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Mark Paul Grundman, experienced Litigation, Workers Compensation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 1 reviews
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32,03
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4.0/5
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4.0
1 Reviews
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17 Apr, 2024 by Tresa
Mark is an awesome Worker’s Comp. attorney. He explains everything with you thoroughly through the process. He helps you along the way he’s full of knowledge and takes the time to talk with you so you understand exactly what you’re doing! he handles your case and tells you what you need to do and what to expect, and what his fees are going to be,He takes the time to answer any questions, in layman‘s terms, so you understand. He’s kind and patient, & I would recommend him to any family or friends.
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Jeffrey Craig Schilling, experienced Government, Intellectual Property attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 63 reviews
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31,32
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4.7/5
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4.7
63 Reviews
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14 Feb, 2025 by Ermie herring
In November of 2023, my brother passed away. It was the saddest time for my family. We were overwhelmed with grief. My brother did not have a will. We knew we needed legal assistance in sorting out my brother’s estate. In the summer of 2025, I took a chance and emailed the Talbot Law Group and briefly described our situation. I was not expecting an immediate response but Elizabeth Talbot from the firm promptly responded to my inquiry. I had a very pleasant conversation with Elizabeth. She spoke to one of the Partners at the firm on our behalf. Our case was assigned to Emily Nashban. My sister and I met with Emily virtually. Emily understood our situation, explained all the options available to us, answered all our questions and at the same time kept our expectations real. Once Emily took over our case, she meticulously managed all the necessary documents, handled the arrangements with the Probate Referee and all communications with the court, providing us timely updates along the way. She was completely transparent, which was especially important to me. I found that the Talbot Law Group staff is easy to talk to and extremely professional. Their expertise and in depth knowledge on the matter is evident. I felt confident that they were the best law group to handle our case and to recommend the appropriate option specific to our situation. Consulting with the Talbot Law Group was the best decision I’ve ever made for my family. They made what seemed to us a complicated situation an easy and smooth process. Not only they helped resolve our issue but they did it in a timely fashion. I cannot speak highly enough about the Talbot Law Group, especially Emily Nashban, who guided me throughout the entire process and answered my questions no matter how insignificant. I felt the same with Elizabeth Talbot who was always responsive to my additional inquiries. The support we received from the Talbot Law Group is priceless. Their expertise, professionalism, commitment and understanding of our needs are commendable. On behalf of my family, I want to thank the staff of the Talbot Law Group for the extraordinary support they provided us. I highly recommend them! Ermie H., Waldorf, MD
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01 Nov, 2024 by Nancy monroe
Nathan and his business associates are the best! I felt like well taken care of throughout the probate process and almost like I was losing family when it ended
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30 Oct, 2024 by David flin
Nathan came to me during a very difficult time, he navigated me through the entire process. He was able to resolve my case.
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Lisa Gina Schlittner, experienced Litigation, Personal Injury attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 24 reviews
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30,20
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4.5/5
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4.5
24 Reviews
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02 Dec, 2024 by Roger lamm
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31 Jan, 2024 by Giliat ghebray
Current working with Ethan and his team and very happy with the progress. Custody cases/arrangements can be very stressful and his team has been very communicative and supportive. I can reach out to them anytime and receive a timely response - something that is super important to me. Things can come up at any time and having a team that can provide rapid assistance is critical. I highly recommend Bay Area Family Law Center to anyone looking for top tier support and guidance!
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30 Jan, 2024 by Lauren covinha
Jay Renneisen is such an amazing, professional and honest lawyer. He is definitely someone you would want to have on your side! He was attentive to my needs, listened to all my concerns, was very organized and incredibly responsive to every email and phone call. He was able to win my case and get the result that I wanted! I would highly recommend Jay to anyone looking for a lawyer for his scope of work!
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Nathan Damian Pastor, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 1 reviews
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28,03
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4.0/5
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4.0
1 Reviews
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20 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I contacted Me Pastor about a trust matter, retained him, and later decided not to proceed due to a changing situtation. I would recommend him because I thought he was very straight dealing and honest.
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Mark Joseph Wleklinski, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 5 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
24,99
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4.2/5
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4.2
5 Reviews
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03 May, 2024 by Carroll menasco
Uses robocalls to bother people
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26 Apr, 2024 by Alex martinez
Ron and Sandi do great work and deeply care for their clients.
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06 May, 2019 by Amy schroll
I have known Ron for a few years now and both he and his office are very pleasant to work with. Lyn at the front desk is friendly and welcoming, and Chris is wonderful too. Ron is well- organized and works efficiently. Ron does a great job and has a terrific team on his staff.
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Kara Lianne Wild, experienced Class Action, Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 10 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
20,76
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3.3/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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3.1
9 Reviews
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23 Dec, 2024 by Twilight zone
If you want your case to last for ever with no resolution and pay extreme amount of money Mr. Wolch is the man for the job.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Jon del arroz
This firm screwed over two little children by getting them ripped from their home and took incredibly high fees in the process. They will fight over $10 and rack up $2000 in bills to do so. Avoid at all costs.
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05 Dec, 2023 by Megan mcdougle
Excellent lawyer for my best friend!! I’m so grateful for this human being!
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Crystal Lee Vanderputten, experienced Litigation, Real Estate attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,44
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3.7/5
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3.7
3 Reviews
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24 Aug, 2021 by Michael m
Very good customer service and Brian is the best!
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24 Jul, 2017 by Jennifer srivastava
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28 Dec, 2015 by Michael young
Merritt Weisinger handled my divorce proceeding. He is an excellent attorney, and did a top notch job for me. He was also very supportive of me during a very difficult time in my life. I highly recommend Merritt to anyone who is in need of a very good divorce attorney.. Mike Y.
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Daniel Patrick Beaver, experienced Litigation, Real Estate attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,10
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3.6/5
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3.6
6 Reviews
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20 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
He helped us on a boundary dispute case before. He was horrible. I can't even remotely understand the good comments he got. Those must be kindergarten cases. He was not responsible and completely incompetent. He screwed up in every possible way. He was completely unorganized, spread out messy paperwork in conference room, only rented a space in another firm's office, doesn't even have his own office. He was completely incompetent. Beware!!!!
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12 Jun, 2021 by D j
Dan was a lifesaver, skillfully navigating an unfortunate mess which arose with our renter while evictions were on hold under most circumstances. Dan jumped right in, successfully intervening before the situation reached a full on 'crisis' phase. Dan's intervention resulted in a favorable resolution with no litigation necessary. The legal fees we paid were an ultimate cost savings, many times over. One area where Dan really stands out from the pack: you can reach him. When I first reached out, he called me back within the hour. He commenced work immediately and went out of his way to make himself reachable when ongoing problems arose with our renters, simultaneous to juggling his Court appearances. This really made Dan stand out as we were far from his top 'rainmaker' case. I cannot underscore how pivotal it is to work with a litigator who makes the time for your case when an unscheduled crisis is brewing. Another key stand out about Dan is that you always get him, a senior litigator who naturally pivots between the courtroom and applying his litigator's toolkit to keep you out of the Courtroom from the get go. Dan is confident calling a spade a spade and suave enough to do so in a manner that conveys the point in a way which facilitates resolution with the other side. Although we hope to avert any issues in the future, we are more confident conducting rentals knowing that Dan will have our back if a problem develops.
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21 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
He charged me a retainer, did nothing, responds not at all, except to try to avoid a reversal of the fee charged to my credit card. In six months, he has never, never returned a call. How he can stay in practice is beyond me.
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Howard Richard Melamed, experienced Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 8 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,68
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3.4/5
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1.0
2 Reviews
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4.2
6 Reviews
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28 Mar, 2023 by Mitchell granahan
I have worked with Michael for over a year. He is by far the most professional, experienced, and qualified attorney I have worked with. He is extremely helpful and also one of the best communicators as well. I would highly recommend him to anyone in California.
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08 Jul, 2019 by Susan williams
The receptionist was VERY rude. The environment twas very hostile!! Unbelievable!!!
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18 Apr, 2018 by Faizi s
Front desk is not very pleasant, but my lawyer is good.
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Geoffrey William Steele, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,44
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3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
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01 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Geoffrey Steele was hired by my scumbag aunt and sister to handle conservatorship of my mother who has really bad dementia. After emptying her bank account and sticking her in the first nursing home available they all thought the best thing for my poor dying mother was to not allow me to speak to her or visit her. I called him repeatedly for weeks, only to get the runaround. Now she has moved out of state away from everything and everyone she’s ever known or loved. He lied to my face repeatedly. If you’re looking to screw the elderly out of money, this is your guy!
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14 Feb, 2013 by Donna
I hired Geoffrey Steele to help me with the absolute worst condo association co owners. It's a 2-unit association in a high-end neighborhood in San Francisco and the other unit was bought by the worst possible neighbors ever--never paid their bills, took money from the reserve account for personal expenses, constantly left trash all over porch and yard, had father and son drumsets in the bedroom, and so much more. They could care less about the CC&Rs, and I hired Mr Steele to correct this. He was steadfast, insistent, and persuasive. Few lawyers would have been able to get through to these people--even with threats of legal action (hadn't worked before) or appeals to common decency (hadn't worked either). Mr Steele did. He has a keen understanding of real estate/condo association law, steel-trap recollection of details, direct and forceful manner, and supportive and understanding interactions with the client. I'd always be glad he is on my side and not the opposite!
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26 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
Is currently and has for the last two years lawyered my case against a bank corporation. His work is detailed, honest, thoughtful, and incisive. He is also very personable, taking a genuine interest in clients well being during a grueling and lengthy process.
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Joseph Hart Wolch, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 5 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,57
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3.4/5
Avvo
3.4
5 Reviews
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07 Jul, 2024 by Sw3tflower
Mr Wolch represented me at a contempt trial against my husband. It was an open/shut case. He demanded we go ahead with the divorce despite knowing my husband had no attorney to represent him. The judge threw out the case. Mr Wolch did not respond to any of my Emails or calls concerning the divorce settlement my husband gave me. He went 3 months without any communication and then advised me to sign the settlement despite knowing I had no idea how it would affect me. It was a very bad settlement. An attorney who does not communicate with his clients and has a lack of knowledge about law is not the type of attorney who will be working in your best interests, especially during a divorce.
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22 Nov, 2017 by Cathy
Wolch is about the worst you can do for a family law attorney in Contra Costa County. He runs up his bills, has his inept associates doing most of the work, and repeatedly confused my case with another that he was working on at the time. Do yourself a favor and steer clear of this clown.
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04 Oct, 2013 by Mandi
Please accept again my sincere thanks and appreciation for the help and legal assistance you provided as my divorce attorney.
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Eugene James Chiarelli, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
11,72
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2.0/5
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2.0
1 Reviews
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15 Sep, 2023 by John
Eugene Chiarelli told us initially that he felt he "may" be able to resolve our case within the initial retainer of $5000. However after 3 months and over $15,500 spent, all we received is contact information on the opposing lawyer with zero resolution. We had to fire Eugene as it became clear that we were being taken advantage of. Eugene knew exactly how to "work" our case slowly and milk it for all he could. I have persoanlly gained more ground in 1 month with the opposing attorney then Eugene did in 3 months time.
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David Jonathon Simon, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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James Joseph O'Donnell, experienced Car Accident, Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
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1.0/5
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1.0
1 Reviews
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28 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I've contacted him through messaging here to inquire about a case last month, and I'm still waiting to hear back. This makes me not believe that this site is credible or maybe just his office is really bad in replying to people.
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Williem J Bard, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Jessica May Takano, experienced Litigation, Real Estate attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Craig Allen Livingston, experienced Litigation, Personal Injury attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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James J. Ficenec, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Christopher Hart Doyle, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Brian David Shaffer, experienced Litigation, Real Estate attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Stephen Brendan Welch, experienced Litigation, Personal Injury attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Thomas William Chaffee, experienced Litigation, Real Estate attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Jason John Granskog, experienced Litigation, Real Estate attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Lara Janine Heisler, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Andrew Barclay Byrnes, experienced Litigation, Real Estate attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Sarah Lynn Garcia, experienced Litigation, Real Estate attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Sharon Cohen Collier, experienced Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Rayelle Dawn Sabo, experienced Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Emily Kristine Clark, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Cathleen S. Huang, experienced Litigation attorney in Walnut Creek, CA with 0 reviews
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4,00
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. What are the potential outcomes of my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case's strengths, weaknesses, and the likelihood of success.
  3. What is your fee structure?
    Clarify how you'll be charged, whether by the hour, a flat fee, or on a contingency basis.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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