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16 Feb, 2025 by Tracy byrd
Best in the business!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Arnece roberts
If I could give 0 stars I would. Absolutely THE problem when it comes to attorneys this day and age.(maybe it’s just with men). If you want a game where you're being strung along and billed forever playing the rollercoaster game with you and your children's life instead of evidence being presented in a costly/timely and empathetic manner THIS IS YOUR GUY. Mr. Bancroft, i just got off the phone with you where you hung up on me stating that I’m threatening you. Get over your ego and realize that your business as a practicing attourney needs realignment. I wrote you about a standing invoice you provided totaling to less than the amount that Ive paid to you months prior with no response. After speaking to your paralegal, then being transferred to your “billing dept.” and speaking to them I was provided with a newer invoice…..with newer charges, where whomever was working before had originally just simply “forgot to send me the invoice”….what a convenient coincidence. After speaking with her, I was transferred to you where I had a conversation with your ego. Well, from the little guy(s) down here Mr. Bancroft, do whats right and fabricating invoices to skip out on paying balances owed on any moneys paid to you for the services that you DID NOT PROVIDE are just not that. Client paid $1750 in retainer fees(half of your 3500 to get the case started) and had to chase said attourney down for enquiries with little to no communications outside of ones that were initiated by me/client, INCLUDING in person conversation with YOU where I unexpectedly paid a visit to your office in August after I could not successfully contact anyone and asked about a status of my case. You did not recall my case by name until we went to your office and you searched my name.(keep in mind, this is three months after contracting). Attourney invoicing per attourney-client portals all state work for balance of $753, with latest payment from client being $631 in October.(this never happened, only payment made was the initial one and didn't make another due to subpar and in my opinion MALPRACTICAL, I'm aware that isn't an official word, service). After a few months of calling and majorly being placed on hold, back and forth’s with promises of returned calls or motions with paralegals, multiples of them and finally being frustrated with the reality of paying an attourney and not being fought for……while fighting a vindictive situation with my children as a GREAT DAD I asked for an explanation stating that if I did not hear anything as ai had been I wanted to discontinue services and be refunded via message inside of the client portal, I THEN was given a response…..but not with accountability, not with a plan of action, not to communicate any valuable evidence or structured plan of action, but to speak downward of me on the “dismal” months of non-payment……….ultimately this attourney demanded I paid him his past due amount, in addition to totals for mediations that hadn't even been had yet to avoid him WITHDRAWING. Needless to say I attended the mediation PRO SE, paid the mediator directly. I’m now on maximum state mandated child support and standard visitation for the children I equally raised because the relationship did not work out with their mother…finally divorced none the less. All of the evidence in the world to fight that good fight never presented, never saw a represented court setting, money just wasted and thank GOD I demanded a standard or it could have been MUCH MUCH worse financially. Contracted with this attourney on 5/24/2024….attourney withdrew as of 11/5/2024, yet they have still attempted to withdraw payment from my bank as of latest, 12/19/2024…….this was my SECOND attourney over a course of what I recall as a 3 year nightmare……I can confidently say, this is whats wrong with the family law system! Will edit with photo documentation when I have time.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Colton king
My wife and I had to deal with CPS so we hired Valerie to represent us, and we are so happy we did! She laid out a plan, kept us in the loop, and got us through the case with a favorable outcome. Well worth the money! Thank you so much!
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30 Jan, 2025 by John dyess
We hired Rosenblatt Law Firm to organize our corporation for updating owners and we also had to hire RLF to go after a competitor. If we could give 10 stars ⭐️ we would. Fantastic service. 😃
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17 Jan, 2025 by K b
Received a threatening letter from Mary Lisa in 2022, and replied via email as that was the contact info in the letter. Still have never received a reply. This firm sent me a threatening letter, and when replied to, never once confirmed receipt of reply or issued any type of communication in return. Don’t threaten people, request a response, and then not reply to that response. When I replied to the salacious, threatening letter, more than adequate information was provided to refute the falsehoods in the letter sent to me. Not sending a reply to my response is actually the complete opposite of professional. It is actually unethical within the bounds of the Texas state law to threaten litigation with no intention of following through. If you need more information, comb through your outgoing letters and your received emails. That would require work on your end, though.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Martin jaeger
I have never been involved in a lawsuit. Elena with Rosenblatt Law guided me through the process, reassured me, and orchestrated a fair settlement. I was very happy with my decision to have Rosenblatt Law represent me.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Virginia villarreal
I would like to thank Cruz and Payne for being so professional , and sympathetic to all my needs. They are truely great lawyers. Fernando for getting everything situated. Lauro for always putting my needs first Margie for staying in contact with me
Lauro checking up on me, and always keeping me updated, through this entire year of taking care of me. I would recommend them to any one who needs help . Godbless you all and thank you ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
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30 May, 2024 by Tara arnold
Highly recommend working with John Low and his team. This is by far the most efficient law firm I have worked with. I am proud to call myself a faithful client!
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22 Dec, 2023 by Gilbert vela
It was a pleasure working with Mr. Ochoa . He is very informative when it comes to any issues or concerns one may have and has great staff who are very pleasant and make you feel like you're their only client. Highly recommend
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20 Oct, 2024 by Jose hernandez
08 Mar, 2024 by Alann torres
Our attorney for all our business needs. Professional and practical. Mr. Steven B. Treu has been a tactical master and a bulldog when needed. His counsel is valued.
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14 Jan, 2024 by Roger schultz
20 Oct, 2024 by Jose hernandez
08 Mar, 2024 by Alann torres
Our attorney for all our business needs. Professional and practical. Mr. Steven B. Treu has been a tactical master and a bulldog when needed. His counsel is valued.
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14 Jan, 2024 by Roger schultz
20 Oct, 2024 by Jose hernandez
08 Mar, 2024 by Alann torres
Our attorney for all our business needs. Professional and practical. Mr. Steven B. Treu has been a tactical master and a bulldog when needed. His counsel is valued.
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14 Jan, 2024 by Roger schultz
20 Oct, 2024 by Jose hernandez
08 Mar, 2024 by Alann torres
Our attorney for all our business needs. Professional and practical. Mr. Steven B. Treu has been a tactical master and a bulldog when needed. His counsel is valued.
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14 Jan, 2024 by Roger schultz
20 Oct, 2024 by Jose hernandez
08 Mar, 2024 by Alann torres
Our attorney for all our business needs. Professional and practical. Mr. Steven B. Treu has been a tactical master and a bulldog when needed. His counsel is valued.
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14 Jan, 2024 by Roger schultz
20 Oct, 2024 by Jose hernandez
08 Mar, 2024 by Alann torres
Our attorney for all our business needs. Professional and practical. Mr. Steven B. Treu has been a tactical master and a bulldog when needed. His counsel is valued.
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14 Jan, 2024 by Roger schultz
21 Nov, 2024 by Denis chavez
The team at DMCA worked on my case for several years, their dedication to putting together a solid case shows. Very hard working attorneys that were very knowledgeable in the law. They helped guide me through this complicated process. Magaly Rojas and David Armendáriz were there with me step by step and were always able to answer my questions and concerns any time I needed it. I am very appreciative of their time, and long hours they put into my case.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Rosalinda licona
Excelente bufete de abogados para cualquier tema migratorio. Traté con varios de ellos ya que ellos llevaron mi caso cuando aplique para la residencia (Faye Kolly y Claudia Baellow), y también cuando apliqué para la ciudadanía (Claudia Baellow y Linda Garcia)
Jamás tuve un problema o diferencia con ellas. Contestaron todas mis preguntas, llamadas, correos electrónicos y demás. Aún cuando pregunté lo mismo varias veces. Aún cuando se me olvidaron cosas que ya me habían dicho, etc, etc. Toda la comunicación puede ser en español con ellas si es necesario. O en ambos idiomas.
Las he recomendado con toda confianza a varias amistades y familiares para sus preguntas y trámites migratorios. Hasta las he recomendado a extraños que preguntan "alguien sabe de algún abogado de migración...".
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19 Nov, 2024 by Aldo moran
Highly recommended, they are professional, warm and with a high commitment to their clients.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Makayla jones
03 Dec, 2024 by Knotjunkiienesse
Great attorney, case dismissed
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30 Sep, 2024 by Geneva garza
My son was accused of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for flattening someone’s tires! TIRES , not a person!! Long story short CASE DISMISSED!! We’ve used Mr. Cantrell since the 90’s he never disappoints!!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Charlie uresti
Lisa was very attentive to our concerns when it came to handling our father's estate. Her knowledge of the law is impressive. She addresses all the issues. I have referred her to several of my friends and one of them said she looks so sweet but she's really a tiger!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Bobby hernandez
Lisa was awesome. She was able to help me set our company contracts in place. As a small company this is one of the headaches we deal with and she made it easy to deal with. Highly recommend.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Jeff tom
Lisa was meticulous in ensuring my will accurately reflected my wishes. Her knowledge and compassion made the process manageable. Look no further if you need a trustworthy attorney to handle your will or probate matters.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Charlie uresti
Lisa was very attentive to our concerns when it came to handling our father's estate. Her knowledge of the law is impressive. She addresses all the issues. I have referred her to several of my friends and one of them said she looks so sweet but she's really a tiger!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Bobby hernandez
Lisa was awesome. She was able to help me set our company contracts in place. As a small company this is one of the headaches we deal with and she made it easy to deal with. Highly recommend.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Jeff tom
Lisa was meticulous in ensuring my will accurately reflected my wishes. Her knowledge and compassion made the process manageable. Look no further if you need a trustworthy attorney to handle your will or probate matters.
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12 Feb, 2025 by Kdrama fanatic
If you want to lose custody of your child, please call this attorney. He doesn’t fight for you at all.
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11 Feb, 2025 by Billo bah
I am incredibly grateful for the exceptional legal representation I received from Ricardo at the Law Office of Ricardo Briones. From our very first meeting, it was clear that I was in good hands.
Despite the overwhelming thoughts I had, Ricardo took the time to listen to my concerns and thoroughly explained the legal processes and my options. I felt supported and informed every step of the way. Throughout the process, he was always responsive and accessible, promptly addressing any questions or concerns I had.
His attention to detail and strategic approach were instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome—my case was dismissed! I couldn’t be happier. Thank you, Ricardo, for helping me get my life back on track!
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06 Feb, 2025 by D'shaun
PLEASE EMAIL, DM, TEXT OR CALL ME BEFORE RETAINING HIS SERVICES, I WOULD LIKE TO PROVIDE MY TEXTS, AND CALL LOGS TO SHOW HOW LITTLE HE COULD CARE ABOUT HIS CLIENTS OR THEIR CHILDREN. PLEASE GO WITH ANYBODY ELSE. i have dozens more texts showing the exact same lack of care.
I strongly advise no one to ever reach out to this man, he is a sad excuse for an attorney, led me astray and made unfulfilled promises that led to me asking him to remove himself from my case. His withdraw however, was not amicable nor was it respectful, after ignoring calls for days and weeks, forgetting emails, it’ll be 8 months since I’ve seen my kids fooling with Ricardo. Countless texts & calls showing his negligence, AND THEN, attempts to blame me in his withdraw paperwork about why he’s withdrawing.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Dwayne hall
Rob Lorree is a very intelligent and diligent attorney. He cares and communicates with his clients. Of upmost concern, he is able to quickly understand complex claim issues and render legal advice that makes sense. I would recommend him to my family if they had questions about an insurance claim.
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19 Apr, 2023 by Katy barber
30 Aug, 2022 by Brian pashen
Great experience working with Loree & Lipscomb on large loss insurance claims. Professional, knowledgeable, and aggressive firm.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Cynthia
Went to Royal Lea with a Real Estate Fraud case that I had done almost all of the evidence gathering. He even told me it was as close to a 'slam dunk' as it gets. He completely dropped the ball during mediation after talking privately with the other attorney and wanted me to take an agreed judgement (which took me 15 YEARS TO COLLECT). l fired him immediately and took on the collection of the judgment myself. By the time I actually collected the judgment, it wasn't even enough to cover the cost of repairing the building which the case was originally based on.
FIND A DIFFERENT ATTORNEY IF YOU REALLY WANT SOMEONE WHO KNOWS THEIR STUFF.
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27 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
I first met Royal when he sued a client. He handled himself very well, demonstrated deep knowledge of securities law and litigation procedure, and was a worthy adversary. He is very comfortable in a class action or individual claim and as zealous in mediation as court. Top notch.
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07 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
Royal Lea is in my opinion the best attorney in the country. My cases lasted approximately 18 months and I have never seen a more competent, professional, prepared attorney. As a result of his expertise, both of my cases settled with an outcome that was beyond our expectations. We would all prefer to avoid legal circumstances in general, that being said, situations arise and when they do the attorney is absolutely the key to being successful. I would recommend Mr. Lea to anyone requirng legal advice/service and I would certainly use him again should I ever require legal assistance.
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11 Jan, 2025 by Roxanne barlow
I had a highly concerning experience with the attorney Ty Sheehan He attempted to pressure me into signing documents for $25,000 to ‘keep things quiet,’ which I believe is unethical and potentially illegal. When I refused, he threatened to involve law enforcement. This behavior felt unprofessional and intimidating, and I cannot recommend his services to others
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29 Sep, 2023 by Seth prescott
I have worked with several of the attorneys here and they are all outstanding!
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19 Feb, 2020 by Robert nelson
11 Jan, 2025 by Roxanne barlow
I had a highly concerning experience with the attorney Ty Sheehan He attempted to pressure me into signing documents for $25,000 to ‘keep things quiet,’ which I believe is unethical and potentially illegal. When I refused, he threatened to involve law enforcement. This behavior felt unprofessional and intimidating, and I cannot recommend his services to others
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29 Sep, 2023 by Seth prescott
I have worked with several of the attorneys here and they are all outstanding!
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19 Feb, 2020 by Robert nelson
04 Feb, 2021 by Brian
When I met Maribel I was lost. I couldn’t get my previous lawyer to return my calls or answer my emails. Within an hour of meeting her she was on the phone and working my case. Seeing her in action during litigation cemented the fact that she was the right person for the job.
I have trusted her with my most valuable treasures...my Family. I would trust time and time again.
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03 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Mrs. Cruz was very passionate about my case. She was always very personable, professional and a strong fighter in the courtroom. She was good with moving the case along and was always open to hearing my concerns. I'd highly recommend her.
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01 Feb, 2021 by Brandon
Extremely slow on preparing and filing for a case. Very expensive was being charged $100 per text message that went to her paralegal. When it came time for the case she was to busy and had to pass my case off to another lawyer. With other lawyer we basically had to start all over as she was not involved or familiar with my case from the beginning. All of this was being charged to me so it was like I had to pay for two lawyers. When the court date finally arrived the new lawyer which was Miss Day appointed by Miss Cruz was very unknowledgeable and the case was thrown out. I wouldn’t hire either of them two as all they do is try and drag it out as long as possible to be able to charge you more hours.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Jordan f
Sheri did an awesome job on my case. She is super professional and knows what she is doing. I will forever be grateful for what she did.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Ramona pena
This attorney didn't do nothing for me but helped me lose my case! Still been 3yrs that I have requested my original documents I trusted with her and have not received them , I was told by a employee that works for her that our documents have been misplaced
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27 Sep, 2024 by Nandi landeros
02 Dec, 2017 by Jennie
I hired Kevin Stouwie in Feb of 2017 because my husband was continuously denied parole for the past 6 years. I finally was in search of a parole attorney. I called on the weekend and left a message for someone to return my call. He called me directly back on Monday and informed me that it was unusual for him to return phone calls, but his office help was out for the day. He was very attentive and asked multiple questions and explained the parole process and what his role would be. He truly cared about helping my husband be released. He didn't understand why he kept being denied parole. He frankly told me that sometimes all it takes is an attorney fighting for an incarcerated loved one and perhaps just asking WHY? He gained my trust and I felt like I was making the right decision in hiring him. I couldn't afford the full $2500 at the time, and he gladly arranged a flexible payment plan for me to pay it in full over the next 6 months before his parole review began. Also, I paid an additional $300 because I opted for Kevin to visit with my husband at his unit as well. This $300 was just for travel expenses and I had no problem with the amount. Over the next 6 months I would feel uneasy and want to ask questions, I sent all items requested to help his office prepare a parole packet... I would call and ask questions just because I was a nervous wreck. His staff was always helpful and encouraging and always available to assist me. I didn't speak with him directly again until after the parole hearing. They called me a week before and informed me of when the parole hearing would take place with Kevin and I was filled with anxiety and worry and just a ball of emotions!! Office manager Heather gladly talked to me and advised me of what to expect. Now, my husband is coming home! I wish I had hired Kevin 4 yrs ago! He definitely fights for his clients and wins!! Thank you Kevin Stouwie!! I'm eternally grateful for your help in restoring my family!!!
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17 Oct, 2016 by Steve
don't hire this atty ... I hired him..5k later over 1 yr .. no contact from his office.. would not return ph calls...written grievance to state was denied...
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25 May, 2010 by Anonymous
I was not a big fan of lawyers, but needed one because of a lawsuit that was filed against me for a contract dispute. I was given Kevin's name and one other attorney. I called both places. The other guy didn't call me back. So, I met with kevin after one of his assistants got my facts and information and scheduled an appointment. He was not what I expected, and that's a good thing. He was really nice, and made me feel welcome while he was reading all my paperwork. He asked me a bunch of questions, took notes, and then he told me my options, including options that did not involve him getting anything. I never felt like he was trying to scare me or get me to hire him. Once I saw he didn't need my case and just wanted me to make an informed decision, I knew he was trustworthy.
He ended up chargingd me a lot less than what others had told me lawyers charge, and he got the job done without taking forever. He was always available via email, but it was sometimes difficult to get him on the phone, due to his busy schedule I guess.
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07 Jan, 2015 by Mario
After seeing other lawyers nobody want my case ,he see the light in to the dark I recommend him 100% he fight for me in court now am American citizen thank you
Mario S
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17 Feb, 2014 by Michael
Steven Redgate and his "team" are a joke. I hired him about 5 years ago to obtain my permanet residence and it was a disater at the end. When I first met with Mr. Redgate he promised me that would go to all hearings and when it came down to going he didn't know There was one scheduled and on top of that he wanted to charge me extra for going. He stated in the beginning that my fee would cover all that but it didn't. I ended up going to the meeting by myself but luckly for me I becaom a permanet resident.Thanks for nothing Mr. Redgate.
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17 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
I have seen the other reviews and I do not understand how people would say those things. Mr. Redgate handled my immigration case and told me that it would be difficult from the very beginning. He told me my options and explained everything that he could do. He also told me to talk to other lawyers so that I would be sure that I was comfortable dealing with whoever took my case. I took his advice and did speak to other lawyers but after listening to them decided to go with Mr. Redgate. The case took a long time to complete and we had to go to several hearings, but we were successful!
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08 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr Garza over saw complicated personal injury lawsuit where my nephew hit by drunk driver and became quadriplegic. Very supportive and positive outcome in a multistate case.
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21 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
I was referred to Mr. Garza to represent me. We spoke several times, and he agreed to represent me. He was going to send me the representation agreement that day, or the next day. No agreement arrived. There were several more phone calls, several more promises of a forthcoming representation agreement. Meanwhile, other persons, who required the name of the person who was representing me, were becoming frantic. After about 2 months, when no agreement arrived, I gave up - and found another attorney. I never heard from Mr. Garza after the last phone call I made to him, when he yet again promised to send me the agreement.
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22 Mar, 2023 by John snow
Lack of communication, professionalism and basic courtesy. Secretary doesn’t have a clue when he is in/out. Asked to call back and he wasn’t there, asked to call back on Saturday. Emailed to confirm he was there on Saturday and secretary failed to respond. Mr Bryant left a vm that he would send email to address contract issues. No response to emails, voicemail or text messages. Phone appointment set up and no call. No communication to address. Finally received text from Mr Bryant stating that he would send email addressing contract. He was busy dealing with family and kids. Since that text, no communication whatsoever from secretary or Mr Bryant. Left voicemails, many emails and text messages, no response. Wants a high dollar for subpar nonexistent services. If he didn’t want to handle case, simple communication would suffice instead of wasting my time and aggravation.
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27 Mar, 2017 by Jory
Nohl Bryant is a smart hardworking lawyer who cares about his clients. After working with Mr. Bryant on a case, I was deeply impressed by how much he cared about his clients, and how hard he worked to achieve the best possible result for his clients.
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04 Oct, 2022 by Scott
Adrian failed to file expert witness list on time with the court. Failed to file a full witness list on time. Failed to file a full exhibits list on time. Never failed to send bills.
By far the worst lawyer I have ever encountered. If you value your case and money, run away.
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15 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Adrian is very knowledgeable and will go above and beyond for his clients. He was able to dismiss my case and I never had to go to court. He absolutely knows what he is doing and always calls back. I highly recommend him as an attorney.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Albert
Do not hire, you will get burnt, he will take your case so far and then quit, walk away, leave you hanging. You will be forced to hire another lawyer, to clean up his mess and finish the case, and it's not cheap. He will sit on a bad ruling because he wasn't prepared and that will hurt your case, on top of that you will get the pleasure and "expense" of filling an appeal that isn't cheap and then do the trial again. Of course I had to give him one star, because it requires something, too bad it doesn't have negative stars .
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20 Aug, 2019 by Priscilla
Me. Denton has been a very down to earth. He shows a interest in our case. He’s straight forward and has not come off as a money grubbing lawyer. I truly feel he has our best interests at hart and is willing to be straightforward on billing. Any intelligent lawyer needs to be compensated for there time but fairly of course. He is very intelligent, makes us comfortable and has made us very happy at this point.
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28 Mar, 2021 by Michael s
Attorney Magoo was professional, knowledgeable, and very understanding during our legal process. She explained everything well, and helped us through our issues during the passing of our loved one. We appreciated all her hard work and understanding.
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24 Sep, 2020 by Erin
Rosiee is professional, compassionate and responsive. She was recommended to me, and I can't say enough good things about her.
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29 Jan, 2019 by Rebecca
Never again!!!! I did all the work and she dropped us after she went missing for almost a year!! Waste of money!! She never returns calls or emails but will charge you for calling and emailing her!!
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24 Jul, 2024 by Sammy warmbier
Little note for anyone who happens to park here for less than 5 minutes, even though there's no notice or sign for "private parking," you'll be asked to leave aggressively because of the ladies who work here and they'll be watching you until you leave.
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13 Jul, 2022 by Iveseenyour brain
Unethical and obscene.
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28 Jun, 2022 by Andres lopez
24 Jul, 2024 by Sammy warmbier
Little note for anyone who happens to park here for less than 5 minutes, even though there's no notice or sign for "private parking," you'll be asked to leave aggressively because of the ladies who work here and they'll be watching you until you leave.
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13 Jul, 2022 by Iveseenyour brain
Unethical and obscene.
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28 Jun, 2022 by Andres lopez
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.
