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08 Jul, 2024 by Ultimatetoastyboy
08 Jul, 2024 by Jared poiry
08 Jul, 2024 by Mania mass
Great listener
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21 Aug, 2024 by Kyle
I was in county jail thinking I was going to be stuck there for a long time. I hired Mathew Chapel and he got me out of jail and in track to get my life back together. I recommend his work to anyone in need. He is a veteran and knows the law.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Laura
No one wants to ever need a defense attorney, but it happens. When my stepson found himself in serious trouble, I called Matt. He was able to secure him the best outcome possible. He knows the law and your rights. I can't recommend him enough.
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16 Jan, 2024 by Chad and jennifer
Matt chapel defended our son on a criminal case. He worked harder and more hours than I would have expected any attorney to work and by that I mean nights weekends sometimes I almost believe around the clock. He is very caring and kind He made us feel like family. He also builds a defence team specific to the case . This man only has a 5 star rating but he deserves a 10 star rating and he will always be considered family to us thank you mathew chapel for everything
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02 Mar, 2021 by Joe
I hired Nick for a custody case when the mother of my child moved out of state and tried to register a foreign order. I needed someone really good so I called a very renowned and retired lawyer in the area (since I’m out of state) and asked who the best lawyer for family / custody issues. He said Nick, no question. He’s experienced, hungry, and honest. I have now had Nick representing me off and on for the past 5 years and because my situation happens to involve parental alienation and complicated matters, we continue to litigate and there’s no one I’d rather have on my side. In this course of time my child’s mother has hired 4 different attorneys as none of them have faired well against Nick (it also doesn’t help she has always been on the wrong side of the law). If you hire Nick he will listen, thoroughly research the facts and precedent, and give you your best chance at relief in your case. There is nothing like the piece of mind having great and honest representation. I’ve seen so many lawyers argue a case that they weren’t prepared on, had wrongs facts, can’t remember the characters names, and just fail to make their case and aren’t taken seriously. Trust me, call Nick.
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15 Apr, 2020 by Courtney
I hired Nick Hursh to represent me in a Family Law case that was out of the realm of norm. No child should have to go through a court experience siting on the opposite side a parent instead of having them on your side; as a supportive parent should be. Since my situation crossed normal lines; I chose Nick based on his schooling/professional experience and online reviews. My hopes he would match for my needs but quickly those "hopes" have been proven as fact. He drafts his own court paperwork and is extremely detail oriented. He handled the timing of my payments for his fees, in a compassionate understanding way considering that I am a Single Mother and we are all currently in the CONVID-19 Pandemic.
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08 Dec, 2018 by Nikki
Nick was really good in fighting for me and the R.O. made on me by my bfs EX. My bf is going through a nasty divorce and of course she's doing the typical "reaching" as I like to call it. Being that all of allegations made on me were so far fetched and outlandish, I had PROOF against all the allegations made, which we did NOT even have to present any of this proof. Basically saying she had no legit reason for request, and Nick was able to show there was no basis for any of her claims, which were 100% falsified. He knows his stuff, he goes in ready to fight for you, and wins. He will remind you to stay calm and keep your poker face straight, which I really respected and loved his tactic. Hopefully I will not have to use any attorney ever, but if I was in need he will be my go to. I highly recommend him.
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19 Nov, 2017 by Makaylah
David is an amazing lawyer! We hired David in May, told him we wanted my husband to adopt my daughter, and we needed a passport by December. By November we had our passport and the adoption was final! We had to jump through many hoops and he still made sure we got what we needed on time. He kept us updateded throughout the whole journey and made sure we knew and understood everything he said or was doing! I highly recommend David!
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20 Jul, 2017 by Jessica
DuPont Hospital sued me regarding the bill of delivering of my son. I had proof that it was settled and yet they pushed forward with a trial to prove I was guilty of nonpayment. I asked David to represent me against this enormous company. He quickly reviewed my file and assured me we had a case. During and before the trial he worked hard to ease my fears and nerves. We won!!! He did a wonderful job and I cannot thank him enough!
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01 Sep, 2015 by Ricky
David helped me get better visitation with my daughter. He does a fantastic job getting you what you want. He also returns your calls asap and keeps you well informed on what's going on! I highly recommend him!
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14 Aug, 2015 by Joseph
David L. Farnbauch Is great at what he dose. He came to a hospital when I asked him to represent me and my wife . He informed me on many things that was happening and what was to come. He worked hard for me and did a above the line expectation of a job. So if your looking for a great lawyer someone who will fight for you and knows how to get the job done then David L. Farnbauch and his wonderful team are the team for you !
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16 Mar, 2015 by Jason
I literally had the best possible experience with a lawyer one could ever hope for or ask for in dealing with Mr Farnbauch. His honesty and candor were incredible. Most of us are conditioned to think "lawyers = money-hungry crooks" based on previous experiences with them and society's view of them by-and-large. David is the polar opposite of this philosophy/view! Without getting into the specifics of my case, he gave me advice that benefitted ME, not him. All his dealings with me and advice through my case was for my benefit and not his. He very clearly approached my case in a way that maximized my standing above all else, and was less concerned with getting money from me than he was concerned with making sure I came out of my case in the best possible way. In short, I highly highly recommend Dave as an attorney. He restored my faith in the legal profession and humanity in general to be honest!
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25 Feb, 2015 by Tom
David Farnbauch represented us after my wife had a serious head injury. It has been a very difficult time for my family. We found David to be knowledgeable about the legal process and good at educating us as to what to expect. He was compassionate and supportive throughout this difficult time. We will be forever grateful to David Farnbauch and the Sweeney Law Firm.
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08 Jul, 2024 by J b
Mr. Burkhardt was helpful and caring about my situation! Thank you!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dave grant
Joshua Burkhardt is honest, knowledgable, kind, trustworthy, and is good at what he does. He provides guidance for our company and I wouldn't want to go anywhere else.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Karley dobis
04 Jan, 2020 by Mrs. porter
This firm truly cares about the client and family very supportive compassionate and professional also they got us a great settlement we will always be truly grateful to Mr.Brown and his staff for being by our side at that horrible time in our lives they made the transition not so difficult I will HIGHLY recommend this Mr. Brown
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24 Jun, 2015 by Shane
Effective - Dennis is an experienced lawyer in the area of personal injury and medical malpractice who has proven to be an effective advocate for his clients. Responsive - Dennis and his staff are sure to respond promptly to client inquiries and requests. Professional - even during the most difficult situation, Dennis displays composure and professionalism bringing a sense of dignity and respect to the process. Highly recommended.
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23 Jun, 2015 by Ron
We all know lawyers can be expensive, and 90% of the time it is WELL worth it. Dennis spoke very professionally and was very informative at all times. He did explained our game plan and angle we were taking in court plus explained why so I felt like I was a part of the team. The comfort level alone was well worth it to watch him execute his plan in court just as he described, while I knew why he was asking the question and achieving exactly the results I needed to win the case. I have informed ALL my friends and family to use Dennis if it's within his expertise. Dennis will let you know immediately if he is or is not qualified or even comfortable with looking into the case you may have. I called him about another possible legal matter in which he referred me to another lawyer that could handle my case better since it was the other lawyers specialty. Dennis will always be my first call and should be yours also!
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11 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Rakes was diligent with my case. She was excellent about communicating with me about what was going to happen, and preparing me at ever step of the journey. She went beyond just being good at her job - she is a kind person. I felt that she truly cared for me to have the best outcome possible, and worked to pursue a win for my case. I wholeheartedly recommend her.
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30 Apr, 2019 by Donald
I have tried to quiet a title for several years. I had consulted with many attorneys and they acted as if the matter did not need legal attention. I was lucky enough to consult with Katherine Rakes, she immediately recognized my concerns and took legal action. In the proccess of this civil action it suddenly turned into a criminal matter. Ms. Rakes had foreseen this possibility and was prepared. I have recommended her to friends and family, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to you.
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13 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Dana is very down to earth, kind and a all around wonder lawyer! I highly recommend her!
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22 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I was a client of Lindsey's a few years ago. She handled a traffic ticket for me and did an excellent job. The process was efficient and handled by Lindsey with no hassle. I would highly recommend Lindsey as an attorney to all of my friends and family.
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23 May, 2013 by Jeremy
Mr. Benson did a great job representing me. He was always responsive, very knowledeable, and would shoot it to me straight every time.
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08 Mar, 2021 by Ellen
Ryan is one in a million! I hired him based on his awesome reviews. I’m so thankful for the decision I made on having Ryan represent me. With COVID my case had been delayed for a year. He really seemed like he cared about me and my future. I never had to wait long for him to return my calls or text. So a year had passed and charges were pressed on me. In a panic I called Ryan on a Friday night and he got right back to me even though he was out to dinner with his family. I honestly didn’t expect to hear from him until Monday. Keep in mind I paid him over a year ago. My whole job, life and kids were on the line! Ryan literally saved me! He went above and beyond and my outcome was better than I anticipated! I will always be grateful for what Ryan has done for me! I have my life back and my future is looking good for my family and I. I wanted to write this review in the hopes to help someone else and to thank Ryan for all he has done for me!
Thank you Ryan!!!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Sandra
Chad and his team kept me up to date on all progress. They were great to work with.
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16 Sep, 2024 by J j
I really highly recommend Chad Delventhal as an attorney. He is so friendly and polite, but as a client he is there to look out for your best interests, and fight for you! He clearly explains things to you and what to expect, and listens well to you. He made the process very simple and I am glad to have worked with him! I also want to say that his office staff is so responsive and helpful too.
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15 Sep, 2024 by Demetrios
Great team. Very nice people. Helped me through a very rough time.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Ladonna woods
A very good and caring attorney that will help keep you informed about your case and wil fight for you
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28 Nov, 2023 by Alexis baker
A woman that will hands down do what it takes to make sure you are taken care of!!! She is the best! Knowledge, strength, willingness to help, and grit are just a few words to describe her. She truly goes above and beyond to help your case. I am very thankful for choosing Jen!!!! 🩶
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14 Nov, 2023 by Camara hill
Jennifer was great! Awesome communication. Willing to get the job done by any means, highly recommended!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Larry long
08 Jul, 2024 by Mark kline
08 Jul, 2024 by Alexander milentis
I had a great experience using Mr. Jarjour as my divorce attorney. I had filled out my name and number online to have him call me regarding my situation and within a couple hours he reached out to me and already had information pulled up from my case that he looked up. I was very impressed from the start. Sam is very thorough and straightforward but also very personable. He seemed to always put my best interest first while trying to get the case settled as soon as possible to reduce costs etc.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Tyler west
Absolute professionals in every way. Very helpful and friendly staff.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Kate light
Truitt is very caring, and great at what they do!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Heather rooney
Phil and his team were super professional and prompt when helping a family member with their injury claim. I highly recommend this team of individuals who come together to make things right for you!
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16 Sep, 2024 by J j
I really highly recommend Chad Delventhal as an attorney. He is so friendly and polite, but as a client he is there to look out for your best interests, and fight for you! He clearly explains things to you and what to expect, and listens well to you. He made the process very simple and I am glad to have worked with him! I also want to say that his office staff is so responsive and helpful too.
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15 Sep, 2024 by Demetrios
Great team. Very nice people. Helped me through a very rough time.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Nick bishop
09 Sep, 2024 by Isaac nelson
Got robbed basically these guys only want their cut
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02 Sep, 2024 by H r
Tom Blackburn took care of us every step of the way. He & his team went above & beyond our expectations!
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02 Sep, 2024 by Jessica aguilar
I was in a car accident back in December 22’. The other driver and her insurance did not want to take responsibility. Chris and Ashley both worked very hard and stood firm with what they believed I deserved and updated me through texts and calls. They were very open and honest with me and explained everything to a T. Would absolutely choose them again if I ever came across the situation again. 10/10!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Isaac nelson
Got robbed basically these guys only want their cut
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02 Sep, 2024 by H r
Tom Blackburn took care of us every step of the way. He & his team went above & beyond our expectations!
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02 Sep, 2024 by Jessica aguilar
I was in a car accident back in December 22’. The other driver and her insurance did not want to take responsibility. Chris and Ashley both worked very hard and stood firm with what they believed I deserved and updated me through texts and calls. They were very open and honest with me and explained everything to a T. Would absolutely choose them again if I ever came across the situation again. 10/10!
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5.0
7 Reviews
4.8
127 Reviews
18 Jul, 2024 by Erin schoeff
Robert Boughter did an amazing job, Could not have asked for better representation! 10 out of 10 recommend!! Fast, friendly and willing to work for his Client.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Brittni troxel
Kenny was an amazing attorney to work with. Summer 2023 our young son was involved in an accident. We had met Kenny through a mutual friend and immediately following the accident we were advised to seek legal assistance. We immediately contacted Kenny. He brought my spouse and I into his office and talked us through the process. I knew right away, I could not get through the process emotional and mentally without his guidance. Kenny and his assistant Beverly talked us through each step. I suffer from
Anxiety and it was increased from the accident, Kenny would take time and repeat what to expect. He was so patient with me and was so polite to repeat information he had shared already. . He gave great advice through the whole process. We are thankful for his assistance through the whole process. I hope I never need another accident attorney but if I do, I will immediately call Kenny. I will suggest Kenny to all my friends and relatives.
Thank you Kenny for your dedication and always asking how the little guy was doing.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Nichole scott
They help me with two of my cases got me back top dollar for me and my son I would recommend them to anybody. I really love this company. Thank you for your help.
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07 Nov, 2022 by Mel
My case was forgotten for many months in the office. Waster of retainers for emails with no single court hearing!
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25 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Rex listened to all issues and paid attention to details to ensure I was represented to his full potential in court. I am very pleased with the outcome from my case.
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23 Nov, 2020 by David
Mr. Patterson has been my lawyer since the middle of this year, and he has been on top of all my legal needs. He has been very professional in dealing with the opposing side and counsel and been extremely efficient in getting accomplished what we set out to, step by step. Two of those examples that stick out to me are 1. Creating an environment conducive of making my ex fiancée move out of my house without incident and without having to file an eviction. And 2. He also was successful in the retrieval of my ex’s very expensive engagement ring, which her side had been unwilling to give back.
He has been with me and had a plan since day 1, and his professional staff has always been there to answer my questions and give timely updates about where we are at in the process. We have had a lot of crud thrown our way, but Mr. Patterson has handled all the turns in the litigation with ease and made me feel comfortable that I am in good hands through the entire process. Not only that, but he always has been more than efficient with his time and charged very minimal to me for the hours he has put into the case. He is a reasonable attorney and will give you a fair shake and honest answer.
The suit will continue into 2021, as we are set for further trial aspects, such as mediation and further, but even without a known outcome on this matter, I am very much happy with my choice in counsel and would very much recommend him to anyone who might need some consultation with their legal matters. He is truly one of the best, in my honest opinion.
David, Rex Patterson’s client since June 2020
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24 Oct, 2024 by Jessica snider
Phone connection always sucks, making payments are god awful to make. The front desk can never get it right and you spend 10 minutes repeating yourself because it's constant static. So annoyed
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22 Jul, 2024 by Tanya pickett
Nick is an excellent attorney who skillfully guided me through a very challenging case. His preparation for trial and his professionalism are second to none. I appreciate all he did to bring the case to a close with a positive outcome for myself.
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21 Jul, 2024 by Nick herrold
He’s your guy for all things traffic related. He got my 15 over ticket reduced to 5 over.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Holynootnoot
Felt bad he has a lot of 1 stars so I gave him 5 stars
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03 Oct, 2023 by Jayne joseph
Mr. Spreen yes is a very busy man. However, he got me cleared of 20 charges. Just he also is a free county attorney so it's a lot of cases js
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14 Aug, 2019 by Jennifer kay
Mitch is a great guy, very busy and hard to connect with though. He covers 2 counties, and is the only public defender in wells county.
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08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
19 Jun, 2024 by Tamara henman
17 May, 2024 by Jarred omlor
Was in communication with them for setting up a payment plan to resolve the issue. Offered to back pay from the last phone conversation, but in return I asked for some kind of documentation stating the agreement of the terms.... after asking for documentation the automatically denied a payment plan. I'm glad you have a fast response to your Google review. But not to clients.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Cody lindsay
If you're ever in a spot of trouble and need an attorney to represent you, I highly recommend Bart Arnold. Bart is straightforward and will do everything within his power to ensure his clients get what they need. With that though is doing your part as his client and communicating with him to keep him in the know with any and all information you can provide him. Bart will go above and beyond to secure the best outcome possible and while everyone wants something, as he mentioned to me, that may not always be the case but he will get you what you need.
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08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by D
So I have to say this. Bart keeps his word and he’s honestly turned into a lawyer that I feel like is about as smooth as it gets. He is timely and in my opinion top tier as a lawyer and as a person. He’s given me advice before. And just today got my license back for me. To put this into perspective the judge told me I’ve had 48 yes FOURTY EIGHT suspensions And I’m on a habitual 10 year ban. He got it back with pretty much no conditions. Truly a miracle. One thing I like the most about Bart is that he just tells you like it is. I’ve been in some hot water before and he’s let me know that. But he always is right there in the trenches with you. Always keeping you informed. He doesn’t leave you hanging, you know the feeling being in the jumpsuit, sitting handcuffed in the seats looking around for your lawyer and not seeing him? Bart is always there! Every letter or receipt from him I always got next day. His office keeps you in the loop almost even too much. And anybody thinking this review is just so good that it has to be made up. My name is Dalton Ray. Do your own research. Bart is the man! If I sound excited it’s because I was told I wouldn’t even have the option to maybe drive again until I’d be 36 years old. And just got it back a couple weeks after hiring him. And honestly I’m grateful. The fees alone he got waived for me were substantially higher than what I even paid to hire him.
Highly recommend
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shannon mantica
08 Jul, 2024 by Kaler haynes
08 Jul, 2024 by Desiree winters
The office assistants are nice and friendly, known nothing about all the lawyers here but I hired Mark Thoma in 2020, after the conclusion of my case which was March this year. I have been calling and calling, leaving message after message and as of today no call back. Since the first day of hire I've been doomed because he was not worth the hire "NOT ENOUGH PRESSURE APPLIED" I regret wasting my time and money with this firm. If you are looking for full representation from start to finish, alone with the charge reduction this is not the best route. I would have done better getting a lawyer still training in school. So now I only have a few options let me see where they can get me.
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08 Jul, 2024 by G
Called and was in the middle of describing our need for a visitation agreement, the person who answered the phone was very rude interrupted me midstream told me she’d be right back clicked over while I was still talking. If that’s the way it starts how the heck is it going to end? I hung up the phone and moved on. Person answering the phone should get a few pointers on courtesy to customers.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ghgne5
I have known Nick Wallace for many years. He is very intelligent, a hard worker and very caring. He is one of the most ethical and honest people I know. I would recommend him to anyone with legal troubles.
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08 Jul, 2024 by William faulkner
08 Jul, 2024 by Cyi makemoney
Randy Hammond screwed me over when I was in desperate need of a criminal and family attorney in June 2017. Never signed an agreement and happily took my money. Stay away.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shanna jenkins
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Do for You
A personal injury lawyer specializes in helping individuals who have been physically or emotionally injured due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another party. Whether you've been hurt in a car accident, suffered a slip and fall, or experienced medical malpractice, a personal injury attorney works to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. They can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses.
Personal injury lawyers act as your advocate, navigating the legal system on your behalf and dealing with insurance companies to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. They understand how to handle complex legal matters and help you avoid common pitfalls.
When Should I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Hiring a personal injury lawyer can be beneficial in many situations where you've been harmed due to another's negligence. Some key scenarios include:
- Severe injuries: If you've suffered significant or permanent injuries that result in substantial medical bills, a lawyer can help ensure you are fairly compensated.
- Long-term or permanent disability: Injuries that affect your ability to work or require ongoing medical treatment are complex, and a lawyer can help estimate long-term damages.
- Disputed liability: If the responsible party or their insurance company denies liability for your injury, a lawyer can gather evidence and advocate on your behalf.
- Insurance company lowball offers: Insurers often try to settle personal injury claims for as little as possible. A lawyer can negotiate to get you a fair settlement.
- Medical malpractice claims: Injuries caused by a doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider due to negligence require a personal injury lawyer experienced in medical malpractice law.
- Exposure to hazardous substances: If you've been injured due to exposure to toxins, chemicals, or dangerous substances, a lawyer can help pursue legal action.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process is crucial, especially if you're unsure of the full extent of your injuries or damages.
What Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Do?
A personal injury lawyer provides a wide range of services to guide you through the legal process and maximize your compensation. They can:
- Evaluate your case: A lawyer will assess the strength of your claim and determine whether you have a viable case.
- Investigate the incident: Gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions is key to building a strong case.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: Lawyers handle communications with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement and aren't taken advantage of.
- File a lawsuit if necessary: If a fair settlement can't be reached, the lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court.
- Help calculate damages: This includes medical expenses, lost wages, future medical needs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
- Prepare and file legal documents: Lawyers handle all the paperwork and deadlines associated with your case, including filing motions and discovery requests.
- Represent you at trial: If your case goes to trial, the lawyer will argue your case before a judge and jury to obtain the compensation you deserve.
How Are Personal Injury Lawyers Paid?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win your case, either through settlement or a court judgment. Here’s how it works:
- Contingency fee percentage: The lawyer will take a percentage of the settlement or award, typically between 25% and 40%, depending on the complexity of the case and the stage at which it's resolved.
- Costs and expenses: In addition to the contingency fee, the lawyer may deduct other costs associated with the case, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, and court costs. These expenses are often advanced by the lawyer and repaid out of the settlement.
- No upfront payment: Since the lawyer’s fee is contingent on winning, you usually don’t pay anything upfront.
Always discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during your consultation to avoid surprises.
How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer depends on the specifics of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure. However, since most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, the amount you pay will depend on the outcome of your case. Here are some general guidelines:
- Contingency fees: Typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or award. The percentage may increase if the case goes to trial or requires an appeal.
- Other costs: In addition to the lawyer's fee, you may be responsible for case-related expenses such as expert witness fees, medical record retrieval fees, and court costs. These are often deducted from your settlement, so you won't have to pay out of pocket.
While the cost may seem high, hiring an experienced lawyer can significantly increase the amount you recover, making it a worthwhile investment.
Top Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer
Before hiring a personal injury lawyer, it's essential to ask questions to ensure you’re choosing the right representation. Here are some important questions to ask:
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What is your experience with personal injury cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has handled cases involving similar injuries or accidents. -
What is your fee structure?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and what percentage they will take from any settlement or award. -
How long will my case take?
While it's hard to predict, a lawyer can give you an estimate based on similar cases they’ve handled. -
How often do you take cases to trial?
Some lawyers prefer to settle quickly, while others are more comfortable going to court if necessary. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior lawyers or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it's important to know who will be managing your claim. -
Do you have references from past clients?
Speaking with past clients can provide valuable insight into the lawyer’s effectiveness and professionalism.
How to Check the Credibility of a Personal Injury Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a credible personal injury lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any history of disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Online platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, and Google reviews can provide insight into the lawyer's reputation and client satisfaction.
- Look at their track record: Review their experience with personal injury cases, particularly how many cases they’ve successfully resolved or taken to trial.
- Ask for references: Credible lawyers should be willing to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their work.
- Check professional memberships: Lawyers who are members of respected organizations, like the American Association for Justice (AAJ), often have a solid reputation in the field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first meeting with a personal injury lawyer, prepare the following:
- Detailed account of the accident: Write down everything you remember about the incident, including dates, times, and locations. Include any witnesses or police reports if available.
- Medical records and bills: Bring any documentation of your injuries, treatments, and associated medical costs.
- Insurance information: Provide your insurance details and any communication you’ve had with the other party’s insurance company.
- Employment and income records: If your injury has impacted your ability to work, bring proof of lost wages or reduced earning capacity.
- Photos or videos: If you have photos of the accident scene, your injuries, or property damage, bring them to your consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions to ask, including how the lawyer will handle your case and what you can expect in terms of timeline and outcome.
By preparing thoroughly for your first consultation, you’ll help the lawyer understand your case more quickly and get a better sense of your legal options.
