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16 May, 2021 by Kat
Being new to the area, we turned to a local friend to recommend an attorney for some family matters. Her choice: The Valentine Law Firm! We’ve now worked with Shanna and Moni on several projects and are greatly pleased with the results. Their professionalism and expertise are enhanced by their responsiveness, empathy and initiative. They exemplify that friendly Texan helpfulness we’ve come to count on and appreciate. Many thanks again to Shanna and her lovely team!
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20 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
I see Mrs. Valentine no longer practices family law, but she was my family law attorney at the time. I sincerely think Mrs. Valentine wanted to help me, but in the end, she failed and abandoned me when I needed her most. She was very understanding in the beginning as she agreed to support my goals. I explained that while I understood I couldn't stop my divorce, I didn't want it and wanted to do everything I could to maximize the possibility of reconciliation, so I wasn't going to do anything to encourage it. She seemed to respect and understand where I was coming from and was willing to work with me. She also understood that I had already hired an attorney who had exhausted all of my retainer from my temporary hearing and I was still paying off my balance with them, so I couldn't afford another retainer. She agreed to work with me on an hourly basis instead of requiring a prepaid retainer. During that time, she was helpful answering questions, explaining how to file documents and prepare for hearings. However, when it came time for my final hearing, she indicated I finally need to pay a retainer, to which I reluctantly agreed to because I didn't really have the money. I even asked her if she could take it out of the trust from the settlement in my final hearing so that I could still afford to pay my living expenses. She declined, however, I managed to come up with the retainer the last day of her deadline. I was literally on my way to her office when she told me she could no longer represent me because I didn't want a divorce. She then proceeded to suggest that because I hadn't paid a retainer, that she wasn't representing me, but we definitely had established an attorney-client relationship over the course of almost 9 months, I was just paying on an hourly basis. I explained again, that I knew I couldn't stop the divorce from happening, but as a matter of principle, I was committing to my marriage until the end. Considering it was right before the July 4th holiday, I felt that she just didn't want to do the prep work instead of going on vacation. As a result, I wasn't able to retain an attorney on that short of notice and had to proceed with my hearing as Pro Se. As you could imagine, I was completely outmatched in my hearing going against another attorney, but I felt I had no other options. I was very discouraged at how she abandoned me when I needed her the most.
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06 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
From day one Shanna works for her clients. She fights hard with a kind heart. Anyone who ever has worked with Shanna, or for her knows this as truth.
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24 Feb, 2015 by Patrick
Ron is an excellent attorney and has helped me on several occasions with contracts and work related issues. He will get the job done .
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14 Jul, 2014 by Lorelei
Yep, Ron can be rude and annoying. He is, however, a FANTASTIC lawyer. I've had to go to him twice for help getting custody of my special needs sister. If I had listened to him, it would have been only once. He had my mother on the stand and he was so gentle yet so effective, the change was made with a minimum of pain. My sister's life in both safety and quality is fantastic and she now has opportunities not available when she was kept at home with my mom. As far as I'm concerned, this is the guy I go to for legal help.
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29 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
This is by far the most rudest, self-absorbed attorney I've ever spoken with. After a VERY brief phone conversation (15-30 seconds) I was told that if I needed a free consultation about divorce and bankruptcy than I obviously couldn't afford both anyway (how in the heck would HE know what I can afford???). When I said I didn't need to file for divorce or to file bankruptcy, he said then I didn't need a lawyer and hung up on me. Ron Butler's website offers a variety of services. My situation is a combination of several of those issues, out of state, federal, and now very obvious far, far too complicated for Ron Butler to even comprehend. This also makes me seriously question the validity of his website.
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18 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I've heard of horror stories about court appointed attorneys. I have the worst attorney I ever have the court appoint to represent my case. Campbell has never once asked me for my statement and used the arrest affidavit as my statement. He never argued, litigate or negotiated to accept the least amount of punishment the DA would offer. I myself had to argue my own case to the judge. My mistake was relying too much on Campbell.
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06 Jul, 2012 by Mike
I was falsely accused of a threat. On the first visit with him(while I was in jail) he told me that "in reality people are guilty unless they can prove their innocence:. Just what one wants to hear. I was locked up for over a month as he was unable/unwilling to get me a release and he never got me in-front of a judge! I felt he didn't want to do anything because he was a public defender and getting little money. He kept dragging it out until I had to plead to something I didn't do or spend the secongd month in jail and lose everything. He is a quack!!!!
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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.
