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26 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Answered my questions, very thoughtful and considerate. Anyone who decides to employ her will not be disappointed. A lawyer with compassion and commitment.
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28 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Very knowledgeable. Easy to speak with and explains the law so I can understand the process.. very satisfied knowing she will represent me... big relief!! I feel like I'm in good hands now!!
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18 May, 2017 by Deborah burton
I posted lawyer searching for work compensation case with the Tribal law, Heather Siles responded and referred me to another attorney that may be able to do my case.
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04 Oct, 2017 by Bruce
First off, I need you to know this is the very best law office in the entire Butte County area. They are extremely courteous, polite, professional and business oriented. Stewart is very upfront about what he thinks and never ever tells you what you want to hear. Brutal honesty is his policy. I had a very stale case that had been basically sitting for almost 2 years. I contacted Stewart and he informed me that it's not gonna be an easy settlement. However in the end he ended up getting all my bills paid, medical, MRI's, loans and still able to put cash in my pocket. I had an attorney before and they never returned calls, never answered questions and acted as though I was causing an issue when I did call. I never experienced this with Stewart's office. Call and get in touch with the very best in the business.
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23 Aug, 2016 by Ellen
Mr. Galbraith did a great job of advising and representing me after I was hit by a car while I crossing a major street in a crosswalk. In the big scheme of things, this was minor, but it did keep me out of work several weeks and involved the need for physical therapy and I very much appreciated a professional advising me on this journey. I have since advised 2 friends who needed a personal injury lawyer to go to Stewart and they both give rave reviews of his professionalism and honesty and positive resolution of their cases.
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30 May, 2014 by Natalia
I was a Mr.Galbraith's client for two years and I have a great deal of appreciation for his hard work for me. He has integrity, class, knowledge which all together make him being outstanding attorney. He has put a lot of efforts in my case and never been bulled and insulted the opposite side which is rarely happens in a court of what I heard. He supported and guided me through entire process and he won. I would highly recommend to hire him if, the God forbids, somebody needs help.
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06 Nov, 2015 by Satisfied client
My experience was great. They kept us informed and got a much larger settlement than I had thought possible. Mr. Puritz negotiated with the adjusters so well that I didn't have to go to court or anything, They're kind at their office and were always available to answer my question or concerns.
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18 Sep, 2009 by Anonymous
I used Mr. Puritz in a case involving a young man rear ending me in Paradise. I had a previous back injury and surgery so the insurance claimed prior injuries. Larry stood by me and ultimately they found that the fuse in my back from surgery had broken in the accident and we settled out of court for much more than I ever thought we would.
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09 Sep, 2009 by Linda
I used Lawrence Puritz for my Attorney in October of 2008 when I fell in a local supermarket. Larry settled my case within 2 months and I received compensation for my damages x 10! I was reimbursed for my medical bills and received an additional $40,000.00 for my pain and suffering.
I would definitely recommend Larry to anyone who has been injured.
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27 Apr, 2015 by Saralyn
This lawyer knows his stuff. He has been there for me and my family for the last 25 years+ He also is well versed in Real Estate Law As I am a President of a local Board of Realtors and I have had great response to real estate questions when needed. He is prompt and efficient and knows his law.
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08 Dec, 2010 by Christin
My husband and I had Daniel prepare our Living Trust. He and his office made the process a pleasant experience; they guided us through everything.
The two times Daniel met with us, he was approachable and allowed all of the time we needed to make difficult decisions. We didn't feel like we were "on the clock".
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18 Jul, 2015 by Joe
I WAS GIVEN A HUGH SETTLEMENT IN A CAR ACCIDENT IN A CASE THAT OTHER LAWYERS TURNED DOWN. HE AND HIS STAFF AND INVESTIGATORS FOUND FACTS AND LAW AND INSURANCE COVERAGE NO OTHER LAWYER EVEN MENTIONED. HIS STAFF IS VERY HELPFUL AND MR MOLIN UNLIKE OTHER LAWYERS WOULD SEE ME WHEN I THOUGHT I NEEDED TO SEE HIM EVEN IF I PROBABLY DID NOT REALLY NEED ANYTHING BUT HAND HOLDING.. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HIM AND HIS OFFICE AND STAFF
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26 Aug, 2024 by John smith
11 Jun, 2024 by Down town d (dhyana kroon)
I just wanted to share what a great experience I had. These guys were attentive and always were there to answer any questions I had. I'm very happy with how my case turned out. Hopefully, I never have to contact them again but if something ever occurred I know who I'm calling! If you are injured, call the Law Offices of Adam Sorrels! 🙂
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06 Jun, 2024 by Danne boch
Kind, compassionate, professional and most important honest. Adam and his staff have the highest rating from me. My family has used his services for a number of years and I have referred a number of clients to him. If you are having personal injury legal issues, it is worth your time to talk with him.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Theresa black
I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding legal representation I received from Larry Buckley following my automobile accident. From the very beginning, he demonstrated exceptional professionalism, dedication, and expertise, Larry was always available to answer my questions and kept me informed throughout the entire process.
Larry fought tirelessly on my behalf and ultimately won my case, securing the compensation I deserved. His knowledge of the law and strategic approach were key to our success. I highly recommend Larry Buckley to anyone in need of a skilled and compassionate attorney. Thank you for your unwavering support and hard work!
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01 Jun, 2024 by A g
21 Mar, 2024 by Alec feyling
Larry is an exceptional attorney. He went out of his way to help me with my case. I don’t know what I would have done without him.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Theresa black
I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding legal representation I received from Larry Buckley following my automobile accident. From the very beginning, he demonstrated exceptional professionalism, dedication, and expertise, Larry was always available to answer my questions and kept me informed throughout the entire process.
Larry fought tirelessly on my behalf and ultimately won my case, securing the compensation I deserved. His knowledge of the law and strategic approach were key to our success. I highly recommend Larry Buckley to anyone in need of a skilled and compassionate attorney. Thank you for your unwavering support and hard work!
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01 Jun, 2024 by A g
21 Mar, 2024 by Alec feyling
Larry is an exceptional attorney. He went out of his way to help me with my case. I don’t know what I would have done without him.
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14 Jun, 2021 by Branden
I'm just really disappointed with my experience with this office. They really let me down. I gave Mr. Bently who works for Joe vandervoort $5,000 to write court documents for me. Although this was a lot of money I was confident that he knew what he was doing. I had to constantly call the office to get him to work on it(around 50 calls) most of the time i was unable to reach him. He said himself that he would need me on the phone while he worked on it, So he only spent a couple hours on my documents. 1 year later my documents were denied and mr Bently said it would cost me another $1500 to appeal it. I was homeless and broke. I borrowed the money from my family. If this was done correctly I would have been living happily with shelter and family but I had to live in my vehicle throughout the pandemic and not to mention I got covid 19. I wish they cared enough to not rip me off, I wish that mr. Bently treated this matter professionally and correctly.
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16 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I would like to share the profound impact Joe VanDervoort and his staff has had on my life. I was facing long term, mandatory jail time and I was consumed with fear that my life was over. The best decision I ever made was placing the out-come in Joe's hands. I asked, "What was I to do?" Joe simply smiled and said, "relax, we're going to keep you out of jail. I'll take care of everything; you live your life." I followed his instructions and my life was not only restored, but improved as a result of this seemingly impossible experience. To say "money well spent" would be grossly understating the level of professionalism of Mr. VanDervoort and his legal staff.
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14 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I was facing allot of problems with my case and Mr. VanDevoort and I were able to sit and talk about the best way to resolve it. We probably did not always agree 100% on the route to go but in the end all was explained and we did choose the right one. He is very easy to work with and will always have your best interest in mind. His results were very satisfying. If you are in need of a lawyer I would recommend him 100%.
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19 Apr, 2023 by Dan
Siles and Foster, P.C. is the best worker’s compensation attorney office. This is the second time I have used Steve Foster to represent me in my worker’s compensation case. Unfortunately, I was reinjured at work and immediately knew that I would choose Siles and Foster Law Office to represent me again.
From our first meeting, he explained everything to me in terms I could easily understand and was always very responsive when I had questions outside of our meetings and got back to me quickly.
His administrative staff, especially Tabitha, was always friendly and never made me feel like she was in a rush. She was knowledgeable and would find out the answers quickly if she was unsure.
When you get injured, worker’s compensation can be a nightmare and be very confusing. The firm helped navigate the insurance company and get doctors that cared about my well-being.
If anyone is looking for a knowledgeable attorney that is respectful and knows how to fight for his client, Steve Foster is the right choice. His legal representation restored my faith in the justice system.
I highly recommend and will work with this law office again. Thanks, team!
Dan H.
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24 Jun, 2021 by Christine
I used Mr.Foster and his GREAT team for a couple of things they handled everything with the care for me they would do I feel for there own family I just want to thank them all for all the help and care they gave me. I will recommend there services to anyone I feel that might need an AWSOME attorney
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26 Sep, 2019 by Dillon
I've never had a lawyer before and so I was nervous on finding one. Well Mr. Foster did not disappoint. He explained things to me in a way I could understand and his fees were very fair. If I ever need legal counsel again in the future I'll be calling him back.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Rachelle duvall
14 Mar, 2024 by Erica vaughan
Anthony has really been amazing! I don’t normally leave reviews but when it comes to finding an attorney who you can trust is really hard. Most of them just want to get your money. When my husband got himself into trouble I knew we needed to get a good attorney but where do you start? We unfortunately learned the hard way at first and went with someone who just wanted our money, who said everything we wanted to hear until he was paid the big retainer fee and then switched up and dumped us after we started to question him. So after that Anthony was like a breath of fresh air! He truly cares about his clients and goes above and beyond for you. Word around this county is he is a beast and yes that is true but he genuinely is also there for you, listens and doesn’t just want to take your money. I could go on and on how awesome he has been throughout our nightmare but bottom line he is the person you need in your corner! Thank you Anthony for standing by us and seeing us through!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Nicole allen
Brenden Blake is amazing! That’s an understatement. The best attorney ever. Easy to talk to and really fights for his clients.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Rachelle duvall
14 Mar, 2024 by Erica vaughan
Anthony has really been amazing! I don’t normally leave reviews but when it comes to finding an attorney who you can trust is really hard. Most of them just want to get your money. When my husband got himself into trouble I knew we needed to get a good attorney but where do you start? We unfortunately learned the hard way at first and went with someone who just wanted our money, who said everything we wanted to hear until he was paid the big retainer fee and then switched up and dumped us after we started to question him. So after that Anthony was like a breath of fresh air! He truly cares about his clients and goes above and beyond for you. Word around this county is he is a beast and yes that is true but he genuinely is also there for you, listens and doesn’t just want to take your money. I could go on and on how awesome he has been throughout our nightmare but bottom line he is the person you need in your corner! Thank you Anthony for standing by us and seeing us through!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Nicole allen
Brenden Blake is amazing! That’s an understatement. The best attorney ever. Easy to talk to and really fights for his clients.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Rachelle duvall
14 Mar, 2024 by Erica vaughan
Anthony has really been amazing! I don’t normally leave reviews but when it comes to finding an attorney who you can trust is really hard. Most of them just want to get your money. When my husband got himself into trouble I knew we needed to get a good attorney but where do you start? We unfortunately learned the hard way at first and went with someone who just wanted our money, who said everything we wanted to hear until he was paid the big retainer fee and then switched up and dumped us after we started to question him. So after that Anthony was like a breath of fresh air! He truly cares about his clients and goes above and beyond for you. Word around this county is he is a beast and yes that is true but he genuinely is also there for you, listens and doesn’t just want to take your money. I could go on and on how awesome he has been throughout our nightmare but bottom line he is the person you need in your corner! Thank you Anthony for standing by us and seeing us through!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Nicole allen
Brenden Blake is amazing! That’s an understatement. The best attorney ever. Easy to talk to and really fights for his clients.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Jonathan stolarski
I was initially put off by the consultation, but upon further reflection of my situation involving child custody and visitation, I realize Mr. McHugh was honest and straight to the point, not wasting time on frivolous talk. If you need some professional advice, it's well worth the consultation, just make sure you write questions down in advance because he cannot read your mind. His opinion was valuable to me and I appreciate his honesty.
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19 Mar, 2024 by Janelle cutrer
21 Jan, 2024 by Zak schulps
Definitely one of the best, if not the best family law, practice and lawyer in Butte County 😉👍🏼🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
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22 Jul, 2024 by F o
Paid my retaining fee can't get a hold of anyone for my refund since Andrew has passed
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19 Jun, 2024 by Ashley stainback
We had a Great experience with this Law firm! They went above and beyond to make sure we were happy and taken care of. Always got back to us immediately and made time to answer any questions we had. Everybody that works here including the secretary were very professional and personable. I would DEFINITELY RECOMMEND them to family & friends!!!!
THANK YOU!!!
-MICAH & ASHLEY
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07 Jun, 2024 by Manny lopez
Professional and caring
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19 Jun, 2024 by Alycinlorayne corte'
Krista had to come clean up the mess that my past attorneys had left me in. She is educated in psych. and family law, so she truly understands and is compassionate to the cases she takes. Very friendly, very professional, and I have had the pleasure/ been working with her for years now and she has always quickly responded to all my questions as well as gave a straight-forward and thorough answer. She’s great representation, a woman of justice and honor, honesty, family, compassion and kindness. I am blessed to have found such an attorney!
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27 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
After my disabled son’s wife filed for divorce and exploited his impairments by tricking him into signing all community property to herself - as his Power of Attorney I retained counsel. After six months of her deceptive/deterrent tactics - despite being sanctioned $1500 for them - we switched lawyers in December 2021. We retained Krista based on all of the 5-star reviews about her successfully fighting for other clients; but after ten months of giving her the benefit of the doubt, and wanting to avoid starting over with a third attorney, we ended up having a zero-star experience.
She did disclose that a few upcoming medical procedures might slow progress, but they caused major delays and seriously compromised her performance.
Due to COVID, she was working from home with no staff. Lacking support, her communications with us and the petitioner were mostly via informal emails which were often delayed. There were also significant enough errors in emails to the petitioner, that I began drafting them for accuracy myself so she could copy/paste and send them.
Due to the thousands resulting from the petitioner’s non-compliance, I told Krista that I wanted to ask for legal fees in the settlement - but she said we shouldn’t since the petitioner didn’t have an attorney, and a judge would see it as bullying.
When it came to making timely repairs to the neglected marital home to maximize profit and list it during a sellers-market bubble, Krista kept making allowances for the petitioner’s ongoing deterrent tactics, which postponed our ability to list it until the market was on the decline - diminishing potential proceeds.
Once there was an offer and a closing date set for the end of September 2022, a critical document requiring my son’s signature was emailed to her at the end of August 2022; but with only a few days til closing, our panicked real estate broker was asking where it was. When I called her about it, Krista found and forwarded it to us [with no apology for the oversight or stress/inconvenience], and we had to scramble to get it to the buyer’s broker in time.
After the sale of the house, she rescheduled a phone appointment last minute - only to no-show us at the re-scheduled time! When she missed calling by 15 minutes, I texted but got no reply. At the half-hour point, I called and left a voicemail, but she didn't call back until a few hours later. With no apology, she said that the appointment didn’t show up on her calendar, that she had been at the Verizon store all morning, so could we reschedule again! At this point, I terminated her services.
Since the majority of her 5-star reviews included her then assistant and go back to 2014 - I am posting this to save others from the frustration, stress, expense, and lost time that we experienced.
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21 Sep, 2022 by A a
19 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I highly recommend her. She is honest, brilliant, work hard and strategic attorney. I will whole refer them to my friends and family!
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18 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Lo más importante es que habla español y te ayuda a salir bien de tu caso, excelente persona
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05 Jul, 2020 by Lisa lucas
Expert legal representation.
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19 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
This is in response about a review that a so called 'friend' made giving James Gingrich a 1 star rating. I was the driver of the truck that this 'friend' was my passenger. Well, my insurance company didn't really have my back and the other drivers insurance was just lame. So I called my longtime friend Attorney Micheal Erpino at Chico Lawyers and he referred me to Attorney James Gingrich. We talked and James went to bat for me. It took a little time - probably because he had to deal with my passenger. But I ended up with a settlement that was more than I expected. I'm giving James Gingrich 5 stars. He's a good person and he keeps it real. If I ever get into another situation, I'm calling James. So please disregard my passenger 'friend' 1 star rating. She's a crybaby, exaggerates, and is not really a people person. 5 solid stars, James.
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27 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Was the passenger in a friend's vehicle and we got into an accident so I needed a lawyer but had contacted a few just for them to tell me that I didn't really have a case. My friend called Chico Lawyers Group and got James who said he'd help my friend and asked iif there was anyone else in the accident. My friend told him yeah and gave James my number. So he contacted me and told me right off the bat that he could for sure at least get me the $10,000 uninsured motorist money from my friends insurance. Well I went to the doc and they sent me to physical therapy for an injury to my neck and back but apparently I didn't get enough treatment because the nect time that we spoke, James and myself, he told me that if I didn't go back to the doctor and get more treatment he couldn't help me after all and that without more treatment my case was now a waste of his time and not worth the effort! So I guess he just straight up lied to me in our first conversation. He only wants to help me if I do a a bunch of extra stuff so he'll get a better pay day not me. He's only worried about me insofar as I bring him medical bills. So even though I got injured it wasn't injured enough in his opinion. He also tried to get my friend to go see his personal chiropractortio ratchet up his claim when my friend basically had no injuries at all just needed he truck replaced which still hasn't happened 9 months later! And the other insurance company admitted fault so there shouldn't be any type of delay in them responding to offers but still nothing! Like I said he's a total joke!!! Gp somewhere else, run!!!!! He's not gonna help you unless it's a guaranteed big payout. Otherwise he'll tell you that you're a waste of his time!!! Super good customer service skills for sure, NOT!!!!
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26 Jan, 2017 by Lance
I recently found myself in a situation where I needed some legal help and guidance. I called around to several law offices in Chico. Each office I called immediately put me on hold and each time I began to explain my situation would interrupt me and place me on hold. When I finally did get to speak with an attorney he spent more time interrupting and trying to impress me with his intellectual prowess than listen to me.
I saw the big billboard on The Esplanade for Chico Lawyers and decided to try them. SO glad I did! From the moment Joanne answered the phone she was respectful, courteous and listened to what I said and needed. She then connected me with James Gingrich the attorney she felt would best fit my particular situation. I had a conversation with James. He was very respectful, asked pertinent questions and then set a time to meet with me face to face.
When I arrived for my appointment with James he was ready and prepared – having done some preliminary research based on our initial conversation. I was able to go into more detail as to what I felt I needed and he was able to provide the legal bases, opinion and merits of my case. He had even spoken to one of the other attorneys in their office to get a second opinion. He laid out a very clear plan and how he could assist me. He quoted me a flat fee and what type of legal services he would provide for that fee. It was an extremely reasonable fee. From the beginning to conclusion of my case James preformed exactly as he had promised and in my opinion even went beyond. I never once felt he was trying to “nickle and dime” me and increase his fees. In fact I even paid him extra because he provided a few extra services outside the prevue of our original agreement and never even ask for additional fees.
I told James that while I hope to never have to engage his services again if I ever do – he is my guy.
I am telling ALL my family and friends that if you need any type of legal services – Better Get Gingrich!
I am so glad I Got Gingrich.
Sincerely,
Lance W.
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19 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I has assumed my daughter would get advice and assurance when we hired Ron it’s seems these days he so busy he can barely return phone calls or emails. Have had two appointments by phone both of which I had to call because he apparently was running late. My daughter has been left without communication and a timeline we have spend our retainer and nothing has been finalized and have no direction as to how this might end. Frustrated and sorry my daughter retained Ron when he is so busy with his other cases. We hired him expecting advice assurance and resolution. Still waiting in limbo. He’s a nice man and other reviews appreciate his skills . I had hope for similar experiences.
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28 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Ron Marquez was assign by the court to be the Child's Advocate Attorney for my 2 pre-teen kids. This was a heavily litigated case over the past 2.5 years. Ron barley glanced at the court files and spent less than 20 minutes with my children.
On the date of the trial Ron was reprimanded multiple times by the judge for not knowing the details of the case. Ron simply wanted to maintain a 50/50 custody timeshare. Ron made no attempt to represent the wants or needs of the children he was hired to advocate for.
At the end of the trial the judge relieved him of his duties involving the case.
I have seen many child custody cases of the years and Ron was the least prepared and knowledgeable lawyer I have seen to date. He was unconcerned for the wants and needs of the children he was suppose to represent.
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17 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Marquez seemed to have the right things to say but it was obvious that he takes the short road to end a case. Frivolous meetings, expensive email and phone charges and change of venue at court time make it very expensive and fruitless. He did not support the case when it was court time, manipulating his client with nonsense and pressuring his client to settle in the opposing clients agenda. Attempts to talk to his boss or anyone in his office was impossible, no return calls or emails to resolve this issue. He also has a pending issue with the CA State Bar that he did not disclose.
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22 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
When I was interviewing lawyers, they asked me who the opposing council was for my divorce, and I told them Les Hait, more than one said, "let me tell you what is going to happen with Les Hait. He will drag things out for as long as possible until all of the money is gone or until his client threatens to fire him". And sure enough he dragged out the divorce for over 3 years. When we finally settled with the Judge in conference, the judge said he was appalled to see how much had been spent on legal fees. He told me that he has seen doctors who did not spend that much on legal fees.
Everyone I have spoken to that knows of Les Hait, knows that he has this reputation, but it seems like Les has taken acting lessons because he is so good at pulling the wool over the eyes of his client to make them think he is helping them. But in my case, literally every document they filed with the court had claims or statements which they KNEW were lies. Any crazy thing my ex would say, he would just type it up and file it even though they knew it was false, like claiming values in an account were much higher than the true amount - which was on the account statement we both had copies of.
He seems like a nice man when you meet him, but but if you want a lawyer who will help you get your situation resolved in a fair and reasonable way, go anywhere else.
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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.
