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21 Jan, 2025 by Christina beach
21 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie comer
1 star is way to much to give this law firm. I was not impressed with them. Their lack of communication with executors. I wouldn't recommend them to my worst enemy. They drag their feet on closing estates. I feel that they only look at $$$ signs to line their pockets. DO NOT USE THIS LAW FIRM. Unfortunately my father's oldest daughter hired them because they are located close to where she lives.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Michael green
After my grandfather passed away in December of 2021, I received a letter from Ellis Law Firm stating that I was an heir to his estate along with a copy of my grandfather's will. His will stated that each of his grandkids were to receive $1,000 but now Ellis Law Firm is claiming that his grandkids get nothing. Ellis Law Firm is run by people who are clearly not fit to practice law. Please be aware of this shady law firm. 1 star is still 5 stars too many.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Benjamin shaw
Frank's the man for family law.
Dan does magic in traffic court.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Courtney elliott
The lawyers at this firm are extremely rude, condescending, and apathetic. They overtalk you, use loud tones and come off as very superior. There are other firms out there that will take time to listen to you and are willing to help you out. Go there and avoid this place!
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14 Jun, 2024 by Natasha brown
I spoke with Gotsdiner today, a managing partner of this law firm, and he is EXTREMELY rude, arrogant, and ornery! His demeanor reeks of a superiority complex. I needed assistance on a legal matter through my pre-paid legal services. He got on the phone without even a salutation! He immediately says, they could not find a referral attorney for my legal matter. He told me to go to the Iowa Bar Association and find an attorney on my own. Imagine a law office with lawyers allegedly with all areas of practice saying they can’t provide you with an attorney who practices what would presumably fall under real estate law.
He continued to aggressively overstate that they can’t find an attorney or make an attorney take my case, and he’s not going to answer a bunch of questions on my legal matter. He unnecessarily stressed that I needed to find an attorney who could take my case and stated that rather than hang up on me, I needed to find one on my own. I was appalled at the way I was being spoken to unprovoked. While he went on this rant, I was mostly silent because I was so taken aback that my mouth was agape and just totally aghast. He also told me they do not have to provide me with a referral attorney.
The whole purpose of having pre-paid legal services is to be able to get legal advice on legal matters when and if they arise. If they cannot provide you with legal representation, they can refer you to an attorney who can. Imagine a managing partner arrogantly and rudely telling you that he will not provide you with any of the things that are specifically mentioned in what they are supposed to provide. I am appalled and disgusted by the way this man spoke to me today. I will certainly be canceling my pre-paid membership and implore anyone considering pre-paid legal services or Gotsdiner in the state of Iowa to reconsider another option. Such as the bar association, as I was so rudely referred to.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Jauna paulsen
25 Jun, 2024 by Carolyn hill
10 Apr, 2024 by Hillary hawkins
Could not recommend them more. They were quick, responsive and honest!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rca tablet
08 Jul, 2024 by Pat d
08 Jul, 2024 by Maria locher-claus
Undoubtedly the best Law Practice in Dubuque! Brian Kane and his staff are not only so methodical but kind, prompt and patient; not to mention providing a service for a very fair fee! I cannot say enough about Brian, Barb, Angie and the entire law firm, they brought Justice to a family in need! Thank you all so much!
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28 Feb, 2024 by Susan greiner
21 Feb, 2024 by James kozak
19 Jul, 2023 by Danielle gorden
17 Jun, 2022 by Lynn rossow
They were very professional and helped me with my documents. They had them done right and the way that I wanted. They even helped me with my payment, by letting me make monthly payments
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01 Oct, 2021 by Dana meyers
06 Dec, 2019 by Jerry hanson
26 Nov, 2024 by Dallas britt
After a long chips case represented by Bryan Webber I just won custody of two of my sons. This is where I'll be coming and recommending for any legal representation in the state of Iowa.
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10 Nov, 2024 by Nayda ramos
Review of Attorney Jeremy Evans:
I sought representation from Attorney Jeremy Evans to navigate a highly complex CPS case involving the termination of my parental rights (TPR). Unfortunately, my experience with Mr. Evans did not meet my expectations, and I feel it’s important to share this feedback for anyone considering his services.
Lack of Attention to Constitutional Violations:
One of my primary concerns was that crucial constitutional issues were not presented in my case, which ultimately impacted the outcome. I repeatedly requested that Mr. Evans raise these violations, which included concerns about due process and fair representation. However, despite my insistence and evidence in the form of email exchanges, he assured me it was unnecessary. This omission was critical, as the Iowa Supreme Court later declined to review my case, in part due to the absence of these constitutional arguments.
Lack of Communication and Transparency:
Throughout the case, I felt that communication was insufficient. Important updates were often delayed, and I was not fully informed about strategic decisions or options available to us, especially in moments that could have impacted my case’s direction. Clear and transparent communication is essential in such sensitive matters, and I believe this is an area where improvement is needed.
Limited Advocacy for My Parental Rights:
In a CPS case as delicate as this, I expected my attorney to be proactive and fully committed to advocating for my parental rights. While every case has complexities, I felt that my perspective and wishes for my children’s well-being and placement were not adequately represented or fought for in court.
Overall Experience:
Given the outcome of my case, I cannot, in good faith, recommend Attorney Jeremy Evans for cases involving parental rights and CPS. Legal representation should involve not only skill and knowledge but also dedication to the client’s rights and a commitment to raising essential issues when they arise.
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15 Sep, 2024 by Dilan boess
26 Nov, 2024 by Dallas britt
After a long chips case represented by Bryan Webber I just won custody of two of my sons. This is where I'll be coming and recommending for any legal representation in the state of Iowa.
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10 Nov, 2024 by Nayda ramos
Review of Attorney Jeremy Evans:
I sought representation from Attorney Jeremy Evans to navigate a highly complex CPS case involving the termination of my parental rights (TPR). Unfortunately, my experience with Mr. Evans did not meet my expectations, and I feel it’s important to share this feedback for anyone considering his services.
Lack of Attention to Constitutional Violations:
One of my primary concerns was that crucial constitutional issues were not presented in my case, which ultimately impacted the outcome. I repeatedly requested that Mr. Evans raise these violations, which included concerns about due process and fair representation. However, despite my insistence and evidence in the form of email exchanges, he assured me it was unnecessary. This omission was critical, as the Iowa Supreme Court later declined to review my case, in part due to the absence of these constitutional arguments.
Lack of Communication and Transparency:
Throughout the case, I felt that communication was insufficient. Important updates were often delayed, and I was not fully informed about strategic decisions or options available to us, especially in moments that could have impacted my case’s direction. Clear and transparent communication is essential in such sensitive matters, and I believe this is an area where improvement is needed.
Limited Advocacy for My Parental Rights:
In a CPS case as delicate as this, I expected my attorney to be proactive and fully committed to advocating for my parental rights. While every case has complexities, I felt that my perspective and wishes for my children’s well-being and placement were not adequately represented or fought for in court.
Overall Experience:
Given the outcome of my case, I cannot, in good faith, recommend Attorney Jeremy Evans for cases involving parental rights and CPS. Legal representation should involve not only skill and knowledge but also dedication to the client’s rights and a commitment to raising essential issues when they arise.
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15 Sep, 2024 by Dilan boess
09 Feb, 2024 by Tony
14 Dec, 2023 by Theblackjoanrivers
Called here on two differebt days woman answer phone on day 1 take my short story takea my numbers says she will have her call me back an nothing. Day 2 called back same thing short story take my info no call i have a civil rights lawsuit an these office is playing weird games so dont waste your time here i can see not this isnt a law firm that stands on buissness another bad business in davenport
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13 Dec, 2019 by Smiles smiles
21 Oct, 2024 by Gregory
Do not use this firm
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27 Jun, 2020 by Conrad law (scanner)
Competent without being impersonal. I know Don and Nile best. Ask for either of them if you need a job done right.
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26 May, 2020 by Douglas deaton
17 Oct, 2024 by Susan lee
Even this law firm would not represent me but pointed me to the right directions for resources in a fast response.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Charles derrig
04 Mar, 2023 by Renee rugg
No issues in helping me when my husband passed. I will be using Nicholas Cochran's services in near future.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Susan lee
Even this law firm would not represent me but pointed me to the right directions for resources in a fast response.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Charles derrig
04 Mar, 2023 by Renee rugg
No issues in helping me when my husband passed. I will be using Nicholas Cochran's services in near future.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Susan lee
Even this law firm would not represent me but pointed me to the right directions for resources in a fast response.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Charles derrig
04 Mar, 2023 by Renee rugg
No issues in helping me when my husband passed. I will be using Nicholas Cochran's services in near future.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Nikki lindemann
Nick Wingert is an absolute god send. He is understanding, promp, hardworking and has gone above and beyond for my case and my overall wellbeing. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Not only is he a good lawyer, he's a good person. Thanks for everything Nick!!
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23 Nov, 2024 by Tammy wright
08 Nov, 2024 by Me me
terrible at his job, and yells
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29 Dec, 2024 by Nick jones
Don’t ever use this law firm all the will do is help you lose the children.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Wolfvindicated
I can’t speak on everyone at this law firm, but I cannot in good conscience recommend Keith Buzzard as a lawyer to anyone. My experience with him has been an absolute nightmare.
Keith has greatly neglected my case. He always says he will do xyz in ___ amount of time, (without even being prompted to give a timeframe) then he never does. Instead he will take weeks or even months longer than he says he will. This led to me having to call frequently to see when he was finally going to do what he’d say he would, which I’m sure was by design since they charge you $225 per phone call and he won’t answer emails… Yet, he wouldn’t call back when I’d leave voicemails either, so I learned his schedule real quick because I refuse to be ignored.
He didn’t advocate for me at all when it came to getting alimony (even though I was a stay at home mom at the time of divorce), getting assets in my name (so I lost 2/3 vehicles we had and the one I have isn’t even in my name so I can’t sell it), nor for better child support (please tell me how $240 a month is enough for 3 children in this economy when our incomes are so different)… Pretty sure he didn’t believe me when I told him I was leaving an abusive situation and was terrified…
I ended up homeless and in a hotel for awhile and faced constant fear of living on the streets for a year and a half… I asked for him to help me get full custody of my youngest until she was done breastfeeding since she was only 8 months old. He didn’t even bring up the topic in court. So I had to give up breastfeeding and listen to my daughter scream cry for me when I’d give her to her dad.
I filed some motions on my own but they’d get denied because it wasn’t from my lawyer… So I’d fill them out then make him file, and once he “filed incorrectly” then waited until after the weekend to fix it even though he said he’d fix it right away…
I had to remind him to put my name change in the final divorce decree, as well as to give my ex a time limit for when I could receive the divorce money. It’s a good thing I did too, or I’d have been totally screwed because my ex took MONTHS after his time limit was up… and Keith didn’t want to file for contempt (so I filled out the paperwork myself). The whole time it felt like Keith was advocating more for my ex than me.
The only reason I was able to get the money for Keith is because my grandpa gave me some of my inheritance money and he told me to get a good lawyer. I feel like I failed him by wasting money on this lawyer. My parents recommended I report him to the board for neglect on my case and I definitely will.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Joanne baron
Tim Jeffrey was absolutely great in helping us get through one of the most difficult times of our lives. I would highly recommend him for any of your legal issues. He is a competent, knowledgeable and skilled attorney. Thank you, Tim.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Nikki lindemann
Nick Wingert is an absolute god send. He is understanding, promp, hardworking and has gone above and beyond for my case and my overall wellbeing. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Not only is he a good lawyer, he's a good person. Thanks for everything Nick!!
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23 Nov, 2024 by Tammy wright
08 Nov, 2024 by Me me
terrible at his job, and yells
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29 Jan, 2025 by Nikki lindemann
Nick Wingert is an absolute god send. He is understanding, promp, hardworking and has gone above and beyond for my case and my overall wellbeing. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Not only is he a good lawyer, he's a good person. Thanks for everything Nick!!
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23 Nov, 2024 by Tammy wright
08 Nov, 2024 by Me me
terrible at his job, and yells
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25 Mar, 2024 by Db
We had a meeting and what I believed to be an agreement for them to move forward. They didn't and ghosted me. This resulted in financial harm to me.
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14 Mar, 2024 by B s
03 Jun, 2023 by Jeremey frost
Good experience
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21 Oct, 2024 by Tim ulferts
Rich Pazdernik will take your money and leave you worse off.
No communication. Early on I met with Rich and he would ask the same questions as if hearing the case for the first time. He never understood it and mixed up names and details in his filings.
Rich quickly turned into a ghost. I documented calling him 18 times over two months before he talked to me for a couple of minutes. I was kept in the dark for months at a time.
Rich never answers questions. He ignores you and does what he wants.
Rich will miss deadlines. I had to call and demand Rich file the Appearance and Answer to my case the day before it was due. I could have lost my case by default.
Ignores Conflicts of Interest. Rich was negligent in checking for conflicts of interest before taking my case. Rich waited 6 months then quit my case because he discovered he previously worked for the guy who is suing me.
Excessive fees. I had to demand a billing 4 times and it took him 25 days to produce. Rich agreed to work for $250/hour but he billed me at $300/hour. He has billing entries for when he was out of town on vacation. It’s also a strange that his billing matches the retainer that I paid him.
Rich left me in the lurch. He quit on me 10 days before Pretrial. He said he would find a replacement attorney and never did. I had to file my own Motion for Continuance to avoid trouble with the court.
New attorney agrees Rich did not provide competent service. I was told the work he did is full of mistakes and done incorrectly. I regret going to Rich Pazdernik, he has caused stress and wasted my time and money. Before writing this review I talked to Rich in good faith about a refund or partial refund. He just gaslights me.
Ethics complaints have been filed against Rich to the Iowa Attorney Disciplinary Board.
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09 Oct, 2022 by Jack b
Pazdernik has done some serious job... After all, he gives deferred judgments, even when there was no probable cause for E-X-T-O-R-T=I-O-N. As for a legal defense, you're better off defending yourself, that is, if you even are issued a summons. So how do you defend yourself from a crime you did not commit, when in an orange jacket? Get a real lawyer, like Mathahs. Take them out for racketeering. They constantly create delinquent debt cases even without crimes. They report people wrong, commit perjury and fraud without any real defense for themselves. If they've tried you wrongly, report them to the DOJ and FBI. 5 stars for reading.
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17 Aug, 2021 by Matthew simcox
Great law firm.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Kelly egen
Million dollar view. Great People. Huge Money Tree(arbacola).
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02 Dec, 2023 by Chas felton
29 Sep, 2023 by Joseph skow
Don't waste your time. Find an actual attorney.
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19 May, 2021 by Kris kinkead
Food is good, consistent every time.
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29 Mar, 2019 by Rex cook
11 Jul, 2016 by Dawn roberts
I have used Pete in the past and found him to be a very polite and patient person. He has a quick mind and you have to pay attention when he speaks , but who wants a slow thinker for an attorney ? Without his help and expertise I would have had a very bad situation turn out much worse.
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19 May, 2021 by Kris kinkead
Food is good, consistent every time.
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29 Mar, 2019 by Rex cook
11 Jul, 2016 by Dawn roberts
I have used Pete in the past and found him to be a very polite and patient person. He has a quick mind and you have to pay attention when he speaks , but who wants a slow thinker for an attorney ? Without his help and expertise I would have had a very bad situation turn out much worse.
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13 Feb, 2024 by Janelle ringger
19 Dec, 2023 by James smith
Not happy with the services. Robberts did not have my best interest , was only looking out for the money. trying to bog the process down in a bunch of expensive legal accounting work instead of doing what I ask when I finally question things she asked to withdraw as my lawyer.
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25 Feb, 2023 by Sarah thul
Very knowledgeable, thorough, and respectful. Ms. Robberts protects your best interests. She helps remove emotions during emotional matters to ensure the best outcome. I drive almost 2 hours for her representation. She (and her team) are the best and worth EVERY penny.
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12 Apr, 2023 by Debbie pietsch
My name is Debbie i have work with Mark and Chelsea. They have been most understanding with my issues and are very accomidating. I couldnt be happier with how personable they both were during my case i would highly recomend them. You two are amazing beautiful people thank you for everything.
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14 Apr, 2022 by Eric paxton
Wasn't very nice about my situation i have taxes from 2020 and now 2021 I can't even file cause I can't get no one to help nobody .. I can't get my 1099 from a stupid company .. so I can't file
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08 Aug, 2021 by Jermaine tyler
came on time make the SUV Looks real Good!
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07 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
This lady is something else never called me regarding my case then had a attitude because I kept calling her she was soooo rude and even hung up in my face I’m over it already I definitely wouldn’t recommend this lady for nothing
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21 May, 2021 by Anonymous
She was my court appointed attorney when my abusive ex husband (who was in jail) called my phone several times and I answered. Keep in mind even though I had a no contact order in place it was lifted for some stupid reason 3X his charges were completely dismissed where he was almost released prior to the state prosecution corrected it. But the jail was letting him dial out to my number because they claim P.O. was lifted. Because I answered the phone and the prosecuting attorney wanted my ex husband to plea he arrested me when I showed up to his court hearing to testify against him. So I ended up spending 17 days in jail for violating my own order of protection for a total of 12 counts which out of all those calls he was charged zero counts. Judge released me once I went before him and was shocked that I was in jail for violating my own order of protection. My attorney was absolutely NOT nice and rude to my family as well. Being appointed as my attorney I would have hoped she would have had an ounce of understanding of my situation but no. Felt like I was a habitual criminal who committed a heinous felony based on how I was treated. Who wants an attorney who judges us even though court appointed I am sure she does not have to take those kind of cases.
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15 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Jessica was appointed to me by the courts. From day one she came off as a prosecutor vs my defense attorney. She hardly listened to anything I had to say. She was very discouraging and frankly rude, mean and cold hearted. I do not believe that she worked in my best interest, nor am I happy with the outcome. I definitely would not recommend her as a defense attorney!!!
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02 Sep, 2024 by Elva wells
15 May, 2024 by Justin olson
Terrible lawyer that doesn't know a damn thing, doesn't do as you ask and then will blame everything on the client afterwards. Worse law firm I've ever dealt with, the main lawyer is extremely incompetent and always unprepared.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Katie
28 Nov, 2024 by Joe kelly
Extraordinary legal services from a team of attorneys with a wide range of specialties. They work diligently with clients to ensure they receive the best possible outcome. I've always found them timely, responsive and available for advice when needed. Highly recommend this family law firm.
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24 Jul, 2024 by 390xlt
useless should have represented myself
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20 May, 2024 by Unknown condon
Did a very good job on my case.
Yes it was not a fast settled case but was way better then these 1 star reviews state.
I think the 1 star negative reviews are from people looking for a payday and not getting what they thought they should.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Danielle peterson
Would not recommend at all for family law. Did not listen and is not an aggressive lawyer at all.
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09 Mar, 2024 by Brenda boyle (mema)
Great help me out on a lot of issues
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20 Sep, 2022 by Tyler gress
Did nothing for me. Never even met the guy.. my sisters went to him.. my sister's dropped him so he dropped me as a conflict of interest and I'm still being charged for nothing
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12 Sep, 2023 by David bentley
Unfortunately I have determined that this office is the furthest thing from helpful if it was another state then it would probably be better for employees dealing with work comp issues. But all I received from this office was "that sucks can't change the law good luck" which honestly was the last attempt at saving iowas legal system so iowa is an awful place to live as a lower wage employee. Most honest review I can give unfortunately.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Kristie williams
Very helpful lady on the phone. Pleasant
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03 Mar, 2023 by Jose morales
07 Jul, 2023 by John siano
Bah humbug
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22 Oct, 2021 by John pecora
Terrible experience! Not only was he extremely combative, in the courtroom he wasn't much help at all. The only thing that the judge had said to him was, and I quote, "Mr. Becker your mudding the waters." You're better off defending yourself. That's basically what I had to do. I'm not exaggerating in the least, as a matter of fact, it was all recorded by the stenographer.
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13 Mar, 2021 by Jeffrey “jeff” kiebler ii
John is a very straight forward person, he's not afraid to tell it as it is which is hard for any of us to hear. That though is the reason I'm giving him 5 stars, he puts his heart into every case he takes and expects the same in return.
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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.
