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19 Feb, 2024 by B a
23 Oct, 2023 by Trina gillard
They are very helpful and understanding and I am very happy I picked them to help me and my daughter
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02 Apr, 2023 by Nicolette vennard
Definitely wouldn’t recommend. I had a slip and fall about 5 years ago… and just now got compensated, didn’t even get that much. In the time it took my injury suit closed out and settled, we went through an entire pandemic, I lost my father and my husband, I had a child, had a stroke, recovered from a stroke fully, was diagnosed with a heart condition and was no longer a minor. I still can’t believe how long it took. When I first called to start speaking with an attorney they said 12-18 months for payment and closure of the case. 5 YEARS later. Here we are. Wow. If you want a shark for an attorney who actually cares about you and your case, I don’t recommend Simon and Simon. Especially cause they took almost 2/3rds of my settlement money after I’ve been suffering for 5 years.
Today, I spoke to a gentleman from Simon and Simon after they had reviewed my review. We were able to have a conversation and spoke about the issues I had put above. He did tell me that he would speak to a few people about a communication issue and try to have that resolved in hopes this would help people in the future using Simon and Simon. As I appreciate the call and conversation about the issues I spoke of, I do not feel as if this review is wrong. I have chosen to keep this review up because even though I had a discussion with a representative, my issues still happened. And I do believe that other people should be made aware and have the opportunity to see how others were treated. I appreciate your time today, however I will not be removing this review. Thank you.
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19 Feb, 2024 by B a
23 Oct, 2023 by Trina gillard
They are very helpful and understanding and I am very happy I picked them to help me and my daughter
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02 Apr, 2023 by Nicolette vennard
Definitely wouldn’t recommend. I had a slip and fall about 5 years ago… and just now got compensated, didn’t even get that much. In the time it took my injury suit closed out and settled, we went through an entire pandemic, I lost my father and my husband, I had a child, had a stroke, recovered from a stroke fully, was diagnosed with a heart condition and was no longer a minor. I still can’t believe how long it took. When I first called to start speaking with an attorney they said 12-18 months for payment and closure of the case. 5 YEARS later. Here we are. Wow. If you want a shark for an attorney who actually cares about you and your case, I don’t recommend Simon and Simon. Especially cause they took almost 2/3rds of my settlement money after I’ve been suffering for 5 years.
Today, I spoke to a gentleman from Simon and Simon after they had reviewed my review. We were able to have a conversation and spoke about the issues I had put above. He did tell me that he would speak to a few people about a communication issue and try to have that resolved in hopes this would help people in the future using Simon and Simon. As I appreciate the call and conversation about the issues I spoke of, I do not feel as if this review is wrong. I have chosen to keep this review up because even though I had a discussion with a representative, my issues still happened. And I do believe that other people should be made aware and have the opportunity to see how others were treated. I appreciate your time today, however I will not be removing this review. Thank you.
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19 Feb, 2024 by B a
23 Oct, 2023 by Trina gillard
They are very helpful and understanding and I am very happy I picked them to help me and my daughter
Read more
02 Apr, 2023 by Nicolette vennard
Definitely wouldn’t recommend. I had a slip and fall about 5 years ago… and just now got compensated, didn’t even get that much. In the time it took my injury suit closed out and settled, we went through an entire pandemic, I lost my father and my husband, I had a child, had a stroke, recovered from a stroke fully, was diagnosed with a heart condition and was no longer a minor. I still can’t believe how long it took. When I first called to start speaking with an attorney they said 12-18 months for payment and closure of the case. 5 YEARS later. Here we are. Wow. If you want a shark for an attorney who actually cares about you and your case, I don’t recommend Simon and Simon. Especially cause they took almost 2/3rds of my settlement money after I’ve been suffering for 5 years.
Today, I spoke to a gentleman from Simon and Simon after they had reviewed my review. We were able to have a conversation and spoke about the issues I had put above. He did tell me that he would speak to a few people about a communication issue and try to have that resolved in hopes this would help people in the future using Simon and Simon. As I appreciate the call and conversation about the issues I spoke of, I do not feel as if this review is wrong. I have chosen to keep this review up because even though I had a discussion with a representative, my issues still happened. And I do believe that other people should be made aware and have the opportunity to see how others were treated. I appreciate your time today, however I will not be removing this review. Thank you.
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19 Feb, 2024 by B a
23 Oct, 2023 by Trina gillard
They are very helpful and understanding and I am very happy I picked them to help me and my daughter
Read more
02 Apr, 2023 by Nicolette vennard
Definitely wouldn’t recommend. I had a slip and fall about 5 years ago… and just now got compensated, didn’t even get that much. In the time it took my injury suit closed out and settled, we went through an entire pandemic, I lost my father and my husband, I had a child, had a stroke, recovered from a stroke fully, was diagnosed with a heart condition and was no longer a minor. I still can’t believe how long it took. When I first called to start speaking with an attorney they said 12-18 months for payment and closure of the case. 5 YEARS later. Here we are. Wow. If you want a shark for an attorney who actually cares about you and your case, I don’t recommend Simon and Simon. Especially cause they took almost 2/3rds of my settlement money after I’ve been suffering for 5 years.
Today, I spoke to a gentleman from Simon and Simon after they had reviewed my review. We were able to have a conversation and spoke about the issues I had put above. He did tell me that he would speak to a few people about a communication issue and try to have that resolved in hopes this would help people in the future using Simon and Simon. As I appreciate the call and conversation about the issues I spoke of, I do not feel as if this review is wrong. I have chosen to keep this review up because even though I had a discussion with a representative, my issues still happened. And I do believe that other people should be made aware and have the opportunity to see how others were treated. I appreciate your time today, however I will not be removing this review. Thank you.
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10 Aug, 2024 by Jason
30 Jul, 2024 by Andre silva
Amazing, helpful, and on top of things. I really recommend!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Madona mercado
After my car accident I was referred to Dana Rosencranz and it was a great referral. If I ever had a question or concern he or his staff would get back to me promptly. Communication was transparent. I can say I was satisfied with the outcome of my case I would highly recommend Rosencranz and associates.
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10 Aug, 2024 by Jason
30 Jul, 2024 by Andre silva
Amazing, helpful, and on top of things. I really recommend!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Madona mercado
After my car accident I was referred to Dana Rosencranz and it was a great referral. If I ever had a question or concern he or his staff would get back to me promptly. Communication was transparent. I can say I was satisfied with the outcome of my case I would highly recommend Rosencranz and associates.
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10 Aug, 2024 by Jason
30 Jul, 2024 by Andre silva
Amazing, helpful, and on top of things. I really recommend!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Madona mercado
After my car accident I was referred to Dana Rosencranz and it was a great referral. If I ever had a question or concern he or his staff would get back to me promptly. Communication was transparent. I can say I was satisfied with the outcome of my case I would highly recommend Rosencranz and associates.
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10 Aug, 2024 by Jason
30 Jul, 2024 by Andre silva
Amazing, helpful, and on top of things. I really recommend!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Madona mercado
After my car accident I was referred to Dana Rosencranz and it was a great referral. If I ever had a question or concern he or his staff would get back to me promptly. Communication was transparent. I can say I was satisfied with the outcome of my case I would highly recommend Rosencranz and associates.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Pat
The communication has been nil. Why on earth would they take one's case and then treat one like this!! I Here I am reading they have done it with so many just like they have treated me. I do not understand their business model.
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16 Jun, 2024 by Patrick j
They were all interested in the start. Gave them all the paperwork and info. This went on for weeks. Then no response from them. Made several attempts to contact them Nothing. No call backs at all. Weeks went by and not even a call to tell us if the case was going forward. Never heard from them again. Never again will I call these people. If I could give them no stars , I would.
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02 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Lied about what they had done. Had facts all wrong. Did nothing for one year. Impossible to get a return email or call. Had non admitted attorney work on the case. Appears to be hiding paper work. Shuffled case along to multiple out of state paralegals. Dropped put when pressed
Dont hire them
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28 Nov, 2023 by Phobic united foundation
Years of Experence. Cares about his clients. A winner Reliable, Quality Representative. Handles your case progessionally. Pride in his work your more than a client your a friend. 30 years handling our Business
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26 Aug, 2022 by Domenic brangiforte
Strong results thanks to mccarthy law i have my visitation with my daughter fantastic lawyers with hart and compassion all legial advice was spot on and also improved my character standing in the courts eyes above and beyond
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01 Mar, 2022 by Carolina costa
04 Feb, 2024 by Jack p
13 Jun, 2023 by Gugga dugga
Oldest, not best.
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18 Jan, 2023 by Geraldo hodge
04 Feb, 2024 by Jack p
13 Jun, 2023 by Gugga dugga
Oldest, not best.
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18 Jan, 2023 by Geraldo hodge
21 Apr, 2024 by T j
Not that good.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Billy ferullo
14 Jul, 2023 by Jessica grace
21 Apr, 2024 by T j
Not that good.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Billy ferullo
14 Jul, 2023 by Jessica grace
21 Apr, 2024 by T j
Not that good.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Billy ferullo
14 Jul, 2023 by Jessica grace
03 Oct, 2024 by Charisse cotton
I was provided with exceptional legal support. I highly recommend their services for anyone seeking reliable and knowledgeable legal representation. Thank you Dane Shulman Associates and Team!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Maria zajac-kaye
They care and do great and reliable work.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Susan balsamo
I would highly recommend Dane Shulman & Associates. I had a great experience with attorney Michael Kambouris. He got great results for me and fought for me until the end. Reliable and trustworthy and a man of his word.
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16 Nov, 2022 by Kevin
Took the time to meet with me over a complex financial situation, which led me to better understand the necessary steps to resolve it. Very professional and accommodating.
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12 May, 2020 by Mike
I had Robert Graves as a attorney just over a decade ago and had disappointing results at best. I was able to get one charge dismissed out of two which is very common with first time offenders for a plea bargain and the DA might not been able to prove the that charge, however the other charge (misdemeanor) was continued without a finding for 4 years which I reluctantly accepted based mostly off of his recommendation and i guess he couldn't get me a decent plea deal. A 4 year cwof for a first time offender is unheard of in district court. There are more serious cases where defendants receives a year continued without a finding. In 10 years since I can’t find an instance of someone in district court receiving more than 2 years of probation whether pleading out or being found guilty. My parents hired another attorney to help based on his recommendation ( I guess he couldn't handle a district court case by himself) and the whole court case took over a year to settle due to delays so the whole experience In the criminal justice system took over 5 years in district court for a alleged nonviolent crime. I was better off with a public defender, I doubt anyone could do worse. I also wasn’t told that with cwofs defendants don’t necessarily have to admit to the police report , it is possible to just admit that there are sufficient facts without saying you actual did the crime. But most lawyers won’t tell their clients that so It’s hard to blame him for that and some judges won’t accept that. But it would have been nice if I was told. I admitted to a crime which will always be on my record and got 4 years of probation for something I should have gotten 1-2 years for. Aweful plea deal ( I remember judge Hinkle even gave a weird look when she heard the probation length of the plea agreement like she was surprised ) and disappointing representation.
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12 Jul, 2015 by Marcia
Attorney Graves was very helpful in resolving a family dispute following my divorce. He was quick to answer my questions and very effective in the courtroom.
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18 Jul, 2022 by Bilal
17 Jul, 2022 by Roy jones
11 Aug, 2010 by Natasha tx
Seyfarth Shaw, the Attorney for the Marriott, is the worst Attorney that I have seen on record. Overbilling, lying to their client, costing their client $$$$, while they misrepresent, just attrocious behavior and an incompetant law firm. Trying to influence a Federal Judge after they have misfiled pleadings.
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18 Jul, 2022 by Bilal
17 Jul, 2022 by Roy jones
11 Aug, 2010 by Natasha tx
Seyfarth Shaw, the Attorney for the Marriott, is the worst Attorney that I have seen on record. Overbilling, lying to their client, costing their client $$$$, while they misrepresent, just attrocious behavior and an incompetant law firm. Trying to influence a Federal Judge after they have misfiled pleadings.
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24 Jul, 2023 by Michael blazo
Could not have asked for a better lawyer. He really knows what he’s doing and did an amazing job defending me. Thank you Anthony
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10 Feb, 2021 by Peter
I was appointed Anthony by Suffolk Superior court. I was not satisfied in the least bit. He goes and puts in for a dismissal for part of my indictment without speaking with me. Even worst, he ask for a dismissal for the most frivolous part of the indictment. I couldn't understand for the life of me why he didn't ask for a dismissal of the whole indictment that contained no evidence! Needless to say i fired him. Can you believe he told me i can be re indicted on a faulty charge that was dismissed! I wouldn't recommend him to anyone I know!
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14 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
In 1998, this lawyer handled my two misdemeanors (CMT's) that happened a month apart and before my five-year permanent residency. I expected a CWOF from those cases for years because he talked about it in details. I was surprised when I found out recently that it was actually a pre-trial probation (Chapter 276 Section 87). Now I can apply for naturalization without worries. My experience shows that he really chooses the best legal option for his clients.
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27 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Atty Broderick took great care in explaining my options and the ramifications of my case. Recommend him highly!
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05 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
This lawyer left my super strong case in the hands of an intern who, completely unsupervised, made all kinds of catastrophic mistakes. He pressured me to settle before I was ready and ignored my wishes.
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19 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
I went in acquiring help for my case. They helped me win my case. During the process, they always were very clear about the oncoming steps in my case. Thank you!
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14 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Awful. Rude receptionist. Terrible communication. Can't ever reach him by phone because of his many gatekeepers. If you're not of some Spanish persuasion, don't expect to be treated well. I hated my experience with them and had no choice but to take my business elsewhere. I'm not even sure he noticed. I regret hiring them. Big mistake.
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08 Oct, 2023 by John yu
Every year Boston magazine publishes the results for top attorneys in Boston from different legal specialties, from business and criminal law to family and employment law. If there are top 100 attorneys; Edward Wayland would be voted as the top 10 WORST attorneys in Boston. I'm very grateful I had made the right decision to terminate him for ineffectiveness of his counsel. About few years ago, To today's day, I never regretted (terminating) firing Edward Wayland.
He almost ruined my life and my freedom. lack of communication, Failure to exercise diligence, ineffectiveness of his counsel, and Incompetence, Incompetence, and Incompetence. I'm in the process of filing a complaint against him to the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseer; Attorney and Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP), I think he should get his license suspended or revoked. (everything I stated here is true except for the top 10 worst attorneys).
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01 Nov, 2022 by Cindy allen
I would like to share with everyone the extremely positive experience we had with Attorney Edward Wayland. We were "in the weeds" and getting "bullied" by opposing counsel. Edward just calmly and rationally cut through "the sideshow" intended to distract and turned the situation around 180 degrees. Most importantly Edward held to his integrity and achieved a "just" outcome. I am happy to speak with anyone directly as this is a real experience. You can contact Edward for my details.
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08 Oct, 2023 by John yu
Every year Boston magazine publishes the results for top attorneys in Boston from different legal specialties, from business and criminal law to family and employment law. If there are top 100 attorneys; Edward Wayland would be voted as the top 10 WORST attorneys in Boston. I'm very grateful I had made the right decision to terminate him for ineffectiveness of his counsel. About few years ago, To today's day, I never regretted (terminating) firing Edward Wayland.
He almost ruined my life and my freedom. lack of communication, Failure to exercise diligence, ineffectiveness of his counsel, and Incompetence, Incompetence, and Incompetence. I'm in the process of filing a complaint against him to the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseer; Attorney and Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP), I think he should get his license suspended or revoked. (everything I stated here is true except for the top 10 worst attorneys).
Read more
01 Nov, 2022 by Cindy allen
I would like to share with everyone the extremely positive experience we had with Attorney Edward Wayland. We were "in the weeds" and getting "bullied" by opposing counsel. Edward just calmly and rationally cut through "the sideshow" intended to distract and turned the situation around 180 degrees. Most importantly Edward held to his integrity and achieved a "just" outcome. I am happy to speak with anyone directly as this is a real experience. You can contact Edward for my details.
Read more
08 Oct, 2023 by John yu
Every year Boston magazine publishes the results for top attorneys in Boston from different legal specialties, from business and criminal law to family and employment law. If there are top 100 attorneys; Edward Wayland would be voted as the top 10 WORST attorneys in Boston. I'm very grateful I had made the right decision to terminate him for ineffectiveness of his counsel. About few years ago, To today's day, I never regretted (terminating) firing Edward Wayland.
He almost ruined my life and my freedom. lack of communication, Failure to exercise diligence, ineffectiveness of his counsel, and Incompetence, Incompetence, and Incompetence. I'm in the process of filing a complaint against him to the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseer; Attorney and Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP), I think he should get his license suspended or revoked. (everything I stated here is true except for the top 10 worst attorneys).
Read more
01 Nov, 2022 by Cindy allen
I would like to share with everyone the extremely positive experience we had with Attorney Edward Wayland. We were "in the weeds" and getting "bullied" by opposing counsel. Edward just calmly and rationally cut through "the sideshow" intended to distract and turned the situation around 180 degrees. Most importantly Edward held to his integrity and achieved a "just" outcome. I am happy to speak with anyone directly as this is a real experience. You can contact Edward for my details.
Read more
08 Oct, 2023 by John yu
Every year Boston magazine publishes the results for top attorneys in Boston from different legal specialties, from business and criminal law to family and employment law. If there are top 100 attorneys; Edward Wayland would be voted as the top 10 WORST attorneys in Boston. I'm very grateful I had made the right decision to terminate him for ineffectiveness of his counsel. About few years ago, To today's day, I never regretted (terminating) firing Edward Wayland.
He almost ruined my life and my freedom. lack of communication, Failure to exercise diligence, ineffectiveness of his counsel, and Incompetence, Incompetence, and Incompetence. I'm in the process of filing a complaint against him to the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseer; Attorney and Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP), I think he should get his license suspended or revoked. (everything I stated here is true except for the top 10 worst attorneys).
Read more
01 Nov, 2022 by Cindy allen
I would like to share with everyone the extremely positive experience we had with Attorney Edward Wayland. We were "in the weeds" and getting "bullied" by opposing counsel. Edward just calmly and rationally cut through "the sideshow" intended to distract and turned the situation around 180 degrees. Most importantly Edward held to his integrity and achieved a "just" outcome. I am happy to speak with anyone directly as this is a real experience. You can contact Edward for my details.
Read more
08 Oct, 2023 by John yu
Every year Boston magazine publishes the results for top attorneys in Boston from different legal specialties, from business and criminal law to family and employment law. If there are top 100 attorneys; Edward Wayland would be voted as the top 10 WORST attorneys in Boston. I'm very grateful I had made the right decision to terminate him for ineffectiveness of his counsel. About few years ago, To today's day, I never regretted (terminating) firing Edward Wayland.
He almost ruined my life and my freedom. lack of communication, Failure to exercise diligence, ineffectiveness of his counsel, and Incompetence, Incompetence, and Incompetence. I'm in the process of filing a complaint against him to the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseer; Attorney and Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP), I think he should get his license suspended or revoked. (everything I stated here is true except for the top 10 worst attorneys).
Read more
01 Nov, 2022 by Cindy allen
I would like to share with everyone the extremely positive experience we had with Attorney Edward Wayland. We were "in the weeds" and getting "bullied" by opposing counsel. Edward just calmly and rationally cut through "the sideshow" intended to distract and turned the situation around 180 degrees. Most importantly Edward held to his integrity and achieved a "just" outcome. I am happy to speak with anyone directly as this is a real experience. You can contact Edward for my details.
Read more
08 Oct, 2023 by John yu
Every year Boston magazine publishes the results for top attorneys in Boston from different legal specialties, from business and criminal law to family and employment law. If there are top 100 attorneys; Edward Wayland would be voted as the top 10 WORST attorneys in Boston. I'm very grateful I had made the right decision to terminate him for ineffectiveness of his counsel. About few years ago, To today's day, I never regretted (terminating) firing Edward Wayland.
He almost ruined my life and my freedom. lack of communication, Failure to exercise diligence, ineffectiveness of his counsel, and Incompetence, Incompetence, and Incompetence. I'm in the process of filing a complaint against him to the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseer; Attorney and Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP), I think he should get his license suspended or revoked. (everything I stated here is true except for the top 10 worst attorneys).
Read more
01 Nov, 2022 by Cindy allen
I would like to share with everyone the extremely positive experience we had with Attorney Edward Wayland. We were "in the weeds" and getting "bullied" by opposing counsel. Edward just calmly and rationally cut through "the sideshow" intended to distract and turned the situation around 180 degrees. Most importantly Edward held to his integrity and achieved a "just" outcome. I am happy to speak with anyone directly as this is a real experience. You can contact Edward for my details.
Read more
08 Oct, 2023 by John yu
Every year Boston magazine publishes the results for top attorneys in Boston from different legal specialties, from business and criminal law to family and employment law. If there are top 100 attorneys; Edward Wayland would be voted as the top 10 WORST attorneys in Boston. I'm very grateful I had made the right decision to terminate him for ineffectiveness of his counsel. About few years ago, To today's day, I never regretted (terminating) firing Edward Wayland.
He almost ruined my life and my freedom. lack of communication, Failure to exercise diligence, ineffectiveness of his counsel, and Incompetence, Incompetence, and Incompetence. I'm in the process of filing a complaint against him to the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseer; Attorney and Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP), I think he should get his license suspended or revoked. (everything I stated here is true except for the top 10 worst attorneys).
Read more
01 Nov, 2022 by Cindy allen
I would like to share with everyone the extremely positive experience we had with Attorney Edward Wayland. We were "in the weeds" and getting "bullied" by opposing counsel. Edward just calmly and rationally cut through "the sideshow" intended to distract and turned the situation around 180 degrees. Most importantly Edward held to his integrity and achieved a "just" outcome. I am happy to speak with anyone directly as this is a real experience. You can contact Edward for my details.
Read more
23 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Ducking joke, no communication, 4 paralegal, reported for fraud and theft, go to he'll, because I will find you
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17 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I guess most people would never post something online if the lawyer does his job well. To myself, the only thing I would say is Dante Mummolo was super responsible for my case. It's normal to have a paralegal handle things before things get started. Anyways, I got my money!!!
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18 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
His firm is a huge and impersonal disability/personal injury/workers' compensation mill. I hired Mummolo to represent me in a disability action. At the time I retained him, he seemed knowledgable and professional and he gave me all sorts of assurances about how my case would be handled. The case has been going on for over a year and I haven't spoken to him since. He doesn't call you back if you leave him a message. Instead, your case is assigned to a a supposed "paralegal." You are forced to converse with this person and this person alone. Unfortunately, my assigned clerk is new at the job, doesn't know anything, and isn't particularly interested in learning. As the case has progresses, he has become more and more rude. When I speak to him, it is obvious that he doesn't know anything about the specifics of my case and that he "handles" a great many cases. When I recently became very concerned that updated medical reports had not been submitted to the government for months in my case, I asked the clerk for a copy of my file. He gave me all sorts of excuses and reasons why this was not possible . When I reminded him that the file ultimately belongs to the client and not the attorney, he said that I was "micro-managing" the case. Nothing could be further from the truth. I'm quite sick and am incapable of "micro-managing" anything, particularly this lawsuit. I am just trying to exercise some due diligence. I regret the decision to hire Mummolo.
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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.
