Lawyers map
>943
experienced lawyers
Filter by
05 Feb, 2025 by Cassandra jeffery
I just had Mr. Crowell represent my husband and as time did seem lengthened out, it was worth the wait.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Heather thixton
Robert Darrohn was a fantastic attorney and we were extremely pleased with the outcome as the case was dismissed. Definitely would use his firm in the future as well as highly recommend him to my friends and family . Very professional and easy to work with! Thank you very much
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Jason rogers
Excellent Representation from Robert Darrohn!!! Highly Recommended! 5 Stars! 10 Stars! Got my ticket 100% Dismissed!!!🎉🎉🎉
Read more
12 Apr, 2024 by Eddie
Benjamin & Morgan were consistantly attentive working to resovle the problems we were cofronted with and applied the law to reach the final outcome. If confronted with the need, I would not hesitate to call on them again. Thanks to both of you. Eddie Johnson
Read more
07 Dec, 2023 by Julie
I very seldom write reviews but I feel compelled to tell people what a great experience I had with Benjamin Fox at Hubert Fox Trust and Estate law attorney office in Elk Grove California. One look at their website and you will feel at ease before you even pick up the phone. Dealing with attorneys can be very scary, at least it was for me. After just a few minutes speaking with Ben about a Trustee issue, I felt confident he knew what he was talking about and he explained my options in a very straightforward way without making me feel like an idiot. Ben has a natural warmth and grace that made me feel confident and comfortable to have him represent my best interests and speak to a judge and jury on my behalf. Ben was attentive to my concerns, requested to look at the Trust in question ,immediately reviewed the material and gave his advice free of charge. He spoke with clarity and honesty and he left a positive impression that I will not soon forget. Thanks,Ben!
Read more
28 Sep, 2023 by John
Benjamin Fox was very professional during consulting on a case regarding trust. This particular trust had a very complex issue so the experience really counted in this situation.
Read more
11 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
John is an easy going and smart person. He helped my family and I find closure. He listens, does his research accordingly, and responds to any questions that we have. He is the person to see for almost anything.
Read more
12 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
We hired John for medical malpractice and were very satisfy with the results. He keeps you informed and up to date with everything that is going on. Very easy to talk to.
Read more
05 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
We hired John Moreno for a Medical Malpractice case and we are greatly satisfied with the results. He is very well mannered, friendly and patient, easy to talk to.
Read more
09 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I came to Connor by referral. I was recently let go from a role that did not end well. I was harassed, bullied, and ultimately driven out of the organization by an extremely toxic culture.
After having a severance shoved in my face, I was very suspicious of the circumstances surrounding my termination. I spoke with Connor and provided ALL THE FACTS and he found several issues I wasn't aware of in addition to the grievances I had.
He was able to work with my employer and we settled on a sizable increase in severance in lieu of legal proceedings, something I never could have done on my own. He was very supportive and guided me through each step. He is also extremely professional.
If I ever have any issues again I will be working with him, and will send any of my colleagues his way.
Read more
26 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Connor and his team helped me successfully with an issue I had with my previous employer. I felt relieved and was impressed of his knowledge around employment law and would highly recommend that anyone with employment issues to use Connor and his team.
Read more
07 Feb, 2020 by Nick
Connor is the only attorney I've dealt with to give me prompt communication and amazing skills . If you have employment matter, hire Connor for highly effective results.
Read more
29 Apr, 2016 by Michelle
I had a medical malpractice case with Martha Taylor. I was extremely pleased with her and her staff. Obviously if you are in need of an attorney in this area of law, something has gone terribly wrong. Our case involved a minor and Martha was very conservative in her spending on expert witnesses medical experts toxicologist etc. That approach gave more money to the client after all involved were paid. All lawsuits take time sometimes years and even though our case presented special challenges she persevered and continued to Persue the best possible outcome. I found her assistant to be quick with call backs and extremely helpful with the sometimes daunting and hard to understand paperwork. I hope this review has been helpful to anyone researching miss Taylor as a potential hire for your malpractice case.
Read more
22 Mar, 2016 by Angela
I will forever be grateful for the opportunity of having Marti as our attorney. She is an excellent attorney, very knowledgeable and is not afraid to stand up for what is right. We had a very complex case that many lawyers turned us down not willing to help us. When Marti told us she would take our case it was such a relief to know someone who is confident & experienced enough to help us. I'm very pleased with the outcome of our experience with Marti & The Wilcoxen Law Firm. & feel truly blessed to have them on our side.
Read more
14 Jan, 2016 by Nichole
Marti assisted me in obtaining a swift and favorable resolution after I was involved in an automobile collision. She was consistently available to answer my questions and always did so with kindness. I would recommend Marti to friends and family.
Read more
15 Apr, 2021 by Dan
Asked an attorney friend for a recommendation when I received papers alleging breach of contract and lis pendens involving the sale of my home. Of the four recommendations, I narrowed it down to Mr. Benzinger. Best choice I could have made. A blend of James Spader and Andy Griffith, he was effective in his communication with opposing counsel, resulting in a very acceptable settlement out of court and dismissal of all filings. He took on the worry that I had been carrying and even made me laugh a number of times in our discussion. Great work, Mr. Benzinger. You are now on "speed dial," though I hope it will not ever be necessary...
Read more
29 May, 2017 by Justin
Mr. Benzinger walked me through every aspect of my case. He was courteous and prompt with documents and made me feel at ease through the entire process.
Read more
30 Sep, 2015 by Beth
I have been going though a difficult and prolonged case and fired my previous attorney. Andy has restored my faith in the legal system. He is honest, smart and ethical. He always kept me up to date on how issues were progressing, something my previous lawyer failed miserably at. He gave me realistic expectations and exceeded those expectations. His fees were very fair which was refreshing considering my previous counsel. Highly recommend him and if I ever need a lawyer again, he's the first person I'd call.
Read more
06 Aug, 2012 by Tabias cowan
Chris Wohl represented me on several cases launched by one person. These different lawsuits ended up taking a long time to finish (years) due to the other person and their lawyer purposely dragging their feet. Chris through the entire process was supportive, proactive and in constant communication with me as to what was going on with the each case as well as giving me guidance to my fully understanding the nuances of the cases. Chris took time to assuage my fears and concerns that crept up from time to time putting things into proper context for me so that I was not overwhelmed with the burdensome stress that comes with my being sued.
The case that Chris and his firm PKWH worked on involved a former employee who tried suing me on various counts, trying to not only to win money but cause damages in my professional as well as personal life. Out of the litigation many new facets emerged that were not necessarily involving employment law. These new facets were imagined/created by the staff person to try to enhance their cases against me in an attempt to get a large sum of money from my company. Chris tackled these issues with the vigorous tenacity that he showed in the initial cases to my esteemed gratification. His negotiating skills during arbitration were matched only by his knowledge of the applicable laws and ability to apply said knowledge.
While Chris will not promise a win when taking a case, the representation that he provided was the best of the best and win or lose, he would be in there fighting for me to the very end. During the various parts of the litigation he never once let me down in terms of his communication, representation and commitment to my case and in fact I feel that he went above and beyond what I expected.
In court, Chris continued his demonstrated professionalism in what was an emotionally exhaustive time for me. While being supportive of me he also was right there with words of encouragement that I needed at times just to get through the trial day. His courtroom aptitude was professional and straight forward. He has an obvious comfort in the court room that is heightened by his prudent abilities when speaking to the various persons during the court sessions.
I am glad to say that the case did result in my winning. Although I hope to never have to go to court again in my life, I am happy and extremely satisfied with the representation that I received from Chris Wohl.
Read more
19 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
As someone who is required to spend inordinate sums of money on legal due to the industry I am involved in, in both transactional and litigation expenses, C. Wohl at PKWH has been the first attorney I have worked with that consistently arrives at predetermined milestones under-budget.
I have worked with countless attorneys that will budget a task with a $25,000 variance and still bill 20% above the high estimate. This is not the case with PKWH. I feel that the integrity of the firm is superior to any other group I have worked with, in both quality of work and billing practices.
PKWH was very clear about defining my expectations upon engaging them and they have accomplished my goals without pushing unneeded services throughout the process. I am also especially impressed with Wohl's approach to depositions, in that his seemingly overly-calm approach to questioning yielded unprecedented results. If you are looking for a fair, yet extremely effective litigation attorney, look no further. PKWH has earned my loyalty for all of my legal needs.
Read more
12 Jul, 2012 by Curtis
I've had Chris Wohl and his law from represent my family business for a number of years. He has handled business litigation as well as employment law for our firm of 75 employees. He has proven to be a very competent attorney and has handled our matters in with success and always in our best interests.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Athman beidalah
Professional, very knowledgable and very customer oriented attorney
Read more
06 May, 2024 by Tj kortlever
Jennifer completed a full estate plan for my wife and me after we relocated to California from Washington State. Jennifer was thorough, thoughtful, compassionate, and quick to reply to all of our many questions.
We are so relieved to now have a complete estate plan in place that conforms to complicated California law. I can't recommend her and her team enough, they were wonderful.
Read more
04 May, 2024 by Sister mary
Jennifer helped our family when our father, who has dementia, was being mistreated by the hospital. The hospital staff would not allow any of the family to intervene or even access his patient records without a conservatorship in place. Jenna understood the urgency of the matter and put together the documents literally overnight. It still took a bit of time to get everything in place with the court, but Jenna kept us apprised of the process every step of the way. We can't thank her and her staff enough for their quick, compassionate assistance with what was a nightmare situation for our family.
Read more
16 Jan, 2015 by Rob
Quality service with a quick and through response. Law specific to my industry is confusing to say the least. Having Croxall Law in our corner has made navigating through the heaps of code much easier, less time consuming, and more importantly compliant with law. Mr. Croxall's service is used by my company on a weekly basis and we have never been let down. I have recommended him to friends and business associates and will continue to do so.
Read more
15 Jan, 2015 by Thomas
Mr. Croxall was knowledgeable and gave solid, practical advice. He turned our legal documents around quickly and was patient while explaining them to us and we did not feel rushed. His work product was well written and error free.
Read more
15 Jan, 2015 by Kyle
My wife and I engaged Daniel to assist us with the set up of a will and trust for our family. Daniel came recommended by a colleague and I, in turn, would recommend him to anyone close to me based on our experience.
We appreciated Daniel's counsel for several reasons:
- He demonstrated a nuanced understanding of key will and trust issues. He has a wealth of knowledge in this domain and it showed in his work.
- He is trustworthy, and valued the sensitive nature of personal information and all topics discussed during this process.
- He is efficient with his time and with his clients' time, leading him to offer to an affordable service and a pleasant experience.
- He is super responsive and willing to cater his schedule to his clients' needs. With small children in the house, it meant a lot to us that he would visit our home to complete the transactions associated with the will and trust.
- He's just easy to work with. He has a pleasant demeanor.
As someone who works frequently with lawyers I can highly recommend Dan for his attitude, expertise and high quality work.
Read more
22 Oct, 2014 by Perry
Very professional documents produced for court that was a rebuttal to the heartless credit card money hungers. I am planning to work on other issues with this law firm and I am sure I will get the same professional results I have already been given.
Read more
12 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Lajuan did an amazing job at keeping me informed. I had so many questions and her and her staff answered them promptly. She was very helpful, and extremely positive throughout my bankruptcy. I would highly recommend Lajuan Wood.
Read more
21 Feb, 2012 by Elza
If you prefer an attorney who will guide you through your Chapter 7 (or Chapter 13) bankrupty with the utmost respect, honesty, professionalism, and courtesy, I would highly recommend the Law Offices of LaJuan E. Wood.
Ms. Wood enthusiastically accepted my case when other "well-known" Sacramento bankruptcy attorneys wouldn't. Ms. Wood provided exceptional guidance and assistance throughout my (sometimes) stressful bankruptcy process.
Ms. Wood was always positive and assured me that "everything was going to be okay." She consistently returned my phone calls and answered all my questions (and believe me, I had alot of them).
My Chapter 7 bankrupty was sucessfully discharged in December 2011. My heart-felt thanks go to Ms. Wood. She definitely changed my opinion about attorneys.
So...if you're in need of an attorney, look no further and don't call anyone else in Sacramento...except the Law Offices of LaJuan E. Wood.
Read more
17 Jun, 2010 by James
I was extremely happy with Eileen representing my company in my case. She was very knowledgeable with all the constructioin laws. She kept me informed on how things were progressing. She always answered my calls and emails promptly and always took the necessary time to explain things to me very clearly. If I ever need a lawyer in the future Eileen would be my very first choice. I can't thank her enough.
Read more
16 Jun, 2010 by Robert
Eileen Booth was such a comfort at a time of extreme stress. She is one of the smartest people I have ever known.
Eileen was patient and understanding which made a difference when dealing with the difficulties of litigation.
Since I had no experience with arbitration, her knowledge and attention to detail made the difference. I would highly recommend Eileen Booth if ever you need an outstanding attorney.
Sincerely,
Robert Mills
R. Mills Construction
Read more
16 Jun, 2010 by Ben and sue
We have been in the construction business for over 45 years. For the past 3 years, we have worked with Eileen who is representing us on several construction defect cases.
Eileen has responded to our many questions by email and phone in a expedited manner. Her knowledge and follow up is amazing. Eileen even came to our home to discuss several of our cases.
We would highly recommend Eileen Booth to anyone who is seeking legal assistance. Call her ...she really cares about her clients!
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Sally
Miranda did a great job with my trust, will and related documents. We talked at length to ensure that we had a common understanding of what was needed and to address any questions I may have had. I would be more than glad to use her legal services again, and to recommend her to other clients.
Read more
01 Jun, 2024 by Ron
Miranda was responsive to our needs for an updated Trust/will and our short timetable before we traveled. She clearly answered all of our questions so that we understood all the legalese and made several suggestions to deal with our specific family needs and concerns.
My wife and I highly recommend her for your legal needs.
Read more
24 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Stephanie Finelli
Choosing Stephanie to be our lawyer was like hitting the “jack pot “
Smart, realistic really knows her stuff
And how to fight for it
I wish we had her for the trail court because we most likely would have never had to go to the appeal court
Where other lawyers turned our appeal case away she jump for it
She was excited to help us
She helped us file the right paper work at the right time
She gave us an opportunity turn this extremely unreasonable judgement that didn’t follow the law around
She wrote an amazing opening brief and reply brief
She is familiar with our case for oral argument
She is truly amazing no matter which way the appeal case goes
I know if you choose Stephanie ,
you have an amazing lawyer to back you up
Read more
23 Dec, 2015 by Xavier
It is my privilege to recommend the Law Office of Stephanie J. Finelli as an excellent practice focused on legal matters with regard to appellant law. Stephanie J. Finelli is an exceptional appellate attorney!
To be frank, I had an awful disposition due to the impacts of a trial court ruling. The legal process prior to that ruling had been very challenging and I was entangled in a legal experience no one should have.
I consulted with several appellate attorneys but Stephanie's engagement was remarkable. She is a legal expert. She understood the challenges and what was needed to unravel occurrences to achieve our goal. I will use a term I don’t really use but she was "brilliant" in her decomposition of issues and analysis of the ruling in the trial court. She identified a dichotomy in the case law applied and its applicability to our case as well as a need to improve the law. That was the basis for her argument before the State of California Appellate Court. Unfortunately, the appellate court did what it is inclined to do: it found a way to uphold the ruling of the trial court.
In spite of circumstances, I had rather optimistic expectations of outcomes from the appellate court. Stephanie had confidence in her argument but leveled our expectations with pragmatism. The ruling was disappointing and a seemingly devastating blow. It is in times like that when “having a legal expert to represent your interests and provide you with counsel” really matters. Stephanie was respectful of the appellate court's ruling and explained it to me. However, she also told me she believed the appellate court "did not get it right" and explained why. Her counsel was to persist with our argument to the State of California Supreme Court.
Stephanie performed an analysis to identify issues with the ruling of the State of California Appellate Court. She believed asserting the issues identified would be compelling for the State of California Supreme Court to consider our case. She believed if the Supreme Court would accept our case, the veracity of our argument may prevail.
The rest of my accounting is history now...for the State of California. The State of California Supreme Court (it declines ~90% of the cases submitted to it) was compelled to accept our case. Stephanie was excellent in her presentation and argument to defend our case. She won and changed/improved a rather fundamental law that governs us in the state of California. She helped establish a “bright line” that improved Family Law in California.
I highly recommend the Law Office of Stephanie J. Finelli. Stephanie is principled, a resolute litigator, and a very good person. Stephanie J. Finelli is what every person needs their lawyer to be: candid, a consummate professional, a legal expert, and a winner!
Read more
05 May, 2017 by Tiffany
I called this attorney needing some fast and quick answers and she was willing to go out of her way to pick the phone up and point me in the correct direction. It was much appreciated.
Read more
22 Aug, 2013 by Patrick
Ms. Duggan represented our family business in sizeable dispute. She got our business the best possible outcome and we are so grateful!
Read more
14 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
Attorney Dunn was responsive, professional while still warm and friendly. His attention to detail was supberb as well as his ability to not let any of the tiny details slip through the cracks. I was kept well informed of what paper work was coming my way as well as lay terms to interpret how all the legal ease related to me and my case. Over all I was extremely satisfied with Mr. Dunn as an attorney.
Read more
27 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Lara does a great job explaining the restraining order process and helping you through it.
Read more
05 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Prior to seeking Mr. Kuzmich advice on multiple business, which are then personal in my mind. I was losing mind along with respect for most attorneys. I realize passing the bar is very difficult? I also realize the mayor of LA failed the bar four times! Said the hell with it? I will try to sort out LA!!! Jag-off!
Apologize back to Micheal... I was shocked at this mans knowledge. But most important his deminor and character. He simply shot straight and cared. You simply do not see adults either dolts or with Micheals level of knowledge really concerned or simply doing the job they are not qualified or more than qualified to preform...
I will continue to consult with Michael Kuzmich as needed for legal advice outside the scope of realistate. I'm sure he will lead me in the right direction.
Thanks
Read more
15 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Saved our bacon in a protracted eminent domain case many years ago. The other side's appraiser used comps that were not allowable, and Gary skillfully yet subtly pointed this out to the court and jury. Gary knows his condemnation law. Thank you!
Read more
19 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I really liked working with Janet Marie Meredith because she is proactive. She is able to target what needs to get done while being very straightforward and honest.
Read more
21 Jan, 2017 by Elisabeth
Anthony handled a DUI for my son On behalf of my insurance company. I was impressed that he could negotiate well with the other attorney that was obviously trying to promote the case as more serious than it was. He had the brains to cut the losses and protect my family and myself from any further litigation. He treated both myself and my son who got the D U I with respect. Took the time to personally meet and speak with my son a few times to get his side of the story even though my son was in jail.
Read more
26 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I have known Domenic for years; I was even an employee of his for several years. I can say without a doubt he is one of the best attorneys in California- he is honest, hardworking, and always conducts business with integrity and class.
Read more
30 Dec, 2020 by Jan
When your co-trustee says "your dad's property will be your problem when I die" and the trust lawyer ignores letters and requests to try and work things out, you need the best. Tyson immediately took the lead. With his knowledge, thoroughness, persistence and charming personality, he followed through on every aspect of my dad's estate. He negotiated a final settlement that was agreeable to all. Losing a loved one is not easy; a co-trustee who thinks the estate belongs to her is doubly disheartening. Tyson truly made a difficult situation easier -- I always want him on my team.
Read more
09 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I was looking to file bankruptcy for a chapter 7 and I wanted someone who was very knowledge. Then I came across Kale. What a wonderful person. After doing the initial meet I hired him and we began the process. We both were able to work on the process which I really enjoyed being apart of and doing some research to. It’s not required but I wanted to be very active in the process. We had our debt collector meeting and to our surprise one of debt collectors shows up and I have to say Kale handle that very well. Overall I had a really good experience with him. I have recommended him to friends and family. Thank you for helping with the process. I truly appreciate it.
Read more
20 Dec, 2015 by Debra love franz
I did not hire Mr, Muller at this time, I have had the privilege to have him as my attorney in the past, He is a excellent one, he gives very good advice, open and honest, He'll give you his best opinion and let you decide what you what, I would and have given his name to other people that needed help. He is a terrific attorney!!
Read more
19 May, 2016 by Matt
Mr. Murphy is an excellent attorney who was able to advise me on a case in which I felt I'd been taken advantage of by an insurance company.
He cleared up any confusion I had and helped me to proceed in a way that allowed me to protect myself and my assets.
Read more
14 Mar, 2017 by Pauline
I contacted Anthony for advice on an inherited promissory note regarding a deed of trust. Anthony listened to my concerns, reviewed the existing related documents, researched and recommended the appropriate action. He prepared the necessary document and wrote a description of the action taken for my file for any future actions on the property. I was very satisfied.
Read more
21 Oct, 2010 by Steve
My agency has followed Melissa's legal advice for the past six years regarding wastewater discharge regulations. I my opinion, she is among the best in the business! Her written matierials are excellent, she is an excellent speaker, and most importantly her depth of knowledge is outstanding! I highly recommend her!
Read more
29 Nov, 2012 by Jennifer
Tom and the staff at Northern California Justice Center helped me handle a complex but personal case. They are, without a doubt the most professional, and courteous attorneys in the Sacramento area. They worked hard to earn my trust, and were aggressive when the chips were down. I offer my highest recommend of their firm and their staff.
Read more
02 Oct, 2023 by Steve
Austin Adams has been an amazing lawyer regarding our petition for unlawful distribution of Living Will assets that were left to my wife but not distributed accordingly by the Trustee. Austin was very thorough in his due diligence and in sighting multiple applicable laws within our petition. He was also very responsive to our many queries and suggestions via emails and meetings. We are extremely pleased with the court's decision to award all assets returned to the estate and distributed to my wife. I HIGHLY recommend Austin Adams and the Huber Fox law firm.
Read more
20 Dec, 2019 by Linda
I consulted with Port Parker for a second opinion about a defamation case in which I was a defendant. The strategy he proposed was resonant with my sentiments to support the facts and hold the plaintiff accountable for legal expenses associated with a meritless case, though I could not hire him for that case because it was nearing a conclusion.
I consulted with Mr. Parker a second time when the plaintiff in the defamation case against me filed for guardianship of our mother. His guidance helped me to articulate a course of action I was comfortable with, and ultimately helped me to discern which attorney would be most representative of my position in the guardianship case. My sisters and I prevailed in that case.
Finally, I hired Mr. Parker to restore a measure of justice in the defamation case, and with perseverance and skill he secured a refund for me.
Mr. Parker proved himself to be articulate, powerful, objective, ethical, and he was sensitive to my concerns.
I have the highest regard for him and all of his staff.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
