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30 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I have worked with Mr. McMullen several times regarding different legal areas. In business law he has worked diligently to strengthen my business for compliance and contracts while upholding our core values.
In family law he has been invaluable in supporting me as a trustee in unraveling estates cleanly and clearly. His knowledge and deep consideration of the issues have informed clear pathways to resolution.
Having worked with other attorneys on estate and trust issues, Mr McMullen was by far the most knowledgable and personally skilled to address the issues and concerns. His advise led to remarkable outcomes that strengthened family relationships at a time in life that often undermines them.
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20 Nov, 2023 by Kayte
Donald has been our legal advisor on multiple business and personal contracts. He is incredibly detail oriented. Working with him has been a huge relief and he has a way making sense of the complicated. The whole office is kind and helpful.
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07 Sep, 2020 by Nan
Donald McMullen has been representing our property owners association in a complex real estate case. He has proven himself very knowledgeable about the relevant law and able to communicate in a clear and timely manner about our options and their pros and cons. He has been strategic in his approach to the case, laying groundwork so that we have been at an advantage as future potential developments have materialized. During trial, he was extremely sharp, focused, and quick thinking (we prevailed on all counts). Mr. McMullen has, at all times, been professional, straightforward, and level headed and has well earned the respect and gratitude of each of the 20-plus members of our group.
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06 Nov, 2015 by Allison
Circumstance unfortunate but outcome EXCELLENT due to retaining Mr. KINDOPP to represent me in a few cases starting back in 2001 in a traffic case and most recently this past year in a custody battle in which a father abandoned his first born after requesting emergency custody which was denied yet felt just 6 months later without any significant changes that leaving his daughter in the mothers care 100% showing his original request was a waste of everyone's time. Mr. Kindopp is very personable with his clients yet does not offer a false sense of hope but a few various likely realities so no surprises causing upset arise. He is quick to point out facts that are backed up by evidence leaving no room for error and providing a secure expectation and an attorney / client trust like no other. He explains why things need to be done a certain way eliminating all confusion or anxiety. He presents himself in a very professional manner and always one step ahead due to his thorough review of all case notes, discovery, pleadings abd correspondence. He can be a breath of fresh air yet demonstrates his knowledge and expertise in every case or individual he represents. He's matter-of-fact and straight to the point which in turn wastes no time or money. He is fair aND communicates directly with his clients putting each one at ease rather than leaving them to question the status of their case. We are fortunate to have such a driven, justice seeking, highly educated individual practicing law in our community. I highly recommend Mr. Kindopp for any case in his field of choice if you want a pleasant experience in the court room. I'm so thankful for his gratitude. Time, effort and compassion he has put forth in my cases and will continue to use him in the future shall any legal matters arise again.
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18 Aug, 2011 by Karen
I received Mr. Kindopp's name through an Employee Assistance Program when I had an extremely difficult time dealing with a mortgage company and needed someone on my side. I was short on time due to an impending foreclosure/sale date; after seven months of getting nothing but the run around, verbal and financial abuse by a broken system and stress. I explained the time constraint to his assistant and was scheduled for an appointment quicker than I had imagined. Mr. Kindopp listened to me, provided information and the legal support I needed to effectively deal with this company who had not always been following "the rules" and conveniently lost documents, let them expire or didn't have information when it worked in their favor. I received a phone call from the mortgage company with a proposal for a permanent loan modification within days, and an apology regarding their business practices. When the modification papers arrived I faxed them to Mr. Kindopp's office, concerned about what I was signing. I was shocked to receive a telephone call at 7pm on a Friday evening from him to discuss them. I have never had an attorney who addressed my needs and concerns in such a quick and assertive fashion. Through personal necessity, and work, I have had the opportunity to come in contact with many lawyers in Mendocino County, Mr. Kindopp is at the top of my list. If my family EVER needs an attorney or legal assistance I will be calling Mr. Kindopp.
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10 Jun, 2011 by Michael
Mr. Kindopp worked on a very complicated case that I started. He has been absolutely outstanding.
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01 Aug, 2022 by John
Thank you for the opportunity to bring what Brian did for us to light.
Brian came into our case in the middle of a heated family dispute over my father’s family trust. Brian also simultaneously handled a restraining order for elder abuse brought fourth by my father’s wife. Who also disputed the trust. Brian’s knowledge of the law and calm demeanor combined with his common decency offset the overall negativity and lack of respect brought on by my father’s wife’s family. Brian went above and beyond to explain everything to us and to make us more comfortable. He made an impossible situation seem bearable with his confidence. Brian guided me through one of the worst times of my life. My father’s passing along with the trust and restraining order hearing. Brian’s cross examination of the plaintiffs, my dad’s wife in my restraining order hearing was very strong and led to a ruling from the bench in my favor due to Brian’s knowledge of the law and without Brian having to call any of my witnesses or putting on my defense.
The trust battle was just that. the lies, deception, misrepresentation of facts, distortion of the truth it was unbelievable. Brian was very well prepared and had us on the same page. Very comforting in an extremely difficult situation. My family’s future was on the line and Brian worked as though it was his. We felt Brian’s calm confidence was definitely demonstrated throughout the trial and once again his vast knowledge of the law was what ultimately led to our success. once again Brian received a ruling from the bench. Which is like hitting a grand slam in the MLB Allstar game. A retired judge remarked to us that was an incredible win, no one gets a ruling from the bench in a trust case such as this. We are forever grateful to Brian and his entire staff.
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05 Jan, 2011 by Robert
Mr. Momsen was very easy to reach and to work with. He was always responsive to our emails and phone calls. He understood the case, and worked hard to get us in a good settlement position. We found his ethics to be the highest, as he relied on the documented proof of our case and on the law, no tricks or false claims. He was always pleasant and friendly, and was a pleasure to work with. We are very satisfied with the outcome of our case, as he helped us obtain our objective.
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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.
