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11 Sep, 2024 by Mark b
Nixon Peabody were exceptional to work with, their team understood all the complexities of our case. There is always some anxiety when dealing with these things but they kept their hours low and cost within reason.
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23 Mar, 2023 by Nishit prajapati
25 May, 2019 by Yusef khan
11 Sep, 2024 by Mark b
Nixon Peabody were exceptional to work with, their team understood all the complexities of our case. There is always some anxiety when dealing with these things but they kept their hours low and cost within reason.
Read more
23 Mar, 2023 by Nishit prajapati
25 May, 2019 by Yusef khan
06 Aug, 2024 by Sheel mohnot
11 May, 2024 by Junyi shan
I contacted Dhillon Law Group about a defamation case that I would like to pursue in February 2024. Now three months have passed, and I never heard back from them.
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24 Mar, 2024 by Christopher bout
I would like to express sincere and heartfelt gratitude for the work of Jesse Franklin-Murdock and the Center for American Liberty's extraordinary support in my case. From the outset, when I had that initial call with Eric Sell, and with Josh Dixon – they immediately pulled in strong resources and subsequently Mr. Franklin-Murdock. All these actions and the associated conversations demonstrated dedication, professionalism, superior competency, knowledge, and application of relevant case law by everyone who touched my case but most of all you, Jesse, so thank you! You yourself Jesse, went well above expectation by fielding calls and executing on some key action items, even while on international vacation.
Jesse, to you and the entire Center for American Liberty and the entire Dhillon Law Group – THANK YOU for defending my rights with vigor, professionalism, superior application of law, a successful outcome, and for the intangibles like diligence, listening, empathy and that unique feeling that I, as a client, actually matter. Ten thousand kudos to you!
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08 Mar, 2023 by Amelia bonilla
15 Jan, 2023 by Andrew semaan
06 Jul, 2022 by Derek ryan
08 Mar, 2023 by Amelia bonilla
15 Jan, 2023 by Andrew semaan
06 Jul, 2022 by Derek ryan
08 Mar, 2023 by Amelia bonilla
15 Jan, 2023 by Andrew semaan
06 Jul, 2022 by Derek ryan
5.0
20 Reviews
4.0
214 Reviews
17 Aug, 2024 by B r iana fortson
So after 4 months of thinking my case involving a infestation of mice & rats(caught 15)was being worked on, I found out that my case was terminated almost immediately after accepting my case because I answered no to one of the criminal background questions that mentioned having any recent criminal activities etc which is true, over 6 years plus is not recent so I guess they don’t trust to represent us because of that I feel it’s discrimination because what does having a criminal record have to do with us needing the help?! It shouldn’t have even taking me reaching out to find this out. Very unprofessional for a law firm & they don’t have your best interest obviously.. like how you can’t sympathize with a family that obviously needs representation & justice from & very inhabitable situation if that’s your job?!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Goodarz filsouf
I had a quick session with Julie Hartlé , first of all, she is an amazing person, very understanding, and also very professional and well-informed about the issues we were having. She has an extensive background with different housing departments and also knows disability law very well. She gave me sound advice and we set up a follow-up. I can say that I am very happy with the value they provided me in this session and highly recommend them.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Mharco juliano
17 Aug, 2024 by B r iana fortson
So after 4 months of thinking my case involving a infestation of mice & rats(caught 15)was being worked on, I found out that my case was terminated almost immediately after accepting my case because I answered no to one of the criminal background questions that mentioned having any recent criminal activities etc which is true, over 6 years plus is not recent so I guess they don’t trust to represent us because of that I feel it’s discrimination because what does having a criminal record have to do with us needing the help?! It shouldn’t have even taking me reaching out to find this out. Very unprofessional for a law firm & they don’t have your best interest obviously.. like how you can’t sympathize with a family that obviously needs representation & justice from & very inhabitable situation if that’s your job?!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Goodarz filsouf
I had a quick session with Julie Hartlé , first of all, she is an amazing person, very understanding, and also very professional and well-informed about the issues we were having. She has an extensive background with different housing departments and also knows disability law very well. She gave me sound advice and we set up a follow-up. I can say that I am very happy with the value they provided me in this session and highly recommend them.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Mharco juliano
17 Aug, 2024 by B r iana fortson
So after 4 months of thinking my case involving a infestation of mice & rats(caught 15)was being worked on, I found out that my case was terminated almost immediately after accepting my case because I answered no to one of the criminal background questions that mentioned having any recent criminal activities etc which is true, over 6 years plus is not recent so I guess they don’t trust to represent us because of that I feel it’s discrimination because what does having a criminal record have to do with us needing the help?! It shouldn’t have even taking me reaching out to find this out. Very unprofessional for a law firm & they don’t have your best interest obviously.. like how you can’t sympathize with a family that obviously needs representation & justice from & very inhabitable situation if that’s your job?!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Goodarz filsouf
I had a quick session with Julie Hartlé , first of all, she is an amazing person, very understanding, and also very professional and well-informed about the issues we were having. She has an extensive background with different housing departments and also knows disability law very well. She gave me sound advice and we set up a follow-up. I can say that I am very happy with the value they provided me in this session and highly recommend them.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Mharco juliano
17 Aug, 2024 by B r iana fortson
So after 4 months of thinking my case involving a infestation of mice & rats(caught 15)was being worked on, I found out that my case was terminated almost immediately after accepting my case because I answered no to one of the criminal background questions that mentioned having any recent criminal activities etc which is true, over 6 years plus is not recent so I guess they don’t trust to represent us because of that I feel it’s discrimination because what does having a criminal record have to do with us needing the help?! It shouldn’t have even taking me reaching out to find this out. Very unprofessional for a law firm & they don’t have your best interest obviously.. like how you can’t sympathize with a family that obviously needs representation & justice from & very inhabitable situation if that’s your job?!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Goodarz filsouf
I had a quick session with Julie Hartlé , first of all, she is an amazing person, very understanding, and also very professional and well-informed about the issues we were having. She has an extensive background with different housing departments and also knows disability law very well. She gave me sound advice and we set up a follow-up. I can say that I am very happy with the value they provided me in this session and highly recommend them.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Mharco juliano
17 Aug, 2024 by B r iana fortson
So after 4 months of thinking my case involving a infestation of mice & rats(caught 15)was being worked on, I found out that my case was terminated almost immediately after accepting my case because I answered no to one of the criminal background questions that mentioned having any recent criminal activities etc which is true, over 6 years plus is not recent so I guess they don’t trust to represent us because of that I feel it’s discrimination because what does having a criminal record have to do with us needing the help?! It shouldn’t have even taking me reaching out to find this out. Very unprofessional for a law firm & they don’t have your best interest obviously.. like how you can’t sympathize with a family that obviously needs representation & justice from & very inhabitable situation if that’s your job?!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Goodarz filsouf
I had a quick session with Julie Hartlé , first of all, she is an amazing person, very understanding, and also very professional and well-informed about the issues we were having. She has an extensive background with different housing departments and also knows disability law very well. She gave me sound advice and we set up a follow-up. I can say that I am very happy with the value they provided me in this session and highly recommend them.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Mharco juliano
17 Aug, 2024 by B r iana fortson
So after 4 months of thinking my case involving a infestation of mice & rats(caught 15)was being worked on, I found out that my case was terminated almost immediately after accepting my case because I answered no to one of the criminal background questions that mentioned having any recent criminal activities etc which is true, over 6 years plus is not recent so I guess they don’t trust to represent us because of that I feel it’s discrimination because what does having a criminal record have to do with us needing the help?! It shouldn’t have even taking me reaching out to find this out. Very unprofessional for a law firm & they don’t have your best interest obviously.. like how you can’t sympathize with a family that obviously needs representation & justice from & very inhabitable situation if that’s your job?!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Goodarz filsouf
I had a quick session with Julie Hartlé , first of all, she is an amazing person, very understanding, and also very professional and well-informed about the issues we were having. She has an extensive background with different housing departments and also knows disability law very well. She gave me sound advice and we set up a follow-up. I can say that I am very happy with the value they provided me in this session and highly recommend them.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Mharco juliano
17 Aug, 2024 by B r iana fortson
So after 4 months of thinking my case involving a infestation of mice & rats(caught 15)was being worked on, I found out that my case was terminated almost immediately after accepting my case because I answered no to one of the criminal background questions that mentioned having any recent criminal activities etc which is true, over 6 years plus is not recent so I guess they don’t trust to represent us because of that I feel it’s discrimination because what does having a criminal record have to do with us needing the help?! It shouldn’t have even taking me reaching out to find this out. Very unprofessional for a law firm & they don’t have your best interest obviously.. like how you can’t sympathize with a family that obviously needs representation & justice from & very inhabitable situation if that’s your job?!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Goodarz filsouf
I had a quick session with Julie Hartlé , first of all, she is an amazing person, very understanding, and also very professional and well-informed about the issues we were having. She has an extensive background with different housing departments and also knows disability law very well. She gave me sound advice and we set up a follow-up. I can say that I am very happy with the value they provided me in this session and highly recommend them.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Mharco juliano
17 Aug, 2024 by B r iana fortson
So after 4 months of thinking my case involving a infestation of mice & rats(caught 15)was being worked on, I found out that my case was terminated almost immediately after accepting my case because I answered no to one of the criminal background questions that mentioned having any recent criminal activities etc which is true, over 6 years plus is not recent so I guess they don’t trust to represent us because of that I feel it’s discrimination because what does having a criminal record have to do with us needing the help?! It shouldn’t have even taking me reaching out to find this out. Very unprofessional for a law firm & they don’t have your best interest obviously.. like how you can’t sympathize with a family that obviously needs representation & justice from & very inhabitable situation if that’s your job?!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Goodarz filsouf
I had a quick session with Julie Hartlé , first of all, she is an amazing person, very understanding, and also very professional and well-informed about the issues we were having. She has an extensive background with different housing departments and also knows disability law very well. She gave me sound advice and we set up a follow-up. I can say that I am very happy with the value they provided me in this session and highly recommend them.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Mharco juliano
17 Aug, 2024 by B r iana fortson
So after 4 months of thinking my case involving a infestation of mice & rats(caught 15)was being worked on, I found out that my case was terminated almost immediately after accepting my case because I answered no to one of the criminal background questions that mentioned having any recent criminal activities etc which is true, over 6 years plus is not recent so I guess they don’t trust to represent us because of that I feel it’s discrimination because what does having a criminal record have to do with us needing the help?! It shouldn’t have even taking me reaching out to find this out. Very unprofessional for a law firm & they don’t have your best interest obviously.. like how you can’t sympathize with a family that obviously needs representation & justice from & very inhabitable situation if that’s your job?!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Goodarz filsouf
I had a quick session with Julie Hartlé , first of all, she is an amazing person, very understanding, and also very professional and well-informed about the issues we were having. She has an extensive background with different housing departments and also knows disability law very well. She gave me sound advice and we set up a follow-up. I can say that I am very happy with the value they provided me in this session and highly recommend them.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Mharco juliano
17 Aug, 2024 by B r iana fortson
So after 4 months of thinking my case involving a infestation of mice & rats(caught 15)was being worked on, I found out that my case was terminated almost immediately after accepting my case because I answered no to one of the criminal background questions that mentioned having any recent criminal activities etc which is true, over 6 years plus is not recent so I guess they don’t trust to represent us because of that I feel it’s discrimination because what does having a criminal record have to do with us needing the help?! It shouldn’t have even taking me reaching out to find this out. Very unprofessional for a law firm & they don’t have your best interest obviously.. like how you can’t sympathize with a family that obviously needs representation & justice from & very inhabitable situation if that’s your job?!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Goodarz filsouf
I had a quick session with Julie Hartlé , first of all, she is an amazing person, very understanding, and also very professional and well-informed about the issues we were having. She has an extensive background with different housing departments and also knows disability law very well. She gave me sound advice and we set up a follow-up. I can say that I am very happy with the value they provided me in this session and highly recommend them.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Mharco juliano
17 Aug, 2024 by B r iana fortson
So after 4 months of thinking my case involving a infestation of mice & rats(caught 15)was being worked on, I found out that my case was terminated almost immediately after accepting my case because I answered no to one of the criminal background questions that mentioned having any recent criminal activities etc which is true, over 6 years plus is not recent so I guess they don’t trust to represent us because of that I feel it’s discrimination because what does having a criminal record have to do with us needing the help?! It shouldn’t have even taking me reaching out to find this out. Very unprofessional for a law firm & they don’t have your best interest obviously.. like how you can’t sympathize with a family that obviously needs representation & justice from & very inhabitable situation if that’s your job?!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Goodarz filsouf
I had a quick session with Julie Hartlé , first of all, she is an amazing person, very understanding, and also very professional and well-informed about the issues we were having. She has an extensive background with different housing departments and also knows disability law very well. She gave me sound advice and we set up a follow-up. I can say that I am very happy with the value they provided me in this session and highly recommend them.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Mharco juliano
22 Jan, 2019 by Constantine
I feel like I need to step in and comment post by Anonymous September 25, 2017. By comment content I have a strong feeling I know this case and I'm one of the co-founders of that company.
To the point. we hired Alexander to set-up company and bylaws.
1) We were told - yes we do not have to file 83(b) election at the moment of incorporation, yes we can make decisions later, but it is a generally a good idea to file it now, shortly after issuance of shares. 2) Paying to issued shares - same case. Yes, shares must paid for, although it is not imperative we do it right at the moment of incorporation. 3) 1099 - not sure if it refers to the 1099 tax form. If it is - it's obviously accountant task
4) Option pool creation – discussed with Alexander, but it is something discretionary and should be created depending on the funding round as VCs have different requirements.
On the other side, Alexander made a lot of customization for our bylaws that we asked him.
Bottom line the only mistake was that Alexander didn't back to us and check if we follow-up things. But we asked him about company incorporation, bylaws and filing to Delaware and we got a really good deal for it. To be honest, we didn't ask to check our activities.
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25 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I would like to share my experience on working with Alexander Volchgursky (San Francisco) on registering a startup company.
Initially, it seemed ok – he prepared the papers for us, with asked several questions and signed. Only later, when we were getting the investment, round we faced the consequences of his poor advice and negligence of not doing/recommending us to do several things:
1) On our question: should we apply for 83b elections for issued shares, he responded: “There is a very tiny or no difference in applying or not applying with our cheap current stock prices.” We asked if we can just skip this step, he replied “Yes”. This advice had a dramatic effect on us when we were getting the investment, threatening us with huge personal tax consequences. Later we figured out that 99% of startups apply of 83b, It's very weird that he did not know that, he should have said to us: “Don't even think not to apply, there is no reason not to do that”. It took us lots of money and effort to rectify those bad decision outcomes.
2) Did not instruct us to pay for the issued shares.
3) Didn't instruct us to make 1099 for all founders.
4) Didn't make (or advise us to make) a stock plan to address the stock option pool creation
To sum up: Definitely, would not recommend this lawyer to anyone.
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26 Oct, 2013 by Dmitriy
Very competent lawyer. He is my lawyer in corporate business and connected activities, my second lawyer in CA and 6th during business life.
Requires a minimum time for developing a solution, that saves my Time, Time, Time again and money. The main thing is that he very client focused, like he solving his own issues, and for sure, very competent in what he is doing. This helps me feel very confident in success.
I highly recommend Alex for any person who runs business.
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24 Apr, 2022 by Darren white
05 Apr, 2022 by Roxana orellana
18 Mar, 2021 by Missy bkillingit
24 Apr, 2022 by Darren white
05 Apr, 2022 by Roxana orellana
18 Mar, 2021 by Missy bkillingit
24 Apr, 2022 by Darren white
05 Apr, 2022 by Roxana orellana
18 Mar, 2021 by Missy bkillingit
5.0
8 Reviews
3.7
38 Reviews
06 Aug, 2024 by Sheel mohnot
11 May, 2024 by Junyi shan
I contacted Dhillon Law Group about a defamation case that I would like to pursue in February 2024. Now three months have passed, and I never heard back from them.
Read more
24 Mar, 2024 by Christopher bout
I would like to express sincere and heartfelt gratitude for the work of Jesse Franklin-Murdock and the Center for American Liberty's extraordinary support in my case. From the outset, when I had that initial call with Eric Sell, and with Josh Dixon – they immediately pulled in strong resources and subsequently Mr. Franklin-Murdock. All these actions and the associated conversations demonstrated dedication, professionalism, superior competency, knowledge, and application of relevant case law by everyone who touched my case but most of all you, Jesse, so thank you! You yourself Jesse, went well above expectation by fielding calls and executing on some key action items, even while on international vacation.
Jesse, to you and the entire Center for American Liberty and the entire Dhillon Law Group – THANK YOU for defending my rights with vigor, professionalism, superior application of law, a successful outcome, and for the intangibles like diligence, listening, empathy and that unique feeling that I, as a client, actually matter. Ten thousand kudos to you!
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Dustin ball
28 Aug, 2024 by Tommy bailey
15 Aug, 2024 by Ninad ghody
Bunch of shady ambulance chasers
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30 Aug, 2024 by Dustin ball
28 Aug, 2024 by Tommy bailey
15 Aug, 2024 by Ninad ghody
Bunch of shady ambulance chasers
Read more
17 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I've been a client to many different attorneys over the years dealing with a sundry of corporate legal needs. I felt compelled to write something about Nitoj because he has stood out as a real upstanding, experienced, ethical professional. He is strategically minded, very level-headed, professional and has high integrity. I worked with him over 3 years and would recommend him highly for business litigation.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Sheel mohnot
11 May, 2024 by Junyi shan
I contacted Dhillon Law Group about a defamation case that I would like to pursue in February 2024. Now three months have passed, and I never heard back from them.
Read more
22 Apr, 2015 by Kyla
He is excellent immigration lawyer, he had very success handle my extreme difficult case and now I am green card holder, thank again to Mr. Zachary Nightingale.
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06 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I've hired Zach to write an opinion letter to the judge about the immigration consequences of a potential criminal conviction. He worked closely with my criminal defense attorney and I was impressed by his knowledge on the subject. In the process of drafting the letter, Zach was very open about discussing the content with me. In the end, his opinion letter served to influence the decision given by the court.
One of the best aspects of working with Zach is that he is very responsive and eager to give advice to the client. He is very quick to responding to my emails and doesn't hesitate offering his advice, even on subjects he was not paid to give advice on. He is also very up-to-date on the latest rulings in the 9th circuit.
If you are looking for an immigration attorney in the Bay area about immigration consequences of criminal cases, I think Zach Nightingale is your best option.
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16 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Zach has revealed himself as a very knowledgeable attorney who has looked into all details of my situation and provided a fair evaluation. However, it turned out to be a much more expensive than average first consultation. Further, following it, he wasn’t even responding to a simple (yes/no) question. When I approached him one year later suggesting to hire him for urgently needed help, he didn’t confirm or reject his availability, but rather suggested yet another expensive consultation. I hired another attorney who looked into my situation based on my email and additional provided documents, asked a few questions and suggested his price, which I gladly paid, and was happy when issue was resolved.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Sheel mohnot
11 May, 2024 by Junyi shan
I contacted Dhillon Law Group about a defamation case that I would like to pursue in February 2024. Now three months have passed, and I never heard back from them.
Read more
24 Mar, 2024 by Christopher bout
I would like to express sincere and heartfelt gratitude for the work of Jesse Franklin-Murdock and the Center for American Liberty's extraordinary support in my case. From the outset, when I had that initial call with Eric Sell, and with Josh Dixon – they immediately pulled in strong resources and subsequently Mr. Franklin-Murdock. All these actions and the associated conversations demonstrated dedication, professionalism, superior competency, knowledge, and application of relevant case law by everyone who touched my case but most of all you, Jesse, so thank you! You yourself Jesse, went well above expectation by fielding calls and executing on some key action items, even while on international vacation.
Jesse, to you and the entire Center for American Liberty and the entire Dhillon Law Group – THANK YOU for defending my rights with vigor, professionalism, superior application of law, a successful outcome, and for the intangibles like diligence, listening, empathy and that unique feeling that I, as a client, actually matter. Ten thousand kudos to you!
Read more
12 Feb, 2023 by Oleg potapenko
It is a splendid majestic royal castle, one of those gigantic architectural masterpieces of previous civilizations that have come as a gift to the current civilization of the dwarves (in every sense of the word).
Read more
25 Aug, 2021 by Jose villasenor
The laws they made up are harming businesses.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Chris walker
one of the best city attorneys in the country imo and believe me I would know because I am the law
Read more
12 Feb, 2023 by Oleg potapenko
It is a splendid majestic royal castle, one of those gigantic architectural masterpieces of previous civilizations that have come as a gift to the current civilization of the dwarves (in every sense of the word).
Read more
25 Aug, 2021 by Jose villasenor
The laws they made up are harming businesses.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Chris walker
one of the best city attorneys in the country imo and believe me I would know because I am the law
Read more
12 Feb, 2023 by Oleg potapenko
It is a splendid majestic royal castle, one of those gigantic architectural masterpieces of previous civilizations that have come as a gift to the current civilization of the dwarves (in every sense of the word).
Read more
25 Aug, 2021 by Jose villasenor
The laws they made up are harming businesses.
Read more
31 Dec, 2017 by Chris walker
one of the best city attorneys in the country imo and believe me I would know because I am the law
Read more
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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.
