Lawyers map
>67
experienced lawyers
Filter by
26 Nov, 2024 by Veronica smith
Complete waste of time and money. This lawyer had my contact info, email, and all evidence (including CCTV, body cam footage, witnesses, medical records, and photographs) for THREE months before my hearing, yet he never reached out to me until just 10 minutes before seeing the judge. He then pressured me into taking a plea deal for something I wasn’t guilty of, despite having concrete evidence to prove my innocence. Because of his lack of preparation, I was forced to discharge from the military and lost my civilian job as an EMT, since I couldn’t be insured to drive an ambulance with this charge on my record. It’s taken me THREE years to finally get re-hired as an EMT. I would’ve been better off with the public defender, who at least would have fought for me. Do not waste your time or money with this lawyer.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Cj coker
RSH Legal is full of highly talented attorneys who are fantastic people, it is clear that everyone cares deeply about the work they do and the clients they do it for. Everyone on the RSH staff is super friendly, they make it a nice place to be.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by James cummings
Worst law firm ever! They wouldn’t take on my case and they claimed they sent me a letter in the mail explaining why they weren’t able to and I never received anything.
Read more
30 Dec, 2024 by Ronald hala
Darin and his associates went above and beyond to help me with my workman’s compensation case. They listened to my needs and explained the process in a way for me to understand so I could make the best decision for my case. My wife and I are so appreciative of their hard work and dedication. I would highly recommend their firm!!
Sincerely,
Ron Hala
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Jacob schroetter
Darin and his amazing legal team have helped me through much in over a 3 and a half year span. Through many tough times and even the good. I’d trust Darin and his legal team to take care of me and my family time and time again. The best workers compensation legal team I have had the privilege of working with. Communication has been absolutely amazing and updates kept coming in. I could not have asked for a better lawyer and legal team. Very blessed to have found him.
Read more
08 Dec, 2024 by Leah schroetter
07 Feb, 2024 by Chris
I needed help with a Social Security claim. Rob Legislador handled this case with class and treated me very politely. Other 2 yrs, and don’t really remember him ever changing any scheduled meetings, and never gave me the impression he needed to get going somewhere else. It was a long winded process as he said they usually are. But at the end of it all, Rob got the job done to my satisfaction. Thanks Rob.
Read more
08 Mar, 2022 by Jennifer
I've been working with Rob for over a year with my SSI case and my sons. His firm is extremely professional and great to work with! Rob really makes it a point to know your situation and understand it. I was happy with the outcome of both cases and would highly recommend this firm to anyone!
Read more
18 Oct, 2021 by Cody
Rob did a great job for me. He and his staff were very helpful from start to finish. Great results.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Veronica smith
Complete waste of time and money. This lawyer had my contact info, email, and all evidence (including CCTV, body cam footage, witnesses, medical records, and photographs) for THREE months before my hearing, yet he never reached out to me until just 10 minutes before seeing the judge. He then pressured me into taking a plea deal for something I wasn’t guilty of, despite having concrete evidence to prove my innocence. Because of his lack of preparation, I was forced to discharge from the military and lost my civilian job as an EMT, since I couldn’t be insured to drive an ambulance with this charge on my record. It’s taken me THREE years to finally get re-hired as an EMT. I would’ve been better off with the public defender, who at least would have fought for me. Do not waste your time or money with this lawyer.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Cj coker
RSH Legal is full of highly talented attorneys who are fantastic people, it is clear that everyone cares deeply about the work they do and the clients they do it for. Everyone on the RSH staff is super friendly, they make it a nice place to be.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by James cummings
Worst law firm ever! They wouldn’t take on my case and they claimed they sent me a letter in the mail explaining why they weren’t able to and I never received anything.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Veronica smith
Complete waste of time and money. This lawyer had my contact info, email, and all evidence (including CCTV, body cam footage, witnesses, medical records, and photographs) for THREE months before my hearing, yet he never reached out to me until just 10 minutes before seeing the judge. He then pressured me into taking a plea deal for something I wasn’t guilty of, despite having concrete evidence to prove my innocence. Because of his lack of preparation, I was forced to discharge from the military and lost my civilian job as an EMT, since I couldn’t be insured to drive an ambulance with this charge on my record. It’s taken me THREE years to finally get re-hired as an EMT. I would’ve been better off with the public defender, who at least would have fought for me. Do not waste your time or money with this lawyer.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Cj coker
RSH Legal is full of highly talented attorneys who are fantastic people, it is clear that everyone cares deeply about the work they do and the clients they do it for. Everyone on the RSH staff is super friendly, they make it a nice place to be.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by James cummings
Worst law firm ever! They wouldn’t take on my case and they claimed they sent me a letter in the mail explaining why they weren’t able to and I never received anything.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Veronica smith
Complete waste of time and money. This lawyer had my contact info, email, and all evidence (including CCTV, body cam footage, witnesses, medical records, and photographs) for THREE months before my hearing, yet he never reached out to me until just 10 minutes before seeing the judge. He then pressured me into taking a plea deal for something I wasn’t guilty of, despite having concrete evidence to prove my innocence. Because of his lack of preparation, I was forced to discharge from the military and lost my civilian job as an EMT, since I couldn’t be insured to drive an ambulance with this charge on my record. It’s taken me THREE years to finally get re-hired as an EMT. I would’ve been better off with the public defender, who at least would have fought for me. Do not waste your time or money with this lawyer.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Cj coker
RSH Legal is full of highly talented attorneys who are fantastic people, it is clear that everyone cares deeply about the work they do and the clients they do it for. Everyone on the RSH staff is super friendly, they make it a nice place to be.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by James cummings
Worst law firm ever! They wouldn’t take on my case and they claimed they sent me a letter in the mail explaining why they weren’t able to and I never received anything.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Veronica smith
Complete waste of time and money. This lawyer had my contact info, email, and all evidence (including CCTV, body cam footage, witnesses, medical records, and photographs) for THREE months before my hearing, yet he never reached out to me until just 10 minutes before seeing the judge. He then pressured me into taking a plea deal for something I wasn’t guilty of, despite having concrete evidence to prove my innocence. Because of his lack of preparation, I was forced to discharge from the military and lost my civilian job as an EMT, since I couldn’t be insured to drive an ambulance with this charge on my record. It’s taken me THREE years to finally get re-hired as an EMT. I would’ve been better off with the public defender, who at least would have fought for me. Do not waste your time or money with this lawyer.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Cj coker
RSH Legal is full of highly talented attorneys who are fantastic people, it is clear that everyone cares deeply about the work they do and the clients they do it for. Everyone on the RSH staff is super friendly, they make it a nice place to be.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by James cummings
Worst law firm ever! They wouldn’t take on my case and they claimed they sent me a letter in the mail explaining why they weren’t able to and I never received anything.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Veronica smith
Complete waste of time and money. This lawyer had my contact info, email, and all evidence (including CCTV, body cam footage, witnesses, medical records, and photographs) for THREE months before my hearing, yet he never reached out to me until just 10 minutes before seeing the judge. He then pressured me into taking a plea deal for something I wasn’t guilty of, despite having concrete evidence to prove my innocence. Because of his lack of preparation, I was forced to discharge from the military and lost my civilian job as an EMT, since I couldn’t be insured to drive an ambulance with this charge on my record. It’s taken me THREE years to finally get re-hired as an EMT. I would’ve been better off with the public defender, who at least would have fought for me. Do not waste your time or money with this lawyer.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Cj coker
RSH Legal is full of highly talented attorneys who are fantastic people, it is clear that everyone cares deeply about the work they do and the clients they do it for. Everyone on the RSH staff is super friendly, they make it a nice place to be.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by James cummings
Worst law firm ever! They wouldn’t take on my case and they claimed they sent me a letter in the mail explaining why they weren’t able to and I never received anything.
Read more
31 Aug, 2020 by Devonte
He did a perfect job, looked out for me and made sure I got his best, down to earth.
Read more
03 May, 2020 by Zach
I was in a severe motor vehicle accident. Initially I was working with a family attorney to recover damages, and due to conflicting views I needed to find new representation. Than I found Tony! I felt we were more on the same page about how I wanted my case to continue. I had been through a lot physically with multiple broken bones and life lasting damages. I didn't want to settle for just a low offer because my damages were substantial but I also wanted a resolution so I could move forward with my life. When I met Tony I told him this and he genuinely seemed to care and understood my position of how I had been through a lot and just wanted a fair deal so I could move forward with my life. Within days/weeks of signing up with Tony Olson I was getting the communication and updates I wanted. I felt that my case was being push to the top of the defense teams pile. After a few months went by I'm glad to say both sides were able to come to an agreement. It was more than fair and even more than I could have asked for! If your looking for an attorney I would highly recommend Tony Olson. Personally I just felt better that somebody listened to my input! Thanks Tony!
Read more
26 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Great guy to work with. Case was settled fast and went very well. Amazed at the process and was very happy with the outcome, strongly recommend him.
Read more
14 Apr, 2019 by Diane
Ann Brown is an excellent lawyer who pointed me in the right direction. She is prompt when returning calls and always professional. I would not hesitate to reach out to her for advice or services again in the future.
Read more
27 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
When my family experienced a very difficult time, we didn't know what to do next. Ann was compassionate, professional, and knowledgeable. She was always available and transparent. We knew we could trust her to represent us fairly. She handled everything from billing to medical claims and everything in between. We were able to recover without the added stress of trying to navigate the system by ourselves. We will highly recommend Ann to anyone.
Read more
05 Mar, 2018 by Janelle
Ann has been an amazing attorney. She helped my family navigate through a very difficult time with professionalism and compassion. She dealt with the insurance companies and medical billing and made a very confusing situation as clear as possible. She was able to address all our concerns and get settlements reached in an incredibly timely fashion. Our family will highly recommend Ann again and again.
Read more
25 Nov, 2024 by Derek potts
Great firm! They work extremely fast and are were very attentive to our needs as a business client. Highly recommend.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Jerry brown
Brady Preston Gronlund PC handled my matter with a level of professionalism that was second to none. Most importantly:
- their assistance alleviated my apprehensions as I could rely on their team to help resolve my issue
- multiple legal colleagues commented what great lawyers I had working with me. This was also reassuring and spoke towards their extended reputation with others in the legal community.
I highly recommend them and am thankful for their help.
Read more
15 May, 2024 by A b
I am a lawyer in New York City who hired Brady Preston Gronlund PC to help me enforce a judgment in Iowa, on behalf of my client. I found BPG to be extremely competent, highly efficient, very reasonably priced, and an overall pleasure to deal with over several years. Even though my matter was a relatively small one, I never doubted that BPG was giving me a 100% effort. I highly recommend their services. From Ariel Berschadsky, Esq.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Veronica smith
Complete waste of time and money. This lawyer had my contact info, email, and all evidence (including CCTV, body cam footage, witnesses, medical records, and photographs) for THREE months before my hearing, yet he never reached out to me until just 10 minutes before seeing the judge. He then pressured me into taking a plea deal for something I wasn’t guilty of, despite having concrete evidence to prove my innocence. Because of his lack of preparation, I was forced to discharge from the military and lost my civilian job as an EMT, since I couldn’t be insured to drive an ambulance with this charge on my record. It’s taken me THREE years to finally get re-hired as an EMT. I would’ve been better off with the public defender, who at least would have fought for me. Do not waste your time or money with this lawyer.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Cj coker
RSH Legal is full of highly talented attorneys who are fantastic people, it is clear that everyone cares deeply about the work they do and the clients they do it for. Everyone on the RSH staff is super friendly, they make it a nice place to be.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by James cummings
Worst law firm ever! They wouldn’t take on my case and they claimed they sent me a letter in the mail explaining why they weren’t able to and I never received anything.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Veronica smith
Complete waste of time and money. This lawyer had my contact info, email, and all evidence (including CCTV, body cam footage, witnesses, medical records, and photographs) for THREE months before my hearing, yet he never reached out to me until just 10 minutes before seeing the judge. He then pressured me into taking a plea deal for something I wasn’t guilty of, despite having concrete evidence to prove my innocence. Because of his lack of preparation, I was forced to discharge from the military and lost my civilian job as an EMT, since I couldn’t be insured to drive an ambulance with this charge on my record. It’s taken me THREE years to finally get re-hired as an EMT. I would’ve been better off with the public defender, who at least would have fought for me. Do not waste your time or money with this lawyer.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Cj coker
RSH Legal is full of highly talented attorneys who are fantastic people, it is clear that everyone cares deeply about the work they do and the clients they do it for. Everyone on the RSH staff is super friendly, they make it a nice place to be.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by James cummings
Worst law firm ever! They wouldn’t take on my case and they claimed they sent me a letter in the mail explaining why they weren’t able to and I never received anything.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Veronica smith
Complete waste of time and money. This lawyer had my contact info, email, and all evidence (including CCTV, body cam footage, witnesses, medical records, and photographs) for THREE months before my hearing, yet he never reached out to me until just 10 minutes before seeing the judge. He then pressured me into taking a plea deal for something I wasn’t guilty of, despite having concrete evidence to prove my innocence. Because of his lack of preparation, I was forced to discharge from the military and lost my civilian job as an EMT, since I couldn’t be insured to drive an ambulance with this charge on my record. It’s taken me THREE years to finally get re-hired as an EMT. I would’ve been better off with the public defender, who at least would have fought for me. Do not waste your time or money with this lawyer.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Cj coker
RSH Legal is full of highly talented attorneys who are fantastic people, it is clear that everyone cares deeply about the work they do and the clients they do it for. Everyone on the RSH staff is super friendly, they make it a nice place to be.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by James cummings
Worst law firm ever! They wouldn’t take on my case and they claimed they sent me a letter in the mail explaining why they weren’t able to and I never received anything.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Veronica smith
Complete waste of time and money. This lawyer had my contact info, email, and all evidence (including CCTV, body cam footage, witnesses, medical records, and photographs) for THREE months before my hearing, yet he never reached out to me until just 10 minutes before seeing the judge. He then pressured me into taking a plea deal for something I wasn’t guilty of, despite having concrete evidence to prove my innocence. Because of his lack of preparation, I was forced to discharge from the military and lost my civilian job as an EMT, since I couldn’t be insured to drive an ambulance with this charge on my record. It’s taken me THREE years to finally get re-hired as an EMT. I would’ve been better off with the public defender, who at least would have fought for me. Do not waste your time or money with this lawyer.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by Cj coker
RSH Legal is full of highly talented attorneys who are fantastic people, it is clear that everyone cares deeply about the work they do and the clients they do it for. Everyone on the RSH staff is super friendly, they make it a nice place to be.
Read more
21 Nov, 2024 by James cummings
Worst law firm ever! They wouldn’t take on my case and they claimed they sent me a letter in the mail explaining why they weren’t able to and I never received anything.
Read more
04 Apr, 2024 by Janet
My SSDI case was quite complicated and therefore no other attorneys would take it on. Phillip was determined to do his best and that's exactly what he did. His communication was great and such a pleasant man to work with. He won it for me!!
Read more
29 Oct, 2020 by Derek r
30 Dec, 2024 by Ronald hala
Darin and his associates went above and beyond to help me with my workman’s compensation case. They listened to my needs and explained the process in a way for me to understand so I could make the best decision for my case. My wife and I are so appreciative of their hard work and dedication. I would highly recommend their firm!!
Sincerely,
Ron Hala
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Jacob schroetter
Darin and his amazing legal team have helped me through much in over a 3 and a half year span. Through many tough times and even the good. I’d trust Darin and his legal team to take care of me and my family time and time again. The best workers compensation legal team I have had the privilege of working with. Communication has been absolutely amazing and updates kept coming in. I could not have asked for a better lawyer and legal team. Very blessed to have found him.
Read more
08 Dec, 2024 by Leah schroetter
03 Oct, 2024 by Nicci ola-olajumoke
re: wills, estate administration, probate.
Read more
26 Jun, 2024 by Shanna m.
17 May, 2024 by Abby leonard
Simmons Perrine is a great firm! The staff and attorneys are knowledgeable and very helpful, I would recommend it to anyone looking for legal services.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Nicci ola-olajumoke
re: wills, estate administration, probate.
Read more
26 Jun, 2024 by Shanna m.
17 May, 2024 by Abby leonard
Simmons Perrine is a great firm! The staff and attorneys are knowledgeable and very helpful, I would recommend it to anyone looking for legal services.
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Loras klostermann
Mindi did an excellent job representing me! She always had my best interests in mind. Mindi kept me informed on all things regarding my case and was quick to respond to all of my questions. She was a pleasure to work with and I highly recommend her!
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Barb pledge
Mindy and Ronda did a great job!
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Kelly schultz
Tom is just so knowledgeable. And he understood the extent of my injury And helped me get a settlement that I was happy with. Terrific law firm.
Read more
26 Jun, 2024 by Shanna m.
17 May, 2024 by Abby leonard
Simmons Perrine is a great firm! The staff and attorneys are knowledgeable and very helpful, I would recommend it to anyone looking for legal services.
Read more
26 Apr, 2024 by Timothy mclees
26 Nov, 2024 by Erik hammer
In case anyone isn't aware, Benjamin shut down both his office in Cedar Radius, and his office in Huxley around the beginning of July. He took payment for my case, and he did complete the case. However, he did not inform me when he shut down his offices, and left me hanging for a month. I believe the only reason he did complete the case was because I contacted the prosecutor myself. I also, in my venture to find him and get answers, contacted his former employer, and she didn't get back to me until four months after the fact.
Shutting down your practice without informing your current clients... Shutting down your practice without closing submissions... Shutting down your practice without shutting down your website... Massive failure as a lawyer and potential ethics violations. Leaving clients without any notice of withdrawal of counsel.... That's extremely unprofessional Ben, and I can now see where such habits were built.
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Always peace
I requested a consult last week using the submission form. I used the BBB site to email them, it has been three business days and no response. I called once and received a recording, did not leave a message due to privacy. Are they out of business or just don't need or want the work ? I will move on.
When I see that CLO responds to another reviewer with "Our attorneys unfortunately cannot contact everyone who believes they have a case" is unprofessional. The web site makes it appear they are well staffed, every request for a consult deserves a response even if it is not a lawyer. Bad customer service and I am a member of their community.
Read more
18 Dec, 2023 by Sarah foley
I’d highly recommend the Community Law Office in Cedar Rapids. Ben is an incredible lawyer. He has been a huge help in guiding us through the process, answering our questions and explaining things so that they make sense. Ben is very knowledgeable, approachable and experienced as a lawyer and gave us great peace of mind going through each step in the process. Thank you Ben and team at CLO for all your support!
Read more
26 Jun, 2024 by Shanna m.
17 May, 2024 by Abby leonard
Simmons Perrine is a great firm! The staff and attorneys are knowledgeable and very helpful, I would recommend it to anyone looking for legal services.
Read more
26 Apr, 2024 by Timothy mclees
11 Mar, 2024 by Robert coker
11 Feb, 2024 by Angel rose
Waited three years for a win for a workman's comp case, but alas they took 25 percent of everything, out of pocket expenses and after being handed the check I'm not so sure it was worth it, I won 95 dollars and a debt that still isn't paid that's actively tank my credit from my accident three years ago. All so I can cash my winnings to immediately give it back to the people that issued it to me. What a scam
Read more
09 Feb, 2024 by Just another patron
Great people here!! I can't say enough about how helpful, friendly, knowledgeable, and on top of it EVERYONE is in this office! If you need to leave a message, they're great about returning calls! Everyone is down to earth and whatever it is you need them for, you won't feel judged, (They've seen and heard it all!).
Hopefully I won't need their assistance again, but, if I do, Matt will be the first person I call (John's wonderful too!)
I highly recommend this firm!
Read more
21 Oct, 2024 by Tim ulferts
Rich Pazdernik will take your money and leave you worse off.
No communication. Early on I met with Rich and he would ask the same questions as if hearing the case for the first time. He never understood it and mixed up names and details in his filings.
Rich quickly turned into a ghost. I documented calling him 18 times over two months before he talked to me for a couple of minutes. I was kept in the dark for months at a time.
Rich never answers questions. He ignores you and does what he wants.
Rich will miss deadlines. I had to call and demand Rich file the Appearance and Answer to my case the day before it was due. I could have lost my case by default.
Ignores Conflicts of Interest. Rich was negligent in checking for conflicts of interest before taking my case. Rich waited 6 months then quit my case because he discovered he previously worked for the guy who is suing me.
Excessive fees. I had to demand a billing 4 times and it took him 25 days to produce. Rich agreed to work for $250/hour but he billed me at $300/hour. He has billing entries for when he was out of town on vacation. It’s also a strange that his billing matches the retainer that I paid him.
Rich left me in the lurch. He quit on me 10 days before Pretrial. He said he would find a replacement attorney and never did. I had to file my own Motion for Continuance to avoid trouble with the court.
New attorney agrees Rich did not provide competent service. I was told the work he did is full of mistakes and done incorrectly. I regret going to Rich Pazdernik, he has caused stress and wasted my time and money. Before writing this review I talked to Rich in good faith about a refund or partial refund. He just gaslights me.
Ethics complaints have been filed against Rich to the Iowa Attorney Disciplinary Board.
Read more
09 Oct, 2022 by Jack b
Pazdernik has done some serious job... After all, he gives deferred judgments, even when there was no probable cause for E-X-T-O-R-T=I-O-N. As for a legal defense, you're better off defending yourself, that is, if you even are issued a summons. So how do you defend yourself from a crime you did not commit, when in an orange jacket? Get a real lawyer, like Mathahs. Take them out for racketeering. They constantly create delinquent debt cases even without crimes. They report people wrong, commit perjury and fraud without any real defense for themselves. If they've tried you wrongly, report them to the DOJ and FBI. 5 stars for reading.
Read more
17 Aug, 2021 by Matthew simcox
Great law firm.
Read more
19 May, 2021 by Kris kinkead
Food is good, consistent every time.
Read more
29 Mar, 2019 by Rex cook
11 Jul, 2016 by Dawn roberts
I have used Pete in the past and found him to be a very polite and patient person. He has a quick mind and you have to pay attention when he speaks , but who wants a slow thinker for an attorney ? Without his help and expertise I would have had a very bad situation turn out much worse.
Read more
19 May, 2021 by Kris kinkead
Food is good, consistent every time.
Read more
29 Mar, 2019 by Rex cook
11 Jul, 2016 by Dawn roberts
I have used Pete in the past and found him to be a very polite and patient person. He has a quick mind and you have to pay attention when he speaks , but who wants a slow thinker for an attorney ? Without his help and expertise I would have had a very bad situation turn out much worse.
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Shawn domer
Daniel L. Seufferlein is a poor excuse for an attorney. Obviously didn’t read the documents I sent him and of course got no resolution. I would have been better off lighting $800 on fire. Would have been equal to the service I got from this place. I would not recommend wasting your time with this law firm.
Read more
18 Aug, 2023 by Pam kregel
Just found out that our will we had done about 20 years ago was shredded as the attorney has retired/left. How dare they shred a legal document that I paid for. They didn't even notify us that this was to happen or did happen. Professional sucks!
Read more
01 Nov, 2022 by Tamela neal
17 Feb, 2021 by Lisa faust
Very helpful and professional. Documents were easily completed. Great prices.
Read more
20 Dec, 2020 by John p
20 Dec, 2020 by Josh dumler
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
