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Frank Stephan Cservenyak Jr., experienced Litigation, Personal Injury attorney in Joliet, IL with 25 reviews
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24,02
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4.0/5
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4.0
25 Reviews
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17 Jan, 2025 by J mares
I heard about this firm from listening to a local 1340 wjol radio station not knowing I would need an attorney but then I was involved in an accident so I reached out to this firm and probably one of the best decisions I could have ever made not only did they keep informed about everything that's going to be going on in contacting you from time to time let me know about the process and what needs to be done but what really touched me personally was our son passed away and the law firm sent flowers to my son's funeral I took it personally that these people really care about you not as a client but it just made me feel so good to know that these people cared and as far as the services they provide I would recommend this firm to anyone they take the time they sit with you to explain everything in detail Mr J. Stockman thank you for everything you did for me and the firm of Rathbun Cservenyak& Kozal
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24 Apr, 2024 by Mary genens
I was extremely pleased with RCK. Frank and his team worked very hard to get my case settled. And it was settled beyond my expectations. If you, or someone you know, is in need of a personal injury lawyer, Frank Cservenyak is the best!
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21 Feb, 2024 by Maureen bird-oberg
Thank you, Willard Hemsworth, for your professionalism, compassion and commitment to the end. Your office staff was great to work with, too.
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John C. Renzi, experienced Family Law, Personal Injury attorney in Joliet, IL with 5 reviews
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18,17
star star star star star
3.4/5
Avvo
3.4
5 Reviews
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02 Dec, 2021 by Kathleen
I hired John for a partition suit, which I was under the impression he had done these before but based on what I experienced I would say he hasn't done very many of them. It was agreed that I would pay my ex X amount of dollars to buy him out, a price that btw, I never agreed to prior to him offering it to my ex but agreed to it after he had already put it in writing. I also expected to get a clean quit claim deed which I did NOT. He never ran a title search to make sure there were no liens against my home which I later found out due to refinancing to get my ex's name off the house. It created so much stress, financial burden and time for me. He made sure to go to court for what my ex owed him but left me to fend for myself and did not deliver on the promises he made me for a clean title. This is still not over and I have tried to call to other attorney's there including June, and Jennifer Lynch with many email attempts as well and not once did anyone have to common courtesy to hear me out and try and learn what I am upset about. This has been an extremely stressful ordeal and they lack professionalism and John is never clear with what he is saying. I would never use them again or recommend them. I would actually tell you to run! So disappointed!
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18 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I was in world of hurt. I and the wife make good money, but there is never enough to go around. My debts were getting out of control and I was afraid I might lose my house. So I did some research and made the appointment with attorney Renzi. He looked over my finances and explained everything - including that because of the wages we made, we may not be able to file a chapter 7. He did a test on the computer, worked those numbers, and we were just able to avoid the mandatory chapter 13 repayment. It was close (as we were given a copy to review). As soon as we modify our mortgage, we will return to him for a chapter 7 bankruptcy. He even helped with the desired modification. He was so helpful! Even if the modification is denied, i am going back to hire him.
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12 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
He personally reviewed matters and met with me. Renzi explained everything and made sure that I fully disclosed matters (he either exempted or disclosed/explained away). The BK 7 proceeded to discharge without a hitch. He and staff were first rate. I was never worried or clueless and would not hesitate to recommend him
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Michelle Nevin Hansen, experienced Adoption, Criminal Defense attorney in Joliet, IL with 2 reviews
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16,29
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3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
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31 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Very poor representation throughout. Michelle did the bare minimum. Would definitely not recommend.
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12 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Came highly recommended (from a friend whose ex had actually used her services in their divorce). Very thorough and straight forward. Quick response time. Available to answer questions. Very happy with her services. I even referred a friend.
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Randal Jay Miller, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in Joliet, IL with 22 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,94
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3.5/5
Google Maps
3.5
22 Reviews
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18 Oct, 2024 by Don primozic
I had a consultation meeting with Nate a week ago and I was very impressed with his legal knowledge and guidance that he provided me. He is a great lawyer that you are lucky to have working for you. If I need future legal assistance, I will definitely reach out to Nate and reference him to friends when possible. Also, Nate projects himself as a very compassionate and caring lawyer, which is very reassuring.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Sam caty
Horrible experience with Kara and all staff, would not hire again.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Brandy s
I would give 0 stars if I could. Edward Jaquays was my ex’s attorney. We had a very amicable divorce. We agreed on everything, and Edward dragged out our case for almost a year solely to increase billable hours. Twenty k for an amicable divorce. Insane. He was one of the meanest people I’ve ever encountered, and it wasn’t because my ex and I disagreed about anything. He’s just a horrible rude person. Stay far away. **Edited to include response to The Law Offices of Edward R Jaquays' response** You do not need to know who I am. That isn't a requirement in order to leave a review of your service. Your statement regarding no "winners" in a divorce doesn't apply to my review specifically because my ex and I agreed on everything, therefore, nothing to "win." So please take your copy/paste responses somewhere else. I'm not sure why you are "confused" as to how your firm cost ME money. Please re-read my review. Where did I state you cost ME money? You didn't cost ME money. You charged my EX Twenty k for an amicable divorce, and I saw the bills. But I get it, you're just trying to discredit my review. You're an attorney's office and your morals are less than stellar while your main focus is your billable hours, so I am not surprised you are trying to discredit my review. I, nor my ex-husband, feel the need to spend our time on the phone complaining to you about your service. Our words will not change the way you operate, nor will it change your treatment of your future clients. The best thing we can do is help advise others of our experience, so your potential future clients know what your services truly entail. From reading these reviews, we are definitely not the only ones. Edward Jaquays specifically has quite the track record of the same exact experience we received. Not a nice word written about him in any of these reviews except by one person who, by your own account, only had a consultation with him. That in itself speaks volumes. AND CHECK OUT JAQUAYS' YELP REVIEWS!! HORRIBLE! DON'T HIRE HIM! Oh and one last thing. How does a law office not know the difference between were and we’re? You said “ We are a little confused how Mr. Jaquays and his firm cost you money as (you stated) we’re not our client.” It should have been “ We are a little confused how Mr. Jaquays and his firm cost you money as (you stated) WERE not our client.” A law firm should do better.
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Mark W. Rigazio, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Joliet, IL with 25 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,49
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3.4/5
Google Maps
3.4
25 Reviews
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21 Nov, 2024 by Robert reichardt
Referred to Jeff and Bryan by another lawyer! Non-Responsive to phone calls, emails, etc. Jeff kept making reasons for why he couldn’t response! Even said he had talked to the other party… come to find out… they had no clue who was representing me! Find someone else! These are not your guys!
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07 Oct, 2024 by Adriana nevarez
I should have listened to the previous reviews. I ended up paying more than TWICE the amount, that’s the reason they charge hourly. Then if you dispute the fees they threaten to take you to court. My attorney showed up in a jean skirt and a nose piercing. They are so rude, hard to get a response from them, ONLY WHEN THEY ARE BILLING YOU THEY RESPOND IMMEDIATELY.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Julie arinaga
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David A. June, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Joliet, IL with 4 reviews
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14,97
star star star star star
2.7/5
Avvo
2.7
4 Reviews
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18 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Hired this attorney for a child support/alimony case. Took a $2000 retainer telling me that should cover things. Later received a bill for an additional $1300. When I asked what the additional bill was for he quickly sent me a court document threatening a judgment if I didn’t pay. I’m still waiting on clarification from him regarding items that were poorly handled on his end during the case no return call in the last several months guess it’s time to get a new lawyer.
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12 Sep, 2017 by Kathy
Andy is very pleasant to speak and work with. I currently have an issue with a disclosure issue on a real estate transaction that he handled for me and he drafted the initial letter at no cost to me. Can't beat that!
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24 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
We have used Andy services for several different Marrero from family law to real estate transactions. Andy is a very friendly gentleman that will do right by his clients. He has handled every matter we have presented him with in a Professional manner. We have been clients for 7 years now, and feel we have made the right choice in an attorney to handle our sometimes complicated issues.
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Jeffery John Tomczak, experienced Criminal Defense, Medical Malpractice attorney in Joliet, IL with 12 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
14,67
star star star star star
2.6/5
Avvo
2.6
12 Reviews
star star star star star
08 May, 2021 by Anonymous
How is this piece of S#%T allowed to even practice law....constant lies & misrepresentations in the fox case. You should be in prison
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07 May, 2021 by Chad
Save yourself the heartache, headache and money. Don’t hire this guy, find someone else!
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11 Dec, 2020 by Dan
This law group saved me. Long story short I was in a situation to which there was an active warrant for me and jail time and my lawyer at the time basically swore to me that there was nothing to do and that I would most likely have to serve jail time. Panicking i had a shot in the dark to find someone that can maybe help so I reached out to tomczak law. They were able to quash my warrant and have all charges dropped. Not to mention the quick responsiveness with them all. Very streamlined process to hire them etc etc. Money well spent.
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Ragan Renee Freitag, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Joliet, IL with 8 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
14,14
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2.5/5
Avvo
2.5
8 Reviews
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16 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Superficial, fake, into herself, only cares about herself, always late, thinks she’s Gods gift to all. I wouldn’t go hire her again. She’s a horrible person.
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24 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
As my hired attorney a few of the bad experiences I had with her was that she was always late, by hours too not just minutes. Once she even disappeared completely at the courthouse! Failed to follow through on some matters. Very disappointed.
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27 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I was introduced to Ragan through mutual acquaintances. Before my consultation, I did a bit of research and discovered that Ragan is not only an attorney by trade. The immediate impression I took away from her skill set is that Ragan also has a strong belief in bettering her community being an elected official of the Will County Board. Regarding my case: Ragan is extremely professional, punctual and empathizes with her clients' needs. Though my particular case may not have been ruled in my favor, at no point did Ragan offer any false hope or presumptions based on past experiences. She tells it like it is, and is willing to serve (and fight for) her client's best interests. Ragan is heavily involved in her occupation and the community in which she serves--a real Class Act!! Though we met on such strange circumstances, it did not change the fact that Ragan is one of the most down-to-earth individuals with which I have had the pleasure of knowing. Thank you for representing me.
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Cosmo J. Tedone, experienced Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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John Matthew Spesia, experienced Car Accident, Personal Injury attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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William Robert Cassian, experienced Car Accident, Medical Malpractice attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Michael Anthony Santschi, experienced Government, Litigation attorney in Joliet, IL with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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09 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I've spoken to many prospective attorneys and this guy has by far been the rudest I've ever spoken to. People want attorneys that are down to earth and PERSONABLE. Nobody wants a lawyer that demeans them and talks to them like they're an idiot. I'm already in an extremely stressful situation due to no fault of my own and this man could care less about that. He tried to tell me that what our past lawyer did for us wasn't accurate. I know EXACTLY what was done to me and it is illegal. Now my anxiety is worse than it was before the call. What a disgusting experience.
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Thomas John Manzella Jr., experienced Personal Injury, Workers Compensation attorney in Joliet, IL with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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15 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
He did a work comp injury for me. Never did much and kept trying to talk me into a smaller settlement. Always got the feeling I was unimportant. A good lawyer could have gotten more. My settlement was nowhere near what he told me in my initial consultation. Feel like I was lied to. Wouldnt even meet with me to give me the check. Smooth talker be warned.
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Kurt G. Beranek, experienced Mediation, Personal Injury attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Kayode Rasheed Idris, experienced Personal Injury attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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William V. Kozol, experienced Litigation, Personal Injury attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Ashley Erin Bechtold, experienced Government, Litigation attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Kathy M. Sons, experienced Litigation, Personal Injury attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Barbara Morton, experienced Divorce, Estate Planning attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Joshua D. Farrell, experienced Family Law, Medical Malpractice attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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4,00
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Wayne Johnson, experienced Bankruptcy, Criminal Defense attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Daniel Walsh, experienced Criminal Defense, DUI / DWI attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Thomas P. Polacek, experienced Employment / Labor, Personal Injury attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Robert Peter Grometer, experienced Estate Planning, Litigation attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Jacob Edward Gancarczyk, experienced Business, Car Accident attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Jeffrey Scott Taylor, experienced Business, Government attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Michael Gahan, experienced Litigation, Personal Injury attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Luis J. Magana, experienced Personal Injury, Workers Compensation attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Susan E. Fransen, experienced Medical Malpractice, Personal Injury attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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Robert J. Baron, experienced Appeals, Personal Injury attorney in Joliet, IL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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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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