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23 Jun, 2022 by Danielle
I honestly can’t say enough about this law firm and all the people who work there, it’s a true team and family vibe. Everyone pitches in to support you as a person, to work hard on your case and to try their best to get you Justice.
They work so diligently to effectively communicate with you every single step of the way. Attention to detail and kindness, infinite amounts of both knowledge and passion for their clients, cases and causes.
Professional but relatable NOT stuffy which is so important, I wanted to be a part of my case and understand everything and have a say, not just be a person in a chair that is talked about, and talked at but never talked to…and they delivered! I was included in everything and most importantly I WAS HEARD by my amazing team of professionals especially my lawyer Matthew Carney who was literally amazing!! He passionately defended me when opposing counsel was coming at me disrespectfully. He fought hard and was realistic with me and always told me the hard truths in the nature of my case. I honestly have never felt more confident putting something so important into the hands of others before but they handled my case as if it were their own. I will be forever grateful to every single person in that office that I got to know and who got to know me. I will FOREVER recommend them to anyone and everyone in need of legal representation because honestly they have a special brand, a special formula which makes them successful and that is to treat every client like they are the only client they have. I spoke with my lawyer twice as much as I spoke to his wonderful paralegal Stephanie, he never passed me off to assistants to handle what were probably textbook questions and concerns but instead he chose to handle them himself and made himself easily accessible via text, email and phone calls.
I am a lot and bless him, he handled me with so much kindness and concern, everyone in the whole firm that I interacted with did. I can’t say enough! If more people in the world were like the members of this law firm, the world would be such an amazingly kind, considerate, and safe place. If trust, compassion, communication, knowledge, skill, passion and experience are important to you when choosing a law firm to handle your most important legal situations, THIS is the law firm for you, hands down!
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28 Oct, 2016 by Judi
Matthew, took an my highly complicated case. (I had previously hired, several other attorneys from T.V)., and they failed to get me any results.
Matthew fought hard and long; putting his 150% into resolving my case. My personal injury case, was complicated due to the misfortune of obtaining attorneys that promised me the stars. These attorneys wanted the results now, they were not willing to fight for me and my rights.
I was blessed to have found Matthew and Carey and Leisure. When, my case was settled after 4 years, due to the negligence of the prior attorneys. Matthew was able to get me a more than fair, settlement.
Matthew helped obtain my dreams and many miracles. Not, only did Matthew put his 150% into my case; he and the Carey and Leisure Firm treated me and my family with respect, kindness, and when I did not understand some legal issues; Matthew took the time to explained my case thoroughly.
If you are thinking about picking up the phone and calling an attorney that you have seen on television. PLEASE "STOP". I know from experience that, you will become a number, NOT a name or a person. I urge you to pick up the phone and call Matthew and The Carey and Leisure Firm.
Thank you Matthew and The Carey and Leisure Firm, for changing my life. God Bless!!
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20 Nov, 2015 by Jennifer
I would highly recommend anyone looking for an excellent attorney to work with Josh. He is approachable, personable, dedicated, and forthright and has helped me understand the complexities of my case every step of the way.
Josh is always available to speak with me personally and to return my emails. I know what a rarity that is in today’s world given the horror stories I have heard from friends and family and their own attorney/client experiences and interactions. I am so very fortunate to have Josh in my corner!
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31 Jul, 2015 by M.t.
Mr. Chilson handled my personal injury case. After the first two years of my case not moving much, Mr. Chilson took over the case and began to get the results we were looking for. He always kept us informed of the status of our case and never left any questions unanswered. Mr. Chilson made accommodations for our work schedules and called us at a time that was convenient for my husband and I to be together each time we spoke with him. I would definitely recommend him to all my friends and family. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.
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20 Nov, 2018 by Jill
Dane Heptner was there for me every step of the way with my personal injury case, helping me with every question I had, calling me back with minimal delay and working very hard to cross every t and dot every i. I enjoyed talking to Dane every time we spoke. His kindness and sense of humor were very much appreciated. I had over $58k in medical bills that he reduced to less than $7k. Dane saved the day during negotiation multiple times in several different creative ways. If you need a passionate, caring lawyer with a heart, creative mind and raw talent for knowing exactly what to say at exactly the right time to win your case, Dane Heptner is the lawyer you need fighting for you.
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22 Aug, 2017 by Jim
I had let my personal injury case linger and several attorneys told me it wasn't a very valuable case. Dane Heptner turned it around and got me over $50,000.00! Great job Dane! I recommend Dane Heptner to anyone with a personal injury case.
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22 Aug, 2018 by Dina
Not only is Attorney Leisure very warm and knowledgeable she’s also very compassionate and works diligently. She did more for my case in four months then another local attorney could do in four years. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking legal counsel in her specialty. I assure you, you will not be disappointed . I am eternally grateful for all she has done for me.
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17 Apr, 2018 by Lauren
I was in a car accident a year ago and called Jodi's office at the scene. I hurt my shoulder and she got me in with a ortho the same day. She is professional, kind and spends time with her clients.
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30 Jun, 2015 by Les
I use Kevin a couple of times dealing with issues and he has been great over 20 something years I've known himare you stephanie a couple times dealing with issues anne has been great over to the 27 years I've known him
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26 Apr, 2018 by Deena
Mr. Roman negotiated a deal in my case that resulted in more than I expected. He was professional and appropriate. I'm thrilled with the outcome.
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29 Apr, 2020 by Esperanza f.
I had an automobile accident wherein I was caused to T-bone a vehicle that crossed in front of my vehicle when it was unsafe. My vehicle was a total loss and Atty. Gipe worked diligently to get me compensated for my car and the baby's car seat and other items that were in the car but did not come with the car. He also settled my case for a fair amount and I am extremely happy with him and his staff and would hire him again, if I ever needed to.
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15 Jul, 2015 by Mimi
I was at my lowest point in life and Michael Park was absolutely amazing. He was fair, just and treated me with the utmost respect. I could not have selected a better attorney. He is not the typical.... he bills fairly and was aggressive in every part of the court proceeding that required it, yet he was kind with me. Truly an A+ attorney.
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03 Oct, 2010 by Debra
It is stressful finding the precise attorney to rectify an unlawful/unethical housing conflict within a condominium association. With that said, I know, because I spoke with several attorneys, and when I found Richard Heiden my search ended. His professionalism and expertise are of excellent merit and ability.
His knowledge of condominum law is beyond commendable. His strategy and tactics are ahead of opposing counsel at all times. He cares about your personal outcome, and is emotionally attached to your well-being throughout the relationship. His listening skills are superior, thus he provided insightful and steadfast results for my case.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Alex
I called Vincent when my HOA had filed a lawsuit against me. He took my call, proceeded to calmly explain my situation and my opinions. Instead of just taking my money upfront (which many other attorneys would), he advised me to make an attempt to negotiate with HOA. And then call him back.
An honest, well intentioned lawyer all around.
Thank you Vincent
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23 Oct, 2019 by Scott
He was always there to answer a question, and kept in regular contact with me through the whole case. Very knowledgeable and experienced and was successful in bringing my case to a very satisfactory settlement. Would recommend him in a heartbeat.
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06 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Colon is young, but is very highly experienced. He was incredibly helpful and attentive to my case, as well as very honest with the outcomes I could expect. He didn’t necessarily under promise but he did over deliver. I would recommend him to anyone, on his own or in conjunction with Mr. Lirot’s help.
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14 Feb, 2015 by Barbara chapman
Mr. Damien Hoffman is one of the most ethical, devoted, and intelligent attorneys I have had the pleasure of working with. He is down to earth, as well as a wonderful communicator. He is not only compassionate and empathetic, but logical and straightforward. His knowledge in medical negligence is extensive. He is a critical thinker who well versed in the law not only in medical negligence, wrongful death, and catastrophic injuries, but in business litigations as well. I would highly recommend him for you legal needs.
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03 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Sullivan took extra time to explain details as this was the first time we needed to work with an attorney.
The pandemic added extra stress and time ,however, he stayed with us the entire time.
When I was ready to give up, he states the course and believed in our case.
My husband and I are both very helpful with the outcome of the case and would highly recommend Mr. Sullivan and his team.
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20 Apr, 2008 by Anonymous
A lawyers lawyer. Always kept me informed and always told me thr truth. Soon after i hired him he convinced the state to drop all charges. He is the best.
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13 Aug, 2016 by Mario
I hired Miss Rojas for my criminal law and she was driven and hard working. She always let me know what was going on in my case and explained everything to me. She was always on the ball and super smart!
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27 May, 2015 by Nancy
I could not sing enough praises about Jeff Coleman of Coleman Law Firm in Clearwater, FL.
I received an exceptionally high level of professional care throughout the process of dealing with the handling of my Dad's estate in FL while I reside in NY. With Jeff at the helm with his ever present intelligence and expertise, I forged through an extraordinarily difficult 2+ years sprinkled with more than its fair share of "never before seen moments". Jeff calmly and smoothly navigated the turbulent waters of dealing with incredibly difficult people and situations, never ceasing to be compassionate, kind, patient, fair, honest and thorough. I must also give kudos to Jeff's paralegal and "right-hand person" Emily, who shares the same qualities of excellence. Emily adds and additional dose of empathy and is thoroughly professional, kind, and caring with superb listening skills.
Together they make a great team and will forever be my "legal hero's" for successfully getting me through the most challenging experience of my life!
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10 Mar, 2015 by Robert
My estate planning was complicated after my lovely wife died, and I wanted to remarry. Mr. Coleman gave me the guidance I needed to protect all of my loved ones
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12 Dec, 2014 by Alex
Mr. Coleman is obviously very knowledgeable in his field, but he is also very approachable, and easy to talk to. He takes the time to explain things fully in a way that is easy to understand. He kept me very well informed of the progress of my case, and then made a superb presentation at my final hearing. I cannot recommend his services highly enough.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Curtis grant
They helped me immensely. Thank you for the help. I was out of town and they handled all my concerns from beginning to end!
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5.0
16 Reviews
4.9
151 Reviews
06 Sep, 2024 by Matthew howard
The Perenich Law Firm is not a transaction; it is a relationship. In June 2019, my family was victimized by a drunk driver that caused serious bodily injury at nearly 3 times the blood alcohol limit and did a hit-and-run. I had an insurance company (State Farm) that spent almost a year, refusing to acknowledge the coverage that I purchased. Then State Farm took over three years to finally agree to pay us victims for our underinsured motorist coverage, and only paid it after we initiated a bad faith claim. The firm supported us through depositions in the defendants criminal case. After waiting on the state of Florida to convict the criminal, we filed our civil suit with the fifth amendment protection stripped away. We sued the bar successfully, we sued our insurance company successfully, and we sued the defendant civilly successfully. The entire time, the firm was helping to arrange medical care through letters of protection and negotiating bills down.
It took us five years to bring all of the actions to a close. A wonderful five-year relationship I pray to God that I never need them again but if I do, I know they’re there.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Victoriano garcia
Great law firm! Pleasuring working with Terence! & Kahreem Gilks was an excellent paralegal.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Victoriano garcia
06 Sep, 2024 by Matthew howard
The Perenich Law Firm is not a transaction; it is a relationship. In June 2019, my family was victimized by a drunk driver that caused serious bodily injury at nearly 3 times the blood alcohol limit and did a hit-and-run. I had an insurance company (State Farm) that spent almost a year, refusing to acknowledge the coverage that I purchased. Then State Farm took over three years to finally agree to pay us victims for our underinsured motorist coverage, and only paid it after we initiated a bad faith claim. The firm supported us through depositions in the defendants criminal case. After waiting on the state of Florida to convict the criminal, we filed our civil suit with the fifth amendment protection stripped away. We sued the bar successfully, we sued our insurance company successfully, and we sued the defendant civilly successfully. The entire time, the firm was helping to arrange medical care through letters of protection and negotiating bills down.
It took us five years to bring all of the actions to a close. A wonderful five-year relationship I pray to God that I never need them again but if I do, I know they’re there.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Victoriano garcia
Great law firm! Pleasuring working with Terence! & Kahreem Gilks was an excellent paralegal.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Victoriano garcia
06 Sep, 2024 by Matthew howard
The Perenich Law Firm is not a transaction; it is a relationship. In June 2019, my family was victimized by a drunk driver that caused serious bodily injury at nearly 3 times the blood alcohol limit and did a hit-and-run. I had an insurance company (State Farm) that spent almost a year, refusing to acknowledge the coverage that I purchased. Then State Farm took over three years to finally agree to pay us victims for our underinsured motorist coverage, and only paid it after we initiated a bad faith claim. The firm supported us through depositions in the defendants criminal case. After waiting on the state of Florida to convict the criminal, we filed our civil suit with the fifth amendment protection stripped away. We sued the bar successfully, we sued our insurance company successfully, and we sued the defendant civilly successfully. The entire time, the firm was helping to arrange medical care through letters of protection and negotiating bills down.
It took us five years to bring all of the actions to a close. A wonderful five-year relationship I pray to God that I never need them again but if I do, I know they’re there.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Victoriano garcia
Great law firm! Pleasuring working with Terence! & Kahreem Gilks was an excellent paralegal.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Victoriano garcia
28 Sep, 2024 by Kandice hamel
28 Aug, 2024 by Cyndi kissner
What a blessing to have the care, concern & support of the whole Tragos, Sartes & Tragos law firm team. They were with us every step of our long journey. So grateful & thankful they represented us with honesty, integrity, excellence & confidence. We highly recommend Tragos, Sartes & Tragos. Truly amazing!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Drew taylor
David Neiser and Peter Tragos, as well as their entire team were absolutely amazing. I was in an accident 4 years ago and had a different law firm that really messed up my case. David and Peter agreed to take it over and fixed everything. The outcome was so much better than I ever could have imagined. I highly recommend this firm. If you need accident attorney's, choose them!
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13 Feb, 2024 by Brad belair
Fantastic staff of attorneys and legal assistants. I never feel like I don't know what's going on in my claim. Paula Roman and Zoe Cottom are the best!
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05 Jan, 2024 by Dianna toscano
Roman and Roman legal services with were outstanding from the very beginning. Stephanie, Jonna, and Cate were so kind and professional. Attorneys John Austin and Miles Hickman were also caring and most helpful during this difficult time. I highly recommend their services and they deserve a
5 plus star review. It was
such an emotional and stressful time. Thank you so much.
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01 Dec, 2023 by Barbara turner
Stephanie is the best she is loving like a mother and a friend she has you for slippin fall motorcycle motor vehicles accident’s mentioned me and 🥰 She works at multiple locations including Pasco and pinellas
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08 Jul, 2024 by Beth crisler
After seeing Mr. Dodson's video's about pedestrian safety, I contacted his office for advice about my son's moving violation ticket that involved a crosswalk. He was able to point me in a direction of another attorney who dealt with the kind of ticket my son received. That direction was very valuable and it was generously offered with the utmost desire to simply help. His office assistant, Kati, went out of her way to listen, research, and get back to me in a timely manner. We have bookmarked their number and he will be the first attorney we call if we find we need a personal injury lawyer.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Paul snow
This is the go-to place for answers to all of your legal questions! They are great listeners who really care about helping other people. 100% recommend if you ever need an attorney!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Megan reeder
This review is from Attorney David Platte: Jim Dodson and I have been colleagues in the Clearwater, Florida area for approximately 35 years. Over those years, I have referred numerous clients of mine to Jim when they, a family member or friend needs a personal injury or medical malpractice attorney. Whenever I refer clients to attorneys practicing in areas of the law other than the ones in which I specialize, I ask the clients to keep me informed regarding the progress of their cases. Without fail, my clients have reported exceptional service from Mr. Dodson, both from a professional and personal standpoint. I will continue to refer matters to Jim, knowing he will provide excellent service to my clients.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Carlos capria
HIRE JAMES, James has helped me get my life back. He's patient and dedicated to your case from the start. He has an extensive phone book and obviously is well respected in the court rooms. This helps immensely. Stop calling around and hire this guy. He is well worth it and you won't be disappointed. Thanks for everything Mr. May.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Nancy rapko
05 Jan, 2023 by Vincent garguilo
Very professional! By far the best attorney I've ever seen hands down! He has defended me and several others that I personally know and he makes the impossible possible..
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12 Aug, 2024 by Linda carter
He is always there to answer your questions . Great staff as well.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Bobbie smith
Thank you Chris for take my case over after Paul's passing. You been very helpful with everything. Push for me to get what I Deserve. Thank you again
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26 Jun, 2024 by Jeff snyder
I was sent to Chris after I could not continue with my previous Attorney. What a lucky break for me! Chris has gone above and beyond for me with my case, which was extremely complicated from the start. He did not give up on me and I have finally had a successful completion of this case! Thank you to Chris and Darlene for a professional and helpful legal practice!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Mary jane stanley
Larry and I started with Bryan Caulfield and Cindy Waller after an auto accident in 2023. Since that time they have gone out of their way to keep us in the loop of where things stand.
Recently, Cindy has answered every question that I had for her. She made sure that I understood everything that she was presenting to us.
We greatly appreciate everything that has been done for us.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Laterrrier pugh
This firm took my case not knowing if we could make a recovery. Mr. Bryan and Gigi worked diligently on my case. Gigi kept in constant communication with me and kept me up to date on all details of my case.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Annette c
Professional & Courteous. Joliz was very helpful & informative through out the entire process. I highly recommend Attorney Perenich!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Mary jane stanley
Larry and I started with Bryan Caulfield and Cindy Waller after an auto accident in 2023. Since that time they have gone out of their way to keep us in the loop of where things stand.
Recently, Cindy has answered every question that I had for her. She made sure that I understood everything that she was presenting to us.
We greatly appreciate everything that has been done for us.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Laterrrier pugh
This firm took my case not knowing if we could make a recovery. Mr. Bryan and Gigi worked diligently on my case. Gigi kept in constant communication with me and kept me up to date on all details of my case.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Annette c
Professional & Courteous. Joliz was very helpful & informative through out the entire process. I highly recommend Attorney Perenich!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Mary jane stanley
Larry and I started with Bryan Caulfield and Cindy Waller after an auto accident in 2023. Since that time they have gone out of their way to keep us in the loop of where things stand.
Recently, Cindy has answered every question that I had for her. She made sure that I understood everything that she was presenting to us.
We greatly appreciate everything that has been done for us.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Laterrrier pugh
This firm took my case not knowing if we could make a recovery. Mr. Bryan and Gigi worked diligently on my case. Gigi kept in constant communication with me and kept me up to date on all details of my case.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Annette c
Professional & Courteous. Joliz was very helpful & informative through out the entire process. I highly recommend Attorney Perenich!
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.8
132 Reviews
18 Sep, 2024 by Mary jane stanley
Larry and I started with Bryan Caulfield and Cindy Waller after an auto accident in 2023. Since that time they have gone out of their way to keep us in the loop of where things stand.
Recently, Cindy has answered every question that I had for her. She made sure that I understood everything that she was presenting to us.
We greatly appreciate everything that has been done for us.
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Laterrrier pugh
This firm took my case not knowing if we could make a recovery. Mr. Bryan and Gigi worked diligently on my case. Gigi kept in constant communication with me and kept me up to date on all details of my case.
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by Annette c
Professional & Courteous. Joliz was very helpful & informative through out the entire process. I highly recommend Attorney Perenich!
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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.
