions I had were answered timely and when needed I was given an explanation of all steps involved.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Jemarlon franklin
I Trust them they will fight to then end Rudin Law
Read more
27 Jul, 2024 by Thelma williams
27 Jul, 2024 by Cynthia robinson
Mitchell and Associates is an AWESOME team. From the receptionist to the best lawyers which are husband and wife. They fight for their clients. I recommend this team to represent you in your legal challenges.
Read more
27 Jul, 2024 by Scotch torch
Very professional and people friendly I would highly recommend anyone hurt on a job to contact their office before just returning to work.
Read more
22 Apr, 2024 by King law
Mike Stag from Stag Liuzza is one of the best environmental lawyers in the entire country. I have worked with Mike and his team on a regular basis and could not be more impressed.
Read more
29 Feb, 2024 by Erica plaisance desmortreux
I highly recommend the Stag Liuzza firm to guide you through the legal and technical decision-making during your time of need. The attorneys are responsive, gifted litigators, assisted by courteous and helpful staff, who will work enthusiastically to resolve your environmental legal and technical issues.
Read more
21 Feb, 2024 by Kerry roby
Personally speaking, Mr Jamison walked hand in hand with me in a long process of my BP claim It was a a comfort to have his expertise to my advantage. The Stag and Liuzza Law firm came through for me.
Kerry T. Roby Sr.
Read more
5.0
13 Reviews
29 Jun, 2015 by Ron
Mike represents our company as coverage counsel in insurance matters. In our experience, Mike is diligent, provides well-rounded legal analysis grounded in the law, and presents issues clearly even in complex subject matter. We would not hesitate to recommend Mike to anyone else seeking a coverage opinion.
Read more
18 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Michael is diligent in his representation of clients. He is always responsive to your calls, and e-mails. Being knowledgeable of the real estate industry is a tremendous asset. He has always stood strong by our side and a true advocate.
Read more
17 Jun, 2015 by Steve
Mike has handled all of my legal needs since 2012. I respect him and trust his judgment. He worked diligently on the issues I presented to him and achieved a quick resolution. I highly recommend him.
Read more
09 May, 2021 by Elianna
Jed Cain was a fabulous attorney! He was so kind, thorough, prompt at responding, and very helpful. He did a great job of keeping me in the loop with how my case was going and prepared me well for every step. He was able to find me the medical care I needed and ensured I got all my needs met. I was very happy with the end results of my case and can't thank him enough for all he did for me!
Read more
04 Sep, 2018 by Paul
This lawyer makes you feel like a friend as well as a client. He knew to call in experts before the power company could fix things. First class and highly recommend
He even gave me his cell phone number
Read more
17 Jul, 2018 by Deanna
My husband and I were forced into suing a governmental entity. Mr. Cain accepted the challenge and immediately began working on our case. He quickly filed all necessary paperwork and kept us informed every step of the way. As a result of his knowledge and diligence, our case was settled in a timely manner and in our favor. I would definitely recommend Jed Cain to anyone needing an attorney.
Read more
20 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Mike is a great lawyer. He worked around the clock to get me every dollar. He made sure to answer any questions I had and ensure I was clear on everything every step of the way.
Read more
07 Apr, 2017 by Jessica
Mike is a great attorney! He will tell you what you can expect every step of the process. He will steer you in a direction that will benefit you and will answer any question you have no matter what they may be. He always responds back to you in a very timely manner and won't make you feel like you are being put on the back burner. I would highly recommend him and will continue to work with him in any future matters that I would need his expertise.
Read more
05 Apr, 2017 by Jessica
Mr. Mahone Jr was attentive, professional and honest. He was flexible with his schedule to adapt to mine. He kept me informed throughout the entire process. Mr. Mahone made a bad experience easier to deal with. Hopefully I never need an attorney again but if I do I will call Mr. Mahone Jr!
Read more
27 Jul, 2023 by Yvain bryant
10 Nov, 2021 by Jerramu trench
Bobby is 1 of the most loyal humans I’ve ever met !!!!!!! Keeps his word and all the way involved in his cases ….. he’s always honest and has always over exceeded my expectations!!!!! Thanks Bobby for being my family’s #1 go to guy ❤️💯🙏🏿
Read more
28 Oct, 2021 by Glen andrews
Bobby is more than your attorney he’s someone who puts personal interest in your life . He actually cares about you I know this personally as we have navigated some very rough seas together Bobby has never abandoned Ship ! He’s a fighter & will Fight for you . At the highest Recommendation I urge you Call Bobby Hortsburg
Red Beans & Ricky Yours
Glen David Andrews a 15 year client of Mr. Hortsburg
Read more
23 Aug, 2016 by Sue
I've had the good fortune to work with Mr Wool twice, and the bad fortune, now that I think about it, to need to do so! He is as compassionate and creative a lawyer as I can possibly imagine, going out of his way to research alternative approaches to resolving a dispute and staying in regular communication in the short term and providing ongoing check-ins, advice, and a cheering word in the long term.
Read more
12 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I provided extensive expert consulting services in New Orleans for a client whose insurance company was obligated to provide legal defense. The insurance company completely ignored my invoices for a year, just blowing me off. People advised me that I could hire just any lawyer to pursue a breach of contract suit. I ignored that advice and hired Zachary, who is a Partner in a respected firm, with business law expertise. I wanted the insurance company to know I was really serious and they were up against very competent opposition. The difference in my interaction with them could not have been more stark. They clearly respected if not feared Zachary. They fully capitulated within a month, and I’ve now been paid in full. It was a real pleasure working with Zachary who listened carefully to my needs, kept me continuously updated, and was extremely fair with his billing. I could not be more satisfied at the outcome.
Read more
17 Jun, 2016 by Ronnie rader/carter & sons
Zackary and his team were very helpful in gaining a great settlement on behalf of our Company! Zackary was always quick to respond upon my request for updates, sent updates often without a request. These updates were detailed and always on the mark. There attention to detail was obvious and helped respond to the many BP request for information and back up... Thanks for a job well done!
Read more
30 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Haedicke is a top level attorney. He took on my traffic case and did a good job of explaining the various laws and statutes that was involved with the case. He did his due diligence researching prior cases that were relevant to my issue and using that information for my case. In addition, he did a good job of reducing my stress by answering my many questions in a timely fashion and for being very competent and professional. As a result of his representation, the outcome of the case was very good for me.
Read more
06 Jul, 2016 by Matthew
From start, to end, Stephen made certain that I was aware and understood all the events as they happened. Never having gone through the system and not understanding how lengthy the process can be, he was influential in helping me maintain some level of sanity during the most chaotic times. Worth more than what he fee was, I would recommend him without a second thought.
Read more
22 Jun, 2016 by Perry evans
I recently used Mr.Haedicke as my attorney. Mr.Haedicke did an awesome job representing me in a personal injury and Civil Rights Case before a Federal Judge. Mr.Haedicke made his self available to me, anytime I called or sent and email with a question I would receive a response usually the same day or the next at the longest. I consider Mr.Haedicke to be a friend now. He represented me well. He was always kind to me and keep me at ease. The settlement was way better than I expected. I highly recommend him for any type of case. If I ever need a attorney I will call Mr.Haedicke. I couldn't have been represented any better. I'm very happy with the results of my case. If you need a attorney for anything call Stephen Haedicke.
Read more
07 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
I was travel from Nw to Florida and I was rear ended. I needed to hire an attorney from Louisiana and handle my business from Florida over phone and via text message. Gerald was honest and handle my claim in a timely manner. was able the get me a reasonable settlement. If I ever needed to hire an attorney in Louisiana again, it would most certainly be Geraldo calogero.
Read more
05 Dec, 2017 by Marilyn casey
Gerald Calogero represented me after I was injured in a local retail store. He timely settled my case for more than a fair amount. Gerald cares about his clients and has an excellent reputation as well as the knowledge and experience to successfully settle cases. More importantly, Gerald is trustworthy. He is great at listening and communicating. I was always aware of what was going during the process.
Read more
06 Nov, 2017 by Robert
The Calogero Law Firm successfully handled our business dispute and was able to resolve our claim in a timely, professional, manner. i would recommend Gerald to anyone looking to resolve any issues pertaining to their business.
Read more
18 Nov, 2023 by Mike
I met Mr. Siddiqui in January 2020 and we worked together over the next 20 months on two separate litigations. One litigation was for an unpaid wage dispute and the other a tort interference claim.
When I started searching for legal representation I had no idea what to look for. All I can say is I was very lucky to connect with him and choose him to represent me. He is very organized and has a calming and confident demeanor. His knowledge of the courts and laws made navigating the complex processes of civil litigation straightforward. The process was very stressful and frustrating, but with his guidance and wisdom we settled both matters successfully. I would highly recommend Mr. Siddiqui to any individual looking for counsel in his field.
Read more
09 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Imtiaz Siddiqui represented me in a civil lawsuit from 2018-2020. I hired him a year and a half into a complex business dispute, and he immediately worked through a holiday weekend to prepare a motion on a tight timeline. Over the next two years, Mr. Siddiqui demonstrated the breadth of his legal knowledge and expertise in both the trial court and the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals. His attention to detail and creative problem solving brought new ideas to the table and turned the case around in my favor. He presented all of my options and explained legal processes clearly every step of the way. He is professional, responsive, and his independent practice allows him to keep his fees reasonable, which demonstrates that he has compassion for people and strives to make the legal process accessible. I highly recommend Mr. Siddiqui to anyone looking for a smart, passionate, and talented attorney.
Read more
09 Oct, 2023 by Julie
While in Louisiana I worked at an asbestos litigation firm, and after Katrina, I started my own practice in the same area. I am now retired. Recently I had the opportunity to work with Imtiaz Siddiqui on a matter personal to me. He came highly recommended by two associates.
I worked with Imtiaz Siddiqui on my case from inception to conclusion and I was impressed with his legal and negotiating skills. As with any client, communication was important to me and Mr. Siddiqui consulted with me and answered all my questions. I could count on him to answer the phone, return my calls and emails. He was conscientious and kept all dates and deadlines be it a hearing or due date on a filing or brief.
Candor and professionalism are important to me and Imtiaz demonstrated this in his dealings with the opposing counsel and the court. I highly recommend Imtiaz Siddiqui.
Read more
21 Nov, 2022 by Aloysia everett
John Cook is the attorney that I have used. He researched my issue and was able to resolve my issue. I will used him and this firm again.
Read more
15 Jul, 2020 by Dave reed
Some of the best lawyers around
Read more
05 Feb, 2015 by Dave
I've worked with Roy on a handful of projects since Summer 2014, and have been consistently impressed with his kindness, his insight, and his willingness (insistence! might be a better word, really) to help a small businessman with the same intensity he brings to his higher profile clients. Simply put, the guy is a mensch.
Read more
02 Mar, 2011 by Bruce
Mr. Rodney has done an excellent job for me. Agressive but not abrasive, creative, out of box ideas. Supported with strong, broad case research
Read more
06 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Scott does things his way, but his way works. He's an exceptionally creative and talented litigator. Our company was blessed to have him on our side in a difficult race discrimination lawsuit. The guy is smart and funny and a pleasure to work with.
Read more
11 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I am the general counsel of an energy firm in New Orleans and have worked with numerous outside labor and employment counsel in the area. None are better than Scott. He is responsive, exceptionally smart, and consistently comes up with solid strategies to deal with difficult situations. On top of that, he is a genuinely good and funny guy and I have yet to review one of his bills where I thought I wasn't getting excellent value for what I was paying. Scott gets my highest recommendation.
Read more
26 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
Ms. Farris represented me during the sale of a trademark that I owned to a foreign company.
While I consider myself relatively knowledgeable about such things, she was very helpful and I was very impressed by her knowledge of trademark law as she suggested some additional protections that I had not considered especially as it related to ICANN, the organization responsible for domain registration.
Additionally, the seller wanted to facilitate trademark transfer with the USPTO in a relatively uncommon manner but we nevertheless were able to easily facilitate the transaction and by all accounts everyone was happy.
Best of all, the fees were relatively low which was a pleasant surprise understanding that Stone Pigman is one of the biggest / best firms in New Orleans.
I would highly suggest Ms. Farris if you ever need this sort of representation as not only is she very knowledgeable and a good advocate, but also very friendly and can relate well to non-attorneys.
Read more
08 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Abby assisted me in negotiating and drafting an agreement for a new joint venture with a business partner. She was very personable and knowledgable. Since she works for a top firm, you'd expect everyone there to be very bright, but "bedside manner" can be hit or miss. Never fear, though, you'll feel quite at ease with her.
Read more
27 Apr, 2021 by Dave
For 20+ years Georges has been my company attorney. Maritime business is not one you want to take lightly due to the complexity of the business and Maritime laws. From his years of experience, He understands maritime law. I wouldn't hire anyone else to handle my business affairs.
Read more
11 Feb, 2016 by Steven
Georges was "assigned" to handle a case for me about 25 years ago. With reluctance I started working with Georges. I would not have anyone else today.
There are not enough superlatives to describe Georges personally and professionally. Working with him is like working with the Who's Who of Maritime attorneys. Dedicated, relentless, ethical, professional, thorough are a few words that come to mind. Georges is the guy I want with me in the Fox Hole when I go to war. Not to mention that his corporation is a great team that provides tremendous support.
OBTW he has his hard-hat, steel-toes and life jacket in the trunk of his car.......
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I was bored and found this page who belongs to... my father. Nick Arnold is a good lawyer, great dad, and even better friend. He keeps me in line and never fails to make me laugh. PEACE OUT DAD!!!
Read more
19 Jan, 2011 by Suzanne
Nick is an aggressive, insightful attorney whose obvious enthusiasm for the practice of law is unbelievably refreshing. I enjoyed working with him and hope that we will work together again in the near future.
Read more
23 Mar, 2016 by Kathy
Attorney Teamer handled the successions for my recently deceased parents. My mother died first, and before her succession was completed my father died. Professional, compassionate and timely legal services made a difficult time less stressful.
Read more
24 Sep, 2014 by Godfrey
Mr. Mason represented us against a group of high-profile and connected individuals in the City of New Orleans. Mr. Mason was a true professional throughout our process. He is very patient, thorough, an excellent researcher and presenter. We trusted our financial and professional lives with Mr. Mason and everything worked out as it should have. I highly recommend Mr. Mason.
Read more
09 Nov, 2012 by Scott krol
This guy is an admiralty guru. He pisses seaweed and says "arrrrrrrrr" when he wakes up. I half expect an eye patch and a jolly Roger flag when I see him. Use him for this work
Read more
20 Jan, 2023 by Brett
Sure glad Jake was working on our side. He is honest, hard working and very intelligent. Jake was well prepared, thorough and communicated our case from a position of strength from his knowledge of all the facts. I would highly recommend him.
Read more
25 Jun, 2014 by Andy
A general contractor failed to pay for the products and services we delivered to them. We approached Liskow and Lewis for assistance in obtaining funds due us by the contractor and their bonding company. We were lucky enough to have Carey Menasco handle this action for us. I firmly believe that through her dedication and perseverence in what was at times a very difficult situation, she was able to obtain a favorable ruling for our company. This year and a half process had many frustrating moments for us, but Carey was always forthright with us and never hesitated to point out the strengths and weaknesses so there were never any surprises. My hats off to this truly dedicated young lady.
Read more
15 Apr, 2015 by Victoria
I got hit by a car on Jan 9th 2014 while riding my bicycle home from work. When I was across the street from my house on St. Charles Ave. a car struck me directly from behind. I suffered a bad injury on my right ankle, my bone was sticking out of my leg. It was the scariest moment of my life.
My friends told me many times that I should do something about this because it was not my fault, and my life got really screwed up for someone else's negligence.
After contacting a couple of lawyers who didn't even hear my case or my explanation of what happened, my best friend contacted me with Roderick. There is no words that can express how grateful I am for all he did for me. Since the first time we spoke on the phone he showed genuine interest on what had happened to me. He is not only an extremely smart person who did an excellent job during the whole case and kept me posted all the time, he is also an emphatic human being and who would fight for what is RIGHT, and that is just not easy to find. We won our case yesterday, but if the result would have been any different, I would still say the same about my lawyer. Thank you a million times for all you did for me. THANK YOU.
Read more
07 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
and promptly burned them.
Tina, I'm sorry for our relationship. But also it was never meant to be!
Read more
19 Jul, 2010 by Jh
I hired Lynn Luker to manage a mass tort docket when I was general counsel of a NYSE company. Lynn quickly earned the respect of the company's Board of Directors for her ability to understand the business implications of the problem and help us reach a solution. Lynn was respected by the plaintiff's bar as well as the defense bar. She proved to be a tough trial lawyer when the need arose and the consummate negotiator with some of the most aggressive plaintiff lawyers in the country. I highly recommend her without any reservation.
Read more
05 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
After my previous attorney relationship, I am glad I made the decision to move my case to the King Firm and Jason Giles. From the minute he took the case, him and his office staff made all the difference. I was previously with another attorney for my car accident and did not receive the attention or satisfaction that I deserved. After telling a friend, they recommended I go meet with Jason Giles. From the moment I walked into the office, I felt a world of difference. Warmly greeted with cookies in the conference room, Jason Giles was a different attorney. I could sense the office presence as well as his sincere desire to help me with my case. After a previous attorney let it "sit" for 9 months, Jason had me a fair settlement within 3. I highly recommend Jason Giles and his firm for any personal injury cases. At the end of the day, it's hard to find someone who loves what they do, but even more, loves to genuinely help others in a bad situation. Jason Giles has these qualities and for those reasons alone I would never go anywhere else. Good people do good things. Thank you!!!!
Read more
16 Sep, 2015 by Russell
Donald Ensenat served as coproate counsel to my startup medical services company years before he took his career to a new level by entering diplomatic service. In my estimation he is one of the finest attorneys you will ever encounter. His network is second to none and if you are fortunate enough to get his assistance you will be amazed at his ability to open doors and introduce you to new resources and people who make your project a success. He is truly a wise counselor who knows how to guide his clients from where they find themselves to where they want to go.
Read more
07 Sep, 2024 by Clint hawkins
I chose Cosse Law Firm based on a recommendation and after having a consult. Chip Cosse had initial discussions with me and scheduled doctors and physical therapy appointments to address my injuries. Attorney Alex Dimitry was assigned to my case. We spoke on the phone, and he gathered all of the information he needed from me and answered all of the questions I had. His goal was to get me as healthy as possible, gather the facts of my case, and have me fairly compensated. He anticipated every aspect of my case and hired the proper professionals to assess my vehicle computer and recreate the accident to show that the driver that struck me from the rear should have been able to avoid the collision. He was with me at my deposition and ensured that it was conducted in a professional manner. After my surgery and deposition he followed up with me in regards to my recovery and to explain any developments with my case. I believe I was fairly compensated as a result of Alex's hard work and attention to detail. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to anyone.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Vaughn gaza
This law firm is very awesome they always listen to there client and they make life much easy.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Corin f
Dudley Deboiser turned my case down when I got into an accident. I contacted Cosse Law Firm and they have been AMAZING! Jamie is super nice and explains any questions you have and is just a pleasure to work with! She also communicates everything that is going on so that you’re not in the dark about your case. I didn’t speak to Katelyn but I want to thank her for working on my case as well! I will definitely use them again in the future if I need to!
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Mona champagne
I was treated very respectfully and my case was handled with absolute integrity. I felt heard and important. Any questions I had were answered timely and when needed I was given an explanation of all steps involved.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Jemarlon franklin
I Trust them they will fight to then end Rudin Law
Read more
25 Aug, 2024 by Brad savant
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.
