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23 Sep, 2024 by Sam allen
Very helpful, and informative. Edward Stemmer was excellent.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Casey regan
27 May, 2024 by Tori h keck
Edward Stemmer at NMLaw is highly professional. I collaborated with him on establishing a Trust, which can be complex, but he simplified the process efficiently. He was remarkably patient and understanding, even when we had numerous inquiries. I feel comfortable reaching out to him with any questions without hesitation. His kindness and expertise are truly commendable.
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29 Oct, 2018 by Steve
Even among the hundreds of experienced and talented attorneys I know, Sheila stands out as one of the best. A few months back I turned to Sheila for a very important legal matter I was facing, and needless to say, she delivered! It was striking how she was immediately able to triage the legal issue I was facing, predict what I would encounter next, and provided proactive steps to protect my business. I am still shocked at how everything she predicted came to fruition.
As an attorney myself, I can't understate how talented Sheila is at everything employment related. There is no ego, no bluster, no grandstanding. You are free to ask "dumb" questions, but she will never make you feel dumb for asking them. She brings a deep, rich understanding of the law while making you feel like you are the only client she has.
I would recommend Sheila to anyone looking for a well-read and caring advocate who will take a personal interest in his or her case!
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06 Mar, 2018 by K meza
I am very satisfied with the legal support the was given to me, Sheila is always there to answer any questions in a very professional and a shortly matter of time, I highly recommend Sheila at any given time. indeed support is always there and the out come is always satisfying. Thank you Sheila once again.
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21 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
It’s a family curse. In my family, we desire to keep the peace at any cost and come up with all kinds of excuses for not standing up for our rights. The trend ended couple of months ago when I felt cheated and refused to turn the other cheek. I contacted Attorney Sheila M. Witt.
I had heard about her busy schedule, and was surprised when she responded quickly to hear about my needs. In our first phone conversation she accepted to take on the case, making sure I understood the scope and parameters of our agreement. I knew exactly where I stood.
I was pleasantly surprised with her ability to separate facts from feelings, and stand firm in her resolve. After receiving couple of refusals by the other party to do the right thing, I truly felt that the case would be resolved in court. Instead Attorney Witt called me a few days ago, and informed me that my check was in the mail.
I feel that I won twice. I won by standing up for myself, and by getting my hard earned money back. I definitely recommend Attorney Sheila M. Witt if you are looking for a caring, energetic, fair and focused attorney.
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28 Aug, 2019 by Darla
Truly the best Lawyer I have ever encountered!
We needed a Lawyer, we looked and researched Lawyer’s.
We made an appointment, met with him and hired him right then.
No more headaches for me. David took over and guided us.
He is a both a good person and Lawyer.
I highly recommend him.
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31 May, 2017 by Hector
I have worked closely with David for over 10 years. He is my “go to” guy when it comes to all matters involving real estate disputes, trust disputes and probate matters. I have referred him many clients and they have always been glad I did. David is not afraid to take on complicated and difficult matters. He’s sensitive to client’s concerns and is aggressive when he needs to be. Not only have I referred him to others, I have used him many times for my own personal legal matters that have come up from time to time.
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26 May, 2017 by Damon
I used David for a probate that involved the sale of real estate. True to his word, he advanced the costs and fees and helped me navigate the tricky tax and legal issues that arise in these complicated matters. David is a consummate professional who always looks out for the best interest of his clients. I highly recommend him.
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09 Jun, 2015 by Tara
Robby Robinson is a very capable, stand-up attorney. He represented me in a long, contentious employee arbitration suit, in which we prevailed. He was thorough, diligent in his research, patient, calm in his demeanor but steadfast in his determination to win the case. His very fair, straightforward and low-key style earned him credibility with the arbitration judge as well as even his adversaries. These cases can be emotional for the claimant, and Robby maintained a positive, confident, professional and calming approach throughout the process. He took the time to make sure that I understood what to expect up front, and explained all the proceedings as we went along. He maintains a lean, but capable team and held up extremely well even when faced with a much larger firm on the other side who always showed up with a few more lawyers than we did. I would not hesitate to recommend Robby Robinson to others seeking representation in employee litigation.
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02 Jun, 2015 by Ross
Robby Robinson is a colleague of mine and we have worked on several employment law cases together. Robby is a superb lawyer and is, in my opinion, one of the top employment law trial attorneys in Orange County. Robby has extensive trial experience and is well-respected in the community by both judges and attorneys. He is intelligent, hard-working, and has contributed to the successful outcome on each case we have worked on together. I strongly endorse Robby.
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28 May, 2015 by Deborah
Mr. Robinson was responsive and extremely knowledgeable in labor law. He was very forthright and direct with his approach and kept me informed.
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10 Mar, 2023 by Robert
We were lucky to find Deanna Stone and Aaron Morris of Morris and Stone Law Firm!
I was being named in an Anti-Slapp case by Senator Catherine Blakespear. Morris and Stone jumped in, wrote the Judge a very well thought out and detailed statement with supporting evidence from previous Supreme Court cases demonstrating that I should not be named in the Anti-SLAPP.
In the end the judge agreed with Morris & Stone's statement in its "Entirety". It was obvious the judge was impressed with Morris and Stone's defense.
If I ever have any legal issues in the future I will certainly contact Aaron Morris and Deanna Stone. If you're reading this review I recommend you call them as well, they give a great consultation are extremely knowledgeable and fair.
I'm very thankful that I found Morris & Stone!
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16 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Deanna is very professional and willing to help. I called for a free consultation and was surprised that my question was answered so thoroughly that I was able to proceed without a lawyer. Deanna answered all of my questions and at no time did I feel she was waiting for me to hire her. She was genuinely interested in my problem and spent about 45 minutes talking to me and even told me to call her back if I had any other questions. Her advice was spot on and did not cost me a dime. In the event I do need an attorney in the future, I will definitely call Deanna again.
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16 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Morris & Stone to represent me on a Construction Management issue. She was professional & most of all worked with me on payments since I am a self-employed, self-supporting individual. Having her on board has helped to relieve the stress a law suit can cause. She was receptive & available immediately for my stressful phone calls. She has been clear on explaining issues to me and I feel like I have someone on my side.
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10 Nov, 2010 by Z
I went to seen many attorneys before meeting Attorney Zwick. He was very knowledgeable, compassionate and dedicated. He listen carefully to what I needed to say and then went to court to defend our case that was about to get thrown out of court and won a TRO and we are still in our home.
God bless him!
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10 Nov, 2010 by D m
I filed a complaint against the lender In Pro Per and after visiting another attorney in Los Angeles who took my case and didn't do anything for a month, a frien of mine referred me to Attorney Kenneth Zwick who was like an angel sent y God and saved my case.
He cares about his clients as much as his cases.
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30 Nov, 2020 by B.g.
Ethical, conscientious, professional and knowledgeable. I can't say enough about Cathy Kim, she definitely does her job extremely well. Words alone can't express my gratitude for not only all of her diligent work, but for always going above and beyond. Cathy had to deal with several unscrupulous individuals on my behalf, and she had a big hand in saving my sanity. She often had to deal with me when I was an emotional mess, and she was able to calm me down and explain things in a manner that was always reassuring. She advised me of my fiduciary responsibilities as a Trustee and guided me through painful probate and litigation matters. I was very blessed to have Cathy represent me, and I will be forever grateful. You will not regret choosing her as your attorney, she is simply the best.
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16 Jan, 2014 by Barbara s.
I count it a great pleasure and privilege to express to others my experience with the Ernest Joon Kim Law Firm, and in particular the services rendered my family by Attorney Catherine Kim.
I had just lost my dear sister and found myself experiencing for the very first time, the daunting process called Probate. Desperately seeking answers I discovered AVVO and submitted my concerns in hopes that someone would enlighten and assist me in my efforts. Attorney Ernest J. Kim responded with a full page summary addressing all my questions and concerns. I immediately felt that with an empathetic and understanding attorney as this, how could I go wrong with retaining their services. They were the fourth firm I had contacted, and the only ones that were not offended by my need to know and understand the Probate process so I could effectively provide what was required of me to the attorney representing me. I telephoned the firm and Ms. Catherine Kim responded.
From our first encounter I felt very comfortable in discussing all the issues with Ms. Kim. Oftentimes I was overwhelmed with grief, the probate process, the difficulty in finding a genuine, caring attorney who was not too busy to answer my questions with courtesy, professionalism and patience. I could not have found a more skilled and adept attorney than Ms. Kim. She is knowledgeable, conscientious, courteous, trustworthy, kind, patient, and compassionate. She addressed all my concerns and the many questions plaguing me regarding this intimidating Probate process. She quieted me and guided me through all my anxiety. No amount of words can express my sincere and deepest gratitude for her support and assistance.
Ms. Kim was always available to me and responded promptly to my telephone calls and emails. She was there to help me at every juncture going above and beyond the call for Probate services. I always felt at ease, burdens lightened and encouraged that I could do all that was required of me.
As busy as Ms. Kim may have been, I never felt rushed off the telephone or that she was too busy to assist me in working through every issue. Rather, she patiently took the time to explain in laymen terms what I needed to know, ensuring that all concepts were clear, concise, and understandable, so that I would be in a position to make good informed decisions.
Within only three days after retaining her services Ms. Kim represented me in court. She kept me informed and abreast of all court actions. She provided easy and understandable explanations of issues and provided legal counsel in all areas of concern to me, some even being outside of Probate. There is no doubt in my mind that these past two years of going through the probate process, the encouragement and support I received from Ms. Kim is immeasurable. She exudes integrity in all she does.
Ms. Kim successfully brought my family through the probate process and we are very pleased with her services. She was upfront and truthful about all statutory fees and cost, and also offered us the option for a discounted rate.
We highly esteem and recommend Ms. Kim to anyone requiring Estate Planning Services. I have also personally retained her to do my Will and Trust, and is recommending her to one of my good friends. Her services are outstanding and her work impeccable. Put your mind at ease and allow Ms. Kim the opportunity to service all your estate planning needs. She’s the best. Thank you Ms. Kim.
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05 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Counselor was 100% on track the whole time. Answered all my questions and settled my case better than anyone can. Thank you for all the help brother.
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29 Apr, 2017 by Adam
George handled my matter with professionalism and competence. He understood my issues clearly and moved us to a successful solution. I would highly recommend him.
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09 Mar, 2022 by Elizabeth
Mr. Brown is an oustanding attorney. His line of communication with his clients is superior. I know alot of attorneys expect the paralegals & legal assistants to handle clients because they are dealing with the courts, and other attorneys. However, he jumps in to ease a clients stress over an already stressful situation. I am very appreciative of his work ethics & communication line with me.
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31 May, 2015 by Daisy
Alan brown is an outstanding lawyer who is brilliant. The first thing you will be impressed with is his integrity. Mr. Alan Craig Brown, Esq. is not only a professor of law but a very skilled trial lawyer, and, also is a member of the American Board of Trial advocates (for non-lawyers like myself, they accept only the very best trial lawyers, who are heavily vetted by lawyers, judges, clients and peers. In other words, he is in the Top 1%.) It became very apparent why he is so exceptional early on in our working relationship. Before I even sat down with Mr. Brown he had spent hours reviewing material i emailed him and did his own research about my case before we even met; he and then spent two hours discussing it with me. There are countless reasons I would recommend Mr. Brown. He is very detailed, misses nothing. Always extremely well- prepared and wins almost all his cases. Lawyers don't get too much better than this. I would recommend him very highly.
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07 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Murphy is hands down the best lawyer in practice. His many years of experience are an asset that is hard to find. He had great communication with the judge and knowledge of the law and codes to get me a better than expected outcome on multiple cases. I would recommend him without hesitation and plan to use him again for any legal needs that may come up and I have used several other lawyers to compare him to who seem incompetent in comparison. He is very prepared and does a lot of research before stepping foot in court - traits that are not easy to come by.
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21 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
He was such a great asset to our family in our time of need! Thank you Mr. Murphy for all of your help! Very professional and knowledgeable.
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09 May, 2022 by Sue
Mr Abendroth gave me at least an hour of his free time over the phone and helped me regarding a situation that I am currently dealing with. He was professional kind and compassionate and gave me concrete advice that I could use today.
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05 Apr, 2014 by Michael
Did a family illness lead to a legal and financial nightmare--as though you had walked onto the stage of an absurdist play? And then, when you turned to a lot of professionals for help, they gave you the wrong advice or absurd decisions and then turned their backs on you? The Kim team to the rescue! In my case involving a family trust, they went to work immediately, with Mrs. Kim taking down my details by phone; they stayed in very close contact by both phone and email; they were able quickly to write the legal opinion I needed even better than I had imagined. Unlike another lawyer I had previously hired, the Kim team wasn't stumped by a trust with a provision somewhat different from the usual. They also have been clear on their fees. Only when you've felt utterly legally and financially helpless can you understand the value of what Mr. Ernest J Kim's team can do for you: the peace their competence, speed, attention to detail, and communication skills provide. They immediately understood my predicament and were thinking ahead; they were never hard to reach by phone or email. Only the word "excellent" suffices to describe my experience with Mr. Kim's team. [I have not been paid anything to write this review--it is MY pleasure to do so!]
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19 Jun, 2023 by D p “dpw” w
Top notch
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26 Aug, 2022 by Tom pearson
06 May, 2022 by Dustin deese
Donahoo and Associates recently handled an employment suit I had against a previous employer. Sarah, (1 of the attorneys), from their firm was amazing! She was very thorough and attentive throughout the entire process. Any concerns or questions I had were addressed promptly, and, I felt very informed and involved. They achieved an outcome, without having to go to trial, that I could not be happier with! They're an A+ firm & everyone I dealt with was professional, informative, and very accommodating. I would refer them to anyone in need of their services!
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19 Jun, 2023 by D p “dpw” w
Top notch
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26 Aug, 2022 by Tom pearson
06 May, 2022 by Dustin deese
Donahoo and Associates recently handled an employment suit I had against a previous employer. Sarah, (1 of the attorneys), from their firm was amazing! She was very thorough and attentive throughout the entire process. Any concerns or questions I had were addressed promptly, and, I felt very informed and involved. They achieved an outcome, without having to go to trial, that I could not be happier with! They're an A+ firm & everyone I dealt with was professional, informative, and very accommodating. I would refer them to anyone in need of their services!
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07 Oct, 2022 by Dede cates
05 Aug, 2016 by Antoinette latini
14 Mar, 2023 by Mari frank
She’s a top notch professional!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Alan dahlqvist
Great legal services. Highly recommend Pinkham and associates for all of your needs
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17 Jul, 2024 by Jeffrey k.
The receptionist is polite. The self-help videos on YouTube are so helpful. And D. Pinkham is a true Gentleman, very knowledgeable and capable, and ready and willing to help. I recommend that anybody that has any Family Law issues come to this law firm first. You won't be disappointed!!!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Brandon byrd
First and foremost look no further. Doug and Cathy worked diligently to resolve a very complexed case. Cathy you’re the best and I can’t thank you enough. Cathy represented me and far exceeded my expectations. My case was a complicated child custody matter. Pinkham and Associates thank you for being in my corner. From start to finish the entire staff was extremely helpful and knowledgeable during my most difficult and challenging times. I am pleased to share that we came out on top. Got what I wanted and some. At the end of the day I could not have done it without them. I would like to add so everyone has a better understanding their affordability, financially they worked with me as I didn’t have much. I did not have the funds but did everything I could and made it happen. Best decision ever. My results: Doug and Kathy paved the way for a bright future for my two young daughters and I. I will continue utilizing their services as needed moving forward. Thank you Doug, Cathy and staff.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Aylinn huerta flores (student whs)
22 May, 2024 by Test
25 Nov, 2023 by Chad richardson
No words can describe the gratitude that me and my family have for you. The way you took time you and your team with the investigation and how thoroughly you put together your arguments from beginning until closing you gave us hope, when hope was lost. Mr Garson, you changed a potential 75 year sentence to a 1 year sentence. The Brown and Richardson family appreciate YOU. You got a man with 3 strikes 1 year on a 664/187 charge. We are forever grateful. Best Criminal Defense Attorney.
Sincerely,
Chad Richardson
Aka FREE MAN!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Aylinn huerta flores (student whs)
22 May, 2024 by Test
25 Nov, 2023 by Chad richardson
No words can describe the gratitude that me and my family have for you. The way you took time you and your team with the investigation and how thoroughly you put together your arguments from beginning until closing you gave us hope, when hope was lost. Mr Garson, you changed a potential 75 year sentence to a 1 year sentence. The Brown and Richardson family appreciate YOU. You got a man with 3 strikes 1 year on a 664/187 charge. We are forever grateful. Best Criminal Defense Attorney.
Sincerely,
Chad Richardson
Aka FREE MAN!
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22 Jul, 2024 by Veronica quevedo
13 Jul, 2024 by Arturo morales
12 Jul, 2024 by Flor de maría avalos romero
22 Jul, 2024 by Veronica quevedo
13 Jul, 2024 by Arturo morales
12 Jul, 2024 by Flor de maría avalos romero
18 Aug, 2016 by Kristina
Tina was amazing. I had a case ongoing for 7 years! My last Attorney did nothing but waste my money. Tina was able to get me divorced finally and my entire custody situation worked out in only a year! On top of that she turned what was an extremely emotional and stressful time into something that was more bearable. She LISTENED to me and provided honest feedback. She was there whenever I needed her. Her and the entire team was responsive and wonderful. I wish I would have hired her from day 1.
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04 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Tina Talbot as a QDRO attorney. I cannot express how difficult I found her to work with. She seemed to either forget or ignore requests/direction that I and others gave her, and never seemed to pass important information along to the accountant, so that the calculations had to be redone 3 times. As a lawyer, I felt she communicated poorly: the process, my choices, answers to my questions. And to top it off she kept reminding me how little she was making for the amount of work she was doing.
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05 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
We can always count on Tina for great advise and to set our minds at ease with any concerns. She really knows her stuff, the system, the court staff (and judge or other attorney you may be facing). She has a great heart but is a PIT BULL in court. She has worked with our other family and friends and all are very happy with her. Stop looking, she's the one. -C & F
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23 Jan, 2018 by Courtney
Ms. Beckman did nothing to fight for me. She never called to tell me that the divorce was finalized. I called for an update one day and she screamed at me...not raised her voice, not yelled but screamed. The next day she sent me a bill for her services.
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11 May, 2015 by Anthony
Karen is an EXCELLENT Attorney. She is well versed, well spoken and detail oriented. She thinks of the unthinkable as it relates to defending her client. Keeping her client well informed of all possible outcomes appears to be a motto of hers. Then she strategically and systematically fights for you with everything she has. As a client, her rating should be changed to 9.9 without question.
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24 Apr, 2015 by Trish
I had a one year marriage and two year divorce. This happened a decade ago. I never doubted that Karen was on my side and doing her very best for me and my child.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Jenny
Giovanni, was very helpful he took the time to listen and explained the process moving forward
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09 May, 2024 by Angel davis
Choosing Mr. Milan was the best decision I made for my family's well-being. Co-parenting with a narcissist felt like an insurmountable task, but his unwavering support and expertise provided a beacon of hope during a tumultuous time. With his guidance, I found strength I didn't know I had, and together, we crafted a plan that put my child's happiness and stability first. Mr. Milan didn't just represent me in court; he became a trusted ally and source of comfort throughout the journey. For anyone facing the daunting challenge of co-parenting with a narcissist, I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Milan for his unparalleled dedication and genuine compassion.
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05 May, 2024 by Allison wooldridge
I cannot recommend the Law Offices of Giovanni Milan highly enough! From the moment I stepped into his welcoming office in Tustin, California, I knew I was in good hands. Giovanni is not only incredibly kind but also a master at breaking down complex legal matters into simple, understandable terms. His fun and relatable personality made the entire experience surprisingly enjoyable.
Giovanni is a stellar communicator who kept me constantly updated throughout the process, ensuring I was never left in the dark. Thanks to his expertise and diligent work, he got me the result I desperately needed and truly saved me in a bind. If you're looking for a lawyer who combines professionalism with a personal touch, Giovanni is your go-to. I’d highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Brian schram
07 Aug, 2023 by Richard hutchins
I had a fantastic experience working with Justine Dell as my family lawyer. Her fairness, attentive listening, and dedication to addressing my concerns and needs were truly commendable. I am extremely thankful for everything she did for me.
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24 Apr, 2023 by Monica martinez
31 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I called Mr. Magro for a consult after another attorney i respect referred me. Mr. Magro was extremely rude from the start, and yelled at me when I attempted to ask a question. He said he could not work with me because I don't listen. I could not work with him because he is rude. I took my business, which was considerable, elsewhere.
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03 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I called this lawyer for assistence and I couldn't get a word in, He was rude and very foul mouth.
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24 Sep, 2015 by Colleen
My husband called several attorneys before speaking with Mr. Magro about our estate plan. Mr. Magro was caring & very professional when we talked to him about our wishes & plans. We decided to hire him to prepare our trust & wills. There are so many decisions to be made when making a plan like this, like, who should be in charge if something happened to us and what choices we would like that person to make for us. Mr Magro was very patient with us and answered our questions in a way that was really easy to understand. We received the documents from him on the date he promised and his fee was super reasonable. I would totally recommend Stephen M. Magro if you need estate planning.
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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.
