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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
05 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
He takes forever to do anything on a case. He knew nothing about my file. He give me very broad and general information that I am sure he feed all his clients. When you ask something specific about your case he can't answer you. And the more questions you as the louder he gets with you like your a bother and he uses the "I've been doing this for years" speech. If you disagree with him and try and voice your opinion you get the well I can just withdraw from your case and you will be stuck with no attorney. He is very unprofessional and I would never recommend him to anyone and just tell everyone stay away.
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30 May, 2017 by Anonymous
It took Mr. Nemeroff 17 years to settle a claim to where I lost Approx. $80,000 in a vehicle accident and he settled for $6,000
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17 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
I was pleased how Attorney David Nemeroff handled my personal injury case. He showed excellent legal expertise in the area of personal injury, rapport and compassion and protected my interests flawlessly. I could highly recommend this reliable professional.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Bigmule64
It’s like the police investing the police.There are no ethics left in America Land of the Free!Just look at the US Supreme Court!
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02 Jun, 2024 by Matt r
Have to be diligent with this organization. You may get positive results. I wouldn't file complaints over minor disputes with an attorney. If the attorney is not working out request the attorney to take their fee and send the remainder back. Not worth paying an attorney that is not interested in defending your rights and adequately representing your side.
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11 May, 2024 by Toni mc
Did not help me at ALL it’s like they work with the lawyers they sent my case to Texas then back to Chicago not recommended at ALL my lawyer got away with a lot
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22 Jun, 2020 by Erdenebolor jambaa
05 Mar, 2018 by Connie tatlonghari nano
Attorney Mary Carmen helped me a lot on those days I needed help regarding my citenship. She is very compassionate that will ease your mind. She is very professional as what the saying goes: you got what you paid for. And most importantly she will not leave you in the air she is always available if you have question. I am now a U.S CITIZEN.
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15 Nov, 2016 by John vincent yang (jv yang)
22 Jun, 2020 by Erdenebolor jambaa
05 Mar, 2018 by Connie tatlonghari nano
Attorney Mary Carmen helped me a lot on those days I needed help regarding my citenship. She is very compassionate that will ease your mind. She is very professional as what the saying goes: you got what you paid for. And most importantly she will not leave you in the air she is always available if you have question. I am now a U.S CITIZEN.
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15 Nov, 2016 by John vincent yang (jv yang)
22 Jun, 2020 by Erdenebolor jambaa
05 Mar, 2018 by Connie tatlonghari nano
Attorney Mary Carmen helped me a lot on those days I needed help regarding my citenship. She is very compassionate that will ease your mind. She is very professional as what the saying goes: you got what you paid for. And most importantly she will not leave you in the air she is always available if you have question. I am now a U.S CITIZEN.
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15 Nov, 2016 by John vincent yang (jv yang)
28 May, 2024 by Chris rose
13 May, 2024 by Omar javed
Doesn't even go to voice-mail anymore. Just a busy signal. THE PEOPLE HAVE NOBODY WHO TRULY REPRESENTS THEM. THE ALMIGHTY DOLLAR IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN PEOPLE. IM READY TO SEE THE FALL OF ALL YOU FAKE POLITICIANS AND GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONS!
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08 May, 2024 by David chacon
Christopher was very informative to my needs and gave me the info I needed thanks again for your help
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08 Aug, 2024 by Bigmule64
It’s like the police investing the police.There are no ethics left in America Land of the Free!Just look at the US Supreme Court!
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02 Jun, 2024 by Matt r
Have to be diligent with this organization. You may get positive results. I wouldn't file complaints over minor disputes with an attorney. If the attorney is not working out request the attorney to take their fee and send the remainder back. Not worth paying an attorney that is not interested in defending your rights and adequately representing your side.
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11 May, 2024 by Toni mc
Did not help me at ALL it’s like they work with the lawyers they sent my case to Texas then back to Chicago not recommended at ALL my lawyer got away with a lot
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07 Feb, 2019 by George
Great work on a personal injury case. Affordable and responsive. Definitely knows what he is doing. Very busy but gets to the point and gets the job done.
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28 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Went in for a consultation. He seemed more interested in discussing his contract but he told he would take my case and I was optimistic.
After that, it was impossible to contact him. I tried to get updates and not once did he call me back. Then, two weeks later he contacted me out of the blue and told me he would not take my case without giving me any reason. If you would like to be yanked around and have your time wasted, absolutely give him a visit!
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15 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I have only spoken to him once.and after that it's always me calling and speaking to his secretary who give out the wrong information.Never get a call back from him.secretary is rude and feel if someone is bothering her when you call.He seemed to be ok in the when I sign the contract but after that no communication from him.very disappointing and frustrating.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Bigmule64
It’s like the police investing the police.There are no ethics left in America Land of the Free!Just look at the US Supreme Court!
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02 Jun, 2024 by Matt r
Have to be diligent with this organization. You may get positive results. I wouldn't file complaints over minor disputes with an attorney. If the attorney is not working out request the attorney to take their fee and send the remainder back. Not worth paying an attorney that is not interested in defending your rights and adequately representing your side.
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11 May, 2024 by Toni mc
Did not help me at ALL it’s like they work with the lawyers they sent my case to Texas then back to Chicago not recommended at ALL my lawyer got away with a lot
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15 Dec, 2023 by Lori wibicki
14 Dec, 2023 by Darwin paucar
Exelente
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15 Nov, 2023 by Daisy liu
Their attorney David Sugar is a psychopath, enjoying torturing others and snooping others privacy. He only cares about his own profits not the clients. He does the work as slowly as he can to get paid more. Just horrible.
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21 Aug, 2014 by Chris
this is the worst law firm in history should not be in business continue to switch attorney i have went through 4 to 5 different attorney in this law firm which doesnt make since at all one min my case was settling then the next min we got to get some paper work down my case have been going on for two years and continuing for a worker compensation which all is needed is paper work to be signed which of have already done an now have to do it again which doesnt make since i would not recommend this law firm to anyone not even in desperate need or even if they was the last one on earth do it your self
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21 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Check out his disciplinary history. Do not trust him. His partner, Goodman, is very timid and afraid to go to court. There are much better and more ethical attorneys.
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26 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
I have been working with Mr. Pomper for years. He handles all his cases effectively and always keeps me updated
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21 Sep, 2024 by Dontia seals
I recently had a frustrating experience with my case, primarily due to how it was handled by Muldoon. From the start, I felt I wasn’t adequately represented; my concerns seemed to take a backseat to other priorities. The situation became even more complicated when it was revealed that the third party involved didn’t carry proper insurance. Rather than advocating for my interests, Muldoon appeared more focused on closing the case quickly, which left me feeling sidelined. Overall, I expected a more proactive approach, but instead, I felt dismissed and unsupported throughout the process.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Jim schultz
Great attorneys specializing in p.i.
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30 Sep, 2020 by M m
21 Sep, 2024 by Dontia seals
I recently had a frustrating experience with my case, primarily due to how it was handled by Muldoon. From the start, I felt I wasn’t adequately represented; my concerns seemed to take a backseat to other priorities. The situation became even more complicated when it was revealed that the third party involved didn’t carry proper insurance. Rather than advocating for my interests, Muldoon appeared more focused on closing the case quickly, which left me feeling sidelined. Overall, I expected a more proactive approach, but instead, I felt dismissed and unsupported throughout the process.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Jim schultz
Great attorneys specializing in p.i.
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30 Sep, 2020 by M m
21 Sep, 2024 by Dontia seals
I recently had a frustrating experience with my case, primarily due to how it was handled by Muldoon. From the start, I felt I wasn’t adequately represented; my concerns seemed to take a backseat to other priorities. The situation became even more complicated when it was revealed that the third party involved didn’t carry proper insurance. Rather than advocating for my interests, Muldoon appeared more focused on closing the case quickly, which left me feeling sidelined. Overall, I expected a more proactive approach, but instead, I felt dismissed and unsupported throughout the process.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Jim schultz
Great attorneys specializing in p.i.
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30 Sep, 2020 by M m
21 Sep, 2024 by Dontia seals
I recently had a frustrating experience with my case, primarily due to how it was handled by Muldoon. From the start, I felt I wasn’t adequately represented; my concerns seemed to take a backseat to other priorities. The situation became even more complicated when it was revealed that the third party involved didn’t carry proper insurance. Rather than advocating for my interests, Muldoon appeared more focused on closing the case quickly, which left me feeling sidelined. Overall, I expected a more proactive approach, but instead, I felt dismissed and unsupported throughout the process.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Jim schultz
Great attorneys specializing in p.i.
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30 Sep, 2020 by M m
17 Oct, 2023 by Daeveon
Started off good. Great communication, paid for my Lyfts to get back and fourth to physical therapy, after I finished everything went dark. All phone calls goes straight to voicemail now haven’t heard from anyone for almost 2 months now. I just want an update on my case.
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03 Sep, 2023 by Micah upshaw
Ms. Kladis represented me with all her might and I truly appreciate her as well as everyone at Walner Law who made me feel safe and secure in knowing they would champion cause.
Thank you so very much.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Patrick
Jennifer has been an exceptional addition to the Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard team. She is an expert in her field, but more importantly, she is a compassionate advocate for her clients. Her concern for her clients is evident in the results she has achieved. I am proud to have her as part of the SSP team and look forward to seeing the wonderful things she is able to accomplish in her career.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I met with Jennifer for a consultation. Our conversation was respectful and gentle in regards to my sexual assault case, which was a very sensitive matter. I hired her officially in September/signed the contracts. Goin forward it was almost impossible to get in communication with her many times times. Her and her partner went almost 2 months without responding to an important question about my evidence, resulting in me having to contact the firm for an answer. This went on September through March, that they said was only going to take "a few weeks," to get my medical records and draft a complaint. Every time I asked for an update they just kept saying a few more weeks and we'd file the complaint, which dragged on until March. I eventually received a phone call from the firm that they didn't didn't have the resources to handle my case and that they were dropping it after months of me waiting on them. They confirmed it was dropped because they wanted more filings against the location my sexual assault took place so they didn't want to waste their money and time on solely my case. This wasn't communicated to me prior of why they were waiting months after they kept saying "a few more weeks." This was my first time ever needing a lawyer for anything, as I am quite young, so I felt very betrayed and taken advantage of for my lenience and confusion on what lawyers do. I never heard from Jennifer directly that she was dropping it, I just never heard from her again. After reading cases she's won, she seems good at what she does when she cares about your case, but mine was really messed up because of her lack of communication and commitment. Don't recommend for sexual assault survivors!
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20 Mar, 2014 by Alice
Mr. Ponne is a wonderful attorney. He handled my case with such professionalism. He was able to get me a settlement in an amount that far exceeded my expectations. I would definitely recommend Tom Ponne as an attorney. He definitely will fight for what is right!
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04 Dec, 2013 by Susan
These guys are a bunch of jokers, the staff is rude and does not know what they are doing. They cost me more money than I got out of the lawsuit. The attorney does not know what he is doing and was really bad about getting back to me. The whole experience was frustrating.
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04 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Stay away from this man. He is a mess in every aspect of his life. He does not know what respect is and I would stay far away from this black hole of a person. I recently learned he lies to State Farm and that is the only reason he is still in business. There are emails that he wrote all over the internet. He is a complete mess mentally, emotionally, and verbally.
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31 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Joseph DiPino is one of the most genuine, down to earth, human beings you will meet. His ability to be upfront and honest with you while maintaining a personal connection is one of his greatest attributes. While dealing with DiPino on a personal level, he has been nothing but a complete professional in every situation. When DiPino speaks, you know that you are receiving the honest truth and there is no beating around the bush. This man should be at the very top of your list.
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07 Apr, 2020 by Jen
Ms. Warzynski has handled our medical group's collection work for ten years. She has done a terrific job for us. We highly recommend her.
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06 Nov, 2019 by D.white
We have been trying to contact her regarding an invalid collection account from 2009... We have everything we need to prove its invalid because my son was a minor and we never received bills because they were sending them to the wrong place for 10years and now that we finally received notice of the debt we can't get on touch with her..even the doctor's office confirmed it was invalid because he was a minor and they collection agency pulled his name without doing the math... Of course we are on a time limit and NOPE no contact from her and haven't been able to find a physical address to work with..I can't send certified documents to a PO Box .nobody cares nobody wants to help..just keep running in circles...Why can't we get an address why can't we get a call back or email ANYTHING.
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17 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Vasilatos is an excellent lawyer. Very patient and always willing to explain things multiple times. He never rushes you and is very responsive.
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19 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
No feedback, had to look elsewhere for information pertaining to my case.
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28 Mar, 2019 by Nick
I had a terrible time at work,I injured my knee and then the horror started between me and the insurance agency...I was under work. Comp. For two years and they always were being late with issuing my pay checks,approving my physical therapy, ect... and I feel lost at some point,until I heard about James McHargue and I decided to go and have a consultation with him about my case.
Not only he put my pay stubs and my doctor's visits in order, but he also took the case in court and after long battle we won! I could not feel more thankful to him and I highly reccomend his services to everyone! He definately knows what he is doing!
5 stars from me
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09 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
I had a dog bite injury case in 2010. This lawyer took 5 years to do anything regarding insurance on this case. I always had to make calls for updates over the years. I felt like I was completely unimportant to James or Dan. They asked for pictures, years later, which I sent numerous times. Yet they demanded I come all the way downtown for more pictures. I explained to them I can't drive due to my health, and Chicago is an hour an a half from me. Plus $20-40 in parking and has money, I couldn't afford for a 10 minute meeting was a ridiculous request but they didn't care. They barely did any work on my case, and 5 years to get only a 5k increase. FIVE YEARS. Then they expect to get paid when they didn't do anything and I'm no longer a client. Find a better lawyer than Jame's firm that will actually make you a priority and so actual work.
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29 Oct, 2021 by Frederick
Dave went above and beyond in his representation for me! He kept me updated on the case throughout the litigation process and was always available to talk when I needed him. I would definitely hire him again and recommend him to anyone injured in a personal injury case!
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10 Oct, 2021 by Nona
Starshak was one of the lawyers with Horwitz and Horwitz that represented me for a bus accident I had at Ohare airport. Starshak was assigned to the case much later after the accident happened so, he can't be blamed for not talking to witnesses right after I signed up with the firm but, time does cause memories to fade. He was good at returning calls, emails and scheduling meetings when I requested. There were problems though that no client would want to experience. You would think that a lawyer would depose the police that wrote the accident report that backed up my position of how the accident happened and what the witnesses on the bus told him. You would think that a lawyer would depose my Supervisor that wrote up a separate report from when he was on the scene about the injuries witnesses on the bus told him they had. That didn't happen. Instead of Starshak showing up in court on status hearings, a stand by lawyer would usually show up and that resulted in an instance where the stand by lawyer had to refute via an Affidavit allegations Opposing Counsel alleged the stand by lawyer made in a proceeding. The Judge in response to the Affidavit issue ended up ruling in favor of Opposing Counsel as to his medical expert. The settlement discussion went down the drain at that point. When a lawyer has time management issues they use stand by lawyers. I never even found a Notice of Appearance for any of the stand by lawyers. The discovery judge tired of stand by lawyers and Starshak started showing up. It seemed that Starshak failed to conference with prior lawyers within his firm regarding an IME appointment I showed up for and the fact that I personally told him I showed up for the IME and had my camera out to film it but, the doctor cancelled the IME even though I told him I'd put my camera away. Then there was the issue of Opposing Counsel alleging that Starshak and crew failed to notify him of the current address of a out of town witness that was on the bus and that Starshak and crew failed to tell Opposing Counsel what the witness would testify to. The Judge Sandra Ramos barred the witness. This was the only witness on the bus Starshak scheduled for a deposition even though there were other flight attendants, executives and a ground transportation witness on the bus. One witness went to the hospital. The deposition was scheduled for when Starshak returned from Gerry Spences ranch. Opposing Counsel told the witness that the Judge had told Horwitz that the witness could not be deposed and Opposing Counsel also alleged in a motion that the subpoena was invalid as it related to contempt. I was shocked at the discovery Opposing Counsel came in alleging he didn't get. Even when the Judge asked Atty. Carter ( lead counsel ) what happened to the discovery sought via a subpoena in 2017 , Atty. Carter's answer was " I don't know." Opposing Counsel also alleged that Horwitz sent out a subpoena for discovery to a 3rd party and failed to send Opposing Counsel a copy of the request. I also had to ask Starshak to watch his language in front of me on at least 2 occasions when he referred to a particular individual using a section of the male anatomy during the conversation. As a result of misrepresentations I alleged that Horwitz and Opposing Counsel made to the court, Horwitz did not want to represent me any longer and walked into court on what was suppose to be the 3rd day of trial with a Motion to Withdraw. The Motion was denied but, Horwtiz said they couldn't represent me so, the Judge told me I either had to represent myself or work Horwitz even though they had said they didn't want to. The Judge wouldn't allow me to complete my sentence when I was trying to ask for time to get a new lawyer. Horwitz and Opposing Counsel suggested I could dismiss with leave to refile. I did that after a 5 minute conference in the hallway with Horwitz. No lawyer wanted to take the case on after looking at the sanctions the Judge dished out.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Jasmine
Reporting to ARDC. Do not hire this attorney NO CONTRATEN A ESTE ABOGADO . He took our money in November of 2023 and did nothing with our eviction case and kept ignoring our calls and in person requests.
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08 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
When you need an attorney, it can be tough to make the good decision. Marco is absolutely a diamond in the rough. He works hard to get what is fair at a fair fee. He has helped me on 2 occasions and I would highly recommend him! I just wanted to say how very blessed I was with the results from this Law firm. Everyone treated me with the greatest respect. My thanks to this law firm. Many blessings to ALL Of you!
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07 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
At the time I had Nicole Nocera as my practicing attorney, she didn't tell me whether she was representing me, advocating for me or consulting as an attorney. She did make progress on my case. Originally, the bill that was being given me was over 100,000, I believe, and she did get the bill down to about 78,000, which saved me from having to file bankruptcy. Right now, however, I am in a situation involving psychiatric malpractice. She didn't continue to follow up on me, but I didn't contact her again either. I was frustrated because although she said she was pro bono, she didn't seem to follow up enough on the case enough. How can she survive, financially, and how can she live with herself, if she doesn't follow through with her clients?
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21 May, 2023 by Alma cato
Rakesh Khanna @ Weissberg Law is an amazing attorney. Highly recommend!
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26 Oct, 2021 by Dorinda epps
Annoying
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20 Dec, 2020 by Zygis varaska
Best in town. Thank You.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Mohammod robi
08 Jan, 2022 by Mike morris
Hi my name is Michael Morris I just want to say thank you to Maria sanchez who has been a awesome individual that helped me navigate through my car accident. She's a very awesome individual I thank you for the experience. And letting me be part of the Warner Family .
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15 Dec, 2023 by Mohammod robi
18 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
We where hired by Mr. Friedman to serve legal documents on several cases for him. He is totally none responsive to us. We even contacted his clients and he seems to be none responsive to them also. He owes us $1809.50 for three cases that are way past due.
Andrew Raphael
LaSalle Process Servers, LP.
105 W. Madison Street
Suite 1306
Chicago, IL 60602
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08 Jan, 2022 by Mike morris
Hi my name is Michael Morris I just want to say thank you to Maria sanchez who has been a awesome individual that helped me navigate through my car accident. She's a very awesome individual I thank you for the experience. And letting me be part of the Warner Family .
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08 May, 2023 by Anonymous
He drop us after 3 years of service and didn’t find attorney . Do recommended him at all, terrible lawyer
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03 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Ryan Harrington for my slip & fall case. From the initial consultation to the final settlement, we had a great professional relationship & he was a pleasure to work with. He always kept me informed with all the details of my case & was readily available by email, text and/or phone if & when I needed to consult with him. Mr. Harrington is very knowledgeable on every aspect of law & guided me through my case to a successful outcome. I would hire him again if I ever need legal representation in the future and highly recommend him to anyone in need of a highly reputable & competent lawyer. He is the best !!
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10 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
I hired Ryan Harrington for a simple collection matter that needed to go to arbitration. He first of all did not perform the steps a Lawyer should do in such a case, he also did not inform me his client of anything. He was difficult to get a hold of, and when I finally voiced my opinion about his incompetence, he motioned to be removed from the case and charged me approx. $ 4,500.00 for nothing. Waste of money.
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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.
