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06 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Case still in Review, so far so good. Overall good attorney. Kept my husband and I informed on court dates and standard regulations. Will update when case is finished
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04 Sep, 2024 by Moni r
Terrible communication with Carlos Quinonez. Would not use this law firm for family practice or general legal representation, unless you are expecting to be highly disappointed. Lack of preparation for court. Schedules appointments and don’t fulfill them or communicate the changes that may or may not come up. The lists continues but I would say hire at your own risk.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Vanessa skye
Yes you stole my money and did absolutely nothing but steal my money. Return my money you didn't earn and we can talk.DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME on this fraud, FIND A COMPETENT ATTORNEY THAT KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE DOING, They DON'T keep their word, they don't research anything and they will just TAKE YOUR MONEY and over bIll you for their mistakes when you tell them don't do that three different times, Then you will have to hire a COMPETENT attorney who will actually do what you pay them for.
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15 May, 2024 by Nicolette ladoulis
09 Feb, 2024 by Rene munoz
Es el mejor abogado de Texas y muchos lugares más 100 % recomendado, exelente persona
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25 May, 2023 by Adrian
If you’re looking for an attorney to be there for you through and through stand by your side. This is not the attorney for you unfortunately. Not only did I barely have any contact with him regarding my cases. Most of the times that I did come into contact with his office is when when they were requesting payments. He always stuck in court I would barely get callbacks from him when I requested them . His assistants said I would need to pay to speak with him when he was busy .When I had a warrant out for my arrest his advice to me was to lay low and to avoid being arrested while he could try to do something for me. I had to leave work for a whole month and not only that he kept pushing my court dates back and I ended up getting picked up and it made me look even worse in front of the judge. He barely defended me in any of my court hearings he would have one statement and after that he would stay silent while the prosecutor had a whole list of things to say about me. Only reason I stuck with him as a lawyer was because I hired his brother initially. Unfortunately after his passing I was not able to get my money back they were going to keep it so I had no choice but to go with him and I regret it fully . He wanted me to sit in jail while I waited for him to fight my case which was practically beat and when I hired him to handle my other case he withdrew after I couldn’t not pay him because I was juggling bills after being released but I was still willing to make small payments. But before I could do so I wanted to speak with him and his assistants requested payment first before I could consult with him. Worst experience I’ve ever had with a paid attorney .
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14 Jan, 2023 by Jose medinas gamefowl page
This was my lawyer for many years. He was a very good man. We didn’t meet on great terms, but he became one of the people I looked up to and admired. He was always there for me not just as my lawyer, but I also as my friend he even represented me without me having to pay him he was a very good man and he will be very much missed. Thank you Victor para for everything you did for me but you rest in peace and God bless you.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Turtle 2010
Great guy he's been our family lawyer since I was a kid and I'm 53yrs old now
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03 Oct, 2024 by Valerie morales
Orlando and his staff are really awesome people and get the job done. Only thing is the dog. Normally I love dogs around, but when you are going for an important case and a dog is barking at you when you walk in. Just throws it off. OTHER Than that, amazing!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Hazel pacheco
Definitely the worst. He was appointed to my brother’s case. Troche would never contact us for any updates regarding my brother’s case, and every time we would call, he’d get annoyed , and even once told my Tia to stop calling . What kind of attorney does that? Lmao. He then proceeded to withdraw himself from the case. He makes no effort whatsoever! Ridiculous.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Turtle 2010
Great guy he's been our family lawyer since I was a kid and I'm 53yrs old now
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03 Oct, 2024 by Valerie morales
Orlando and his staff are really awesome people and get the job done. Only thing is the dog. Normally I love dogs around, but when you are going for an important case and a dog is barking at you when you walk in. Just throws it off. OTHER Than that, amazing!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Hazel pacheco
Definitely the worst. He was appointed to my brother’s case. Troche would never contact us for any updates regarding my brother’s case, and every time we would call, he’d get annoyed , and even once told my Tia to stop calling . What kind of attorney does that? Lmao. He then proceeded to withdraw himself from the case. He makes no effort whatsoever! Ridiculous.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Turtle 2010
Great guy he's been our family lawyer since I was a kid and I'm 53yrs old now
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03 Oct, 2024 by Valerie morales
Orlando and his staff are really awesome people and get the job done. Only thing is the dog. Normally I love dogs around, but when you are going for an important case and a dog is barking at you when you walk in. Just throws it off. OTHER Than that, amazing!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Hazel pacheco
Definitely the worst. He was appointed to my brother’s case. Troche would never contact us for any updates regarding my brother’s case, and every time we would call, he’d get annoyed , and even once told my Tia to stop calling . What kind of attorney does that? Lmao. He then proceeded to withdraw himself from the case. He makes no effort whatsoever! Ridiculous.
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05 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
MR. MORALES WAS AN OUTSTANDING CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY, WE DO NOT LIVE IN EL PASO BUT HE MADE EXTREMELY EASY FOR US AND FOUGHT HARD TO HAVE OUR CASE DISMISSED HIGHLY RECOMMEND FAST FRIENDLY PROFESSIONAL
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27 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Morales was a court appointed attorney for me. When I requested a bench trial, I revealed to him that I have mental disabilities and at high risk for suicide. He told me not to tell him about it, but to seek professional help. I was arrested for a minor offense that has destroyed my ability to work in my chosen profession. He failed to link what my mental disability was like at the time of the charged conduct, and how this limited my reasoning and judgment. He didn't stress to the judge the certainty and severity of my impairment at the time of the incident, in an effort to pursuade the judge to acquit, dismiss or reduce the charge, so that I didn't lose my ability to support myself and retire from my career.
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15 Apr, 2013 by Crystal
Ruben morales was a great attorney he's been representing my family and I for the past 10 years and in all our cases he has been fully in to the case and kept us completely informed of our cases he settled my cases very well and really helped me in a time of frustration! If you want good representation I highly recommend him !! He did not promise anything and kept my whole case confidential! The only thing he promised is to fully be on my case and give me any possible options and advised me of what was best for my case.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Diana juarez
19 Jun, 2024 by Jose jose
Mr. Rudy Perez has been a wonderful help to my driving record. He got 2 traffic citations of mine dismissed. Which were very unjustified. I can't give many details on why they're unjustified, but it'd take to much space and time. The police officer being the main reason.
I would definitely recommend Mr. Perez's services. He, and his team, are very polite, helpful, and thorough with giving you details on how the process is going.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Franco gonzalez
09 Aug, 2024 by Anna
I agree she's the worst lawyer she's only working for the money, you pay her and she goes against the other parent decisions, we are going to take her to court for what she is doing
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30 Jul, 2024 by Ray
Wish I could give them 0 stars . Trash attorney won’t care for your case . Horrible!!!
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09 Jul, 2024 by Jazmine dattoli
If I can give a 0 I would !! This office is the worse don’t spend your time nor money. I have been waiting for a call back since last week regarding
My moms case. Yes she was a attorney that was appointed to her but still you don’t just wash your hands after her last court and not care, that just shows what kind of lawyer you truly are ! I suggest you look elsewhere !!!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Jackie crawley
26 Aug, 2024 by Maisha smith
Bramblett is a great lawyer he’s always won my cases never had any issues. Keep up the great work Patrick Bramblett and staff.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Catherine howell
I wrote a previous review. I was contracted process service. Never could get anyone to open the door, answer the phone, and he doesn't even put his name on the door. Did the work, but he ghosted me. Had to send a demand letter by Certified mail. I finally got the affidavits sent to State of Florida Child Support via One Serve Legal. Mr. Gandsra blocked the service app from producing any affidavits. I never got paid.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Juan enriquez
Excellent customer service and very thoughtful. I recommend his services. Office personnel was great. Dorin was exceptional.
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01 Apr, 2023 by Brad randolph
16 Aug, 2021 by El ryno
Thank you for the great service. Ruben did an excellent job. And Dorin went above and beyond. Thank yall soo much
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05 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Being military i found this lawyer at my base legal/jag office along with a list of low cost lawyers in the el paso area, Beware of this guy. He will talk a big game, tell you he understands military divorces and custody but as soon as you pay him he will brush your case off and find every excuse to not make your case a priority. Because i lived so close to his office it was easy for me to check in on progress on my case. I started services with this lawyer last march, when june came around i was deployed overseas and the only progress made on my case was the inital cause number and information, my spouse was never even served. Come july through october i could not reach him through any phone numbers listed or email, leaving messages and emails constantly asking about progress on my case. After recieving excuses and lies I gave up and sought services elsewhere, and No i have not gotten my money back. This lawyer talks a good game but does not work on your case, doesnt communicate and is anything but professional.
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14 Sep, 2020 by Regina
I hired Atty Copeland in about 2008. My inherited estate left to me was fraudulantly taken from me by adult step children. Although at that time , Atty Copeland had no experience on how to get my probate court issue to trial, this great and very smart and competent man learned by teaching himself how to bring it to trial. And to so many El Paso attorneys, they were in awe. That is what happens with him, a lot. He will blow the minds off doubters and scammers. He did get it to trial in El Paso Probate Court of The Honorable Patricia Chew. A very dishonest atty on Montana St who said to me, "The Martinez curse is when a person is called to account for all the things he has falsely bragged about it gets put in the light and the person is shown to be a person meant to suffer because there is no way he is what he has claimed to be". That man got his own Martinez Curse. Then he abruptly quit and continued to criminally file against me because he wanted to keep and still has my files. Copeland is a man of courage and commitment. And an honorable attorney. He will never get the Martinez Curse. But Mario got it and is still cursed and he will agree. But Atty Copeland is the epitome of what Americans see as the Proverbial Texas Lawyer. God made Atty Copeland so the country and specifically Texas, could know what heaven thinks a good Texan Attorney is. It IS Wm Copeland. I love him. I honor him.
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19 May, 2019 by George
Bill Copeland and his father before him have been handling our families legal affairs since 1972. We have found him to be attentive and offers good advice and counsel.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Sue z
Efficient, knowledgeable, confidential. Easy to work with and understanding. Highly recommend Mr. Paul Kubinsky and legal assistant Mario Saenz.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Laura amato
26 Feb, 2024 by Joseph wucik
Great Service. Imelda was remarkable every step of the way.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Anna
I agree she's the worst lawyer she's only working for the money, you pay her and she goes against the other parent decisions, we are going to take her to court for what she is doing
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30 Jul, 2024 by Ray
Wish I could give them 0 stars . Trash attorney won’t care for your case . Horrible!!!
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09 Jul, 2024 by Jazmine dattoli
If I can give a 0 I would !! This office is the worse don’t spend your time nor money. I have been waiting for a call back since last week regarding
My moms case. Yes she was a attorney that was appointed to her but still you don’t just wash your hands after her last court and not care, that just shows what kind of lawyer you truly are ! I suggest you look elsewhere !!!
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08 Sep, 2022 by Angel
Do not go to this lawyer firm. He was indicted by the Texas Bar Association for stealing money from his clients. They erased all the Google past reviews because the majority of clients were telling the truth about this robbers.
If you were victim by Jesse Herrera, I encourage you to take actions through the Texas Bar. He should be in jail!
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24 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Este abogado NO SIRVE. En 2014 fue contratado por mi familia por un tema de inmigración y al final no hizo nada, solo nos saco dinero.
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20 Mar, 2021 by Carlos
He took money from my parents .promising them that he will help me in my imigration case i did some research and he did not move a finger to help my case. Maibe 6 k is nothing for him but for some of us is alot .that wath he took from my parents whom are elderly ..he shoul be in jail .
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23 Jun, 2022 by John
Sanchez Law Firm was representing me after a vehicle accident. Their communication sucks, they don't answer phone calls or emails. After 8 months, i STILL have no information on my case and Diana is MIA. Do yourself a favor and jump off a bridge before you decide to hire this company; you will be better off.
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02 Mar, 2018 by Mickey
Went to Mr. Sanchez for representation on a personal injury case. He kept me informed throughout the whole process and got me a good settlement. I highly recommend him.
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27 Jun, 2017 by Tyler
I hired Robert Sanchez for a personal injury case. He worked on my case diligently and answered all of my questions. My case was fairly complex because there were multiple causes of my injury. He told me that it was going to take some time but he assured me my case was in good hands. Thankfully, he lived up to his word. Robert did a great job and he communicated with me every time there was a development in my case. His staff was friendly and they made sure Robert got my messages. I highly recommend him for all your legal issues. He was recommended to me by a friend who had used him for some business issues and criminal issues(DWI, aggravated assault). Thank you, Robert! I highly recommend Robert.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Luigi rodriguez
08 Jul, 2024 by Hector rivera
He is a great attorney...
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jacqueline rein
Took care of my speeding ticket for $25
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15 Mar, 2022 by Brenda
Mr. Macias was my court appointed attorney. He did offer me a plea deal buy I insisted I was innocent because I was so he took the time to do his research, build up an excellent case, he really put in the work and was able to prove me innocent to the jury. So grateful its all behind me and that Mr. Macias believed in me.
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01 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Extremely sexist. Constantly reminding my friend she belongs in the kitchen.
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07 Feb, 2018 by John
Very bad!!! he just rushed through everything and just pushed it through the courts. He never took the time to fight for my son's case and show all the evidence that would have cleared him or at least help him. He had us pay money that was from an old case that he wasn't even on and said that it was for the new charges he had. We paid because he said it was going towards the new charges and it would help. He lied. Do not waste your time hiring him.
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10 Oct, 2022 by Andres miranda
20 Jan, 2022 by Anon ymous
Not worth your time
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14 Sep, 2021 by Sophia sashencka
10 Oct, 2022 by Andres miranda
20 Jan, 2022 by Anon ymous
Not worth your time
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14 Sep, 2021 by Sophia sashencka
28 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney Xochitl Ambriz and her team are phenomenal to work with as they make the process smooth, stress-free, honest, effective, efficient, and offer reassurance every step along the way. I know a good lawyer when I work with one! I recommend them with confidence.
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14 Apr, 2023 by Hilda
I don't recommended this lawyer, such a horrible bad experience with the lawyer and her staff, she is all about money, she took long for an easy case with all the people involved in the case agree with everything, and the charge me even if the housekeeping lady see my papers, I never got to see her in person she will miss her appointments with me and never apologized, but they charged me for the appointment, the staff is the worse lied so much and it was always miss information between them, when finally the case was closed I had an appointment witch I missed due to my job, so I called next day left a message and I called again they didn't answer, they never returned my call, when I called again to make Another appointment for my final questions they told me that I have to pay again for a new consulting because supposedly I passed 30 days, I told them that I been calling before the 30 day but they never answered my call. Very rude people, they treated me like I was asking to do the job for free till one day I told them that I will not pay one more penny and that I want my case to be done and of course what happened after they close the case already explained before. The staff and lawyer they don't know what the doing they just want your money.
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03 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Don't hire this attorney!! Paid her $7200 and never finished my case. If she worked on my case instead of billing me we would have finished. All I wanted was some rights to my grandchild whom I have raised since she was born (14 years). Never called me back, didn't even know who I was in the courthouse hall. I went to make payment arrangements and the following week she withdrew from the case (I had to pay for that also). Several discrepancies in the paperwork, all in favor of the other parent but wanted me to pay for her mistakes. To this day I have not gotten any documents from her. Almost two years. SHE'S ALL ABOUT MONEY! Very cold and uncaring.
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12 May, 2016 by Christina
I hired this law firm for my husbend for him to be released for a detainer in 2011. I had called probably 10 lawyer's and they had all denied to take my husbend case. Finally I went down the list of attorneys that were closer to where he was and I called this law firm. I do a free consultation and they told me that he could get out and we'll just listening to them I said forget it and I hired them without taking in the fact of what everyone else said and 1 month later at my husbend court date. Boom he was out. I am sooo thankful I found this firm. Thank you Mr. Ray and Mrs. Patricia..
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15 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Did my paperwork incorrectly and attempted to charge me for the correction. He filed with the court an order appointing my son as his own father and changing his name to the wrong name. Then when I asked him to change it quoted me $2k. His secretary yelled at me for questioning that charge. Is that ethical or legal?
Get it right with a better lawyer who can read and spell.
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19 Nov, 2014 by Jennifer
Unethical.
He made an error on a court order. It states that my son is his own father. When I asked to help change it and even offered to pay the court filing, he requires his retainer. $2500. I wonder if this is a business. Make an error and funnel more money from people? Good idea in theory but save your money and find someone to do it correctly the first time.
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13 Oct, 2016 by Jesus
I completely agree with the previous review. The only time that Mrs Sipes seemed to be engaged and listening to me was during the initial consultation. During the consultation she put me at ease with all her advice and recommendations on how she was going to come after my ex wife. This feeling was short lived. Three months after paying my retainer nothing had been done on my case, I found this out when I called to get a status on my case. Six month went by and nothing much had changed with my case. At this time I took it upon myself to try to work something out with my ex wife in regards to custody with my kids and we came to an agreement. Even after I did all the work for her it still took her 6 months to draw up the paperwork and have it signed by the judge. Her paralegal Robert seems to incompetent, every time he emailed me the child custody order it had the same errors I had just corrected in the previous draft. This went on for a couple of months until I refused to deal with him anymore and only worked with Mrs Sipes son after that. Worst experience ever, would never recommend her to anyone.
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08 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Attorneys are hard to judge on the basis of just a single consultation. One the first visit, most of them seem amazing -- energetic -- optimistic -- motivated.
I was referred to Doris Sipes by another attorney and I found her to be intelligent, soft-spoken, confident and reserved.
At the consultation, we discussed the details of my case and I tried to listen as much as I talked. It seemed to me that we had similar expectations regarding the outcome of my case.
I had heard that Ms. Sipes has a reputation for being a tough attorney and I interpreted the low-energy consultation to be a sign that she was being forthright and honest with me. What a relief to be dealt with in such a respectful way. What a relief to have avoided the typical over-promised sales pitch that I've experienced with other attorneys -- or so I thought.
As the case progressed, I found it hard to get Ms. Sipes attention in any meaningful way. My case wasn't rocket-science but I had some important details that needed to be considered. The question of how to present the relevant details to the court in a way that would make sense was an important issue for me. How do we present a defense for a convoluted case in a way that the court will understand? How do we win?
My attempts to get Ms. Sipes to discuss the nuts and bolts of my case only seemed to make her annoyed. She wouldn't discuss strategy with me and didn't ask me for any evidence to support my defense. All of the evidence presented in court was the evidence that I rushed to have her review in the minutes before the trial. I even asked her to call one witness in my defense and it seems like my request was ignored without the benefit of thoughtful consideration.
Doris seems to be intelligent, articulate and capable. Maybe all of her best effort goes to bigger, better clients -- I don't know.
The irony is this: The low-key consultation that made me think that Ms. Sipes was the right choice for my case was more like an over-promised sales pitch because that's the only time she engaged me regarding the details of my case.
I'm very disappointed because I lost my case and I wonder how the results would have been different if Ms. Sipes had worked closer with me to present a better defense.
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09 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
He's had my case for a year & 3 months now, everytime i call i get a let me call you back (but never receive one), re tell me your case for the 100th time, or you call me for an update, but when i do im always told to call back no one is in the office, & if im lucky i can speak with him, but when i do i have to re explain the accident, or im told he's still trying to reach the insurance but no one has responded in over a year and 3 months time frame, so from my knowlege with the information thats given to me by him I've gotten no where & the 2 year frame is approching around the corner , & what i fear is nothing has been done for me financial, ive lost my car, my job and almost my place due to this accident.
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23 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I had a car accident in 2014 of .May I have been waiting a whole years and some months for just some information of course. I had to get my own paper work for one! He goes thru so many paralegals and they all seem to lie! And I have yet to get any information about my case which is very annoying! I would suggest him but if you use him use him on your own risk! Thanks!
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30 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I understand that she is using her mother's coat tail to establish her clients, but I was very disappointed that I could not get thru past the receptionist. I paid the consultation fee, only to find out what I already knew. Fees are extremely expensive. Comparing this to a really good pair of leather shoes. You know they are good, and will last a long time, but then you see the same pair with a label and you end up paying five times more. If you have the money upfront they will talk to you, but you might be stuck with a pair of over priced leather shoes that pinch more than just your pocket. I was ready to hire the team, but I could not talk to anybody without money. I wanted to pay another $1000, and even then I couldn't speak to anybody. I knew that I wasn't going to be guaranteed a win win case, but I needed answers to some of my painful needs. My desperate actions led me to a different attorney who did answer all my questions. I lost my $250.00 consulting fee.
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13 Dec, 2017 by Laura
hired this attorney because I was innocent and needed help. First off this attorney can not hear a THING! How's that going to work for you while you are at trial?? He is NOT a trial attorney, if you are willing to take a deal, then go for it. He is a big judge ASS kisser! He is afraid of the judge I had and made it clear! He lied to me about the "deal" I was offered, I found this out only after I hired a different attorney. If you want to go to trial forget this guy at all costs. Horrible experience!
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25 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Brown for a modification/enforcement case and had him on my case for ~2 yrs. The father in my case had been repeatedly and continuously breaking the court order and not allowing possession time with our son because he either 'forgot' or 'wanted to sleep in' or blah blah blah. During what was supposed to be a 2 day trial, Mr. Brown pressured me to settle and agree to terms that I was not comfortable with. He neglected to bring up very important evidence in my case that was submitted to the court during a discovery process (evidence that was against the opposing party) and seemed very disorganized during the trial fumbling through papers, taking very long periods of pause and appearing as if he had no clue what he was going to say next. In my opinion, he knew exactly what he was doing since he had 2 yrs to get to know my case and we prepared for the trial the entire weekend prior. There was submitted evidence of a car accident with my ~6 y/o child and his father on a holiday weekend night at ~1AM where he ran over the median onto incoming traffic lane and hit a boulder and his car was totaled-evidence that questioned possible drunk driving with our child. I was not notified of this car accident and father refused to allow medical treatment of our child despite paramedics advising him to and it was notated on the police report. Mr. Brown did not bring this incident to the attention of the judge and quickly changed the subject during questioning. I became highly suspicious of Mr. Brown's motives. In my opinion, he was not working for me. Mr. Brown also negatively impacted my case as he ignored my numerous emails re: my request for a motion for new trial and I was allowed a certain number of days before my case would not be able to be heard anymore. Well guess what? Mr. Brown waited until <1 week left for the deadline to end and he left me with no time to find other counsel and thus my case was no longer able to be heard in the court. Know why this happened? Because all the evidence submitted against opposing party would no longer be able to be brought up in subsequent motions/trials. The intent was to 'erase history' and erase the violations that the opposing party had committed. Mr. Brown's actions are unethical and immoral. I cannot possibly express my utmost disappointment in this attorney. So many red flags! In my opinion, he has also enabled an abuser to continue with the repetetive abusive and alienating tendencies. And who suffers? My innocent child.
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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.
