Filter by

star star star star star
19 Aug, 2024 by Robert zeisler
Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Apr, 2024 by Tayla archer
Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Dec, 2023 by Peter rossi
I found Ms. Richards to be highly unprofessional, highly unethical and highly prejudicial in the execution of my parent's estate. In my opinion, resorting to threats and bullying in an attempt to intimidate a particular beneficiary is beneath the conduct you would otherwise expect from a member of the Bar Association. To be clear, I was not "unhappy with my parent's estate", I was shocked by Ms. Richard's behavior. Her handling of the estate relative to administration and advice given was deplorable, and in no way represented what my parents would have wanted. If you're in the market for an estate attorney that you can trust to do the right thing upon your passing, I recommend that you look elsewhere. I would not have even given Ms. Richards a "1 star" review, but Google doesn't accept anything less.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2017 by Jonathan m.
Long story short, this excuse for a lawyer completely screwed up my case involving a foreclosure. He is not up on current laws and I will be filing a complaint with the Bar Association. I paid this moron and he did NOTHING! NOTHING, NOTHING NOTHING! He even had the nerve to tell me to seek another lawyer specializing in probate, when my matter had NOTHING to do with probate although he claimed he knew all about probate. RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 Oct, 2016 by Jonathan grindell
Neil defended me during my first civil disobedience arrest. While the charges were mitigated, I was told it would be expunged However, this was not the case when I tried to cross the border.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Got my tenant out quick! Answered his own phone! Was concerned, polite and cost was reasonable! I could even reach him at night or on weekends. THE BEST!!!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2024 by Dara eskenazi
Angela has been our attorney for a while. Great estate planning advice.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Apr, 2022 by Tom truppo
Excellent lawyer got me what I wanted and more.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Mar, 2022 by אפיק כהן
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2024 by Dara eskenazi
Angela has been our attorney for a while. Great estate planning advice.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Apr, 2022 by Tom truppo
Excellent lawyer got me what I wanted and more.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Mar, 2022 by אפיק כהן
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2024 by Dara eskenazi
Angela has been our attorney for a while. Great estate planning advice.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Apr, 2022 by Tom truppo
Excellent lawyer got me what I wanted and more.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Mar, 2022 by אפיק כהן
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Hired Steven during a dark time, he helped probate a contentious will along with selling of my sister's estate. He handled the closing and walked me through the probate process. Always responsive and professional. You are in good hands with Steven and the firm Baram & Kaiser.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Was recommended by someone but he's a terrible lawyer. Makes constant mistakes, despite claiming to have years of experience, doesn't follow up on time, and says things will be done at a certain time (but never actually does them). Maybe he's too busy with other clients, but I don't see the professionalism here.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
01 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Attentive and smart. Highly recommend, was always available and was fantastic during closing
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
This attorney is arrogant and very difficult to deal with! He does not look after your best interest, all he cares about is his fee and doing as little as possible! He is not helpful one bit! There are tons of great lawyers out there and he is NOT in that category!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
29 Dec, 2019 by Katrina chapman
Worst attorneys ever. Slip shod work and does not keep the confidentiality of the client. Avaricious and spiteful.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Dec, 2016 by Mehran kohanim
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 Feb, 2018 by James
Phillip Peter Nikolis did such a poor job representing my family, fighting for financial relief after a family tragedy that concluded with a loss-of-life, so poor that I must question how he is licensed in the state of New York. His general communications with us are the worst that I have ever seen or experienced from anyone in the legal field in 50 years, just for starters. You will chase Phillip Peter Nikolis to actually DO work for you post-hiring; you will chase him to find our what exactly he is doing; you will chase him for your settlement. He continually (almost strategically) makes excuses on getting your settlement money like I have never seen or heard. He will exasperate most people, I am sure with his low-energy/poor communication style of representation. Phillip Peter Nikolis also seemed to me to work for the interests of the County in the end, while claiming to our faces that he represented our interests. He had zero ambition or desire to make a fight of it and subtly pushed for us to make a settlement based on what the County was directing, with little consideration of our prior directives or expectations of him. Beware if you are going against the County. Those seem to be all of his friends, not yours! Phillip Peter Nikolis is an incompetent lawyer, in my opinion. After having the experience of dealing with him for quite a few years on our case, I feel that Phillip Peter Nikolis, based in Long Island, NY, should have his licence revoked or should get out of the business of claiming that he does legal work representing people. It's appalling work, combined with a shoddy representation, nearly ensuring a low-settlement. Lastly, this individual also has 'no shame' in his sub-par game. He does it all with a smile.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Please consult with other law firms out there. This law firm is definitely lacking but it's up to you if you want to take the chance and deal with them. I do not recommend.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
He has good wInning record and settled lawsuits but most of the settled are so low that the defendant cant refuse and we poor immigrants that clients of this esquire that we were convinced to settle by him . It seem that he work for the otherside ...poor book keeping sending wrong files.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
I fired this attorney as soon as I realized that he was there only to bill me rather than counsel through the resolution of the case. His bills were ridden with errors and inconsistent with the understanding between us. He would communicate reluctantly and always with an extensive delay.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
This is the lawyer I first came to when I decided a divorce was needed. Initially he promised the moon and stars, and when we would get to court, he would not deliver based on the fact that he was promising scenarios that were not backed up with actual laws, but more what I wanted to hear. He advised I file a petition with Family Court that took 6 hours of my day and on the day of the hearing I was humiliated when Family Court judge ruled it was out of his jurisdiction when a divorce was already filed and pending with the Supreme Court...a scenario this lawyer could have anticipated and brought to my attention beforehand to save me time and money. I wasted thousand of dollars on this man to continuously be ignored by him and not receive not one call from him for two weeks. His assistant and all other members of the administration team in his office apparently do not have email addresses , so I had no choice but to constantly call his office. Very aggravating to work with this man.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
08 Apr, 2024 by Carla
Avoid this attorney. I retained her to protect my interests and she failed miserably. She was retained for a simple residential closing and missed a significant component of the purchase; namely that I was to have beach access rights. This valuable right was clearly mentioned in the contract of sale as well as the title report - which she clearly didnt bother to read. As a result, the access rights were left off the deed. I now have to retain new counsel to amend the deed. As a further insult, when this was brought to her attention, she saw fit to attempt to charge me an additional $700.00 to correct her mistake.
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Do for You

A personal injury lawyer specializes in helping individuals who have been physically or emotionally injured due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another party. Whether you've been hurt in a car accident, suffered a slip and fall, or experienced medical malpractice, a personal injury attorney works to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. They can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses.

Personal injury lawyers act as your advocate, navigating the legal system on your behalf and dealing with insurance companies to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. They understand how to handle complex legal matters and help you avoid common pitfalls.

When Should I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?

Hiring a personal injury lawyer can be beneficial in many situations where you've been harmed due to another's negligence. Some key scenarios include:

  • Severe injuries: If you've suffered significant or permanent injuries that result in substantial medical bills, a lawyer can help ensure you are fairly compensated.
  • Long-term or permanent disability: Injuries that affect your ability to work or require ongoing medical treatment are complex, and a lawyer can help estimate long-term damages.
  • Disputed liability: If the responsible party or their insurance company denies liability for your injury, a lawyer can gather evidence and advocate on your behalf.
  • Insurance company lowball offers: Insurers often try to settle personal injury claims for as little as possible. A lawyer can negotiate to get you a fair settlement.
  • Medical malpractice claims: Injuries caused by a doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider due to negligence require a personal injury lawyer experienced in medical malpractice law.
  • Exposure to hazardous substances: If you've been injured due to exposure to toxins, chemicals, or dangerous substances, a lawyer can help pursue legal action.

Hiring a lawyer early in the process is crucial, especially if you're unsure of the full extent of your injuries or damages.

What Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Do?

A personal injury lawyer provides a wide range of services to guide you through the legal process and maximize your compensation. They can:

  • Evaluate your case: A lawyer will assess the strength of your claim and determine whether you have a viable case.
  • Investigate the incident: Gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions is key to building a strong case.
  • Negotiate with insurance companies: Lawyers handle communications with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement and aren't taken advantage of.
  • File a lawsuit if necessary: If a fair settlement can't be reached, the lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf and represent you in court.
  • Help calculate damages: This includes medical expenses, lost wages, future medical needs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
  • Prepare and file legal documents: Lawyers handle all the paperwork and deadlines associated with your case, including filing motions and discovery requests.
  • Represent you at trial: If your case goes to trial, the lawyer will argue your case before a judge and jury to obtain the compensation you deserve.

How Are Personal Injury Lawyers Paid?

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win your case, either through settlement or a court judgment. Here’s how it works:

  • Contingency fee percentage: The lawyer will take a percentage of the settlement or award, typically between 25% and 40%, depending on the complexity of the case and the stage at which it's resolved.
  • Costs and expenses: In addition to the contingency fee, the lawyer may deduct other costs associated with the case, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, and court costs. These expenses are often advanced by the lawyer and repaid out of the settlement.
  • No upfront payment: Since the lawyer’s fee is contingent on winning, you usually don’t pay anything upfront.

Always discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during your consultation to avoid surprises.

How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer depends on the specifics of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure. However, since most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, the amount you pay will depend on the outcome of your case. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Contingency fees: Typically range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or award. The percentage may increase if the case goes to trial or requires an appeal.
  • Other costs: In addition to the lawyer's fee, you may be responsible for case-related expenses such as expert witness fees, medical record retrieval fees, and court costs. These are often deducted from your settlement, so you won't have to pay out of pocket.

While the cost may seem high, hiring an experienced lawyer can significantly increase the amount you recover, making it a worthwhile investment.

Top Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer

Before hiring a personal injury lawyer, it's essential to ask questions to ensure you’re choosing the right representation. Here are some important questions to ask:

  1. What is your experience with personal injury cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has handled cases involving similar injuries or accidents.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and what percentage they will take from any settlement or award.
  3. 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.
  4. How often do you take cases to trial?
    Some lawyers prefer to settle quickly, while others are more comfortable going to court if necessary.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Scroll to top