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19 Aug, 2024 by Eric miller
I brought Paynter Law an unusual case. The only thing that was clear was that I had been seriously injured, and that the injury had cost our family considerable pain, suffering, time and money. Beyond that there was ambiguity. The case involved multiple parties pointing the finger elsewhere, the complexities of global commerce and nuanced points of law. In working through all that, Stuart Paynter and Sara Willingham took my case through two appeals clear to the NC Supreme Court. They handled the case with top-flight legal strategy, preparation and creativity. They treated every aspect of our relationship with integrity and professionalism. They were always respectful. They were always patient, kind and generous with their time. They always explained what they were doing and why. They even provided resources that helped address repercussions from the injury that weren’t directly related to the case, but did directly impact our well being and peace of mind. When David Larson (who was also great to work with) left the firm to take a position with the State Attorney General's office, there was absolutely no hiccup in passing the baton – none of the confusion or redundant effort or backtracking that almost always follows a staff change. They didn't miss a beat. Across several years and sometimes disappointing turns of event, they never gave up. Paynter Law is a model law firm and has my unconditional endorsement. Stuart, Sara and your team – you will always have our family's thanks and gratitude.
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03 Aug, 2024 by Ow rm
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01 Jul, 2024 by Jean roodny pierre
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09 Feb, 2021 by Donna villano
I used the Coleman law firm, James Rainsford, as my attorney for a negligence case in 2014. He was very informative throughout the process and extremely patient with me as I was a lawyer's nightmare as a client. The firm as a whole has a wonderful team; I highly recommend Coleman, Gledhill, Hargrave, Merritt & Rainsford law firm for competent and thorough representation in any legal issue you might have. This firm is result driven and they stand by their commitment which was demonstrated through their actions in my case. The outcome was outstanding. Thank you, James Rainsford and Coleman, Gledhill, Hargrave, Merritt & Rainsford law firm.
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26 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I had the pleasure of hiring James on two occasions and both times he exceeded my expectations. He worked well with all the attorneys involved in the first case and he was a key figure in getting me a great settlement in a personal injury case. His expertise with insurance companies was a key factor. The second case was a very simple case involving a citation but he was very thorough and was able to resolve the issue to my satisfaction. I truly believe he has a great future ahead of him. He is very personable, intelligent and hard working.
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26 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired James Rainsford when he was referred to me by one of Greensboro's top attorneys. I was scared and felt defeated already. My case seemed doomed. Once I began to work with Mr. Rainsford, he strategically untangled all the parts and pieces little by little. He knew that timing was everything. While he was realistic about a possible adverse outcome, he encouraged me to be patient and positive. He built a strong arguement that was game -changing despite what my case looked like at first glance. My charge was dismissed and my life was put back together. It's better than ever, actually. I highly recommend and trust Mr. Rainsford and his team... 100% Hands Down would hire him agaiin!
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12 Jun, 2017 by Margaret
5 Stars are not enough for Kim Steffan for the Process of Events as they evolved…and it was a long time before I realized the depth of her Integrity…and that old fashion word…Honor Client Protection: The Will My Life Partner took almost a Year before he was Satisfied with his Will. Ms Steffan was patient with every change. When it was time to Sign the Will, as my Partner was by then Bed Bound, Ms Steffan arrived with her Staff for the Signing. I was sent almost to Siberia because it was mid January and it had Snowed just that week, but I was required to leave for Ms Steffan will not allow anyone other than her Client to be around to assure her Client has no Interference. It took about 45 minutes for the final signing. Probate: ‘The Estate’ I happened to be both the Executor and a Beneficiary. Having been an Executor before in a more simple State, It was hard for me accept some principles Ms Steffan had to give me for processing a NC Probate. Ms Steffan had to drag me ‘kicking & screaming’ into the reality of “The Estate is my Client”, along with more of the complexities of NC Law. I didn’t want to accept that I was not the ‘Client’ but the ‘Estate’. Will Contest: Bygone Era Honor & Integrity As can happen sometimes along comes a Will Contest and this is when it became known to me the substance of Kim Steffan…her Integrity & Honor and her Loyalty to her Client even after he was gone. In bygone days, a Lawyer knew your Family History, the Generations and kept it’s Secrets. When a Will Contest showed up it was then things came out that I had never knew. Even as Executor and a Beneficiary, Ms Steffan never revealed her Private Conversations with her Client. She kept her Client’s Confidentiality even after he was gone. And this was the Revelation of Ms Steffan’s Integrity…She knew her Client’s Wishes & Desires and kept them with Honor. For Client Loyalty…and Complexity of NC Estate & Trust Law: Look no further than Kim Steffan, Attorney at Law. I would TRUST her with anything and only regret I never realized the Power and Honor of her long before.
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05 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Steffan and Associates has made me feel as someone does care and wants the best for me.
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10 Aug, 2022 by Patricia minter&james minter
Mrs Holthcamp was very professional in resolving my case, i recommend her for all your legal advice, she does all types of services, please give her a call if or when you need legal representation, thank you again
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26 May, 2020 by Leslie
I have had to hire Erika on a couple of occasions regarding the home I am renting. Each time I visited Erika's office she always gives top notch legal advice that works every time. I definitely recommend her and will continue to reach out to Erika whenever the need arises.
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07 Mar, 2024 by N martínez
Recomendado al 100% calidad, experiencia, profesionalismo y servicio al cliente 👌 excelente servicio... muy satisfecha con el servicio, gracias 🥰
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25 Oct, 2023 by Francis
Daron Satterfield loves his job. I wouldn’t have it for love or money, but here is a man who truly loves his work. Here is my story. I sold some land in 2018 in Durham County. The real estate agents Alex Rivers and David Balon did, by way of deception, caused me to sign an agreement with them while under contract to another agency. They told me that their lawyer, Josh Whitaker, said that I did not receive “adequate compensation”. As a result of this advice, I told the first party that I had not received adequate compensation and signed with Alex Rivers and David Balon of ReMax. Within six days or less, a lis pendens or “suit pending” was filed against the land. That action froze my land and put me into a state of severe depression. I hired Kenneth Haywood, a lawyer from the agency of Howard Stallings From Atkins Angell and Davis in Raleigh. I paid him $7500. We went to mediation, all to no avail as I told Haywood. Nothing else was done except for more billing, up to nearly $13000. I refused to pay any more and he quit!~ Daron took on the job at short notice, sat up all night and found case law and president that allowed my effort to continue. We went to court and he was astounding in his remarks to the jury, and his cross examination of this swine. It took about 90 minutes for the jury to find in my favor. Daron is a man you can trust, and one who believes in service to those in need, and I can tell you from the heart that that was me. Francis J Hale, III
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31 Aug, 2023 by Pamela
It was a pleasure doing Business with Mr Daron Satterfield he is smart,knowledgeable ,kind ,patient,caring ,professional and a great listener making it smooth and clear to complete our mission. I am pleased and would highly recommend his attorney services .
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09 Aug, 2023 by Scott dawson
John was extremely professional and helped bring a successful resolution to my case in a timely manner. John was also very responsive to questions and concerns. Highly recommend
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14 Jun, 2023 by F and p farms
A Real Gentleman - Helpful, and Generous with His Time & Experience. I contacted Dr. Loftin regarding a matter for which I may need an attorney. He invited me in and discussed the matter at length, despite not being "on the clock" and me not being a client. A credit to Hillsborough.
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07 May, 2023 by Christy freeman
John is an amazing attorney always looking out for the best interest of his clients!
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08 Dec, 2023 by Jay butcher
Mrs Lowe is a great attorney she knows her stuff and fights hard for you. I will definitely call her again if I need an attorney again.
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02 Sep, 2022 by Kenni
Connie is who all lawyers should be. Shes the definition of why people get in this field. She has helped me in several cases and she fought tooth and nail for my family.
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12 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
My attorney was one in a million! If it was not for her I would be lost in the custody battle / 50 be that I had with my significant other. She had guided me step by step throughout the whole entire process, any questions or comments or worries that I had she answered them all in a timely manner she was a wonderful person to have on my side!
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14 Jun, 2023 by Jp
I contacted Dr. Loftin regarding a matter for which I may need an attorney. He invited me in and discussed the matter at length, despite not being "on the clock" and me not being a client. A credit to Hillsborough.
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07 Nov, 2019 by Jeff
Professional, Genuine, Caring and Passionate are just a few of the adjectives to describe John Loftin. My wife and I hired John's firm to handle our Estate Litigation/Will Caveat case that we were involved in. We went into the Mediation not sure what to expect or even how it worked. John outlined what was happening, and what was going to happen and kept reassuring us that our game plan was still in tact. His mediation skills far exceeded our expectations. John took a very stressful situation that were in and made it very comforting for us. John's firm was recommended to us by a friend and we highly recommend him for your legal needs!
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03 Jan, 2019 by Jack
I hired John Loftin to represent my son who was in an accident and received several citations. Mr. Loftin wisely advised him on the steps he could take to help his case and as a result all charges were dropped. I am very grateful for his expertise and council in this matter.
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22 Nov, 2019 by Craven
Attorney Ron Cooley has a reputation for success in criminal defense – one that carries weight in legal circles, with business leaders, and throughout the community because he is highly competent and honest. This is the result of his involvement in numerous high-profile cases involving complex legal issues and individual rights in NC. More methodical than mercurial, he is known for his diligence and long working hours, and returns phone calls and emails with incredible speed. He understands the legal issues of each case, and his drive is to be the best. I have hired Ron Cooley to defend me in two complex cases in Orange County, NC and I am extremely grateful for his counsel. He truly is a hard driving defense attorney.
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02 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Once I paid his very high fee in full, the level of service dropped so low I had to hire another attorney to finish the work Mr. Cooley was hired to do. When asked for a rebate he told me I should pay him more. If you hire him, do not pay until the work is completed.
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20 Apr, 2018 by Darrell
Attorney Cooley: Is very professional and a dedicated lawyer. I retained Attorney Cooley on a short notice with only one day to prep. I was amazed and happy with the outcome. I strongly recommend Attorne Cooley.
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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:

  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.

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