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07 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
I met Mr Bittner last year to discuss my confusing and emotionally charged divorce case that only few attorneys would consider taking. After our initial consultation, he expressed willingness to move forward in spite of the mess I was in. I decided to hire Tom because he handled me like a bowling pin and I needed a good negotiator (I wasn’t interested in trying to burn my X but protect my family). My case took almost a full year to resolve, and through that time I had the freedom to proactively work together with him; he was always there as a voice of reality to temper ideals and help me refocus. Tom won’t tell you what you want to hear. He knows the system and will help you to see where justice is blind to your case. If you’re a vindictive person he’s not a good match, but if you need a strong advocate who really wants to help people work things out, I highly recommend his services.
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18 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Bittner did not explain that he is an attorney that wants a positive result for both parties. I used him as my divorce attorney and he did not negotiate a fair settlement for me during my divorce. I felt I was rushed during the entire process.
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03 Sep, 2013 by Janet
Jim Cartwright operated with integrity in a very difficult case in our family. His expertise in elder law and in trial work was clear. He maintained a laser focus on the legal issues and was patient but firm in his insistence that all parties cooperate to maintain that focus. His professionalism helped calm emotions, including those of other attorneys involved. His logical strategy helped him prevail in Court. We are grateful for his help and his manner and highly recommend him and his firm.
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05 Jul, 2009 by Bill
Jim Cartwright appears to have an excellent understanding of the laws governing testamentary trusts.
Unfortunately, he runs a small law firm which he, apparently, has no interest in overseeing. The result is that he assigns clients to lawyers who appear less than competent to handle the clients' business. In my case, the lawyer he assigned to my legal matter ignored multiple instructions given by me over the better part of a year to approach the other side about settling the case. This lawyer went so far as to set a trial date WITHOUT INFORMING ME that a trial had even been scheduled. It was only by luck that, weeks later, I discovered that a trial was upcoming, went to Jim Cartwright, and had this lawyer taken off the case. Months later, and despite the fact that Jim billed me something like $750.00 to take this lawyer off the case, I discovered that he HAD PUT THE LAWYER BACK ON THE CASE without informing me.
Subsequently, Jim abruptly dropped me as a client with no explanation. I believe that he did so upon discovering that the lawyer had committed a malpractice after being put back on my case, and did not want to deal with the conflict of interest this malpractice created.
Whatever the reasons for Jim's allowing my case to be handled in this way, his actions did not inspire confidence in his honesty, his responsiveness, or his desire to keep me informed. Plenty of lawyers in the Portland, Oregon area are skilled at handling of trusts. I am not familiar with most of them, but I would seek out any one of them before entrusting my business to James Cartwright again.
Bill Merritt
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06 May, 2021 by Ken corbin
24 Mar, 2020 by :adam
He's an attorney, he serves nobody but the states interest.
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30 Jun, 2023 by Violetta aderikhina
Mr. Norris is an absolute marvel of an Attorney, and it was an honor to have him as my defense. Would recommend him 10/10.
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12 Oct, 2022 by Nicholas foust
Has forgotten to give me a court date twice. With two warrants as a result. Does not care about the public.
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22 Mar, 2023 by Janice saban
I met with Bruce today and he was very focused on my case. The evidence I brought in was good he said. He always takes my calls, and friendly.
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18 Mar, 2017 by Lizy bee
Terrible deceitful lawyer who is nothing less than a disturbed crazy man in need of help. Don't let him mess up your legal affairs. Especially if it involves life long consequences. That, and he waste time on petty arguments with opposing counsel.
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02 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Five years and $10k later (plus the $20k paid to her company), and I’m still cleaning up her messes on parenting time and child support. Support for two kids calculated as lump sum rather than per child, and so I’m fighting to get my 18 year old’s portion paid directly to him. Younger child cries over parenting time, but Chris’s poor advice and poor choice of parenting coordinator continues to make our lives miserable.
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16 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Chris is a delightful person. I had a high conflict divorce which she was not equipped to handle. I expected her to be a stronger advocate for a woman in a abusive relationship.
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10 May, 2023 by Paul
The shingle is not going to get used much if theres no phone number readily available laddy. Do we snail mail, a letter to ya. Thank you have a good day.
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22 Jun, 2024 by Hillary
I did speak with Ms. Dubay in regards to representing me in collecting a debt. She repeatedly told me how expensive it would be. Having some legal experience I did not see how she could assert this and I was apprehensive about hiring her, which I decided not to do.
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13 Sep, 2021 by Mikkel
Eleanor is a very dishonest attorney! She lies and the follow up was so poor! I’d be happy to provide the history to anyone who wants to know what an awful attorney. I have all the proof. This attorney makes a lot to treat real people bad. Consumer beware!
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17 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I had hired Jason to assist my elderly mother with a partner dispute that involved a government, subsidized multi housing project . At first I was very impressed with Jason, until it seemed that paying his high retainer was all that seemed to matter. In my case, the opposing party had not filed any legal action and there were no subpoenas, interrogatories or requests for production at the current time; only a bunch of demand letters with empty threats and fancy wording. I wanted to "hold off" on paying Jason this high retainer until there had been a court action filed, which would have required us to pay necessary money to defend the case. During a two week period my attorney bill was escalating to close to $5000 with Jason continuously arguing with opposing council with the expectation I follow their every demand. Since the property was heading to foreclosure, it was imperative that certain paperwork was completed and turned into the government. I explained to Jason that I didn't have time to argue with opposing counsel's demands, while other serious matters were imperative with government deadlines. To make a long story short, he didn't like that I was resisting his direction and advice, and expected a $25,000 retainer for him to continue his services. I went with my gut instinct, and let this guy go and handled my mom's case myself. By October 1, I was able to regain full compliance on the property as well as a substantial rental increase, starting 2017. It was the biggest increase the property has seen since it was purchased in 1982. If you are someone who is rich and has a lot of money to waste on unnecessary litigation that doesn't even exist... then Jason is the guy for you. Otherwise, do your research and hire an attorney who works on your behalf while believing in you and your case. Stay away from those who will bleed you dry while not stopping opposing council from abusing you without a care in the world.
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19 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Attorney Ford was referred to me via Pre-paid Legal to write a letter to someone who was defaming my name. He sent the draft letter for me to review. I submitted the letter with changes. I then received a email from his administrative assistant with the original letter attached without the changes I requested. The name and orientation of the agency was wrong, and there were several name spelling errors. I let the office know that I was not aligned with them sending out the letter. Despite my communication of my not being aligned with the letter they sent the letter out without my knowledge or approval.
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12 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Brett briefly represented me in a matter. I found she had limited understanding of events, offered no insight observations suggestion or strategy, primary focus seemed billable hours and perpetuation not resolution, inconsiderate and uncreative, once Brett was removed from representation my case was resolved quickly, a poor lawyer and not client centric.
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12 May, 2021 by Anonymous
John represented me briefly, he never exhibited an understanding of events, never had any insight observations suggestions or strategy beyond a pedestrian approach to preparing for trial which in his own notes he expressed slim chance of success for a projected $125,000 in expenses. He employs a vague and ambiguous communication style designed to increase engagement and billable hours not towards respect or resolution. He adamantly refused to hear any criticism of his work. In my opinion a very poor lawyer indifferent to a clients input.
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02 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I found Tara Costanzo to quite rude and unprofessional when we had are consultation. She was very disrespectful of my mother and youngest sister. Seemed to me she has a problem with power dynamics. She wanted to be clear she was the alpha in the room. She was very short and snarky. In typical lawyer fashion, she first acted very bubbly and accommodating. While later showing her true colors after we had met and her time clock was running. With an attitude like that she should be working at Starbucks NOT at a law firm.
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02 Feb, 2025 by Vanessa
I hired Nathan for a custody battle for my son with my ex and it was desperate times last minute, but I paid Nathan a good chunk of money just for him to show up to the trial unprepared he was to busy working other cases on his laptop when he was supposed to be working mine at that time, disrespected, the judge did not represent me at all or give any of my evidence a chance he had to go on a vacation later that day, and he rushed the trial by not even trying to help me the judge noticed that he was too busy on his laptop, working another case when I paid him a lot to work mine and that he did not, and I lost custody of my son And respect for attorneys after that and a nice 6 grand for nothing!! I do not recommend him for anyone
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02 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Not sure whether or not he is currently even licensed to practice, but from my brief experience with him all the character traits mentioned in the previous reviews are still accurate. Overall I would describe him as one who demonstrates typical drug addict behaviors. Beware or better yet stay away. My experience definitely reinforces to me the importance of researching someone before consulting. Wish I had read these reviews sooner. But at least I found them as soon as his suspicious behaviors raised red flags. Thanks Avvo!
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31 Oct, 2019 by Byron
Talked to him before hiring him, seems like a great lawyer with alot of knowledge so I decided to hire him.. after i had paid him alot of money there was less and less communication, eventually he texted me and said he would have to drop my case due to much work with other clients, he was apologetic and said we could meet so he could give me cashiers check to refund back money since he was dropping my case.. day off meeting came and he texted with an excuse why he couldn't meet and reschuled another meeting, day of second meeting was another excuse and reschedule, he never showed up for the third meeting and never returned any of my phone calls after that... I see that he is currently suspend but If that ever gets lifted I don't recommend him I lost roughly $8,000-9,000 with him (all this was about 2 years ago so don't remember exact ammount, just recently thinking about it again and figured I'd atleast leave a reveiw so people don't make the same mistake I did by hiring him)
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02 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Michal as an LSAT tutor as I am a prospective Law Student. I left him a deposit for the classes, tutored with him for some time and then I never heard from him again. He took off with some of my money and did not refund or provide me with additional classes or even an explanation. I did everything to get a hold of him, including sending a certified letter, but it seems he is in the wind or dead. I have contacted the Oregon state bar regarding his behavior. I am very disappointed and even though I am extremely upset about the situation I hope he is not injured or dead. Michael if you see this, you know who I am please contact me and return my money. I work 2 jobs just to pay for tutoring and you took off with my money.
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19 Sep, 2017 by Lisa
My ex and I were told we needed to use Ricks to split our retirement funds. From the start Ricks was nothing but rude and condescending to us, he had account numbers incorrect and lied about information that was given to him that he said he never received (we had emails to back it up). He has no idea what he is doing. The financial institutes that we had funds in had worked with him before and they used the word incompetent and rude. DO NOT use this man for anything unless you love to be treated poorly and love frustration and wasting money.
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24 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
hired to create QDRO could not ever get dates and my name correct on paper work. Extremely rude and curt when trying to talk to him about situation.
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13 Jul, 2015 by Doug
when hired i was told 30 to 45 days, when i called after 45 days the paper work hadnt even been submitted and it would be another 30 to 45 days when i asked for a discount he said no that it just slipped through the cracks, WOW thats competance and fair huh, someone dosent do his job right according to a contract and he refuses to compensate NICE. Sorry dan but this was supposed to be quick and simple and you turned it into a pain, my opinion is go to someone more competent
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01 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
In my opinion Bill Keeler is one of the most evil men I have ever encountered in my entire life. I think that he is arrogant, selfish, inconsiderate, incompetent, and will do just about anything for money. I caught him lying to me on three occasions. He never kept any promise he made to me. He hunted me down like I was a wild animal, defamed my character and forced me against my will to testify in a civil case that had absolutely nothing to do with me and he knew it.
The civil case was all because someone at his law firm had written a living trust incorrectly and did not list and give money to anyone who might contest the trust. Because of that when their client died, someone previously listed on another living trust contested the trust. Everyone knows or should know that you have to list anyone on a trust who might contest the trust and give them $1 which shows you considered them and didn't want them to get any money. Any competent attorney would have listed any and all people listed on previous trusts and given them a $1. This is standard practice in the industry. Yet Bill Keeler's law firm did not do that. And one of the people listed in a previous trust contested the trust. Surprise, surprise. NOT The case couldn't be thrown out because he wasn't listed on the trust that Bill Keeler's law firm had written. So instead of owning up to the fact that they had written the living trust incorrectly, he decided to supeona anyone who might correct his mistake. A good person doesn't force other people against their will to correct their mistake. A good person corrects their own mistakes.
I was one of the people subpoenaed on their fishing expedition to correct their mistake. However, Bill told me excruciating details about the case. Attorneys are not allowed to tell details to a witness because it might sway their testimony. But Bill did exactly that to me. In my opinion he was trying to get me to lie under oath.
He also sent a process server to go to all my neighbors and tell them that I was being served papers. That process server hunted me down for over a month. I work a lot so I was never home when she tried to serve me. That gave me many sleepless nights during that month because all my neighbors were coming up to me telling me that someone was trying to serve me papers. I knew that I had done nothing wrong to get someone to serve me papers. He had never sent me a letter in the mail to tell me what was going on in advance. His first effort without giving me a chance to volunteer to testify was to serve me papers to get me to testify against my will. Again it is extremely rare for a person to be supeonaed in a civil case. Yet, because Bill, in my opinion, has no morals, it didn't bother him that he had made my life hell by defaming my character to all my neighbors.
When he finally got a hold of me, I figured out right away he wasn't owning up to the fact that they had made a mistake. And they wanted me to correct their mistake. I was so furious when I found the truth about why the process server had defamed my character for over a month.. To make matters worse, he and one of his staff threatened to throw me in jail if I didn't do exactly what they wanted. Knowing they would be throwing a completely innocent person in jail didn't bother Bill and his staff one bit. In my opinion, the person who should be thrown in jail is Bill and his staff. In my opinions they are criminals.
I sent Bill two certified letters telling them not to contact me and I sent over 50 emails telling them not to contact me. And the next day Bill would always contact me out of complete disrespect, arrogance and selfishness. I couldn't sleep for four months over a case that was 100% caused by Bill Keeler's law firm's incompetence, in my opinion. Now you know why I think Bill Keeler is one of the most evil men I have ever encountered.
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07 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Keeler told us we would not be liable for anything but our own attorneys fees but infact he joined us to a petition that held us responsible for over 100 grand of all the other partys fees. He filed responses we never agreed to or even signed just to rack up more charges. Mr. Keeler was all about the money rather then having a close bond with his clients or even standing up and showing compassion for a deceased individual who deserved justice! NOT TRUSTWORTHY! I do NOT reccomend and would NOT ever use again! Please research thoroughly before you just think because of his age and how long he has been practicing law he must be good at what he does.
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12 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I was referred to Sarah Winfield by the legal referral service but was screened by her paralegal Paola. Conversations with Paola were difficult and she was unable to accurately collect my information from the get-go. She misspelled my name and was unfriendly and unprofessional in all communications. My appointment was cancelled two hours beforehand. This is not how I would like to begin an attorney client relationship.
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03 Dec, 2022 by Michelle dominique
The worst lawyer in Portland
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02 Dec, 2017 by David h. deblasio
02 Dec, 2017 by Nau seous
They are like vultures to get every cent from you.
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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.
