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19 Mar, 2012 by Donna
I retained Attorney Machado on a couple of occassions and he was not only professional, but he was compassionate and extremely knowledgeable. He was able to help my family through a very rough time and I will always be thankful. I highly recommend Attorney Machado.
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23 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
I found this lawyer to be both mediocre and a bit strange. I got the feeling that all he wanted to do was settle my case so he could avoid having to go to trial.
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27 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
He said what he was going to do and Did it! Had my charges dismissed. Very happy that I chose this law firm.
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03 Nov, 2016 by Rafael
The best thing I did was call John I had two cases my first offer was 2 years he got me off clean with out probation or time he is affordable and reliable. Last year in a other city I got a other charge that carry mandatory 2 to 5 he got me to walk again with out any probation or time case he took his time and did his homework and took my case to heart. I will recommend him to anybody.......... Rafael
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25 May, 2016 by Lauren
A few years ago, John took my case for two felonies I was being charged with. He was not only an amazing lawyer, but an amazing friend. He explained to me every step of the case and guided me in what I needed to do in order to win my case. He recommended places to help with my alcohol abuse. He spoke to me like he would to a friend, maybe even family. I knew I was going to be alright with his explanation of everything. This case which included charges like assault and reckless driving was ultimately dismissed. The dismissal of these charges allowed for me to go back to school and more recently obtain my graduate degree!!!! Furthermore, more recently I hired him to help with a friend was wrongly accused. He did a phenomenal job with this case as well. Helping to get my friend a PTA from a 155,000 dollar bond!!! I strongly recommend attorney Bowdren. Not only is he good at what he does, he is befriendable, understanding, kind and caring! I feel like he is part of my family. I thank God for John because without him I do not believe that I would be where I am today! Hats off to you Attorney Bowdren! Excellent job!
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04 Aug, 2024 by Linda martens
As a recent widow in my 70's I had very little experience dealing with contractors. When I needed a contractor to replace a boiler I hired someone who professed to have knowledge of this type of work. Unfortunately he took advantage of my circumstance and was not knowledgeable at all. A simple job took weeks. I paid him in full thinking the job was done correctly. I had to hire a new contractor to replace the unit that was only a year old and installed incorrectly. I contacted Patty who advised me I had been subjected to elder abuse and she took the ball from there and was able to get me reimbursed for what I paid. I will be forever grateful.
Linda
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31 Mar, 2024 by Anna marie carasone
Attorney Cofrancesco is an awesome lawyer. Very organized and knows her way around the court room.
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27 Dec, 2023 by T francis
This lawfirm is very deceptive. Beware
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23 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Am not sure how this person even qualifies as a lawyer. I could do better as a layperson. He is rude , obnoxious and uses every low down scumbag tactic you could imagine while inflating your bills.
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08 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
The guy is a joke. Does the absolute bare minimum to collect a check. Not willing to do any leg work, something a good attorney would do for you, but will certainly charge you for his time when discussing YOUR findings. I feel like I’m an attorney at this point since I’ve had to do more for my case then he has. Having simple requests granted in court by a judge is like pulling teeth and that’s if you can even get him to try. I was under the impression that when you hire an attorney you have someone in your corner willing to fight for you, instead I feel as though I’m fighting this battle alone against their attorney and my own. I now am forced to find another attorney half way through my case to try to save as much as I can, but not without spending plenty of money beforehand on this “lawyer”. Anyone considering him may want to get several other opinions before hiring. He talks a good game when you originally speak to him, but soon as you give him a retainer and has to do some work, watch your case fall apart. Very disappointed with this choice, so many better out there for the same money.
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24 Apr, 2017 by Katy
I worked with Atty. Toney Pignatiello and Eva at the Upton Law Firm.
Atty. Pignatiello handled a car accident lawsuit where myself and infant daughter were in the care and were rear ended at a stop sign. We had hired a previous attorney had completely neglected our case, phone calls and urgent deadlines. Atty. Pignatiello took an urgent appointment with me, contacted previous attorney, made a smooth transition for us and guided me through finalizing the lawsuit. Eva's detailed work and compassionate manner helped us put an end to a two year long ordeal, and I felt understood, respected, and cared for the entire process with Upton Law Firm. I love the online file access so that I could follow case progress. Atty. Pignatiello advocated for us with both previous neglectful attorney and the other side of the case to ensure we were able to settle and that the settlement we received covered all medical bills and that we were taken care of.
The Upton Law firm is now the firm we use for any legal need. I highly recommend Upton Law Firm to anyone seeking legal guidance and expertise.
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15 Mar, 2022 by Georgette
My experience with Lisa Briwn was stellar.She handled a Divorce that involved three properties, a family business/corporation and thirty years of marriage which was hard on our son
As my worse nightmare u reveled she was sharp,focused,on top of her game and great at negotiating with judges and opponents.
She was well worth every penny
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21 Nov, 2018 by Megd
Grain of salt: this was my husband's lawyer in a no contest and previously amicable divorce. I was never notified of any court appearances. If this lawyer had actually done what said she would do, there would be no issue. But either inept or a straight up liar, she went against my express wishes, never redid the paperwork, and incorporated lies. Cost for me to undo it will be $1500. Plus, she actually caused a delay in the divorce, made tons of extra secret motions to get more money from my stupid ex husband.
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13 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired phillip spillane to represent me on a workmans comp case. He seemed more interested in settling my case than getting me the help i needed. I had to fire him and retain another attorney who actually had my best interest in mind not his. My new attorney was able to get me the corrective surgery I needed. BEWARE dont make the same mistake i made it could cost you, Not just money but pain as well.
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12 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Spillane really knew how to handle my case. He broke the legalese down for me in a way that I could understand and he always made me feel like my case was a top priority. His staff is knowledgeable and helpful. He settled my case in a very timely fashion. I was very pleased with the results.
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19 Jul, 2019 by Alim
Hi is good lawyer im winer on 2003 with immigration hi did nice job i recommend him good price, hard working , good comunication
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28 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
My husband was detained by immigration. Koleci collected $20,000 in fees and NEVER EVEN FILED THE PAPERS !! He did not provide receipts and wanted fees only in cash.
Finally got a new lawyer after 6 long months and my husband was released immediately to join me and our 2 young sons with refugee status.
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13 Feb, 2017 by Dray
Attorney Sean McHugh David Chapman mr. Vargas are the best attorneys in the business brilliant very very very brilliant professional and and pleasant and that goes for the whole office the whole crew very professional the best can't say enough about them they go Way Beyond to help you and your case they give it all they have trust me I'm a very very very very very happy client they are the best in the business the best very very fine oiled machine mr. Sean McHugh did a wonderful job with his whole office operation wonderful place a business wonderful people they will give it all they have trust me I couldn't be happier the best the best the best without this company I would have been in very big trouble 10 star company
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17 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
The worst lawyers our there, I don't even know why I went to this office they didn't even fight for me. It's as though I was bothering them, they are working for me, I'm paying them 20% and still wanna do nothing to help my case I suggest you don't use this lawyer all of them don't deserve to be in the business of helping anyone. Because they don't! Turn away.
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17 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
I've used him, and his associates in multiple cases over the years, I always was worried as most people would be in any legal battle. I was more than happy at the end of each case. I also referred friends to him whom were also more than satisfied. He is a straight shooter and even gave me his personal cell if I ever needed to talk. I highly recommend him for any matter He has a wonderful group of attorney's and fits your case with the best for your situation as he did in all my legal troubles. I clicked 3-5 lawyers have represented me but all were through Martin. He always kept me informed and in some cases did much better than he originally stated. Thank you attorney Gold I am now using his associate for my divorce I have the highest confidence I will be completely satisfied with my representation maybe not the divorce but life is hard sometimes. Call Him for any legal needs you will not be disappointed FYI I am a real client and this review in no way is false.
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16 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
My aunt fell on a defective grate in Connecticut owned by the electric company. This attorney and his associates had this claim in their hands for two years following the accident and did nothing in her behalf up until the day that she died. It is questionable to our large family, that this attorney is not covering up for the electric company.
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24 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Very unprofessional. He kept trying to confuse us about the court date. He called us asking if we were ready for our remote court date, when in fact it was in person. Not reliable, tries to confuse clients, and if I could rate him negative stars I would.
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27 Apr, 2016 by Bela
Where others fail, he succeeds. I had two cases with Attorney Robert Shluger, and I can attest that he has won both of the cases. He has shown professionalism, flexibility, helpfulness and delivered what he promised. He has explained the laws and regulations that we had to consider before taking the cases, gave me an overview of the best and worst scenario, and brought the expected results. For those reasons I would recommend him.
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19 Jun, 2010 by Laquisha mars
He handled my case with excellence, and was prompt to answer my phone calls. I recommend this attorney 150%!
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17 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
He handled my case in the worst manner. I never knew what was going on, never received any call bakcs. I would have to constantly call and basically harass him to get an answer. It was terrible
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04 May, 2018 by Geoff
Attorney Feola was not my original attorney for my MVA/Workers Comp claim, the original attorney took a job with another firm a month after I hired him. I was a bit anxious about having to explain my case to another attorney and start over. However, Attorney Feola was well versed in my case our first meeting, and had a plan for our proceedings. Any issue I had with a Doctor, Workers Comp, physical therapy, etc. he took care of along with Lorrie Cohen, a great paralegal. Attorney Feola prepped me very well for my deposition. It is for this reason we were able to achieve a settlement from the careless drivers insurance company without going to trial. I would recommend Attorney Feola to anyone in need of workers comp representation. I hope to never go through the litigation process again, if I do I will call Attorney Feola.
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10 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
No Communication, did not help me in my case ( took no interest ), temperamental- even testy, in too much of a hurry to acknowledge e-mails or return calls.. The list goes on & on which I suspect is the reason one can't find ANY positive reviews ( or any reviews at all )... Like many lawyers, sticks with a firm for awhile then moves on. Get ANY Attorney but him.
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18 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
He is a criminal that did two years jail time on a federal charge. I can’t believe he still practices law. Search his name, do yourself a favor and hire someone else
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25 Sep, 2020 by Kate
I will definitely recommend my family and friends to Peck & Peck anytime. Everyone that I came in contact with is well informed, knowledge, and respectful and they treat you like a family. I\'m very pleased with the service I received from Peck & Peck and I know I\'m not the only one who feels this way!
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17 Jan, 2024 by Maggie rogers
Jennifer Hauhuth is the ultimate professional. She is knowledgeable and detail oriented. You can rely on her to do everything right. Jennifer is also helpful and compassionate during the difficult times that naturally come with her particular area of expertise. She prepared the wills and handled all accompanying estate planning for everyone in my family. She also handled real estate transactions for us. I would recommend Jennifer to anyone who has any needs in Will preparation, estate planning, and elder care law. She’s the best!
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09 Aug, 2021 by Jay kiley
Atty. Hauhuth is a pleasure to work with. Very straight forward and knowledgeable.
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28 Feb, 2021 by Lisa kent
Harmony Penfield is not a real person--probably my husband's ex wife!!
Penfield is the beach in Fairfield- no coincidence
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15 Apr, 2024 by Robert walsh
I've been utilizing Attorney Allocco's legal services for over four years now, particularly in the realm of Family law, and I couldn't be more satisfied. From the very beginning, Attorney Allocco demonstrated an unparalleled level of professionalism, empathy, and expertise that instantly put me at ease during what was initially a daunting process.
I wholeheartedly recommend Attorney Allocco to anyone in need of legal representation in Family law. Her unwavering dedication, expertise, and compassionate approach truly make her stand out in the field. I am grateful for her support over the years and cannot thank her enough for her outstanding service.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Crimar meddel135
They are not in the location they have on the internet. No response to phone calls or messages. Horrible service.
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04 May, 2023 by Katrina kelly
Allocco & Anderson LLC, was truly exceptional in handling the recent sale of my home. Responsive, knowledgeable and immensely patient with my seemingly endless questions. They made the whole process seem easy!
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01 Jul, 2024 by Kyle oneil
On time and good communication! Helped me from day one even. Very knowledgable and explained everything.
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01 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Tim to represent me on a "gun possession" charge which was a BB Gun. My brother gave him the legal precedent to have the case thrown out and he never once scheduled a meeting with us. Did not return my calls or texts. Just went to court, got continuances, and told me see ya later. No strategy, No compassion, just out for the money.
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22 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
We hired Tim to defend my case. His communication skills are awful. He barely returned any phone calls or texts. He left me in court alone with no representation. We asked multiple times for a sit down with Tim and got nothing. He never explained our case to us or sat down to investigate anything. Hire this man if you want to waste your money and end up hiring another lawyer anyway. We asked for some of our money back and he told us to get lost.
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09 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Jonathan is a superb criminal defense lawyer. I have referred him several clients in the past, and they have all been satisfied with his representation. He kept me and the clients informed of the process of the case at all times. I highly recommend him.
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02 Oct, 2016 by Richard
Took my sons case and failed to appear in court once, then failed to appear at an appointment with my son the day before my son's appearance in court. His office said he was off that day. Did not discuss the case with my son after the initial consultation which he promised a lot. My son is now in prison as this man did very little in his defense.
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01 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Hired this attorney to protect me against forfeiture by government. He took a large retainer, did little work and few hours on my case. Made promises at initial consultation and did not protect me legally at all. After beginning the case, rarely responded even to phone calls.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Corey
This man is a poor excuse for a lawyer. He should work for the D.A not his clients. If you get him get ready to take a plea. I rather defend myself!!!
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10 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I wouldn't recommend him. Unprofessional and doesn't show much interest in defending me. Doesn't answer phone currently. I'm going to give him more time let's see if my review changes
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11 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
He really tells you what can happen and what the best way to go.Excellent
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19 Aug, 2024 by Don
Do Not Hire this lawyer for your family lawyer, he has moved to happy even after firm. He closed his firm due to no staff present in the office. Josh never got anything correct. He will not be a good fit for you! Do not hire this man for your family lawyer!
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28 Nov, 2023 by Liz
I can not recommend Josh Balter enough. He completely changed the trajectory of my life and my daughter’s life. He was with me every step of the way. He made sure I knew everything that was happening and was comfortable with every decision that was being made. I love that his only focus is family law it is truly what makes him a stand out lawyer. I don’t think I would be where I am today with our having Josh on my side. I am eternally grateful to Josh for all he did for my Daughter. He put her at ease and we never have to worry like we did before. If you’re looking for a family law lawyer look no further than Josh Balter. I’ve is one of a kind. A truly special attorney. Josh, thank you. You changed our life.
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22 Nov, 2023 by Keith l
Working with Mr. Balter was a complete nightmare. He was unresponsive to my calls and emails and seemed to have little interest in my case. When I did finally manage to speak with him, he was rude and dismissive, making me feel like my concerns were unwarranted. He charged exorbitant fees for minimal work and did not seem to have my best interests at heart. I would not recommend Balter Law, LLC to anyone in need of legal representation.
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16 Aug, 2021 by Rebel
I was introduced to Frank by a prominent client. He was gracious enough to answer some basic legal questions about issues I was contending with, yet details matter! Not only did he waste months of my time with filing errors that he made per a basic claim wrong... His lack of attention to detail ended up with the payment for the matter being voided for being held up for over 100 days. All while answering personal calls during one of our consultations and on another occasion disregarding legitimate information per harassment as "paranoia" (his words) in a completely dishelved office space. I must say that this lawyer definitely takes a BIAS approach with women, and if you're looking into being fairly and equally represented especially in a criminal case... Say your prayers. I'd definitely recommend women clients in particular to go elsewhere, I'd be paranoid not to!
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06 Dec, 2023 by Stephen masi
Hostile work environment.
Discriminatory Hiring Practices.
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22 Feb, 2023 by Helen girouard
Horrible
Very clique and favoritism
Unrealistic expectations
No guidance
Always negative feedback
Very stressful place to work
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27 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Complete waste of money
Call and you’ll never get an answer
Her secretary will genially tell you she will give the attorney your message but you will wait and wait and wait and still not get a call back
The few times we did have a conversation assured me she was working hard on my case
I waited over a year! for a “complete accounting “ regarding how she’d spent my retainer-after she’d told me I’d have it in a week’s time
and, she never got me my divorce. I had to hire another attorney
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27 Aug, 2015 by Thomas
My wife hired attorney Rebimbas for a post nuptial agreement. The only time I ever spoke to her on the phone was the first day I called the office asking to arrange for an attorney. She picked up the phone that day right away, and agreed a deal for an extremely reasonable fee.
However, you get what you pay for. My attorney has made countless attempts to contact attorney Rebimbas and she has not made herself available at ALL. It's laughable. The terms of the postnuptial were agreed in February, and it is now nearly SEPTEMBER. Here is how it goes- it takes about 9 weeks for the attorney to respond to your inquiries. In our case, we would arrange to meet on a Saturday for a signing. On Friday afternoon at 4:45 pm she would email us, asking for a copy of the postnuptial, one that my attorney sent her weeks ago. Then, she would read through it and find problems the morning of our appointment, cancelling our signing. Then, she would email all the corrections to my attorney to make, he'd make them, but guess what! Another 9 weeks waiting. 9 weeks of calling the office every other day and the secretary just repeats the same. "I'll be sure to leave the message for the attorney."
To be fair, it is clear she is extremely busy working at the state courthouse. But that is no excuse to ignore her paying clients. She never should have accepted our case if she is overloaded. It has been a nightmare and we have been fighting over this trivial issue that could have been wrapped up with another attorney so easily. Now we will have to pay another attorney to finish our case if she doesn't answer in a few weeks. Just an absolute nightmare. She's clearly a competent attorney, but never available, so what's the use.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Stephen masi
Hostile work environment.
Discriminatory Hiring Practices.
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22 Feb, 2023 by Helen girouard
Horrible
Very clique and favoritism
Unrealistic expectations
No guidance
Always negative feedback
Very stressful place to work
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28 Apr, 2017 by Jon
If you want a honest, thorough opinion of my experiences with Attorney Matthew Reale you can email me with your questions to
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16 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I had an unusually strong case which could have easily been settled out of court; the defense admitted full liability for the damages I suffered! I wasn't given proper advice before or during the trial and
Mr. Skolnick allowed the defense to humiliate me before the jury by questioning me about irrelevant issues that had nothing to with my case. He did not present the evidence in a convincing manner and to make matters worse, he held back evidence that I had specifically requested be presented at the trial.
I had many lawyers who were very interested in my case.
Unfortunately I didn't change lawyers when I had the opportunity.
Overall this negative experience turned out to be the price of an education!
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07 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
From past experience this lawyer will throw you under the bus. He will redact papers in order to keep your money. This is fact so be careful. Settle your case abd tell you its not settled because you may have signed papers. If you are asked to give power to negotiate dont do it because that paper might say you settle your case for a small amount that way you cant even get undeinsured claim process. Hey people this lawyer said the case waz settled for a dollar. When one party settled for an amount and the other party settled for a dollar something is wrong. Thats it he complained and left me to represent myself. I get hurt by a hit and run guy. There were two of us and he settled for an amount with the other party but me he said i have hom permission to settle for a dollar. Now my underinsured claim is in jeopardy. I was told a lot of bs you know. I was done wrong big time. I hace not gone to the right place i am waiting for my old insurance to do the right thing. But i will not use this lawyer anymore. Papers did not look right compare to what i signed but oh well. I do not matter.
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02 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
He was supposed to help my brother in an injury case, instead he messed it all up! If it wasn’t for us hiring another attorney, my poor brother would be in very bad shape.
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02 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
I don't know how this man stays in business! His staff is beyond rude, the woman who answers the phone (Linda) has scoffed at me and given me attitude. They claimed they would have things done on time but never did. And then to top it all off the week I had to close on my property they closed down for a week! When I asked if there was anyone covering there wasn't! Find someone else do not waste $800 on this man he doesn't do a thing to deserve it!
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08 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Never returned calls or emails. He missed multiple court dates. Do not hire!
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08 Apr, 2021 by Andrew
My experience with the Adelman law fire was a disaster. Dan the lawyer I haired to handle all my post divorce issues was never available to discuss my case. It was done through a series of emails. The only time i was able to see Dan was 20 minutes prior to going into court. This was the extent of reviewing my issues.
I was quoted a fixed fee to handle all maters but was forced to give additional monies to Dan throughout the process in order for him to proceed.
He is never prepared
He never returns phone calls
He never filed any of the motions I prepared for him to file
He never reviews you case prior to court date
He is rude and always asking for more money. Please do your homework before hiring Dan Adelman. Read other site reviews of him and his poor work ethics
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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:
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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.
