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16 Sep, 2024 by Diane hassan
Review of Mansour Chaya I had an excellent experience working with Mansour Chaya on my workman’s compensation case. He demonstrated great communication always keeping me informed and explaining each step of the process clearly. His knowledge of workman’s compensation laws was evident, and it gave me confidence that my case was in good hands. The outcome of my case was very favorable and I truly believe that it was due to the Mansour’s expertise and dedication. Beyond his professionalism, he also provided me with much-needed emotional support throughout the process, which made a significant difference during a stressful time. I highly recommend Mansour Chaya to anyone seeking a reliable and compassionate workman’s compensation attorney.
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09 Sep, 2017 by Dale
I hired him to work on my social security case and he sat on it for years. When I finally gave up and hired a new attorney and I win the case years later. He shows up to send a fee petition to the judge. He managed to make time to send that document but not schedule me a hearing.
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25 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I obtained him for a few cases. The lack of communication with him is horrible. He does not return phone calls or emails. The lack of knowledge he had of my case when speaking to him was insane. After five months of having all the information he needed my case is still not settled. The lack of professionalism is horrible.
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02 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired him after being rear ended by two vehicles, every time I called too check on my case I got run around after run around for a year finally I put my foot down and settled for all he said he could get, I don't believe he even tried it was a real waste of time, got less then a 3rd of what I should of gotten and haven't been the same since.
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16 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I Hired Mark Ruby after hearing him on the radio and heard of him wining cases. Unfortunately after I met with him the first time and signed paperwork with him I never heard from him again. I had to call him 2 months later to check up on my case and he said I will check when I get to my office but to not worry because he will take care of me. That never happened and 6 months later he did nothing on my case until I said I will find another lawyer did he finally return my phone call. His reviews are exactly what he is and has a poor work ethic for his practice. Don't make the mistake some of us has already made and look elsewhere.
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14 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired him and he never called me. I try calling him many times and he would never answer. and then after almost a year he said that he wouldn't represent me. and then he recommended another lawyer and I spoke with the lawyer and he wouldn't take my case. so now I have to find another lawyer all over again.
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27 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
KEVIN TOOK MY CASE FOR MORE THAN 4 YEARS AGO! AND HAS DONT NOTHING! BUT TAKE MONEY FROM YOU. HE WILL NOT CONTACT YOU HE WILL LIE TO YOU AND SAY HIS DOING SOMETHING WHEN HIS NOT DOING ANYTHING THIS GUY IS A SCAM "BEWARE" HE WILL NOT HANDLE YOUR MEDICAL BILLS RIGHT BECAUSE RECENTLY 7/2013 I WENT TO COURT FINALLY MY CASE IS DONE HE MADE ME LOOK LIKE A FOOL IN COURT FLIRTING WITH MY INSURANCE LADY INSTEAD OF BEING IN MY SIDE. HE SELLS HIMSELF SO HE GETS MORE MORE. THIS GUY TOOK FROM ME 6,500 DOLLARS ON TOP OF THAT I FROM MY MONEY HAD TO PAY 5,000 WHICH MEANS I STAY WITH NOTHING BECAUSE THAT'S WHAT MY PART WAS 5,000!!! MY DAUGHTER RECENTLY GOT IN AN ACCIDENT 5/2013 AND HER CASE IS ALREADY COMING OUT IN SEPT. 2013. I REGRET EVER COMING TO THIS LAW FIRM THEY ARE HORRIBLE WOULD NOT EVER RECOMMEND THEM TO ANYONE HE DOES NOT CARE WHAT HAPPENED HE CARES THAT HE GETS HIS MONEY AFTER THAT HE WON'T. CONTACT YOU TILL A MONTH LATER TO GO GET THE CHECK HORRIBLE HORRIBLE KEVIN M. IS HORRIBLE AND HE DOES NOT KNOW WHAT HE IS DOING. BUSINESS!!!!! SAVE YOURSELF THE PAIN AND SUFFERING AND JUST GO TO SOMEONE WHO REALLY KNOWS WHAT HIS DOING SOMEONE WHO WILL TAKE CARE OF YOUR CASE AND MAKE YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE AND NOT YELL AT YOU AND TREAT YOU LIKE YOU CAN'T DO ANYTHING WITHOUT HIM.
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05 Sep, 2008 by Anonymous
I had Mr. McCarthy as Lawyer for an Industiral accident, it dragged on for over 8 1/2 years. There was repeated harassment by company officials, I repeatedly caught the company doctor in lies. AT&T never paid unused vacation time (I reminded him it was near the deadline and he let it go by without filing for it ( over $6,100). I had 2 witnesses about prior incidents regarding the equipment which led to my injury and he would not check with them. There testimony could have affected what the company would have had to pay out if it was considered negligence, in my favor. He had me pick up an $8.00 rosary for his mother and when I brought it to the office he claimed he had no cash with him and would send me a check---15 years later no check---he claims it was a gift. When the company stated they were about to terminate me unless I went along with company doctors determination I could return to work (he never examined me) [ two surgeons who did thorough examinations found opposite Dr. Waugh's findings] He said he would write a letter to them, the company stated after that I resigned, he agreed. The day that they insisted I return, I was scheduled for presurgical exam and tests, and the company knew it, and deliberately picked that date because of it. At an initial state hearing AT&T was informed they had to pay for upcoming surgery, they refused and I had to. At a later court hearing they were ordered to reimburse me plus 10% annual interest from the day they got the bill until they paid it. They requested and got the reimbursement lowered to workman's compensation rates and waited a few months to pay that after an amount was reached---to date not one cent in interest and he would not bring it up before the judge. I had agreed when the amount was presented to me, figuring the court ordered interest would bring it to about what I had paid, instead I only got about 60% of what I had paid. I know he had other clients from AT&T because he stated how lousy Dr. Waugh was on the stand under questioning, and doesn't mind questioning him beccause he is so lousy. When I was terminated I stated I wanted it to go third party since I now owed the company no loyalty, he claimed we had to go this route first. Before I agreed to the settlement I had told him I wanted him to file a wrongful termination, discrimination against the handicapped suit, he said okay. I had taken this to mean that he would and agreed to sign the settlment papers. I also told him I wanted this to go third party, befor a jury and he said nothing. I had told my father earlier if Kevin McCarthy said no to either I was not going to sign. I figured many things could then come out. HIs okay to the wrongful termination suit and saying nothing to the request to go third party I took to be that he would. Foolish me for trusting him. The settlement did not include for pain and suffering which is standard and normally three times total medical, therapy and related bills, it was just an amount for a permanent 80% loss of function to the leg, which was about 3 years pay. Some lawyers I have talked with later (not on a professional basis) stated with the medical bills and therapy, etc. it should have easily been more than 10 times what I got. Since he was getting paid a third, why didn't he go after this amount? Was I sold out or did he trade me off for easier settlements (faster and less of a fight) for some other clients (some of whom I had foolishly recommended him to). I have since told people who have asked to recommend a lawyer and have given names I wish I knew about then, and I have told them not to go to Kevin McCarthy because he could not be trusted. At the time he was in the law practce of Moren & McCarthy, I have noticed that he now has his own practice. For over a year, after the settlement, I kept calling his office and leaving messages about if he had filed the wrongful termination and discrimination against the handicapped and asked when a hearing might be. The first time he called me back was well over a year later
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19 Aug, 2013 by Jane
A very unresponsive attorney. Over the course of a year and a half he returned my monthly calls two times. He did not have a clear status on my case the two times I did speak with him and I ended up taking a low settlement offer because he said he couldnt get anymore money for me. His fee ended up being more than what I received. Very dissapointed.
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07 Jul, 2010 by Anonymous
I hired this lawyer to represent me about a year ago and things were going well until real work had to be done then it became nothing but a hassle to deal with their office. I would highly recommend finding another Lawyer to help you with your legal needs
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06 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I feel like he does not value small cases that yield under $10,000. I've hired him for 3 separate car accident cases but I never met him in person everything has been done via email or fax and honestly everything that has been notarized was not done in front of me
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23 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Retained Michelle while she was an attorney at Aceto, Bonner and Cole. Her overall manner, attitude and tone reflected how utterly miserable she was doing her job. She pushed us to settle for small amount of money. We refused and fortunately it was to our benefit as we got more in the end. She wanted to get the case over with and had NO patience for discussing options other than what she insisted we do. Being polite and respectful is not her wheelhouse. She has no interest in her client's perspective. Dictatorial and rude. Very unresponsive to requests for information or updates. Had to chase her down for answers.
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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:

  1. What is your experience with personal injury cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has handled cases involving similar injuries or accidents.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and what percentage they will take from any settlement or award.
  3. 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.
  4. How often do you take cases to trial?
    Some lawyers prefer to settle quickly, while others are more comfortable going to court if necessary.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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