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06 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Although I did not hire Mr. Duncan because he is not nearby, he answered my question quickly and succinctly.
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27 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Guess, like the rest of 99% of lawyer's. In the end, it's the judges' re-election contributions that count rather than legal skills!
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15 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Mills answered all my questions. He and Leigh Ann really helped me get through a tough issue. I could tell that they have been doing this for a long time and I felt comfortable knowing that they were handling my case.
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16 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I would avoid this lawyer at all costs. He lacks much professionalism, and takes your money for work not fully rendered. Low quality work ethics. Whatever he sustains on his website, is completely the opposite.
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03 Nov, 2020 by Lindsey
I was referred to Harold by a family friend, and I couldn't be happier. He took the time to listen to my case, answered all my questions and truly treated me like a friend not a client. His knowledge of medical malpractice is priceless he actually successfully won, one of the first medical malpractice cases in Greenville County.
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29 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Poor service, incompetent, dishonest, and doesn't stick to deadlines. Not worth the hassle.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Takeyaj inc
I was looking for someone to handle a very sensitive matter, was disappointed no one ever called me back after leaving a detailed message. Very disappointing
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21 Aug, 2013 by Jim
Hired Shannon after divorce and poor service and results from prior attorney. She handled several issues related to first divorce, and was pleased with the process and results. 9 years later handled second divorce and was complete start to finish in under 90 days. Still use her as issues arise. Professional and great to work with, additionally her staff has always been positive and responsive.
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24 Sep, 2018 by Sean
He worked through the process with me (as I was not using a Realtor), and handled the closing. There were many problems with the lending bank and Jeff helped me handle them to my satisfaction...
I am using him again in 2018 for two more closings.
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22 Jun, 2017 by Billy
Never prepared for court, always an excuse for not returning calls. Had to explain my case repeatedly.
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11 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Initially, Mr Connor seemed to be the right person for the job. We agreed to several aspects of how we were going to proceed. In the end Mr. Connor reneged on his initial promises and guarantees. I signed his agreement not agreeing to the terms because he assured me it was standard and he would make the necessary adjustments when we had a final outcome, if needed. Not only did Mr. Connor failed to keep his promises, he did not actively represent my best interests in this case.
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08 Aug, 2013 by John
I had purchased a car several years ago, and it wasn't long after doing so that I realized that I had been swindled. I contacted Mr. Connor, and within days I was released from the contract.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
This lawyer is terrible. He will not call you back, or complete the job hired for. He will gladly take your money. It’s about money for his 1000 children.
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28 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I have been represented by Shawn French for over 4 years on a wrongful foreclosure brought by a bank not even associated with my home loan. I am a victim of the dreaded robo-signed documents. Mr. French is extremely knowledgeable, very personable and I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of foreclosure defense. So far, my case has been stalled in the court system for over 4 years. I am well defended and well protected by this attorney. In addition to my foreclosure defense, Mr. French has also helped me with successfully defending against collection agency efforts. I cannot recommend him more. He deserves 10 stars!
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22 May, 2018 by Anonymous
My almost simple divorce case took almost a year. In almost every communication of a legal nature from his office there were typos, incorrect addresses and other errors which delayed things profusely. I don't know who is working in the office with him but they were messing up addresses and all other things on the documents and it was a constant battle to proofread and make sure everything was in order. In addition he had me pay 15 hours {over $2500> up front for what he described as a simple divorce "that you could almost just file yourself". He said it should be pretty much cut and dry and the only reason that it would be great to have a lawyer is to make sure that everything was filed properly with the clerk, and so forth. That being said it took almost a full year from the day I hired him to actually get this to court and get the divorce finalized even though the separation requirements for the state were fulfilled. Slow to respond and usually only by email unless it was no chick matter for him. He also said that at the end if it was as easy as he thought it would be that there would probably be some hours left over and those will be refunded to me but of course miraculously, and true lawyer fashion it was exactly the amount of hours that I paid for upfront. The only reason those extra hours would have even been spent will because of their mistakes anyway.
Three stars for the outcome because of his knowledge, professionalism and experience, and it did get done the way I wanted it to turn out. I'd give it one star for overall value and the time it took was horrible
Only recommend upfront if you understand it will take a while watch your paperwork and it's not going to be cheap. And don't expect a refund no matter what they tell you which I kind of knew but I was hoping for better
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23 Dec, 2018 by Keith johnson
Good
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10 Jun, 2024 by Dl b
I had the unfortunate displeasure of dealing with this unsavory law office and specifically with Ryan McCabe. My issue was in connection with an HOA financial matter. McCabe was totally unpleasant and treated me like I was so far beneath him. I'm not surprised because in my opinion they are bottom feeder attorneys as the legal representation for local HOA's. I wouldn't give you a plug nickel for any of them. I'm sure they will respond with a disclaimer that they have no idea who I am, so they can deflect the truth. Anyone that's dealt with them knows exactly what I'm talking about. I don't recommend doing business here.
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20 May, 2024 by Ms. brick
I have been trying to contact this firm for a week now regarding my HOA dues. I was unaware my auto payment didn’t not go through. I was as well dealing with a very close loss and was in a hospice house for three months. I have called left messages and messages on their website, I also called the HOA company and they are saying they can’t call this Law Office to find out the disconnect or get someone. I’m very confused, disappointed and frustrated with this situation!!
I have been sent to your office via HOA.
I have tried to contact your office regarding so responding to say I am not a client shows how much research you’re willing to do. Response in 48hr is a joke I’ve left 3 messages and a reply on the contact us web part of your website.
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06 Mar, 2024 by C2u l8r
This company will not return phone calls or email correspondence. I do not recommend this company to work with. My attorney WILL be contacting them for a response.
(If I could have scored less than 1 Star, I would!)
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25 Mar, 2022 by H em
Attorney Johnson is thorough & professional. I highly recommend him. Also, I appreciate Becky as well!
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05 Sep, 2020 by Allyson herndon
Very Helpful with What I needed to get Fixed. Got Everything Done in a Timely Manner. Very Nice, Helpful and Friendly Staff.
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20 Aug, 2019 by Betty blanton
28 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
If you want your case to stay months untouched, emails go months without responses, lots of promises that your case will be worked on and you’ll get draft by the end of the week, then 4 months later nothing gets achieved and you get an email saying I can’t work on your case hire this attorney. Stay away!
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06 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney Kuykendall was able to ‘arm’ me with answers to probable questions. He also guided me on what to research to provide receipts for Amazon and VA medical shipments.
I was able to go to court Pro Se confident that I could get the case dismissed. I won’t know for a week if I succeeded. But, I got my day in court and defeated the opposing attorneys case. He was stunned.
No attorney that I could have hired to go to court for me would have had my 20 years of knowledge about the case.
Excellent advice. I highly recommend his services!
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21 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I could not disagree more with the several reviews on this site. I was referred to Jeffrey, and found his assistance invaluable. He has a strong understanding of the law in his practice areas, and is skilled in interpreting it for clients, to their best interests. His commitment to a just outcome is apparent, and his work to that end is admirable. I recommend him without hesitation -- he has a heart for law, and it is apparent.
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23 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
He and his very unprofessional assistant were awful. The office was dark and dank and the entire place unorganized. He seemed disinterested in my case altogether. I don’t know if he is still practicing, but my best advice is find anyone else if you want quality representation!
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18 Jul, 2015 by Jennifer
This lawyer went above and beyond to help me. I was charged with breach of trust and was guilty as charged. Mr. Sample worked out a deal to clear my record. I would never be able to get another job if not for his help. I see some bad reviews here, but I find it hard to believe they are real. I guess anybody can post a bunch of vindictive BS here with no consequences. Maybe the posts are from people that were on the other side of Mr. Sample and lost their cases.
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10 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I had a very enjoyable experience with this attorney and his firm. I used his firm for a divorce/custody action. He and his paralegal walked with me hand in hand to keep me calm and informed of what all was going on and how to handle all situations.
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02 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
My experience with Adam Owensby and Seibert Law Firm was far from favorable, lacking the "quality client representation" they claim to provide. During my initial $275 meeting with Adam, he took only about five sentences of notes and advised me to write a letter to the other party as his sole suggestion. Later, when I learned the other party was taking me to court, Adam sent a $3,000 payment request—without a retainer agreement or any explanation for the discrepancy from the verbal quote he had given during our meeting.
I emailed Adam to inquire about the retainer agreement and the price difference, but after a week with no response, I called Seibert Law Firm, specifically asking to speak with Kevin or Rebecca Seibert to clarify if this was standard practice. Instead, Adam returned my call, claiming he hadn’t received my email and offering excuses. I again requested to speak directly with Kevin or Rebecca and ended the call. Adam then called back, saying Kevin was available. After I explained my experience in detail, Kevin also made excuses for Adam’s behavior.
Despite the website stating, "call for a free consultation," my initial meeting cost $275, and the only advice provided was to write a letter to the other party. It seems Seibert Law Firm’s standard practice includes sending payment requests without any contract, retainer agreement, or clear explanation. Additionally, I was repeatedly told that I "live in a red state" and was once told I "rub people the wrong way" for standing up for my rights—comments that felt irrelevant and unprofessional.
Bottom line: It felt as though Adam Owensby’s focus was more on collecting fees than on providing genuine quality representation.
My recommendation: Proceed with caution if you’re considering Adam Owensby or Seibert Law Firm. If you’re looking for an attorney genuinely invested in your case, I’d strongly recommend looking elsewhere.
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04 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired through Lemon Law Group in 2021, was passed around from paralegal to paralegal at least 5 or 6 times. No one ever wanted to contact me back and nothing seemed to be getting done. Recently I was made aware that not only is there another paralegal but a different attorney also. I was also made aware today that this lawyer dropped the ball and really screwed me over and cost me a lot of money because I was told the defendant in the case submitted a request for dismissal back in May of 2023 and it was granted so obviously this man never showed up for court or did anything on my case, now I have paid into a lemon vehicle for a couple more years all because of this man's negligence. I am so upset that I have been drug around for all this time for nothing. This car is now worth less than I owe on it so I am completely screwed. Thanks alot.
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09 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Adam fought for my children as if they were his own. He is knowledgeable, reasonable, and comforting. Choose this law firm for a trustworthy family lawyer.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Baghdady is unprofessional and a coward. He’ll waste your time and schedule an appointment and then doesn’t show up. Why not just say you can’t or don’t want to take the case?
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01 Jan, 2010 by Christieprkns
we have used Rolf Baghdady four times and he has ALWAYS done an outstanding job.
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05 Dec, 2009 by Ellen
Mr Baghdady charges for the stupidest items. Items that He should already have knowledge of. What attorney charges to think of a question or situtation from his client. Or he states that he knows busines law and real estate and charges 15000 to research. Better yet what out for the other side offering a settlement and he doesnt tell you about. He is not worth what he charges and needs to go back to law school.
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13 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
She went speechless in our hearing and let the defense walk all over us and her. Ultimately leaving us trampled and falsely accused in front of a court full of family and friends.
She stood there, flipping through paperwork, shaking, not knowing the answers to the judges questions which she had in front of her.
After paying her a 5 digit retainer "the Butcher" just gave up and convince my husband to give in to the defendants demands and settle. She would only go to trial and continue to help us fight for custody if we paid her another 5 digit + retainer. She was timid, easily intimidated and unprepared. Not worth the money! Do not recommend for complicated custody cases!
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05 Jun, 2014 by Dani
My husband and I used Janet, in a custody battle. Janet was like a pit bull. She never backed down. She kept us informed every step of the way, and always kept our daughter's, (my step-daughter) best interest at heart. She was up against a very unsavory laywer, who often lied to his own client, for his own best interest. It's usually very hard for a father to gain custody instead of the mother, without serious cause against the mother, but we won our case. We gained custody of my husband's daughter. She has now graduated high school, and will be off to college in the fall.
I have also reccomended Janet Butcher to other friends, who need a feisty pit bull on their case.
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08 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Janet failed on every level. I hired her to represent me and instead it felt like she was working on behalf of the other attorney. She did not keep me informed nor did she explain why she chose to go against everything we agreed to do. She prefers to make you settle out of court even if all the terms are not in your favor. Be careful to take any advice from her and do not trust her! She currently has a lawsuit pending against her.
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25 Sep, 2014 by Schirl
This Attorney handled my Divorce and it was the WORST experience of my life!!! He turned a simple divorce into a 2 year process… I had to constantly call him "which there is never an answer" I could only communicate with him through email and it usually took him weeks to reply. I saw him twice in the 2 years that it took to get my divorce finalized. He was very unprepared in court.. thank God that I had a Judge that was looking out for my best interest!!! Please stay away from Thomas Eppink!!! This is not personal, I just don't want anyone to go through what I went thorough with him. I trusted that mr Eppink would do his job and he did not. I had to speak with another Attorney to complete the necessary paperwork to enforce the Judges order. I never received my divorce papers from thomas eppink. When I tried calling him and emailing him about my divorce documents he never replied until months later, and by that time I had gone and picked them up myself. He mailed me a notorized copy of my "Financial Declaration" stating that it was my divorce papers. "How sad is that"!!! Please don't allow this man to ruin your life. He can make you believe that he is a confident attorney. Once he gets your MONEY.. you will not hear from him!! I feel its my duty to try and prevent someone else from going through what I went through..
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07 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I hated I needed an attorney, but having Mr. Eppink on my side and didn't nickel and dime me to death! Service was quick and efficient
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01 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Was retained the beginning of weekend, and discharged the ending of the weekend. But was charged as if work was actually performed. Also did not get back all of the retainer, nor the alleged work that was supposed to have been done on the case. Was told that he did work over the week-end and that's why I was billed. Was told he would ask for a continuance. but never contacted other attorney. So actually no work was ever done on the case, he just keep the money. And the Good ole boy system is letting him get away with it. Was retained on a weekend in the late evening, and services were terminated two days later the following work morning. If he asked for a continuance the other attorney did not know anything about it. The alleged work was not returned to the client. I was charged for the work, then the billable hours/work becomes the property of the client. No work was really done on my behalf, he just kept the money.
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01 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
At first, I was impressed with this attorney. But it wasn’t until tasks were left undone that issues occurred. He took my case, but failed to complete matters agreed on without asking for more money. There was an agreement and it wasn’t fulfilled. Hopefully others don’t have similar experiences.
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08 Feb, 2022 by Brenda
We are trying to settle a lawsuit for Trisha Ashley. It’s been almost 3 years. She had lost her car and could lose her home if this lawsuit is not settled. What does it take to settle a claim for someone who has lost their car, could lose their home any day and cannot work for a living anymore because of this horrific accident? Please help!!
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11 Apr, 2021 by David
On a positive note, he is very good at listening and accurately responding to a complaint. Judges seem to hold him in reverence. It goes downhill from there. He's not proactive. His tactic is to delay, delay, delay, and put everything off to the last minute. If he screws up, he begs the court for forgiveness. It cost me money when he failed to review the order submitted by the plaintiff's lawyer. He assumed he knew what was in it. The lawyer made stuff up and left me liable for something that was never even brought up. Since he didn't read, it nearly left me in contempt of court. Much to the opposing lawyer's chagrin, he told the court he never received the order, which wasn't true. He also created a conflict of interest that ended up costing me money.
Another party to the suit asked him to handle another manner. He charged $1,500 to send a letter. He never did. Truthfully, I can't imagine a worse lawyer.
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29 Sep, 2014 by Kay soldo
His receptionists was not very helpful. Never got a call back. Mr. S. Jahue Moore never said if he was the Junior or the Senior on any of my paperwork. Each time I called, I was asked if it was Jr. or Sr. and when I stated the document said neither, the secretary / receptionist seemed to become incoherant and confused.
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10 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Worst attorney I've ever been around in my entire life. Totally unprofessional - his office is an absolute mess, unprofessional in every way. Literally papers and folders scattered all over the floor that it's not a wonder that he could never remember any of our case details when we would speak with him. I felt like he couldn't care any less about us. He returns phone calls with emails and letters (who mails letters these days for important, time sensitive information? - LOL). No one ever answers the office phone during business hours. Most importantly, he gave us completely false and inaccurate advice that cost us thousands and thousands of dollars.
This is a file, pay and move on type of bankruptcy attorney. These guys are fine if you don't have anything special going on. But if you need ANY other type of assistance other than run-of-the-mill chapter 7/13 filing, before, during, or after your case, then do NOT use this attorney. He seemed completely disinterested as soon as he was paid - my opinion.
Seriously, if any of the above sounds like something you want to trust your financial future with, then perhaps Mr. Matthews is your guy. Otherwise steer very, very clear. In summary, he fit every imaginable terrible stereotype of every bankruptcy attorney, ever.
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25 Aug, 2011 by Mike
this lawyer is in it for the money.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Very unprofessional. She called me back after receiving my voice message, although I left detailed information who I was and why I called in my message also she responded to my profile on LegalMatch as I was looking for an attorney, she was extremely rude, hung up on me after shouting questions at me, when I said my kids are not minors and not disabled she rudely hung up on me. I texted her back calling her unprofessional and she responded with "F... off!..."
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16 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Very unprofessional. She called me back after receiving my voice message, although I left detailed information who I was and why I called in my message also she responded to my profile on LegalMatch as I was looking for an attorney, she was extremely rude, hung up on me after shouting questions at me, when I said my kids are not minors and not disabled she rudely hung up on me. I texted her back calling her unprofessional and she responded with "F... off!..."
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29 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
She was hired without reference for a basic will. Her communication was terse and sparse. She was even unfriendly- to paying clients. Her emails barely had a signature, more like texting. No bedside manner whatsoever, no timeline, even nasty about a typo. Do not use her.
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14 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
She does not know what she is doing. Worst lawyer ever!! No wonder she is a public defender.
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29 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. McNeill utterly failed to adequately represent my son in a simple possession case in Laurens County. She met with him twice for about 5 minutes each visit, and once was about 5 minutes before his bond hearing. During the bond hearing, it was apparent that she did not know the law, nor did she have adequate working knowledge of bond hearing procedures.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
This lawyer caused unnecessary antagonism between myself and the party I was negotiating with.
She intentionally was hostile in her communications thus created a breakdown in our negotiations and prolonged the entire situation. This cost me more in attorney fees than I received in my payouts! Her actions were not professional nor were they helpful in my situations. I would never recommend her to any one. She was spiteful and out to run up her fees.
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04 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I made the mistake of using Mr Miller to update some documents for me. Mr. Miller indicated that he did not do project pricing and I made the mistake of assuming he would be judicious his time. What has previously cost less then $1,000 Mr. Miller attempted to charge me over $5,000 to update a few sections of a policy manual. Mr. Miller then attempted to place a copyright on material sourced from my original document. I would encourage anyone considering Mr. Miller
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08 Aug, 2017 by Corie b
Rude and uncaring individual over the PTI Program.
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30 Jun, 2018 by Gloria
Mr. Parker failed to represent me. He only talked to me 14 times in 2 years. He didn't care to find out who I was or even call to ask how I was doing. He just wanted to settle from day one. I asked him to fight to get my knee taken care of and he just said he didn't think they would cover it. It was reported the day it happened but because a Dr. Didnt do an mri it just showed not broken. A couple months later went to another Dr. Because of severe pain . MRI showed torn meniscus and bone splinter. He told me not to worry about paying the bills, he said my insurance should cover them not workers comp but I told my insurance it was due to injury at work. Now I owe them close to 10,000.00. I have refinanced my home in order to survive. I haven't been able to do much work because of extensive injury to elbow,wrist, and knee. I lost the case because he really didn't try to work the case and keep informed. Be careful and check the attorney out. Just because I had a good attorney 14 years ago with a similar case doesnt mean you will get a good one again. My fault trusting him.
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14 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Paid this man 4,500 for nothing it was a child support case nothing hard and he got me nothing!!!! Dont waste you money on him
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23 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Cam hasn’t delivered what we paid him for, even after 1-year. Hot tempered and “fired” us when we asked for an update. Extremely unprofessional.
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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:
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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.
