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16 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Chris helped me and my wife with our bankruptcy, and the process was near seamless. Quick-witted, and with a dry sense of humor that stuck, Chris quickly and expertly handled our case, updating us along the way so we could rest assured everything was in order. We would not hesitate to highly recommend Chris for your legal needs!
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17 Dec, 2016 by Stephanie
Chris has always been there for me when I had questions. He assisted me a decade ago and again just recently. He returns emails and phone calls and addresses your questions & concerns. I am beyond thankful for his wonderful service.
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19 Feb, 2016 by Pete
Chris helped my wife and I through some of the most difficult times we ever had. He always returned our calls, met with us on short notice and was a tireless advocate on our behalf. He also gives much back to our community (and is an incredible actor at our community theater). I could not recommend anyone higher.
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03 Jul, 2024 by John and chantal, owners of 9round
Mr. Ferguson was unbelievable! He was he extremely quick with responding. It did not matter when we contacted him, he was there for us. He was beyond patient explaining terminology we did not understand within our commercial contract. He never judged us for not understanding. Having his help during a stressful time truly made all the difference for our future. We would recommend him to anyone!
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15 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
He did a great job took only nine months after her into treatment they been over backwards to get every penny he could out of them I ended up getting almost all of the policy liability for both insurance companies that were involved.
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08 Nov, 2016 by Diane radell
Excellent, concise, advice. I highly recommend this attorney.
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04 Feb, 2016 by Chuck
I found myself one day needing legal aid to defend myself against charges of domestic assault, represention for divorce, and shared custody of my 3.5 year old child. Jennifer was referred too me by a friend. I meet with Jen, and felt from the start she was someone I could put my future in her hands. Jen had her work cut out for her because my now ex- wife had put togather a case against me to bet all cases. My assault case was dissmissed. My fight for shared custody went thur all the typical paths that one parent may take when trying to prove to the courts that another parent is unfit to have shared custody.Which included my child seeing a counselor at the age of 4 and 5. During my fight for custody I had asked Jen to do something that is most often frowned upon by the courts. That was to have my child be put on the witness stand in front of the judge, Presiding over my custody and divorce case. Along with many other factors in this case I strongly believe that the meeting of my child and the Judge showed the court how wrong it would be, and how much it may affect the way this child's life may have turned out had my ex gotten what she wanted. Jennifer fought for Shared Primary Residence, and won this for myself and my daughter. My daughter is 14 now and remembers everything that took place during the 3 years it took to get this case resolved. She does great in school. And has been playing basketball year round for 4 years now, she is in the 8th grade her grades are great, also does track.She has a life that would not be as it is had I not had a Lawyer that went the distance with every issue she could to prove the truth and get all the facts out for every one involved in my case too see. In the end I would not ever want to go through that mess again but if ever I had to I would want Jennifer Ferguson, to be repenting me in court. I always recommend Att. Ferguson to any one needing the best. I could never repay her for what she did for myself and my daughter. Like most Attorneys probably are she dosen't like to be personal with a client, but I know she has a heart of gold, and once in awhile she shows that great smile she try's to hide while doing her Job.
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29 Oct, 2014 by John
I met with a couple of lawyers prior to hiring Jennifer to handle my motion to modify case for my divorce judgment.
Unlike the other attorneys, Jennifer offered candid advice during our first meeting and described to me what my options were and the best case scenario could be.
She gave honest, frank, and realistic advice and feedback during the entire process and was very easy to work with. On several occasions the defendant in the case attempted to steer mediation discussions off topic and Jennifer turned the conversation back to the pertinent issues.
If you are looking for no nonsense, honest, and thorough counsel, I would highly recommend Jennifer Ferguson from Fales and Fales.
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29 Mar, 2013 by Kris
Jennifer and her staff are amazing to work with. There is nothing that gets by her, and if you want results in your case Fales and Fales is definitly worth checking out. As stated in the subject line; you dont need high priced commercials or gimmicks to get results, this is a small personalized firm that treats you the way you deserve. Could not ask for any better because it just does not exist.
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29 Oct, 2020 by Kyi
My divorce case was in Lewiston court when I hired him. I got full custody of my 2 kids at the end of court hearing. I am fully satisfy
what he represent me as lawyer in my case.
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24 Mar, 2024 by Jenn adams
27 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Allan represented me through a difficult legal situation that involved serious criminal charges. Throughout the entire process, I never felt alone and in the end, he was able to achieve a positive outcome and dismissal for my case. My particular situation lasted for a significant period and during that process, his team was very communicative, and supportive. I would recommend him and his team to help see you through your circumstances. No one ever wants to find themselves dealing with a stressful legal situation, but if you do know he will be there for you.
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06 Sep, 2023 by Joseph whispell
I recently posted a review of Lobozzo’s performance in my case and what he said to me upon my initial interview. I see he had deleted that. When I have more time, I will update you on what type of lawyer you are actually dealing with.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Adekunle adeyanju
Keep the good work up
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25 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Ms. Randall was amazing. She kept me update on everything happening and showed a lot of compassion for my situation. I would highly recommend her if you are needing representation. She truly cares about the people she is representing.
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01 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney Randall helped me through a very unpleasant OUI process. She responded to all questions and concerns promptly.
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5.0
10 Reviews
4.5
8 Reviews
14 Oct, 2024 by Adekunle adeyanju
Keep the good work up
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19 Nov, 2023 by Ashley ann rowe
15 Jul, 2023 by Glen holmes
You
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14 Oct, 2024 by Adekunle adeyanju
Keep the good work up
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19 Nov, 2023 by Ashley ann rowe
15 Jul, 2023 by Glen holmes
You
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ashley herrick
My husband and I contacted travis Brennan after my husband's surgery which went well until closing time when they went to wean him off his heart lung machine. He went into cardiogenic shock, ended up with complications. Later finding out they left a surgical sponge in his chest and closed him up. He had more complications after this which I won't get into on here. But this lawyer decided to get our record information and look at them. Berman and simmons had access for 3 months without any updates or knowing the process I emailed them with ongoing complications appts. Finally 3 months later we get a call and he made a comment to us that told us he had spent no time reading his medical records and that he didn't think he had a case. From the beginning we kind of got the feeling he didn't want to take our case he did advise us to reach out for a second opinion which is why I'm giving 2 stars. Also lubin and meyer a lawfirm in mass wanted to take our case until they learned at the end we were in maine and unfortunately they didn't practice here. Unfortunately they reached out to one of their partners which happened to be berman and simmons and was stated to them they already reviewed our medical records and decided not to move forward with it. We would've appreciated if travis would've stated from the beginning that he was too busy dealing with the biggest case in the state.
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06 Jul, 2024 by #43
I recently served as a juror on a (now closed) case for a personal injury lawsuit where Jim was the plaintiff's legal counsel. I found Jim made a compelling argument and presented facts in an easy to understand manner. Jim did an exceptional job of anticipating the defense attorney's arguments before they were made. He played devil's advocate to the defendant's perspective. This allowed him to be in control in a reserved manner even when the defense lawyer was trying to present his case. His closing argument reflected much of my internal monologue throughout the two day trial and it was an important aspect of what helped me convey my perspective to the other jurors during the deliberation period. He is very good at showing the humanity of his clients. He is also good at picking apart testimony during cross examinations in real time. On top of that he was also much more organized than the other side. While everybody in the jury agreed his client's request for compensation was too ambitious based on the nature of the case, I think Jim's lack of overly aggressive tendencies serves him well and allows him to stand in contrast to other lawyers who adopt more stereotypical approaches.
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02 Jul, 2024 by S. paige zeigler
I was very pleased with the support I got from Mike Bigos and Erika Lindstrom. They handled my case well and I received the full amount from the insurance company. They were available when we had questions.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ashley herrick
My husband and I contacted travis Brennan after my husband's surgery which went well until closing time when they went to wean him off his heart lung machine. He went into cardiogenic shock, ended up with complications. Later finding out they left a surgical sponge in his chest and closed him up. He had more complications after this which I won't get into on here. But this lawyer decided to get our record information and look at them. Berman and simmons had access for 3 months without any updates or knowing the process I emailed them with ongoing complications appts. Finally 3 months later we get a call and he made a comment to us that told us he had spent no time reading his medical records and that he didn't think he had a case. From the beginning we kind of got the feeling he didn't want to take our case he did advise us to reach out for a second opinion which is why I'm giving 2 stars. Also lubin and meyer a lawfirm in mass wanted to take our case until they learned at the end we were in maine and unfortunately they didn't practice here. Unfortunately they reached out to one of their partners which happened to be berman and simmons and was stated to them they already reviewed our medical records and decided not to move forward with it. We would've appreciated if travis would've stated from the beginning that he was too busy dealing with the biggest case in the state.
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02 Jul, 2024 by S. paige zeigler
I was very pleased with the support I got from Mike Bigos and Erika Lindstrom. They handled my case well and I received the full amount from the insurance company. They were available when we had questions.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Douglas duguay
Very satisfied with this law firm . I would recommend them in a heart beat.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ashley herrick
My husband and I contacted travis Brennan after my husband's surgery which went well until closing time when they went to wean him off his heart lung machine. He went into cardiogenic shock, ended up with complications. Later finding out they left a surgical sponge in his chest and closed him up. He had more complications after this which I won't get into on here. But this lawyer decided to get our record information and look at them. Berman and simmons had access for 3 months without any updates or knowing the process I emailed them with ongoing complications appts. Finally 3 months later we get a call and he made a comment to us that told us he had spent no time reading his medical records and that he didn't think he had a case. From the beginning we kind of got the feeling he didn't want to take our case he did advise us to reach out for a second opinion which is why I'm giving 2 stars. Also lubin and meyer a lawfirm in mass wanted to take our case until they learned at the end we were in maine and unfortunately they didn't practice here. Unfortunately they reached out to one of their partners which happened to be berman and simmons and was stated to them they already reviewed our medical records and decided not to move forward with it. We would've appreciated if travis would've stated from the beginning that he was too busy dealing with the biggest case in the state.
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02 Jul, 2024 by S. paige zeigler
I was very pleased with the support I got from Mike Bigos and Erika Lindstrom. They handled my case well and I received the full amount from the insurance company. They were available when we had questions.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Douglas duguay
Very satisfied with this law firm . I would recommend them in a heart beat.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ashley herrick
My husband and I contacted travis Brennan after my husband's surgery which went well until closing time when they went to wean him off his heart lung machine. He went into cardiogenic shock, ended up with complications. Later finding out they left a surgical sponge in his chest and closed him up. He had more complications after this which I won't get into on here. But this lawyer decided to get our record information and look at them. Berman and simmons had access for 3 months without any updates or knowing the process I emailed them with ongoing complications appts. Finally 3 months later we get a call and he made a comment to us that told us he had spent no time reading his medical records and that he didn't think he had a case. From the beginning we kind of got the feeling he didn't want to take our case he did advise us to reach out for a second opinion which is why I'm giving 2 stars. Also lubin and meyer a lawfirm in mass wanted to take our case until they learned at the end we were in maine and unfortunately they didn't practice here. Unfortunately they reached out to one of their partners which happened to be berman and simmons and was stated to them they already reviewed our medical records and decided not to move forward with it. We would've appreciated if travis would've stated from the beginning that he was too busy dealing with the biggest case in the state.
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02 Jul, 2024 by S. paige zeigler
I was very pleased with the support I got from Mike Bigos and Erika Lindstrom. They handled my case well and I received the full amount from the insurance company. They were available when we had questions.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Douglas duguay
Very satisfied with this law firm . I would recommend them in a heart beat.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ashley herrick
My husband and I contacted travis Brennan after my husband's surgery which went well until closing time when they went to wean him off his heart lung machine. He went into cardiogenic shock, ended up with complications. Later finding out they left a surgical sponge in his chest and closed him up. He had more complications after this which I won't get into on here. But this lawyer decided to get our record information and look at them. Berman and simmons had access for 3 months without any updates or knowing the process I emailed them with ongoing complications appts. Finally 3 months later we get a call and he made a comment to us that told us he had spent no time reading his medical records and that he didn't think he had a case. From the beginning we kind of got the feeling he didn't want to take our case he did advise us to reach out for a second opinion which is why I'm giving 2 stars. Also lubin and meyer a lawfirm in mass wanted to take our case until they learned at the end we were in maine and unfortunately they didn't practice here. Unfortunately they reached out to one of their partners which happened to be berman and simmons and was stated to them they already reviewed our medical records and decided not to move forward with it. We would've appreciated if travis would've stated from the beginning that he was too busy dealing with the biggest case in the state.
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02 Jul, 2024 by S. paige zeigler
I was very pleased with the support I got from Mike Bigos and Erika Lindstrom. They handled my case well and I received the full amount from the insurance company. They were available when we had questions.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Douglas duguay
Very satisfied with this law firm . I would recommend them in a heart beat.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ashley herrick
My husband and I contacted travis Brennan after my husband's surgery which went well until closing time when they went to wean him off his heart lung machine. He went into cardiogenic shock, ended up with complications. Later finding out they left a surgical sponge in his chest and closed him up. He had more complications after this which I won't get into on here. But this lawyer decided to get our record information and look at them. Berman and simmons had access for 3 months without any updates or knowing the process I emailed them with ongoing complications appts. Finally 3 months later we get a call and he made a comment to us that told us he had spent no time reading his medical records and that he didn't think he had a case. From the beginning we kind of got the feeling he didn't want to take our case he did advise us to reach out for a second opinion which is why I'm giving 2 stars. Also lubin and meyer a lawfirm in mass wanted to take our case until they learned at the end we were in maine and unfortunately they didn't practice here. Unfortunately they reached out to one of their partners which happened to be berman and simmons and was stated to them they already reviewed our medical records and decided not to move forward with it. We would've appreciated if travis would've stated from the beginning that he was too busy dealing with the biggest case in the state.
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02 Jul, 2024 by S. paige zeigler
I was very pleased with the support I got from Mike Bigos and Erika Lindstrom. They handled my case well and I received the full amount from the insurance company. They were available when we had questions.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Douglas duguay
Very satisfied with this law firm . I would recommend them in a heart beat.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ashley herrick
My husband and I contacted travis Brennan after my husband's surgery which went well until closing time when they went to wean him off his heart lung machine. He went into cardiogenic shock, ended up with complications. Later finding out they left a surgical sponge in his chest and closed him up. He had more complications after this which I won't get into on here. But this lawyer decided to get our record information and look at them. Berman and simmons had access for 3 months without any updates or knowing the process I emailed them with ongoing complications appts. Finally 3 months later we get a call and he made a comment to us that told us he had spent no time reading his medical records and that he didn't think he had a case. From the beginning we kind of got the feeling he didn't want to take our case he did advise us to reach out for a second opinion which is why I'm giving 2 stars. Also lubin and meyer a lawfirm in mass wanted to take our case until they learned at the end we were in maine and unfortunately they didn't practice here. Unfortunately they reached out to one of their partners which happened to be berman and simmons and was stated to them they already reviewed our medical records and decided not to move forward with it. We would've appreciated if travis would've stated from the beginning that he was too busy dealing with the biggest case in the state.
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by S. paige zeigler
I was very pleased with the support I got from Mike Bigos and Erika Lindstrom. They handled my case well and I received the full amount from the insurance company. They were available when we had questions.
Read more
01 Jul, 2024 by Douglas duguay
Very satisfied with this law firm . I would recommend them in a heart beat.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ashley herrick
My husband and I contacted travis Brennan after my husband's surgery which went well until closing time when they went to wean him off his heart lung machine. He went into cardiogenic shock, ended up with complications. Later finding out they left a surgical sponge in his chest and closed him up. He had more complications after this which I won't get into on here. But this lawyer decided to get our record information and look at them. Berman and simmons had access for 3 months without any updates or knowing the process I emailed them with ongoing complications appts. Finally 3 months later we get a call and he made a comment to us that told us he had spent no time reading his medical records and that he didn't think he had a case. From the beginning we kind of got the feeling he didn't want to take our case he did advise us to reach out for a second opinion which is why I'm giving 2 stars. Also lubin and meyer a lawfirm in mass wanted to take our case until they learned at the end we were in maine and unfortunately they didn't practice here. Unfortunately they reached out to one of their partners which happened to be berman and simmons and was stated to them they already reviewed our medical records and decided not to move forward with it. We would've appreciated if travis would've stated from the beginning that he was too busy dealing with the biggest case in the state.
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by S. paige zeigler
I was very pleased with the support I got from Mike Bigos and Erika Lindstrom. They handled my case well and I received the full amount from the insurance company. They were available when we had questions.
Read more
01 Jul, 2024 by Douglas duguay
Very satisfied with this law firm . I would recommend them in a heart beat.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Ashley herrick
My husband and I contacted travis Brennan after my husband's surgery which went well until closing time when they went to wean him off his heart lung machine. He went into cardiogenic shock, ended up with complications. Later finding out they left a surgical sponge in his chest and closed him up. He had more complications after this which I won't get into on here. But this lawyer decided to get our record information and look at them. Berman and simmons had access for 3 months without any updates or knowing the process I emailed them with ongoing complications appts. Finally 3 months later we get a call and he made a comment to us that told us he had spent no time reading his medical records and that he didn't think he had a case. From the beginning we kind of got the feeling he didn't want to take our case he did advise us to reach out for a second opinion which is why I'm giving 2 stars. Also lubin and meyer a lawfirm in mass wanted to take our case until they learned at the end we were in maine and unfortunately they didn't practice here. Unfortunately they reached out to one of their partners which happened to be berman and simmons and was stated to them they already reviewed our medical records and decided not to move forward with it. We would've appreciated if travis would've stated from the beginning that he was too busy dealing with the biggest case in the state.
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by S. paige zeigler
I was very pleased with the support I got from Mike Bigos and Erika Lindstrom. They handled my case well and I received the full amount from the insurance company. They were available when we had questions.
Read more
01 Jul, 2024 by Douglas duguay
Very satisfied with this law firm . I would recommend them in a heart beat.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Jessica philbrook
12 Jun, 2024 by Syrinx33
After I was hit by a school bus while working as a crossing guard, I was dismayed to find that people at Portland Schools were refusing to return my calls, and various personal injury law firms were not interested in my case. Then, to my relief, I found Sheldon Tepler, an attorney at Hardy, Wolf & Downing.
Sheldon and his staff worked tirelessly to secure the settlement which I deserved, and I would recommend them very highly.
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03 Jan, 2024 by William hafford
So far this is a great law firm. There fast and persistent with getting back to me and they can really explain things well for me to understand. Thank you Michael and everyone behind the scenes.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Jessica philbrook
12 Jun, 2024 by Syrinx33
After I was hit by a school bus while working as a crossing guard, I was dismayed to find that people at Portland Schools were refusing to return my calls, and various personal injury law firms were not interested in my case. Then, to my relief, I found Sheldon Tepler, an attorney at Hardy, Wolf & Downing.
Sheldon and his staff worked tirelessly to secure the settlement which I deserved, and I would recommend them very highly.
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03 Jan, 2024 by William hafford
So far this is a great law firm. There fast and persistent with getting back to me and they can really explain things well for me to understand. Thank you Michael and everyone behind the scenes.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Jamie budley
I have been using them for about 3 years now and things are going great and don't have a anything bad to say
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11 Aug, 2023 by Bond
Heather was a true advocate for my best interest. Her experience and confidence got the results I needed in my case. Heather is easy to talk to and listens, gathers information then puts an ethical, winning case together. She treats all parties respectfully. She was very responsive to any questions or concerns. I would highly recommend Heather for your attorney needs.
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08 Aug, 2023 by Emily
Heather has been my attorney for several years and continues to deliver. She works diligently to understand exactly what your goals are and always follows through. Her communication and delivery are top notch. I consistently refer her to anyone in need regarding family matters (that’s what she has worked with me on). As far as I’m concerned, client for life!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Stacey spencer
Very friendly, kind and understanding. Really helped me put my wishes in writing. Would highly recommend this office for your needs. This office was very kind and genuinely cared about the situation I was in and went above and beyond to help. I can't thank them enough!
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04 Jun, 2024 by Janice bailey
11 Apr, 2024 by Mitchell stein
Knowledgeable, compassionate, and reasonable charges. Everything you could ask for in a legal practice.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Trumpvance2024
Led me on for months saying they'd review my case, never getting back to me. A simple sorry, but we're not interested would have been fine. From the beginning several emails were not answered, far from professional.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Beatrice talmage
I received a call at my place of employment from an employee of this company and I left my shift in tears. I haven’t been spoken to in such a demeaning and belittling way in some time- that is why I am writing. I was schooled by this person about how to run a business and that not answering phones will be cause for people to look elsewhere. While I whole heartedly agree with the principle, it does not take into account that a person showing up to their job and who makes no company-wide decisions - is not an appropriate contact to put down (let alone harass). I work very hard and despite the insinuation of this person, I am not stupid; I simply have no control of staffing or volume of calls.
This is not the first person I’ve encountered from this firm that has exhibited a concerning moral compass. I’m cheering everyone on to be represented adequately and fairly- so I’m not writing this to express hatred (we all have our moments, me included). I just want to share my personal experience as I know that those seeking legal advice and representation want to feel informed and secure in their endeavors.
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28 May, 2024 by Jim
So far a great law firm.
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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.
