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29 May, 2024 by Steve phillips
24 May, 2024 by Steve-o man
Dodge and Dodge office returned my call for professional representation on a weekend without hesitation or delay. Mark D. represented me and I couldn’t be more thankful for his counsel. I have recommended their office to everyone who asks and I will continue to do so.
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17 May, 2024 by Cj allers
David has been absolutely wonderful to work with. Very attentive and informative. I'm completely satisfied this far and I'm glad I switched attorneys over to him. Keeps in constant contact with me to update me with whats going on. Very straight forward. Highly recommended!
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21 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Josh met with me in regards to my divorce and was very compassionate and understanding. He always had mine and my sons best interest in mind. The divorce was complete in 6 months and he was with me every step of the way, making sure I understood everything that was happening. Afterwards he did estate planning for me to ensure I would have no worries about my sons well-being should something happen to me. Josh was great and I have referred others to him and would go back to him for my future needs.
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17 Mar, 2017 by Calvin
Mr. Tanis helped me with setting up my estate plan and trust for my children. He was very helpful and thorough during the entire process. He made sure that everything was spelled out carefully in order that it could be implemented smoothly when it is needed. He included many things that I would have not thought of. I had delayed in having my estate plan done because I thought it was going to be very complicated. He made it easy for me, beginning to end. This was the second time I have worked with him. He did a partnership agreement for me last year for my business. He did a great job with that and with this estate plan.
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16 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Joshua was very knowledgeable and helped us put together our estate package including trust, wills and guardianship for our children. We have complete peace of mind now knowing our estate is in order. I would definitely recommend using him.
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28 May, 2021 by Anonymous
For many years Mr. Jesson has worked for me personally as well as for my family business. He is patient and skillful in helping with many different legal issues. I would recommend him to anyone who is in need of a lawyer.
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11 Mar, 2019 by Ann
I was at a low point in my life. I have young children and I needed a good lawyer who would protect me in my divorce. Erik Jesson and his law partners did a great job for me and for my children. He made sure that I received a good judgment from the court and was very helpful to me. I highly recommend him.
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01 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Jesson represented me first on a drunk driving case. When I later needed a lawyer for my business (and, after that, more personal matters), he and his firm were top-notch professionals. I can't believe what a fantastic job they all did on my behalf.
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05 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Jeremy is one of the best attorneys I've ever hired, he successfully helped me with my case and I would recommend him to anyone who needs a lawyer
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05 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Very Helpful and a great support very Nice person always positive about the situation and whenever I have questions he tries his best to answer them for me and help me get that understand
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31 Jan, 2018 by Sabrina
My case was ongoing for 3 1/2 years. I was initially with glen Lerner and then transferred to Andrew Kryder's office. In this office I went through a handful of attorneys. Jermey tiedt was the only attorney who actually took time to listen to my case and my needs as a client. He worked closely with my case and took my feelings into consideration during arbitration and settlement. He knew the struggles I went through and kindly took a reduction in attorney fees to help me as a client. He responds in a timely manner and is very professional. I would recommend attorney Jermey tiedt,esq.
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20 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Attorney Grimm represented me admirably in a complex civil litigation. He negotiated a favorable settlement without the need for a long trial. I would not hesitate to recommend him to friends and family. He is top-tier and his reputation precedes him.
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23 Sep, 2020 by Sf
No nonsense guy. If you have a case, he's fully engaged and fights hard. He includes client in every step. His experience and great instincts place him a cut above. Legal malpractice cases are difficult, and he was honest about the challenges in the beginning, With great communication and research about our case, he created a winning strategy that led to a substantial settlement.
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02 Jul, 2018 by Vince
I strongly recommend Steve Grimm for your legal needs. He exceeded my expectations on my settlement. Great job!!!
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05 Jun, 2022 by Vaughn jurgens
28 Nov, 2021 by Alex wesseling
01 Sep, 2019 by Cody c
Great people. Will listen to your needs.
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15 Feb, 2019 by Addeury marmol
Had many faults my first court
Was supposed to have penalty and a lot more. I went to my first one
And all charges drop all I got was a ticket
EVERYONE PLEASE IF YOU NEED A LAWYER GO TO HIM HE IS THE ONE HE KNOWS WHAT HES DOING
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03 Jul, 2016 by Kris
Had some truancy issues and i went to James, eventually hiring him. Him and his staff were friendly and courteous while dealing with this whole ordeal.
In the end, James' skill had everything wrapped up in an effiecient and timely manner. I would hire him again, should the need arise.
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08 Feb, 2016 by Richard higgins
When I first met Jim I was facing a Domestic Assault charge out of Grandville Michigan. Quickly he went to work gathering information and staying in constant contact in order to dig at the case. His confidence picked me up when I felt very discouraged. I had a tremendous amount of pressure riding on the outcome of my case.
While in jail he visited me and continued to hash away at my case. He gave me hope even when I had none. His confidence, dedication and hard work as a lawyer are all virtues that you would look for in representation. Above all else he was my friend when I had none. I give Jim a 10/10 and would recommend him AND his firm to anyone. Even his assistant Sydney is helpful and extremely friendly with every single encounter. If I ever run in to trouble again I know who to turn to. He saved my career in the military, my goals in law enforcement and my life. Thanks for everything Jim.
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29 Nov, 2023 by Mithilesh
I very much liked a methodical ,incredibly hard working and dealing with the issue specific to the matter . Mr .Worsfold is an accomplished ,very knowledgeable and accomplished professional and did an outstanding job in settling the case just one correspondence .I highly recommend him .
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08 Jan, 2021 by Stacy
Mr. Worsfold was referred to us while we were in the middle of a case with our auto insurance company. We met with him and hired him right away. He was great from day one, and is still helping us today. He is very knowledgeable in situations like ours, and I would recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer for similar situations.
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08 Jan, 2021 by Brandon
I was in a bad auto accident in 2009 and have been in and out of surgery ever since. Like many of you, I had an insurance company that just would not budge when it came to paying the benefits that we are entitled to. I had contacted many lawyers with no luck and had settled with a lawyer out of Ann Arbor, who ultimately referred me over to Mr. Worsfold after a couple of years of getting nowhere. Mr. Worsfold was very kind and passionate about my case. He went the extra mile and won my case within a few months. The communication throughout my case was amazing! He always kept me up to date and in the loop. He went beyond what I believe any other lawyer would have done for me and my family. I would leave a 6 star rating if I could. I highly recommend Mr.Worsfold.
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20 Dec, 2015 by Marilyn
My husband was in a motorcycle accident this last summer. I don't think people realize the turmoil that happens at a time like that to the spouse or caregiver. Of course, first of all you are concerned for the persons well being and then the decisions have to start being made. I finally realized that I needed a lawyer to help me and Peter was recommended. We were so thankful for him. He is not only very good at his job but very compassionate and caring. We always felt like we could ask him anything and get an honest answer and a prompt one. He helped us through a very difficult time in our lives and we know he will always be available to us in the future. We highly recommend Peter Smit.M
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18 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Peter helped our family through the most difficult time of our lives. He was patient, empathetic, and resourceful during a process that lasted nearly two years. Peter did the absolute best for our family.
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18 Dec, 2015 by Bill
I contacted Varnum Law, the largest law firm in West Michigan and one of the largest in the state of Michigan after a rear end collision by a texting driver that left me with severe, chronic injuries that are life changing. I asked for the best and the toughest trial attorney that they had for personal injury and trial work. The receptionist said, "you must want to speak with Peter Smit." I had a phone conversation with Peter who then came to visit me at my home. I showed Peter my policy and he commented that I bought the right insurance because I had a $1,000,000 under insured and uninsured rider on my policy. Peter when to work and began to do the underlying work necessary to file a law suit against the woman that hit me and the owner of her car along with her insurance provider. Once Peter did her deposition and I did mine with the help of Peter's partner Bonnie Sawusch who is both an attorney and a registered nurse, the defendant's insurance carrier paid out the maximum on the policy and my insurance carrier which previously refused to pay any disability came to the table with an offer to settle the disability portion of the case with a healthy settlement that maximized the statutory amount allowed for disability in the State of Michigan.
Peter then immediately filed suit against my insurance company for the balance of the under insured liability which was a significant amount. We got all the way to two months before trial and had a settlement conference. Peter and Bonnie prepared a very strong offense as to why we deserved the maximum. The settlement conference produced a significant amount for us to settle the case which my wife and I decided was the best way to go. My cousin is an insurance defense lawyer. He told me that in fifteen years of insurance defense he has only paid out an amount near what we received twice in fifteen years. We ended up with a very healthy award between the defendant's policy payout, the disability and the award from my insurance carrier for breach of contract.
I watched all the ads on TV about 1-800 call some jackass in Detroit. I never gave it a thought. Varnum had done all of my intellectual property work and I knew the quality of the work they do. Peter had had jury awards and settlements far in excess of 1-800 call the jackass and being a highly respected and successful law firm Varnum has significant resources to pay up front the costs of litigation.
I would hire Peter Smit for any litigation that I have going forward and highly recommend Peter and his parter Bonnie Sawusch especially for cases that involve complex personal injury.
My wife and I were very pleased with the outcome and I can't begin to recommend Peter, Bonnie and Varnum Law enough. I don't call the first attorney in the phone book. I do my research and knew Varnum was the only firm that I wanted to represent me.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Ty troeger
While needing to hire a lawyer was not on my list of things to do in life, being in a position where I needed one brought me to the Rodenhouse Law Group. Wonderful people from start to finish. Audra McClure was amazing with communication from the initial meeting to the final contact. Their efforts certainly made a life changing experience one that was not rushed, felt like I was being pressured or just another number in their list of clients: they made me feel like everything I had to say was important regardless of how big or little the details were.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Lorna grant
Miles took such wonderful care for me and my family. I will recommend Miles and your whole law office to everyone. Thank you for everything you did for me.
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08 Jun, 2017 by Marcia
Aubri is extremely attentive to the needs of her clients. She works diligently on their behalf. Aubri is concerned about the well-being of her clients as well as working out the best settlement possible.
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29 Jan, 2014 by Nancy
Dear Mr. Murphy,
Thank you so much for winning my Social Security Disability case. I am so glad I chose your firm and I will certainly recommend you to my friends and family. It was obvious from our first meeting that you knew what you were doing and your excellent advice and guidance helped me to get a fully favorable decision.
Thank you to your Government Benefits Specialist, Rick Cross, as well for working with me through my case. After Rick's call telling me I had won my Disability, I had to just let it sink in.
Thank you both again very much!
Nancy
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16 Mar, 2010 by Susan
Miles handled my recent divorce case. He could tell I had been stressed out about it, but he walked me through the whole thing successfully. I had a ton of questions and Miles explained everthing I wanted in detail--and with patience! I am very satisfied with my judgement and with Miles' representation. I would definetely recommend him.
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31 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Stephen's work on our behalf was absolutely phenomenal. He extensively prepared months in advance of the trial, he knew the law backwards and forwards, and his public speaking was excellent. We could tell that he really put his heart and soul into our case, and it definitely showed in the results. We recommend Stephen Hulst in the strongest possible terms.
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26 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
He is a really good caring guy, and he was always available throughout my complicated case.
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22 Feb, 2018 by Portia
Very knowledgable and helpful. Very thorough and compentent. The first lawyer I spoke to without a condescending attitude whether he's willing to take the case or not.
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07 May, 2015 by Christopher
Adam was responsive and decisive, willing to provide an accurate accounting throughout every engagement he was involved in with my organization. I appreciated his willingness to go to bat for me and be aggressive when we needed it. I would hire him again in a heartbeat.
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25 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I had a family issue arise where difficult choices had to be made that could impact future generations. I found Mr. Betz to be wise and knowledgeable, and able to assist in looking at the options and long-term potential consequences of each one. I was very impressed with his concern for ethical choices over just expedient ones. I so appreciate the way he considered family relationships as well as legal options. I would highly recommend him.
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08 Aug, 2018 by Martin
Within the first few minutes of meeting Ian, I realized two things. First, he's one of the good guys. He is compassionate, cares about people and doesn't carry that air some attorneys tend to have. But, more importantly for this situation, I knew I wanted him on my side when it came to my court case. His sage, percipient advice and keen, confident strategy routinely put the other side off balance and gave me an advantage in negotiating a complex civil case with multiple defendants. Put simply: Mr. Northon is one of the best attorneys I've met.
I learned quickly it's easy to find an attorney to take your case, but it is quite difficult to find someone who will make your case his own. As a client, I want my attorney to be wholly invested in my case. Even at some of the best firms, that doesn't always happen. However, with Ian, he often reminded me about key points in the case I had forgotten or missed. Moreover, my long, arduous case was draining and I needed someone with Ian's personality. After our consultations, I always felt more energized and clear on the way ahead. He has a knack for explaining technical issues in an easy-to-understand way even a layman like I can comprehend. And, even when I asked simple questions, sometimes more than once, he answered without making me feel dense. Remember, he's not only one of the good guys, but the attorney you want in your corner.
People skills are nice, but for your case and mine, we need to couple people skills with talented litigation. To that end, Ian Northon is the best choice. From the moment we began, he "owned" my case like it was his...as if he was personally involved. What I mean, beyond what I mentioned above, is Ian tends to buck the adage about attorneys stating "no one will be more invested in your case than you". There were times where I felt Ian was readier than I. He definitely took a personal interest in my case and delivered advice and strategy as if it was his own. His confidence and assertive style kept my case moving and the other side from getting away with some really dirty tricks they tried to pull. I would have been far worse off in my case had I not met Ian. More than that, he was honest. Mr. Northon never gave me false hope or promises that weren't delivered. Further, he is efficient in his case handling. I never felt overcharged. In fact, he was vocal about not wasting my money and pointed out attempts by the other side to increase their billable hours, but at no advantage to their clients. (This point was very important to me because I had just retired from the military and hadn't yet found employment.) In sum, he is an essential asset to his clients and daunting foe to the other side.
This attorney-at-law is an example to his colleagues in his integrity, legal knowledge, litigation skills and client relations. He is empathetic and cares about your case, but also well-equipped to be your "secret weapon" in court. If you find yourself needing skilled, honest representation, I wholeheartedly recommend Ian Northon.
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03 Nov, 2021 by Randall
Peter helped me out When my wife had died, very professional, and made a very difficult time a lot easier!
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19 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Craig is a great attorney, that is well known in the courts. He has served me and my family well in the two proceedings we hired him. He doesn't make any promises but gives you the facts on the charges and what he feel the court will do. He goes above the call of duty by also caring for his clients. Most lawyers couldn't care about the personal lives of their clients, but Craig does.
The first time I used Craig he got a felony unlawful vehicle charge completely dropped. The second time he got a felony assault charge dropped to a misdemeanor with no jail time and going off of the record after the probation is completed.
I would highly recommend Craig to anyone who wants a dedicated, determined lawyer that cares.
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02 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Steve did a great job working on my Will & Estate Plan after my divorce. I would recommend him to everyone.
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07 Mar, 2016 by Sue
Rick is not only an excellent litigator, he is completely reliable and treats his clients with respect. He made time for communicating outside of office hours and clearly explained the process.
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05 Jun, 2022 by Vaughn jurgens
28 Nov, 2021 by Alex wesseling
01 Sep, 2019 by Cody c
Great people. Will listen to your needs.
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19 May, 2023 by Kim r. harris
18 Sep, 2024 by ??
James k champion I thought would represent me in my best interest for 20,000 got me the same outcome of my court case I could have got the same output by myself and saved 20,000 I even had him fire my previous lawyer cause I trusted him. Only for him to do the same thing the previous lawyer did to me bad mouth me to mr.champion for mr.champion to react the way he did. He did not do 20,000 worth of work no interviews no sit downs no progress reports just my 20,000 gone I had saved for my house I was gonna buy. Nope my dreams are crushed my moneys gone and to what 2 lawyers who just agreed with the prosecuting attorney because I have a possession charge so they don't want to represent someone like that but they sure will take there money and lickety split gone if I honestly felt like you did something to earn that 20,000 yeah kudos right. Maybe 5,-8,000 MAYBE it's a decision I have to live with for the rest of my life and still be reminded of it everyday it's like I can open my mouth but no one will hear me if I can stop someone for dropping everything they got in hopes you can make a positive impact in there life and create a false hope of changing an out come that negatively affects them for the rest of there life if I can stop and save someone from making the same mistake I made then this review is worth it to me cause nobody has bothered to see how I felt after giving you everything and this is my only way of an outlet so be it please everyone do not believe everything that you hear or see cause this negative review will get deleted like it never existed beware!!!
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25 Aug, 2024 by Daryl wilde
Straight up advice. Confident, did exactly what he said he would do. Would recommend and definitely use him again if needed.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Julie corby
Bill was amazing through the whole process of handling my dog bite injury. He was hard working, knowledgeable, trust worthy, compassionate and confident. His communication was great with me as well. I just relaxed while he got the job done fast and effectively. I never doubted for one second that he wound not win my case. Don’t hesitate to hire Bill!!!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Aiden deng
Mark was extremely helpful and experienced, he was very knowledgable and very resourceful as well. 100% would recommend.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Nic paauw
The first and only call you need to make when charged with an owi/dui is Mark Caldwell
From there follow his instructions to the letter, he knows the ins and outs of the courts, judges, and prosecutors, and when he gives advice follow it
He is a hardworking, honest, and straight shooting lawyer, he is there to help you get through this difficult situation, and make sure you navigate the intricacies of the law
He has an exemplary reputation within the legal community, which will greatly benefit you when pleading your case
This is the man that will get you your second chance
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11 Jul, 2024 by Mower safety
Very helpful lawyer and affordable I’d advise to get him if you are charged with a DUI
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03 Sep, 2024 by Ashley
Jason represented me for my second OWI. He was very thorough and easy to communicate with. I didn’t get any jail.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Nathan hamann
Helped me tackle exactly what I needed to! Highly recommend!
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11 Mar, 2024 by Stacy reisbig
Just needed some advice for a family member. Jason is so helpful and responds quickly!
He’s very down to earth and I highly recommend him!
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20 Jun, 2022 by H8 xeus
They took good care of me. I would recommend to friends and family.
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16 Dec, 2021 by Robert
Steve provided great service and was prompt on all communications. He is considerate and a great listener traits I value.
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26 Jul, 2021 by Kimberly brower
I had a great experience with the Firm.My attorney was Nick Romer he is very responsive and helpful to make sure everything is done correctly.Helped get my process done quickly. I recommend him if you need a attorney for Disability.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Aiden deng
Mark was extremely helpful and experienced, he was very knowledgable and very resourceful as well. 100% would recommend.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Nic paauw
The first and only call you need to make when charged with an owi/dui is Mark Caldwell
From there follow his instructions to the letter, he knows the ins and outs of the courts, judges, and prosecutors, and when he gives advice follow it
He is a hardworking, honest, and straight shooting lawyer, he is there to help you get through this difficult situation, and make sure you navigate the intricacies of the law
He has an exemplary reputation within the legal community, which will greatly benefit you when pleading your case
This is the man that will get you your second chance
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11 Jul, 2024 by Mower safety
Very helpful lawyer and affordable I’d advise to get him if you are charged with a DUI
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23 Oct, 2024 by Aiden deng
Mark was extremely helpful and experienced, he was very knowledgable and very resourceful as well. 100% would recommend.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Nic paauw
The first and only call you need to make when charged with an owi/dui is Mark Caldwell
From there follow his instructions to the letter, he knows the ins and outs of the courts, judges, and prosecutors, and when he gives advice follow it
He is a hardworking, honest, and straight shooting lawyer, he is there to help you get through this difficult situation, and make sure you navigate the intricacies of the law
He has an exemplary reputation within the legal community, which will greatly benefit you when pleading your case
This is the man that will get you your second chance
Read more
11 Jul, 2024 by Mower safety
Very helpful lawyer and affordable I’d advise to get him if you are charged with a DUI
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29 Jul, 2024 by Roy
Christensen Law is the place to go if you need an auto attorney. They put the client first! Top of the line service. Highly recommend
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29 Jul, 2024 by Marc johnson
I was truly pleased with my experience. They walked me through every detail step-by-step. They treated me like family, and I recommend everyone in need of legal help to this firm. Definitely top notch!!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Amanda nickerson
I highly recommend Christensen Law. They always make sure to answer any of your questions and fight to get you what you deserve.
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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.
