Lawyers map
>196
experienced lawyers
Filter by
24 Aug, 2024 by Kaleb burch
Helped me through a very difficult time in my life, very clear and precise and got things handled swiftly, professionally, and tactfully.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Angela hayes
If you find yourself in trouble and you need a great attorney that has your back and will fight for you Frank Malocu is the one, he’s the best!!!!!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Shawn hall
If you're looking for an incredible attorney who will advocate for you, look no further. Not only does Mr. Malocu have decades of experience litigating cases for thousands of clients, he also has experience as a sit in magistrate. While he understands how magistrates and prosecutors think, he is also very well respected in court rooms all over the Miami Valley. I've dealt with numerous attorneys over the years for minor traffic violations, divorce and custody matters and not one holds a handle to Frank. Shockingly, he's very reasonably priced as well. Ask yourself, what kind of attorney will call you at 7am or 9pm, or on weekends when he's out of town visiting family? An attorney who deeply cares for you.
This. Is. The. Guy. Folks.
Read more
24 Aug, 2024 by Kaleb burch
Helped me through a very difficult time in my life, very clear and precise and got things handled swiftly, professionally, and tactfully.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Angela hayes
If you find yourself in trouble and you need a great attorney that has your back and will fight for you Frank Malocu is the one, he’s the best!!!!!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Shawn hall
If you're looking for an incredible attorney who will advocate for you, look no further. Not only does Mr. Malocu have decades of experience litigating cases for thousands of clients, he also has experience as a sit in magistrate. While he understands how magistrates and prosecutors think, he is also very well respected in court rooms all over the Miami Valley. I've dealt with numerous attorneys over the years for minor traffic violations, divorce and custody matters and not one holds a handle to Frank. Shockingly, he's very reasonably priced as well. Ask yourself, what kind of attorney will call you at 7am or 9pm, or on weekends when he's out of town visiting family? An attorney who deeply cares for you.
This. Is. The. Guy. Folks.
Read more
24 Aug, 2024 by Kaleb burch
Helped me through a very difficult time in my life, very clear and precise and got things handled swiftly, professionally, and tactfully.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Angela hayes
If you find yourself in trouble and you need a great attorney that has your back and will fight for you Frank Malocu is the one, he’s the best!!!!!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Shawn hall
If you're looking for an incredible attorney who will advocate for you, look no further. Not only does Mr. Malocu have decades of experience litigating cases for thousands of clients, he also has experience as a sit in magistrate. While he understands how magistrates and prosecutors think, he is also very well respected in court rooms all over the Miami Valley. I've dealt with numerous attorneys over the years for minor traffic violations, divorce and custody matters and not one holds a handle to Frank. Shockingly, he's very reasonably priced as well. Ask yourself, what kind of attorney will call you at 7am or 9pm, or on weekends when he's out of town visiting family? An attorney who deeply cares for you.
This. Is. The. Guy. Folks.
Read more
07 Sep, 2024 by Lori woolf
They are wonderful people, and helping me with my case, i appreciate all of them for working so hard on my case
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by Vonda mullins
There very respectful. And on the ball!
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by Tony steele
Very kind and courteous. Also very professional and time oriented as well . Wouldn't recommend using any legal services besides theses guys.
Read more
24 Aug, 2024 by Kaleb burch
Helped me through a very difficult time in my life, very clear and precise and got things handled swiftly, professionally, and tactfully.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Angela hayes
If you find yourself in trouble and you need a great attorney that has your back and will fight for you Frank Malocu is the one, he’s the best!!!!!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Shawn hall
If you're looking for an incredible attorney who will advocate for you, look no further. Not only does Mr. Malocu have decades of experience litigating cases for thousands of clients, he also has experience as a sit in magistrate. While he understands how magistrates and prosecutors think, he is also very well respected in court rooms all over the Miami Valley. I've dealt with numerous attorneys over the years for minor traffic violations, divorce and custody matters and not one holds a handle to Frank. Shockingly, he's very reasonably priced as well. Ask yourself, what kind of attorney will call you at 7am or 9pm, or on weekends when he's out of town visiting family? An attorney who deeply cares for you.
This. Is. The. Guy. Folks.
Read more
24 Aug, 2024 by Kaleb burch
Helped me through a very difficult time in my life, very clear and precise and got things handled swiftly, professionally, and tactfully.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Angela hayes
If you find yourself in trouble and you need a great attorney that has your back and will fight for you Frank Malocu is the one, he’s the best!!!!!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Shawn hall
If you're looking for an incredible attorney who will advocate for you, look no further. Not only does Mr. Malocu have decades of experience litigating cases for thousands of clients, he also has experience as a sit in magistrate. While he understands how magistrates and prosecutors think, he is also very well respected in court rooms all over the Miami Valley. I've dealt with numerous attorneys over the years for minor traffic violations, divorce and custody matters and not one holds a handle to Frank. Shockingly, he's very reasonably priced as well. Ask yourself, what kind of attorney will call you at 7am or 9pm, or on weekends when he's out of town visiting family? An attorney who deeply cares for you.
This. Is. The. Guy. Folks.
Read more
24 Aug, 2024 by Kaleb burch
Helped me through a very difficult time in my life, very clear and precise and got things handled swiftly, professionally, and tactfully.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Angela hayes
If you find yourself in trouble and you need a great attorney that has your back and will fight for you Frank Malocu is the one, he’s the best!!!!!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Shawn hall
If you're looking for an incredible attorney who will advocate for you, look no further. Not only does Mr. Malocu have decades of experience litigating cases for thousands of clients, he also has experience as a sit in magistrate. While he understands how magistrates and prosecutors think, he is also very well respected in court rooms all over the Miami Valley. I've dealt with numerous attorneys over the years for minor traffic violations, divorce and custody matters and not one holds a handle to Frank. Shockingly, he's very reasonably priced as well. Ask yourself, what kind of attorney will call you at 7am or 9pm, or on weekends when he's out of town visiting family? An attorney who deeply cares for you.
This. Is. The. Guy. Folks.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Brian casteel
Marylyn and Zack were great people! I had three strokes and three stents put in my heart, and they were sincere and nice as a family. Everybody in the office was more than helpful if I could give them 10 stars, I would. Thank you all!
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Terry kassnel
Donoff, Lutz, and Associates should be your first and only Attorneys office to handle your case, they are hard working, compassionate, and kind!!
The Office ALWAYS takes my calls, making me feel like family, if I could, I would leave more than a 5 star rating.
Thank you a million!
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Matthew stegall
10 Feb, 2017 by Richard
He helped me out in my situation when I was down and still needed custody of my son as the mother was acting crazy. He took the case got me temporary custody first and still working on the case. I would recommend Tony to someone in need.
Read more
29 Jul, 2016 by Tony comunale
Mr. Comunale is an excellent attorney and I highly recommend him to anyone facing a child custody/divorce case. He worked a miracle for my children and I. He was my third attorney in my 4 year divorce/child custody case battle. I came to him desperate with what appeared to be a hopeless situation. Unfortunately, I had two professional custody report recommendations against me at the time and it appeared that the writing was on the wall and I was going to lose custody of my children. The best I thought Mr. Comunale could do was to minimize the damage of what had already been done. Just the exact happened. It is hard to believe, but with two professional custody report recommendations against me he went into trial professional, prepared, and determined to win the case and he did! He went the extra mile and produced not only a positive outcome but the ultimate conclusion of gaining child custody for me. In my opinion, and after hiring other attorneys, Mr. Comunale stands apart and above other Dayton attorneys. I am very grateful to him because I know if it weren't for his experience, professionalism, and dedication I wouldn't have custody of my children. If you have just begun a child custody/divorce case or whether you are further into a case which seems hopeless, you owe it to yourself and your children to seek Mr. Comunale's representation.
Read more
17 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Comunale is my trusted agent. In every conversation regarding a legal question I had, he was first and foremost concerned with my wellbeing. This was the case when I sought his opinion on a family law issue and most recently as a consultation relating to a personal injury case. Mr. Comunale thoroughly informed me on aspects of law I never knew were relevant and through his guidance I have protected my interests without making myself vulnerable to another party. This is a professional that will slave away to protect his client. I consider him to be completely trustworthy and a true professional.
Read more
21 Nov, 2020 by Michael
It won’t take long for you to realize that you’re dealing with someone who rises above the rest. He was the only lawyer that showed interest to take my call after his paralegal put my call through with the same information I gave everyone else I called. He put his heart into his work every step of the way and he humbly showed he really cares. When he was out of the office with a family member in the hospital he didn’t hesitate to return my email. I could just feel he was motivated from the start to do what is right with respect to my legal issue. If law was an exact science we wouldn’t need a lawyer. His understanding of how the law nuances pertained to my case almost made me feel his thinking is one with the court and as a result landed me on the best shade of gray in this not so black and white world of law. Coincidentally, unbenounced the opposing lawyer had represented me in the past and I could see all along the respect they had for one another which is always useful when finding the best possible outcome which may involve some type of compromise. It was a whole experience not only on an interpersonal level but with everyone involved within his firm from the lawyer working under him right down to the paralegal and not to mention with the unobjective court as it pertained to my case. I can’t imagine having any better possible outcome if given the opportunity to choose any high profile lawyer.
Read more
18 Sep, 2018 by Richard
I hired Miller for an appeal. His appeal lacked the grounds that was mentioned in the notice of appeal. It is my opinion that his quality of performance was extremely poor. Miller did not return my phone calls after he was paid. Office staff were rude. It is my recommendation that anyone seeking legal advice or counsel seek elsewhere.
Read more
26 Feb, 2018 by Jacob
I’ve dealt with a few attorneys int he Dayton area, and Mr. Miller was easily the best one. Michael was in constant contact with me throughout the entire process of reinstating my license. He walked me through each step and updated me as he gathered information. Even if I had not had a favorable outcome (I did!), this was the best attorney experience I have ever had. Thanks again!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Frtyefujpevon walker
Great representation. Very upfront and honest. Goes the extra mile for her clients. She handles business and means business. Would highly recommend. 10/10
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Jayden
Absolutely amazing!
Read more
23 Apr, 2024 by Jason green
03 Oct, 2024 by Michael long
They want you to sign documents stating they'll take 33.5% of the payout before you speak to an attorney. What a joke.
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Jan repp
If there were zero stars I'd have chosen that. Called twice to schedule an appointment, no response. They were even a referral. I have let the lawyer who did the referral know how poor his choice was. SMH.
Read more
17 Jun, 2024 by Nbayman
Did a great job on my case, didn’t stop fighting for me. Can’t thank them enough, jack and kev are great attorneys and will do right by your side!
Read more
5.0
2 Reviews
4.4
123 Reviews
03 Oct, 2024 by Michael long
They want you to sign documents stating they'll take 33.5% of the payout before you speak to an attorney. What a joke.
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Jan repp
If there were zero stars I'd have chosen that. Called twice to schedule an appointment, no response. They were even a referral. I have let the lawyer who did the referral know how poor his choice was. SMH.
Read more
17 Jun, 2024 by Nbayman
Did a great job on my case, didn’t stop fighting for me. Can’t thank them enough, jack and kev are great attorneys and will do right by your side!
Read more
11 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. McQuiston is a wonderful attorney. His knowledge and experience in various areas of law have been very helpful to me. Over the years Mr. McQuiston has helped me with a bankruptcy, wills, as well as a traffic matter. He was always kind and respectful to my situation.
Read more
11 Dec, 2018 by Nina
I can't say enough good things about Jeff!! I had a horrible experience with my landlord - my apartment flooded and they refused to return my security deposit. Jeff was able to help me get out of my apartment the right way, and fought for me to get much more than my original deposit due to the delay and other issues. His paralegal is amazing too! They both are so nice and kept in contact with me every step of that way! Highly Recommend!
Read more
11 Dec, 2018 by Ashley
My lawyer and his paralegal Laura were simply amazing. I was in a time crunch with garnishments coming out of both me and my husbands paychecks and they worked so hard and rushed getting our paperwork done to stop out garnishments in the same week! They communicated every need they had and everything with detail on what we still needed to provide to them in a very timely manor and even offered to meet with us on the weekend to make sure all paperwork could be filed asap. I can’t say enough great things about my experience with this office, I appreciate their amazing assistance.
Read more
11 Jul, 2024 by Sarah bryant
If I could give her 0 stars I would. She shouldn’t be practicing. She goes where the money is and who paid her. She was terrible. She meet with me for maybe 20-30 minutes and only cared if I owned my home, how much it cost, how much money I made, and my job title. She had no interest in me as a mother. Now my child is living with a herion addict uncle and a pill popping and pot smoking grandmother. All because they have hand me down money. I am suing and filing many complaints. The injustice needs to stop and they need to start doing what’s in the child best interest.
Read more
13 Aug, 2023 by James hayden
Great service
Read more
07 Jul, 2023 by Tiffany williamson
Jennifer was a bulldog in my custody case! I will forever recommend her.
Read more
08 Sep, 2024 by Ahmad mo
STAY AWAY FROM THOMAS KANDO and SARAH. They will rob you out of your hard earned money and very unprofessional!!
I had an extremely disappointing experience with this law firm, particularly with Thomas Kando. My family engaged their services in November 2023, seeking assistance with a property damage case. During our initial meeting, Mr. Kando assured us that the case was strong and encouraged us to proceed, which we did, trusting his professional judgment.
However, after receiving a $1,000 payment, communication from both Mr. Kando and his assistant Sarah ceased. Despite repeated attempts to contact them via phone and email, we received no responses. On multiple occasions, we visited the office in person, only to be told that we would receive a call back, which never happened. Out of approximately 15 visits, we encountered Sarah twice, and she provided vague, yet falsely reassuring updates about the case’s progress.
It became apparent that they may not have taken any real action on our behalf. We were told that Mr. Kando had allegedly attempted to negotiate with the construction company, but no documentation or evidence of these communications was ever presented to us. By August 2024, nearly nine months later, we confronted Mr. Kando in person after he had avoided us for so long. During this meeting, he informed us that the case was not successful, contradicting his initial optimism and showing little concern for the outcome or for the fact that we had trusted him with our money and our case.
Overall, our experience with this law firm was highly unprofessional, and we felt misled and ignored after they were paid. I would strongly advise caution when considering their services.
Read more
18 Aug, 2023 by Gene bolton
06 Dec, 2021 by Deborah stevenson
Took over 7 years to settle my lawsuit and he took too large a portion of the settlement amount. Out of $140000 he took $90000. After the settlement he showed up with a new Jaguar after he had told me that he needed money for his sons college expenses. I do not reccomend this attorney.
.Never produced expenses or contingent agreement.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by James ogles
I spoke with Marty over a year ago Marty took the time to explain what my options were and he gave me good advice.
I also referred Marty to my girlfriend and he was also very helpful I recommend this firm to anyone that is looking for honest hard-working attorneys
Read more
17 May, 2024 by Paula tracy
24 Mar, 2024 by Derek edington
Great place, nice staff, and experienced attorneys. Thanks
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by James ogles
I spoke with Marty over a year ago Marty took the time to explain what my options were and he gave me good advice.
I also referred Marty to my girlfriend and he was also very helpful I recommend this firm to anyone that is looking for honest hard-working attorneys
Read more
17 May, 2024 by Paula tracy
24 Mar, 2024 by Derek edington
Great place, nice staff, and experienced attorneys. Thanks
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by James ogles
I spoke with Marty over a year ago Marty took the time to explain what my options were and he gave me good advice.
I also referred Marty to my girlfriend and he was also very helpful I recommend this firm to anyone that is looking for honest hard-working attorneys
Read more
17 May, 2024 by Paula tracy
24 Mar, 2024 by Derek edington
Great place, nice staff, and experienced attorneys. Thanks
Read more
11 Jul, 2024 by Sarah bryant
If I could give her 0 stars I would. She shouldn’t be practicing. She goes where the money is and who paid her. She was terrible. She meet with me for maybe 20-30 minutes and only cared if I owned my home, how much it cost, how much money I made, and my job title. She had no interest in me as a mother. Now my child is living with a herion addict uncle and a pill popping and pot smoking grandmother. All because they have hand me down money. I am suing and filing many complaints. The injustice needs to stop and they need to start doing what’s in the child best interest.
Read more
13 Aug, 2023 by James hayden
Great service
Read more
07 Jul, 2023 by Tiffany williamson
Jennifer was a bulldog in my custody case! I will forever recommend her.
Read more
03 Aug, 2024 by James maddox
They explained my options and offered advice very clearly. They didn't even ask for a deposit. Much better than my last lawyer.
Read more
13 Jul, 2024 by Cindi bryan
Awesome would highly recommend
Read more
18 Mar, 2024 by Rick schaefer
04 Sep, 2024 by James ogles
I spoke with Marty over a year ago Marty took the time to explain what my options were and he gave me good advice.
I also referred Marty to my girlfriend and he was also very helpful I recommend this firm to anyone that is looking for honest hard-working attorneys
Read more
17 May, 2024 by Paula tracy
24 Mar, 2024 by Derek edington
Great place, nice staff, and experienced attorneys. Thanks
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Latisha bazin
I paid them over 3 years ago. They have yet to do anything. I asked for a refund now their phone is disconnected. They have several law suits out due to this. I wish I had read the reviews before giving them my money. SCAM !
Read more
01 Sep, 2024 by Christin worthington
Best lawyer around.. caring understanding and knowledgeability. Get experience with Chris as our attorney
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Douglas miley
I used to work for DGM&S before moving out of state in 2008 to join a family practice in West Virginia. During my time there I saw daily how hard the team works for its clients, always trying to help them through a bad time which was not wanted and certainly not expected. Since moving I have continued to keep in touch with many there and continue to consider them my friends. I have co-counseled cases with them and referred clients to them for help over the last 16 years. I will continue to do so because I believe they care, they work hard, they are fantastic lawyers, and the get amazing results on behalf of their clients.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Linda lewis
Attorney Dennis Lieberman office was very helpful and professional on all levels. I highly recommend if needed.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Mustafa ahmed
Will he never call you back
I called 3 times
Every time I call
The office told me leave voice message
And he will call you back. it’s been 2month and a half
I just lost money and time here
0star and last time here
Thanks for doing ((((nothing))).
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Angie lizeth sanchez
Terrible servicio, se firmó un contrato y se pagó y el abogado Mohamed Al-Hamdani no le hace seguimiento a sus clientes, nunca está en oficina y no tiene tampoco secretario que esté atendiendo sus casos, pésimo servicio y perdí tiempo y dinero con ellos.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Linda lewis
Attorney Dennis Lieberman office was very helpful and professional on all levels. I highly recommend if needed.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Mustafa ahmed
Will he never call you back
I called 3 times
Every time I call
The office told me leave voice message
And he will call you back. it’s been 2month and a half
I just lost money and time here
0star and last time here
Thanks for doing ((((nothing))).
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Angie lizeth sanchez
Terrible servicio, se firmó un contrato y se pagó y el abogado Mohamed Al-Hamdani no le hace seguimiento a sus clientes, nunca está en oficina y no tiene tampoco secretario que esté atendiendo sus casos, pésimo servicio y perdí tiempo y dinero con ellos.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Linda lewis
Attorney Dennis Lieberman office was very helpful and professional on all levels. I highly recommend if needed.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Mustafa ahmed
Will he never call you back
I called 3 times
Every time I call
The office told me leave voice message
And he will call you back. it’s been 2month and a half
I just lost money and time here
0star and last time here
Thanks for doing ((((nothing))).
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Angie lizeth sanchez
Terrible servicio, se firmó un contrato y se pagó y el abogado Mohamed Al-Hamdani no le hace seguimiento a sus clientes, nunca está en oficina y no tiene tampoco secretario que esté atendiendo sus casos, pésimo servicio y perdí tiempo y dinero con ellos.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Linda lewis
Attorney Dennis Lieberman office was very helpful and professional on all levels. I highly recommend if needed.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Mustafa ahmed
Will he never call you back
I called 3 times
Every time I call
The office told me leave voice message
And he will call you back. it’s been 2month and a half
I just lost money and time here
0star and last time here
Thanks for doing ((((nothing))).
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Angie lizeth sanchez
Terrible servicio, se firmó un contrato y se pagó y el abogado Mohamed Al-Hamdani no le hace seguimiento a sus clientes, nunca está en oficina y no tiene tampoco secretario que esté atendiendo sus casos, pésimo servicio y perdí tiempo y dinero con ellos.
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Latisha bazin
I paid them over 3 years ago. They have yet to do anything. I asked for a refund now their phone is disconnected. They have several law suits out due to this. I wish I had read the reviews before giving them my money. SCAM !
Read more
01 Sep, 2024 by Christin worthington
Best lawyer around.. caring understanding and knowledgeability. Get experience with Chris as our attorney
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Douglas miley
I used to work for DGM&S before moving out of state in 2008 to join a family practice in West Virginia. During my time there I saw daily how hard the team works for its clients, always trying to help them through a bad time which was not wanted and certainly not expected. Since moving I have continued to keep in touch with many there and continue to consider them my friends. I have co-counseled cases with them and referred clients to them for help over the last 16 years. I will continue to do so because I believe they care, they work hard, they are fantastic lawyers, and the get amazing results on behalf of their clients.
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Latisha bazin
I paid them over 3 years ago. They have yet to do anything. I asked for a refund now their phone is disconnected. They have several law suits out due to this. I wish I had read the reviews before giving them my money. SCAM !
Read more
01 Sep, 2024 by Christin worthington
Best lawyer around.. caring understanding and knowledgeability. Get experience with Chris as our attorney
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Douglas miley
I used to work for DGM&S before moving out of state in 2008 to join a family practice in West Virginia. During my time there I saw daily how hard the team works for its clients, always trying to help them through a bad time which was not wanted and certainly not expected. Since moving I have continued to keep in touch with many there and continue to consider them my friends. I have co-counseled cases with them and referred clients to them for help over the last 16 years. I will continue to do so because I believe they care, they work hard, they are fantastic lawyers, and the get amazing results on behalf of their clients.
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Latisha bazin
I paid them over 3 years ago. They have yet to do anything. I asked for a refund now their phone is disconnected. They have several law suits out due to this. I wish I had read the reviews before giving them my money. SCAM !
Read more
01 Sep, 2024 by Christin worthington
Best lawyer around.. caring understanding and knowledgeability. Get experience with Chris as our attorney
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Douglas miley
I used to work for DGM&S before moving out of state in 2008 to join a family practice in West Virginia. During my time there I saw daily how hard the team works for its clients, always trying to help them through a bad time which was not wanted and certainly not expected. Since moving I have continued to keep in touch with many there and continue to consider them my friends. I have co-counseled cases with them and referred clients to them for help over the last 16 years. I will continue to do so because I believe they care, they work hard, they are fantastic lawyers, and the get amazing results on behalf of their clients.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
