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05 Sep, 2024 by Jennifer jarrett
We worked with Rozanna and her team for several years and they were the perfect combination of professional, honest, knowledgable, kind, and understanding. They worked tirelessly to help us manage multiple issues within the family court system and we highly highly recommend them.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Juan j
This Attorney screwed up my Nephew from his employemejt law case adding more damage to his emotions and mental health just making things worse for my nephew were this experience just triggered things up. For this I’m here putting notice on this attorney with this rreview going by If I could give zero stars I would. My case was turned from very simple, to very complicated to run up charges to ridiculous amounts. Either the office doesn't know what they're doing, or are 100% full of deceit. Simple acts without your consent on making decision and shady hiding facts from information related to case such by simply fact kept you aware of court dates scheduled ended findings out afterwords that there was few court hearings and never was informed on court filing documents were turned into a fraud quitting on you settled taking a low offer when I been told but others representative that my case be worth more . steer clear unless you want to get ripped off
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03 Aug, 2024 by Natasha suh
I am new to the legal world, and desperately needed urgent help. And when I initially spoke with this firm, I felt confident in my decision in choosing Akhavan & Associates to represent me and my situation in a legal matter. There was great communication, thorough next steps, and they painted the picture of what would happen— which was comforting since I am new to this world. their communication was quick, and very responsive, and in the end we had a great outcome. I would definitely contact them again if I need help in the future as well. Thank you so much!
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05 Apr, 2024 by Shahram nafisi
Wonderful Secretory
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05 Mar, 2024 by Sahel alemansour
23 Jan, 2024 by Kaveh zinat
Every step of the way, alaleh was there with prompt responses, thorough explanations, and a reassuring smile. It felt less like I was working with a lawyer and more like I had a trusted friend guiding me through a tough time. She went above and beyond to make sure my case was handled with the utmost care and attention. The outcome was more than I could have hoped for!
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05 Apr, 2024 by Shahram nafisi
Wonderful Secretory
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05 Mar, 2024 by Sahel alemansour
23 Jan, 2024 by Kaveh zinat
Every step of the way, alaleh was there with prompt responses, thorough explanations, and a reassuring smile. It felt less like I was working with a lawyer and more like I had a trusted friend guiding me through a tough time. She went above and beyond to make sure my case was handled with the utmost care and attention. The outcome was more than I could have hoped for!
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05 Apr, 2024 by Shahram nafisi
Wonderful Secretory
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05 Mar, 2024 by Sahel alemansour
23 Jan, 2024 by Kaveh zinat
Every step of the way, alaleh was there with prompt responses, thorough explanations, and a reassuring smile. It felt less like I was working with a lawyer and more like I had a trusted friend guiding me through a tough time. She went above and beyond to make sure my case was handled with the utmost care and attention. The outcome was more than I could have hoped for!
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05 Apr, 2024 by Shahram nafisi
Wonderful Secretory
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05 Mar, 2024 by Sahel alemansour
23 Jan, 2024 by Kaveh zinat
Every step of the way, alaleh was there with prompt responses, thorough explanations, and a reassuring smile. It felt less like I was working with a lawyer and more like I had a trusted friend guiding me through a tough time. She went above and beyond to make sure my case was handled with the utmost care and attention. The outcome was more than I could have hoped for!
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05 Apr, 2024 by Shahram nafisi
Wonderful Secretory
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05 Mar, 2024 by Sahel alemansour
23 Jan, 2024 by Kaveh zinat
Every step of the way, alaleh was there with prompt responses, thorough explanations, and a reassuring smile. It felt less like I was working with a lawyer and more like I had a trusted friend guiding me through a tough time. She went above and beyond to make sure my case was handled with the utmost care and attention. The outcome was more than I could have hoped for!
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05 Apr, 2024 by Shahram nafisi
Wonderful Secretory
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05 Mar, 2024 by Sahel alemansour
23 Jan, 2024 by Kaveh zinat
Every step of the way, alaleh was there with prompt responses, thorough explanations, and a reassuring smile. It felt less like I was working with a lawyer and more like I had a trusted friend guiding me through a tough time. She went above and beyond to make sure my case was handled with the utmost care and attention. The outcome was more than I could have hoped for!
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05 Apr, 2024 by Shahram nafisi
Wonderful Secretory
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05 Mar, 2024 by Sahel alemansour
23 Jan, 2024 by Kaveh zinat
Every step of the way, alaleh was there with prompt responses, thorough explanations, and a reassuring smile. It felt less like I was working with a lawyer and more like I had a trusted friend guiding me through a tough time. She went above and beyond to make sure my case was handled with the utmost care and attention. The outcome was more than I could have hoped for!
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27 Dec, 2023 by Carolyn kramer
A five star rating and more for Fred Schwartz, is more than deserved. He handled my case in a calm, confident manner which included a compassionate concern for my well being. Fred investigated the accident in minute detail, gathered evidence and handled my claim negotiations. While it was a difficult path to physically move through this injury; I was surprised to experience an emotion healing when I received significant compensation for my pain and suffering. I am grateful, I had the BEST attorney in Fred Schwartz!
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05 Oct, 2023 by Farris sanders
Remember those attorneys that claimed they'll fight for you I had a case with them when it came time to they ran like Jack rabbits so a friend recorded Fred Swartz he was very thorough in how deal with the insurance company he my almost dead came and revived it for a substantial win reason Fred Swartz is so good is because he has years of experience working for the insurance companies after that I had another case he got me ten times what I expected let's face it with the way insurance companies operate you need an inside madman who how they operate and how to deal with them that inside man is Fred Swartz trust me you'll be very happy with the results
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18 May, 2023 by Ebony meadors
Absolutely the BEST attorney!!! I highly recommend using the Law Office of Frederick Schwartz for your legal needs, you will not be disappointed.
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27 Dec, 2023 by Carolyn kramer
A five star rating and more for Fred Schwartz, is more than deserved. He handled my case in a calm, confident manner which included a compassionate concern for my well being. Fred investigated the accident in minute detail, gathered evidence and handled my claim negotiations. While it was a difficult path to physically move through this injury; I was surprised to experience an emotion healing when I received significant compensation for my pain and suffering. I am grateful, I had the BEST attorney in Fred Schwartz!
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05 Oct, 2023 by Farris sanders
Remember those attorneys that claimed they'll fight for you I had a case with them when it came time to they ran like Jack rabbits so a friend recorded Fred Swartz he was very thorough in how deal with the insurance company he my almost dead came and revived it for a substantial win reason Fred Swartz is so good is because he has years of experience working for the insurance companies after that I had another case he got me ten times what I expected let's face it with the way insurance companies operate you need an inside madman who how they operate and how to deal with them that inside man is Fred Swartz trust me you'll be very happy with the results
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18 May, 2023 by Ebony meadors
Absolutely the BEST attorney!!! I highly recommend using the Law Office of Frederick Schwartz for your legal needs, you will not be disappointed.
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01 Sep, 2024 by American golden trucking
Michael is a very fair person, kind and friendly and knowledgeable. He cares about his clients. I had a case which no attorney was able to handle it because it was so complicated. Michael, not only accepted my case but he guided me thru all my aspects. His price for his service is so reasonable. I would definitely recommend him to everyone. God bless him.
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04 May, 2024 by Harut harutunian
He’s professional!!!
Trust him!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Nan m
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Michael across multiple cases in which he represented me. He is unmatched. He goes above and beyond for his clients, is a true professional and always delivers. He treats his clients with the utmost respect and kindness and is excellent with communication. He is the one you want in your corner to ensure everything is handled beautifully and he put his clients at ease while he does it. Can’t ask for a better lawyer.
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01 Sep, 2024 by American golden trucking
Michael is a very fair person, kind and friendly and knowledgeable. He cares about his clients. I had a case which no attorney was able to handle it because it was so complicated. Michael, not only accepted my case but he guided me thru all my aspects. His price for his service is so reasonable. I would definitely recommend him to everyone. God bless him.
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04 May, 2024 by Harut harutunian
He’s professional!!!
Trust him!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Nan m
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Michael across multiple cases in which he represented me. He is unmatched. He goes above and beyond for his clients, is a true professional and always delivers. He treats his clients with the utmost respect and kindness and is excellent with communication. He is the one you want in your corner to ensure everything is handled beautifully and he put his clients at ease while he does it. Can’t ask for a better lawyer.
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01 Sep, 2024 by American golden trucking
Michael is a very fair person, kind and friendly and knowledgeable. He cares about his clients. I had a case which no attorney was able to handle it because it was so complicated. Michael, not only accepted my case but he guided me thru all my aspects. His price for his service is so reasonable. I would definitely recommend him to everyone. God bless him.
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04 May, 2024 by Harut harutunian
He’s professional!!!
Trust him!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Nan m
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Michael across multiple cases in which he represented me. He is unmatched. He goes above and beyond for his clients, is a true professional and always delivers. He treats his clients with the utmost respect and kindness and is excellent with communication. He is the one you want in your corner to ensure everything is handled beautifully and he put his clients at ease while he does it. Can’t ask for a better lawyer.
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01 Sep, 2024 by American golden trucking
Michael is a very fair person, kind and friendly and knowledgeable. He cares about his clients. I had a case which no attorney was able to handle it because it was so complicated. Michael, not only accepted my case but he guided me thru all my aspects. His price for his service is so reasonable. I would definitely recommend him to everyone. God bless him.
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04 May, 2024 by Harut harutunian
He’s professional!!!
Trust him!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Nan m
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Michael across multiple cases in which he represented me. He is unmatched. He goes above and beyond for his clients, is a true professional and always delivers. He treats his clients with the utmost respect and kindness and is excellent with communication. He is the one you want in your corner to ensure everything is handled beautifully and he put his clients at ease while he does it. Can’t ask for a better lawyer.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Manton channel
This firm was recommended from a co worker and they did amazing job about my case of my motorcycle accident I had and pursue the other party to pay for the damages and we won and I was a awarded a hefty sum of money. They are the best attorneys I had ever been with and would definitely hire them again in the future. Ashley, you were the best to keep in touch with me about my case!
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22 May, 2024 by Nora deleon
26 Mar, 2024 by Alex arana c.
Arman ! The best !! Definitely recommend them :)
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13 Oct, 2024 by José toledo
Buenísimos bufet de abogados atendieron a mi llamada cuando yo mas desesperada estaba gracias a la atención al cliente se los recomiendo a todos las personas que ocupan de algún abogado en algún caso en el estado de California trabajan. Con honestidad y transparencia.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Amarjargal chuluun
01 Oct, 2024 by Donald hannoun
I used Root Law Group to create my corporation. I have never been through such a seamless process. Very prompt, clear, communication, as efficient as it gets. I will definitely be using their services in the future and recommend them fully without reservation
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13 Oct, 2024 by José toledo
Buenísimos bufet de abogados atendieron a mi llamada cuando yo mas desesperada estaba gracias a la atención al cliente se los recomiendo a todos las personas que ocupan de algún abogado en algún caso en el estado de California trabajan. Con honestidad y transparencia.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Amarjargal chuluun
01 Oct, 2024 by Donald hannoun
I used Root Law Group to create my corporation. I have never been through such a seamless process. Very prompt, clear, communication, as efficient as it gets. I will definitely be using their services in the future and recommend them fully without reservation
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13 Oct, 2024 by José toledo
Buenísimos bufet de abogados atendieron a mi llamada cuando yo mas desesperada estaba gracias a la atención al cliente se los recomiendo a todos las personas que ocupan de algún abogado en algún caso en el estado de California trabajan. Con honestidad y transparencia.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Msdymmples batson
Working with The V&A Law Firm was an ok experience. It was so difficult to talk to anyone when calling about my case. I called several times and left messages with no return call. When the case was finally closed, they were more proactive in getting my funds to me. It didn’t start out to well, but they did come through in the end.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Precious bois
Team was compassionate. They have easy methods of communication and user-friendly systems for uploading documents. Simple explanations of the legal process and well defined outline of next steps. Overall, great representation. Would recommend. Thank you Maylin and everyone else!
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13 Oct, 2024 by José toledo
Buenísimos bufet de abogados atendieron a mi llamada cuando yo mas desesperada estaba gracias a la atención al cliente se los recomiendo a todos las personas que ocupan de algún abogado en algún caso en el estado de California trabajan. Con honestidad y transparencia.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Msdymmples batson
Working with The V&A Law Firm was an ok experience. It was so difficult to talk to anyone when calling about my case. I called several times and left messages with no return call. When the case was finally closed, they were more proactive in getting my funds to me. It didn’t start out to well, but they did come through in the end.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Precious bois
Team was compassionate. They have easy methods of communication and user-friendly systems for uploading documents. Simple explanations of the legal process and well defined outline of next steps. Overall, great representation. Would recommend. Thank you Maylin and everyone else!
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10 Sep, 2023 by Lambdamu 37
25 Jul, 2023 by Elizabeth
19 Dec, 2021 by Sam s
Defense, offense, no need to be on the fense here!
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05 Nov, 2016 by Lili
I had a tainted contact lens that left me legally blind in one eye (3 months later I regained most of vision, thankfully.)
I called numerous attorneys and none would take such a "Risky case" with tricky insurance issues, as well.
Thank goodness I found Ms Vahdat (Amy). Amy accepted my case, addressed the insurance issue and settled my "Risky" case, in a timely manner with a far larger settlement than I expected.
Along with her phenomenal "hard" skills, (i.e., above) Ms Vahdat displays "soft" skills. She is honest, compassionate, listens exceptionally well, returns calls prompty and authentically cares about her clients.
She is young (in age not experience) and pretty. I assumed she was a junior associate attorney even I had her business card that revealed she owns the firm.
My only complaint is that she doesn't handle *all* legal problems in *all* states. That is impossible, though.
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25 Apr, 2016 by Sofie
Ms. Vahdat is a very hard working attorney. She made me feel very comfortable in her office and made me feel like a human being once again after suffering serious injuries in my car accident. Ms. Vahdat and her staff went above and beyond to ensure I was always kept up to date with my case, the applicable law, and everything that was going on with my case. I was advised every step of the way of how the law works. Overall Ms. Vahdat made me comfortable during this entire ordeal. She definitely has very high standards and ethics. When you meet Amy, her approach and tone of voice makes you instantly feel comfortable. This is especially important when you have suffered a traumatic injury like I did. I admire Ms. Vahdat for her work and ethics.
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19 Apr, 2016 by Rachel
I was severely injured when my contractor failed to properly install the cabinets in my kitchen almost 4 years ago. Another attorney was handling my case against Sears. After almost 3 years that attorney could not get anywhere with my case that he he filed suit on. I took my case took Amy. She moved my trial date to a later date in hopes of settling the case with another mediator. She was able to settle my case, negotiate all of my medical liens and still make sure I got a good settlement figure in my pocket!!! She is amazing, caring and attentive. She did magic when another attorney (who is much older than her!!) could not!
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15 Mar, 2024 by Marcy johnson
I really wish I had not used this firm! It’s been over a year since my accident, going on 2 years but the insurance has paid and all the bills have been paid! The lady that answers the phone doesn’t have any kind of true customer satisfaction skills at all! She told me my claim is complete but then says that it takes time to make sure all is paid! There should not be a complete ID there’s still bills to pay!
And my case manager is so non informational during this process! When I ask about my settlement I’m told that billing delivers checks 2-3 times a month and there’s been no deliveries this month! WOW! Wonder why this is?
There are so many other injury firms, choose one of them not this one, you’ll be disappointed!
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09 Oct, 2020 by Carlos h
just picked up my check today and I am more than satisfied. I was involved in a rear end accident about 6 months ago. The damage on my car wasn't major. Sterin law provided exceptional service from start to finish. The case managers were on top of my case and they always answered my questions. They didn't make me feel like I was annoying them every time I called. I had a lot of questions because I didn't know how the legal process works but it felt like I was in good hands along the way. The settlement number was more than I expected and I appreciated that Mr sterin gave me options in regards to accepting my settlement or going through with litigation against the person who hit me. To say the least this was a pleasant experience and not something I expected when dealing with lawyers.
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17 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
I retained Mr Sterin for a car accident 6 months ago, very professional service and great and friendly staff. Mr Sterin was always very responsive and personally got back to me and answered each question I had. I was very happy with my settlement, a lot more than I expected: I would definetly recommend this office to my friends and will use this lawyer again.
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20 Dec, 2016 by Alex
This attorney, has been the best thing had happened to me! I've been in accidents before and soe attorneys promise things and never do what they tell you they would do. ! Maria explained everything and her team was very helpful updating me with my case and fighting even when insurance made it very difficult. Maria got me to a great dr. and had her representative Jeff also providing me with rentals and uber rides to get to the dr when needed and did not pay a cent out of pocket. my experience was grwat and I would recommend this attorney for any needs you encounter.
A. Lopez
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08 Dec, 2016 by Nicole
I was a little skeptical with all the bad reviews but I had to see for myself because my friend spoke highly of her. I set up a meeting with the attorney and she explained everything to me and has been by my side every step of the way. Honestly this was my first accident in 30 yrs I didn't know what to do or where to go. They helped me get my car repaired and my doctor for my therapy's was so sweet, I enjoined visiting her office. I got updates constantly. I was happy with my settlement and I can't thank her enough for what shes done for me, from being lost and confused shes helped me and guided me. Thank you Maria for your professionalism and your staff that's been nothing but helpful.
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07 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
This was my 2nd time being in accident I got referred to Maria primushko by friend because my first attorney never followed up so I had a bad experience so knew what to not expect but this attorney and secretaries followed up with me if not by phone vm emails all the time made me feel like a client helped me with list of use because my car got totaled help fight for my cars value and send me to a great dr who made me recover from my injuries I got from the accident thank you guys
Your the best #1
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10 Sep, 2024 by Dejanai camacho
So grateful find and have been accepted by this law firm. The entire process from intake to payout was about a year and the entire staff was professional and empathetic. Brian Virag started to contact me later in the process and throughly explained the pros and cons of waiting for trial versus settling early so we were so confident in our decision. I can’t thank this office enough for their diligence in solving our case. Best of luck to anyone who utilizes this law firm, please know you’re in the best hands possible.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Pv 222
I had a very disappointing experience with this law firm specifically Julie Valdiva. I had to call three time to just confirm whether they received my documents. when I finally managed to speak with the research assistant, she was extremely condescending .. not exactly how you want to establish client/attorney relationship going forward, big waste of my time during an already stressful situation.
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11 Nov, 2023 by Eliseo gonsalez
Muy profesional todo el equipo
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10 Sep, 2024 by Dejanai camacho
So grateful find and have been accepted by this law firm. The entire process from intake to payout was about a year and the entire staff was professional and empathetic. Brian Virag started to contact me later in the process and throughly explained the pros and cons of waiting for trial versus settling early so we were so confident in our decision. I can’t thank this office enough for their diligence in solving our case. Best of luck to anyone who utilizes this law firm, please know you’re in the best hands possible.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Pv 222
I had a very disappointing experience with this law firm specifically Julie Valdiva. I had to call three time to just confirm whether they received my documents. when I finally managed to speak with the research assistant, she was extremely condescending .. not exactly how you want to establish client/attorney relationship going forward, big waste of my time during an already stressful situation.
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11 Nov, 2023 by Eliseo gonsalez
Muy profesional todo el equipo
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27 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
remembers nothing, knows nothing, you ask a question, you look at the answer on the Internet with the client. After receiving the full amount of money, lawyer Marina Cab does not communicate with you, only through the secretary all questions. There are a lot of mistakes in the case, I corrected everything myself, negligence, errors in the dates in the names, until you pay, she guarantees the win of the case, but by paying her money the lawyer is not involved in the case.
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30 Apr, 2013 by Nataliya k
I have been consulting Kevin Park since November 2012. He informed me that I had a medical malpractice case and that he would take it on once I obtain an expert report. (I am based in the UK). I spent a fortune on expert opinion; e-mailed him the report and Kevin Park informed me that next step is to sign a written retainer agreement. Then I had to chase him up and he later informed he would not take on the case; 2 months before my limitation period expires. How professional and responsible of him! I guess he never had any intention to take it on; for him it was just a bit of an e-mail chat
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Do for You
A personal injury lawyer specializes in helping individuals who have been physically or emotionally injured due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another party. Whether you've been hurt in a car accident, suffered a slip and fall, or experienced medical malpractice, a personal injury attorney works to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. They can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses.
Personal injury lawyers act as your advocate, navigating the legal system on your behalf and dealing with insurance companies to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. They understand how to handle complex legal matters and help you avoid common pitfalls.
When Should I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Hiring a personal injury lawyer can be beneficial in many situations where you've been harmed due to another's negligence. Some key scenarios include:
- Severe injuries: If you've suffered significant or permanent injuries that result in substantial medical bills, a lawyer can help ensure you are fairly compensated.
- Long-term or permanent disability: Injuries that affect your ability to work or require ongoing medical treatment are complex, and a lawyer can help estimate long-term damages.
- Disputed liability: If the responsible party or their insurance company denies liability for your injury, a lawyer can gather evidence and advocate on your behalf.
- Insurance company lowball offers: Insurers often try to settle personal injury claims for as little as possible. A lawyer can negotiate to get you a fair settlement.
- Medical malpractice claims: Injuries caused by a doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider due to negligence require a personal injury lawyer experienced in medical malpractice law.
- Exposure to hazardous substances: If you've been injured due to exposure to toxins, chemicals, or dangerous substances, a lawyer can help pursue legal action.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process is crucial, especially if you're unsure of the full extent of your injuries or damages.
What Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Do?
A personal injury lawyer provides a wide range of services to guide you through the legal process and maximize your compensation. They can:
- Evaluate your case: A lawyer will assess the strength of your claim and determine whether you have a viable case.
- Investigate the incident: Gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions is key to building a strong case.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: Lawyers handle communications with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement and aren't taken advantage of.
- File a lawsuit if necessary: If a fair settlement can't be reached, the lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court.
- Help calculate damages: This includes medical expenses, lost wages, future medical needs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
- Prepare and file legal documents: Lawyers handle all the paperwork and deadlines associated with your case, including filing motions and discovery requests.
- Represent you at trial: If your case goes to trial, the lawyer will argue your case before a judge and jury to obtain the compensation you deserve.
How Are Personal Injury Lawyers Paid?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win your case, either through settlement or a court judgment. Here’s how it works:
- Contingency fee percentage: The lawyer will take a percentage of the settlement or award, typically between 25% and 40%, depending on the complexity of the case and the stage at which it's resolved.
- Costs and expenses: In addition to the contingency fee, the lawyer may deduct other costs associated with the case, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, and court costs. These expenses are often advanced by the lawyer and repaid out of the settlement.
- No upfront payment: Since the lawyer’s fee is contingent on winning, you usually don’t pay anything upfront.
Always discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during your consultation to avoid surprises.
How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer depends on the specifics of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure. However, since most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, the amount you pay will depend on the outcome of your case. Here are some general guidelines:
- Contingency fees: Typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or award. The percentage may increase if the case goes to trial or requires an appeal.
- Other costs: In addition to the lawyer's fee, you may be responsible for case-related expenses such as expert witness fees, medical record retrieval fees, and court costs. These are often deducted from your settlement, so you won't have to pay out of pocket.
While the cost may seem high, hiring an experienced lawyer can significantly increase the amount you recover, making it a worthwhile investment.
Top Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer
Before hiring a personal injury lawyer, it's essential to ask questions to ensure you’re choosing the right representation. Here are some important questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with personal injury cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has handled cases involving similar injuries or accidents. -
What is your fee structure?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and what percentage they will take from any settlement or award. -
How long will my case take?
While it's hard to predict, a lawyer can give you an estimate based on similar cases they’ve handled. -
How often do you take cases to trial?
Some lawyers prefer to settle quickly, while others are more comfortable going to court if necessary. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior lawyers or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it's important to know who will be managing your claim. -
Do you have references from past clients?
Speaking with past clients can provide valuable insight into the lawyer’s effectiveness and professionalism.
How to Check the Credibility of a Personal Injury Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a credible personal injury lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any history of disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, and Google reviews can provide insight into the lawyer's reputation and client satisfaction.
- Look at their track record: Review their experience with personal injury cases, particularly how many cases they’ve successfully resolved or taken to trial.
- Ask for references: Credible lawyers should be willing to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their work.
- Check professional memberships: Lawyers who are members of respected organizations, like the American Association for Justice (AAJ), often have a solid reputation in the field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first meeting with a personal injury lawyer, prepare the following:
- Detailed account of the accident: Write down everything you remember about the incident, including dates, times, and locations. Include any witnesses or police reports if available.
- Medical records and bills: Bring any documentation of your injuries, treatments, and associated medical costs.
- Insurance information: Provide your insurance details and any communication you’ve had with the other party’s insurance company.
- Employment and income records: If your injury has impacted your ability to work, bring proof of lost wages or reduced earning capacity.
- Photos or videos: If you have photos of the accident scene, your injuries, or property damage, bring them to your consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions to ask, including how the lawyer will handle your case and what you can expect in terms of timeline and outcome.
By preparing thoroughly for your first consultation, you’ll help the lawyer understand your case more quickly and get a better sense of your legal options.
