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04 Nov, 2023 by English
This guy is absolutely pathetic!
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13 Apr, 2022 by Misty russell
Smart ellics to people.
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24 Oct, 2019 by Sam rodgers
I was in a car wreck this summer and I hurt my back and neck. Mr Hartsoe was able to help me out tremendously. He recommended a great chiropractor to help me with physical therapy, he kept me up to date on my case with weekly phone calls, and we were able to settle for much more than I hoped for. Mr. Hartsoe can help you; I would recommend him to my family and friends if they ever needed an attorney.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Bill cathcart
As an attorney, Ryan has been an invaluable resource to me in navigating the probate process in Knox County. He has gladly taken the time to listen to my concerns, answer my questions, and even provide necessary forms. I would whole-heartedly recommend Ryan to anyone needing assistance with a will or probating an estate. He is a good guy and he knows his stuff.
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01 Jun, 2023 by Alfredo arias
17 Oct, 2022 by Deirdre
What can I say about Ryan Shamblin? His representation was impeccable. His insight and ability to legally guide and recommend the path of least resistance and uncertainty towards a most successful outcome in my real estate contractual blunder was something to admire. Frustrating at times because I wanted to go in with guns blazing because afterall I was right. However, his insight on how the scales of give and take in the realm of law and mediation actually work. His ability to communicate without arrogance was also admirable. Lawyers can be arrogant but not Ryan. He is educated, patient, and kind along with a great personality. His approach informs you about the law and its uncertainties and that winning isn't always scot-free. Needless to say; we won a case no one else would dare venture but not without paying the piper. I wish he was specialized in all areas of the law because he is a keeper!
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01 Sep, 2023 by Olivia henry
Glenna Overton-Clark is a wonderful lawyer. She responded to all of my phone calls and emails and handled my case with ease. I did not have to worry that my situation will be dealt with by Ms Overton-Clark. thank you for taking care of me when other lawyers turned their backs.
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02 Jun, 2023 by Jared heart
Glenna has been a great asset to our company. She is reliable, intelligent, and gets the job done! I highly recommend her
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23 May, 2023 by Jan mcelroy
Glenna has provided legal services for me and my family for several years. She is a good listener and provides professional service in a personal way. She is thorough, knowledgeable and informative. Whenever we have needed her assistance, she is attentive, patient and we never feel rushed. Highly recommend Glenna!
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29 Feb, 2024 by M. l.
Attorney Roger Hyman may know law, but in my meeting with him he was arrogant and insulting. Although no-one likes hearing they don’t have a case, his manner destroying it was scornful, antagonistic, humiliating and shocking. Just the day before, another attorney in the firm believed I had a strong case and set up the appointment. Because of this, I wasn’t prepared for his almost combative attitude from the very first minute.
When I tried to give him a brief overview of my case, saying it would only take a couple minutes to read my notes, he didn’t want to hear it. He began firing questions and appeared pleased when I was startled. He discredited every key element of an expert’s 29-page damage report. When I tried to protest, he cut me off by saying I wasn’t listening. I felt like I was on a witness stand being interrogated by an attorney representing the other party.
I am 80 years old. Over the several decades of my life I have worked with attorneys on numerous matters. I have never before written a complaint review, but this consultation, for which I paid a fee, was the most sickening I’ve ever experienced.
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21 Dec, 2015 by Gary
Me and my business partner have used Mr. Hyman for a long period of time and he has always provided excellent representation at all times. Mr. Hyman has promptly responded to all request and has been very effective in Court when our case went on Trial. Mr. Hyman, his partners, and staff have all treated us very professional. Everyone has been so professional and effective projecting an atmosphere of professionalism.
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21 Dec, 2015 by Rachel
I highly recommend Mr. Hyman. I had been trying to finalize a divorce for ten years after my husband left the State. Mr. Hyman began working on my case immediately after I hired him and was able to finalize my divorce quickly and efficiently. I am so glad I went to this attorney
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05 Jan, 2024 by Kelly helton
Excellent law firm!
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08 Jul, 2022 by Charlie moore
20 Aug, 2020 by Susan summers
23 Aug, 2024 by Dolores monroe
Ms. Clark made us so comfortable right from the beginning. She listened to us, answered every question we had & put us at ease immediately. She was very knowledgeable, direct & did exactly as she stated to us. We felt as if she truly had our back & it was such a huge relief! If we ever need a lawyer again, she'll be the 1st one we call on for assistance. Thank you Ms. Clark!
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14 Jul, 2024 by Brudda
Helped with divorce and most importantly child custody with a parent trying to use the children as pawns. She fights for what's best for the children; not what the parents want. Ms. Barbara Clark is awesome
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19 Dec, 2023 by Teresa porter
She has done much for me and my family. Her excellence and knowledge has served us well.
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05 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
showed lack of concern and indifference with my case, Was paid two months prior to case and failed to show concern until the last minute. Mainly concerned about getting his payment. Very cold and unfeeling.
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16 Feb, 2015 by Tammy
Thomas Parker handled my divorce matter. He was very knowledgeable about my rights and gave me excellent advice during the process. He kept me informed and was prompt and responsive to all my questions. He is a very honest and caring person. I highly recommend Thomas Parker for those who are looking for an attorney to represent them.
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16 Feb, 2015 by June
Thomas Parker has handled a couple of matters for me. He is a very knowledgeable and trustworthy lawyer. He was always professional and is someone that really cares about you. Mr. Parker is also very easy to talk to and understand. I would highly recommend Thomas Parker for any legal action.
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29 Apr, 2017 by Zoran
I got terrible motorcycle accident that crippled me in 2001 and that time l was customer of Roger Gilbert, famous Knoxville lawyer that dump my case telling me that " there is not enough money on the case" and that he can't do anything about that. I was desperate cause my hospital bill was $87000 and l had no insurance. Priest of my church recommended me Mike Nassios to help me. When Mike came to my hospital, which btw l spend 35 days, he said that he will try his best and if no success he will not charge me. Two years later and after a lot of struggle, he made me wealthy and compete satisfied and made my life more financially comfortable than before accident. His lions performance and warm human soul make me confident to recomand him to anyone, which I did and he never disappointed neither me neither clients that I referred to. To me his service is A+++
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20 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
He never seemed to stay on top of my case, it seemed he wanted my family to do his leg work. He was less aggressive than he needed to be & it almost seemed like he was scared to step out & do his job. We actually went out & met with folks that he should have been doing. He is way too slow getting info needed in my case, leaving us again to do the research.
2nd case scenario: auto accident-truck hit me as I was walking out of business-3 yes ago still he has Nothing for me.
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03 Jun, 2015 by Brittany
he is currently representing my husband in Loudoun County and is doing a great job I would recommend him highly he keeps you informed and tries his best to get you a good deal
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04 Apr, 2019 by Whitney lawrence
24 Aug, 2018 by Niki weaver
22 Dec, 2017 by Beverly brown
Excellent, moral, ethical attorney. Extends to all attorneys in office and their staff.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Larry mcleod
I will forever be grateful for Knoxville Family Law! They helped me get custody of my kids, and my ex’s lies were exposed. Thank you for all of your hard work and belief in the father.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Michael fortune
Blair Kennedy is great! You will be very happy with how she handles your case. Some attorneys are afraid to go to court but Blair thrives in an adversarial environment. She will fight for you!
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03 Oct, 2023 by Susan s.
Blair is an amazing lawyer. She is so smart and worked very hard on my case. We won thanks to her.
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28 Jul, 2024 by Leah
My name is Leah Marsh and I wanted to take a moment and recommend my attorney David Boyd. He did a great job for me in my divorce. He fought hard for me to obtain alimony from my cheating husband and even uncovered hidden bank accounts that I didn't even know about!
I could not recommend him more!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Coleen
I wanted to take a brief moment and recommend Attorney David Boyd. He is a fighter and he fought for me during my divorce. He is expensive, but for me, he was worth it and I would use him again (heaven forbid I marry another egotistical narcissist like my ex!).
Make an appointment and evaluate him for yourself.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Jack
It is my pleasure to leave a brief review for Attorney David Boyd. He is aggressive both in court and when he deals with other lawyers, believe me for I've seen him in action.
Expensive, yes. Effective, absolutely.
If you are in need of legal help, he should be your first call. Visit with him and make your mind up for yourself.
Jack Butler, Jr.
Gatlinburg, TN
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07 Jun, 2024 by Daniel patru
Andrew Harrison gave us several options that we had not known about. With his help, we ended up with a simpler, better solution that saved us a lot of money.
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05 Feb, 2024 by Charles archer
Never return calls
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07 Dec, 2023 by Jessica hildebrand
07 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Brown agreed to represent me for two separate traffic offenses and gave me a slightly reduced rate ($500 for both). However, he instructed me to go ahead and pay the original higher rate ($300) for the first ticket he had already billed me for and then he sent a second bill for $200, which I also paid in good faith.
The result of Mr. Brown's representation for the speeding ticket was disappointing. He was only able to get the speed reduced slightly and the court costs reduced accordingly, but I still wound up with three points against my license and over a hundred dollars in court costs on top of what I paid him!
It has been a number of years since I needed a traffic attorney, but back when I drove cross country and picked up an occasional speeding ticket, they were always able to get the ticket dismissed. Mr. Brown's excuse was that the court in Alcoa was very hard line on speeding tickets. But when he voiced his apprehension about being able to effectively represent me for the second ticket where the other driver actually struck me, I began to wonder whether this guy knows what he's doing. I've had a few traffic attorneys represent me over the years and this is the first time I ran into one who considered himself ineffective.
When I expressed my concern, he abruptly withdrew from my case, but said he will only refund $200 instead of the $250 we had agreed to when he agreed to represent me for the second traffic offense. Not only do I feel duped by an attorney who is clearly ineffective, I feel ripped off by an obvious con artist.
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13 Jan, 2015 by David
These days its hard to trust a lawyer and know where to turn Mr. Brown took a case when others wouldn't he wasn't about money he was about the pursuit of justice and saved my life he showed zeal and showed that real lawyers exsist in life who still care about the law and what it stands for.
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10 Apr, 2012 by Deanna
I presented my case to Alexander which was a small claims case. He took it very serious and immediately began contacting necessary parties upon receiving all my information. Alexander kept in close contact with updates on the case as they happened. Alexander always returned my calls in a timely manner. Alexander asked me to collect specific paperwork regarding my case and then did all the communication with the other parties which made it very easy on me. I would highly recommend anyone to seek Alexander's expertise.
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29 Nov, 2019 by Robert
Got me my benefits for disability after two other lawyers failed. His staff was friendly and always available.
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19 Nov, 2019 by Ty
He came to my house about 75 min away. Staff kept me informed! These guys are awesome.
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10 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired this firm to file an SSDI claim. I was wounded in Afghanistan and eligible for expedited SSDI claims processing. In attempting to communicate this to the staff representatives when I filed my claim and in subsequent phone conversations. I was told the firm was not familiar with the Wounded Warrior expedited process and I would need to handle that myself. In an effort to explain the provision the lady I spoke with identified herself as an attorney but then refused to answer my question and passed me off the a supervisor. I informed him that she had identified herself as an attorney and was rather rude. He assured me she had not identified herself as attorney when clearly she had. The end of the conversation was the same. I would need to handle my situation directly with the SSA and the firm could not help me. If you are veteran/wounded warrior I would be very cautious about engaging this firm.
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22 Feb, 2018 by Lee
I went to Bill with a pretty bad contract problem that I had been trying to get fixed for several years. Bill really listened to everything I said, and then really worked hard on it. He was able to work it out in just the way I had hoped. I will definitely use him again when I need a good lawyer!
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12 Sep, 2017 by Scott
I recently had the pleasure of trying a case with Bill and I cannot say enough about his effort and preparation, He truly did a great job!
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16 Jun, 2016 by Tom
I hired Knoxvegas law and Attorney Bill Taylor to handle a very difficult child support case for me. For more than 3 years I have had money taken for child support by both TN and VA (where my ex lives). Although I have had custody of my daughter for more than 3 years, VA continued to intercept my taxes and TN kept trying to hold me in contempt for not paying and being in arrearage. Finally, yesterday.....Attorney Taylor showed the judge how I have overpaid child support owed and finally got it settled. The time and effort he put into my case got me the outcome I deserved. He is a great lawyer in my opinion.
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01 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
We retained Mrs Ogle for an important matter and was extremely disappointed in her representation. There were several times I reached out to find out the status on certain topics to no reply, ever. There were several things that she did not follow through with. I had several questions during our meeting and also the day of court and she literally told me “not now” or basically gave me a look that said shut up. She did not fight for the needs of our situation. The only time I felt confident in Mrs Ogle was when she was selling herself during the consultation. I regret hiring Mrs Ogle, she is not an aggressive attorney at all. Anyone looking to hire Mrs Ogle, I would look elsewhere. I have never written a review of any kind in my life but felt the need to save someone else from wasting their money.
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27 Jan, 2017 by Linde
I recently retained Mrs. Ogle to file divorce papers for me. She was a pleasure to work with. She did everything I asked in a timely and professional manner. Her rates were reasonable and I left satisfied with the time that it took and the end result. If you want someone on your side that doesn't make you feel like just another billable hour you would be remiss not to at least consult with her on your situation.
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10 Aug, 2022 by Peter
I hired Jim to represent me and my family after my home was destroyed by a mudslide due to negligent grading that failed done by my neighbor.. It has been 3.5 years and I have gotten every run around and excuse you can imagine from, being sick, to dad dying, to car accident, to being mugged, to being sick, to power being off at his office, to being on vacation, to having Covid, to being have a dental procedure done, to being in the hospital, and I am sure I am forgetting more. This Fraud took 10k from me that was money raised by a go fund me after my home was destroyed and my family almost killed and has done NOTHING for me in 3.5 years. I went to the courthouse and pulled my file to find that the judge had dismissed my case because of REPEATED failures to respond to the requests to the defendants and making categorically outrageous requests of the court. I am now beginning to work with the Bar to go after Jim Scott. and I recommend you ALL STAY AWAY from this charlatan !!!
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03 Apr, 2017 by Jeff
I can't thank Jim enough. I had a little too much to drink one night and made a mistake. I ended up getting pulled over and blew a 0.09 and was charged with a DUI. Jim was able to have my DUI dismissed. I did end up doing my fair share of community service, but I was more than happy to do.
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23 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Rachel Sanders Hurley is a kind and empathetic person however she is extremely unresponsive possibly due to too much work and made a royal mess out of my legal case. She recommended that I change from visitation to family therapy and because of this recommendation I have nearly lost all contact with my children. She withdrew from my case without my permission as well. She made zero progress in my case when she was my attorney. I do not recommend Rachel Sanders Hurley.
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20 Sep, 2018 by Vicki
Our family had a custody matter we were dealing with and Rachel stepped in and helped my family tremendously. She was professional, compassionate and listened to every detail. She worked with us to understand the process and approach the situation with only the best interest of the child in mind. She will work hard for you and walk you through every step. She worked her schedule around ours and worked hard for the best possible out come. A might warrior for her clients.
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29 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
I’m not sure if he’s given up and about to retire but he will run up charges and take your money so that you can get no results. He will lengthen the case purposely to add extra charges and leave you with thousands extra that you didn’t expect. Will he get the job done. The answer is no. Chose someone else.
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20 May, 2016 by Steven
This will be the third time I have had to yous Mr. Wykoff for issues with my X wife.He has been very professional and I feel has done an excellent job every time. I would recommend him to anyone.
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31 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Wykoff handled my divorce case, he did not look out for my best interest or try to negotiate on my behalf. He was offended that I took the time to look up what my rights were for mediation. I did not feel he was trustworthy because he never did what he said he was going to do but he ran up quite a bill. Lastly he made an unnecessary an inappropriate remark to my daughter. I would never recommend Mr. Wykoff to anyone.
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31 May, 2018 by John will
Been couple months sence i hired them on workmans case phillup stang is the worst WC lawyer ive done all the leg work and still havent got to see a dr for my injurys.i give them 7 days from today 5/30/18 to get something done them there fired have another lawyer thats ready to jump in and get things done
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18 May, 2018 by Adam williams
Do not let them handle your case .. took a year and a half to reach a settlement and I got screwed . Always had to call them , not once did they ever call me to give me a update or any information for that matter . Horrible, horrible business. I wish their was a zero stars just for them
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19 Mar, 2018 by Sondra
I filled out 2 contact forms and called the office 2 times. Never got a response or a call back. Ni aknowledgement. I guess they just want that quick ambulance chasing money. Totally unprofessional.
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14 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired this Lawyer for an accident that I was in and was very pleased with outcome that I got. He did recommend settling out of court but that was for my benefit. I have been in a lawsuit before that did not settle out of court and it was drawn out for several years. He made sure I was informed about all aspects of my case. He was very upfront and honest.
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16 Apr, 2011 by Barbara
We hired Lawyer Mike in 2008. I will not discuss our suit because for one its no ones business and another its not over. So far he has done great work for us. He does return any question I have. He treats you more like friends than clients. As far as I;m concerned he will be our attorny the rest our life. He knows his stuff. People dont realize they have more than one case and to people can hurt thier own cases to. The is always gonna be someone who dont like somebody. You really want a lawyer that stinks. Get a few we've had than you can talk. You cant win them all. But we think hes a great person and lawyer.
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20 Feb, 2010 by Anonymous
I also found this guy in the phone book. He told me I had a good case. His secretary handled all of it, He never returned phone calls, I did all the leg work in getting the paperwork together. Then after months and months of not hearing anything from him, right before Christmas he advised me to settle and not go to court, It was over a back injury and after he reviewed my medical records he said "you went to the dr for a back problem back in 92" (which was nothing to do with my current injury), so he didn't believe me. Now, I am now disabled after I settled out of court because of him. He is an arrogont, unprofessional joke of an attorney that will not do anything to help you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Ben edwards
Only giving one Star because I'm really just using this to try and get ahold of someone. Everytime I call it says my call can not be completed. Someone said y'all help with local tyrants. I need that help. Please contact me.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Knox foodie
Attorneys are who made it so that it is so incredibly difficult to represent yourself or sue anyone else and so exceptionally expensive to obtain an attorney, creating defined lines between the Capital and Districts.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Amanda hamlin
This is such a great service. When you find yourself in a situation where an attorney is needed, it is very overwhelming. I called around Knoxville for two days trying to find the right attorney that could help me. I contacted the Knoxville Bar Association and within a few hours I received an attorney referral. It was that easy! When I contacted my referred attorney, I panicked when I found out it would be a couple of weeks before we could meet due to scheduling conflicts. I contacted Tracy Chain at the Knoxville Bar Association. She is amazing! She understood my panic and assured me the referred attorney was the best attorney for my situation. She was very helpful and offered a few other suggestions to help.
After speaking with my referred attorney, I couldn’t be more pleased with the referral. He truly was the best attorney to fit my situation. He was patient, kind and very knowledgeable of the law regarding my issue. I felt like he really understood me and my unique situation. Most notably, I found him to be extremely honest. He explained everything in great detail so I had a better understanding of my options. I couldn’t have found a more perfect fit.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Ben edwards
Only giving one Star because I'm really just using this to try and get ahold of someone. Everytime I call it says my call can not be completed. Someone said y'all help with local tyrants. I need that help. Please contact me.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Knox foodie
Attorneys are who made it so that it is so incredibly difficult to represent yourself or sue anyone else and so exceptionally expensive to obtain an attorney, creating defined lines between the Capital and Districts.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Amanda hamlin
This is such a great service. When you find yourself in a situation where an attorney is needed, it is very overwhelming. I called around Knoxville for two days trying to find the right attorney that could help me. I contacted the Knoxville Bar Association and within a few hours I received an attorney referral. It was that easy! When I contacted my referred attorney, I panicked when I found out it would be a couple of weeks before we could meet due to scheduling conflicts. I contacted Tracy Chain at the Knoxville Bar Association. She is amazing! She understood my panic and assured me the referred attorney was the best attorney for my situation. She was very helpful and offered a few other suggestions to help.
After speaking with my referred attorney, I couldn’t be more pleased with the referral. He truly was the best attorney to fit my situation. He was patient, kind and very knowledgeable of the law regarding my issue. I felt like he really understood me and my unique situation. Most notably, I found him to be extremely honest. He explained everything in great detail so I had a better understanding of my options. I couldn’t have found a more perfect fit.
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11 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Takes your money and runes away. No contact , Nothing. Been trying to contact for 3 months ...
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24 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
This lawyer was hired by a debt relief agency on my behalf. He called me shortly after the assignment. He was supposed to negotiate a couple of debts for me but after the initial call, I never heard from him again. I was sued twice and he never showed up in court either time. When I called the debt agency they said he was to give me updates but when I called him the call went to voicemail. Twice I was able to leave a message but he never returned my call, all the other times I called the voicemail box was too full to leave a message. I never met him in person and only had one conversation with him. The least he could do was respond to my call and tell me he wasn't taking my case. Instead, I was in court waiting for a lawyer to show up. I have since found out that the debt agency is a scam. If he knew this he should have warned me.
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29 May, 2022 by Anonymous
If I could give a lower rating than this I definitely would. He drug out the divorce as long as possible, Would bill me every month additional $100-$300 or more for “mailing” me with ridiculous trumped up fee charges such as, he would bill me for “reading”an email from defendants attorney who made a minor statement concerning a date or comment and also for cost of secretary “ mailing “me a notification stating that he read it, a separate fee for postage, and “ labor” for actually mailing it! He also called me one Saturday morning asking me to come to his office to “discuss the case” which I thought was odd and said so but he insisted that, “he had other pressing cases coming up and may not have another time before the next 3 weeks before going to court”… so I drove a good distance to get to his office, within a minute of being seated he excused himself and spent a good 30-35 minutes rummaging in a file closet across the hall, kept excusing himself to do more of the same, would comeback… ask me something that we had already discussed then get on his laptop… he didn’t want me there to discuss MY case… he was preparing for ANOTHER upcoming case and wanted to BILL ME for his time at the office on a Saturday!
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29 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Needs to retire. His letters to the court are always with spelling mistakes, he overcharged me (bills to read a one sentence email). When you call him he is in a bar or tavern as you can hear the backnoise. A few emails to him he charged over 1000. He is a joke and has people believing he is this really good lawyer. He is good at taking your money, thats all. My ex was trying to work with Mr. Valone through his lawyer to wrap up our divorce and Mr. Valone would write all these awful lies in letters to my ex. When I asked him why he was doing this he said he has been doing it all his life. He even had me feeling sorry for my ex. I think he has had a bad life or bad drinking problem. His letters are all filled with lies and he does not care. He sounds drunk all the time. His face is always red. Stay away.
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25 Sep, 2020 by Michael
Couldn’t get a hold of him. Wouldn’t call back for weeks and a few times over a month. Lied about what was being done. Said he had sent out certified letters to defendants and said he had claims for me to review and he never filed any claims. Quit contacting me completely and was paid for services. Couldn’t imagine a worse attorney.
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FAQs
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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.
