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09 Apr, 2024 by J. barrett shipp
31 May, 2023 by Jj trevino
18 May, 2023 by R valdeezy
Great law firm with a great staff to assist any and all!!
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30 Jan, 2025 by Cecilia orta
The BEST Attorney!! Chance McGee is an absolute gem! He’s a kind, down-to-earth man who truly cares about his clients and their futures. From start to finish, he made the bankruptcy process simple and stress-free. His approach is so compassionate, and you can really tell he believes in giving everyone a fresh start. We’ll always recommend Chance to everyone we know. Don’t wait—call him ASAP!
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30 Jan, 2025 by Carlos orta
Mr McGhee did an amazing job. Always on time, and explains everything very well. I definitely recommend him, he did a great job.
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13 Jan, 2025 by Michael “mike” vivroux
I have now used Chance and his office for the 2nd time in my lifetime. In all the times I have transacted with Mr. McGhee it has always turned out to the best. He is very professional and makes things easy to understand. His assistant Lisa is great from the first meeting and explainging the process. To the meeting with Mr. McGhee and having to make a LOT of copies of my records. Only to find out later they were not needed and having to remove all the staples from what I brought. She is a true asset to his firm.
You will be truely happy with the results that Chance produces for you!
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14 Mar, 2017 by Fred
Speeding ticket handled with no anxiety on my part. Turned it over to Brylak who did all the work. No court appearance needed by me and no record on insurance.
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02 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Brylak is a really nice person, but at the time that I hired him as my attorney, he had too many personal problems. He moved up my case 3 times too many without consulting with me first, and didn't fight at mediation. Whatever the other attorney wanted to settle for, he agreed without a fight. I would not recommend this attorney.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Brett hermanson
Brian Walters expertly guided me through a multi-year custody case that was only resolved after a week-long jury trial was held. At trial, Brian was uniquely able to convey empathy towards the other parent while still delivering the hard facts of the case. I believe this resonated with the jury as they were being asked to make a decision that reflected the best interests of the child and not the best interests of either parent. In my personal case, and I suspect in most custody cases, it is easy to demonize the other parent for what they did to you and how their actions are continuing to hurt your parent-child relationship. From my perspective, this is why it is invaluable to retain a legal team that is emotionally intelligent in how they present the facts of the case. Brian was incredibly adaptive when speaking with witnesses and able to effectively anticipate and respond to comments from opposing counsel. Brian unquestionably focused and presented on the best interests of the child and I am beyond grateful to have been able to work with him and his firm.
Logan Kilgore joined our team towards the end of multi-year custody case and brought a refreshing positivity in an otherwise draining situation. Logan swiftly appraised herself of the case and I immediately felt secure not only with her professionalism but more significantly in her level of care. Throughout the case Logan listened to my concerns, stayed focused on the child’s best interests, and used all resources available to accurately convey those concerns during a temporary order hearing and during a week-long jury trial. At trial, I was humbled by Logan’s ability to manage exhibits, coordinate and examine witnesses, and communicate with all involved parties. Further, she was able to accurately recall specific details of the case and then pull factual evidence from the exhibits to directly disprove statements made by witnesses or opposing counsel in a manner that still conveyed empathy to the other parent. Logan’s extensive preparation and emotional intelligence during delivery were instrumental in this case and I consider myself incredibly blessed to have worked with Logan and Walters-Gilbreath, PLLC.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Garrett kocian
I highly recommend this firm. I had a rather difficult case and they helped me every step of the way. Logan was a great help, quick to respond and took time to help me understand my options so I could make informed decisions on how to proceed.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Briana bryant
Outstanding experience with Carah-Beth Bass associate.Very pleasant and professional to work with, but tough as nails with opposing counsel.Polite, Capable and definitely worth our endorsement.
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16 Feb, 2025 by Tracy byrd
Best in the business!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Arnece roberts
If I could give 0 stars I would. Absolutely THE problem when it comes to attorneys this day and age.(maybe it’s just with men). If you want a game where you're being strung along and billed forever playing the rollercoaster game with you and your children's life instead of evidence being presented in a costly/timely and empathetic manner THIS IS YOUR GUY. Mr. Bancroft, i just got off the phone with you where you hung up on me stating that I’m threatening you. Get over your ego and realize that your business as a practicing attourney needs realignment. I wrote you about a standing invoice you provided totaling to less than the amount that Ive paid to you months prior with no response. After speaking to your paralegal, then being transferred to your “billing dept.” and speaking to them I was provided with a newer invoice…..with newer charges, where whomever was working before had originally just simply “forgot to send me the invoice”….what a convenient coincidence. After speaking with her, I was transferred to you where I had a conversation with your ego. Well, from the little guy(s) down here Mr. Bancroft, do whats right and fabricating invoices to skip out on paying balances owed on any moneys paid to you for the services that you DID NOT PROVIDE are just not that. Client paid $1750 in retainer fees(half of your 3500 to get the case started) and had to chase said attourney down for enquiries with little to no communications outside of ones that were initiated by me/client, INCLUDING in person conversation with YOU where I unexpectedly paid a visit to your office in August after I could not successfully contact anyone and asked about a status of my case. You did not recall my case by name until we went to your office and you searched my name.(keep in mind, this is three months after contracting). Attourney invoicing per attourney-client portals all state work for balance of $753, with latest payment from client being $631 in October.(this never happened, only payment made was the initial one and didn't make another due to subpar and in my opinion MALPRACTICAL, I'm aware that isn't an official word, service). After a few months of calling and majorly being placed on hold, back and forth’s with promises of returned calls or motions with paralegals, multiples of them and finally being frustrated with the reality of paying an attourney and not being fought for……while fighting a vindictive situation with my children as a GREAT DAD I asked for an explanation stating that if I did not hear anything as ai had been I wanted to discontinue services and be refunded via message inside of the client portal, I THEN was given a response…..but not with accountability, not with a plan of action, not to communicate any valuable evidence or structured plan of action, but to speak downward of me on the “dismal” months of non-payment……….ultimately this attourney demanded I paid him his past due amount, in addition to totals for mediations that hadn't even been had yet to avoid him WITHDRAWING. Needless to say I attended the mediation PRO SE, paid the mediator directly. I’m now on maximum state mandated child support and standard visitation for the children I equally raised because the relationship did not work out with their mother…finally divorced none the less. All of the evidence in the world to fight that good fight never presented, never saw a represented court setting, money just wasted and thank GOD I demanded a standard or it could have been MUCH MUCH worse financially. Contracted with this attourney on 5/24/2024….attourney withdrew as of 11/5/2024, yet they have still attempted to withdraw payment from my bank as of latest, 12/19/2024…….this was my SECOND attourney over a course of what I recall as a 3 year nightmare……I can confidently say, this is whats wrong with the family law system! Will edit with photo documentation when I have time.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Colton king
My wife and I had to deal with CPS so we hired Valerie to represent us, and we are so happy we did! She laid out a plan, kept us in the loop, and got us through the case with a favorable outcome. Well worth the money! Thank you so much!
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16 Feb, 2025 by Tracy byrd
Best in the business!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Arnece roberts
If I could give 0 stars I would. Absolutely THE problem when it comes to attorneys this day and age.(maybe it’s just with men). If you want a game where you're being strung along and billed forever playing the rollercoaster game with you and your children's life instead of evidence being presented in a costly/timely and empathetic manner THIS IS YOUR GUY. Mr. Bancroft, i just got off the phone with you where you hung up on me stating that I’m threatening you. Get over your ego and realize that your business as a practicing attourney needs realignment. I wrote you about a standing invoice you provided totaling to less than the amount that Ive paid to you months prior with no response. After speaking to your paralegal, then being transferred to your “billing dept.” and speaking to them I was provided with a newer invoice…..with newer charges, where whomever was working before had originally just simply “forgot to send me the invoice”….what a convenient coincidence. After speaking with her, I was transferred to you where I had a conversation with your ego. Well, from the little guy(s) down here Mr. Bancroft, do whats right and fabricating invoices to skip out on paying balances owed on any moneys paid to you for the services that you DID NOT PROVIDE are just not that. Client paid $1750 in retainer fees(half of your 3500 to get the case started) and had to chase said attourney down for enquiries with little to no communications outside of ones that were initiated by me/client, INCLUDING in person conversation with YOU where I unexpectedly paid a visit to your office in August after I could not successfully contact anyone and asked about a status of my case. You did not recall my case by name until we went to your office and you searched my name.(keep in mind, this is three months after contracting). Attourney invoicing per attourney-client portals all state work for balance of $753, with latest payment from client being $631 in October.(this never happened, only payment made was the initial one and didn't make another due to subpar and in my opinion MALPRACTICAL, I'm aware that isn't an official word, service). After a few months of calling and majorly being placed on hold, back and forth’s with promises of returned calls or motions with paralegals, multiples of them and finally being frustrated with the reality of paying an attourney and not being fought for……while fighting a vindictive situation with my children as a GREAT DAD I asked for an explanation stating that if I did not hear anything as ai had been I wanted to discontinue services and be refunded via message inside of the client portal, I THEN was given a response…..but not with accountability, not with a plan of action, not to communicate any valuable evidence or structured plan of action, but to speak downward of me on the “dismal” months of non-payment……….ultimately this attourney demanded I paid him his past due amount, in addition to totals for mediations that hadn't even been had yet to avoid him WITHDRAWING. Needless to say I attended the mediation PRO SE, paid the mediator directly. I’m now on maximum state mandated child support and standard visitation for the children I equally raised because the relationship did not work out with their mother…finally divorced none the less. All of the evidence in the world to fight that good fight never presented, never saw a represented court setting, money just wasted and thank GOD I demanded a standard or it could have been MUCH MUCH worse financially. Contracted with this attourney on 5/24/2024….attourney withdrew as of 11/5/2024, yet they have still attempted to withdraw payment from my bank as of latest, 12/19/2024…….this was my SECOND attourney over a course of what I recall as a 3 year nightmare……I can confidently say, this is whats wrong with the family law system! Will edit with photo documentation when I have time.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Colton king
My wife and I had to deal with CPS so we hired Valerie to represent us, and we are so happy we did! She laid out a plan, kept us in the loop, and got us through the case with a favorable outcome. Well worth the money! Thank you so much!
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16 Feb, 2025 by Tracy byrd
Best in the business!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Arnece roberts
If I could give 0 stars I would. Absolutely THE problem when it comes to attorneys this day and age.(maybe it’s just with men). If you want a game where you're being strung along and billed forever playing the rollercoaster game with you and your children's life instead of evidence being presented in a costly/timely and empathetic manner THIS IS YOUR GUY. Mr. Bancroft, i just got off the phone with you where you hung up on me stating that I’m threatening you. Get over your ego and realize that your business as a practicing attourney needs realignment. I wrote you about a standing invoice you provided totaling to less than the amount that Ive paid to you months prior with no response. After speaking to your paralegal, then being transferred to your “billing dept.” and speaking to them I was provided with a newer invoice…..with newer charges, where whomever was working before had originally just simply “forgot to send me the invoice”….what a convenient coincidence. After speaking with her, I was transferred to you where I had a conversation with your ego. Well, from the little guy(s) down here Mr. Bancroft, do whats right and fabricating invoices to skip out on paying balances owed on any moneys paid to you for the services that you DID NOT PROVIDE are just not that. Client paid $1750 in retainer fees(half of your 3500 to get the case started) and had to chase said attourney down for enquiries with little to no communications outside of ones that were initiated by me/client, INCLUDING in person conversation with YOU where I unexpectedly paid a visit to your office in August after I could not successfully contact anyone and asked about a status of my case. You did not recall my case by name until we went to your office and you searched my name.(keep in mind, this is three months after contracting). Attourney invoicing per attourney-client portals all state work for balance of $753, with latest payment from client being $631 in October.(this never happened, only payment made was the initial one and didn't make another due to subpar and in my opinion MALPRACTICAL, I'm aware that isn't an official word, service). After a few months of calling and majorly being placed on hold, back and forth’s with promises of returned calls or motions with paralegals, multiples of them and finally being frustrated with the reality of paying an attourney and not being fought for……while fighting a vindictive situation with my children as a GREAT DAD I asked for an explanation stating that if I did not hear anything as ai had been I wanted to discontinue services and be refunded via message inside of the client portal, I THEN was given a response…..but not with accountability, not with a plan of action, not to communicate any valuable evidence or structured plan of action, but to speak downward of me on the “dismal” months of non-payment……….ultimately this attourney demanded I paid him his past due amount, in addition to totals for mediations that hadn't even been had yet to avoid him WITHDRAWING. Needless to say I attended the mediation PRO SE, paid the mediator directly. I’m now on maximum state mandated child support and standard visitation for the children I equally raised because the relationship did not work out with their mother…finally divorced none the less. All of the evidence in the world to fight that good fight never presented, never saw a represented court setting, money just wasted and thank GOD I demanded a standard or it could have been MUCH MUCH worse financially. Contracted with this attourney on 5/24/2024….attourney withdrew as of 11/5/2024, yet they have still attempted to withdraw payment from my bank as of latest, 12/19/2024…….this was my SECOND attourney over a course of what I recall as a 3 year nightmare……I can confidently say, this is whats wrong with the family law system! Will edit with photo documentation when I have time.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Colton king
My wife and I had to deal with CPS so we hired Valerie to represent us, and we are so happy we did! She laid out a plan, kept us in the loop, and got us through the case with a favorable outcome. Well worth the money! Thank you so much!
Read more
19 Sep, 2024 by Charlie uresti
Lisa was very attentive to our concerns when it came to handling our father's estate. Her knowledge of the law is impressive. She addresses all the issues. I have referred her to several of my friends and one of them said she looks so sweet but she's really a tiger!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Bobby hernandez
Lisa was awesome. She was able to help me set our company contracts in place. As a small company this is one of the headaches we deal with and she made it easy to deal with. Highly recommend.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Jeff tom
Lisa was meticulous in ensuring my will accurately reflected my wishes. Her knowledge and compassion made the process manageable. Look no further if you need a trustworthy attorney to handle your will or probate matters.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Juan gutierrez
Can't say enough about him. Great experience. Calmed my nerves down. Explained everything perfectly and thoroughly. Got me way better results than I expected going in. Would recommend him to any and everybody! Thank you Mr. Rodriguez
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03 Oct, 2024 by Monica olguin
DAVID RORIGUEZ IS WONDERFUL ATTORNEY I WOULD REFER FREINDS AND FAMILY
TO HIM. MR. RODRIGUEZ AND HIS SECRETARY ARE VERY PROMT AND PROFESSIONAL.
IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR AN UNDERSTANDING ATTORNEY THAT LISTENS TO YOU AND YOUR NEEDS GO TO MR. RODRIGUEZ AND HIS LAW FIRM, THEY ARE AMAZING.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Jojo moomoo
Did research on a few different lawyers to assist in my divorce. Had a great pre discussion and found to be the best fit for my particular situation. Smooth, easy, professional and great communication.
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16 Dec, 2015 by Scott
I highly endorse Marlene since she handled my divorce last year. If you’re looking for a high-priced lawyer with a big staff and fancy office, she’s not for you. However, if you’re looking for someone humble, caring, and compassionate yet realistic and honest (she’ll be straight with you and tell you when and why something isn’t worth your/her time (her time = your money)), someone who sees the big picture (she considers the present and the future, and as an atty and CPA, she factors in legal, financial, and tax implications), and someone who communicates with you quickly and often and is reasonably priced, then Marlene is right for you. I keep in touch with Marlene and consider her a friend, and I believe that may be the strongest endorsement a client can have for an attorney.
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30 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Marlene is an excellent attorney. Rare combination of intelligent and smartness.She was able to read in between the lines and analyze the case very well. She was phenomenal.Always maintained a high level of communication and that kept me in comfort zone. I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking legal for arbitration, mediation, or trial issues.
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03 Aug, 2013 by Antonia
Marelene represented me very well. She handled my divorce case and kept me from loosing my home which I was going to just give up. She sincerely cared and acted in my best interest, and also helped me to get other benefits for my disability. Overall I think she did a very good job and I would recommend her. She is a very experienced lawyer in family law.
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20 Oct, 2024 by Jose hernandez
08 Mar, 2024 by Alann torres
Our attorney for all our business needs. Professional and practical. Mr. Steven B. Treu has been a tactical master and a bulldog when needed. His counsel is valued.
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14 Jan, 2024 by Roger schultz
20 Oct, 2024 by Jose hernandez
08 Mar, 2024 by Alann torres
Our attorney for all our business needs. Professional and practical. Mr. Steven B. Treu has been a tactical master and a bulldog when needed. His counsel is valued.
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14 Jan, 2024 by Roger schultz
20 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
This attorney should never practice law. Her actions not only ruin families’ lives, but her lack of understanding of law and fairness makes her an unfit judge and attorney. She demonstrates clear biases, both racial and financial, which undermine justice and integrity.
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27 Apr, 2012 by D. san antonio
Ms. Walsh would not return my phone calls. I had to hire another attorney, due to her lack of communication and not working on my case.
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18 Feb, 2012 by Debbie
Ms. Walsh is the utmost professional. Extremely knowledgable in her feild. Straight up. Great guidance. Allows you to participate. Makes you think and look at the total picture - end result. Wants what is the best for all involved - pulls no punches - She has worked on a divorce and years later child custody and personal injury - car accident!
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05 Mar, 2015 by Betty vance
Mr. Trudeau was the mediator in our case and we are very appreciative of his concern. He patiently explained the mediation process, and told us of our rights. It was the first time either of us had been in this situation.
We left the mediation feeling that Mr. Trudeau had been fair and honest.
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04 Mar, 2015 by Lisa
Mr. Trudeau mediated a personal injury case for our family yesterday - he was amazingly professional, thoroughly understood all the issues and treated my elderly parents with respect and kindness. He is clearly gifted - for nervous clients, one could not have hoped for a better outcome. Both sides approached the mediation process in a calm and civil manner and I am confident that all parties feel a fair result was reached by a GREAT MEDIATOR!!!
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17 Jun, 2013 by Michael
He had my case in his office for many months and never realized the case had never been set for trial despite the fact that opposing counsel had asked him about the trial setting many times. When he realized he'd committed malpractice he held in one hand a hold-harmless agreement he demanded I sign and my case file in the other, saying he wouldn't allow my case to continue if I didn't sign his release. Some of the papers in the file needed to be filed within one hour due to a time limit issue, so he craftily had me over a barrel.
Stay away.
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16 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Meet with Ms. Castro for a divorce, she talked a good talk. After paying 3k retainers fee heard nothing for months. I called and talked to Pat who said there was a court date set and Laura wanted to meet before that date. Never heard a word on the meeting date, then the friday before court i get another call from Pat saying Laura will call you sunday. I was think weird the day before court on a sunday, she did call at 5:00 pm. I next day at court she was was in organized and wanted me do things i had already done. Nothing was accomplished and cost me 1,000 for her to show up.
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28 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Ms Castro because on our initial talk she said everything you want to hear from an attorney. She really Sold me. After that she was unresponsive for months in my case. Several times I poured my heart out to her in many emails about things currently happening in my case & nothing but crickets for a good few months Eventually to my surprise ms castro replied to one of my emails and for the 1st time in a long time she actually seemed interested. then Next email I got was an itemized bill detailing the charges & I was quickly confused that the bill was at 2300 dollars I couldn't believe it!! How!! I almost never talk to her!!Well apparently, every single email she sends to you or anyone regarding case, or her paralegals sends to you or on your behalf will cost you. every email was $75-250 drafting a temporary order another 700.00. They easily eat up your retainer and then send you a bill for the other things that haven't happened. appearing in court, hearings, drafting other orders ETC. At the end I received a bill for an additional 2000. on top of the 2500 I had given her upon hiring her. For BARE MINIMUM WORK. She doesn't care about her clients or the outcome of the case. She just cares about how much money she can get out of you. Be aware.
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03 Feb, 2021 by Kellie dee perry
08 Nov, 2024 by Suzette
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We had a wonderful experience working with Marisa Aragon at Huron Law. She was an outstanding attorney—knowledgeable, communicative, and made the entire process painless. Marisa kept us informed at each step, making everything feel seamless. We are truly grateful for her support and highly recommend her to anyone in need of legal assistance. Tim and Monique Bourgeois
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09 Sep, 2024 by Lizbeth cordero (liz)
If i can put 0 star i will she is the worst lawyer ever also for amicus she cant put herself on the middle since everything start she took a side
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06 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I read the posts on here and as bad as it sounds, I can assure you your experience will be far worse than you could ever imagine. 40 or so years in practice and hasn't made it above 1 star. I'm not a bit surprised
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12 Jun, 2023 by Lora cantu
Didn't help me 😭 n what I needed didn't even give me a chance to explain my situation
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04 Jan, 2023 by Drew h
I don’t see how this guy is in business. He exudes apathy. Every interaction I’ve had with him just seemed like he couldn’t care less or was bothered. I felt like a huge imposition just from contacting him to consult on my case.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Vernell boson
Nice environment and safe.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Arlene 210-309-0437
Took my $1200.00...Hired her to help Me to get custody of my 3 year old grandson...I go to Court on 1-23-14...she called me and said she has health Issues and will not be practicing law anymore...but will Not refund my money....so I can hire another attorney...Amazing
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25 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr Segovia handled my case a few years ago and after paying retainer and upfront fees, he was very hard to get a hold of. He kept asking for more money and paralegal did all the work. I was the plaintiff in the case and the respondents attorney was the one that did the final decree which I did not agree with.
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16 Oct, 2023 by Amy
This attorney got away with $10,000 of mine which I am currently trying to recoup in a lawsuit. This attorney had no idea what she was doing and was a bad case of ineffective assistance of counsel. She attempted to withdraw from my case in court because she was afraid and had no idea what she was doing and made me look like an idiot. I would not hire this attorney, she promises things she can’t deliver.
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22 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Ms. McLaughlin - was wretched she was the worst attorney I have ever encountered, she had her noise to stuck up in the air to pay attention. She was annoying and rude and I would never recommended her to anyone. I'm only sorry I had to give her 1 star because she didn't deserve it.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Mediation Lawyer Can Do for You
A mediation lawyer specializes in resolving disputes outside of the courtroom through a process called mediation. Mediation involves a neutral third-party mediator who helps the disputing parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Mediation lawyers can represent clients in various matters, including divorce, business disputes, employment conflicts, contract issues, personal injury claims, and more.
Unlike litigation, mediation is a less adversarial and more cost-effective way to settle disputes, often leading to faster resolutions and preserving relationships between the parties involved.
When Should I Hire a Mediation Lawyer?
Consider hiring a mediation lawyer when you’re involved in a dispute and want to avoid the time, expense, and stress of going to court. Common reasons to hire a mediation lawyer include:
- Divorce or child custody disputes: A mediation lawyer can help you reach a fair settlement on issues like property division, alimony, and parenting arrangements without going to court.
- Business or contract disputes: For disagreements such as contract disputes, partnership conflicts, or intellectual property issues, a mediation lawyer can assist in resolving the matter through negotiation.
- Employment disputes: Issues like wrongful termination, discrimination, or wage disputes can be addressed through mediation to find common ground and avoid lawsuits.
- Personal injury cases: Mediation can help both parties agree on compensation in cases like car accidents or slip-and-fall claims without a prolonged court battle.
- Property disputes: Disputes over property ownership, landlord-tenant issues, or boundary disagreements can be settled more amicably through mediation.
- Family or inheritance disputes: Mediation can help resolve conflicts over wills or trusts without further dividing the family.
What Does a Mediation Lawyer Do?
A mediation lawyer provides a range of services to help clients resolve disputes through negotiation and mutual agreement. Their responsibilities often include:
- Representing your interests: Acting as your advocate during mediation to ensure your rights are protected and you understand your legal options.
- Preparing for mediation: Reviewing the facts of the case, gathering necessary documents, and advising you on potential resolutions.
- Facilitating communication: Helping to facilitate open and constructive dialogue between parties to clarify points of contention.
- Negotiating settlements: Assisting in negotiating fair and balanced settlement terms that are in your best interest.
- Drafting mediation agreements: Preparing the official mediation agreement that outlines the terms of the settlement, which is often legally binding.
- Avoiding litigation: Aiming to reach a settlement that eliminates the need for a court trial, saving time and resources for both parties.
- Handling complex legal issues: Explaining the legal implications of various settlement terms in cases with complicated legal matters.
How Are Mediation Lawyers Paid?
Mediation lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the time involved. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Charging an hourly fee ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on experience and case complexity.
- Flat fee: For simpler mediations, some lawyers may offer a flat fee covering all legal work involved in the process.
- Retainer: In ongoing or complex cases, a retainer may be required as an upfront payment billed against as work progresses.
Discuss fees and payment structures with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand the cost of mediation services.
How Much Does a Mediation Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a mediation lawyer depends on several factors, including the case's complexity, the lawyer’s experience, and the time required to resolve the dispute. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Typically between $150 and $500 per hour.
- Flat fees: For simple mediations, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Total mediation costs: Can vary widely, from $2,000 to $10,000 for straightforward cases, up to $10,000 to $50,000 or more for complex disputes.
Always request a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to understand total expenses.
Top Questions to Ask a Mediation Lawyer
Before hiring a mediation lawyer, consider asking the following questions:
-
What experience do you have with mediation cases like mine?
Ensure the lawyer has relevant experience in handling similar disputes. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify the fee structure and request an estimate based on your specific case. -
What is the likelihood of resolving my case through mediation?
Seek an honest assessment of whether mediation is suitable for your situation. -
How long will the mediation process take?
Inquire about the expected timeline and number of sessions required. -
Will you personally handle my case?
Confirm who will manage your mediation and represent your interests. -
Can we pursue alternative dispute resolution (ADR) if necessary?
Ask about other forms of ADR, such as arbitration, if mediation doesn't resolve the conflict.
How to Check the Credibility of a Mediation Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable mediation lawyer, take the following steps:
- Verify their bar status: Confirm with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed and has no disciplinary history.
- Look for mediation experience: Review their website or professional profile for specialization in mediation and successful case histories.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Check platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google for client feedback.
- Ask for references: Request references from past clients familiar with their mediation skills.
- Check for certifications: Look for certifications from organizations like the American Arbitration Association (AAA) or the Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR).
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To maximize the effectiveness of your initial meeting, bring the following:
- Relevant documents: Any materials related to the dispute, such as contracts, emails, financial records, or court filings.
- List of key issues: A detailed list of the main points of contention that need resolution.
- Timeline of events: A chronological account of events leading up to the dispute, including prior resolution attempts.
- Goals for the mediation: Be prepared to discuss your desired outcomes and areas where you're willing to compromise.
- Questions for the lawyer: Any queries about the mediation process, fees, or their approach to dispute resolution.
Being well-prepared will help the lawyer assess your case effectively and provide the best possible advice for resolving your dispute through mediation.
