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08 Nov, 2024 by Will canestaro
I had a wonderful experience working with Mark. He got up to speed quickly, was extremely thoughtful, and found a path to resolution. I would highly recommend him.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Sana
We approached Ms. Ahmed with a very complicated divorce case. It was a devastating severance of a 50 year marriage that completely unanticipated. Culturally, even in this modern and progressive day of age, divorce is not a matter that is commonly experienced, especially within the generation we were dealing with. We are Pakistani and Muslim which brought significant complexities into this case for us and especially for Ms. Ahmed as she navigated through our situation tirelessly first simply to understand all these components. We were really left in the dark by the opposing party, and we could not 'help' Ms. Ahmed much. I know we did not make it easier for her. At every turn we presented her with 'I do not know". We did not have anything in our control, we didn't know where anything was, we could not untangle anything for her. We made her work as challenging, and difficult as it could possibly be. We were completely an utterly in the dark, and that is how we approached her. Yet, she managed us, emotionally, professionally, compassionately, step by step along the way, and investigated our situation from every single angle and then some. This was over a year of harsh struggle and she unwaveringly stood by our side. There were times where we did not want to hear what she wanted to say, but that did not deter her from always being realistic and honest with us. She wouldn't give us one possible outcome, but ten. She did not treat us as a client, but from her communications, from her availabilities, from her constant checking in with us, at every and any hour, we were confident knowing she genuinely cared and treated us as family. All this aside, Ms. Ahmed's knowledge of the law, is impeccable. She is both calm and aggressive, she is both graceful and a beast, she is so strong that even when things are looking impossible, you always see the light through her confidence. Everyone must be wondering did we get the outcome we wanted? Ms. Ahmed did God's work. She not only protected my mother, but protected her legacy and our generations to come. The outcome that other legal professionals prepared us for, the outcome that friends, community, and family told us we would probably get, was not going to be a devastating outcome for us and not one that we could live with. Ms. Ahmed fought hard for us to get us the impossible, and she won...we won. Whatever stone she could un-turn, she did, whatever creative angle she could investigate and research, she did, whatever approach her mind had not considered yet, she found and researched. No matter what the case was looking like, through all the ups and downs, we always found peace in her consistent limitless determination. Before we were able to think of presenting a thought or an idea, she was 100 steps ahead of us. We ended up in court, terrified, sleepless nights, anxieties that led us through 1000 paths of 'what ifs', but she held our hand through all the mess, the complications, and the nonsense. Do not let her calmness or gracefulness, fool you, she is a force of nature. She is one of the strongest most confident women I have ever met. Saying thank you to her is almost embarrassing and we are sure this review is not needed by her. Her reputation precedes her a thousand fold. The intention of this review is for someone that is dealing with an extremely impossible divorce, where there is no hope, when you are flailing around in the universe facing with extreme anxieties, when there seems to be absolutely no hope and no way out. If you need someone to untangle a situation that seems just impossible and are truly looking for a miracle worker; please reach out to Ms. Ahmed. If it is a matter of your life, there is no better hands to put them in. We as a family are always, and will always for our entire lifetime, be ever so grateful for what she has been able to accomplish for us. We truly believe she was an answer to prayers and did divine work and serves as a shield for my mother and our family.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Mary stevenson
I reached out to Aaron Engle Law to seek advice and guidance regarding a long term disability claim. Mr Engle was very thorough and knowledgeable to my situation. He spent all the time I needed to answer all my questions and concerns. He put my mind at ease and guided me to make a decision that was in my best interest. I am truly grateful for his expertise.
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20 Dec, 2017 by Kathleen
December 20, 2017 Dear Jeff and Everyone, What words can I possibly use to express what is in my heart right now. I really lucked out the day Lorinda and I walked into your office. I would of never dreamed what had started out as a business relationship would develop into another “OHANA” (Family) for us. You all are wonderful people and an UNBELIEVABLE LAW FIRM!!! Jeff and Mercedes, without your deft skills, warm style, experienced perspective and your “NO BULLSHIT” attitude; Lorinda and I couldn’t have made it through the most difficult fight of my life and our relationship. You both are “rare gems” that we are very fortunate you were on our side! To Everyone; “Mahalo Nui Loa” (Thank you very much) for recognizing our feelings and needs every time I called or we came into your office. I definitely realize at times it wasn’t very easy for all of you. You all handled it with extreme grace! We both enjoyed the stories you shared with us, your constant reassurance and hard work. It has been truly a blessing to work with all of you! “Aloha nui loa” (Fondest regards) and “Mele Kalikimaka me ka Hau’oli Makahiki Hou” (Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year)! Kathleen Evans & Lorinda Flikkema
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15 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I am very thankful for Jeff and his wonderful staff. They were so courteous, compassionate, kind, caring, understanding and knowledgeable. They were always there for me. Thank you!!!
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13 Oct, 2016 by Susan
I was in an automobile accident and injured my wrist. I received treatment for several months and when a new adjuster came on board to my case he denied my claims and called me a liar. I contacted Mr. Donchez and they handled everything from that point on. Professional, knowledgeable and worked hard to win a settlement in my case.I am grateful Mr. Donchez was on my side! I cannot say enough good things about Donchez Law Firm.
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13 Dec, 2019 by Dana
Mercedes was amazing! It wasn’t a week before the person that hit me had the insurance adjuster out to my work to offer me money. I hadn’t even received treatment, all I wanted to do was feel better and be well. Unfortunately it took two years to get back to somewhat normal. With such a busy job, she took care of everything, requested all the necessary medical records, filed the right documents, I didn’t have to do a thing. Even after we settled on the amount, she was able to negotiate more with my PIP. When she sent me the email, my only comment was that’s great, it wasn’t expected. Hopefully I won’t go through this again, but if I do, I’ll hire her again.
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01 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Very happy with Donchez Law Group. They helped me through a rough time and went out of their way to make my case a very smooth and easy process. I highly recommend them!
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27 Jun, 2017 by Kimberly
I was injured in a car accident. Mercedes Donchez did an excellent job with the whole process of representation, working with multiple auto and health insurance companies to insure the best settlement for the injuries I sustained.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Can Do for You

A medical malpractice lawyer specializes in helping individuals who have been harmed due to the negligence or misconduct of healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, or hospitals. These lawyers assist in cases where a healthcare provider deviates from the accepted standard of care, resulting in injury or death. Medical malpractice cases can involve misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication mistakes, birth injuries, and other forms of medical negligence.

If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to improper medical treatment, a medical malpractice lawyer can help you understand your legal options, file a lawsuit, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.

When Should I Hire a Medical Malpractice Lawyer?

Hiring a medical malpractice lawyer is essential if you’ve been seriously injured due to the negligence of a healthcare provider or institution. Situations where you should seek legal representation include:

  • Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis: If a doctor fails to diagnose or delays diagnosing a medical condition, leading to harm or progression of the illness.
  • Surgical errors: Harm resulting from surgical mistakes such as operating on the wrong site, leaving instruments inside the body, or performing unnecessary procedures.
  • Medication errors: Injuries caused by prescribing the wrong medication or dosage, or mistakes made by pharmacists in dispensing drugs.
  • Birth injuries: Injuries to a newborn due to medical negligence during labor and delivery, such as failing to perform a timely C-section or improper use of delivery instruments.
  • Anesthesia errors: Complications arising from improperly administered anesthesia, which can lead to serious injury or death.
  • Inadequate follow-up or aftercare: Suffering due to lack of proper monitoring or care after a medical procedure, leading to complications.
  • Hospital or nursing home negligence: Harm caused by the negligence of hospital staff, nurses, or administrators who failed to provide adequate care.

Medical malpractice cases are complex, and hiring a lawyer early can help ensure your rights are protected and your case is handled effectively.

What Does a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Do?

A medical malpractice lawyer provides various legal services to help injured patients hold negligent healthcare providers accountable. Their responsibilities include:

  • Evaluating your case: Reviewing medical records and consulting with experts to determine if you have a viable claim based on the standard of care and harm suffered.
  • Filing a lawsuit: Initiating legal action by filing a complaint against the responsible parties in the appropriate court.
  • Gathering evidence: Collecting medical records, expert testimonies, and other relevant evidence to build a strong case.
  • Negotiating with insurance companies: Working to secure a fair settlement that compensates you for your injuries without the need for a trial.
  • Litigating in court: Representing you during trial proceedings if a settlement cannot be reached, presenting evidence and arguing your case.
  • Calculating damages: Assessing the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and future care needs.
  • Handling expert testimony: Coordinating with medical experts who can testify on how the standard of care was breached and how it led to your injuries.

How Are Medical Malpractice Lawyers Paid?

Most medical malpractice lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they recover compensation for you. Key aspects of this payment structure include:

  • Contingency fee percentage: The lawyer's fee is typically between 25% and 40% of the settlement or award.
  • No upfront costs: You do not pay any legal fees unless the lawyer successfully recovers compensation on your behalf.
  • Case expenses: Costs for expert witnesses, medical record retrieval, and court fees may be deducted from your settlement or award in addition to the lawyer's fee.

Always discuss the fee arrangement during your initial consultation to understand your financial obligations.

How Much Does a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a medical malpractice lawyer is usually based on a contingency fee model. General estimates include:

  • Contingency fee: Lawyers typically charge between 25% and 40% of the total recovery amount.
  • Case expenses: Additional costs such as expert witness fees and court expenses can range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the case complexity.

Ensure you receive a clear explanation of all potential fees and expenses before proceeding with your case.

Top Questions to Ask a Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Before hiring a medical malpractice lawyer, consider asking the following questions:

  1. What experience do you have with medical malpractice cases like mine?
    Confirm the lawyer has a successful track record with similar cases.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Understand the contingency fee percentage and any additional costs you may incur.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Seek an honest assessment of your case's strengths and potential challenges.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Get an estimate of the timeline for settling or taking the case to trial.
  5. Will you handle my case personally?
    Ensure you know who will be managing your case and their level of involvement.
  6. Have you worked with expert witnesses?
    Verify the lawyer's experience in collaborating with medical experts essential for your case.

How to Check the Credibility of a Medical Malpractice Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association for their license and any disciplinary actions.
  • Review their experience: Look for specialization in medical malpractice and a history of successful cases.
  • Read client reviews: Consult platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell for testimonials and ratings.
  • Ask for references: Request contact information of previous clients willing to discuss their experience.
  • Check professional affiliations: Membership in organizations like the American Association for Justice (AAJ) indicates a commitment to the field.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To maximize the effectiveness of your initial meeting, bring the following:

  • Medical records: All documents related to your treatment and injury.
  • Evidence of harm: Photos, medical bills, and records of lost wages.
  • Communication records: Any correspondence with healthcare providers or institutions.
  • List of healthcare providers: Names and contact information of all involved medical personnel.
  • Questions for the lawyer: A prepared list to address all your concerns.
  • Timeline of events: A detailed chronology of your medical care and the issues encountered.

Being well-prepared helps the lawyer assess your case accurately and advise you on the best course of action.

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