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30 Jun, 2019 by Zachary hayes
Has helped me with in every way possible. Please pick him as your attorney if you need one
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21 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Andy to represent me after my girlfriend at the time threatened to accuse me of abuse, then apologized and told me that she was simply drunk and acknowledged that I would never hurt her, then punched me in face on a later date, then followed through with her threat to accuse me of abuse when I asked her to move out. On our initial consultation, Andy met with me personally and was attentive, professional, and impressive. Two days after the incident the police decided not to charge me. With Andy's help we discovered that this woman had a history of violence and abuse of the legal system with other partners. One of her partners warned that I should file a restraining order and to expect her to do the same as she had harassed him, thrown hot coffee in his face, hit him, and called the police on him many times while she was intoxicated and fighting with him about their son. She had me served with a restraining order while I was seeing patients in my office two weeks later. Andy helped me to reconstruct the events and uncover digital evidence showing my partner admitting on multiple occasions that she had fabricated her claims and that her previous threats of abuse accusations were nothing more than the result of her intoxication. Andy even hired a private detective to investigate my former partner. During this time my former partner continued to harass me, stalk me, and break in to the home we had shared together. Through all of this Andy was more than a great attorney, but a reassuring presence that helped to get me through this tough time. He always responded to me quickly and fully. I frankly don't know how he could show me and my case so much personal attention while doing the same for his other clients. But he did. This guy is an outstanding attorney and I couldn't have hired anyone better.
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01 Jul, 2013 by Rajvir
Patricia A. Brockway, there's only one word I could use to describe her with and that is AWESOME!! AWEOME! AWESOME! She took up a case for my dad about a year ago and I've been working with her since then and all I can say is that she is AWESOME! She was friendly from day one. I never once felt I was talking to a lawyer it felt like I was talking to a friend because she always broke everything down so I could understand and explain to my dad very easily. After talking to her I had a feeling my dads case was in good hands and now at the end of the case I can say proudly that the case was in GREAT hands!! Even though we live in California and she's in Oregon she never caused any hassle for us because she was flexible and worked with us over the phone. She definitely knew what she was doing and got it done with a result we are more than satisfied with! Thank you very much Patricia!! You're nothing less than awesome!! I would definitely recommend her for anyone who is looking for a lawyer who knows what they are doing. Keep up the AWESOME work Patricia!!
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06 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Eric was chosen to represent us in a lawsuit that was filed regarding an injury on a former property that we sold. The plaintiffs Attorney's were known to be very successful at representing individuals for this type of case. From the day that we were introduced to Eric he made us feel comfortable and took much of our worry away, I should say, "as much as he could when your'e being sued." We were defendants and the new home owner was the other defendant and had their own councel. Once Jury selection and the cross examination began it was clear that the plaintiffs attorney didn't want my attorney in the courtroom. He was articulate and fearless, played very well with the co defendant Attorney and had a clear path in his mind to victory. The co defendants Attorney also did very well but Eric picked up the ball where he left off in cross examination and made the facts very transparent. After only 2 days in a 5 day trial, the plaintiffs attorney's dismiss the case against us. Im sure there were many reasons for that decision but I truly believe that their motivation was to get Eric Schilling out of there before he destroyed the credibility of their plaintiff and witnesses. Thank you Eric for your professionalism and a superb job representing us in this case. You are Top Notch!
The Martin's
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24 May, 2021 by Mike
Genuine and amazingly talented, he truly did the best he could to help me win in court. And we Did! Connor not only got me off of Federal Probation but he had the Judge lecturing the Prosecutor on ethics and verbally questioning their motives in front of the entire courtroom. He didn’t just do it to win he really believed in me and came up his own arguments and led me right out of court and 100% free. I owe him and Susan Moffatt and Allison”Tex” Clark a world of praise. They are rated the best Federal public defenders office in the country and the title is well deserved.
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05 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
When a previous employer attempted to prevent me from contacting my patients, Mr. Howell assisted me in reaching an agreement. As a physician, I greatly appreciated his calm professionalism and ethical approach. I have recommended Mr. Howell highly to colleagues.
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24 Jan, 2022 by John
Michelle is a very good advocate for her clients. She is very supportive and caring and takes her job very seriously. I can't recommend her high enough. She is my hero.
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22 Apr, 2010 by Tonya
My husband and I just completed our Trust through the Law Office of Katherine West. I wanted to share her contact info. with you because we were thrilled to find a competent, intelligent, patient, sincere, and completely knowledgeable attorney. We had planned to have a trust made right after our son was born (almost 4 years ago) but kept putting it off. Probably, because we knew it was exploring and answering some difficult questions. Well, push came to shove when we booked our first vacation away from the boys and literally asked ourselves, "if we crash, what happens to the boys". I know it's a morbid thought, but we certainly wanted to decide our children's fate.
We found that so much more is involved in a trust. All that you could want answered, is and by completing it, we feel very secure.
So, here is Katherine's information. Like I said, she was a complete pleasure to work with. She made it easy for us, was patient, and answered every question in a way that was clear and understandable.
(contact information removed)
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31 Jul, 2022 by Jonah
She's a huge support system. I'll recommend her. She stresses herself out too get the support her client needs. She's the one
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05 Feb, 2010 by Rob
I first met Will in 1987 when he was recommended to me and a contingent of officers after I asked the Executive Director of the National Association of Police Organizations who the best police labor attorney was. With no hesitation, the gentleman told us "Will Aitchison." We arranged a meeting, and after a short introductory meeting, a trip was arranged in which Will made a presntation to our Executive Board. He was hired on the spot. His guidance and legal expertise became invaluable to our organization as we wound up in court on issues such as binding arbitration, drug testing, and shift hours. We also negotiated several contracts in the most adverse labor environment imaginable. Will became as much consigliore as he was attorney, and to this day represents our union with a level of ethics, professionalism, and effectiveness that a once adversarial management team now considers a resource in dealing with complicated labor issues and matters of employee relations.
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05 Jan, 2016 by Robin parker
Aaron representing my family with a Trust issue as well as personal Will, Trust and Estate Planning. He was the most responsive attorney I have had and informative on the information needed. Highly recommended.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Tony h
During one of my trips to Portland, I happened to be walking around the streets when I came across Kilmer Voorhees & Laurick. This is a highly regarded general practice law firm specializing in litigation and business transaction matters.
What initially drew my attention was the building itself. It was beautifully maintained, and the garden was meticulously groomed. It almost resembled a charming little White House. It turns out that this establishment is a law firm, and if you ever find yourself in need of legal assistance, it might be worth considering their services.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Tashina rose “tashina†odonnell
02 May, 2021 by Annie mchale
Mr. Muth and other representatives of Kilmer Voorhees & Laurick, PC: please accept my apology for the false review posted under my name. To be clear, I did not write this review, nor have I ever been a client of Mr. Muth's or this firm. Mr. Muth and I serve as co-council persons and are the target of a malicious intent to discredit our character. Anyone considering the legal assistance of this firm, please disregard the former review under the name of Annie McHale-Gray. Thank you.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Sean wonnacott
Yadira Ramirez is an excellent attorney. I was blindsided by false sexual assault allegations. Yadira was always calm, cool and collected. I felt she had my best intentions. She had a lot of patience when I got angry or upset because I didn't understand how the courts work, or how lawyers communicate with the courts, and also the laws. I felt more at ease once when she thoroughly explained how court proceedings take place. Although, I could not ever be fully at ease because of the implications in my case. We had evidence that showed my innocence. But even with that, I still felt anxiety because of how inconsistent the courts in America are. Yadira could have told me that I had a airtight case and that we were going to win in court. But she was honest and said that courts are unpredictable and that she can't guarantee a victory. Which I understand. But she also said that we do have good evidence and that would show favorably for me in court.
Court was set for a Friday, and on Monday my accuser decided she wanted a consent agreement. I did not know what that was, and Yadira thoroughly explained what it was.
The first draft of the consent agreement their attorney sent Yadira was bogus and unfair. Yadira told me to stand firm and not accept the terms. Yadira redlined the document an added language in my favor. Their side sent back another agreement, and Yadira once again said to stand my ground and not accept it...
So finally 2 days before we're supposed to go to court. My accuser and her attorney caved and gave in to our terms and a much more favorable consent agreement, which ended up in a dismissal of my accuser's restraining order against me...
I was extremely anxious and nervous the entire time, 3 months of absolute hell. Yadira gave me my life back and restored a little faith in the legal system. There are lawyers out there that 100% care about their clients and Yadira is absolutely one that cares.
I recommend Yadira for any legal matters regarding restraining orders.
Thank you Yadira
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Tiffany millikan
Thomas Ybarra is a highly organized and knowledgeable attorney and I'm so grateful for his attention to detail when it came to my divorce proceedings. He was always honest with me about what to expect and also heard me when I told him what I wanted/needed. He was able to successfully argue my position for sole custody of my two children, secure me spousal support and child support, and negotiate an agreement that allowed me to keep my house. His attention to my case was constant and I could always get ahold of him when I needed advice. I highly recommend Mr. Ybarra's counsel if you are looking for representation in a divorce or child custody case. He knows the law and is able to explain how the process works. He made my very volatile divorce bearable and having him in my corner was a complete godsend. No one truly wins in divorce, but in my case he got me a big win on paper. Grateful for his representation.
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08 Jun, 2023 by Valeria mallett
Thomas Ybarra has been an amazing lawyer for my case. Thomas is a great listener and knowledgeable about family law. Thomas made me feel very supported throughout the process. I would highly recommend Thomas as a lawyer.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Sean wonnacott
Yadira Ramirez is an excellent attorney. I was blindsided by false sexual assault allegations. Yadira was always calm, cool and collected. I felt she had my best intentions. She had a lot of patience when I got angry or upset because I didn't understand how the courts work, or how lawyers communicate with the courts, and also the laws. I felt more at ease once when she thoroughly explained how court proceedings take place. Although, I could not ever be fully at ease because of the implications in my case. We had evidence that showed my innocence. But even with that, I still felt anxiety because of how inconsistent the courts in America are. Yadira could have told me that I had a airtight case and that we were going to win in court. But she was honest and said that courts are unpredictable and that she can't guarantee a victory. Which I understand. But she also said that we do have good evidence and that would show favorably for me in court.
Court was set for a Friday, and on Monday my accuser decided she wanted a consent agreement. I did not know what that was, and Yadira thoroughly explained what it was.
The first draft of the consent agreement their attorney sent Yadira was bogus and unfair. Yadira told me to stand firm and not accept the terms. Yadira redlined the document an added language in my favor. Their side sent back another agreement, and Yadira once again said to stand my ground and not accept it...
So finally 2 days before we're supposed to go to court. My accuser and her attorney caved and gave in to our terms and a much more favorable consent agreement, which ended up in a dismissal of my accuser's restraining order against me...
I was extremely anxious and nervous the entire time, 3 months of absolute hell. Yadira gave me my life back and restored a little faith in the legal system. There are lawyers out there that 100% care about their clients and Yadira is absolutely one that cares.
I recommend Yadira for any legal matters regarding restraining orders.
Thank you Yadira
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Tiffany millikan
Thomas Ybarra is a highly organized and knowledgeable attorney and I'm so grateful for his attention to detail when it came to my divorce proceedings. He was always honest with me about what to expect and also heard me when I told him what I wanted/needed. He was able to successfully argue my position for sole custody of my two children, secure me spousal support and child support, and negotiate an agreement that allowed me to keep my house. His attention to my case was constant and I could always get ahold of him when I needed advice. I highly recommend Mr. Ybarra's counsel if you are looking for representation in a divorce or child custody case. He knows the law and is able to explain how the process works. He made my very volatile divorce bearable and having him in my corner was a complete godsend. No one truly wins in divorce, but in my case he got me a big win on paper. Grateful for his representation.
Read more
08 Jun, 2023 by Valeria mallett
Thomas Ybarra has been an amazing lawyer for my case. Thomas is a great listener and knowledgeable about family law. Thomas made me feel very supported throughout the process. I would highly recommend Thomas as a lawyer.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Sean wonnacott
Yadira Ramirez is an excellent attorney. I was blindsided by false sexual assault allegations. Yadira was always calm, cool and collected. I felt she had my best intentions. She had a lot of patience when I got angry or upset because I didn't understand how the courts work, or how lawyers communicate with the courts, and also the laws. I felt more at ease once when she thoroughly explained how court proceedings take place. Although, I could not ever be fully at ease because of the implications in my case. We had evidence that showed my innocence. But even with that, I still felt anxiety because of how inconsistent the courts in America are. Yadira could have told me that I had a airtight case and that we were going to win in court. But she was honest and said that courts are unpredictable and that she can't guarantee a victory. Which I understand. But she also said that we do have good evidence and that would show favorably for me in court.
Court was set for a Friday, and on Monday my accuser decided she wanted a consent agreement. I did not know what that was, and Yadira thoroughly explained what it was.
The first draft of the consent agreement their attorney sent Yadira was bogus and unfair. Yadira told me to stand firm and not accept the terms. Yadira redlined the document an added language in my favor. Their side sent back another agreement, and Yadira once again said to stand my ground and not accept it...
So finally 2 days before we're supposed to go to court. My accuser and her attorney caved and gave in to our terms and a much more favorable consent agreement, which ended up in a dismissal of my accuser's restraining order against me...
I was extremely anxious and nervous the entire time, 3 months of absolute hell. Yadira gave me my life back and restored a little faith in the legal system. There are lawyers out there that 100% care about their clients and Yadira is absolutely one that cares.
I recommend Yadira for any legal matters regarding restraining orders.
Thank you Yadira
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Tiffany millikan
Thomas Ybarra is a highly organized and knowledgeable attorney and I'm so grateful for his attention to detail when it came to my divorce proceedings. He was always honest with me about what to expect and also heard me when I told him what I wanted/needed. He was able to successfully argue my position for sole custody of my two children, secure me spousal support and child support, and negotiate an agreement that allowed me to keep my house. His attention to my case was constant and I could always get ahold of him when I needed advice. I highly recommend Mr. Ybarra's counsel if you are looking for representation in a divorce or child custody case. He knows the law and is able to explain how the process works. He made my very volatile divorce bearable and having him in my corner was a complete godsend. No one truly wins in divorce, but in my case he got me a big win on paper. Grateful for his representation.
Read more
08 Jun, 2023 by Valeria mallett
Thomas Ybarra has been an amazing lawyer for my case. Thomas is a great listener and knowledgeable about family law. Thomas made me feel very supported throughout the process. I would highly recommend Thomas as a lawyer.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Sean wonnacott
Yadira Ramirez is an excellent attorney. I was blindsided by false sexual assault allegations. Yadira was always calm, cool and collected. I felt she had my best intentions. She had a lot of patience when I got angry or upset because I didn't understand how the courts work, or how lawyers communicate with the courts, and also the laws. I felt more at ease once when she thoroughly explained how court proceedings take place. Although, I could not ever be fully at ease because of the implications in my case. We had evidence that showed my innocence. But even with that, I still felt anxiety because of how inconsistent the courts in America are. Yadira could have told me that I had a airtight case and that we were going to win in court. But she was honest and said that courts are unpredictable and that she can't guarantee a victory. Which I understand. But she also said that we do have good evidence and that would show favorably for me in court.
Court was set for a Friday, and on Monday my accuser decided she wanted a consent agreement. I did not know what that was, and Yadira thoroughly explained what it was.
The first draft of the consent agreement their attorney sent Yadira was bogus and unfair. Yadira told me to stand firm and not accept the terms. Yadira redlined the document an added language in my favor. Their side sent back another agreement, and Yadira once again said to stand my ground and not accept it...
So finally 2 days before we're supposed to go to court. My accuser and her attorney caved and gave in to our terms and a much more favorable consent agreement, which ended up in a dismissal of my accuser's restraining order against me...
I was extremely anxious and nervous the entire time, 3 months of absolute hell. Yadira gave me my life back and restored a little faith in the legal system. There are lawyers out there that 100% care about their clients and Yadira is absolutely one that cares.
I recommend Yadira for any legal matters regarding restraining orders.
Thank you Yadira
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Tiffany millikan
Thomas Ybarra is a highly organized and knowledgeable attorney and I'm so grateful for his attention to detail when it came to my divorce proceedings. He was always honest with me about what to expect and also heard me when I told him what I wanted/needed. He was able to successfully argue my position for sole custody of my two children, secure me spousal support and child support, and negotiate an agreement that allowed me to keep my house. His attention to my case was constant and I could always get ahold of him when I needed advice. I highly recommend Mr. Ybarra's counsel if you are looking for representation in a divorce or child custody case. He knows the law and is able to explain how the process works. He made my very volatile divorce bearable and having him in my corner was a complete godsend. No one truly wins in divorce, but in my case he got me a big win on paper. Grateful for his representation.
Read more
08 Jun, 2023 by Valeria mallett
Thomas Ybarra has been an amazing lawyer for my case. Thomas is a great listener and knowledgeable about family law. Thomas made me feel very supported throughout the process. I would highly recommend Thomas as a lawyer.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Sean wonnacott
Yadira Ramirez is an excellent attorney. I was blindsided by false sexual assault allegations. Yadira was always calm, cool and collected. I felt she had my best intentions. She had a lot of patience when I got angry or upset because I didn't understand how the courts work, or how lawyers communicate with the courts, and also the laws. I felt more at ease once when she thoroughly explained how court proceedings take place. Although, I could not ever be fully at ease because of the implications in my case. We had evidence that showed my innocence. But even with that, I still felt anxiety because of how inconsistent the courts in America are. Yadira could have told me that I had a airtight case and that we were going to win in court. But she was honest and said that courts are unpredictable and that she can't guarantee a victory. Which I understand. But she also said that we do have good evidence and that would show favorably for me in court.
Court was set for a Friday, and on Monday my accuser decided she wanted a consent agreement. I did not know what that was, and Yadira thoroughly explained what it was.
The first draft of the consent agreement their attorney sent Yadira was bogus and unfair. Yadira told me to stand firm and not accept the terms. Yadira redlined the document an added language in my favor. Their side sent back another agreement, and Yadira once again said to stand my ground and not accept it...
So finally 2 days before we're supposed to go to court. My accuser and her attorney caved and gave in to our terms and a much more favorable consent agreement, which ended up in a dismissal of my accuser's restraining order against me...
I was extremely anxious and nervous the entire time, 3 months of absolute hell. Yadira gave me my life back and restored a little faith in the legal system. There are lawyers out there that 100% care about their clients and Yadira is absolutely one that cares.
I recommend Yadira for any legal matters regarding restraining orders.
Thank you Yadira
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Tiffany millikan
Thomas Ybarra is a highly organized and knowledgeable attorney and I'm so grateful for his attention to detail when it came to my divorce proceedings. He was always honest with me about what to expect and also heard me when I told him what I wanted/needed. He was able to successfully argue my position for sole custody of my two children, secure me spousal support and child support, and negotiate an agreement that allowed me to keep my house. His attention to my case was constant and I could always get ahold of him when I needed advice. I highly recommend Mr. Ybarra's counsel if you are looking for representation in a divorce or child custody case. He knows the law and is able to explain how the process works. He made my very volatile divorce bearable and having him in my corner was a complete godsend. No one truly wins in divorce, but in my case he got me a big win on paper. Grateful for his representation.
Read more
08 Jun, 2023 by Valeria mallett
Thomas Ybarra has been an amazing lawyer for my case. Thomas is a great listener and knowledgeable about family law. Thomas made me feel very supported throughout the process. I would highly recommend Thomas as a lawyer.
Read more
07 Dec, 2023 by Sam paul
14 Aug, 2019 by Claudia garcia
Best attorney I have worked with for my immigration case . Excellent service.
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04 Aug, 2019 by Jeffrey mills
Jennifer is great! With her help my adopted son got his citizenship. She's very helpful, personable and professional.
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07 Oct, 2019 by Adam blagg
Bob Bonaparte knows his stuff
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17 Jul, 2016 by James bonaparte
21 Sep, 2018 by Jake weatherly (cabbagethesavage)
08 Feb, 2017 by Nathan bernhardt
Claude Bosworth's legal mind has been an extremely useful tool to have on my side, on several occasions. My only hesitation in recommending him is I don't want him to become too busy to take my calls:)
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11 Feb, 2022 by Anneliese sheahan steward oregon ccpt local 132
24 May, 2016 by Dc smith enterprises
Geoff has done a great job for many years & has great service along with price. well done indeed
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07 Oct, 2019 by Adam blagg
Bob Bonaparte knows his stuff
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17 Jul, 2016 by James bonaparte
11 Jun, 2024 by Patrick goggin
I have collaborated with Courtney for over a decade in the hemp space. Her diligence, attention to detail, and leadership and communication skills are second to none. If I wasn't an attorney and needed guidance within the hemp industry she'd be at the top of the list of attorneys to contact.
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11 Jan, 2020 by Avishai meyer
Great food with plenty on vegetarian options. Exceptional service
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11 Jan, 2020 by Avishai meyer
Great food with plenty on vegetarian options. Exceptional service
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03 Sep, 2022 by Mindy quinn
Awesome attorney. Very knowledgeable. He definitely fights for you.
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05 Dec, 2020 by Paul burkett
09 Jun, 2020 by Fei stetzwa
Great lawyers building a great community. Thanks for hosting OC-NBA in your new digs. Fabulous art work, breath taking views, and hospitality galore.
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11 Aug, 2019 by Sam kuzma
05 Dec, 2020 by Paul burkett
09 Jun, 2020 by Fei stetzwa
Great lawyers building a great community. Thanks for hosting OC-NBA in your new digs. Fabulous art work, breath taking views, and hospitality galore.
Read more
11 Aug, 2019 by Sam kuzma
17 Jan, 2025 by Jamie ruble
If you are considering hiring Travis Mayor to represent you, do NOT hesitate! After two different attorneys told me there was no way to pursue a larger settlement than the measley one I was offered, Travis told me his plan to seek appropriate compensation for a colliision that took me months to recover from. And he delivered. The entire process with his firm was delightful - from his amazing team to his personal phone calls keeping me updated. I could not have asked for a better experience.
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14 Jan, 2025 by Avery dori
I appreciate everything you were able to do for me. More than I expected in the end. Thank you!
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10 Jan, 2025 by C retzler
17 Jan, 2025 by Jamie ruble
If you are considering hiring Travis Mayor to represent you, do NOT hesitate! After two different attorneys told me there was no way to pursue a larger settlement than the measley one I was offered, Travis told me his plan to seek appropriate compensation for a colliision that took me months to recover from. And he delivered. The entire process with his firm was delightful - from his amazing team to his personal phone calls keeping me updated. I could not have asked for a better experience.
Read more
14 Jan, 2025 by Avery dori
I appreciate everything you were able to do for me. More than I expected in the end. Thank you!
Read more
10 Jan, 2025 by C retzler
17 Jan, 2025 by Jamie ruble
If you are considering hiring Travis Mayor to represent you, do NOT hesitate! After two different attorneys told me there was no way to pursue a larger settlement than the measley one I was offered, Travis told me his plan to seek appropriate compensation for a colliision that took me months to recover from. And he delivered. The entire process with his firm was delightful - from his amazing team to his personal phone calls keeping me updated. I could not have asked for a better experience.
Read more
14 Jan, 2025 by Avery dori
I appreciate everything you were able to do for me. More than I expected in the end. Thank you!
Read more
10 Jan, 2025 by C retzler
Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
