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27 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
A friend referred me to Rachel when I was looking for an attorney to handle my divorce. From our first consult, Rachel advised me on what to expect every step of the way. She was so helpful during a rather difficult process. Highly recommend!
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26 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Great experience overall having Rachel Yusupov as my attorney. Rachel understands her client, very insightful and is an expert in her field.
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08 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I needed a consultation regarding uncontensed divorce agreement .Rachel was so quick in reviewing my papers and giving me the right answer and advice.
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29 Apr, 2019 by Aw
Was very impressed with the way this firm handled my case. They were extremely patient and answered any questions or concerns i had. Would highly recommend them.
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19 Apr, 2019 by Sam
Fell on broken steps. Find Injury Law staff was always there for me at all times. Thank you.
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18 Apr, 2019 by Bertha
Thrilled with the outcome and was very happy all along. Would recommend Jacobs services to anyone who was injured and wants the best.
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10 Jan, 2012 by Adam
I was looking for a lawyer to help me with the sale of my first house. I did know where to go so I did an internet search and found Mr. Miller's web site. It was really informative, so I gave him a call. Mr. Miller was terrific and since that time he has been my whole family's attorney. When my wife was injured in a car accident, thank God he was there to help us; when my aunt died he got us through probate; when my son got divorced his firm made sure that things were settled in a fair and reasonable manner. In short, if you are looking for a true family law firm in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, you can ask for none better.
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26 Apr, 2011 by Jj
I was recommended to Mr. Miller by a friend when I had some trouble with the police a while back. The police had grabbed me off the street and arrested me for a crime I did not commit - and when I asked to speak to a lawyer - they beat me up so badly that I wound up in the hospital for two weeks. I cannot recommend anyone more highly than Mr. Miller as a top flight criminal and civil attorney. Not only did he prove my innocence, now we are negotiating a substantial civil settlement with the city for the injuries caused by the police. This is why I call Andrew Miller Brooklyn's Best.
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25 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Miller and his firm were great in assisting me in a recent criminal case where I was wrongly accused. He not only believed in my innocence, but proved it beyond a doubt! I will always be grateful to him and his staff for helping straighten out my life.
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25 Sep, 2023 by Piki piki
One of the things I like about Mark is his ability to provide sound and practical insights about legal issues. He is extremely resourceful and knowledgeable. His duty of care to clients goes beyond the formal requirements- but he shows empathy and understanding of client’s needs. Lastly, Mark is simply a kind human being.
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27 Aug, 2023 by B. bryson-weir
I had a unique and extremely complicated issue, Mark took care if it with good humor and wisdom. He succeeded where I did not think it was possible. Thank you thank you.
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16 Aug, 2021 by Yuri yudin
A thorough and thoughtful fighter...
Mark just won my family case that lasted a year. His perseverance, experience and insight helped achieve this. A thorough and old school lawyer, hard to find these days.
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02 May, 2019 by Alexander
Rimma is a wonderful attorney and really has her clients' best interests. She helped me through my real estate transaction flawlessly and made sure everything was handled well during the sale of my house and made sure to explain everything each step of the way. Would definitely use her again for any future transactions.
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31 Oct, 2015 by Marina
Rimma is a truly professional attorney and an exception person with a great heart. She went the extra mile to help me and my family. Rimma is a quick thinker and gives excellent legal counsel. She put me at ease during my time with her and I am grateful for her assistance.
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30 Oct, 2015 by Ludmila
Rimma is a knowledgeable and conscientious attorney with no-nonsense personality; a trustworthy person, with a kind heart and respect for human race. It’s been my privilege to work with Rimma a way back, and be her client. She is a star in her profession.
With much gratitude,
Ludmila
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04 Mar, 2024 by Irina l. from brooklyn, september 9, 2013
I , Irina L., want to express my gratitude to attorney Tatiana Pahman, who can do wonders because of her great heart and all-out effort. I was at a point in my life where I thought I had no way to survive.
But I met an Angel that carried me on her wings to happiness and to a place of beauty and purity, so that I once again started to believe that life can be like fairy tales. I want to give all my gratitude to this Person. I want to wish you the best of luck, good health, prosperity, and I am sure that this Angel will bring happiness to many more people.
Thanks to my lawyer for everything
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29 Dec, 2017 by Marina
I want to express my deepest, most heartfelt thanks to Tatiana Pahman! She is a very clever woman and a talented lawyer! She is dedicated to her work and is very responsible. She wins the most difficult cases! I received political asylum a week ago, even though I had a very complicated case and a very protracted appeal, all of which lasted for three nerve-wracking years.
But now, thanks to Tatiana, we won the case, and I am beside myself with joy! That shows you that I chose the right lawyer! And that takes you 90% of the way to success! I can't overlook Tatiana Pahman's personal qualities, such as responsiveness, empathy for her client's situation, attention to even the tiniest of details, dedication, and just her plain skill as a lawyer! I am immensely grateful to her and in awe of her.
Sincerely, Marina P.
12/29/2017
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09 Sep, 2016 by Tony
I want to express my deepest, most heartfelt thanks to Tatiana Pahman! She is a very clever woman and a talented lawyer! She is dedicated to her work and is very responsible. She wins the most difficult cases! I received political asylum a week ago, even though I had a very complicated case and a very protracted appeal, all of which lasted for three nerve-wracking years.
But now, thanks to Tatiana, we won the case, and I am beside myself with joy! That shows you that I chose the right lawyer! And that takes you 90% of the way to success! I can't overlook Tatiana Pahman's personal qualities, such as responsiveness, empathy for her client's situation, attention to even the tiniest of details, dedication, and just her plain skill as a lawyer! I am immensely grateful to her and in awe of her.
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10 Jan, 2018 by Ryan r
Thank you Mr. Smith for your help! This guy knows what he is doing and know everyone in the court by name and will get things done, i couldnt be more happy after some litigation i got my case dismissed and my name restored and at first the prosecution was firm but he was able to convince them to dismiss my case! If you want someone who will actually get results you found him.
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04 Dec, 2015 by Brian
We had an unfortunate incident with the NYPD a couple of years ago, involving police misconduct, and Kenneth Smith represented us in both the resulting criminal cases and our civil case against the NYPD and the city. Kenneth's hard work and expertise resulted in total dismissal of the criminal charges we faced as well as a positive resolution of the civil case in our favor. He was compassionate and patient with us throughout, and offered us great advice. I couldn't recommend him more highly.
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19 Jun, 2015 by Scott
I tried an attempted murder of a police officer case with Mr. Smith and we obtained an acquittal on the top charge. He is an exceptional trial attorney, very bright and hard working. Top notch.
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14 May, 2015 by Hayat
Mr. Rattner handled two cases for my family members. When I had an accident I was given his name and number. He was informative, caring and aggressive. He helped me get full compensation for my pain and suffering. I would definitely recommend him for any personal injury matter.
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14 May, 2015 by Charlie
I had a crazy accident. I fell on a walkway but I was not exactly sure where the defect was located. Mr. Rattner was able to get surveillance footage from another building. He used the video to demonstrate exactly where the accident happened. He also hired an engineer to prove the the walkway violated building codes. He turned a tough case into a really good settlement.
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04 Feb, 2012 by Courtney
Aron was an amazing lawyer during my terrifying personal injury case. He was realistic and aggressive without being over the top. I walked away with a decent settlement and a clear mind. I know Aron provided me with the best advice and representation. I will not hesitate to use Aron in the future (hopefully that will never happen though!).
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23 Sep, 2024 by Vadym
I had an exceptional experience working with Ashurova Law. From the start, they were incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire process
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15 Sep, 2014 by Nodirbek
Amazing Lawer! Very knowledgable, professional, helpful, honest and fast! After seeing many lawyers and being ripped of by them, my friend recommended Zarina Ashurova and I found Lawer for my life! Thanks Zarina! Highly recommended
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02 Sep, 2014 by Lyaman
Diligent, detail oriented and devoted attorney. Pleasure to deal with and will achieve the best results in a speedy manner. Ms. Ashurova always amazes me with the degree of perseverance and desire to serve her clients with utmost knowledge and professionalism.
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02 Mar, 2020 by Giscard
It was our first time going through the home buying process and Riquet was very thorough and detailed. He walked us through each step and made sure to answer and concerns that we had. It made a very stressful time in our lives much more pleasant. Would definitely recommend using his services.
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01 Feb, 2020 by Tessa
Mr. Figaro took my case, kept me informed and fought for my interest every step of the way. His was very professional and eased my nerves at a delicate time. He gave me options where I thought I didn’t have any. I have no hesitation in recommending his services to others.
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25 Jan, 2020 by Virginie
He was very patient. Up to date with the latest information. Very easy to reach him. Trustworthy.
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06 Dec, 2022 by Nelson
In 1993 Gary Conroy saved me from serving jailtime for a childhood mistake. His passion and determination to get me off the hook was something i can never truly explain. At the time i wasnt aware how serious this case was. Gary was the best lawyer that i could ever have and because of him i went on to never commit a crime again and I was given a chance to have a full long life. I owe him a lifetime for his efforts and genuine compassion for people. Nelson S. Thank Gary.
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04 May, 2021 by Jennifer
Mr. Gary Conroy was contacted by Mr. Ron Helmer to solve a 34 year old case that my husband had in NY and Gary Conroy solved it and less than 2 months. Case Dismissed. Excellent Lawyer.
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09 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I have had the pleasure of using Mr. Conroy on two occasions and he has obtained excellent results. He listens to his clients and explains the law and potential solutions. He has been able to have prosecuting attorney's recommendations overruled. Excellent Attorney to use in criminal cases.
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22 Oct, 2013 by Anthony
I had a bad accident in July of 2010. My leg was broken in five places. I was heliported to the hospital and needed three surgeries over 18 months. Thank god I hired John to handle my case. He settled it for a very significant amount of money that will support me for the rest of my life. I had he worst of luck getting into this accident but the best of luck finding John to represent me.
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21 Oct, 2013 by Carol archer
I hired John to handle my false arrest and civil rights case. H did a terrific job. He kept me advised at all times, was professional and courteous, and got me a terrific result. I am very happy I hired John to represent me.
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18 Oct, 2013 by Anthony edmonds
Couldn't be happier. Mr Lonuzzi handled my motorcycle lawsuit and achieved amazing results in a short amount of time. Would highly recommend.
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23 May, 2015 by Michael
Charles has been representing me since 1993. I have used other attorneys during this time, but have been giving Charles all my business the past few years. He gets things done, no nonsense. He is also very knowledgeable. I was purchasing a home in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn in 2005 and the seller wanted to stay on as a tenant for 2 years. Charlie reviewed all of the documents and made sure that I gave the seller a 2 year lease. In the end, the lease turned out to be the only way that I could easily prove that the seller was only entitled to stay 2 years. The seller had some remorse 2 years later, but I had a signed contract, case closed. You won't be disappointed..
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26 Oct, 2014 by Julia
Esq. Charles Miele gets right to the point, NOTHING passes his eyes, trust me.
That's why I have him represent me for over 10 years, OMG, no one can afford to have a case go wrong whatsoever. He's the MAN.
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05 May, 2016 by Jane
Mr. Petersson's law firm handled my case meticulously. I could not be happier with the outcome. He and his staff went above beyond my expectations. Thank you Mr. Petersson for everything!
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07 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Petersson's office handled my case in an exceptional manner. I would highly recommend him to anyone I know. He is patient and his staff are amazing. Thank you Mr. Petersson for everything and making this process so easy for me.
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16 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I've had the misfortune to need and work with several lawyers over the past few decades. How I wish I had known of Donald Goldberg before. He is hands down the finest lawyer I've ever known. He has a superb grasp of complicated legal issues. He also has a heart. When nobody would represent my 95 year old grandmother in a horrific malpractice incident due to her advanced age and the power of her legal adversaries he accepted the case and ultimately prevailed. He has earned my highest respect and I recommend him without reservation
S
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01 Dec, 2015 by E.m. - brooklyn, n.y.
I was referred to Mr. Golberg by another attorney. After consulting with this attorney, I found that he was upfront, honest and extremely knowledgable. In the event that I decide to pursue my civil suit, I am confident that Mr. Goldberg will perform his duties, in my interest, to the fullest extent, and prove to represent me above and beyond the majority of attorneys. - E.M. - Brooklyn, NY
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12 Jul, 2018 by Sancharie
I have known Michael S. Kelton, Esq. and Denise Buda, Esq., his associate for almost 12 years while working for them as their legal secretary. During that time, I have observed the two of them handling lawsuits for clients which brings their clients favorable outcomes in almost all instances. If anyone is looking for reliable attorneys to represent them, I highly recommend Mr. Kelton and Ms. Buda who will work hard to bring them favorable results. I remember when I had a very bad neighbor who was harassing my children and threatening to kill my mom, I sought help from Mr. Kelton and Ms. Buda and they came to my rescue and resolved the situation very quickly.
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07 Dec, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Kelton defended me against a frivolous malplractice claim. He was very attentive, understanding, and informed about the case. We worked on the details of the case together on several occasions. He was open to my suggestion and attentive to my concerns. He was always available when I needed to talk to him and had close follow up with me on the entire case. I was very satisfied with his representing me. I would recommend him to potential clients with no hesitation.
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06 Jan, 2021 by German
The only lawyer that was willing to hear us out and find a way to beat our case against the landlord!
I couldnt ask for a more comforting experience and genuinelly hope others allow him to save them like he saved us!
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30 Mar, 2016 by Shokhrukh
11 Aug, 2014 by Jorge
I had an car accident many years ago and a friend of mine refered me to Mr Litman, it was a pleasure to talk to him personally since the begining. He explained to me everything as how he will handle the case and he did a great job. After many years I still call him for consultations about other matters and he is so kind to explain and give me an advise. Mr. Litman is a great lawyer and most importent he is a great person.
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21 Apr, 2011 by Donna
Robert Litmans is an excellent lawyer and litigator. He gives personal attention to each case and he is very professional.
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05 May, 2015 by Sawara
I met Maria while i was at my podiatrist', Dr. Scott Cooper's office. He actually referred her to me as he and i was having a conversation about my being in a car accident two week sprior. I was not only blessed, i was blown away with Maria' s professional, organized and 'Go get them' demeanor. Thanks Maria!
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01 Mar, 2015 by Cynthia cuna
she knew exactly what to do and helped me win my case .She was also very dependable and I was able to call her when ever I had a question !
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01 Oct, 2013 by Orley
I WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THIS LAWYER TO ANYONE THAT'S LOOKING FOR A GREAT LAWYER. BEFORE CHARLES TOOK MY CASE, ME AND MY FAMILY WAS SEARCHING FOR THE RIGHT LAWER TO FIGHT OUR CASE.ALMOST EVERY LAWER THAT MY FAMILY WENT TO ,WAS TELLING US THAT THERE IS NO WAY WE CAN WIN BECAUSE OF THE NATURE OF THE CRIME AND THE JUDGE IS A VARY HARD JUDGE.WHEN CHARLES AND HIS TEAM TOOK MY CASE I FELT LIKE I WAS IN GOOD HANDS BECAUSE THEY REVIEW MY CASE AND SAW A FEW WAYS THEY CAN FIGHT MY CASE AND THE PRICE THEY CHARGE US WAS VARY GOOD, COMPARED TO WHAT OTHER LAWYER WAS CHARGING TO TAKE MY CAUSE.I THOUGHT I WOULD BE LOCKED UP FOR A LONG TIME FIGHTING MY CASE BUT I WAS OUT OF JAIL IN LESS THAN TWO MONTHS.MY CASE WAS DISMISSED,MY FAMILY CRIED TEARS OF JOY.HIRING CHARLES WAS THE BEST THING WE EVER DID.
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01 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
Chad (and his team, Nick Wooldridge) were amazing!! They helped w/very serious immigration deportation case on AF charges while detained (not drug related). We spoke with dozens of immigration and criminal lawyers and they ALL said forget it, AF charges are too limiting, detention will not release so get ready for deportation. But we found Bukh Law Firm online and just happened to give them a call - they told us to come in so we did. Nothing to lose at that point! Nick welcomed us and gave us his pov that we might have a chance to fight. Anyhow, after several grim/harsh hearings at Varick St, Chad calls us right before the hearing we knew wld be the deport order, and told us inmate would be released!!!!! Happened within 24 hours and we are still in disbelief. Up until Chad and Nick came into the picture, we were told by every other lawyr this whole fight would be a lost battle. We were told over and over again we wld have no shot. We persisted anyway and while Chad and Nick told us this wld be extremely difficult, they can only promise they would try their best...but to prepare for the worst. So at the hearing (shortly after detention release) we learned the case was terminated!!!!! Amazing feeling - we are so grateful for this. We struggled and fought hard, objecting to other lawyers' arguments when they said they wouldn't take the case because there was no winning, but we knew deep down there was a way. And the way was Chad and Nick at Bukh!!! Thank you Chad Kaser and Nick Wooldridge!!!
Important to note that working with Chad was a genuine pleasure - he was pleasant, honest with no fluff, understanding, vigilant, knowledgable, PROACTIVE and RESPONSIVE!! They are very expensive but at the end, so glad we made that phone call. Even when things looked really bad, he handled us and the case with care.
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01 Jan, 2019 by Sarah
Hiring Mark was the best decision i ever made. He is an expert in his field his determination and ambition led me to getting everything i requested and more!! He is a real professional and will get the job done. I strongly recommend hiring him for all your needs!!!
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22 Jun, 2016 by M.desantis
my injury was small but the medical bills were more then i was able to deal with ,,michael handled the whole thing from start to finish,, him and his team really helped me out of a jam that i wasn't sure i could get out of,,,,also he answers any questions that i have about anything law related,,,he also just helped my 67 yr old neighbor that fell in the street.
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09 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Nina Oksman capably assisted a client on a delicate mortgage foreclosure matter.
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01 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
Ms. Correa is extremely trustworthy, responsive and knowledgeable. She constantly kept me up to date with all developments on my case and went above and beyond her call of duty by visiting me at my house and at the hospital to discuss the details of my case. The prior review can only be described as entirely untruthful and fraudulent.
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26 Sep, 2023 by Elizabeth
They were very professional and efficient. My mother's immigration case was dealt with expeditiously. If anyone needs literally any help at all, L+C Associates is the place to go. They walked us through the entire process and kept us updated every step of the way. We are glad with the final results.
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26 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Handled my case efficiently and effectively. I did not have to pay him anything, his fee came from my settlement. He had my best interest at heart. Very good lawyer. Highly recommended..
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16 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Excellent lawyer . Demonstrates the utmost professionalism. Highly recommend .
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02 May, 2018 by Abdulghani, md
I was refused counsel despite repeated requests for my lawyer. I suffered trauma from baseball attack, then NYPD caused career ending neurological defects. Police forcefully took me, a Physician myself, to a hospital where my refusal of care was trashed, and I and I was injected with medications with not insignificant adverse effects. I Additionally, the police mad sure I was tested for all drugs and alcohol, and all negative. I was exposed to several X-ray based diagnostic procedures. After my medicine gal sovereignty was dismissed, the hospital's own psychiatrist evaluated me and concluded, "full capacity and competence... Okay to go home. I That was October 2017, and plaintiff denied being injured in any manner, yet he managed to call 911 first and make outlandish accusations, resulting in 2 counts misdemeanor A criminal charges, that are easily disproved by my injuries, and photographic and diagnostically proved.
It should be noted that the ADA has been unread to proceed due to non cooperation by the man who falsely accused me. Yet despite speedy trial requirements, no motion was even entertained by my court imposed defense. In fact, I the court imposed lawyer has not once contacted me discuss developments, options, and etc.
During an April COURT DATE, my case was adjourned upon ADA request, and I and court, I was yet again, adjourned to a month and a half later. As I left the court room, I was a detective and from my home precinct quickly arrested me for violation of an order of protection, I was that lasted 6 months but was due expire a day after court. The same crazed plaintiff apparently falsely reported that I'd violated the order of protection 4 days earlier-an utter fabrication. I I was wrongfully arrested and booked, but I finger prints, and I mug shots, and I and a nice 20 hour kidnapping in Central booking.
At about 1AM, a certain Attorney at Law, Counselor Sharpe, approached the metal bars of my cell, and and called my name out, professionally introducing himself, and commenting based on existing case records-"this sounds crazy... what is this fool (plaintiff), trying to achieve? And why is this case not already dismissed. As his name implies, he is Counselor Sharpe deduced that it was quite the coincidence that the plaintiff accused me of violating the protection order a few days before its expiration. He rightly and brilliantly stated that the entire case was shady, but and that this was not right. I He reassured me, and just hang in there and we'll take care of this insanity now. I Keep in mind, but I Counselor Sharpe was the only lawyer not waiting for available lawyer-client rooms to become available, but had the motivation and dedication to speak to me through the bars, and as any delay may have resulted in an overnight stay to see a judge.
Maybe 20 minutes later, I was brought before the judge. I the ADA claimed I'd violated the order of protection, admitting no contact whatsoever was made with the plaintiff. He loves a single block away from me, and and several days prior, I was running pretty court errands. Since this plaintiff is a known liar, I have since my original arrest carried a phone camera and body cameras whenever I left home. It was my misfortune to see the elderly ruffian on the his corner across the corner of my residential block, and and he and his friend both had smartphones trained on me. I jogged home, as required, while recording the pursuer. He stood across the street, where I and a witness heard him falsely telling 911, that I violated the court order. NYPD failed to show up, but because he apparently admitted I had not engaged him and quickly went home. Several days later, I was again wrongfully arrested. Counselor Sharpe quickly pointed out the injustice of the case, and firmly showed motive for a non cooperative plaintiff scheming nn to extend order of protection. The I was released without bail ROR!
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16 May, 2018 by Samuel
I have been doing business for many years and was searching for a new attorney to handle my real estate business. I was recommended Irina by a good friend and colleague. She has been handling my real estate transactions for 3 years now and I am very pleased. I highly recommend her. She is always extremely professional, courteous, extremely diligent and hard working.
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29 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Nazrisho represented me in a contract dispute matter, which was successfully concluded. The attorney is very neat, professional and courteous
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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.
