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23 Jun, 2020 by Richard
Mr. Dean and his staff were exceptional, caring, and professional. They handled an estate matter and I could not be more pleased. I would highly recommend Mr. Dean.
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07 Mar, 2019 by Christine
John helped me out so much with a situation I had residing in one state and owning property in another. He speaks in a manner that is soothing and easy to understand, he completely leveled with me about what my options were. He adamantly listened and related to every single question I had, you can tell he has a passion in his profession.
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09 May, 2018 by Josh
We hired Jon and Advantage Title to help us with a real estate issue and conduct a sale transaction. Jon was very knowledgeable about the issue; he took the time to listen to me and my ideas; he explained legal concepts in terms that I could understand; and ultimately, he and his Team helped us achieve an ideal solution. Then, Linda Denby (one of Jon's associates) at Advantage Title conducted a smooth and easy sales transaction. Jon and his Team are some of the best that I have ever worked with, and I will certainly call them first if we ever need their services again. THANK YOU Dean & Dean.
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02 Oct, 2013 by Jerrie
HAVING WORKED FOR & WITH ATTORNEYS UNTIL MY RETIREMENT, I WOULD SAY THAT MR. SHEA IS ONE OF THE BEST. DURING A REAL ESTATE LITIGATION CASE IN WHICH I WAS REPRESENTED BY LOCAL COUNSE FOR A PERIOD OF 5 YEARS (TO NO AVAIL), MR. SHEA CAME TO THE RESCUE & FAVORABLY RESOLVED THE SITUATION WITHIN A PERIOD OF 6 MONTHS, MUCH TO MY MENTAL & MONETARY RELIEF. MORE RECENTLY HE HAS HANDLED ESTATE PLANNING FOR ME & HAS BEEN ON 'STANDBY,' INTERMITTENTLY, IN CASE HE IS NEEDED.
PRIOR TO THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED LITIGATION, & INVOLVEMENT WITH COUNSEL WHO COULD CARE LESS, I WAS A 'TRUE BELIEVER' IN THE LAW & THOSE WHO ARGUED FOR & AGAINST IT. SINCE THAT TIME , HOWEVER, I HAD BECOME A SORT OF CYNICAL SCEPTIC ; THAT IS,UNTIL I CAME ACROSS THE LIKES OF DENNIS: MILD MANNERED, RESPONSIVE, TENACIOUS & BRILLIANT BESIDES; - - WHAT MORE COULD ONE WANT WHEN HIRING AN ATTORNEY?
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05 Jun, 2012 by Sheri
Mr. Shea is unlike any Attorney I have ever dealt with, he truly cares about his clients, which is so hard to find in an Attorney, actually nearly impossible.
I felt hopeless after numerous conversations with other Attorneys, rushing me as I spoke about my painful legal situation, no compassion at all, it was horrible. That is why I felt compelled to share this with you, and give you hope that there really is an amazing, caring Attorney that will restore your faith in the judicial system.
Mr. Shea takes time with you he listens intently in order to understand all of the details involved in your case.
He is a phenomenal Attorney, and an extraordinary human being that exudes the utmost integrity. In the courtroom he flourishes with his expertise, and his articulate dialog that is quite engaging to watch.
My case was very complex, and required a well versed, hard working Attorney. Mr. Shea invested endless hours of time working on my case for over 2 years, and through it all he was confident we would prevail.
He helped me through the most difficult times in my life, and I am grateful that I found him. He won my case against 6 other attorneys, I said "Dennis you rock" and he certainly does!!!
I highly recommend Dennis Shea; he is a true professional with a compassionate heart, and definitely one of a kind! Oh and Brilliant too...
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05 Jun, 2012 by Brad
Highly Recommend!
I cannot say enough good things about Mr. Shea, he really does set the bar when it comes to Attorney's, no pun intended...My initial visit was over an hour long he took so much time with me going over every detail, and no charge. No pressure, no contract I was shocked due to my past experiences with attorney's. I did not hesitate in retaining his services, and he knocked the ball right out of the park...home run! Dennis is genuine, honest, caring, and knows his law like nobody. Going through any legal situation is extremely difficult but having an attorney you can entrust with everything makes all the difference in the world. Thank you Dennis!
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22 Aug, 2018 by Dick
Yeah, From my experience with him: good lawyer. I'd love to use him for consultation / advice... remember you get what you pay for!
I. unfortunately, forgot that , to my peril !
Remember, local politics are very important!
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22 Jul, 2010 by Marty
Brad was able to help me with a specific legal matter that had been causing me great stress for some time. With his guidance I was able to put this matter to rest faster than I ever thought possible. I cannot thank him enough. He is highly competent, pleasant to talk with and I would recommend Brad to anyone.
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24 Jun, 2010 by Marty
After the death of my wife, I was beset with probate and real estate issues that I could not handle. Mr. Merriam's expertise and manner put me at ease. I feel that these matters are now being handled in the best way possible and I feel fortunate to have found Mr. Merriam on Avvo.com. I highly recommend Mr. Merriam.
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19 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
I had several legal issues involving a fraud case perpetrated against my elderly aunt. I have worked with many attorneys in several states & Gary was one of the top two in my life's experience. He was unique in that he responded very quickly to e-mails almost 24 hours a day. He is past president of the Ohio Bar which should tell you more than any rating service. He was thorough and accurate in his assessment and recommended actions and he had a common sense approach to a difficult legal problem. He was also very personable in dealing with my elderly and somewhat difficult aunt. I ended up using his services for an issue in Florida as well, which he also was able to settle for me, somewhat to my surprise, as I had been working on that for a couple of years with other legal counsel (he is licensed in Florida also). Fees were not cheap, but were very reasonable for the services provided. I can recommend this man without reservation, especially for cases requiring good interpersonal skills to resolve. I can only indicate one area below in type of cases, but he handled divorce settlement for my daughter and estate work for my aunt as well.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Ronald warren ii
Did really good job for me
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08 Oct, 2024 by Sean kerr
Thank you to cosmo bloom and Dan Newlin for helping me to the best of your ability.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Niki austin
I had the pleasure of working with Cosmo Bloom from Dan Newlin Injury Attorney and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the outcome. I highly recommend for future services.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Ronald warren ii
Did really good job for me
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08 Oct, 2024 by Sean kerr
Thank you to cosmo bloom and Dan Newlin for helping me to the best of your ability.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Niki austin
I had the pleasure of working with Cosmo Bloom from Dan Newlin Injury Attorney and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the outcome. I highly recommend for future services.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Ronald warren ii
Did really good job for me
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08 Oct, 2024 by Sean kerr
Thank you to cosmo bloom and Dan Newlin for helping me to the best of your ability.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Niki austin
I had the pleasure of working with Cosmo Bloom from Dan Newlin Injury Attorney and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the outcome. I highly recommend for future services.
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14 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Worst atourney in town, a waste of time and money hiring this atourney. Very arrogant, egomaniac and very rude, won't keep you properly informed on your case. Barely answer, return, calls text and email. Always respond with a bad attitude to your questions.
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19 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I cannot thank Henry enough for what he did for our family! I highly recommend his services to anyone who is need of a professional,knowledgeable,experienced lawyer he is one of the best out there!
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09 Jul, 2022 by Manuel
I was arrested and charged with molesting my nine year old son. The charges were false. The first lawyer charged me 12k only to tell me to enter a plea to seven years in prison.
I then hired Judge Ferro…he investigated the case, hired experts, challenged the state witnesses and was ready for trial. Because of his work and belief in me the State Attorney decided to dismiss the charges.
Judge Ferro was worth every penny he was paid; he was knowledgeable, competent and able to put together a battle plan that gave me my life back.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Gabriel albu
Do not use
Once u pay and realize
You have to pay another lawyer to get Justice
Years of regret and theft of
Your money
This is a cop lawyer only
Not for public use
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19 Mar, 2024 by Lmf productions
Listen! When I say they handle the business! THEY HANDLE THEY BUSINESS!Charges DISMISSED! Thanks guys
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16 Mar, 2024 by Dane morris
28 Aug, 2024 by Sean daniels
Extremely pleased with this firm! Very experienced and professional. Kris has handled a variety of different cases for me with great results. Highly recommend using them!
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25 Aug, 2024 by Mike gross
Very experienced in matters relating to my case. Would highly recommend.
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18 Aug, 2024 by Amanda hernandez
Kris is an amazing attorney. He knows his rights! He listens to his clients and cares about what they deserve! I would absolutely recommend him. He represented my husband against his ex wife and exceeded our expectations❣️
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02 May, 2024 by Alanna moore
*** Buyers Beware *** It took me months to gather my thoughts as to not review this Law Firm hastily. I attempted to resolve this with the Attorney's Office, Realtor and Sellers. Sorry, this review is not short. At the end of September of 2023, my husband and I closed on our first home together. This is just a little 900 sq ft fixer upper to live out our lives in.
You hope and pray that when you buy a home that a Lawyer's Ethical and Moral Code is beyond reproach. Not with this Attorney (Mutarelli), or the closing associate (Samantha). In my Closing documents I was responsible for for the last 3 months of the year, and the Sellers were to pay the 9 months prior. This is in my closing documents in "Black and White". The issue was the "Assessed Taxes". They were not disclosed to us at closing even though the Tax Office when I went in to file Homestead Exemption informed me that Trim Notices were sent out to the Sellers and apparently is "Public" Knowledge, Something that a line of Attorneys, Title Companies, and Realtors would have known and had "Experience" in since this is nothing new in any closing. Just to catch you up (Buyers beware) The taxes at closing were assessed at the prior year $ 482.11. not the 2023 taxes when we actually closed. That meant my taxes for 2023 that I should only have been responsible for jumped from (3) months of the $482.11 owed to $2,555.32 when I went in to file Homestead Exemption. Not *One single person is owning up to this nor taking responsibility as I hate to say it, the little guy remains the underdog. To avoid further penalties, we were forced to pay these taxes, and my only step is not in my budget. This is a very hard lesson for a simple blue collar worker to accept. I guess my moral compass is one of hard work, honesty, and always "Integrity" in all things. No, Life is not fair, and that I can live with, but "Ethical Behavior and "Accountability for what is right in the one thing I have always held most closely to how a person should live their life.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jc pauly
05 Sep, 2023 by J w
The Worst ! Different numbers for closing , not organized , A complete mess! Asking for More Money after all the paperwork is completed ! I talked to 20 people it doesnt happen you dont pay More Money after you have the keys and everything is signed. Lawyers are scum of the earth along with Mortgage people
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02 May, 2024 by Alanna moore
*** Buyers Beware *** It took me months to gather my thoughts as to not review this Law Firm hastily. I attempted to resolve this with the Attorney's Office, Realtor and Sellers. Sorry, this review is not short. At the end of September of 2023, my husband and I closed on our first home together. This is just a little 900 sq ft fixer upper to live out our lives in.
You hope and pray that when you buy a home that a Lawyer's Ethical and Moral Code is beyond reproach. Not with this Attorney (Mutarelli), or the closing associate (Samantha). In my Closing documents I was responsible for for the last 3 months of the year, and the Sellers were to pay the 9 months prior. This is in my closing documents in "Black and White". The issue was the "Assessed Taxes". They were not disclosed to us at closing even though the Tax Office when I went in to file Homestead Exemption informed me that Trim Notices were sent out to the Sellers and apparently is "Public" Knowledge, Something that a line of Attorneys, Title Companies, and Realtors would have known and had "Experience" in since this is nothing new in any closing. Just to catch you up (Buyers beware) The taxes at closing were assessed at the prior year $ 482.11. not the 2023 taxes when we actually closed. That meant my taxes for 2023 that I should only have been responsible for jumped from (3) months of the $482.11 owed to $2,555.32 when I went in to file Homestead Exemption. Not *One single person is owning up to this nor taking responsibility as I hate to say it, the little guy remains the underdog. To avoid further penalties, we were forced to pay these taxes, and my only step is not in my budget. This is a very hard lesson for a simple blue collar worker to accept. I guess my moral compass is one of hard work, honesty, and always "Integrity" in all things. No, Life is not fair, and that I can live with, but "Ethical Behavior and "Accountability for what is right in the one thing I have always held most closely to how a person should live their life.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jc pauly
05 Sep, 2023 by J w
The Worst ! Different numbers for closing , not organized , A complete mess! Asking for More Money after all the paperwork is completed ! I talked to 20 people it doesnt happen you dont pay More Money after you have the keys and everything is signed. Lawyers are scum of the earth along with Mortgage people
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02 May, 2024 by Alanna moore
*** Buyers Beware *** It took me months to gather my thoughts as to not review this Law Firm hastily. I attempted to resolve this with the Attorney's Office, Realtor and Sellers. Sorry, this review is not short. At the end of September of 2023, my husband and I closed on our first home together. This is just a little 900 sq ft fixer upper to live out our lives in.
You hope and pray that when you buy a home that a Lawyer's Ethical and Moral Code is beyond reproach. Not with this Attorney (Mutarelli), or the closing associate (Samantha). In my Closing documents I was responsible for for the last 3 months of the year, and the Sellers were to pay the 9 months prior. This is in my closing documents in "Black and White". The issue was the "Assessed Taxes". They were not disclosed to us at closing even though the Tax Office when I went in to file Homestead Exemption informed me that Trim Notices were sent out to the Sellers and apparently is "Public" Knowledge, Something that a line of Attorneys, Title Companies, and Realtors would have known and had "Experience" in since this is nothing new in any closing. Just to catch you up (Buyers beware) The taxes at closing were assessed at the prior year $ 482.11. not the 2023 taxes when we actually closed. That meant my taxes for 2023 that I should only have been responsible for jumped from (3) months of the $482.11 owed to $2,555.32 when I went in to file Homestead Exemption. Not *One single person is owning up to this nor taking responsibility as I hate to say it, the little guy remains the underdog. To avoid further penalties, we were forced to pay these taxes, and my only step is not in my budget. This is a very hard lesson for a simple blue collar worker to accept. I guess my moral compass is one of hard work, honesty, and always "Integrity" in all things. No, Life is not fair, and that I can live with, but "Ethical Behavior and "Accountability for what is right in the one thing I have always held most closely to how a person should live their life.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Jc pauly
05 Sep, 2023 by J w
The Worst ! Different numbers for closing , not organized , A complete mess! Asking for More Money after all the paperwork is completed ! I talked to 20 people it doesnt happen you dont pay More Money after you have the keys and everything is signed. Lawyers are scum of the earth along with Mortgage people
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19 Mar, 2022 by Donna lane
04 Mar, 2022 by Nancy chrisman
They responded the same day called me and told me where I needed to go.
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19 May, 2021 by William taylor
Russ Lapeer appears to be the type of Attorney that hides behind a receptionist. He is currently withholding a copy of a family trust from a beneficiary and possible executor, (wouldn't know because we have not seen it) and refuses to return a call to the person who has a right to have a copy. He has not returned one of several documented calls to his office. He and his staff has not responded to an email.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Kory jones
Very kind and efficient
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28 Jun, 2024 by Marisabel figueroa
Fast help
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28 Jun, 2024 by Darryl pryor
Easy process
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28 Jun, 2024 by Kory jones
Very kind and efficient
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28 Jun, 2024 by Marisabel figueroa
Fast help
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28 Jun, 2024 by Darryl pryor
Easy process
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31 Jul, 2024 by Jeff
Jeff Jamison
1 review
3 minutes ago
NEW
I just got off the phone with Jennifer Darley's secretary jessica, whom I will say is a very rude person and not helpful at all. I called into the office 2 1/2 months ago and paid an OUTRAGEOUS $300 consultation with Mrs. Darley only to be rescheduled 3 times, and when I did finally speak with her.......it was for 10 min. She asked me to gather paperwork from my children's school, which I did, and then submit it to her office. I was told by Jennifer herself she would contact me back and never did. Contacted her office on July 26 and was promised i'd be contacted back by Monday to no avail. As matter fact i was told by jessica that jennifer might not even take my case anyways and she had to contact her about it. When I contacted her office this morning and asked for a refund I was told no and hung up on after I said she was rude and I'd be contacting the bar against her. I WOULD NEVER RECOMMEND HER TO ANYONE. My license is now suspended for child support and my life upside down in a sense in that area. KATHRYN BENNETT AND MS. ALLEY ARE AMAZING AND AWESOME AND THIS DOES NOT PERTAIN TO THEM
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01 Jan, 2023 by Chris gilbert
Took my money and didn’t do a dam thing for me !! Runnnnn away from this crook of an attorney as fast as you can !!
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18 Oct, 2022 by Jamie biggs
They are a very kind and caring staff very great attorneys if you're looking for the best family attorney in Marion county then this is definitely them just know the best comes with a cost if you want a cheap attorney go somewhere else but don't expect great results when you go cheap. They were always courteous kind and polite answered the phones always return my messages notified me when they received my emails I would highly recommend them if you need a family attorney for custody.
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01 Jan, 2023 by Chris gilbert
Took my money and didn’t do a dam thing for me !! Runnnnn away from this crook of an attorney as fast as you can !!
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18 Oct, 2022 by Jamie biggs
They are a very kind and caring staff very great attorneys if you're looking for the best family attorney in Marion county then this is definitely them just know the best comes with a cost if you want a cheap attorney go somewhere else but don't expect great results when you go cheap. They were always courteous kind and polite answered the phones always return my messages notified me when they received my emails I would highly recommend them if you need a family attorney for custody.
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06 Jun, 2022 by Joseph tyson
11 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Got my DUI reduced to a reckless driving which avoided pretty big consequences. I'm not sure about the anonymous person who said something about "getting credit" for DL suspension, that isn't how it works. You get credit for jail time, the DL suspension isn't even something the judge CAN "credit" time for no matter who your lawyer is. I know this because it was my 3rd DUI charge! But keep listening to your jailhouse "lawyer" friends if you think that works for you. Mr. Powers took care of my case when things didn't look so good and he got me a better deal than I could have ever hoped for. He wanted to go to trial in my case, and it's possible I could have done even better, I just didn't want the risk when he ALSO got me a really good offer by pointing out how the officers had screwed up. Hopefully I'll never be in trouble again, but if I am, he'll be the first call I make.
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11 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Failed to negotiate a good plea deal but accepted the first one to come along and failed to get credit for 3 1/2 months loss of D L for a year suspension . Most lawyers get credit for their clients both for jail time and loss of D L. I should have listened to some people when I was told not to get a lawyer from Ocala .{ because its the good old boy system}
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01 Feb, 2017 by Kristen
My brother was accused of a terrible crime that could have ended in 10-25years in jail. Jeremy thouroughly explained everything To me from the beginning while my brother was in jail from the charges awaiting a bail hearing. He did everything he said. He asked articulate questions during the trial and killed the closing statement. Thank you so much!!!!
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29 Jul, 2021 by Chris
A) He received a DUI...going 97 MPH while 100% intoxicated...could have killed someone.
https://www.villages-news.com/2020/11/22/attorney-from-weirsdale-nabbed-on-dui-after-clocked-driving-at-97-mph/
B) He sent me a "Cease And Desist Demand Letter"...making "civil and criminal threats"...I HAVE NEVER MEET, TEXT AND/OR CONTACTED AND/OR SPOKEN TO HIS "CLIENTS”...THAT BEING IN ANY CAPACITY WHATSOEVER...HOW AM I GOING TO "Cease And Desist ".
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27 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Patrick is one of the very few lawyers I have come across that is not only honest, he is genuine. He takes pride in helping his clients every way that he can.
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18 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
Never in my entire life have I seen such incompetence in a "Professional". From the beginning of Probate, until I discharged him to hire another attorney ...to do the Probate all over after paying the fees of over $5000 that he demanded! Not recommended!
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02 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Please review Florida Bar before pursuing the services of this lawyer. If I can give him a zero, I will. Not only did he display a lack of empathy for my case, he did absolutely nothing to show that he worked for my case at all. Shocked at his behavior, I reviewed Florida Bar records and found to my shock that the bar association had used certain words I would consider "shocking" to describe this lawyer. Please research carefully all lawyers before contracting their services. You are paying them and you have the right to know the cases they work on, the outcome of the cases and how they keep up with the paperwork. We have had enough with this one!
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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.
