Lawyers map
>3.0k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
17 Oct, 2017 by Hoa in north charlotte
Our HOA has retained Diana for approximately 2 years. We have had more than our share of opportunities to engage her services beyond the typical day in the life of an HOA! We have found her to be brutally honest, spot on with her assessments and never self-serving with her advice. She has always advised the most cost effective and reasonable path to resolution as a default! Diana is uber smart, incredibly savvy with understanding finances. In simple terms, she is a warm hearted compassionate attorney. A rare combination!
Read more
11 Oct, 2017 by Mary
After consulting with Diana about the many HOA issues in our neighborhood, the Board decided she was the right attorney for the job. With a neighborhood that was approximately 59% delinquent and inappropriate use of funds by the prior Board members, we knew it was going to be a challenge. With Diana's direction on demand letters, liens and court litigations, the neighborhood is back on track. We recovered the majority of money from the inappropriate use from the prior Board members, all past HOA dues are current with the exception of one, and many neglected issues have been corrected! What an accomplishment after years of struggle for this entire neighborhood! All this could not have been done without Diana's help. We are so grateful to her and Rogers, Townsend & Thomas, PC for a job well done!
Read more
12 Nov, 2015 by Melissa
We hired Mr.Williams to represent us in a civil trial. He went above and beyond what was expected. Throughout the process he kept us extremely informed and explained each step. He is very approachable ...extremely informed in his field. We would highly recommend him to represent anyone.
Read more
13 Jun, 2014 by Jeff
I had the opportunity to work with Kevin after my parents' fatal auto accident with a semi-truck. Kevin worked with all those affected (not just as an attorney, but also as a sounding board at times), and kept us all up-to-date as the lawsuit progressed. He worked with the insurance company for the trucking line, my parents' insurance company, traveled to interview all the parties involved, and was always there to answer any questions we had no matter how trivial we felt they might have been.
I would highly recommend Kevin to anyone looking for a quality attorney who will provide you with honest (both good and bad) answers, and fight for your best interests.
Read more
13 Feb, 2020 by Thomas
Mark practices in a different location than us, though he still gave us good referrals for our location. He was clear, responsive, and helpful.
Read more
21 Feb, 2010 by Anonymous
Excellent lawyer. Able to convey complex estate planning topics in terms that I could understand.
Read more
04 Apr, 2015 by Annemarie
Chet has become one of nation's foremost authorities on Qui Tam litigation. He has done a fantastic job for his clients in this very complex practicare area.
Read more
21 May, 2013 by Lorin
Chet is an outstanding Attorney! Despite my level of ambivalence to come forward regarding my case, Chet ensured me that I was doing the right thing, and he always kept a positive spirit. Chet's representation with perseverance and vast knowledge of the legal landscape won my case. Without any sense of hesitancy, I would recommend Chet.
Read more
25 Feb, 2024 by Chihuahamom15
Mr. Jennings has been our family attorney for a number of years now and he is great. Very knowledgeable and thorough know matter what type of case he is working on. He will not take a case or keep a case going if it is not in his clients best interest. He's very forthcoming and trustworthy and I would recommend him to anyone without hesitation.
Read more
28 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I have consulted with Rob Jennings for a few family law matters and hired him for one. He is approachable and very efficient. He gave me the confidence to approach my legal matter more aggressively. He is good at communicating and knows the law. I will use him for all of my future legal needs.
Read more
19 Jan, 2023 by Deborah
I highly recommend Ann Pilkington of Pilkington Law. She is competent, professional and genuine. She has given me excellent advice and guidance. In addition, she is a truly nice person, both compassionate and kind.
Read more
06 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
My husband and I were recommended to Ms. Pilkington by our Real Estate Agent. This was our first time purchasing a home and Ms. Pilkington was very knowledgable and helped us through the entire process. She made this a very smooth transaction and we highly recommend her to anyone, especially those who are first time home buyers.
Read more
18 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Christian was extremely professional and trustworthy. He made me very prepared as to what would happen with my case and walked me through every step so there would be no confusion. I would definitely hire him if I ever need an attorney in the future.
Read more
08 Jun, 2015 by Mackenzie
I was going to have to pay the court just because my tags were expired, and I have only been driving for a little over a year and a half. Christian Thomas was able to get things settled quickly for me, and the process was very easy on my part; all I had to do was provide my registration and citation.
Read more
05 Jun, 2024 by Caroline
I was in the wrong place at the wrong time, with the case still ongoing. Mr. Morgan is a very thorough and professional person, who went above and beyond for me. Though the case is still ongoing, he has proven his abilities within the court room for me. I haven't had any issues contacting him, he has always been there when I need to speak with him, and he knows Court Rules of Procedure, case law, and how to apply case law during oral arguments and trial. He got my bond reduced by $200,000.00! I recommend him to anyone who needs an experienced professional to go to bat for them, whether it's in traffic, district, or superior court. He also works Avery County sometimes. A very good person, and capable!
Read more
01 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I was given a speeding ticket while working out of town and appointed this attorney. I have had bad luck with court appointed attorneys in the past but unfortunately due to my financial circumstances I had to try this again. This man was very professional and friendly. He seemed to genuinely care about my situation and I was surprisingly impressed. He answered all of my questions and explained everything. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of his services, I can tell he is one of the few good ones left.
Read more
13 Mar, 2017 by Donna and nigel
I can always count on John and his staff to do the best job there is. John is so knowledgeable and asks questions that I would never have thought of. He has done all of our real estate closings, and helped on personal matters as well. I can only recommend him to the highest degree.
Read more
03 Feb, 2010 by Betty
We tried to buy a house that was in foreclosure. Mr. Turner guided us through the messy transaction and gave us excellent advice regarding how to deal with the problems we encountered. He answered our e-mails promptly and precisely, and when we decided we had had enough and bought another house, he was very helpful in guiding us through the process of backing out of a contract and developing another. Both of my children are lawyers and many of our friends are lawyers. I have learned a great deal about the practice of law. Mr. Turner ranks among the top with respect to the professional way he managed our contracts.
Read more
08 Mar, 2013 by Katelin
If you like to be protected, to be informed, to get your legal battle resolved , Chelsea Garrett is all you need. She is professional, trust worthy, and hard working. She is a sharp, organized, and well prepared litigator. She is very good in every aspect as an attorney. I would recommend her to anyone in the region of Boone, NC.
Read more
06 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Chelsea is by far the most trustworthy and responsive lawyer we have experienced. Her knowledge is vast and when faced with an area outside of her specialties, she finds the answer fast with accurate facts. We trust Chelsea and the firm with all matters of law. The cost is very fair, exceptionally fair. The estate is a package price while offers a very comprehensive plan that is very well thought out and executed with answers to questions plus she poses questions that one might not consider, very well thought out. As for business, Operating agreements and many of the partnership type contracts are offered and in a timely manner. Chelsea is very efficient with time and is able to take a long drawn out process and minimize the minor details to return a polished product, contractually and otherwise. Plus, she is ridiculously nice.
Read more
02 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Faced with a payment collection problem Mr. McLawhorn was able to arrange a mediation to try to negotiate the issues and avoid costly litigation. Mclawhorn was well prepared and was able to aggressively point out the pitfalls and downside of the debtors position and secured a full judgment and ultimately collection of the debt. His guidance during the entire process exceeded all our expectations!
Read more
30 May, 2013 by Adrienne
You cannot make a better decision for legal representation than Sonny McLawhorn. Behind his easy-going style and likeability, he is tenacious and not afraid to be aggressive in his representation to make sure your rights are protected. Saying Sonny is exemplary is an understatement. He listens thoroughly to your concerns to get a complete understanding of what legal help you require and always goes the extra mile to achieve it. His knowledge of the law, negotiating skills, integrity and undying work ethic show in his ability to give you unsurpassed representation and attain the best outcome, no matter the situation. I highly recommend Sonny, and I truly feel you cannot be better protected or represented by anyone.
Read more
24 Jul, 2019 by Peter carpenter
Very engaging well versed in social security administration issues, follows up well and shows and becomes engaged in your situation .
Highly recommended Mr. Anthony to help with your case.
Read more
19 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Anthony has been an excellent representative for my child during the horrible social security disability fight. He is very knowledgeable and has kept me well informed throughout the process.
Read more
18 Jan, 2016 by Breonna
GREAT PEOPLE THEY DID A WONDERFUL JOB AND ZEYLAND DOES HAVE A GREAT CROSS EXAMINE. I AM SUPER HAPPY WITH SERVICE AND WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND.
Read more
11 Aug, 2012 by Ronald
Zeyland is an interesting and very competent "country" attorney. He won my criminal case for assault with a belly bump in a pretrial sidebar by getting the judge to laugh about the upcoming case, causing the DA to become uncomfortable and to ask the complainant to drop the charges. So I never got to see him cross examine the complaintant. As the "alleged" belly thumper, I really wanted to see that.
Zeyland has so many cases that getting him to keep you informed is hopeless but his reputation in court in cross-examining witnesses is legendary in Murphy, NC where I live. So yes, I would hire him again!
Read more
20 Sep, 2022 by Christine
Jordan Morris is an extremely professional Attorney who keeps the best interest of her client(s) at the forefront of her focus. Her dedication is second to none. I dealt with another firm and it was difficult to get progress with my case. The Attorney was not as responsive nor determined to ensure a fair outcome was sought after. Once Jordan became my Attorney my mind was at ease. Through various phone calls, emails and personal encounters she was easily approachable and extremely patient. Her direct and passionate approach sets her apart from other Attorneys and firms. I would rehire her if needed without pause. My daughter was fought for; I was fought for. My Toddlers’ voice was heard through Jordan’s voice in court and I am eternally grateful for the outcome of all of her effort and dedication to my case. A MUST hire.
Read more
18 Apr, 2018 by Adam
After consulting serveral Divorce lawyers and firing one I found Jordan. She is a no nonsense professional who always had my best interest in her extremely capable, professional and aggressive hands! She always kept me informed and put my mind at ease. She’s a perfect example of a methodical, cool headed professional who stays 10 steps ahead. I’d recommend her to anyone. If you want the best you hire Jordan Morris!!!
Read more
12 Sep, 2019 by Al
My wife and I recently closed on a new construction home purchase in Black Mountain, NC. We hired Mr. Christy, who had been recommended to us by a close friend who had used him in the past. Our home purchase ended up having several issues that came up after a survey was done that caused a lot of stress for me and my wife. Mr. Christy proved to be a calm, thorough and very experienced attorney and he delayed the release of our money to the builder/seller until every issue was satisfactorily taken care of. The communication we received from him and one of his employees (Donna Farr) was superb and made us feel comfortable and confident throughout the process. This law firm, Stone and Christy will now be our go to law firm for any future legal matters when we arrive in our soon to be new hometown.
Read more
21 May, 2013 by Debbie
Mr. Walker represented me and my siblings in a case against another family member, after our parents passed away. He's very professional and honest. Mr. Walker gave us alot of good advice on how to handle our case. I really beleive he's one of the good guys, not out for just the money! He told me what paper work and things that I could do myself for our case. That saved us alot of money. Him and his staff was always good to return my calls and answer my questions. I highly recommend his services!
Read more
27 Oct, 2014 by Barbara
Adam Tan assisted Woody Connette with legal documents/issues regarding my husband's recent death. I found Adam to always be very informed, compassionate, and approachable. I needed a Widows Allowance in order to sell my husband's truck. The bank holding the title and the car dealer (who was buying the truck back) did not appear to have knowledge of this document and what it represented. Adam took the time to not only call the dealer, but also get on the phone with me and the dealer to explain. Eventually, with his patients and diligence the sale was worked out. When you have circumstances where there is an immediate, unexpected death, a client needs help from someone who has legal knowledge and compassion! I found that in Adam.
Read more
15 Jan, 2018 by Greg
I have known Andrew for over 10 years and he has assisted me on several different matters. Andrew sent a cease and desist letter on a corporate matter and was successful in shutting down the other side. When I was attacked by a dog while delivering he was able to get me a settlement for my injury. He is both professional and personable at the same time. I believe he truly cares about his clients. I know I can count on Andrew to assist me when I call.
I refer business to Andrew every chance I get .
Read more
09 Jul, 2014 by Barton
Attorney Goodwin was very professional from start to finish. She was very hands on and knowledge through the entire case. I was very pleased and will hire her in the future should the need arise.
Read more
02 Sep, 2010 by Eric
I have been a client of Dale Morrison for over 5 years. He has consistently provided sound legal counsel based on decades of experience practicing law. His integrity is unmatched. Dale and his team are very personable and are genuinely concerned about my interests.
Read more
11 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
My husband had a bad accident at work and his company was not helping him with anything. After a while we decided we needed help and we were referred to Brian Hochman by a friend. Mr. Brian took the time to meet with us multiple times and explain the entire process to us. Although the case took a while (not Mr. Brian's fault) my husband finally got his surgery and at the end of the case my husband received what he deserved and we are very grateful our friend recommended Mr. Brian. I would recommend Mr. Brian for anyone who needs a lawyer especially if they had an accident.
Read more
22 Dec, 2013 by Kerri
Donald Vicini is an extremely knowledgeable attorney. I hired him to represent me and defend me in a custody motion initiated by my ex-husband. My case was unique in that it brought in many different elements into my case/argument. Donald is by the book, knows the law, is confident in the courtroom and made me feel at ease, as much as he could, through my day long trial. Along with NC statutes and precedent knowledge, Donald also has the rare gift of "going with the gut" or instinct when knowing what exhibits to show or questions to counter with. He doesn't waste time or badger witnesses. He cuts to the chase and I believe the judge appreciates the respect he shows to even the opposing party in the courtroom. Mr. Vicini tried my case in a county that he is normally not used to and I thought, initially, that his lack of having a reputation in my small town would be a negative, but it certainly wasn't. In fact, the judge congratulated him, complimented him and shook his hand at the conclusion of my hearing. I would definitely use Mr. Vicini again and highly recommend him to others.
Read more
11 Mar, 2019 by Teresa
Attorney David Smith was recommended to me. I called him after hours to leave a message to get see if he would see me with only a very short time before I was about to lose everything. To my surprise. He called me right back. He gave me a day to come and bring everything to him that I had from my mother's mortgage company. From day one. They lead me wrong. I listen to them thinking they were on my side. To my surprise I was in a proceedings of being foreclosed. But that's not the worst. The insurance company also put me last. We pay insurance and we was wrong by listening to mortgage company because the whole time they were telling me everything would work out. Everything fell apart. I was losing with my home and my Insurance Company didn't offer to lead me in any direction. Instead I down graded to a house that I have never in my life been exposed to. And no one was helping me. Court gives you a package about foreclosure help in NC. . I called and wrote and did anyone take time to listen to my story until Attorney Smith. He not only listen. He offered to be by my side. I was almost in tears. I lost my mother, brother and house burnt Down in 59 days. I had to pay for2 funerals and then found myself Homeless. My insurance company didn't advise me. They didn't do anything but offended me with the aqusations that had me run out of the office and dare them to ever speak my name again. I had to fight to get me in a rental 5 months later . I was in grievance and I wasn't thinking staight. With no expense for any clothes, food, or furniture They kept wanting reciepts. I was broke after being homeless. Hotels took what savings I had left. . The power was behind 1200.00 bc the firedepartment didn't cut water off. I was told not to be on property until further notice so my house was robbed and torn to pieces. Vagrancy found in my home serveral times. But today was the first day that I felt like someone actually cared. Thank you Attorney Smith. I know it still isn't over but having someone with your expertise on my side is like night and day. I lost everything I ever owned. I lived outside, I lived with people that I wake up to being touched in my private places. I lived a nightmare that if only one person would listen and help or offer advice. I will never be the same again. But at least I can hold my head up. I promise my mother as she past away at home. " I would fight to save this place for a place
We would always be welcome. That was her dream and after living there for 16 years. 59 days is all it took for me to mess everything up. Yes I blamed myself because I had no one on my side. Everyone wanted me to walk away and let it go. Attorney Smith put the fight back in me. And I will not give up on anything that should have been easy to just make monthly payments and I would have been able to get contractors and be back home by now. I want to Thank you for your time and patience and support. We still have a battle but at least I can stand up and fight back. No one is taking anything that I have worked for. 16 years aren't going away over night. The office and team was so awesome to me today. I do appreciate you giving me my respect back. And for that is all it going to take for me to stand up and tell my story. Thanks so much. Teress
Read more
09 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
She is amazing and she drives me to places.She is a great lawyer and she helped win my case.
Read more
04 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
GOOD RESULTS.
Read more
08 Nov, 2020 by Wayne claiborne
01 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Working with Robert's firm was a good experience. They put my best interests first and had the solid experience that I needed to win my case. I highly recommend this firm.
Read more
28 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I have a nonprofit pet charity. When an "adopter" tried to flip the adopted bird on the Internet, Bray & his team worked hard to ensure his safe & quick return. Bray was very committed & took his life as seriously as we did. Bray & his team are a RARE find & the success of the birds return is greatly appreciated!
Read more
25 Sep, 2017 by Kristen
I hired James Mills to represent my case for a DWI refusal to blow. I was in a severe car accident and was unable to comply due to my injuries. However, I did refuse medical help so I was arrested and taken to jail. I spoke with James within a few days of my arrest and he said we had a strong case but he would not guarantee my outcome. He understood the law well and informed me of what my options were.
Because my case was in a county outside of where he primarily works I did have to sit in court 6 times due to continuances because he was unable to make the appearance. With that being said, we met before my trial in his office and I felt prepared and confident with him as my attorney. The day of my trial, the arresting trooper made several untrue allegations and James was still able to keep the trial on track. He was Thorough and I was found not guilty by the judge. I am very confident that James is a great attorney and will get the job done.
My only recommendation if you hire him is to not expect him to hold your hand. I didn't hear from him much and this being my first time in court, made me nervous because I wasn't sure how the court system worked and what to expect. He did what he was hired to do and he was very kind and very affordable. I would highly recommend him.
Read more
24 May, 2012 by Pam
I used Mr Daniels for a closing, and he made the daunting paperwork seem effortless. He answered all my questions, was prompt and knowledgable.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in North Carolina - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Charlotte
-
Raleigh
-
Durham
-
Greensboro
-
Winston-Salem
-
Wilmington
-
Asheville
-
Chapel Hill
-
Cary
-
Fayetteville
-
Greenville
-
Concord
-
New Bern
-
Gastonia
-
Mooresville
-
Jacksonville
-
Apex
-
High Point
-
Hickory
-
Monroe
-
Salisbury
-
Statesville
-
Matthews
-
Huntersville
-
Hendersonville
-
Wilson
-
Hillsborough
-
Morrisville
-
Goldsboro
-
Rocky Mount
-
Boone
-
Wake Forest
-
Burlington
-
Cornelius
-
Asheboro
-
Lexington
-
Sanford
-
Graham
-
Smithfield
-
Shelby
-
Davidson
-
Lumberton
-
Elizabeth City
-
Pinehurst
-
Waynesville
-
Waxhaw
-
Morganton
-
Fuquay Varina
-
Pittsboro
-
Holly Springs
-
Garner
-
Kernersville
-
Morehead City
-
Carrboro
-
Clayton
-
Washington
-
Kinston
-
Sylva
-
Beaufort
-
Belmont
-
Clemmons
-
Research triangle Park
-
Whiteville
-
Mount Airy
-
Lillington
-
Southern Pines
-
Newton
-
Oxford
-
Rutherfordton
-
Albemarle
-
Lenoir
-
Marion
-
Brevard
-
Rockingham
-
Clinton
-
Wilkesboro
-
Roxboro
-
Southport
-
Henderson
-
Mebane
-
Raeford
-
Louisburg
-
Summerfield
-
Murphy
-
Dunn
-
Knightdale
-
Franklin
-
Reidsville
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in North Carolina
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Litigation
-
Criminal Defense
-
Family Law
-
Personal Injury
-
Estate Planning
-
Government
-
Intellectual Property
-
Workers Compensation
-
Child Custody
-
Appeals
-
Probate
-
Insurance
-
Car Accident
-
Child Support
-
Immigration
-
Tax
-
Civil Rights
-
Consumer Protection
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Domestic Violence
-
Mediation
-
Elder Law
-
Wrongful Death
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Trusts
-
Bankruptcy
-
Juvenile Law
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Debt Collection
-
Foreclosure
-
Divorce
-
Adoption
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Federal Crime
-
DUI / DWI
-
Class Action
-
Entertainment
-
Discrimination
-
Sex Crime
-
Employment / Labor
-
Copyright Application
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Drug Crime
-
Debt Settlement
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Cannabis Law
-
Life Insurance
-
Construction
-
Credit Repair
-
Education Law
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Constitutional Law
-
Contracts
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.
