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28 Aug, 2024 by Shauntai p
From the looks of these reviews they must’ve caught Brandi on a good day, bc I would never recommend or give my money to someone so rude! She doesn’t know me at all, I’m asking questions about a simple divorce vs. using an attorney and she had an attitude like I did something to her. I literally hung up in her face for being so rude. It’s a shame. Glad I found someone else who let me ask as many questions and walked me through the process.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Walter simpson
Don’t trust this lady with the most important things in your life. My divorce, went on for a year and a half. I paid $12k to this Law Firm to do nothing. First mistake the judge will appoint one lawyer to turn in the paperwork for child support. They appointed my lawyer She never turned it in. I Kept calling the courts house to see how much my child support . Then I find out she never turned in the paperwork. Her mistake made me behind $5000. Me and my ex-wife gave my father-in-law $50,000 to buy his company. Which we had 500 shares of stock in the company. Miss Bowen told me that in evidence finding that it was no proof of 500 shares. She kept on giving me the runaround about this. We went to mediator, That Miss Bowen did on zoom while my ex-wife and her lawyer was there. Saying that she had a flat tire but still charge me $3000 dollars for it. While she was never really present leaving the zoom turning her camera off so we couldn’t see her. Nothing got settled. Then the day before the final court date she called me saying that we did have 500 shares, but it was gonna be a problem in court. So I made a bad decision to go with what she advise me to do. But to find out later she was wrong. So I settle out of court to get half the money back from company that I put in. My settlement agreement was $75k. Miss Bowen told me I would receive that money within 3 weeks. It took 3 1/2 months before I got the entire amount. Had to call her and she only send me 25k. She said that the other money was held up in HER bank. 4 weeks went by had to email her she only sent me $20 thousand more. Then another 4 week went by I had to email her again then she sent me another $20 thousand. These went on for months. She did these like it was her money. A couple more things went wrong but I’m running out of room but I think you get the message. REALLY BAD EXPERIENCE.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Ha’keem brown
I am immensely grateful to Brandi L. Small, Attorney at Law, for her exceptional assistance in helping me gain custody of my son. From our very first consultation, Ms. Small demonstrated an unparalleled level of professionalism, dedication, and empathy.
Her deep understanding of family law and her strategic approach to my case were evident throughout the entire process. Ms. Small's ability to navigate the complexities of the legal system, combined with her clear and effective communication, made me feel confident and supported every step of the way.
Ms. Small was always accessible, promptly addressing any questions or concerns I had. She provided thorough explanations of all possible outcomes, ensuring I was well-informed and prepared. Her compassionate demeanor and genuine care for my son's well-being were truly remarkable.
Thanks to Ms. Small's expertise and unwavering commitment, I am now able to provide a stable and loving environment for my son. I highly recommend Brandi L. Small to anyone in need of a dedicated and skilled attorney. She has made a profound difference in our lives; I am forever thankful for that.
It
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02 Dec, 2024 by Eternal faith
The hardest working firm in Columbia.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Thomas hill, p.a.
Check out Robert M. He's the best!
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09 Dec, 2021 by Sean c.
02 Aug, 2024 by Joy deupree
09 Feb, 2023 by Brendan svaton (bj)
So far so good. Mr. Mclaughlin is really helped me with misconduct that happened to me. I will update.
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08 Nov, 2022 by Steven
Pretended to care and made it seem like I had a claim. Told me in September they were going to reach out to me to let me know about my claim status. Never got an email until now 11/1/22. Only because I had emailed them to find out why I never heard nothing back from anyone. Tired of rude and uncourteous people like this. Seems like in south carolina the laws some how change when you want to take legal action. Bad enough this firm never explained why they couldn't take my claim just the same generic letter. Please don't waste your time with this firm they won't value your time or be direct with you.
Update!
See this is my exact point about being unprofessional. Your attorney said she would reach out to me by a certain time which she never did twice. But you don't take accountability for that? I'm not upset about the firm not taking my case more so the lack of courtesy and lack of professionalism that yall show. And me leaving 1 star reviews has nothing to do with you nor did you experience what I did dealing with those people. If you would of put up that same effort to get back in contact with me as you said you would then you wouldn't have received my review. Companies like this expect people to stay silent about their experience.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Eternal faith
The hardest working firm in Columbia.
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05 Dec, 2023 by Jennifer
Jenkins was very communicative and available for my calls when he was initially gathering information from me in order to support my mother’s case (as she was pregnant with me when my dad was stationed at CL.)
It seems at this point there must not be a case to be made, even though he led her to believe she’d be receiving “6-figures” in compensation for years of chronic health conditions.
At this point, all communication from him has stopped.
It is not an unreasonable expectation for him to have the courtesy, after all of the time our family put into getting him what he asked for, to provide closure to this process.
Very disappointed in lack of professionalism and false hope he gave my mom at beginning of this process.
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10 Nov, 2023 by Thomas hill, p.a.
Check out Robert M. He's the best!
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15 Jan, 2025 by H2o's lawn care and landscapes
Mrs. Yvonne is a blessing, she really values her client and when she says she's got you, trust and believe she does! This is coming from a man who had NO trust for lawyers, courts or anything divorce or custody related. God definitely put Yvonne in my path for a reason. She has not only over delivered on many incidents, but also reassures her devotion to you through the whole process. It's easy to not trust, but as long as your doing the right thing, Mrs. Yvonne will take care of her duties as your lawyer. Thank you Yvonne for all you've done so far. You are truly amazing and a God send.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Tyesha mays
My experience with my attorney was absolutely exceptional. Mrs. Yvonne and her staff brought a unique perspective and a genuine understanding of my situation that made me feel seen, heard, and valued. Her knowledge of the law, combined with fierce dedication to justice, made all the difference in my case.
From the moment I walked into their office, they treated me with the utmost respect and professionalism. They were always available to answer my questions, kept me informed every step of the way, and fought tirelessly on my behalf. I could tell they truly cared about my case and about achieving the best outcome for me.
Not only is Mrs. Yvonne an outstanding lawyer, but she is also an incredible advocate for our community. If you’re looking for someone who is sharp, compassionate, and committed to fighting for what’s right, I wholeheartedly recommend them. I am so grateful to have had her in my corner!”
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22 Oct, 2024 by Theressa clark
I HIGHLY recommend Yvonne to anyone facing divorce. She goes hard for her clients and is very supportive throughout the process. From day one she explained everything that I needed to know and when questions arose she responded to them quickly. Office staff is very responsive and professional. Even after my divorce was finalized she still helped with any lingering issues I have. I love that she is very relatable and made me feel comfortable throughout this whole process.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Joe lee
In a world full of horrible lawyers. I was told by 11 lawyers I would not win a case for divorce/child custody. Rachael who was beyond swamped with clients gave me a straight forward consultation and walked me through absolute hell and saved me from losing my children. I am forever in her debt. There are not many like her left in the system. She might be the only one.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Stanley beck
04 May, 2024 by Claudio bogado
26 Sep, 2024 by Mmidnight7
26 Aug, 2024 by Jarsalynn eichelberger
Shannon Polvi is the best in South Carolina. Shannon knows her job well, her advising is on point. If you want a direct, factual, well spoken attorney to support you Shannon Polvi is the one for the job. Awesome Job!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Karen blizzard
Great experience, Attny, Mr. Chance Sturup was very knowledgeable.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Joseph casey
Helpful, knowledgeable, and supportive - would recommend to friends and family
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27 Dec, 2024 by Laura brzys
If & when you had questions someone always got back to you in a timely fashion. They were concerned of your welfare and checked with you from time to time.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Bryan washington
Definitely had a great experience very professional
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20 Nov, 2024 by Steph mureno
Don’t waste your time nor money….Elizabeth Von Keller is useless and she will tell you whatever you wanna hear in your consultation but when you’re put on a retainer, she doesn’t do nothing for you.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Roxanne dziedzic
I was referred to the Finkel Law Firm, specifically Dylan Glick by the SC Lawyer Referral Service. I was scheduled with an appointment for 10/3/24 @ 9am which was a 3 week wait. I called at 9:05 am since no one had contacted me. I was told I was Mr. Glick was tied up on another call, then I was told Mr. Glick does not have me on his schedule. I was put on hold yet again and another person came on telling me my appointment was at 2pm and she never schedules consults for early morning! I'm not really certain why I was treated this way; however, it's absolutely unacceptable. Perhaps because I was referred by the SC Lawyer Referral Service and they discount their fee for the initial consultation. I did reach back out to the SC Lawyer Referral Service to file a complaint and also to find a different attorney for my specific need!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Robert hall
As a father, nothing means more to me than my kids. At the time I had been fighting for my kids with little to no success. I was recommended to Finkle Law Firm 2 years ago, and it's the best decision I've ever invested in. They did the impossible, and helped me gain full custody of my kids, and even more so, had it finalized. Even was able to get the divorce finally done and over with. As well, Finkle Law Firm assisted me with my car wreck, and helped me gain a lot more of a settlement than had I tried it by myself. If you need a law firm that'll stick by your side til the very end, look no further than Finkle Law Firm!
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02 Jan, 2025 by Joseph casey
Helpful, knowledgeable, and supportive - would recommend to friends and family
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27 Dec, 2024 by Laura brzys
If & when you had questions someone always got back to you in a timely fashion. They were concerned of your welfare and checked with you from time to time.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Bryan washington
Definitely had a great experience very professional
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02 Jan, 2025 by Joseph casey
Helpful, knowledgeable, and supportive - would recommend to friends and family
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27 Dec, 2024 by Laura brzys
If & when you had questions someone always got back to you in a timely fashion. They were concerned of your welfare and checked with you from time to time.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Bryan washington
Definitely had a great experience very professional
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17 Jan, 2023 by Cool kid 21
22 Aug, 2021 by Shafee bennett
Iam sorry but Everytime I come here they always short me on my food. I just came and order two fries and I only got one. I try to give them the benefit of the doubt but they always disappoint me. I try not to go to any of the others ones but I can see that I might have to. I will try and give this location one more chance
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14 May, 2021 by Keyron hemphill
02 Dec, 2024 by Sherylharts harts
Fast fair service
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22 Oct, 2024 by Robert f. goings
Hampton Eadon is a great personal injury and trial lawyer! I love working with Hamp on cases in North and South Carolina. Proud to call him a friend!
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22 Jun, 2024 by Quan brig
One of the greatest lawyer in the state of south Carolina. He want to to feel well and mean well. He will fight your case in the best way he can. And want to make sure you get the best satisfaction that you deserve. Mr Barry George is the best attorney. He out beat George sink and Bill Green. Thank you Mr Barry George for your hard work and gratitude.
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27 Jun, 2023 by Denise
I waited three weeks for a phone consult with Ms Mason and paid for child care so I would have full attention during my 30 minute consult. I never received that scheduled call from the office and no one contacted me to cancel which is completely unacceptable. The only way I knew there was a problem was when I called ( after waiting 20 minutes) to ask why I hadn’t received my call and was rudely informed that the assistant and the lawyer were out sick. The receptionist could not explain why I wasn’t given a call, text or email to inform me my appointment was cancelled.
Now I am out 25$ for infant care due to this inconsideration which is also compounded by the stress of an upcoming divorce.
Please do not choose this lawyer through the SC Bar Referral Service!
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09 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Ms Mason took our cold call from Virginia and jumped right in to help. She spent weeks working on our behalf and kept us posted along the way. At the end of this effort she sent a detailed statement. Thank you
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13 May, 2020 by Pw
I could not be more pleased with her representation. When I consulted with her, I was ready to give up. I said "he can have it all, I just want out." She talked with me about being worn down by my situation...and my spouse. She fought for me when I was too tired and worn out to fight for myself. I heard she was a bulldog, which was what I thought I needed. When I met her, I was surprised at how kind, caring and compassionate she was. She is definitely passionate about helping people and truly cares about what her client's need, even when they are to tired do it themselves.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Shakelle bryan
my experience with this law firm was wonderful & very easy going !I highly recommend!!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Natalia cortés
We have a case open for MONTHS and the lawyer assigned to us send my husband to the chiropractor and once he finished it’s been IMPOSIBLE to contacted them again.
We call and always we have to leave a voice mail, which they never return. I’m not really sure if the case is still open.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Lenae phonville
I am very pleased with the level of service that was provided for me if anything else was to happen they would be the first ones I call on speed dial they will go over and beyond for their clients and you won't be disappointed so they get a 100 A++
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19 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Good lawyer he will never be at his law firm you will only talk to him though the woman front desk phone and he let people run it and they suck they take people money even if u have paper work that show proof that I already paid them..in they want call you even if they said they would about your case u would never know nothing.2016
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20 Nov, 2024 by Steph mureno
Don’t waste your time nor money….Elizabeth Von Keller is useless and she will tell you whatever you wanna hear in your consultation but when you’re put on a retainer, she doesn’t do nothing for you.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Roxanne dziedzic
I was referred to the Finkel Law Firm, specifically Dylan Glick by the SC Lawyer Referral Service. I was scheduled with an appointment for 10/3/24 @ 9am which was a 3 week wait. I called at 9:05 am since no one had contacted me. I was told I was Mr. Glick was tied up on another call, then I was told Mr. Glick does not have me on his schedule. I was put on hold yet again and another person came on telling me my appointment was at 2pm and she never schedules consults for early morning! I'm not really certain why I was treated this way; however, it's absolutely unacceptable. Perhaps because I was referred by the SC Lawyer Referral Service and they discount their fee for the initial consultation. I did reach back out to the SC Lawyer Referral Service to file a complaint and also to find a different attorney for my specific need!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Robert hall
As a father, nothing means more to me than my kids. At the time I had been fighting for my kids with little to no success. I was recommended to Finkle Law Firm 2 years ago, and it's the best decision I've ever invested in. They did the impossible, and helped me gain full custody of my kids, and even more so, had it finalized. Even was able to get the divorce finally done and over with. As well, Finkle Law Firm assisted me with my car wreck, and helped me gain a lot more of a settlement than had I tried it by myself. If you need a law firm that'll stick by your side til the very end, look no further than Finkle Law Firm!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Steph mureno
Don’t waste your time nor money….Elizabeth Von Keller is useless and she will tell you whatever you wanna hear in your consultation but when you’re put on a retainer, she doesn’t do nothing for you.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Roxanne dziedzic
I was referred to the Finkel Law Firm, specifically Dylan Glick by the SC Lawyer Referral Service. I was scheduled with an appointment for 10/3/24 @ 9am which was a 3 week wait. I called at 9:05 am since no one had contacted me. I was told I was Mr. Glick was tied up on another call, then I was told Mr. Glick does not have me on his schedule. I was put on hold yet again and another person came on telling me my appointment was at 2pm and she never schedules consults for early morning! I'm not really certain why I was treated this way; however, it's absolutely unacceptable. Perhaps because I was referred by the SC Lawyer Referral Service and they discount their fee for the initial consultation. I did reach back out to the SC Lawyer Referral Service to file a complaint and also to find a different attorney for my specific need!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Robert hall
As a father, nothing means more to me than my kids. At the time I had been fighting for my kids with little to no success. I was recommended to Finkle Law Firm 2 years ago, and it's the best decision I've ever invested in. They did the impossible, and helped me gain full custody of my kids, and even more so, had it finalized. Even was able to get the divorce finally done and over with. As well, Finkle Law Firm assisted me with my car wreck, and helped me gain a lot more of a settlement than had I tried it by myself. If you need a law firm that'll stick by your side til the very end, look no further than Finkle Law Firm!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Steph mureno
Don’t waste your time nor money….Elizabeth Von Keller is useless and she will tell you whatever you wanna hear in your consultation but when you’re put on a retainer, she doesn’t do nothing for you.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Roxanne dziedzic
I was referred to the Finkel Law Firm, specifically Dylan Glick by the SC Lawyer Referral Service. I was scheduled with an appointment for 10/3/24 @ 9am which was a 3 week wait. I called at 9:05 am since no one had contacted me. I was told I was Mr. Glick was tied up on another call, then I was told Mr. Glick does not have me on his schedule. I was put on hold yet again and another person came on telling me my appointment was at 2pm and she never schedules consults for early morning! I'm not really certain why I was treated this way; however, it's absolutely unacceptable. Perhaps because I was referred by the SC Lawyer Referral Service and they discount their fee for the initial consultation. I did reach back out to the SC Lawyer Referral Service to file a complaint and also to find a different attorney for my specific need!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Robert hall
As a father, nothing means more to me than my kids. At the time I had been fighting for my kids with little to no success. I was recommended to Finkle Law Firm 2 years ago, and it's the best decision I've ever invested in. They did the impossible, and helped me gain full custody of my kids, and even more so, had it finalized. Even was able to get the divorce finally done and over with. As well, Finkle Law Firm assisted me with my car wreck, and helped me gain a lot more of a settlement than had I tried it by myself. If you need a law firm that'll stick by your side til the very end, look no further than Finkle Law Firm!
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16 Feb, 2023 by Ambree armstrong
Attorney Desaussure and his staff were very professional and easy to work with. He always made sure everything that was done was in my best interest. I will definitely work with Desaussure Law Firm again if ever needed!
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24 Jan, 2023 by Demetrius lamont hughey
Love this lawyer he good at what he do
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17 Jan, 2023 by A michelle
I have had the pleasure of Attorney Dessausure and his staff assisting me several times. He and his staff are compassionate, personable, and extremely knowledgeable. I would and do highly recommend his services to anyone in need!
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22 May, 2018 by Anonymous
My almost simple divorce case took almost a year. In almost every communication of a legal nature from his office there were typos, incorrect addresses and other errors which delayed things profusely. I don't know who is working in the office with him but they were messing up addresses and all other things on the documents and it was a constant battle to proofread and make sure everything was in order. In addition he had me pay 15 hours {over $2500> up front for what he described as a simple divorce "that you could almost just file yourself". He said it should be pretty much cut and dry and the only reason that it would be great to have a lawyer is to make sure that everything was filed properly with the clerk, and so forth. That being said it took almost a full year from the day I hired him to actually get this to court and get the divorce finalized even though the separation requirements for the state were fulfilled. Slow to respond and usually only by email unless it was no chick matter for him. He also said that at the end if it was as easy as he thought it would be that there would probably be some hours left over and those will be refunded to me but of course miraculously, and true lawyer fashion it was exactly the amount of hours that I paid for upfront. The only reason those extra hours would have even been spent will because of their mistakes anyway.
Three stars for the outcome because of his knowledge, professionalism and experience, and it did get done the way I wanted it to turn out. I'd give it one star for overall value and the time it took was horrible
Only recommend upfront if you understand it will take a while watch your paperwork and it's not going to be cheap. And don't expect a refund no matter what they tell you which I kind of knew but I was hoping for better
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22 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
I sought Mr. Starkes’ service for 2 matters. His staff was very nIce and helpful. I requested assistance for my family purchase of property and for a will amendment for my mom.
The closing was handled in a very professional manner and Mr. Starkes addressed various concerns of my family members, who were located in California. Long story short, the closing was handled in the manner my family desired. And as a result, my has used his firm for more closings and other matters. I found him to be very pleasant, polite, and knowledgeable.
As to the will, I sent my mom to Mr. Starkes to make amendments bc I could not do the amendments. My mom was very satisfied and appreciated Mr. Starkes services. She was able to repeat the advice to me and received all the help regarding her concerns. Since then, she has passed and in review of the Will, Mr. Starkes address must mom’s will in the manner she requested. I think this is why she adored him as her attorney. Since then, I have given Mr. Starkes’ information to several friends and customers in the Columbia area.
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04 Mar, 2020 by Charlotte
We hired Xavier Starkes to help my mother get her will, papers, directives in order. He was recommended by a friend. Boy, am I glad she suggested we go to him. He was very professional, but personable at the same time. He was very precise about what he was doing and even made calls to banks, etc. to make sure everything was in order. We have, finally, found a lawyer we can use forever.
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22 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Hired Xavier to represent me to negotiate with the insurance company after a boat accident in which I sustained significant facial injuries.
I feel Xavier didn't put the time in to understand the whole picture. He seemed to do a cursory review, if that, of everything. He was telephoning me at least five or six times a week for five months during his representation of me, and I felt I continuously had to reiterate the same things over and over to him. I finally became frustrated and had a conversation with him about it, relayed to him everything he kept getting incorrect, and expressed I was not happy. Three, four days later, he sends me his first draft of the demand letter, and the things I had JUST expressed to him in that conversation were incorrect were still incorrect!
In his initial draft of the demand letter to the insurance adjuster, he didn't even have the mechanics of the accident correct. He indicated I was thrown from the boat necessitating a water rescue. I had relayed to him AT LEAST 50 times the boat hit the pylon, my face flew into the center console and was knocked unconscious, another occupant got a life jacket on me, and THEN the boat sank. Although I told him repeatedly I remembered floating in the river and then being pulled up on the overturned boat and that I had floated in the river for at least 30-40 minutes before the rescuers got to us, he indicated in the letter I had no memory of anything. In fact, he was also told I was not sleeping well because I was having nightmares about it. So with all the information I provided him, plus our nearly-every-day telephone conversations about everything, he definitely should have had that down by five months!
He also didn't have my medical providers or all of the treatment I received correct, and it didn't include some of the significant injuries I sustained outlined (tooth shoved up in my jaw, breaking the jaw and requiring surgery, and shifting of facial bones from impact were the big ones, but there was swelling and bruising that lasted for months as well).
I kept copious notes of my recovery and treatment and conversations with my medical providers and photographed my injuries and the healing process. Xavier was in possession of all of it. In fact, I mainly maintained those records for him so that everything would be all laid out for him. It was disheartening to learn at the end the information I was providing him he wasn't taking the time to read and digest. That is what a client hires an attorney for!
Along with a couple of facial surgeries, I had a few bumps in the road during my recovery. My life consisted of and I was focused on doctor's appointments, surgeries, and recovering. That's why I hired a lawyer in the first place. So I put my trust in Xavier, and I feel it was his job to know my case intimately, to learn all the facts, understand the treatment and surgeries and who the medical providers are, and have a concrete grasp of all the injuries suffered, all so that when it comes time to put the demand letter together and begin negotiations, he is able to speak intelligently about my case and advocate for me with vigor. Unfortunately, that didn't happen.
Therefore, Xavier gets two thumbs down.
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10 Oct, 2023 by Jennifer mack
26 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
This lawyer is egoic and under educated and unhelpful. I would never recommend. Lacks knowledge, skill and tact.
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20 Jun, 2023 by Terry boyce
No help. No return call as promised
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08 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Extremely poor at communicating status of an on-going auto accident case and felt very out of touch with status of everything for almost a year. The only way we could get updates was to consistently email to follow up, which would then initiate a little movement. Never did we pro-actively get any type of update or status of any sort.
Once we were assigned to a new lawyer, it became very apparent that things were sitting and were not being “worked”. Within 2 days, we had more movement than we did in almost a year.
Disappointed to say I would not recommend.
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06 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired for a personal injury case and honestly not very happy or impressed with performance. I didn't feel involved in my case and I didn't really know what was happening. She seemed very uninterested and uninvolved. It almost felt at times like she was.working.for.the other guys and it was very difficult to communicate with her since her secretary was always receiving and sending communication between us.
Did I lose? No.
Do I feel like I won? Also, no.
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12 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I do not recommend her for a military divorce. Poor service. Over charged me. She outright lied to me, but stated things to protect her. She represent opposing side in my opinion rather than me, the paying client.
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06 Nov, 2017 by Miguel
I was very impressed with Ms. Metts. She was not only well versed in the law but she was very realistic when explaining me the likely outcome of my case. She fought hard for me and I never felt neglected. I referred my brother and he was pleased as well.
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02 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms. Metts would not follow up on my e-mails about questions I had. She was not prepared therefore she did not fight for me. Because of her error items that was suppose to have been in the divorce decree were left out when I brought it to her attention Sept 2016 she said she would explain it to the judge so I can get an amended decree and since then I have been sending her e-mails and to this day it seems as if she is confused about what the issue is. Her explanation on Feb. 28, 2017 sounds like it is left to the opposing attorney for me to have the right to go back to court when the opposing attorney client( which is my ex-husband) has violated the judge order. Overcharged and was not represented.
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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:
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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.
