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19 Mar, 2024 by Bikram
We reached out to Josh looking for a local lawyer who understood real estate law in Alameda and Contra Costa County. Furthermore, his understanding of both tent and landlord rights was instrumental in our decisions on how to proceed as we were concerned with our liability as we had documented everything to the best of our abilities and never thought we would be in this predicament fighting to keep what was ours. With Josh services and persistence we were able to avoid a lengthy and draining legal battle due to Josh through review of our case and his outline of approaches available to us (each with pros and cons detailed), reminding us that all of these options will result in justice and fairness but all with various timelines and costs. As we prepared for a lengthy battle Josh persisted to communicate with the other party convincing them that it was in their favor to resolve the issue quickly and justly.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Fred
Josh has handled business matters for my partnership as well as personal matters. He's been very constructive and provided valuable advice. And, notably, he listened to our needs and worked with us to find workable solutions.
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14 Nov, 2023 by Raquel b
He was so very helpful! He is not your typical lawyer, he's very personable and very kind! I appreciated him very much.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Leah perez
Archana Srivastava, Esq. is a wonderful lawyer. She has helped me navigate custody issues with a difficult ex husband. I wish I had taken the advice she gave me in several instances. I should have listened to her because she was trying to guide me to compromising on things instead of fighting my ex. I regret not listening to her more because she knew what she was talking about. She wanted to resolve things in a constructive way which is one of the many reasons why I think Archana is a great lawyer.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Casey
When I contacted Kristen, she was very prompt and thorough. I worked with Hilary and she was able to handle everything I needed for my businesses. They are both very professional and are a pleasure to work with. I recommend contacting Integrated General Counsel for all your business needs!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Faye guarienti
We feel so happy have met Brian Quall when we needed to update our living Trust. We are elderly, but never felt the least bit condescended to. Brian was so kind and clear about the process and answered any and all questions that we had. He informed us of all that was required from us and what his role and responsibilities were. After signing the final document we breathed a sigh of relief and realized just how easy and painless the process was for us thanks to Brian's expertise.
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10 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I consulted with Mr. Somal informally re: some debt problems I was facing. He took time out of his schedule to walk me through my options very thoroughly and directly.
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30 Nov, 2021 by Lc
I consulted Mr. Somal on a judgment I needed settled for me. He was professional and very responsive to me the entire time. I would definitely suggest him to anyone looking for legal help.
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17 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired attorney Gurbob Singh Somali to represent me in my bankruptcy case. I found his very attentive, understanding and thoroughly knowledgeable of the case that he represented. Everything from preparing, submitting and representing me as my attorney is very highly intelligent. I found no confusion when working with him. He always have a prompt response whenever there is questions. So, we finally finish the case to my benefit, we won. I strongly recommend him for his knowledge, intelligent, and reputation as an attorney that you can depend on. He is the best.
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20 Nov, 2014 by Danielle
In March of 2014, I contacted the Law offices of Steven Jacobs with some questions regarding an issue I was having with the Bay area toll authority and the registration on my car. I was in over my head with fees and it seemed like bankruptcy was the only option. Austin was assigned to my case and he went above and beyond with the research before I even retained him as my lawyer. The gist, I needed to know whether or not filing for bankruptcy would help my situation, and release the hold on my registration. He researched for a week and gave me 2 options. I felt absolutely no pressure, and I never felt like he was trying to get one over on me. In May 2014, I decided to file, and up until his departure, he kept me updated. He constantly kept in contact to ensure that I was understanding the entire process and he made sure that I was comfortable with all decisions including, my trustee payments. He even got my payment date changed for me! He and his staff did all of the work, while I only provided the information he requested. I always felt that he had my best interest at heart, and I never felt like this was just another case to him. He took on my case, not knowing what kind of work in entailed, and I know that my case was a very unusual case. He would take the time, outside of business hours even, to call and make sure that I understood what was happening and was comfortable with the next step. I so appreciate his patience and his commitment to making sure this was the best decision.
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03 Apr, 2014 by Albert
Austin is a well spoken no nonsense attorney. He actually help me recover funds that were taken from my Social Security during by recent BK. He researched past legal cases on his off time in order to recover several hundred dollars from the Treasury Dept. If you're looking for a soldier in law, call Austin.
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02 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
I am so pleased to write this review for Tod. I was recommended to Garcia & Gurney by a friend of mine. I was in need of a lawyer and had exhausted all viable lawfirms that were on my list. I'm so happy to have found Tod. He was exactly what I was looking for and needed. He was so kind, thorough and patient with me. Having never been in a situation such as this, I did not know what to expect. Tod and his teams meticulous preparation enabled me to move forward with my suit with confidence and certainty. The result was more than I had expected and I am thrilled. I would recommend Tod and his firm to those who are unfortunate enough to be in this situation. He truly cares, knows the law and will get you the help you need.
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02 May, 2014 by Dave
I spent over a year trying to obtain visitation of my son and when I couldn't get anywhere within the system I hired Adrianne and she handled everything and I now see my son 5 days a week! I highly recommend Adrianne to anyone and everyone in need of legal help and I will never hire anyone but her ever again; a true 5 star lawyer!
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15 Mar, 2015 by Kirk
Adam Gruen was recommended by an attorney with whom I had known for for years as the fellow to call for help with a frustrating litigation situation that occurred with a product I purchased and applied for my construction product. I unfortunately hired a different lawyer to help out at first with the objective of simply writing a letter to my insurance company to get them involved and represent me which is why I pay for insurance, Instead of writing a letter to demand my insurance get involved this other lawyer from Orinda, ca., went without my authorization and charged up within a week time over $10,000 dollars in what he said was research, his secretary copied typical stuff online in an impressive but useless folder, I was out of town when this nonsense was performed. I was then fortunately referred to Adam Gruen, not only did adam get my insurance involved immediately with a well written letter, but wrote a letter to the so called previous avaricious lawyer that kept sending me bills for over 10,000 dollars weekly, for his very useless online information. If you have an issue Adam will tell you up front if he can hlep, if he says he can, he does. If he feels he can't help he has the foresight to say he can't help without wasting your's or his time. Great guy to call for legal advice and or representation. Kirk G
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16 Aug, 2024 by Mike larry
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14 Aug, 2024 by Olivia jackson
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06 Aug, 2024 by Keo getridge
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02 Jul, 2022 by Terry
Steven played "David" as we went after "Goliath" (Big Insurance). Friends said we couldn't win ..... we did! He knew when to push and when to back off. He wrote a great letter citing case law which signaled they weren't up against inept, novice representation. They quickly settled. He did exactly what I hired him to do. He was also referred to me by another happy client.
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28 May, 2022 by Linda
No one has to explain how difficult it is to recover money from someone who lied to you, left you in an awful place, and disappeared – but Steve and his team did. I hired someone I believed to be a contractor to do work on the foundation of my house. He showed me his card which had a valid contractor’s license number and he had done a couple of handyman jobs for me, so I trusted him. Several months into the foundation retrofit, the City of Oakland noticed his work while inspecting a house across the street, and to my surprise red-tagged my property. Before abandoning his work the “would be” contractor had left my house with an exposed foundation and other big problems. I later found out that my house was near collapse from this person’s bad work. Demands to finish the work went unheeded. Demands for repayment of the money I had paid went unheeded. I had no choice but to sue this purported contractor and the actual contractor whose license was involved. Through careful and strong legal strategy, Steve and his team got the other side to finally hear my story and see their risk, and achieved a significant court order that functionally ended the case and resulted in a significant settlement for me. This resonates with me because I know what it is like to be ignored and the energy it takes to power through that kind of behavior and Steve and his firm brought it off. At each point in the litigation, Steve worked to minimize my costs where possible, and also advised me in related actions against the unlicensed contractor’s co-conspirators which resulted in one claim being settled and judgments against the rest of the defendants. I recommend Steven Joseph Kahn highly.
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30 Jun, 2021 by Neil
Steven handled a lawsuit for me as a defendant regarding a real estate transaction. His understanding of the real estate law, contract law, and court proceedings was superlative. His representation was timely, accurate, and cordial. His negotiation style is to the point of law without emotion or judgement. He provided matter of fact options and handled negotiations with the plaintiff’s attorney VERY well. Steven is, acccording to the old adage, “a scholar and a gentleman.” I would hire Steven again, if needed, in a heartbeat.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Mike larry
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14 Aug, 2024 by Olivia jackson
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06 Aug, 2024 by Keo getridge
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16 Aug, 2024 by Mike larry
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14 Aug, 2024 by Olivia jackson
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06 Aug, 2024 by Keo getridge
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15 Jul, 2024 by Somok sen
Attorney Smith was very helpful and is a great expert to consult regarding your immigration aspects. Very well thought out and genuine responses and counsel.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Casey heusler
Carol is absolutely amazing. She is very intelligent and knows the law through and through. Everything she did she backed with all the codes and laws that support why she did or said what she did. She is very whitty, and actually cares about the children that are involved and acts in a way for their betterment. She was great at steering me in the right direction and giving me advice on how to handle things outside the courtroom. Like I said, she genuinely cared about the well being of my kids. I hired her after I fired my other attorney who made an absolute mess of my case. Carol came in with compassion and intelligence to help steer the ship in the right direction. She has no problem also telling her clients what’s right and what’s wrong. Her legal assistant Chris, is amazing as well. He shares the same passion for helping people as the attorney he works for. He is prompt and professional. He always tried to cheer me up, or make sure I was good as well. Chris and Carol together are like no other. I highly recommend them and worth every penny spent. Thank you again team.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Jose a
Called this firm for assistance, the agent answered my call but then hung up on me.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Xuming fan
It’s a miracle! I was pulled over and charged with DUI in my personal car on July 23rd, even worse is I am a CDL driver. The very probable outcome would be CDL suspension, tough DMV hearing, IID installed, SR22 insurance pay, DUI Fine, and the worst, unemployment and get stuck in the miserable condition for a couple of years. Thanks be to God, I came across those real comments and cases like what I am writing down here and the details and descriptions convinced me. I did only one correct thing the next day: call Gorelick Law Office. It turns out a surprise conviction: wet reckless driving, no CDL suspension, no DMV hearing, no IID, no SR 22 insurance… I am wondering now maybe Lynn and Teresa could possibly have been able to dismiss my case if I had tried all my best. Reach out to Gorelick office, talk to Teresa, 100% trust Lynn, follow the advice and try your best, you will make it! Never drink and drive again!
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14 May, 2024 by William ulmer
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24 Apr, 2024 by Jorge rivas
I am extremely grateful for Lynn’s exceptional representation in my second DUI case. Lynn’s expertise and dedication were evident throughout the entire process. Their strategic approach and attention to detail resulted in a successful outcome for me. I highly recommend Lynn to anyone in need of a skilled and reliable lawyer. Thank you Lynn for your outstanding work!
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03 Jun, 2015 by Darren
Jim and his staff worked with us for more then 5 years on other matters with success as our corporate counselor before we had his firm take on a very complex, and potentially very costly corporate matter. They researched all of the claims, responded, formed proper defenses for the claims from our corporate documentation and guided us as to how to improve our processes and corporate arrangements to help us avoid issues in the future. He saved us many hundreds of thousands and grief taking the matter to a successful conclusion for us. In the 4 years since that matter, we have retained him to resolve 2 other matters of contract dispute and getting due payments from clients that failed to pay upon project completion, again, both in our favor. Long time corporate client here. We get great responsiveness, honesty, good explanations whenever we ask for advice, and successful results.
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24 Sep, 2013 by Stephen
“James G. Schwartz and his law firm were recommended to my husband and me to help resolve a family issue involving company stock. When Jim came in he immediately assessed the situation and took all of the pressure off of our family. Jim and his Firm were then able to remove the problem which had caused us so much anxiety. Throughout the entire process we found him to be both extremely knowledgeable and effective in his work. Our stress level decreased markedly knowing he was watching out for our interests. I would highly recommend Jim and the Law Offices of James G. Schwartz PC”
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13 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
We were in a time crises with a real estate partner with whom we were trying to negotiate a buyout. The favorable financing was about to be lost. Jim Schwartz came recommended by a well known attorney and Jim scheduled a meeting immediately. He contacted the opposing attorney, drafted an agreement and saved our loan as well as resolved the issues. He was supportive, direct, and yet caring and helped us keep our sense of direction throughout. I would highly recommend Jim for your legal needs.
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20 Jun, 2023 by Kimberly easley
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17 Nov, 2019 by Nikki z
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30 Mar, 2019 by Kristen koeller
Nick Tooliatos and his team have been beyond supportive with my father's conservatorship. They are caring, precise, and have helped to keep me on track with my dad's care and support. Nick has been mindful to minimize unnecessary costs and offered expert advice that has lessened the stress on my family and me. For years, as my dad declined, I was told that it was nearly impossible to get conservatorship for a loved one, but Nick and his team made it happen. Thank God they did because my dad is in a much better place now. I highly recommend Nick and am grateful for his support and expertise.
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20 Jun, 2023 by Kimberly easley
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17 Nov, 2019 by Nikki z
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30 Mar, 2019 by Kristen koeller
Nick Tooliatos and his team have been beyond supportive with my father's conservatorship. They are caring, precise, and have helped to keep me on track with my dad's care and support. Nick has been mindful to minimize unnecessary costs and offered expert advice that has lessened the stress on my family and me. For years, as my dad declined, I was told that it was nearly impossible to get conservatorship for a loved one, but Nick and his team made it happen. Thank God they did because my dad is in a much better place now. I highly recommend Nick and am grateful for his support and expertise.
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30 Dec, 2021 by Janice
I was convicted of a misdemeanor to be exponged in 2018. Something went wrong between the court and the Department of Justice. On all background check for t shows felony. I was able to reach Cecilia finally and with a rude attitude she yelled at me and told me I should call the Dept of Justice. She would not help. I am now homeless and still showing a felony that does not exist in the court system nor in my life. But she was court appointed and she received her pay. I'm still fighting to just have the truth on my record. She doesn't care because she does not have to deal with the consequences. Shame on you Cecilia
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01 Nov, 2016 by Jessica
Please do not waste your money with this so called "attorney" she really has no clue what she's doing didn't even remember my husbands name each court date and because of all her mistakes I had to hire a real attorney that knew what they were doing. She's really unprofessional!!! Does not answer calls unless you block them because then she has no idea who it is. Zero communication skills and she's just really bad at what she's trying to do
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24 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Faissol to represent me on my divorce. I found her to be extremely unresponsive and inattentive to my case and would not even keep me informed on important correspondence she received from the opposing counsel. She never provided me with monthly statements on how much time she was devoting to my case. After about a year of not making any progress on my case, I decided to hire another attorney. After repeatedly asking her for a settlement of my retainer fee, and informing her that I would complain to the California Bar, I finally received a statement where she claimed to have spent all of my retainer fee. Please do not engage Ms. Faissol for legal representation involving family law. She is unprofessional and may even be bordering in testing the ethics of a legal practice.
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What a Litigation Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Litigation Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does a Litigation Lawyer Do?

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

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

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

How Are Litigation Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Litigation Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Litigation Lawyer

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

  1. What is your experience with cases like mine?
    Ensure that the lawyer has experience handling your specific type of dispute, whether it's a contract issue, personal injury, or business matter.
  2. What are the potential outcomes of my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case's strengths, weaknesses, and the likelihood of success.
  3. What is your fee structure?
    Clarify how you'll be charged, whether by the hour, a flat fee, or on a contingency basis.
  4. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it's hard to predict, an experienced lawyer can give you a rough estimate based on similar cases.
  5. How often do you settle cases versus going to trial?
    Some lawyers are more inclined to settle, while others may be more experienced in the courtroom. It’s important to understand their strategy.
  6. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Some lawyers prefer aggressive litigation, while others focus on settlement or mediation. Choose one whose approach aligns with your goals.

How to Check the Credibility of a Litigation Lawyer

To verify a litigation lawyer’s credibility, consider the following steps:

  • Check bar association records: Ensure the lawyer is in good standing with the state bar and has no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and track record.
  • Look for litigation experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they have handled cases like yours and have a record of success.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer to provide references from past clients who can speak to their effectiveness and approach.
  • Research their trial experience: If your case is likely to go to trial, ensure the lawyer has a history of courtroom success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make your first consultation with a litigation lawyer productive, you should prepare the following:

  • A clear outline of the dispute: Provide a timeline and key details about the legal issue you're facing.
  • Any relevant documents: Bring contracts, emails, letters, or any other documentation that pertains to the case.
  • A list of key players: Provide the names of individuals or companies involved in the dispute.
  • Questions about fees and the litigation process: Make sure you understand how the lawyer plans to approach your case and how you will be charged.
  • Your goals and expectations: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, whether it's a settlement, compensation, or another resolution.

By coming prepared, you can ensure that your initial meeting with the lawyer is both efficient and insightful, giving you a better sense of how to proceed with your case.

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