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19 Feb, 2024 by Hope coulter
I highly recommend Darran ! He is one of the best there is . Narrissa is so helpful as well they are a great team ! Thank you for all you do Darran !
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19 Nov, 2023 by Lewis
*SINGLE FATHER AWARDED MAJORITY CUSTODY* Hands down the BEST attorney I’ve been represented by. He navigated seamlessly through my custodial civil case with my son and I was awarded custody in the end. Mind you there were several landmines he had to help me over and as stated before the man did it with ease! I would classify myself as a pretty intelligent being that is well versed and one who does extensive research when I don’t know or understand something. I say that to say this, I barely had ANY questions for Darran B during our face to face meetups due to him having all the answers to my questions already covered. The man is a wizard as it relates to law and was worth EVERY SINGLE DIME (plus some) for his efforts, knowledge and expertise. If you’re looking for a ASTOUNDING attorney that’s NOT going to exhaust your retainer, tell you lies take and purely advantage of the circumstances like ALOT of attorneys please look No further and RETAIN DARRAN BARHAUGH!! He’s the TRUTH . Words can’t express what he has done for me and my son. ALSO, I retained Darran B again for custody of my second 😂. Thank you brother for all of your efforts and persistence in saving GODS children and bringing families back together 1 client at a time. Highly NOBLE of a human, let alone an attorney!!!
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16 Nov, 2023 by Jharna ghai
I had the absolute pleasure working with Darran and his team. He’s very knowledge and goes above and beyond to help his clients. He always looks out for his client’s best interest. I highly recommend him and will definitely work with him in the near future.
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02 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
I how can I say thank you to a man who you meant so much to my family and me. When it comes to fight for custody of your child most custody battles go to the mother. Paul saw that I good dad who cares about his daughter and want what's best for her. I can go all day telling you the things that he did to ensure that my daughter stays with me, the tireless hours, the continuations, the meetings, sometime being frustrated good things are not going our way in court. But Paul stayed on target he also a brilliant trial lawyer. So I say to parents who want to win their custody of their child I recommend Paul Marzano he's affordable and he cares..
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07 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I have been a client of Paul since 2011. He has helped me in my three workers comp cases over the years. Paul is always available for questions concerns. Gets back to you right away. If he doesn't have the answers he will get them for you. Paul has gotten me the best returns on all my cases. I highly recommend Paul Marzano for your attorney needs.
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06 Sep, 2022 by Elizabeth
After two years, my divorce was just finalized today. And I couldn't think of anyone I would have wanted representing me but Paul Marzano. Despite my ex-husbands efforts to delay the divorce, Paul was diligent in keeping the proceedings on schedule; and he stayed in communication with me and the other lawyer at all times. It was a very stressful 2 years, but Paul was very patient and took the time to explain every step of the way. I would strongly recommend Paul as a divorce lawyer to anyone who needs representation.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Montoria mays
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15 Mar, 2024 by Melissa garcia
Great service from everyone there.
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10 Mar, 2024 by Shirlene coppage
She was very helpful and consistently answered all of my concerns and more from day 1.
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28 Jan, 2020 by Judy c
Atty. James Heri handled a couple of worker's comp cases for me. He was such a professional and so knowledgeable. I received updates regularly. I would and have referred people to him that need Excellent representation for injured workers. He cares so try him, you'll be happy you did. Thanks Attny. Heri
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01 Jan, 2020 by Kenneth
I have used James Heri for the past 14 years for legal work. I own two sub "S" corporations. One sub "S' has been in business for 34 years. The second business Jim advised on setting up the company. I continually use James for legal business counsel. He has also represented me family trust law. In all capacities he has given me excellent legal advise. If he cannot offer expertise legal advise he always has referrals for my specific concerns. Always has my recommendation.
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30 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
He's help my family and me on several occasions. He is a very hardworking attorney who will give your case his full attention to get the best outcome for you. I have also recommended him to friends.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Deanna cortese
We used Diaz Anselmo & Associates (specifically Tom and Jessica from the Naperville office) for the purchase of a new home. Tom is an amazing lawyer. He is extremely thorough, quick to reply, and kind. Jessica was also there every step of the way. She is organized and patient while answering all of our questions. We loved them so much, we used them to represent us in the sale of our townhome, and also recommended them to a family member for the sale of their house! While buying or selling a home is stressful, both Tom and Jessica made it easy. They are trustworthy, accommodating, and reliable people. They will be representing us any time we buy or sell in the future.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Sean y
John Brennock goes above and beyond for his clients - I couldn't be happier or ask for better counsel. Not only did he provide straightforward and professional representation during the purchase of a property, but he also provided me with some feedback and recommendations when I had some questions a few years later. I highly appreciate his services and recommend him highly.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Derek lumpkins
I was originally referred to John Brennock a year ago and found myself needing to talk to him again about a similar situation recently. Both times he was professional, patient, and knowledgeable. I especially appreciated how encouraging he was in getting me to understand the nuances of each situation and setting me on the right path to getting them resolved. I would recommend him to others and would work with him again.
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07 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
I had him represent me several years ago and that was the biggest mistake ever. He had me wait outside of the courtroom, he came back in 10 mins and said this is the best I can do. I ended up with a felony, which should have been a misdemeanor at best. He doesn't fight for you and if you believe what propaganda he feeds you, then it's on you. I warned you. This guy is a joke.
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28 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
Rarely returns phone calls. Rude and fast on phone the one time I did talk to him. Hire another atty. This guy is a joke.
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07 May, 2021 by Anonymous
We had requested a thirty minute consultation to determine the feasibility of our case in person. It went over to an hour long, which we were fine with paying for that extra time. What we were NOT fine with is that we were not consulted on any pre-meeting billable hours nor had we approved any pre-meeting billable hours. What turned from a small consultation fee turned into a nightmare of him sending us a bill for hours of "service" on the topic that probably took no more than 15 minutes for him to write up, totaling up to over $1,000! I have visited with several attorneys in the past on consultations and no one has EVER tried to bill me in this proposterous manner. I would never never hire or recommend this individual. Luckily, we fought that bill and sent him a check for the consultation fee amount which is what was the AGREED upon fee, after all, we did not HIRE him to do any research. IT WAS A CONSULTATION.
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18 Mar, 2015 by Justin
The worst experience I have ever had by far. Hired him to mediate maintenance issue. After paying for the initial consultation separately and then paying a retainer he never produced. Would not return phone calls. After his lack of professionalism I requested a refund of retainer, it took him three weeks to provide that and a billing statement where he had double charged me for the initial consultation and marked it half price and charged for bogus hours looking over paperwork related to the case. Took two weeks to get a response from him where he reconciled the double charge and reduced his hours billed. It cost me two months because I was referred here by a friend. Do not go here, you have been warned.
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17 Jul, 2018 by Cheryl
Mr Levy refused to see me in his office, he only communicated with me via email. He told me to gather all of my charts and information, asking specific questions of the documentation that I had no way of requesting from the individual providers. When I did send him charts, they sat unreviewed until I notified him I sent them. After months of this back and forth emailing, with Mr Levy often using terse, demanding language, still having never met him, he said that I needed to deposit funds to pay for an expert to review my charts to see if I even have a case. His number was $100,000. When I said I didn't have that much money, two months before the deadline to file, he said, "then there is nothing left to talk about."
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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:

  1. What is your experience with personal injury cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has handled cases involving similar injuries or accidents.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and what percentage they will take from any settlement or award.
  3. How long will my case take?
    While it's hard to predict, a lawyer can give you an estimate based on similar cases they’ve handled.
  4. How often do you take cases to trial?
    Some lawyers prefer to settle quickly, while others are more comfortable going to court if necessary.
  5. Will you personally handle my case?
    In larger firms, junior lawyers or paralegals may handle some aspects of your case, so it's important to know who will be managing your claim.
  6. Do you have references from past clients?
    Speaking with past clients can provide valuable insight into the lawyer’s effectiveness and professionalism.

How to Check the Credibility of a Personal Injury Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a credible personal injury lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Check bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any history of disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Online platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, and Google reviews can provide insight into the lawyer's reputation and client satisfaction.
  • Look at their track record: Review their experience with personal injury cases, particularly how many cases they’ve successfully resolved or taken to trial.
  • Ask for references: Credible lawyers should be willing to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their work.
  • Check professional memberships: Lawyers who are members of respected organizations, like the American Association for Justice (AAJ), often have a solid reputation in the field.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first meeting with a personal injury lawyer, prepare the following:

  • Detailed account of the accident: Write down everything you remember about the incident, including dates, times, and locations. Include any witnesses or police reports if available.
  • Medical records and bills: Bring any documentation of your injuries, treatments, and associated medical costs.
  • Insurance information: Provide your insurance details and any communication you’ve had with the other party’s insurance company.
  • Employment and income records: If your injury has impacted your ability to work, bring proof of lost wages or reduced earning capacity.
  • Photos or videos: If you have photos of the accident scene, your injuries, or property damage, bring them to your consultation.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions to ask, including how the lawyer will handle your case and what you can expect in terms of timeline and outcome.

By preparing thoroughly for your first consultation, you’ll help the lawyer understand your case more quickly and get a better sense of your legal options.

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