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26 Aug, 2020 by Harold brown
We had the pleasure of working with Daniel Etinger. He was very professional , “ down to earth “, kind and completely honest. He did a lot of research and background checking for us. Several emails, phone calls and a face to face meeting, (that he offered to us as a virtual mtg to save us the trip). At the conclusion HE felt it wouldn’t be “ beneficial “ for us to retain him. (We were a creditor). He said the decision was ours. We took his advice. He DID NOT charge us ANY fee for all his effort. Our experience was WONDERFUL. We would highly recommend Dan and his law firm.
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16 Feb, 2020 by I p
12 Feb, 2020 by Reverend alexander
16 Sep, 2024 by John hornyak
I spoke with a Woman there, who was supposed to be a paralegal. I was told I probably had a case for my inquiry...and was connected with a 'Finance' Guy..who said it would be $5000 for a retainer, which was translated by 20 hours @$250/hr. I was doing research online about them, and found many complaints about the wording of the retainer...which seemed to be whether they spent 15 minutes resolving ones issue or 20 hours, the $5000 retainer becomes theirs. I told the 'Finance' Guy it was too much and said I was not interested in hiring them and hung up.
I received a Invoice from them for $37.86. I complained to the BBB.org. who sent them a request for comment. They responded saying if I downloaded some document and signed and returned it..then they would be satisfied. I rejected that response, since I did not hire them or enter any agreement with them, so I could just imagine what downloading or signing anything would or could lead to.
This Organization is SHADY to say the least. I thought I crossed the T's and dotted the I's by not engaging with these people. I suppose the $37.86 is to rake in money by assuming people will just send them the small amount to make them go away. I just received a follow-up from "Ironclad Law LLC" threatening to report to the Credit Agencies that I am delinquent with my payment.
I have also contacted the Florida State Attorney Generals Office, and they will be watching how this plays out...I was told if they did get information from the dark web for nefarious purposes, they will prosecute. I was given the Florida Bar Association contact information for further action if this persists.
Watch out!!! These people are Con Artists that will try to extract money from unsuspecting consumers...Beware. Forewarned is best prepared.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Bryans beachtv
All the last months review are nothing but accurate. They will chase you down to receive your money and once you pay they won’t contact you at all. All you can do is schedule a meeting with a front desk person and vent your problems. She’ll let you know that she’s going to let them know so they can contact you and then you’ll repeat the process again. I wish I would have read the reviews before paying them.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Pamela nolen
I am very pleased with Micheal hargus Hand down the best attorney ever he fought with his heart and soul and I now have my grandaughter out of a bad situation. I would suggest him anytime !!! Great lawyer thank you to him and the firm
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10 Mar, 2022 by Shervin
Shant is absolutely amazing, kind, and caring. He fought hard on my case to get the best outcome. He stayed in contact with me through the whole process, he made sure I understood what was going on with my case at all times. He definitely knows what he is doing and will do what it takes to get the job done with the best outcome possible. I would highly recommend Shant.
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17 Feb, 2022 by Jacob
Mr. Melkonian is a consummate professional in every sense of the word, and genuinely cares about his clients. Over the last year handling my case, he’s gone above and beyond to make himself available, answer all questions thoroughly and offer guidance in every step of the process of navigating my claim.
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10 Feb, 2022 by Dennis
Very down to earth yet so thorough and caring. I was dealing with an attorney previous to shan't who was not communicating nor keeping a pace and when shan't got started with me it was like night and day. I cannot express the relief I had from the first conversation with shant. Will definitely be using I'm the future if needes.
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16 Sep, 2024 by John hornyak
I spoke with a Woman there, who was supposed to be a paralegal. I was told I probably had a case for my inquiry...and was connected with a 'Finance' Guy..who said it would be $5000 for a retainer, which was translated by 20 hours @$250/hr. I was doing research online about them, and found many complaints about the wording of the retainer...which seemed to be whether they spent 15 minutes resolving ones issue or 20 hours, the $5000 retainer becomes theirs. I told the 'Finance' Guy it was too much and said I was not interested in hiring them and hung up.
I received a Invoice from them for $37.86. I complained to the BBB.org. who sent them a request for comment. They responded saying if I downloaded some document and signed and returned it..then they would be satisfied. I rejected that response, since I did not hire them or enter any agreement with them, so I could just imagine what downloading or signing anything would or could lead to.
This Organization is SHADY to say the least. I thought I crossed the T's and dotted the I's by not engaging with these people. I suppose the $37.86 is to rake in money by assuming people will just send them the small amount to make them go away. I just received a follow-up from "Ironclad Law LLC" threatening to report to the Credit Agencies that I am delinquent with my payment.
I have also contacted the Florida State Attorney Generals Office, and they will be watching how this plays out...I was told if they did get information from the dark web for nefarious purposes, they will prosecute. I was given the Florida Bar Association contact information for further action if this persists.
Watch out!!! These people are Con Artists that will try to extract money from unsuspecting consumers...Beware. Forewarned is best prepared.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Bryans beachtv
All the last months review are nothing but accurate. They will chase you down to receive your money and once you pay they won’t contact you at all. All you can do is schedule a meeting with a front desk person and vent your problems. She’ll let you know that she’s going to let them know so they can contact you and then you’ll repeat the process again. I wish I would have read the reviews before paying them.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Pamela nolen
I am very pleased with Micheal hargus Hand down the best attorney ever he fought with his heart and soul and I now have my grandaughter out of a bad situation. I would suggest him anytime !!! Great lawyer thank you to him and the firm
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21 Aug, 2024 by James means
Seward Law office provide great insight and answered all my questions and concerns.
I feel confident I will be able to resolve the problems I face without any fear of problems.
I highly encourage anyone to call them.
I had called 10 other attorneys with no response.
Seward called immediately.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Sheyla cornish
After my apartment was broken into, Seward Law Office recovered damages for my losses from my negligent landlord! It was very easy to contact Attorney Seward whenever I had questions. She was patient and kind. I was always updated about any changes in my case, through email/phone. It took time to come to a resolution, but I trusted the process and the wait was worth it. Thank you Seward Law Office!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Sticks & champagne
10 Jan, 2014 by Chris
We own a mobile home subdivision in Bradenton, Florida. In 2009 we hired Matt Taylor to represent us in a law suit involving a resident that had not paid assessments. He was fantastic as a litigator. We won that law suit and hired him again the next year for another similar case, but this one lasted approximately 4 years. During this time, Matt kept us informed of every step of each hearing. He won this suit as well. The judge pulled him aside after one of the hearings and told him she had never heard anyone do such a fantastic job!
We have full confidence in this attorney. If I needed someone to represent me in a murder case it would be Matt Taylor.
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09 Jan, 2014 by Duane
We would have never been able to get through this without Mr. Taylor. When you find yourself in an arena that you don't understand under circumstances you had no control over, facing adversaries with and incredible amount of monetary capacity - you only get one chance to select the right counnsel. Mr. Taylor was that correct choice. As victims of the recession we were able to preserve our assets, credit and dignity with the help of Mr. Taylor. Every detail, consequence and challenge was carefully and completely explained to us during those difficult times. His ability to negotiate and work with opposing counsel is second to none. Had Mr. Taylor not interveened on our behalf we would have lost everything. Knowledge and experience counts. Genuine compassion and respect are a hallmark of Mr. Taylor's. We feel we were very well represented and achieved the best results possible with each case Mr. Taylor has handled for us. We hired an attorney and wound up with a true friend.
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25 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Mishandled, Basic mistakes that cost substantial money for a different lawyer to correct. No support from the firms partners when I informed them of my dissatisfaction.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Amber laws
We’ve been trying to call for months. We’ve been making payments and we cannot get anyone to answer the phone, return calls, or answer messages. We’re starting to think we’ve been scammed. It would be great to be proved wrong.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Jackeline yagual
29 Sep, 2023 by Lisbely alvarado
Agradecimiento infinito por el resultado positivo obtenido en mi proceso, brindado por un excelente Abogado como es el Señor William G. de Mobility Inmigración, gran profesional con muchos años de experiencia, quién tiene una gran calidad humana, me apoyo en todo momento, me brindó confianza y solidaridad, cuidó paso a paso todos los detalles de mi caso. Que Dios lo bendiga por siempre!! Muchas gracias!!
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22 Jan, 2023 by Tiffany noble
29 Dec, 2021 by Lisa garcia
Won't return phone calls.
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06 Jun, 2021 by Rodney lozada
22 Jan, 2023 by Tiffany noble
29 Dec, 2021 by Lisa garcia
Won't return phone calls.
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06 Jun, 2021 by Rodney lozada
22 Jan, 2023 by Tiffany noble
29 Dec, 2021 by Lisa garcia
Won't return phone calls.
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06 Jun, 2021 by Rodney lozada
22 Jan, 2023 by Tiffany noble
29 Dec, 2021 by Lisa garcia
Won't return phone calls.
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06 Jun, 2021 by Rodney lozada
22 Jan, 2023 by Tiffany noble
29 Dec, 2021 by Lisa garcia
Won't return phone calls.
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06 Jun, 2021 by Rodney lozada
22 Jan, 2023 by Tiffany noble
29 Dec, 2021 by Lisa garcia
Won't return phone calls.
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06 Jun, 2021 by Rodney lozada
22 Jan, 2023 by Tiffany noble
29 Dec, 2021 by Lisa garcia
Won't return phone calls.
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06 Jun, 2021 by Rodney lozada
28 Feb, 2024 by Michael bayern
I have known Brian Eves, an attorney with this law firm, as a professional colleague for a number of years. I have known Brian to be a great attorney. He has top notch legal analysis skills and is board certified in construction law. I would not hesitate to recommend Mr. Eves for your legal needs.
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26 Dec, 2023 by Tim neubert
21 Nov, 2019 by Thomas h. yates
08 Mar, 2024 by Rhonda
This office is absolutely here for your money. If you are not in deportation status you are put on the back burner. I cannot tell you how many times I had to call and get the ball rolling because we were forgotten. The communication skills are lacking. If you call and leave a message you expect a call, text or email back within a week. Many times there was NO response and I would have to call and remind them what we were waiting on. Bassey was never at any of our hearings because my husband was not a deportation risk. He would send a substitute. He also never read the file before we had an appointment. He assumed our case was one way, when in fact it was not. Then we would have to remind him what stage of the process we were in. They also wanted to close our case and start over when we were to the final stages of my husband getting his green card, so that they could charge us another retainer fee for a new case. If they know you can pay, they will milk you. They make you come into the office for senseless things. They had my husband take off of work and we met there and had an appointment at 3 and they were late and come to find out I literally just needed to sign ONE LINE on paperwork. They had stated the day before that we were to meet with the attorney and that never happened that day. I could have went by myself and my husband didn't have to take off of work. They make a big deal out of little things. They want you to run and jump thru hoops and then THEY do not follow up. It took us 7 years for my husband to get his green card with them. Granted there was Covid shutdown in the middle but after the courts opened back up they drug their feet to get the case in front of a judge again. I am sure that they take advantage of a very vulnerable population. Their clients are at their mercy and they are fully taking advantage of those people and their situations. Please take your business elsewhere, where the attorneys and staff truly care about helping you get what you need done and not draining funds.
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25 Sep, 2015 by Kwaku
Bassey Immigration Law center was recommended to me by a friend who is a former client of Attorney Bassey. He was so satisfied with the services they provided for him that he assured me i will get the same satisfaction. Bassey immigration law center in my opinion is the best immigration law firm in the United States. They showed me that they were not interested in the money but rather in performing a humanitarian service. They kept me informed at every step of the process, and they have very excellent customer service from the receptionist, to their Paralegals to the Attorney. They are always available to answer all my questions. I had some difficulties with the finances and they were very understandable and flexible. They showed me they were more interested in making sure that my rights were protected than they money they were going to receive from their services. They have the fairest and most moderate of legal fees for the kind of satisfaction they provide from their services. I have friends who have spent over $10,000 dollars in legal fees to other law firms for immigration related purposes and still have not being able to get their immigration related relief/benefits, Bassey Immigration law firm charged me a small fraction of that amount and i have received my immigration benefits with full satisfaction from the process they undertook. Choose Bassey Immigration law firm and i can guarantee you that you that you will be satisfied and you will receive your immigration benefits. They are really humanitarian and will fight for you till you are satisfied and have received your immigration benefits.
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22 Oct, 2014 by Mailin
i receive service from Mr Bassey on 2012,he is a excellent attorney,excellent person.i do recommend him to any body that need immigration services.
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06 Sep, 2011 by Bill
He helped me when others did not. He did a good job.
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17 Nov, 2023 by Ashley tyre
I wish I could give him a zero! I needed someone to help me with a severe case of harassment from a very large company and thought Mr. Howard could help. I called his office over 10 times I actually lost count. At the very least I should have gotten a call back. Take my case not take my case it doesn't matter. Mr. Howard please have the decency to simply return my call. He is the opposite of professional. I've unfortunately needed serval attorneys in my life. I've never experienced anything even close to this!
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11 Jul, 2022 by Shamala moore
Billy and his whole staff is very nice and very attentive when it comes to their response
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07 May, 2022 by Mf loose
17 Nov, 2023 by Ashley tyre
I wish I could give him a zero! I needed someone to help me with a severe case of harassment from a very large company and thought Mr. Howard could help. I called his office over 10 times I actually lost count. At the very least I should have gotten a call back. Take my case not take my case it doesn't matter. Mr. Howard please have the decency to simply return my call. He is the opposite of professional. I've unfortunately needed serval attorneys in my life. I've never experienced anything even close to this!
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11 Jul, 2022 by Shamala moore
Billy and his whole staff is very nice and very attentive when it comes to their response
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07 May, 2022 by Mf loose
13 Nov, 2022 by Kevin kimball
I had Brian Bolves for an Eminent Domain case in Naples. He ignored my emails and kept my funds illegally in his escrow account ..TWICE!! He nor his assistant would reply to my emails even as I told him I would give him a one star review and write a complaint to the Florida Bar. He won't provide the necessary paperwork so i can file taxes so I have to get it from the County Attorney. I forwarded the emails I sent him to his assistant and the ones I sent to the assistant to Brian trying to get some response, No luck! Fortunately the County paid him.
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17 Sep, 2022 by Andrew bolves
14 Jan, 2022 by Richard alonso
Laura Donaldson is the best...She help me so much ..like if she knew me for year's...you need help in real estate law she the best ..
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13 Nov, 2022 by Kevin kimball
I had Brian Bolves for an Eminent Domain case in Naples. He ignored my emails and kept my funds illegally in his escrow account ..TWICE!! He nor his assistant would reply to my emails even as I told him I would give him a one star review and write a complaint to the Florida Bar. He won't provide the necessary paperwork so i can file taxes so I have to get it from the County Attorney. I forwarded the emails I sent him to his assistant and the ones I sent to the assistant to Brian trying to get some response, No luck! Fortunately the County paid him.
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17 Sep, 2022 by Andrew bolves
14 Jan, 2022 by Richard alonso
Laura Donaldson is the best...She help me so much ..like if she knew me for year's...you need help in real estate law she the best ..
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25 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired her and was extremely disappointed. I would definitely not recommend Ms. Bassett. I’m not allow to elaborate, but I would suggest another attorney.
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26 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I've worked with Atty Bassett since 2009 and have always found her to be an exceptional attorney. She is detailed in her research, conducts herself with integrity and professionalism and is always available to go the extra steps to make sure her case is thoroughly prepared.
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19 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Heidi handled our cases efficiently and professionally. She was thorough in her preparation and maintained communication throughout the process. I would strongly recommend her services.
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08 Apr, 2024 by It resources
Chip and Keona do a great job of keeping this firm on top of their game. The attorneys and staff truly care about their clients and I highly recommend them!
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25 Mar, 2024 by Nader maali
30 Nov, 2023 by Chad sagnip
I previously had another law firm handle my roof claim after the insurance company refused to pay and then folded. The company couldn’t resolve the issue which went to FIGA. So a friend referred Merlin group to handle the issue. They were very professional and kept me updated even though, at times, there was no progress to discuss. Through their persistence and constant contact with FIGA, the issue finally got resolved AFTER almost 2 years!! Hopefully this won’t happen again, but if it does, I’ll reach back out to them.
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08 Jul, 2022 by Ryan cruz
We were dealing with a situation where an individual was taking advantage of us and attempting to interfere and hold up the sale of the business property so we retained attorney Samuel Heller and we are glad that we did. He was very aggressive in his representation of us and he got the situation that we needed to be handled taken care of just how se wanted it to be. This attorney is very knowledgeable, strategic, honest, understanding, and his communication with his clients is the BEST that I have ever had. So if you are looking for a VERY good attorney who will be aggressive in representing you then choose this.
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06 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I was being dragged into an old business separation dispute, and things were getting pretty confusing. The day Sam began representing me, he contacted the opposing attorneys, and my phone stopped ringing. From that moment on, Sam handled everything. No stress on my end.
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04 Jan, 2018 by Jeff collet
I have hired Mr Heller for a problem with my insurance. I am a foreigner having a house in Florida. I send him by email all the information including all the documents in connection with my case. He told me that he could do something for me. I send him a retainer fee of USD 1'000.-. At the end he told me that he could do nothing for me. He took my money and never tried to help in order to find a way with the insurance. For months he promised me that he would give me one part of my money back but he never did it. Unfaithful and unprofessional lawyer.
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01 Oct, 2019 by Shannon
Ms. Felicia Barry has failed to return all calls and emails I have sent her. I find that my attempts in contacting her have been imensly exhausting. She was appointed to me to represent me in Family Court, and though I have explained several times to the receptionist at ETA Nemotin and left numerous messages on Ms.Barry's voicemail, she has made no attempt to contact me in response.
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14 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. Barry was excellent representation during a difficult time of need.
She was very professional and dedicated to providing the best service she can.
I gave her my case on very short notice, her fees were very affordable, she has a pleasant and non judgmental attitude.
She prepared very well in my civil Injunction case, and she was able to win at trial.
She is very quick and concise during cross examination, which ultimately won the case.
I am very thankful.
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26 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Castro represented me during my divorce. Because of his sloppiness and unpreparedness, my divorce which was NOT contested still cost me upwards of of $35K. Each session, he would ask me the same questions, making me repeat myself, almost like he wasn't listening or taking notes. These redundant sessions drove my cost up. He also failed to negotiate for my rights during the divorce proceeding and I had to do the lawyer thinking for him. My ex spouse's attorney was much more competent and prepared than him. Do not use him unless you are prepared to watch your hard earned money disappear.
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31 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Castro assisted me with my divorce matter from beginning to end. I was very pleased with the outcome and the assistance throughout the entire matter.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Melissa brito
I cannot recommend Smith & Eulo Law Firm enough! From the moment I approached them, I felt supported and informed. Their team was professional, compassionate, and truly dedicated to my case. They took the time to explain each step of the legal process to me, making it easy for me to understand. Thanks to his experience, I got the result I expected. If you need reliable legal representation, look no further than Smith & Eulo Law Firm
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01 Oct, 2024 by Demetra thrower
These are my brother’s words
I hired Eulo&Smith in April 2024 to cover my 2023 & 2024 Polk Case as well as my 2024 VOP in Hillsbough. I met Marie taylor who charged me $3000 for my VOP and 2024 Cass. I also Paid her $10,000 plus 1.5x totaling to $15,000 for my 2023 Polk case. She came to meet me and told me things that she was not able to do. She promised alot that did not come. She ignored me and my family for weeks. She missed both of my court dates as well as missed promises to come see me. I was told in July 2024 that she quit the law firm. I was then appointed Ms. Shannon Bailey which works for Eulo&Smith who constantly ignored my family again as well as her client, me, in jail. She made promsies to come see me and never came. In the past 6 months, I've only seen attoneys who were fill ins from the law firm on my last 4 manditory doctetings. The judge was livid as it does not take 6 months to articulate a deal that was supposed to be settled. Eulo&Smith took on too many cases according to Ms. Bailey and they're not able to keep up. I'm being foreced into taking a deal or going to trial in 3 weeks becasue this law firm has not reached out to me but only once about my case details and to make matters worse, the lawyer to heard them quit, Ms. Taylor. I have had chance court date after court date for someone to come out here and see me as i write this from a Kiosk. I have no way to contact my attorney except for my family as they're being ignored. I told a fill in from my court date that i paid 1.5x for better and priorty service and the employee, which I'm assuming is from the Orlando office, that there is no such thing as 1.5x or priorty service. I was told from Bailey that taylor took on too many clients and quit which I'm assuming she did to get paid and left.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
Luka's life became great being a new hire FBI agent and after the character destruction I went through. Luka's refusal to go on the offensive resulted in me being made- friendless, character destroyed and homeless without stable employment because he refused to prosecute to protect my civil liberties and rights.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn kagan
My HOA has this firm on retainer. I sent an email asking our attorney how much he would charge us to write a contract for a project. The reply was 4 quick lines and we were billed $81 for their "services". I can't figure out how else I would have found out the cost of the project without asking. Insane and insulting....we may be shopping for new legal counsel shortly!!
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08 May, 2022 by Drew brogdon
08 May, 2022 by Colleen brogdon
19 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Dealing with him as one of the worst attorney experience I’ve ever had. He is so unprofessional he will just start screaming if you don’t agree with him. I hired him to help represent my family he just seemed very combative and kept going on about politics as well. As I have no vested interest in politics Democrat or Republican he was obsessed with believing anybody in the republican party deeming them all Nazis. It was very unprofessional and would go on long rants about Donald Trump. He was more interested in doing this and listening to my case. He also was disrespectful to the judge which made it very difficult for me. The outcome of my case was terrible my worst fears. Please do not hire this man he appears to have mental problems.
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04 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Called for quick legal advice. I was surprised at the unprofessionalism and rudeness this attorney displayed. No good.
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29 Nov, 2020 by Carla
I was reunited with my son. My case was definitely not easy but Mr Garcia fought for my family,
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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.
