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01 Jul, 2024 by Linda lee
I needed advice on a legal personal matter and was referred to Watton Law Group. Mr. Michael Watton returned my call expeditiously, and I responded the next morning. Mr. Watton asked me specific questions regarding the matter and explained each question in depth to make the right decision. I appreciated his timely response as well as his advice on making the right decision. I would refer this law firm for any professional advice!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Campground
I’m still in the middle of the thicket but I wanted to urge anyone one who’s looking for a great lawyer who will fight for you ms nony is your woman! Her and her paralegal ms brook are calm patient and informative with you and will the whole time work for your best interest they are very caring individuals who are passionate about there work and helping there clients
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11 Jun, 2024 by Guy s
Consulted with Michael Watton and he was very upfront and professional. He took the time to listen and offered great advice to follow without having to declare bankruptcy at this time. I will certainly use this firm should later I need to file.
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05 Jan, 2024 by Samantha smith
I’m super fortunate that I had Will Bond and Sarah Jewell represent my personal injury case. They really are genuine, compassionate and honest. I’m amazed at how smooth my case went and they are top notch when dealing with insurance companies. I was kept up to date and informed about my case at all times and all calls and texts were returned promptly. No pressure whatsoever, never felt taken advantage of, and I was given realistic expectations. I appreciate their professionalism and integrity. I’m super happy with the outcome of my case. 100% recommend Will Bond and Sarah Jewell. I will absolutely be back if I ever need legal representation again .
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03 Sep, 2023 by Mary cathey
They are much more than personal injury lawyers. They also handle estates, family law, divorce, criminal cases, etc.
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23 Dec, 2022 by Stephen graydog
CALL , About a VA Claim on jet fuel exposure, was taking to this woman, over the phone, basically she taking like a clown, or talking like demonic spiritual creature PUPPET, HAD TO HANG UP , ON THAT THING, and went to a different LAW Firm . That person or THING, was WEIRD and Creepy. And WAS ASKING WEIRD and creepy QUESTIONS.
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14 Oct, 2015 by Jill
I was initially attracted by Jennifer's seeming professionalism, personality, and positive energy...as a result, I hired her as my bankruptcy attorney. The process started out well. I drove 4 hours there and 4 hours back for my first appointment. She was paid in full and the process began. I completed all of my necessary requirements for the case in a timely manner. As time went on, the case seemed to drag out. I was concerned about this as I had recently moved from Arkansas to Oklahoma and my time to file in Arkansas was coming to a close. One day I sent Jennifer an email with a question about how things were coming along on my case, I get a response in all caps that her office was CLOSING. WHAT?!? I got a hold of her and she said that she accepted another position and was closing her office, but she assured me that she would complete my case within the given time frame. Time went on, time went on. She had contacted me telling me there was a form I needed to sign, but this form never came in the mail. When I tried contacting her about it...NOTHING. Weeks went by and I heard NOTHING. Finally she sent me an EMAIL stating that for personal reasons and the fact that my time to file in Arkansas was almost up...(well, yeah...hello!)...I needed to find another attorney and she would send my paperwork and a "partial refund" and she wished me well in my future. WHAT KIND OF ATTORNEY DOES THIS?? I replied with a question about what she meant by a partial refund since my case was never filed or completed. I never heard a word back from her. A month later she sent me my paperwork in the mail with a check for $335 which is only the cost to file. Now, I have had to find another attorney in Oklahoma. The cheapest, most effective one I can find is charging me a reduced rate due to the circumstances which is still $1,085. Most people who file bankruptcy don't have the resources to pay this kind of money once, much less twice. Very disappointing.
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27 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Mrs. Wells handled my criminal case very well. She answered all my question I had about what was going to happen in court which I was very concerned about. If i very have any problems again with any cases I will most definitely be calling Mrs. Wells back. Also will refer her to anyone I know that needs help. This is how all lawyers should be.
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20 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Mrs. Wells recently handled my bankruptcy. She made me feel comfortable and patiently answered my many questions. She made a difficult time in my life easier and much less stressful. I will definitely contact her for any other legal concerns I may have in the future. Also, her office is beautiful and her window displays are amazing.
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16 May, 2022 by Nez erkman
19 Aug, 2020 by Michelle holt
17 Oct, 2019 by Sheryl d smith-anderson
30 Oct, 2024 by Katie keen
Professional, communicative and efficient! I’m sincerely appreciative to Trent and Conner at River City Law for their services. They made my process as easy as possible and communicated with me every step of the way. I am so grateful I went to them with my case!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Naomi mccoy
RiverCity Law is an awesomely amazing law firm where you will
understand on day 1 that your well- being is top priority. RiverCity Law team are very patient and kind people who understand that you face a journey. Whether it is a long road or a short block, RiverCity Law will treat you with dignity, respect, confidence, and loyalty. For months this Law Firm was my shoulder to cry on when going through illness, an ear to listen, as well as a giver of encouraging words saying it will be ok, thus letting me know they really care about me as an individual. The case ethics are indisputable the job gets done!!! I was never left in the dark about anything , all questions were answered, THEY LISTENED TO WHAT I HAD TO SAY!!! Gave me options in decision making for my case and made sure that my options were understood clearly. Words can never express, the gratitude I will forever carry in my heart just meeting this phenomenal team . To Mr. Trent, Logan, Katelyn, and the entire RiverCity Law Team, Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am so thankful God gave me the opportunity to meet all of you. it has truly been a blessing that I will cherish for the rest of my life. May God continue to bless you. YOU GUYS ROCK!!!
Ms Naomi
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20 Aug, 2024 by Sebastian martinez
Highly recommend Trent for any custody battle!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Katie keen
Professional, communicative and efficient! I’m sincerely appreciative to Trent and Conner at River City Law for their services. They made my process as easy as possible and communicated with me every step of the way. I am so grateful I went to them with my case!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Naomi mccoy
RiverCity Law is an awesomely amazing law firm where you will
understand on day 1 that your well- being is top priority. RiverCity Law team are very patient and kind people who understand that you face a journey. Whether it is a long road or a short block, RiverCity Law will treat you with dignity, respect, confidence, and loyalty. For months this Law Firm was my shoulder to cry on when going through illness, an ear to listen, as well as a giver of encouraging words saying it will be ok, thus letting me know they really care about me as an individual. The case ethics are indisputable the job gets done!!! I was never left in the dark about anything , all questions were answered, THEY LISTENED TO WHAT I HAD TO SAY!!! Gave me options in decision making for my case and made sure that my options were understood clearly. Words can never express, the gratitude I will forever carry in my heart just meeting this phenomenal team . To Mr. Trent, Logan, Katelyn, and the entire RiverCity Law Team, Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am so thankful God gave me the opportunity to meet all of you. it has truly been a blessing that I will cherish for the rest of my life. May God continue to bless you. YOU GUYS ROCK!!!
Ms Naomi
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20 Aug, 2024 by Sebastian martinez
Highly recommend Trent for any custody battle!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Katie keen
Professional, communicative and efficient! I’m sincerely appreciative to Trent and Conner at River City Law for their services. They made my process as easy as possible and communicated with me every step of the way. I am so grateful I went to them with my case!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Naomi mccoy
RiverCity Law is an awesomely amazing law firm where you will
understand on day 1 that your well- being is top priority. RiverCity Law team are very patient and kind people who understand that you face a journey. Whether it is a long road or a short block, RiverCity Law will treat you with dignity, respect, confidence, and loyalty. For months this Law Firm was my shoulder to cry on when going through illness, an ear to listen, as well as a giver of encouraging words saying it will be ok, thus letting me know they really care about me as an individual. The case ethics are indisputable the job gets done!!! I was never left in the dark about anything , all questions were answered, THEY LISTENED TO WHAT I HAD TO SAY!!! Gave me options in decision making for my case and made sure that my options were understood clearly. Words can never express, the gratitude I will forever carry in my heart just meeting this phenomenal team . To Mr. Trent, Logan, Katelyn, and the entire RiverCity Law Team, Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am so thankful God gave me the opportunity to meet all of you. it has truly been a blessing that I will cherish for the rest of my life. May God continue to bless you. YOU GUYS ROCK!!!
Ms Naomi
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20 Aug, 2024 by Sebastian martinez
Highly recommend Trent for any custody battle!
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14 Mar, 2024 by John brown
13 Feb, 2024 by Arissa nagle
05 Jan, 2024 by Jeff sims
Steve did a great job and closed my issue down fast!
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31 Mar, 2024 by Kevin covell
Awesome place for your legal needs . They know their stuff
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07 Aug, 2022 by Connie miller
30 Jun, 2021 by Charles neely
He screwed up and f***** up my case what should have been a simple walk from a so-called aggravated assault the victim didn't want to press charges but the state of Arkansas insisted the results I got 5 years in prison all because he didn't do his job up hauling the witness to court for Superior in the witness this is back in 1985 he was incompetent then and he's incompetent now buyer beware
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23 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Green has a heart of gold and is a true professional! I was nervous about hiring a lawyer but his firm handled everything and anytime I had a question Mr. Green explained what was going on. He knows the law inside and out and I would trust him with anything after this!
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05 Mar, 2018 by Rebecca
I trusted Gary Green to handle a case for me where I was seriously injured. The case involved a driver using a cell phone. I couldn’t have been more pleased with Gary’s high degree of professionalism. He handled everything and made it easier for me to try and put my life back together. I highly recommend this attorney. He’s smart, experienced and compassionate.
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14 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Green and his team did exactly what they said they were going to do, and got us a result we would never have gotten on our own. We are grateful for their help!!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Leon anderson
Samantha Carpenter did an excellent job on my case and was even able to get me into court earlier then the original court date. I would highly recommend hiring Samantha Carpenter and I'll definitely hire her again if I ever find myself in trouble again
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14 Mar, 2024 by Dawn staff
Ms. Carpenter was wonderful the whole time I needed her.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Tiffany davis
It hurts my feelings reading all the wonderful reviews. I just have to tell the truth. I called for a case that I could prove. Ended up settling with a charge. I wish I would’ve spent more money on a better attorney. Samantha Carpenter was assigned to my case. If I knew two years ago what I know now, I could’ve saved my son’s reputation. My son purchased a legal weapon but chose to plea and get a record because his assigned attorney didn’t want to fight. I feel like we got the other treatment. The right to bear arms is supposed to be universal.
In my opinion if you want a professional defense-try James Law Firm. Bill James knows that he has a reputation. Someone from his team may try the case but Bill consults and gives you the plan. You want an attorney that KNOWS the law and is confident. It makes you feel better.
You may get quoted a better price but if you want a chance, pay more and get proper representation.
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18 Dec, 2023 by Hugo rivera
21 Jun, 2022 by Matthew zook
Outstanding attorney
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29 Mar, 2022 by Tyler hayes
Richard Mays is one of the most experienced and professional attorneys I’ve ever met. I would highly recommend using him
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18 Sep, 2024 by Jonathon austin
Dale Duke got the charges dropped! Thank you so much got my life back.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Desiree lee
Dale Duke was wonderful to work with. He took care of our estate planning. Him and his team were friendly, thorough, and patient with my many questions. They did an excellent job detailing everything and we feel much better now that this is completed. I highly recommend them.
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01 Aug, 2024 by David whitener
Jay Martin was very knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with in completing all the paperwork to set up a Trust for us.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Jonathon austin
Dale Duke got the charges dropped! Thank you so much got my life back.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Desiree lee
Dale Duke was wonderful to work with. He took care of our estate planning. Him and his team were friendly, thorough, and patient with my many questions. They did an excellent job detailing everything and we feel much better now that this is completed. I highly recommend them.
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01 Aug, 2024 by David whitener
Jay Martin was very knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with in completing all the paperwork to set up a Trust for us.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Haley smith
She dragged my divorce out with her client, my ex husband and tried to take my daughter from me for no reason other than to win the case. She’s a crooked woman that only wants her money and doesn’t care about what’s best for the child.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Very rude and unprofessional. Just hung up on me during consultation without even hearing all the details.
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26 May, 2023 by Keisha mcdawn
Does not present cases well. Worst attorney in a hurry to get the case closed and send her bills
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28 Aug, 2024 by Holistic touch medical centers
This company is now on on our (do not accept patients for this law firm) list. We worked a case with them and they held it for two years and pocketed the medical expenses. I personally called Jessica Mallet and explained that we sent that client to them from our office to be represented. She stated that she did not ask us to do that. The attitude and professional conduct of this company should not be supported by this community. I urge every practitioner in this area to discontinue referring patients to this office. If you need proof I have our conversation recorded for you listening pleasure. I have never left a negative google review on anyone but I am pissed at low ethical standard of this firm. I am not done.
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31 May, 2024 by Anna louise
27 Apr, 2024 by Cynthia bell
That person that I spoke to on the telephone did not care about my situation he felt that the driver that place that stepstool is not a fault if it was one of his love ones it would have been a different situation anyone could have fell it’s sad very sad😞😡
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22 May, 2024 by Corey taylor
Mr. Omar Is very good at what he do It did not go the way I wanted it to go But he may share my biggest concern was taking care of which I did not get no Pen time But I am very happy with the performance of Service id for me Thank you very much....
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26 Dec, 2023 by Robert ennis
31 Oct, 2023 by Angela herford
07 Oct, 2024 by Amber
Mr. Greene is by far one of the worst defenders I have ever tried to contact.... iv left several messages and emails to which he never responded and he never responded to my husband either which is who he is supposed to be defending.... how do you defend someone you won't even talk to or give the time of day... by far a shitty defender take your buisness to someone else bc this guy is b.s.
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22 May, 2024 by Corey taylor
Mr. Omar Is very good at what he do It did not go the way I wanted it to go But he may share my biggest concern was taking care of which I did not get no Pen time But I am very happy with the performance of Service id for me Thank you very much....
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26 Dec, 2023 by Robert ennis
14 Jun, 2024 by Jimy mamdouh
30 Nov, 2023 by Kristofer stacher
Very professional
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27 Jan, 2023 by Momma kim
love this place, fare and kind
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10 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Don't return calls,letters,don't keep clients updated on the status of their case.you went to trial (murder)lost.now that you are doing my brother appeal.the family nor (Jeremy L Reed)haven't heard anything from you and can't get in touch with you.thats not right.just want to shed light on the truth to your viewers so that you can't do someone else family member wrong.
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25 Aug, 2023 by Sarah cowan
04 Jan, 2023 by Patrick cowan
08 Jun, 2023 by Myhailah green
Wren Law Firm represented me for a personal injury claim, they were able to get me the largest settlement possible and worked very hard to get that for me. :)
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06 Mar, 2023 by Paul lojewski
I used this firm for a worker's comp claim and they (Dan Wren, Suzanne Wren) kept me informed every step of the way. They was able to resolve my claim to a positive solution.
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19 Jan, 2023 by Danny “crzy4life” keith
Called and was told they are not taking employment cases and tried to just ask a simple question and was hung up on. Wouldn't recommend
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06 Aug, 2024 by Victoria leigh
Great result. Definitely recommend!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Eric gibbs
I was hired by Patrick Benca in Aug 2023 to serve a paper and he does not pay. He has viewed the invoice on QuickBooks but does not pay.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Tee graham
If worst lawyer in the world had an award he would win it by a landslide . Don’t spend not a dollar with him ON GOD
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11 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
This attorney is very studious.She was my Sunday School teacher.I would recommend her.she is verily.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Anthony pringle
Was deposed for deposition today by one of their attys,the attorney made an offensive and racist comment about the number of kids i had living with me,i was asked who all lived in my home and responded my fiance,myself and 5 kids,and he responded by saying and i quote,,other than a house full of kids,your fiance and yourself,does any one else live there,i thought his charactization of my kids as a house full of kids was unprofessional,inappropiate and racist
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17 Mar, 2020 by Coty mathews
Great firm. Highly recommend them, they handled my father's estate and were professional and courteous, called and keep me informed of the whole process. Years later still helped me locate paper work I had misplaced. Very professional and timely. Easy to find offices in Downtown Little Rock.
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21 Oct, 2019 by Monica bearden
My family could never repay Mel for what all he did for us! We are forever grateful for him.
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11 Aug, 2023 by Lex rising
(Lovely office setting )So far so good …I went in for a consultation with Alex jones and he is such a professional being . He listened and made sure I had an understanding of what was going to happen before we moved forward ..Alisha is lovely at the front desk as well .
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10 Jun, 2022 by Aliké chambers
Emailed and left a phone call 2 days ago and sadly never got a reply.
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22 Feb, 2021 by Franklin plegge
26 Mar, 2024 by Joy greer
My brother was hurt really bad because someone ran the stop sign, it's been almost 6 months they got their money he hasn't got a dime
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29 Jan, 2024 by Julie wilson
This place is an absolute joke
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12 Dec, 2023 by Terri birdow
I would 100% recommend Mr. Robert Ginnaven from this firm he was very swift and prompt from the time he was given my case. I appreciate him for not only keeping me updated about my case but also just checking in to see how I was doing. Definitely looking forward to do any future business with him.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I had a very disappointing experience with Seth L. Bowman. He failed to provide the services I contracted for regarding my speeding ticket and instead instructed me to pay the fine directly. I did not receive the representation I was entitled to, and when I requested a refund, he was rude and even threatened me. I do not recommend his services.
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25 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Hello, We have a problem with a case you were supposed to take care of, driver name is mentioned in the email we were communicating. Every time we call, there is no answer and no replies to our last 3 emails. I called court to find out the case status, court said that you failed to appear, there is warrant issued now because you never let us know that we have to pay anything to court, we have a higher than initial fine to pay to court in the amount of 535$, which means you just charged us 500$ for the work that was never done to save the driver's cdl from points. At least never tried to help. We feel very disappointed and we ask that you reimburse our money back.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Kimberly
I have emailed weekly to check in and spoke with this lawyer on the phone sent my information that was requested for an expungement from 20 plus years ago. He has told me every time I checked in he has been in trial or zero time in the office and he would get back to me than he told me after I sent him the notarized authorization history form my papers have been started but not approved this was 7-26-23. I emailed him last week and he has still not replied. I also kept asking him to send me an invoice so I can make a payment. I do have a copy of all emails sent and received.. if your to busy or don’t want to accept my case please do not request personal information and pretend that your working on it I could have hired another lawyer by now and it would be off my record already.
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03 Aug, 2022 by Shanelle
I hired Shawn and he did an amazing job helping me through this
difficult process. He was always readily available to
answer my calls, questions and even provided
encouragement through my dark days. There were
many of times, I wanted to throw in the towel and took
my frustration out on him. Shawn remained calm and
professional and made me see the bigger picture of my
situation. In the end my case was settled through
mediation. I walked away with far less than I would
have liked of monetary value, but he helped me to
realize the additional benefits I gained because of my
boldness of seeing my case through to the end. Fast
forward I am now running a successful business and
grateful to know I still have Shawn as a lawyer on
speed dial if needed!
If you are looking for someone that is knowledgeable,
down to earth and overall doesn't treat you like a
number.
I highly recommend you hire him!
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17 Jul, 2022 by Coco
Shawn Child’s
1. Quit when I did not want to settle.
2. Broke Client confidentiality with the defendant.
3. Made decisions for settlement etc—without asking me.
4. Did not know my case.
5. Refused to allow another more competent attorney assist—-he said, “I want all the money.”
6. He was not prepared none for trial.
7. He did not prepare me for trial.
8. The LawFirm has too many failures, it’s sad.
9 Stay away from him and his associates, partners.
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02 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Shawn Childs is one of the most well versed employment attorneys in the State of Arkansas. I highly recommend him on any legal matter as he is extremely professional.
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10 Oct, 2023 by E morel
Mary Carole Young behaved extremely unprofessional to my elderly parents once she saw we were African American was prejudice and disrespectful therefore we do not recommend her
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20 Nov, 2018 by Frank bailey
Bruce Munson is a hard hitting defense lawyer. Bruce always keeps his client informed about their case. Bruce has the ability to turn lemons into lemonade. I would not hesitate to have Bruce defend me in any situation.
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24 Mar, 2018 by Abigail brenneman
Hard working, ethical, and efficient firm
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21 Feb, 2024 by Haley smith
She dragged my divorce out with her client, my ex husband and tried to take my daughter from me for no reason other than to win the case. She’s a crooked woman that only wants her money and doesn’t care about what’s best for the child.
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26 May, 2023 by Keisha mcdawn
Does not present cases well. Worst attorney in a hurry to get the case closed and send her bills
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23 Jun, 2022 by Mike jones
He is a real good person and a wonderful lawyer he no his stuff. He is a good lawyer I would recommend him. Give him a call.
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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.
