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01 Jun, 2017 by Morgan
Mr. Klatchko came highly recommended through another law firm to assist in estate probate matters in the greater Palm Springs area of Riverside County. His firm is efficient and gets the job done, with clear communication to the client along the way. I recommend Klatchko without hesitation.
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03 Mar, 2017 by Cynthia and sara
The 5 star rating for Attorney Philip Klatchko (and also his assistant Jolene) is richly deserved. I would have given him a 10 on a 10 point scale, based on interactions to date.
In our case, the actual client was an elderly parent whose mental abilities have been fading. He functioned adeptly as part lawyer and part psychologist and seemed to understand the innuendos of dealing with this category of client and their families. The presentation of all legal documents appeared immaculate. He (and Jolene) responded to and initiated communications in a timely and proactive manner - especially with regards to setting up appointments and replies to emails and "requests." While his services are not cheap, we believe (and have been told by others) that his fees are "well worth it." In our specific case we can highly recommend Attorney Klatchko for estate and trust-related matters of an aging or elderly clientele and their families.
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12 Jun, 2016 by Kerri
Philip Klatchko was my mother's attorney. He managed all arrangements for her Estate and drew her Will. He was incredibly thorough and easy for her to work with.
After my mom passed away, I was appointed Executrix of her Estate. I turned to Philip to help me through this murky process... a job one can't possibly prepare for. Philip was patient, kind, supportive, trustworthy, available and always willing to educate when I needed it. He held my hand through this very confusing and emotional process to the very end.
When the time came to purchase my own home in Los Angeles, Philip assisted me in buying the home from directly from the owner.
I have also consulted Philip on a number of occasions for miscellaneous legal advice. I would recommend him to anyone wholeheartedly.
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16 Jan, 2020 by Texas plaintiff
Shaun represented me in a personal injury matter against a vicious predator and his army of victim blaming lawyers. The case went to trial and Shaun single handedly represented me with honor, dignity, and victory. Six lawyers in the courtroom for the opposing side were no match in the seven day trial against solo Shaun Murphy. I knew after the first interview I had with SBEMP that Shaun Murphy was the only lawyer who would properly handle my type of case. Shaun had the knowledge, experience and proven results in the often misunderstood and sensationalized type of personal injury case he represented me in. I spoke with several lawyers before talking to Shaun and they all wanted to take my case. It was only after Shaun reviewed my case that I felt comfortable in moving forward. It was the best thing I did. Shaun confidently and aggressively pursued justice until the mission was complete. Through pre-trial litigation, trial, appeals, and full collection Shaun was a pillar of integrity. He was always responsive and focused on justice. Shaun is not only a fierce litigator but he has a very high emotional intelligence as well. He knew exactly how to respond to me in my most difficult moments of a long haul. He was a rock solid pillar of strength all the way. I can never thank him enough for all that he did while fighting for me. Impeccable with his word. Impeccable honor. Don't trust your highly sensitive litigations matters to anyone else. Proven experience matters. Litigation with Shaun is not a drill or a legal experiment. He knows exactly what he is doing.
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15 Jan, 2020 by Doug
Shaun Murphy has been my attorney against Riverside County for the past 5 years. At the trial court level, the judge made some very poor decisions against me, which the 4th DCA reversed in full last week. Now I have the opportunity to hold the County accountable for some very serious federal civil rights violations, in addition to several state law torts.
Throughout this long, difficult, and very trying process, Shaun Murphy has been a consummate legal professional. He has been personable, knowledgeable, and responsive to all of my legal needs and requirements. He co-authored a masterful appeal that formed the foundation for the appellate reversal in my favor at the 4th District Court of Appeal. He stood up to the bully man tactics of my legal opponents, and protected my legal rights at every critical juncture. Finally, Shaun Murphy has a feel for the litigation process that is difficult to quantify, but that is tactically invaluable, and it inspires client confidence at every point in the legal process.
I highly recommend Shaun and his team at SBEMP for any and all of your legal needs.
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16 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Shaun Murphy is the best Attorney ever! My experience with him was a personal injury case. I contracted an STD from a man that I had been dating long term, who forgot to tell me that he had herpes before we had sex. The devastation, embarrassment and humiliation was unbelievable. My self worth was gone forever, or so I thought. One night I was watching the news and heard of this Attorney who had just won a 4.5 million dollar law suite for a simular case. I had no idea one could sue for something like this. I called his office the next day, told my story and he took me on as a client. Shaun is dedicated to these types of cases, so I felt no embarrassment when I had to discuss anything with him or anyone in the office. When I felt hopeless, Shaun always brought me strength. He was sure we would reach a settlement, which we eventually did. We had to fly to a different state to meet with the X and his Attorney. Four hours later, we settled! The very first day I spoke with Shaun, he told me that we would settle, but I had so many doubts at that time. I gotta hand it too him.... He sure knew what he was doing. He never gave up!
Not only has Shaun won a settlement for me, but he was instrumental in helping me to believe in myself again and to trust in others. Thank you Shaun for making someone else think twice before spreading an STD around again! "One down..... thousands to go"!
I would not hesitate to hire this man as my Attorney again. Highly recommend him, especially for Personal Injury involving an STD.
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18 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Alan Cohen is the type of attorney that is very refreshing in this day and age. He talks to you about the law but not at you. He was and is very committed to overall best options for my life, utilizing the law for big picture life, family and business strategizing. I highly recommend Alan Cohen as a lawyer for any needs.
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15 Dec, 2018 by Ernesto
"Mr Allan Cohen was a light of hope in one of the darkest times my family has ever experienced. When our options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed almost impossible, not only was he able to defend us from an unjust accusation but his calm and empathetic demeanor offered emotional support to us.
My wife and I are eternally grateful for his service and I hereby recommend Mr Allan Cohen without reservation.”
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15 Dec, 2018 by Lidia
Alan Cohen provided excellent service, demonstrating professionalism and personal attention to all details of our Family Trust, Power of Attorney and Will.
Alan gave us the right advice in every step of the process to prevent any future problems. Alan was also available for questions over the phone after the documents were completed. We are very happy with Alan Cohen's job and will recommend his services to our family and friends.
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10 Jan, 2021 by Dave
First, my sincerest apologies to Chris, Pam, and all the staff for my complete negligence and selfish tardiness in posting these reviews of our experience. My only excuse and defense is that I have been having way too much fun these past few months with the toys I have always hoped for in my “Golden Years” of retirement. I.e. Kubota Tractor, hydraulic dump, flat bed, and now constructing a pole barn to store it.
My wife, I, and our Minnie Aussie departed our Olympia, WA home on the start of a month long retirement “road trip of a lifetime.” On day two we were hit by a drunk driver in Joshua Tree, CA. While we were all relatively unharmed our brand new (3,500 miles) GMC truck was totaled. We returned back to Olympia six days later and asked ourselves, “what the heck just happened and now what?” I sat down and composed a six page narrative of what happened describing what was going on in our lives before, at the time, and after, this horrific incident. At the same time, Leta was searching for a personal injury lawyer. After much debate and settling on two, we flipped a coin and Leta won. I am SO glad she did.
I am confident that this narrative assisted Chris greatly in determining the value of our case and, more importantly, who we are, our history, feelings, dreams, etc. And he was able to achieve this without us ever having hade face to face communication. We did have, however, enjoy many hours on the phone at both the beginning and at the end of our near 18 month association. And none of that time on the phone was created for “billing hours.” It was all on Chris’s dime.
Chris worked tirelessly in communication with both the defendant’s insurance company, as well as ours to obtain the maximum “underinsured motorist” coverage we carry. Ultimately, we were awarded the maximum limits allowable on both policies. We each received two checks, one from the drunk drivers insurance, and one from ours. We just renewed with our insurance and I have not noticed any increase in premium. The only way we could have received more money would have been to go to court with a jury trial. Given our Covid-19 environment and the snail’s pace the court is moving, I believe Chris advised us correctly in accepting the full limit offer. I can never thank this firm enough and would, without hesitancy, recommend them to anyone who has been wrongly injured in the Palm Springs area. I’m still looking forward to footing the bill for a meal at Elmer’s.
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28 Dec, 2020 by Leta
We had the misfortune of being 1200 miles and 2 states away from home when we were broadsided by a drunk driver in Feb. 2019. Our new truck was totaled right in the middle of 29 Palms Highway. Our injuries were not life threatening thanks to air bags and other safety features. We found Christopher Vader, who along with his trusted sidekick, Pam Kitchens, handled all the details, medical billing, communicating with insurance adjusters and providing us with frequent updates. When it seemed like we were preparing to settle with all involved parties, the Courts shut down due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Chris remained optimistic and by mid summer we received the maximum payout awarded by the Insurance companies. We couldn't be happier with the process and outcome. Thank you Chris (and Pam)!
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19 Sep, 2017 by David
Mr. Vader was my choice for attorney for a personal injury event I had in Palm Springs, 1,000 miles away from my home. He listened carefully to my case, evaluated me as much as I did him, and was completely honest about the possible outcomes, promising nothing more than hard and honest work.
And that is what I received; skilled and careful preparation all done with an honestly friendly demeanor that resulted in a fair settlement. I felt included and valued as a client and Mr. Vader respected my own professionalism and communication skills, consulting at all times for consensus and agreement on the path of the case.
When the case settled, Mr. Vader showed the content of his character with clarity. An error of the written word, in the firm's favor, was corrected in my favor, honoring our handshake agreement. And he was the one finding the error, not I.
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30 Oct, 2011 by Dana and terri
My wife and I were the victims of a vexacious litigant and her highly unethical contingency fee attorney. After our young "pitbull" attorney blew through $35,000.00 and then asked for another $35,000.00 we parted ways. We sought the help of two expert witnesses. These two people deal with attorneys on a daily basis. The exact words from them were "99 out of 100 attorneys we would not recommend to you, but we have a high regard for Daniel Martorella. We retained Mr. Martorella and within 3 weeks of him being involved in our case the contingency fee attorney left his client high and dry. It was not long after this that we were cleared of all charges.
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28 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
He is knowledgable, insightful, understanding and intelligent; well-informed; discerning; perceptive and efficeint and helped me with my civil matter avoiding court and saving me money.
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28 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
Thanks to Dan I still have a drivers license to drive my car!!!
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19 Dec, 2014 by Jeff
John is an excellent attorney
He has done excellent work for our city
I am very impressed with his knowledge aND his abilities in court.
John is also not afraid to go to court. Several attorneys I have worked with want you to settle everything John is not like that.
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15 Dec, 2014 by Earl
Mr. John Pinkney is a fabulous, caring and aggressive attorney who knows the law and delivers favorable results to his clients. John's guidance and demeanor along with his excellent staff offer great communication along the way of the issues being addressed. If you are looking for a smart attorney that you can trust and feel at ease with from your initial meeting, I highly recommend John and the services he can offer to resolve the most complex legal issues we face in today's world.
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08 May, 2019 by Carolyn bailey
I needed advise on a contract I was planning on entering into and Ms. McKee pointed out some problems and some possible future problems. We were able to work out a new contract and meet my deadline.
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07 Oct, 2018 by Deanna
I cannot speak highly enough about Mr. Nolan and the legal services he and his firm provided for me in regards to the Unlawful Detainer I had to deal with. Not only is Mr. Nolan compassionate to his clients, but his professionalism and tactics to fight for your rights are tremendous. He knows his way around a courtroom and all legal "mumbo-jumbo", that is without a doubt. If I ever need services in the area again, I would not hesitate at all to contact Mr. Nolan. I honestly cannot speak highly enough about Mr. Nolan, words are just not enough to do his legal services justice, nor anywhere near enough to thank him!
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30 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I contacted Vanessa and she responded right away. She let me know she was not currently accepting new clients but helped me find others who were. She was very courteous and professional.
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15 May, 2024 by D b
Attorney Rhea is a straight shooter, knows his profession well and is very friendly to deal with. If you have any issues in life that require legal support, I would not hesitate to call Joseph Rhea.
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13 May, 2024 by Alex chavira
06 May, 2024 by Adam morales
Definitely recommend Attorney Joseph Rhea. He is very knowledgeable, professional, and downright great at his career. I am a client and will always use him if needed (hopefully not)
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21 May, 2024 by Kevin abrams
Unacceptable experience. See my feedback below to the firm after having an awful experience on what was a very simple request.
"The manner in which your firm has been communicating with me is bizarre and almost robotic...On top of that, there was no material explanation as to why such fees would be necessary. For your reference, I reached out to two of your competitors, all of which promptly responded to me via email with a normal conversation and discussion that involved a human back and forth with questions, and elaboration on my request. It was refreshing. Secondly, the potential fees of up to 4 hours for $550/hour for a reaffirmation were referred to as "ridiculous" not only by your competitors, but from other out-of-state counsel that I have worked with in the past. On top of that, some of which offered alternatives that require no fees whatsoever. In conclusion, the manner in which you conduct business and communicate is not only seemingly fee-driven instead of sincerely helping the needs of a potential client, but also not a fit for me."
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04 Apr, 2024 by Judy garcia
My husband and myself had a great experience with SBEMP, they are very professional and helpful. We had some legal documents taken care of with them and couldn’t have been more pleased. Highly recommend them for all your legal needs.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Charlie calhoun
So, I have a very challenging case. It spans two states and two different courts in Riverside County. Did I mention a very challenging Ex? Long story short, Valarie (probate area of practice) and Carolyn (family law) are amazing. They have fought tooth and nail for me. Let me be clear….this is not a “discount” law firm. The old adage, you get what you pay for. I needed competent hard working lawyers. Lawyers who knew the ins and out of each issue. That is what I got. Their guidance was/is worth every penny. These two women are amazing and I am so thankful for finding them. I can’t speak for anything outside of family law or probate, but I can tell you if you have an issue in these two areas, use them.
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21 May, 2024 by Kevin abrams
Unacceptable experience. See my feedback below to the firm after having an awful experience on what was a very simple request.
"The manner in which your firm has been communicating with me is bizarre and almost robotic...On top of that, there was no material explanation as to why such fees would be necessary. For your reference, I reached out to two of your competitors, all of which promptly responded to me via email with a normal conversation and discussion that involved a human back and forth with questions, and elaboration on my request. It was refreshing. Secondly, the potential fees of up to 4 hours for $550/hour for a reaffirmation were referred to as "ridiculous" not only by your competitors, but from other out-of-state counsel that I have worked with in the past. On top of that, some of which offered alternatives that require no fees whatsoever. In conclusion, the manner in which you conduct business and communicate is not only seemingly fee-driven instead of sincerely helping the needs of a potential client, but also not a fit for me."
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04 Apr, 2024 by Judy garcia
My husband and myself had a great experience with SBEMP, they are very professional and helpful. We had some legal documents taken care of with them and couldn’t have been more pleased. Highly recommend them for all your legal needs.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Charlie calhoun
So, I have a very challenging case. It spans two states and two different courts in Riverside County. Did I mention a very challenging Ex? Long story short, Valarie (probate area of practice) and Carolyn (family law) are amazing. They have fought tooth and nail for me. Let me be clear….this is not a “discount” law firm. The old adage, you get what you pay for. I needed competent hard working lawyers. Lawyers who knew the ins and out of each issue. That is what I got. Their guidance was/is worth every penny. These two women are amazing and I am so thankful for finding them. I can’t speak for anything outside of family law or probate, but I can tell you if you have an issue in these two areas, use them.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Kevin abrams
Unacceptable experience. See my feedback below to the firm after having an awful experience on what was a very simple request.
"The manner in which your firm has been communicating with me is bizarre and almost robotic...On top of that, there was no material explanation as to why such fees would be necessary. For your reference, I reached out to two of your competitors, all of which promptly responded to me via email with a normal conversation and discussion that involved a human back and forth with questions, and elaboration on my request. It was refreshing. Secondly, the potential fees of up to 4 hours for $550/hour for a reaffirmation were referred to as "ridiculous" not only by your competitors, but from other out-of-state counsel that I have worked with in the past. On top of that, some of which offered alternatives that require no fees whatsoever. In conclusion, the manner in which you conduct business and communicate is not only seemingly fee-driven instead of sincerely helping the needs of a potential client, but also not a fit for me."
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04 Apr, 2024 by Judy garcia
My husband and myself had a great experience with SBEMP, they are very professional and helpful. We had some legal documents taken care of with them and couldn’t have been more pleased. Highly recommend them for all your legal needs.
Read more
08 Mar, 2024 by Charlie calhoun
So, I have a very challenging case. It spans two states and two different courts in Riverside County. Did I mention a very challenging Ex? Long story short, Valarie (probate area of practice) and Carolyn (family law) are amazing. They have fought tooth and nail for me. Let me be clear….this is not a “discount” law firm. The old adage, you get what you pay for. I needed competent hard working lawyers. Lawyers who knew the ins and out of each issue. That is what I got. Their guidance was/is worth every penny. These two women are amazing and I am so thankful for finding them. I can’t speak for anything outside of family law or probate, but I can tell you if you have an issue in these two areas, use them.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Kevin abrams
Unacceptable experience. See my feedback below to the firm after having an awful experience on what was a very simple request.
"The manner in which your firm has been communicating with me is bizarre and almost robotic...On top of that, there was no material explanation as to why such fees would be necessary. For your reference, I reached out to two of your competitors, all of which promptly responded to me via email with a normal conversation and discussion that involved a human back and forth with questions, and elaboration on my request. It was refreshing. Secondly, the potential fees of up to 4 hours for $550/hour for a reaffirmation were referred to as "ridiculous" not only by your competitors, but from other out-of-state counsel that I have worked with in the past. On top of that, some of which offered alternatives that require no fees whatsoever. In conclusion, the manner in which you conduct business and communicate is not only seemingly fee-driven instead of sincerely helping the needs of a potential client, but also not a fit for me."
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04 Apr, 2024 by Judy garcia
My husband and myself had a great experience with SBEMP, they are very professional and helpful. We had some legal documents taken care of with them and couldn’t have been more pleased. Highly recommend them for all your legal needs.
Read more
08 Mar, 2024 by Charlie calhoun
So, I have a very challenging case. It spans two states and two different courts in Riverside County. Did I mention a very challenging Ex? Long story short, Valarie (probate area of practice) and Carolyn (family law) are amazing. They have fought tooth and nail for me. Let me be clear….this is not a “discount” law firm. The old adage, you get what you pay for. I needed competent hard working lawyers. Lawyers who knew the ins and out of each issue. That is what I got. Their guidance was/is worth every penny. These two women are amazing and I am so thankful for finding them. I can’t speak for anything outside of family law or probate, but I can tell you if you have an issue in these two areas, use them.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Kevin abrams
Unacceptable experience. See my feedback below to the firm after having an awful experience on what was a very simple request.
"The manner in which your firm has been communicating with me is bizarre and almost robotic...On top of that, there was no material explanation as to why such fees would be necessary. For your reference, I reached out to two of your competitors, all of which promptly responded to me via email with a normal conversation and discussion that involved a human back and forth with questions, and elaboration on my request. It was refreshing. Secondly, the potential fees of up to 4 hours for $550/hour for a reaffirmation were referred to as "ridiculous" not only by your competitors, but from other out-of-state counsel that I have worked with in the past. On top of that, some of which offered alternatives that require no fees whatsoever. In conclusion, the manner in which you conduct business and communicate is not only seemingly fee-driven instead of sincerely helping the needs of a potential client, but also not a fit for me."
Read more
04 Apr, 2024 by Judy garcia
My husband and myself had a great experience with SBEMP, they are very professional and helpful. We had some legal documents taken care of with them and couldn’t have been more pleased. Highly recommend them for all your legal needs.
Read more
08 Mar, 2024 by Charlie calhoun
So, I have a very challenging case. It spans two states and two different courts in Riverside County. Did I mention a very challenging Ex? Long story short, Valarie (probate area of practice) and Carolyn (family law) are amazing. They have fought tooth and nail for me. Let me be clear….this is not a “discount” law firm. The old adage, you get what you pay for. I needed competent hard working lawyers. Lawyers who knew the ins and out of each issue. That is what I got. Their guidance was/is worth every penny. These two women are amazing and I am so thankful for finding them. I can’t speak for anything outside of family law or probate, but I can tell you if you have an issue in these two areas, use them.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Kevin abrams
Unacceptable experience. See my feedback below to the firm after having an awful experience on what was a very simple request.
"The manner in which your firm has been communicating with me is bizarre and almost robotic...On top of that, there was no material explanation as to why such fees would be necessary. For your reference, I reached out to two of your competitors, all of which promptly responded to me via email with a normal conversation and discussion that involved a human back and forth with questions, and elaboration on my request. It was refreshing. Secondly, the potential fees of up to 4 hours for $550/hour for a reaffirmation were referred to as "ridiculous" not only by your competitors, but from other out-of-state counsel that I have worked with in the past. On top of that, some of which offered alternatives that require no fees whatsoever. In conclusion, the manner in which you conduct business and communicate is not only seemingly fee-driven instead of sincerely helping the needs of a potential client, but also not a fit for me."
Read more
04 Apr, 2024 by Judy garcia
My husband and myself had a great experience with SBEMP, they are very professional and helpful. We had some legal documents taken care of with them and couldn’t have been more pleased. Highly recommend them for all your legal needs.
Read more
08 Mar, 2024 by Charlie calhoun
So, I have a very challenging case. It spans two states and two different courts in Riverside County. Did I mention a very challenging Ex? Long story short, Valarie (probate area of practice) and Carolyn (family law) are amazing. They have fought tooth and nail for me. Let me be clear….this is not a “discount” law firm. The old adage, you get what you pay for. I needed competent hard working lawyers. Lawyers who knew the ins and out of each issue. That is what I got. Their guidance was/is worth every penny. These two women are amazing and I am so thankful for finding them. I can’t speak for anything outside of family law or probate, but I can tell you if you have an issue in these two areas, use them.
Read more
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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.
