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09 Sep, 2024 by Alexander zhigalin
I had a great experience with Michael. He handled my issue professionally and in a timely manner. I would highly recommend him.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Krish puri
He’s an awesome lawyer.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
A few years ago I was involved in a serious car accident while working as a delivery driver. I was looking for a lawyer and Mr. Marabondo was recommended to me by a family friend who also is from Jersey City and had Sal as his lawyer for many years and won cases. I wasn't sure how everything was going to go at first or if my case would win. But Sal told me about the law and how everything would progress and now that everything is over I am very happy. I had him represent my case. Sal and his staff were so very kind and helpful to me for all the troubles along the road. I am very happy that I had Sal represent me and I'm sure you will be happy with him too. He won my case and for that I and my family are very grateful!
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4.5
2 Reviews
4.9
84 Reviews
09 Sep, 2024 by Alexander zhigalin
I had a great experience with Michael. He handled my issue professionally and in a timely manner. I would highly recommend him.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Krish puri
He’s an awesome lawyer.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Hugo luna
I personally recommend Michael Pastacaldi for his outstanding work on my very difficult case that no other attorney wanted to take on. He changed my life. I will forever be grateful.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Sharon wolffe
26 Nov, 2024 by Jessi rod
Highly recommended & very professional service. Thank you for all your help
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25 Nov, 2024 by Suhaily diaz
Was referred to Peter for my car accident csse. Him and his firm were great. They got me a full policy settlement. Do not hesitate to call them!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Alexander zhigalin
I had a great experience with Michael. He handled my issue professionally and in a timely manner. I would highly recommend him.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Krish puri
He’s an awesome lawyer.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Hugo luna
I personally recommend Michael Pastacaldi for his outstanding work on my very difficult case that no other attorney wanted to take on. He changed my life. I will forever be grateful.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Naseer h
I am grateful to Matsikoudis & Fanciullo, LLC, for their exceptional work handling my wife’s case. They demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and care, ensuring we were well-informed. The outcome of the case was very financially beneficial. Unfortunately, my wife did not live to see the result, but I sincerely appreciate the support and the positive outcome they secured for us.
Their tireless efforts made a significant impact, and I truly felt like they had our best interests at heart the entire time. Matsikoudis & Fanciullo are not just a legal representative; they became trusted allies in a challenging period of our lives. I am incredibly thankful for their expertise and the outcome they delivered, and I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking a committed and compassionate legal team.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Annmarie callahan
My lawyers negotiated a very advantageous out-of-court settlement for me, avoiding a long and costly trial. They were very compassionate and honest and explained every option very thoroughly. I highly recommend them.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Sharon brown
The legal team at Matsikoudis & Fanciullo, LLC is exceptional. They’re a niche firm that helped my family and I precisely the way we deserved to be helped. I especially appreciated how quickly and professionally the team managed a difficult matter.
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20 Dec, 2017 by Alice
I got my first moving violation ticket on a very busy 4th of July weekend. It was bumper to bumper traffic. The congestion was so bad a group of cars formed another lane. I only joined so I can make a left turn, away from the traffic. Unfortunately, a police officer stopped the group of cars that formed another lane. Forming another lane was illegal. I was so grateful for Attorney Abasolo to assist me. On the day I had to appear at court, the Judge granted a no moving violation with no points charged, as long as I pay the fee - just as Attorney Abasolo had advised me. I was relieved for Attorney Abasolo's helpful and professional solution to my ticket dilemma. Thank You, Attorney Abasolo.
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24 Apr, 2016 by Vanessa
I hired Mr. Abasolo's service for 2 evictions for non payment of rent. He was very dedicated and he managed to evict my tenants very quickly. He is very nice and will keep you posted at all times. Highly recommend him.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Karen midlaw
I am so grateful to Lizet Vazquez and Caitlyn Cournoyer at the Bhatt Law Group for their help so I could get a marriage license. My fiancé and I had planned a destination wedding in Key West and had guests flying and driving from different areas to celebrate our special day. We were at city hall in Key West to get our marriage license and unbeknownst to us, we needed the date of our divorces from our previous marriages. Mine was more than 20 years ago and I could not remember the exact date and my solo attorney had since passed. I called the Bhatt Law Group in Jersey City and Lizet said she would get an attorney to go to the court house to find the records. I was panicked at the thought of not getting the date and thus not being able to get a valid marriage license. The following day I received a call from Caitlyn, an attorney at Bhatt Law Group, with the docket number and date of the divorce. My fiancé and I were able to obtain the marriage license and have a beautiful wedding. I am so thankful to Lizet and Caitlyn at the Bhatt Law Group for all they did to help me.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Bhavika sharma
Mr. Vitaliy Lunyk I had a great experience they helped me with my case.
Good service they did everything for me were so nice
Helpful people. Thank you 5 stars 🙏
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21 Nov, 2024 by Ricardo beltre
They were very helpful today. I needed a copy of a document and they were able to help me and didn't charge me a penny.
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08 May, 2024 by Richard oguku
Mr. Freeman represented me quite professionally with my cases, beginning with custody and child support, and finally with Divorce and Alimony. In all cases, he was very successful. He explained the possible outcomes prior to committing to represent.
His writings on all cases was thorough, and pointed. I could understand every aspect of his presentation as written by mr. Freeman.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Zaki
Spoke with mr.Brian on the phone for consultation and he was able to provide me with great information with and provided me with great advice and I'll definitely make him handles my case
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29 Mar, 2024 by Matthew
Brian Freeman is an experienced and qualified in Family and Landlord Law. I recently had the privilege of being represented by Brian in a complex landlord legal matter, and I cannot express enough gratitude for his exceptional service and expertise provided. He has a deep understanding of what initially a very daunting situation for me and he helped me to navigate the issue with clarity. His confidence, dedication and understanding was so reassuring.
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23 May, 2021 by Kiara
I walked into John's office one day after finding out that my landlord was charging me more than the legal rent-controlled rent. John was incredibly well versed in landlord-tenant law, rent control in particular, and immediately filed a lawsuit for treble damages under the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act. We ultimately prevailed and I recovered more than three times the amount that I was overcharged, plus all of my attorney fees. I am very satisfied with John's high level of service, expertise, and professionalism.
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22 Mar, 2021 by Maura
I first contacted John when I found out that my landlord had overcharged me for my rent-controlled apartment. He was very well versed in rent control law, and advised me to sue under the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act. In less than one year, the landlord paid me three times the amount that I was overcharged and all of my attorney fees. I highly recommend John for his knowledge, professionalism, efficiency, and trustworthiness.
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12 Jul, 2019 by Anita
He "owned" my issue. He negotiated for me. He made sure I came out as ahead as I could. Would definitely use again. Very nice guy.
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08 Jul, 2023 by Sheila
I highly recommend Diana Lakic's legal services to all who are seeking legal advise. The services and advice Diana's firm provided for me was professional, personal and timely. All the treatments I received was the best and professional as well. I strongly recommend her services.
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21 Nov, 2017 by Woodrow
Diana showed a lot of concern for my well being and injuries due to my accident. She took time to explain things to me clearly. She was very attentive to my needs as pertaining to getting me into therapy right away. She also moved expeditiously to get my case, medical bills, car repairs resolved.
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05 Oct, 2017 by Rafael
When I had my car accident, I contacted Diana Lakic and explained my situation. She truly is the most professional lawyer I have ever had. She always explained everything I needed to know about my case and answered any and every questions without making me feel stupid like other lawyers I have dealt with. She was very honest and kept me updated with my case throughout the whole year it went on for. Not only was she on point but she got me a great settlement. I really thought I had no case since the vehicle that hit me, backed up into my car, I sustained some injuries but had no hope of any compensation, she gave me hope and at the end I got a better than I expected settlement. I will always recommend Diana to anyone who needs a lawyer for accident related cases.
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24 Jun, 2019 by L. jackson
I would just like to say that I am truly grateful to Mr. Reinartz for representing my Dad. i was looking for someone who would do a great job and he definitely went above and beyond that. Mr. Reinartz did a great job and his level of compassion and concern for his clients were evident by the way he treated my dad. He worked hard from start to finish and communicated what was going on with the case. I could not have gotten a better attorney to represent my dad and I would Highly Recommend Mr. Reinartz.
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11 Apr, 2019 by Willis
Great overall experience.
Richard from day one was, caring, thoughtful and most important diligent at task at hand.
My situation was Medical Malpractice which from what I heard from every other attorney is not easy to prove, but we walked away with a very fair settlement. Thank you Rich for making it happen!!!
I would definitely recommend The Reinartz Law Firm to friends and family.
Give them a try. You won’t be disappointed..
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10 Mar, 2019 by Alan and mary
Rich is the ultimate professional. Very calm, soothing and excellent explaining the process from start to finish and what to expect. I wouldn't change a thing. He guided us every step of the way. We were fortunate to find Rich.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Muhammad
If you're searching for a lawyer who goes above and beyond for their clients, look no further than John Allegra. They are truly a five-star legal powerhouse!"
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27 Nov, 2023 by Marshall
John Allegra is by far the best lawyer in America! He is honest and an incredible lawyer. His office is large and comfortable. His ability to win a case is great! He is highly intelligent and a genius as well.
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27 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Attorney John Allegra is an excellent lawyer. Mr. Allegra works very hard for his clients. I can testify to that. He dedicates 100% of his time to your case and works very hard to get the best settlement for you. He’s a no nonsense attorney and fights hard for you, his client. I believed in him when he represented me and I was extremely satisfied with the result of my settlement. So I would recommend him anytime. He’s a five star in my book.
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09 Apr, 2019 by Stephanie
I contacted Koles, Burke & Bustillo,L.L.P because the firm I was using prior had made so many mistakes on my case.
I couldn't get appointments with physical therapists, doctors or anything else - the firm wouldn't even get back to me when I called, this went on for so long and i had enough.
The week I hired Raoul Bustillo he was like a whirlwind. He took over my case and got things done right away! That week I was going to PT and to the right doctors. He had changed the whole case around in my favor. I was so stressed out before and when he took over I was able to relax and rely on my new attorney to work on my behalf and work for me instead of feeling like i was doing everything and someone else would get paid.
I am so happy and satisfied at the job that was done for me. What a wonderful firm! This is a firm that puts you at ease and fights for you.
I would refer Raoul Bustillo, and anyone else in this firm to everyone how needs it. I am even using this firm for a different case and fully confident with them.
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23 Nov, 2017 by Officer john a.
Raoul Bustillo is an outstanding person and an excellent Attorney. He worked on my workers compensation case. From the moment I met with him I knew he took my case seriously. He was totally invested in my case the entire time. He answered all my questions and was always just a phone call or text away.
He made sure I was compensated for my injuries. If you are looking for a top notch Attorney look no further. I am proud to recommend my Attorney, Raoul Bustillo.
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18 Nov, 2017 by Gallego erik and gallego raabe
Dear Raul Bustillo Thank you for representing me in my legal matter with Workers Compensation . It was a stressful situation but you were always there. You fought extremely hard for me and I am very pleased with the outcome. I received more than I expected. You are truly a blessing and I can't thank you enough.
By Gallego's
By Gallego's
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09 Apr, 2023 by Thomas downes
My Name is Tom Downes and Jeff represented me in a long intense Court case . He worked hard for me and his Great Professionalism gave me a Great Outcome. I highly Recommend Jeffery Garrigan. No Doubt one of the State of New Jersey. Sincerely, Tom Downes
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26 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
I would be the first to recommend Jeff as a lawyer if you want someone who goes above and beyond. He takes the time to make sure you understand things through every step of the case. Additionally, you can tell with how thorough he is that he has the experience necessary to help get you the best possible outcome. My family and I are extremely grateful and blessed to have had an amazing lawyer like Jeff represent us, and we truly believe that we would not have gotten the same outcome without Jeff’s hard work and dedication.
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09 Dec, 2011 by Anonymous
if you ever wanted to feel at ease and understand the law when your mind is going in one million directions...Jeff Garrigan is your new lawyer...great reputation with his peers, judges, prosecuters, etc...great guy all around...Jeff knows the law...every stone turned over twice and if you ask him to turn it over again he does with a smile...very tactical...very informative...can be agressive when need arises...does not nickel and dime you either...very black and white with jeff he is never in the grey...jeff saved my life and my families life with little disruption...trust me meet jeff and you will see for yourselves what i am talking about...
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28 Oct, 2013 by A.l.
Jon is an outstanding attorney. He settled my case in about a year and never lost sight of what my goals and concerns were as a client. He always kept me informed and was patient when explaining the litigation process. Also, his staff was always available by e-mail or phone. I highly recommend him!
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01 Jul, 2013 by Bianca
Mr. Koles was very attentive, helpful and professional. If I needed him, he was always there. Great communication. He was there every step of the way to explain everything thoroughly. If I didn’t understand he would make it clear. I appreciate everything he has done for me. He did an awesome job representing me and my case.
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01 Jul, 2013 by Diane
Our general overview of our experience with Attorney Koles and his law firm is one of great admiration and respect. They are truly a professional and experienced group that will act solely in your behalf and in your best interest. They have a knowledge of the law that leaves the client with a trust that their case will be handled in the best way by the best group of attorneys.
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28 May, 2020 by Adam
I can’t say enough good about Mekhail and what he’s done for me and my family. Truly a great lawyer and an even better man.
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26 May, 2020 by Phillip
Meekha is the best. You can’t get any better then him. He closed 3 houses for me with an ease. Made it simple and guided me through it all. Highly recommend.
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26 May, 2020 by Omar
This lawyer was nothing short of amazing. I had a charge for a drug offense, the prosecutor offered me a deal but my lawyer knew I was in the right, he turned down the deal and ended up getting my case dismissed. I highly recommend Mekhail Sarofiem to be hired as your attorney.
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24 Aug, 2018 by Melissa
She took on our case. She kept us informed on everything. And she was straight up. I would recommend Coco to everyone I know. Thanks once again for going above and beyond our case.
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15 Nov, 2014 by Andrew
Zijian Guan was a fantastic lawyer who kept me well informed while I was a plaintiff on a large case. I had such an awful experience with my previous employer, I thought I would never find closure. Zijian Guan got me the money, justice, and closure I deserved. Thank you Zijian Guan for helping me have the last laugh.
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11 Feb, 2013 by Jennifer
Being involved in litigation is, often times, troubling and stressful for the client. Zijian Guan put my mind at ease from the beginning. First and foremost, she is courteous and patient. Miss Guan took time to listen to me and understand my frustrations and complaints. I never felt rushed. She took great care in attention to detail and making sure she understood every aspect of my case. In addition, she had the intellegence, knowledge and fortitude necessary to take my information and use it to benefit my case and bring settlement to fruition. Honesty and integrity permeates her personality and excellent work ethic and I was, over all, very, very pleased to be represented by such fine counsel.
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08 Jul, 2016 by Kevin
Francis Dorrity and his staff made us feel incredibly comfortable and treated my family's case with the utmost care. They kept us informed during the entire process and went above and beyond to make the best outcome possible. This was one of the most stressful times in our lives. There were many obstacles to overcome in our case but the extensive experience of Dorrity Law Office gave them the ability to meet the challenges head on, winning us a favorable decision. I would recommend them to anyone with a serious injury caused by another person.
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08 Apr, 2016 by Tom
Thank you Francis and Tracey! My trial was handled brilliantly and efficiently. The entire office worked hands on around the clock to ensure nothing but the best. The dedication to my case and devotion to my family was evident every step of the way. We will forever be grateful to you both for your professional guidance and personal compassion. You were always one step ahead, clever and prepared for whatever challenges came our way. Thank you.
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01 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
Adam is a competent lawyer. Not only did he do a great job, he was very caring and made sure I understood all aspects of my case. Adam made sure that he and his staff were always available for me. Adam is a winner and has a never give up attitude. I would highly recommend Adam to anyone searching for an attorney.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Mm
I cannot express enough how satisfied I am with the exceptional legal services provided by Triunfel Law Firm. Rafael Triunfel (Ralph), the attorney handling my case, was nothing short of outstanding. His extensive knowledge of the law, combined with his deep understanding of the New Jersey court system, gave me complete confidence from the start. Ralph took the time to carefully explain every aspect of the case, valuing my input while offering insightful guidance based on his vast experience and knowledge from similar cases. His skill in negotiations is remarkable, and he consistently made me feel supported and comfortable throughout the entire process.
Ralph’s dedication is perfectly complemented by his incredible team, including Miryann and Danielle. Miryann, the Manager and Paralegal, is equally knowledgeable and always ready with quick, accurate responses to any legal questions I had. In fact, Miryann is nothing short of a lawyer herself, given her depth of legal knowledge and understanding of the law. She, along with Danielle, was extremely helpful and accessible, ensuring I never felt alone throughout the process. Together, they make an efficient and compassionate team, consistently available to address any concerns, no matter how big or small.
I am beyond grateful to Ralph, Miryann, and Danielle for their unwavering support and expertise. They truly care about their clients and work seamlessly together to deliver the best possible results. If you're seeking a highly skilled, client-focused law firm in New Jersey, I wholeheartedly recommend Triunfel Law Firm. They will be my go-to for any future legal needs.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Steven reason
03 Jan, 2025 by Natacha vincent
I was involved in a lengthy trial and, after searching extensively, I came across this law firm. From the initial consultation to the final resolution, I was kept well-informed with clear explanations of every step and decision made in my case. My lawyer, Joseph M. Szesko, was highly engaged and ensured I was updated on any developments or changes. Exceptional service was provided throughout the entire process. I highly recommend asking for Joseph M. Szesko for outstanding legal representation.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Danielle ellis
25 Nov, 2024 by Lydia gordon
What an AWESOME TEAM. Boccia is the best. Very professional and compassionate towards the clients needs. I could not have picked a better attorney.
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15 Jan, 2025 by James brittingham
14 Jan, 2025 by Carol nieves
11 Jan, 2025 by B b
26 Jul, 2023 by Anna
He is very loyal and excellent with his work he is doing his best and results are very positive.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Teona
Mr. Vincent is a very educated and hardworking person. You will never be just a "case" for him.. He will solve your problems while you are drinking your coffee :)) Highly recommended!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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17 Jan, 2023 by Sajjad
Vincent is great attorney, very knowledgable and approachable and honest.
He handled a complicated case for me and I got desired results, I highly recomend Vincent !
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16 Oct, 2020 by Joe
Kerollos is the best lawyer I have ever met! Not only does he put his clients first but he treated me like a brother and he made sure I got the justice that I deserved. If you're not working with Kerollos you're with the wrong guy. He's the best one out there and he's the only one I'm ever going to call when I need help, and so should you.
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03 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Kero Antoun is one of the best attorneys around. He took my case to trial and got an outright dismissal. When we were first appearing in court he wouldn’t even entertain a plea offer. I was really scared at first but he kept telling me to trust him. He had evidence disproving the state’s case and set the matter for trial. He put the cop on the stand and he couldn’t identify me as I was not the one driving the vehicle. His aggressive approach really works. I have referred all my family and friends to him. All similar outcomes. This guy is the real deal.
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10 Sep, 2019 by Jerry
Attorney Gott took my case, no,other lawyer would ...I was hit by a car while crossing outside the crosswalk but Mr. Gott took my case and he was a bull dog from day one ... he took the case to trial and the defense ended up paying a large seven figure amount to me Becuase of his hard work.
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20 Oct, 2020 by Bernadette
He is a wonderful attorney helped me through a very difficult time. Truly cares about his clients.
I highly recommend him if you need help in a workers comp situation.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Steven reason
19 Jun, 2017 by David ciancio
I had previously written a negative review about an experience with this firm. Since then Jason himself worked to understand, review & rectify the scenario. Ultimately I did not end up retaining their firm but they have since earned my respect for being honest, customer centric and intelligent.
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29 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Jason couldn't accept my case but handled all my questions professionally and pointed me in the right direction and made my situation less daunting to handle.
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10 Apr, 2017 by David ciancio
Rushed through the discovery with me. I asked if they had thought through my case and had any questions. They said no and pushed for me to sign document to retain their services. Once document was signed, they asked for all evidence and information on the case. Only after they read through everything, then they called to reject my case. Was a complete, unnecessary waste of time that could've been avoided by doing the proper discovery instead of rushing to confirm my business.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Robert howe
I have one of the best lawyers in town, it took less than two years to complete my case. Thank you so very much. You are number one thank you.
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03 May, 2024 by Todd lent
Awesome job! Thank you!
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04 Apr, 2024 by Robyn sinopoli
Attorney Carbone is professional, knowledgeable, understanding and diligent. He is intelligent and listens carefully to what you have to say. He is definitely the lawyer you want on your side fighting aggressively on your behalf. Many thanks to Attorney Carbone for his resilience and perseverance in supporting his client to the most favorable outcome
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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.
