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08 Aug, 2024 by Thomas hitchcock
05 Jul, 2023 by Reyad elsadek
29 Aug, 2022 by Celina glitta
I went to Mr. Clinton in distress when I was experiencing some issues at law school. Thankfully, I ended up just transferring to another law school and ultimately did not pursue my issues. I am still writing this review years later because I feel reviews can help people so much when selecting an attorney and my consultation with Mr. Clinton is one that really helped me to find peace.
Attorney Clinton came across as a very knowledgeable and helpful person. I have interacted with many attorneys as I am one myself and I can honestly say that very few were as kind as Mr. Clinton. Oftentimes, attorneys can be snippy, but he was not. He is honest about if he can help you or not. At the same time, he remains a very sympathetic person whether he can help you or not. Rest assured, you can tell him your about your possible case and all your problems with no judgment. I also like the types of cases he worked on. I felt they were very noble causes and this was the reason I called him to begin with when I was having the issues I was having.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Thomas hitchcock
05 Jul, 2023 by Reyad elsadek
29 Aug, 2022 by Celina glitta
I went to Mr. Clinton in distress when I was experiencing some issues at law school. Thankfully, I ended up just transferring to another law school and ultimately did not pursue my issues. I am still writing this review years later because I feel reviews can help people so much when selecting an attorney and my consultation with Mr. Clinton is one that really helped me to find peace.
Attorney Clinton came across as a very knowledgeable and helpful person. I have interacted with many attorneys as I am one myself and I can honestly say that very few were as kind as Mr. Clinton. Oftentimes, attorneys can be snippy, but he was not. He is honest about if he can help you or not. At the same time, he remains a very sympathetic person whether he can help you or not. Rest assured, you can tell him your about your possible case and all your problems with no judgment. I also like the types of cases he worked on. I felt they were very noble causes and this was the reason I called him to begin with when I was having the issues I was having.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Thomas hitchcock
05 Jul, 2023 by Reyad elsadek
29 Aug, 2022 by Celina glitta
I went to Mr. Clinton in distress when I was experiencing some issues at law school. Thankfully, I ended up just transferring to another law school and ultimately did not pursue my issues. I am still writing this review years later because I feel reviews can help people so much when selecting an attorney and my consultation with Mr. Clinton is one that really helped me to find peace.
Attorney Clinton came across as a very knowledgeable and helpful person. I have interacted with many attorneys as I am one myself and I can honestly say that very few were as kind as Mr. Clinton. Oftentimes, attorneys can be snippy, but he was not. He is honest about if he can help you or not. At the same time, he remains a very sympathetic person whether he can help you or not. Rest assured, you can tell him your about your possible case and all your problems with no judgment. I also like the types of cases he worked on. I felt they were very noble causes and this was the reason I called him to begin with when I was having the issues I was having.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Thomas hitchcock
05 Jul, 2023 by Reyad elsadek
29 Aug, 2022 by Celina glitta
I went to Mr. Clinton in distress when I was experiencing some issues at law school. Thankfully, I ended up just transferring to another law school and ultimately did not pursue my issues. I am still writing this review years later because I feel reviews can help people so much when selecting an attorney and my consultation with Mr. Clinton is one that really helped me to find peace.
Attorney Clinton came across as a very knowledgeable and helpful person. I have interacted with many attorneys as I am one myself and I can honestly say that very few were as kind as Mr. Clinton. Oftentimes, attorneys can be snippy, but he was not. He is honest about if he can help you or not. At the same time, he remains a very sympathetic person whether he can help you or not. Rest assured, you can tell him your about your possible case and all your problems with no judgment. I also like the types of cases he worked on. I felt they were very noble causes and this was the reason I called him to begin with when I was having the issues I was having.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Thomas hitchcock
05 Jul, 2023 by Reyad elsadek
29 Aug, 2022 by Celina glitta
I went to Mr. Clinton in distress when I was experiencing some issues at law school. Thankfully, I ended up just transferring to another law school and ultimately did not pursue my issues. I am still writing this review years later because I feel reviews can help people so much when selecting an attorney and my consultation with Mr. Clinton is one that really helped me to find peace.
Attorney Clinton came across as a very knowledgeable and helpful person. I have interacted with many attorneys as I am one myself and I can honestly say that very few were as kind as Mr. Clinton. Oftentimes, attorneys can be snippy, but he was not. He is honest about if he can help you or not. At the same time, he remains a very sympathetic person whether he can help you or not. Rest assured, you can tell him your about your possible case and all your problems with no judgment. I also like the types of cases he worked on. I felt they were very noble causes and this was the reason I called him to begin with when I was having the issues I was having.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Thomas hitchcock
05 Jul, 2023 by Reyad elsadek
29 Aug, 2022 by Celina glitta
I went to Mr. Clinton in distress when I was experiencing some issues at law school. Thankfully, I ended up just transferring to another law school and ultimately did not pursue my issues. I am still writing this review years later because I feel reviews can help people so much when selecting an attorney and my consultation with Mr. Clinton is one that really helped me to find peace.
Attorney Clinton came across as a very knowledgeable and helpful person. I have interacted with many attorneys as I am one myself and I can honestly say that very few were as kind as Mr. Clinton. Oftentimes, attorneys can be snippy, but he was not. He is honest about if he can help you or not. At the same time, he remains a very sympathetic person whether he can help you or not. Rest assured, you can tell him your about your possible case and all your problems with no judgment. I also like the types of cases he worked on. I felt they were very noble causes and this was the reason I called him to begin with when I was having the issues I was having.
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11 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Before you sign the contract to hire, do your research! I was in so much pain and given no direction for this WC process, so I hired this unknown company.
After meeting in person and signing the contract, I felt it continued to go downhill from there.
He would not return calls or emails unless I begged multiple times. Medical & prescriptions were being held back by opposing counsel & David Froylan was unable to persuade in my favor anything...which I continued to suffer.
I had to use my personal insurance to get my surgery done 10 months after being hurt on the job.
Bedside manners is what they call it for doctors but I can only say it was neglect as an attorney who only cared about his vacation time and the other 50 cases he was juggling.
My TTD was cutoff even though I had medical scripts from multiple doctors stating I could not work.
In the end of course his company got 20% of that along with the usual stuff.
I clearly will never send anyone to this firm.
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15 Sep, 2015 by Edgar
Attorney Froylan has been very helpful with my Workers Comp. case and was also able to advise me on a liability case as well for negligence on the part of the crane operations company. He has explained the entire process to me and his staff has also been helpful with my questions and concerns regarding my medical bills. I recommend him to my friends all the time.
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12 Feb, 2015 by Emmy
A friend of mine referred me to Mr. Froylan. He was professional and honest. He was able to get my benefits reinstated and get my surgery approved. After trial, I was awarded a weekly check for the rest of my life. I highly recommend him!
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23 Dec, 2014 by Michael
Attorney Fulco has provided quality representation to the company while at the same time holding our litigation costs at a reasonable level. She always adheres to our case handling standards and billing requirements. She is responsive to our questions and inquiries, keeping us informed and up-to-date. I respect her professionalism as a partner in handling litigation. She identifies the issues and moves to resolve them expeditiously. She tells you what you should be thinking so that you can move the matter to resolution without incurring unnecessary costs. She is not afraid to try a case and is well prepared to do so should the matter proceed to trial.
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11 Apr, 2014 by Michael
It has been my professional privilege to have worked closely with Stacy involving complex defense litigation. The outcomes have been favorable with minimal payout from the corporation largely due to the expert and knowledgeable counsel of Stacy Dolan Fulco. Stacy is an asset to any business. It is a source of pride that this review is given.
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11 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
I am a Casualty Claims Manager for a national retailer and I have been working with Stacy for over 10 years. She has handled hundreds of cases for us and I have always been extremely happy with her work. She is responsive, organized, significantly involved in the handling of all of her files, focused on case strategy and always looking for a way to reach our ultimate goal of file closure. She is also very efficient with her time and billing. I would highly recommend Stacy as counsel for any retailer or business.
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11 Jan, 2023 by Sonia lopez
15 Sep, 2022 by Bonnie dresmal
Highly recommend Mr Newman! He truly cares about his clients.
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30 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Patricia Lannon handled a workman's compensation case for me. I never actually met with her face to face. Everything was handled through the mail or over the phone. When I would call her office, I rarely was able to speak with her. For the most part, her legal assistants handled my calls. At times they were very rude. They didn't get back to me in a very timely matter. Sometimes it would be days before I received an answer to a question. There were times when I didn't even know who I was speaking with or when the person I was talking to had no idea about my case. I had quite a few problems with the insurance company that I feel could've been handled better if I'd had better representation. Patricia didn't take the time to get to know me. My experience with her firm was very cold. They were not very personable or easy to talk to. They did not keep me informed about my case. I always had to contact them first. In the end, they were very quick to settle my case. It seemed that the firm was overloaded with cases, which caused me to feel like my case was not important. I would not recommend this firm to anyone. My personal opinion would be to find a smaller firm where you can receive personal one on one attention and actually meet with the person who will be representing you and your case.
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07 Apr, 2018 by Samuel
I have hired Tom Plouff many times in my life and he has handled my case with professionalism. Tom explain everything in a simple manner so that I understand and also listen to me very carefully. I was fortunate to have Tom as my personal injury lawyer, he was always proactive and keep me informed what was happening. I would like to say thank you to Tom Plouff for his professional work and really happy with his best and affordable services.
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22 May, 2009 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Fedick to go after someone who blew a red light and rear-ended me. He ended up going after both the driver and his company and not only got all of my bills taken care of, but also got me some money for pain and suffering.
He's a nice guy and knows his stuff, but I would have liked him even more if he gave me advanced warnings (not 24 hours or less) when I needed to be downtown because I was living out of IL at the time.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Ali alrefae
I am incredibly grateful to Mr. Judd Azulay and his team for their exceptional guidance and unwavering support throughout my long journey to obtaining my green card. From the moment I sought their counsel, Mr. Azulay's deep expertise and strategic advice were invaluable. His proactive approach and thorough understanding of immigration law laid a solid foundation for my case.
Throughout the process, Mr. Azulay's team, especially Vangie Abron, played a crucial role with her meticulous attention to detail and relentless pursuit of accuracy in every document and application. Her dedication ensured that everything was in order, which was instrumental in achieving a positive outcome.
Thanks to their professionalism and commitment, I now hold my green card, marking the end of a challenging yet ultimately successful journey. I cannot recommend Mr. Azulay and his team highly enough for anyone navigating the complexities of immigration law. They truly go above and beyond for their clients.
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17 Nov, 2023 by Bojan djokic
Do your research before you meet with any lawyer in USA.I made mistake and I didn’t,now this is going to cost me nice amount of money but what is more important you’re going to waste your time which is irretrievable.
If you are thin with nerves you can bet you’ll stay without those if you get in any deal with this firm.
I came to this office by recommendation of my friend and that’s why I never done any research on them but if you’re reading this today you are on the good path.If you check the reviews you’ll notice majority of them are negative and from my experience I’ll tell that they are true.
I’m not ever writing reviews but I had to this one because I won’t be able to sleep if I don’t.
I had consultation with MR Ira about my case 3 months ago.Since my case is open for a few years now we had lot of things to talk about.
MR Ira looked great and gave impression that he’s decent,all you wish for,attorney.
I told him right away that the only problem I had with my previous attorney was that I felt like I’ve been pushed a side from.When you’re paying someone 500$ per hour you don’t want to be forgotten and to remind them you’re still around.Not sure if only I feel this way.
He promised that’s not happening with him.
I paid him 2800$ for paperwork transfer,he even charged for paper that he’ll use printing those which supposed to be red flag right away but I already wrote I got there by recommendation.The deal was that once he goes through the paperwork for my case he’ll give me a call and we’ll make strategy how we’ll proceed with the case.
After 3 months I still hadn’t heard from anyone from this office beside the lady on front desk since she’s answering and attorney there is always busy or whatever.
I tried calling several times,left voicemails,sent emails,left messages wit front desk lady.You can guess what happened
NOTHING
So my advice to you readers.
If you have money that you don’t need and you like your time wasted go visit this firm,they are waiting for you.
Don’t be naive like I was
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09 Jul, 2023 by Abdullah al-areeqi
5 years ago I had a complicated asylum case and Mr Ira gave me all the answers I needed and helped me get my green card he really knows what is he doing, professional, honest, and friendly, highly recommended.
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14 Nov, 2023 by Fr jeffrey jean
Bien
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31 Dec, 2019 by Ronda c. smith-porter
07 Sep, 2024 by Kelly leonetti
We were referred to Schwartz / Jambois firm through a friend. Mac Hertz represented us in a personal injury car accident case. Mac is professional, thorough, compassionate and took time in explaining and guiding us through every step of the process. I was impressed with his continual updates and personal attention to our case. While encountering some challenges he proceeded to overcome all of them.
We settled exactly 2 years to the date of our accident. We are very happy with the outcome and will recommend Mac Hertz.
Thank you,
Lou & Kelly Leonetti
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06 Sep, 2024 by Cassandra g theodosopoulos
04 Sep, 2024 by Cynthia alderson
Colin was so professional and was great in terms of negotiating the best settlement possible. Highly reccommended!
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07 Sep, 2024 by Kelly leonetti
We were referred to Schwartz / Jambois firm through a friend. Mac Hertz represented us in a personal injury car accident case. Mac is professional, thorough, compassionate and took time in explaining and guiding us through every step of the process. I was impressed with his continual updates and personal attention to our case. While encountering some challenges he proceeded to overcome all of them.
We settled exactly 2 years to the date of our accident. We are very happy with the outcome and will recommend Mac Hertz.
Thank you,
Lou & Kelly Leonetti
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06 Sep, 2024 by Cassandra g theodosopoulos
04 Sep, 2024 by Cynthia alderson
Colin was so professional and was great in terms of negotiating the best settlement possible. Highly reccommended!
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26 Mar, 2024 by Willie
If you NEED AN ATTORNEY ERIC GLASSON is the ONE! Eric Glasson is someone you can TRUST! He took my case on and gave it the attention that it DESERVED! I HIGHLY SUGGEST that you give him a call FIRST!
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05 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
I was their client started in 2019 and my case didn't get resolved until yesterday December 2023. After becoming my personal injury attorney they transferred my case to another law firm where they added a hefty amount of litigation costs on top of the alleged third they were already getting. Dont go with thi law office they nickel and dime after they get the settlement. They don't keep you in the loop on the case at all. They charge you to request medical records and they charge for filing the complaint with the court.
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28 Dec, 2022 by Laura
I am so happy I hired him. I was getting the run around from my other lawyer, I hired his firm and they got it done. complicated case as I have had prior injuries. what a great litigator. listening to him argue, he blew the opposing lawyer away. we got way more than I even thought I would get after the other lawyer told me i would get nothing. Hes a fighter!
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5.0
9 Reviews
3.5
40 Reviews
18 Nov, 2024 by Andriy hryhoryshyn
18 Nov, 2024 by Jeff pink
Bradford and Elizabeth have helped us with multiple closings over the past five years. Always accessible, responsible, and competent. We could ask for nothing more in these stress filled transactions.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Nicolette o'connor
06 Jul, 2024 by Rian marquez
My experience with Attorney Curtis Ross was nothing short of a nightmare. From the outset, he displayed a level of rudeness and disrespect that was utterly appalling. When I sought clarification on certain legal matters, he dismissed my concerns with the utmost arrogance, labeling my questions as "idiotic."
Instead of fulfilling his role as a legal advocate, he left me to fend for myself in court, all the while painting a false picture of me as argumentative. His complete lack of support and guidance was both shocking and deeply disappointing.
Save yourself the headache and avoid hiring Curtis Ross at all costs. He is an utter disgrace to the legal profession and will leave you high and dry when you need support the most.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Quentin
Great Lawyer, Defended My Son, Was Very Transparent And Informative During The Process. Assured And Reassured My Son Everything Would Work Out And It Did. Case Was Dropped And I’m Very Thankful That We Hired Nichole. Thank U For Ur Services
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28 Oct, 2022 by Susan dotson
He's 76 years old and very forgetful. If you're lucky, Curtis Ross will remember to provide zoom information. If he has a bad day he may forget and you could miss court or be very late. He loves to celebrate every holiday and disappear days before court. Do you want him to prepare before court? Do you want to be prepped before court? If the answer is "no" pay his $5,000 retainer and $375.00 an hour.
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16 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney John Eliasik and his team helped me get a check after I was hurt in a wreck. They are smart and understand injury law. John also helped me after I got hurt moving furniture at work. Highly recommended.
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19 Dec, 2020 by Robert
I’ve worked opposite him for years on many cases and through many battles. John is an attorney who goes to bat for his clients. He’s not one to back down or sell out.
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14 Dec, 2020 by Gina
Had a great experience with Eliasik. Honest and trustworthy! If you need help, you should hire him.
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17 May, 2022 by Miterman 43
29 Apr, 2022 by Mike qualizza
Some of the most CROOKED lawyers in America. Client Beware. Bills to the sky, and legal work that is garbage.
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03 Feb, 2022 by Javi bueno
Tabet Divito & Rothstein LLC is an accomplished law firm with seasoned attorneys on a variety of complex commercial and corporate litigation engagements. Our company had a very positive experience with the firm. The attorneys communicated well and effectively worked with us on a complex case. We highly recommend Tabet Divito & Rothstein for anyone looking for a quality boutique Firm.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Amy lilliebridge
09 Feb, 2024 by Jasmine jimenez
Took a veteran as a client and then left the case. The veteran was described as starved into submission by Jeffrey Strange in a court transcript in that case. #badapples
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18 Aug, 2022 by Joey nemeth
Patterson Law Firm was efficient and reliable in their communication about my case and worked with me to the very end to address my needs. I would recommend this law firm to my friends and family.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Royalle brown
Overall not a good experience. Was attempting to file chapter 7 bankruptcy and submitted all required paperwork in October. A month later I still have no updates. On a business aspect it’s never good to tell a consumer you are going to do something and not do it. So I highly would not recommend you to file here if you are looking to file bankruptcy and looking to do it in a timely manner.
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09 Nov, 2023 by Frank scheid
Mr White is great. He will work with you. To me you could not ask for anything more. If you need a lawyer for your bankruptcy need please go to Mr White. He will get it down for you.
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04 Aug, 2023 by Jeremy humpherys
Great firm to handle your Bankruptcy. Highly recommend them!
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05 May, 2023 by Jamie lowe
First I would like to share my gratitude for great amount of compassion and professionalism that Julita and Magda provided for my family and property sale. The sale was very cumbersome. Magda maintained an open line of communication and timely response to questions and pertinent matters. I strongly recommend utilizing them for all of your real estate needs. Thank you for all that you have done.
Sincerely,
Jamie Lowe
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10 Aug, 2022 by Karla moreira araya
Julita represented us in our very first home purchase and we appreciate how clear she made the process for us, timely email communication and a lot of paperwork explaining. Would absolutely recommend!
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27 Apr, 2022 by Tom gasiewski
VERY UNPROFESSIONAL!!!! I lost $2000 after closing thanks to them
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23 Oct, 2024 by Chris puranen
28 Apr, 2022 by Nicholas kokoris
Jim Branit of Litchfield might be one of the best, toughest and most knowledgeable litigators in Chicago. I've been placing lawyers since 1987 and Branit and Litchfield come very highly recommended by Juristech.
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11 May, 2020 by Eric suarez
24 May, 2024 by Paula johnson
I had an amazing experience with Affordable Legal. The team made my chapter 7 filing a very smooth process! Great service and great price only $598.00 Don’t hesitate give them a call and get your fresh start.
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23 May, 2024 by Erica hardaway825
Sue has worked on a few cases of mine over the years and she's the best! Always professional, makes sure I understand everything, she's extremely patient, caring and kind!
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03 May, 2024 by Brian susman
Won't let you in to speak with anyone, even current clients
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24 May, 2024 by Paula johnson
I had an amazing experience with Affordable Legal. The team made my chapter 7 filing a very smooth process! Great service and great price only $598.00 Don’t hesitate give them a call and get your fresh start.
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23 May, 2024 by Erica hardaway825
Sue has worked on a few cases of mine over the years and she's the best! Always professional, makes sure I understand everything, she's extremely patient, caring and kind!
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Brian susman
Won't let you in to speak with anyone, even current clients
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24 May, 2024 by Paula johnson
I had an amazing experience with Affordable Legal. The team made my chapter 7 filing a very smooth process! Great service and great price only $598.00 Don’t hesitate give them a call and get your fresh start.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Erica hardaway825
Sue has worked on a few cases of mine over the years and she's the best! Always professional, makes sure I understand everything, she's extremely patient, caring and kind!
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Brian susman
Won't let you in to speak with anyone, even current clients
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Paula johnson
I had an amazing experience with Affordable Legal. The team made my chapter 7 filing a very smooth process! Great service and great price only $598.00 Don’t hesitate give them a call and get your fresh start.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Erica hardaway825
Sue has worked on a few cases of mine over the years and she's the best! Always professional, makes sure I understand everything, she's extremely patient, caring and kind!
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Brian susman
Won't let you in to speak with anyone, even current clients
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Paula johnson
I had an amazing experience with Affordable Legal. The team made my chapter 7 filing a very smooth process! Great service and great price only $598.00 Don’t hesitate give them a call and get your fresh start.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Erica hardaway825
Sue has worked on a few cases of mine over the years and she's the best! Always professional, makes sure I understand everything, she's extremely patient, caring and kind!
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Brian susman
Won't let you in to speak with anyone, even current clients
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Paula johnson
I had an amazing experience with Affordable Legal. The team made my chapter 7 filing a very smooth process! Great service and great price only $598.00 Don’t hesitate give them a call and get your fresh start.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Erica hardaway825
Sue has worked on a few cases of mine over the years and she's the best! Always professional, makes sure I understand everything, she's extremely patient, caring and kind!
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Brian susman
Won't let you in to speak with anyone, even current clients
Read more
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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.
