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24 Feb, 2017 by Brandy
Michael Smith is a class A attorney. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a family attorney. He is very up front and honest and will do anything to help you. I thank the lord everyday that I found him.
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30 Dec, 2016 by Rc
Very knowledgeable attorney. He beat out a team of attorneys from a much more expensive firm. He was more fair in his billing practices than other attorneys I have used.
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19 Jun, 2015 by M.j.
I was referred to Todd Smith by another attorney, so it was sheer luck that I ended up with him. I had no idea about what to expect or what to ask with regard to hiring an attorney for my potential case. I had no worries though, as the entire experience was 100% positive. I quickly became reassured and confident that I was getting the best possible legal advice and representation, due to the professionalism, attention to detail, and experience exhibited by Todd and his staff. Through every step of the process, I was kept informed, I got immediate response to my questions, and I was always given a timeline of what to expect, and when. If I needed an explanation regarding legalese in a document or discussion, it was done with patience and respect towards me. I always felt that Todd and his staff were accessible to me at any time. I would recommend Todd Smith to ensure that you have the best chance for a good outcome, whether your issue is settled out-of-court or resolved in the courtroom.
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18 Mar, 2016 by Mario
Mr. Smotherman helped me get permanent and full custody of my daughter and I will forever be grateful. Words cannot express how thankful I am to this man and his God given abilities but I will try. As an African-American male trying to get custody of my then 4 year old daughter, the odds were stacked against me. However, Smotherman took the time to listen were others just blew me off. He was able to build and executed one of the best defenses I have ever seen. The case centered around the facts that the mother was actively alienating me from my daughter's life by hiding her from me during my visitations weekends. Every 1st, 3rd and 5th weekend I would drive form Odessa, TX to Dallas, TX, a 6 hour drive one way, just to see my daughter. I had never missed a visitation or a child support payment. The mother was even harassing the schools to keep me from seeing my daughter at lunch time. The mother even had me removed from being able to see her at her after school daycare were I was tutoring my daughter and helping her with school work. The mother also created false allegations that my wife and I were physically and sexually abusive to my daughter and all these allegation where proven false.The mother was later convicted of felony custodial interference. Throughout the entire two year process (the Judge dying in the case, several reset dates and having to deal with a defense attorney that would do anything to win and in my opinion no professional at times) Smotherman never lost his composure and remained a man of integrity even when faced with shady dealings from the defense. He remained true to his Christian identity....He was fair and timely with his responses...and always professional. Mr. Smotherman is the type of person who has a passion for justice and helping others. This case had so many sides and it was so deep (before Smotherman the case had already taken a year) that literally no other attorney would take my case. I prayed for someone to help me and spent my days calling and writing attorneys only to receive countless "No"s. However, Mr. Smotherman said, "Yes" and that has made all the difference. I cannot say thank you enough. Today, marks the day the child custody case is officially closed and the final orders have been signed. This man has given me my life back and a chance to be a full-time father to my daughter something I did not have the privilege of having. I always promised myself that when I had kids, I would not be like my dad, an absentee father, I was going to be there for my kids and now I can keep that promise to my daughter and myself.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Idris shamad
My experience with this firm was absolutely incredible. This law firm helped our family in our great time of need and helped us to be treated fairly in our case. I would give ten stars if I could and I highly recommend their services! Not only were we treated with respect, but we were also treated as a friend and felt our case was a top concern the entire time! Thank you so much Brian Hargrove law for all you have done for our family!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth cortez
Giving Chandler 5stars he’s amazing! But his paralegal Addi I’m afraid is not she is very rude and disrespectful. She tells me not to listen to my Supportive family and my friends. my case Is very sensitive. Chandler has been very nice and very helpful even though he very busy.. but Addi every time I talk to her and ask why I don’t have a court order drawn up for my court Hearing. It was in April months ago it just doesn’t make sense why nothing has drawn up yet. My family and friends tell me that does not make sense to keep asking Addi or Eli to get me the court order so I can get visitation with my daughter. My ex pretty much took her at birth after I had her and has not been letting me see her. I feel Let down by addi and I hope Chandler Can see through her and find a new paralegal. Eli his other paralegal is very nice. Haven’t had a problem with her yet. And Chandler is a great attorney he’s helping me with two Very sensitive cases. I’m frustrated that I don’t have my court order drawn up and I can’t see my baby She’s only three years old.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Kam
Mr. Hargrove and his team were very helpful from day one!!
In the beginning this process was so overwhelming I didn’t know what to do or who to call. After getting in contact with Mr.Hargrove he assured me to sit back relax and allow him and his team to work their magic. And they did just that!
This process was smooth and simple thanks to Mr. Hargrove!
10/10 would recommend!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
dOES NOT TAKE CARE OF BUSINESS ,EVEN THO HE SAYS HE DID. DOES NOT REMEMBER THINGS YOU TELL HIM FROM ONE WEEK TO THE NEXT.DOES NOT LIVE BY ATTORNEYS RULES.DRAGS HIS FEET.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Idris shamad
My experience with this firm was absolutely incredible. This law firm helped our family in our great time of need and helped us to be treated fairly in our case. I would give ten stars if I could and I highly recommend their services! Not only were we treated with respect, but we were also treated as a friend and felt our case was a top concern the entire time! Thank you so much Brian Hargrove law for all you have done for our family!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth cortez
Giving Chandler 5stars he’s amazing! But his paralegal Addi I’m afraid is not she is very rude and disrespectful. She tells me not to listen to my Supportive family and my friends. my case Is very sensitive. Chandler has been very nice and very helpful even though he very busy.. but Addi every time I talk to her and ask why I don’t have a court order drawn up for my court Hearing. It was in April months ago it just doesn’t make sense why nothing has drawn up yet. My family and friends tell me that does not make sense to keep asking Addi or Eli to get me the court order so I can get visitation with my daughter. My ex pretty much took her at birth after I had her and has not been letting me see her. I feel Let down by addi and I hope Chandler Can see through her and find a new paralegal. Eli his other paralegal is very nice. Haven’t had a problem with her yet. And Chandler is a great attorney he’s helping me with two Very sensitive cases. I’m frustrated that I don’t have my court order drawn up and I can’t see my baby She’s only three years old.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Dawn bransky
Friendly, professional, and down to earth team. I use them for both my personal and business legal services. Have referred them to family and friends.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Blessed
Mr Martinez helped me with my case.
Successfully on my favor.
I thank him and grateful for life for his help as an attorney. I recommend him to everyone.
He has taken care of my needs as my attorney and his professionalism is the best.
I am forever grateful and thank God for having helped me to find him.
He is one in a million.
Sincere, Professional, Smart, Knowledgable,
There is none one like him.
Thank you Michael
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02 Jun, 2024 by Ting sun
Great attorney office, highly recommended to anyone who needs them!
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14 Oct, 2024 by Shaira waziullah
I was hit by a commercial truck last year. Dealing with the accident was awful, but I am so thankful to the Eric Reyes Law Firm for their wonderful work. Beatriz was very patient and kept me updated every step of the way. I would definitely recommend this firm to anyone who needs assistance with their personal injury case.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Samuel trevino
La abogada Beatriz fue muy eficiente con nuetrso caso. Matubo excelente comunicaccion pendiente al accidente. 100% recomendada.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Erika villarreal
Beatriz fue una gran bendicion, nos ayudo con todo el proceso, fue eficaz y siempre mantubo excellent comunicaccion. 100% recomendada y habla Español. Thank you Beatriz for helping us and guiding us through the process of our accident, you and the firm are amazing, we are forever grateful.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Alexandra taylor
This firm has had several opportunities to do a great job and just hasn't. Although they are friendly, they aren't responsive or effective.
First opportunity, revising a very simple will that this same firm had developed 7 years ago. Typo's and various errors, back and forth with a paralegal for over a month, and during the phone call to finalize, the paralegal did not even listen to the questions being asked, she just talked over my questions. The result was to just notarize what they had developed and take the document to another attorney for review.
Second opportunity - we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a Friday evening for advice on a potential criminal matter. A person was being detained and we needed timely advice. We contacted the office around 9pm on one phone number, and a man who barely spoke english took our information and said an attorney would contact us soon. At 2 am we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a different number, and a woman took our information and said someone would contact us shortly. At 5am we used the text method to ask for assistance. Thankfully we did find an attorney to provide advice in the situation but it wasn't Bailey & Galyen. This firm never returned my calls, and finally sent an email on the following Tuesday.
If you need actual representation in a timely manner, this is not the attorney to call.
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17 Sep, 2024 by I win
When I first started my journey with social security nothing seamed to go right. Then my husband called Bailey & Galyen. There was communication from the very beginning. My phone calls were always answered with a pleasant attitude all the time. Kathryn Mousa was more than just a paralegal she became a friend. my attorney Ian Croall gave me hope, and acknowledged that I actually could get disability. I would refer anyone to Bailey & Galen. Thank you guys so much for helping me with one of the most important time of my life.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Ava dang
18 Sep, 2024 by Alexandra taylor
This firm has had several opportunities to do a great job and just hasn't. Although they are friendly, they aren't responsive or effective.
First opportunity, revising a very simple will that this same firm had developed 7 years ago. Typo's and various errors, back and forth with a paralegal for over a month, and during the phone call to finalize, the paralegal did not even listen to the questions being asked, she just talked over my questions. The result was to just notarize what they had developed and take the document to another attorney for review.
Second opportunity - we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a Friday evening for advice on a potential criminal matter. A person was being detained and we needed timely advice. We contacted the office around 9pm on one phone number, and a man who barely spoke english took our information and said an attorney would contact us soon. At 2 am we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a different number, and a woman took our information and said someone would contact us shortly. At 5am we used the text method to ask for assistance. Thankfully we did find an attorney to provide advice in the situation but it wasn't Bailey & Galyen. This firm never returned my calls, and finally sent an email on the following Tuesday.
If you need actual representation in a timely manner, this is not the attorney to call.
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17 Sep, 2024 by I win
When I first started my journey with social security nothing seamed to go right. Then my husband called Bailey & Galyen. There was communication from the very beginning. My phone calls were always answered with a pleasant attitude all the time. Kathryn Mousa was more than just a paralegal she became a friend. my attorney Ian Croall gave me hope, and acknowledged that I actually could get disability. I would refer anyone to Bailey & Galen. Thank you guys so much for helping me with one of the most important time of my life.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Ava dang
18 Sep, 2024 by Alexandra taylor
This firm has had several opportunities to do a great job and just hasn't. Although they are friendly, they aren't responsive or effective.
First opportunity, revising a very simple will that this same firm had developed 7 years ago. Typo's and various errors, back and forth with a paralegal for over a month, and during the phone call to finalize, the paralegal did not even listen to the questions being asked, she just talked over my questions. The result was to just notarize what they had developed and take the document to another attorney for review.
Second opportunity - we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a Friday evening for advice on a potential criminal matter. A person was being detained and we needed timely advice. We contacted the office around 9pm on one phone number, and a man who barely spoke english took our information and said an attorney would contact us soon. At 2 am we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a different number, and a woman took our information and said someone would contact us shortly. At 5am we used the text method to ask for assistance. Thankfully we did find an attorney to provide advice in the situation but it wasn't Bailey & Galyen. This firm never returned my calls, and finally sent an email on the following Tuesday.
If you need actual representation in a timely manner, this is not the attorney to call.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by I win
When I first started my journey with social security nothing seamed to go right. Then my husband called Bailey & Galyen. There was communication from the very beginning. My phone calls were always answered with a pleasant attitude all the time. Kathryn Mousa was more than just a paralegal she became a friend. my attorney Ian Croall gave me hope, and acknowledged that I actually could get disability. I would refer anyone to Bailey & Galen. Thank you guys so much for helping me with one of the most important time of my life.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Ava dang
18 Sep, 2024 by Alexandra taylor
This firm has had several opportunities to do a great job and just hasn't. Although they are friendly, they aren't responsive or effective.
First opportunity, revising a very simple will that this same firm had developed 7 years ago. Typo's and various errors, back and forth with a paralegal for over a month, and during the phone call to finalize, the paralegal did not even listen to the questions being asked, she just talked over my questions. The result was to just notarize what they had developed and take the document to another attorney for review.
Second opportunity - we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a Friday evening for advice on a potential criminal matter. A person was being detained and we needed timely advice. We contacted the office around 9pm on one phone number, and a man who barely spoke english took our information and said an attorney would contact us soon. At 2 am we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a different number, and a woman took our information and said someone would contact us shortly. At 5am we used the text method to ask for assistance. Thankfully we did find an attorney to provide advice in the situation but it wasn't Bailey & Galyen. This firm never returned my calls, and finally sent an email on the following Tuesday.
If you need actual representation in a timely manner, this is not the attorney to call.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by I win
When I first started my journey with social security nothing seamed to go right. Then my husband called Bailey & Galyen. There was communication from the very beginning. My phone calls were always answered with a pleasant attitude all the time. Kathryn Mousa was more than just a paralegal she became a friend. my attorney Ian Croall gave me hope, and acknowledged that I actually could get disability. I would refer anyone to Bailey & Galen. Thank you guys so much for helping me with one of the most important time of my life.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Ava dang
18 Sep, 2024 by Alexandra taylor
This firm has had several opportunities to do a great job and just hasn't. Although they are friendly, they aren't responsive or effective.
First opportunity, revising a very simple will that this same firm had developed 7 years ago. Typo's and various errors, back and forth with a paralegal for over a month, and during the phone call to finalize, the paralegal did not even listen to the questions being asked, she just talked over my questions. The result was to just notarize what they had developed and take the document to another attorney for review.
Second opportunity - we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a Friday evening for advice on a potential criminal matter. A person was being detained and we needed timely advice. We contacted the office around 9pm on one phone number, and a man who barely spoke english took our information and said an attorney would contact us soon. At 2 am we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a different number, and a woman took our information and said someone would contact us shortly. At 5am we used the text method to ask for assistance. Thankfully we did find an attorney to provide advice in the situation but it wasn't Bailey & Galyen. This firm never returned my calls, and finally sent an email on the following Tuesday.
If you need actual representation in a timely manner, this is not the attorney to call.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by I win
When I first started my journey with social security nothing seamed to go right. Then my husband called Bailey & Galyen. There was communication from the very beginning. My phone calls were always answered with a pleasant attitude all the time. Kathryn Mousa was more than just a paralegal she became a friend. my attorney Ian Croall gave me hope, and acknowledged that I actually could get disability. I would refer anyone to Bailey & Galen. Thank you guys so much for helping me with one of the most important time of my life.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Ava dang
18 Sep, 2024 by Alexandra taylor
This firm has had several opportunities to do a great job and just hasn't. Although they are friendly, they aren't responsive or effective.
First opportunity, revising a very simple will that this same firm had developed 7 years ago. Typo's and various errors, back and forth with a paralegal for over a month, and during the phone call to finalize, the paralegal did not even listen to the questions being asked, she just talked over my questions. The result was to just notarize what they had developed and take the document to another attorney for review.
Second opportunity - we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a Friday evening for advice on a potential criminal matter. A person was being detained and we needed timely advice. We contacted the office around 9pm on one phone number, and a man who barely spoke english took our information and said an attorney would contact us soon. At 2 am we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a different number, and a woman took our information and said someone would contact us shortly. At 5am we used the text method to ask for assistance. Thankfully we did find an attorney to provide advice in the situation but it wasn't Bailey & Galyen. This firm never returned my calls, and finally sent an email on the following Tuesday.
If you need actual representation in a timely manner, this is not the attorney to call.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by I win
When I first started my journey with social security nothing seamed to go right. Then my husband called Bailey & Galyen. There was communication from the very beginning. My phone calls were always answered with a pleasant attitude all the time. Kathryn Mousa was more than just a paralegal she became a friend. my attorney Ian Croall gave me hope, and acknowledged that I actually could get disability. I would refer anyone to Bailey & Galen. Thank you guys so much for helping me with one of the most important time of my life.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Ava dang
18 Sep, 2024 by Alexandra taylor
This firm has had several opportunities to do a great job and just hasn't. Although they are friendly, they aren't responsive or effective.
First opportunity, revising a very simple will that this same firm had developed 7 years ago. Typo's and various errors, back and forth with a paralegal for over a month, and during the phone call to finalize, the paralegal did not even listen to the questions being asked, she just talked over my questions. The result was to just notarize what they had developed and take the document to another attorney for review.
Second opportunity - we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a Friday evening for advice on a potential criminal matter. A person was being detained and we needed timely advice. We contacted the office around 9pm on one phone number, and a man who barely spoke english took our information and said an attorney would contact us soon. At 2 am we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a different number, and a woman took our information and said someone would contact us shortly. At 5am we used the text method to ask for assistance. Thankfully we did find an attorney to provide advice in the situation but it wasn't Bailey & Galyen. This firm never returned my calls, and finally sent an email on the following Tuesday.
If you need actual representation in a timely manner, this is not the attorney to call.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by I win
When I first started my journey with social security nothing seamed to go right. Then my husband called Bailey & Galyen. There was communication from the very beginning. My phone calls were always answered with a pleasant attitude all the time. Kathryn Mousa was more than just a paralegal she became a friend. my attorney Ian Croall gave me hope, and acknowledged that I actually could get disability. I would refer anyone to Bailey & Galen. Thank you guys so much for helping me with one of the most important time of my life.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Ava dang
18 Sep, 2024 by Alexandra taylor
This firm has had several opportunities to do a great job and just hasn't. Although they are friendly, they aren't responsive or effective.
First opportunity, revising a very simple will that this same firm had developed 7 years ago. Typo's and various errors, back and forth with a paralegal for over a month, and during the phone call to finalize, the paralegal did not even listen to the questions being asked, she just talked over my questions. The result was to just notarize what they had developed and take the document to another attorney for review.
Second opportunity - we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a Friday evening for advice on a potential criminal matter. A person was being detained and we needed timely advice. We contacted the office around 9pm on one phone number, and a man who barely spoke english took our information and said an attorney would contact us soon. At 2 am we contacted Bailey & Galyen on a different number, and a woman took our information and said someone would contact us shortly. At 5am we used the text method to ask for assistance. Thankfully we did find an attorney to provide advice in the situation but it wasn't Bailey & Galyen. This firm never returned my calls, and finally sent an email on the following Tuesday.
If you need actual representation in a timely manner, this is not the attorney to call.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by I win
When I first started my journey with social security nothing seamed to go right. Then my husband called Bailey & Galyen. There was communication from the very beginning. My phone calls were always answered with a pleasant attitude all the time. Kathryn Mousa was more than just a paralegal she became a friend. my attorney Ian Croall gave me hope, and acknowledged that I actually could get disability. I would refer anyone to Bailey & Galen. Thank you guys so much for helping me with one of the most important time of my life.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Ava dang
07 Mar, 2024 by Hassan charaf
Professional services and exceptional customer service
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08 Mar, 2023 by Elma santos
Never answered back!
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10 Nov, 2022 by Kevin taylor
Very helpful
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05 Sep, 2024 by Marshall stewart
I found Earl Hargrave knowledgeable, cordial, a very good listener, and a quick study on my particular issue(s).
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09 Jul, 2024 by Cheryl koepp
Hargrave Law firm is extremely helpful, knowledgeable, kind staff and just all around pleasant to work with, I highly recommend them!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Steven housewright
Very personal, very professional, and thought only of us and what we need to do to take care of our family. God bless and and grateful for Hargrave Law!
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05 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Best there is! Professional, caring and well respected. I would recommend him to anyone looking for an attorney who cares.
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16 Feb, 2016 by Samuel
Mr. Hughey not only was able to get all my citations in one county dismissed but also saved me $750.00 in surcharges in another county. Huge savings with this man. I recommend him to anyone!! Thank you Mr.Hughey
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07 Oct, 2015 by Ivan
Hired him to help me with a questionable traffic violation, and Yes, his office moved fast and efficiently. Keep in mind the process takes time, no need to call him daily or weekly for updates. After a month I planned on calling them, but they actually called me just before that 30-day personal deadline I set for myself. Gave me an update, and perhaps 3 more weeks after that I got their email stating all violations were dismissed! I hope not to need a lawyer again, but if I do, I'm hiring Harris Hughey again.
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08 Dec, 2015 by Karen
Joan is very professional, caring, detail oriented, and has no problem explaining exactly what you can expect as things progress. In my particular case, Joan has helped me with workers' compensation, guardianship, estate, financial, medical, tax, social security, and family issues. Joan is committed to making sure everything is handled to your satisfaction, so you can lessen your stress. She answers all questions, or will help guide you to find out what you need to know. In my case, Joan has accompanied me to family conference updates on medical progress of a brain injured family member for whom I am now guardian, and he is well cared for in a proper facility. Joan continues to stay in touch throughout the year and checks on how I am and how my ward is progressing. If I had had to accomplish on my own all that Joan has assisted me with, I would be lost and buried in red tape. Joan answers questions promptly, and when she is tied up, will let you know when to expect her attention. She asks specific questions and has been immeasurably helpful in a complicated situation. I highly recommend Joan Durkin.
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17 Oct, 2009 by Bill
Did not know Federal Workers Compensation policies. Did not understand the difference between Reduction In Force and Management Reassignment. Made no attempt to understand the duties of my job or what caused the injuries.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Do for You
A personal injury lawyer specializes in helping individuals who have been physically or emotionally injured due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another party. Whether you've been hurt in a car accident, suffered a slip and fall, or experienced medical malpractice, a personal injury attorney works to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. They can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses.
Personal injury lawyers act as your advocate, navigating the legal system on your behalf and dealing with insurance companies to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. They understand how to handle complex legal matters and help you avoid common pitfalls.
When Should I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Hiring a personal injury lawyer can be beneficial in many situations where you've been harmed due to another's negligence. Some key scenarios include:
- Severe injuries: If you've suffered significant or permanent injuries that result in substantial medical bills, a lawyer can help ensure you are fairly compensated.
- Long-term or permanent disability: Injuries that affect your ability to work or require ongoing medical treatment are complex, and a lawyer can help estimate long-term damages.
- Disputed liability: If the responsible party or their insurance company denies liability for your injury, a lawyer can gather evidence and advocate on your behalf.
- Insurance company lowball offers: Insurers often try to settle personal injury claims for as little as possible. A lawyer can negotiate to get you a fair settlement.
- Medical malpractice claims: Injuries caused by a doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider due to negligence require a personal injury lawyer experienced in medical malpractice law.
- Exposure to hazardous substances: If you've been injured due to exposure to toxins, chemicals, or dangerous substances, a lawyer can help pursue legal action.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process is crucial, especially if you're unsure of the full extent of your injuries or damages.
What Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Do?
A personal injury lawyer provides a wide range of services to guide you through the legal process and maximize your compensation. They can:
- Evaluate your case: A lawyer will assess the strength of your claim and determine whether you have a viable case.
- Investigate the incident: Gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions is key to building a strong case.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: Lawyers handle communications with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement and aren't taken advantage of.
- File a lawsuit if necessary: If a fair settlement can't be reached, the lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court.
- Help calculate damages: This includes medical expenses, lost wages, future medical needs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
- Prepare and file legal documents: Lawyers handle all the paperwork and deadlines associated with your case, including filing motions and discovery requests.
- Represent you at trial: If your case goes to trial, the lawyer will argue your case before a judge and jury to obtain the compensation you deserve.
How Are Personal Injury Lawyers Paid?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win your case, either through settlement or a court judgment. Here’s how it works:
- Contingency fee percentage: The lawyer will take a percentage of the settlement or award, typically between 25% and 40%, depending on the complexity of the case and the stage at which it's resolved.
- Costs and expenses: In addition to the contingency fee, the lawyer may deduct other costs associated with the case, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, and court costs. These expenses are often advanced by the lawyer and repaid out of the settlement.
- No upfront payment: Since the lawyer’s fee is contingent on winning, you usually don’t pay anything upfront.
Always discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during your consultation to avoid surprises.
How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer depends on the specifics of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure. However, since most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, the amount you pay will depend on the outcome of your case. Here are some general guidelines:
- Contingency fees: Typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or award. The percentage may increase if the case goes to trial or requires an appeal.
- Other costs: In addition to the lawyer's fee, you may be responsible for case-related expenses such as expert witness fees, medical record retrieval fees, and court costs. These are often deducted from your settlement, so you won't have to pay out of pocket.
While the cost may seem high, hiring an experienced lawyer can significantly increase the amount you recover, making it a worthwhile investment.
Top Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer
Before hiring a personal injury lawyer, it's essential to ask questions to ensure you’re choosing the right representation. Here are some important questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with personal injury cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has handled cases involving similar injuries or accidents. -
What is your fee structure?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and what percentage they will take from any settlement or award. -
How long will my case take?
While it's hard to predict, a lawyer can give you an estimate based on similar cases they’ve handled. -
How often do you take cases to trial?
Some lawyers prefer to settle quickly, while others are more comfortable going to court if necessary. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior lawyers or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it's important to know who will be managing your claim. -
Do you have references from past clients?
Speaking with past clients can provide valuable insight into the lawyer’s effectiveness and professionalism.
How to Check the Credibility of a Personal Injury Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a credible personal injury lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any history of disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, and Google reviews can provide insight into the lawyer's reputation and client satisfaction.
- Look at their track record: Review their experience with personal injury cases, particularly how many cases they’ve successfully resolved or taken to trial.
- Ask for references: Credible lawyers should be willing to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their work.
- Check professional memberships: Lawyers who are members of respected organizations, like the American Association for Justice (AAJ), often have a solid reputation in the field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first meeting with a personal injury lawyer, prepare the following:
- Detailed account of the accident: Write down everything you remember about the incident, including dates, times, and locations. Include any witnesses or police reports if available.
- Medical records and bills: Bring any documentation of your injuries, treatments, and associated medical costs.
- Insurance information: Provide your insurance details and any communication you’ve had with the other party’s insurance company.
- Employment and income records: If your injury has impacted your ability to work, bring proof of lost wages or reduced earning capacity.
- Photos or videos: If you have photos of the accident scene, your injuries, or property damage, bring them to your consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions to ask, including how the lawyer will handle your case and what you can expect in terms of timeline and outcome.
By preparing thoroughly for your first consultation, you’ll help the lawyer understand your case more quickly and get a better sense of your legal options.
