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02 Mar, 2017 by Matt
I am a severely disabled veteran. I had a surgical implant that was supposed to block pain, but after seven months it made my pain much worse. I live in Knoxville, TN. I contacted his father, Sidney, and he told me to call Chris in Memphis. Chris called me personally later in the day, even after his office was closed. He listened to my story, never cut me off, and after that, we decided together after he explained the letter of the law for medical malpractice that my case would not be able to win. He did not hang up, he listened to me about what happened to me in combat, and was like a close friend. He got me to hang on, as I have some upcoming appointments and procedures. He is a kind, down to earth, caring man. We spoke like we were old friends, and he thanked me for my service to our country (22 years as a Green Beret). He also told me that if I ever needed to just talk or vent, call him. He is an awesome individual who is not just out for money, he really cares about you. I am going to have a pain pump put in in about a month, and I am going to start travelling. I told him I would like to go through Memphis on my way to Louisiana, and I would really like to have lunch with him. He told me he would love to have lunch with me and hear some of my stories. I wish there were more people in the world like him. I would highly recommend him in Memphis, and his father Sidney in Knoxville. He really gave me the hope to hang on. Thank you Chris from the bottom of my heart. I will be in Memphis one day and I will call you ahead of time to fit lunch in to your schedule. God Bless you and your family. Thank you for treating me the way that you did. You are a rare breed nowadays, keep up the good work.
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11 Apr, 2014 by Adrian
Christopher Gilreath is not dedicated to his clients. Chris informed me 3 years into my automobile accident that he could no longer represent me because "the opposing side is forcing me to withdraw as your attorney ". I really thought I heard him wrong, but he acknowledged that I heard him correctly. Be very aware of his promise to commit to you and represent you with vigor. He gave a very vague explanation that we disagreed on issues. I only heard and spoke with him twice and there wasn't any type of disagreement. I gave him full reign over negotiating my case. He was the attorney (I trusted him to be what he promised). BTW the defendants insurance company had already claimed 80% liability and had already repaired my truck.
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25 Oct, 2011 by Dorothy
Mr Gilreath offered advice to me when I was at my wits end. He gave me answers that were clear and precise. He spoke to me with respect and was not at all condescending. I would highly recommend him to anyone with legal matters that need responsible, expert attention.
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30 May, 2022 by Natarra simsserantes
She is awesome! She tells it straight. Be honest and she can win your case. I won a case against the State and for child visitation and child support.
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10 Sep, 2020 by Autumn bridges (excalibur)
MARTHA IS AN AWESOME FAMILY LAWYER AND IS HELPING ME GET TO SEE MY GRANDBABY
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02 Aug, 2020 by Randy curtis
06 May, 2024 by Katrina williamson
10 Dec, 2023 by Ashtyn turnbow
Ms. Greene-Campbell is an excellent mediator. Very fair, reasonable, and kind.
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02 Apr, 2023 by A. king
06 May, 2024 by Katrina williamson
10 Dec, 2023 by Ashtyn turnbow
Ms. Greene-Campbell is an excellent mediator. Very fair, reasonable, and kind.
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02 Apr, 2023 by A. king
06 May, 2024 by Katrina williamson
10 Dec, 2023 by Ashtyn turnbow
Ms. Greene-Campbell is an excellent mediator. Very fair, reasonable, and kind.
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02 Apr, 2023 by A. king
06 May, 2024 by Katrina williamson
10 Dec, 2023 by Ashtyn turnbow
Ms. Greene-Campbell is an excellent mediator. Very fair, reasonable, and kind.
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02 Apr, 2023 by A. king
06 May, 2024 by Katrina williamson
10 Dec, 2023 by Ashtyn turnbow
Ms. Greene-Campbell is an excellent mediator. Very fair, reasonable, and kind.
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02 Apr, 2023 by A. king
06 May, 2024 by Katrina williamson
10 Dec, 2023 by Ashtyn turnbow
Ms. Greene-Campbell is an excellent mediator. Very fair, reasonable, and kind.
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02 Apr, 2023 by A. king
15 Dec, 2022 by K k
26 Jul, 2021 by Jim hicks
Long time client. Great folks.
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26 Jun, 2021 by Valarie harris
I have worked with Steve Elliot for years as my business attorney and he’s excellent!!
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15 Dec, 2022 by K k
26 Jul, 2021 by Jim hicks
Long time client. Great folks.
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26 Jun, 2021 by Valarie harris
I have worked with Steve Elliot for years as my business attorney and he’s excellent!!
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15 Dec, 2022 by K k
26 Jul, 2021 by Jim hicks
Long time client. Great folks.
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26 Jun, 2021 by Valarie harris
I have worked with Steve Elliot for years as my business attorney and he’s excellent!!
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21 Aug, 2023 by Mobile auto detailing get mad
Our company has been using the great resources of Frazer Law for over 5 years. They are always very helpful with making the best decisions for our company. No matter how big or small the need is they are always there for our best interest.
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31 Mar, 2023 by Brad glossinger
Very fragmented in approach, change attorneys with out notice ad doesn't follow up with clients
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21 Aug, 2023 by Mobile auto detailing get mad
Our company has been using the great resources of Frazer Law for over 5 years. They are always very helpful with making the best decisions for our company. No matter how big or small the need is they are always there for our best interest.
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31 Mar, 2023 by Brad glossinger
Very fragmented in approach, change attorneys with out notice ad doesn't follow up with clients
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21 Aug, 2023 by Mobile auto detailing get mad
Our company has been using the great resources of Frazer Law for over 5 years. They are always very helpful with making the best decisions for our company. No matter how big or small the need is they are always there for our best interest.
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31 Mar, 2023 by Brad glossinger
Very fragmented in approach, change attorneys with out notice ad doesn't follow up with clients
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06 Jul, 2024 by Inmate 3772-128
So, I'm writing from jail, so if any of this is edited, I don't really have any control of that. I'm giving this chick five stars because I don't want to screw up her average, but I have to say she is the absolute worst criminal defense attorney in Nashville. I was arrested last year for disorderly conduct and public intoxication. Because of Ms. Cane's absolute lack of professionalism and incompetence, I was convicted of murder! Her closing arguments (exact quote): "Uh, I don't really know what's going on here, or who this guy is, but I think he killed someone. You should send him to jail." The jury took ten minutes to convict. She actually had the gall to show up to the prison and ask for the rest of her fee.
THIS POST HAS BEEN APPROVED BY THE TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
Riverbend Maximum Security Institution (RMSI)
INMATE 3772-128
CHARGE: DISORDERLY CONDUCT, PUBLIC INTOXICATION
FINDING: MURDER, GUILTY AT TRIAL
ELIGIBLE FOR PAROLE: 2045
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10 Jun, 2020 by Confidential client
She was the only attorney that I could get to take my case and let me make the payments on it that I needed to. I just couldn't pay it all upfront and she was so kind to let me pay as I got it. She defended my case as if I had paid her every dime upfront. she is very caring and personable. She even had prayer with me.
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31 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Attorney Cane Had Helped me with a case in Memphis,TN a couple of yrs ago, she was Amazing, then a family member got into some trouble in Nashville, TN we hired her for that case also, she was Amazing, I found out that she is also practicing in Dallas. this Attorney has the sweetest spirit, and very reachable. If you need a GOOD Attorney she's the Best!!
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17 Jan, 2023 by Mareka stewart
18 May, 2019 by Tim
I hired attorney Corletra Mance on February 1 2019 as my attorney . She is Very unprofessional she doesn’t deserve a 1 star rating. I am disabled and hired her to help me get split custody and to save my son’s life. She stated 1,500 dollars retainer fee that she allowed me to break down to three payments. I started first payment on February 1 2019 and finished payment plan on April 5 2019. I filed the petition on my own also she didn’t show up to court didn’t send someone else from her firm I had to speak for myself. Since I felt like she wasn’t doing anything to help me so I fired her and now she stated that I still owe her $1,500 dollars for the retainer fee. Thank God I kept copies of my receipts. I wouldn’t recommend her at all to anyone!
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04 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Clayton consulted me on a bankruptcy that I desired to file. I went into his office and met with him. He advised me about the class I needed to complete prior to filing. He was very polite and courteous however he lacked professionalism when it came to follow up. I contacted Mr. Clayton several times to follow up on my next step as instructed. He was running for a political office was out of his office and unavailable and never returned my calls. I had been behind on my mortgage and other household expenses and needed legal counsel and Mr. Clayton did not provide me with the professionalism I needed through communication on how to resolve my legal matter. I would not recommend this lawyer.
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01 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I would not recommend Terry Clayton due to his lack of professionalism and inability to communicate effectively. I hired Mr. Clayton on an investment deal. His lack of knowledge experience and competence cost me the deal. When I expressed my concerns to his law office. Mr. Clayton suspended all communication.
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16 Oct, 2015 by Brandon
I was sued by a client for silent hung that I did not do. Attorney Clayton successfully litigated the case in my defense as a result of his expertise, the case was dismissed and justice prevailed. Since that time he has been our company attorney. I must say that in every case I have been more than pleas with his knowledge of the law. I have recommended him to colleagues, friends and family alike.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
This lawyer failed to protect me from the hands of my abusive husband. She failed in many areas and didn’t protect me from getting wrongfully charged with assault when I was the one assaulted. I was then harassed by the man for the next year without much I could do about it because he claimed I broke an oop by letting his kids contact him. Worst lawyer ever for anyone in an abusive relationship. You won’t be protected, helped, or represented well at all. She simply doesn’t have the time or care to help you.
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25 Apr, 2023 by Larry
Ms. Coleman is smart and quick on her feet. She has lots of trial experience, and it shows. She listened to me when I was going through a hard time and she was appointed to me. She didn't have to work hard as hard for me as her other clients. She knew I couldn't pay and she didn't care. She still fought for me and was able to get me out of jail. Highly recommend.
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22 May, 2022 by Anonymous
This attorney seemed more focused on her upcoming election she was running for than to meet the needs of her client. She treated me like just another number and gave off a snooty vibe like she thought she was better than me. She did not accept my concerns as valid and dismissed my requests on how to represent my defense. I hope no one else who needs quality representation gets stuck with this attorney.
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05 Aug, 2013 by Michelle
Not impressed. I was highly recommended to Joe Baker by others, but they hype did not live up to his performance in my case. He was very hard to get in touch with, and rarely returned calls. He did nothing to prepare for my case until the day before we had court!
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21 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Went to Mr. Baker with DUI 2nd charge and about 5 others. All charges were either dropped or reduced. My fines were next to nothing and spent no time in jail other than the initial arrest. He is very good at his job and will get you the results you want. Not great at keeping you informed though. Overall I was more than satisfied with the results.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Jasmine taylor
22 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly phillips
They have been amazing working with my daddy getting things done to make sure he being taken care of! Would highly recommend them
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22 Oct, 2024 by Tracy teal
23 Oct, 2024 by Jasmine taylor
22 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly phillips
They have been amazing working with my daddy getting things done to make sure he being taken care of! Would highly recommend them
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22 Oct, 2024 by Tracy teal
23 Oct, 2024 by Jasmine taylor
22 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly phillips
They have been amazing working with my daddy getting things done to make sure he being taken care of! Would highly recommend them
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22 Oct, 2024 by Tracy teal
20 Sep, 2024 by Amanda hawk
Harold Rushton and The Rushton Law Firm were truly amazing to work with and would use them again for any advise or legal issues in the future. Harold was extremely responsive to answering any of my questions, gave wonderful advise and his expertise was invaluable.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy anderson
26 Jul, 2024 by Bianca h.
I have been working with this firm for more than a year now. They have been flexible, courteous, and very communicative and responsive via email. Tara and Stacey have been a great help and provide excellent customer service!
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16 May, 2022 by Ronald fisher
I was a passenger and a head-on collision I was airlifted to Vanderbilt State University trauma center she contacted me Miss guthridge she failed to go to the jailhouse right beside her office and file paperwork with the man that was arrested it took two and a half years to get any settlement I was almost killed I got out of a $25,000 liability insurance that he had I was supposed to get $16,000 she got the rest instead she held my money in escrow and told me that it never came and loaned me money from her husband's loan company at $2,000 interest on every 2000 she got all the money I got nothing supposed to be a $750,000 settlement the man has a lien on him she's I know has been collecting my money I haven't got another penny she told me never to contact her again and I know she's been ripping me off I did not contact her she contacted me she is worthless and she's been robbing me I know there's two or two stimulus checks where's my money I was made to select a rating there was no zero so I had to pick one star if there was a zero I would pick 0
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07 Feb, 2019 by Gail
I am grateful that I fought her as a lawyer. She is caring and care about your case . She stated and I love this every case I treat the same. There is know respectful person in my case. I know she will win . My case and get the most for my injury.
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09 Jun, 2015 by Jen
I have had to contact this lawyer repeatedly to get action on my case. This was after she messed up my appeal and I had to refile my disability case. She does not return phone calls or emails. Their phone system only goes to voicemail and it is nearly impossible to get a real person on the phone. She was recommended to me by a trusted attorney who was not aware of her current actions. Now I am in a position trying to find another lawyer to take over my case. She might be a good lawyer for other things, but clearly social security disability is not her strong suite.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Felipe pena
I hired this firm to represent me on an appeal concerning a ruling in juvenile court. I won the ruling but the attorney by the name of Emily Pfeiffer, who is no longer active at that firm did not follow up to see where I stood on child support payments, and when the final order was drafted the court was under the misconception that I owed $10,000 and back child support which was paid at the end of the year prior which put me back in a position to owe child support arrears that I’ve paid already. Also, I was very detailed at what I wanted because opposing party was going after me for $20,000 in attorney fees I also wanted appealed and council representing this firm did not follow up, but left me in a position to get garnished by opposing counsel and insisted on me paying my $800 balance with them , when the job was not finished. Rob turner also garnished my wages for the remaining balance and left me in debt, leaving me to do my own footwork and prove to the court that my arrears have been paid would cost me three years of wasted time. I reached out to the firm to have this taken care of on a walk-in visit and a lady by the name of Chelsea Stevenson literally lied to me for six months straight after I explained to her in detail what was going on and had me under the impression things were getting resolved when they weren’t. After I had proven my case to the court as of recent I sent the firm the updated order to show them. I wasn’t lying and have not heard from any of them, that is “Rob Turner“ and “Chelsea Stevenson“ who used a personal matter concerning my ex-wife as leverage from me not contacting her and said I was harassing her after she surrendered her personal number to me to keep in contact with her. Absolutely nothing got done, and this firm is horrible in representing anyone, but will take your money immediately. I paid the full balance for 3 court appearances on my appeal in the dollar amount of $4000. This firm should be shut down by the bar of Nashville literally . They’re a bunch of liars and do not have the people in their best interest. They care nothing of their reputation and left me in shambles. Rob Turner is a crook and from what I was told he had a life-threatening accident from falling off of balcony, it’s not to wonder if someone threw him off with how his firm conducts business.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
The firm at Nashville Law was extremely professional, informative and attentive to my case. They worked hard to help me get the best results! I definitely recommend them. They did an amazing job for me!
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11 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Go find other representation. Do not let the urgency of your situation put yourself into a position where you end up further taken advantage of by this law firm. $11k down the drain, crappy advice, lack of engagement & communication, missed deadlines and they contributed to prolonged suffering. The attorney I was assigned was nowhere to be found unless it was to bill another retainer and receive that $$$.
Do NOT hire these people. They will manipulate you and string you along to get more money for themselves with zero results for your case. They did it to me and every other person here warning you.
This office is also known as Nashville Law Offices, PLLC, Turner Law Offices, and Robert J. Turner & Associate.
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05 Dec, 2015 by James
I hired Ms. O'Brien for a very simple task. It wound up involving only a few phone calls and emails to another attorney, probably totalling under 2 hours. I provided all the documentation to be conveyed to Hughes & Coleman, the plaintiff's lawyers. They had refused to answer calls from my business manager, likely because she wasn't a lawyer. Besides charging me 20 minutes to read or send each email, she added in $250 for an hour of "research." I know this is standard practice for the legal profession, but that doesn't make it right. When questioned, she claimed clients want their lawyers to be knowledgeable. Well, of course they do, but shouldn't that knowledge be acquired in school and through experience? It's not right to make the client pay for their OJT (On the Job Training). As a piano teacher, if I don't know something, I don't stop the lesson and go look it up while the child sits there. I'm expected to have the skills to perform my job. At the very least, she could have had her $90/hour paralegal do the research. I'm not happy with the $800 bill and won't use her again.
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18 May, 2023 by Mike
My girlfriend was rear ended two years ago and suffered injuries and we hired Bart Durham to handle our case. It’s occurred to us that they have a “formula” for the maximum amount of money they are predicted to receive prior to settlement hearing. Our lawyer accidentally said “we can get you 20k” when the offer from the insurance company was 70k, so computed with my layman’s math (50k for the medical bills, and 20k to chop up) which reads to me as about 13k roughly. Where did the “20k” blurt out come from? How would he possibly have a predictive number like 7k more due to medical bills being negotiated? I’m convinced they have already been in contact with our medical billers and have a rough idea of how much they can chisel them out of. Essentially Bart Durham is the ones who have the leverage to determine how much we receive of the award, not the opposing insurance company. We opted for a trial but I highly doubt they will let it go that far. Maybe we tell them to goto hell and not get a dime.
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02 Dec, 2021 by Faisal
It has been 8 months they toke my case and disappeared on me, I don’t even know where my case is at!!!
A lady run the red light and hit me.
Please avoid Bart Durham, it’s all a scam. I will update you here if I hear something from them.
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25 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Bart Durham and his team are some of the finest around. They will be honest and get you the help and justice you deserve.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Brendan
I had a consultation with this guy, and he was quick to anger. He was rude, and would interrupt me mid sentence with lines like, "I think you have a misunderstanding of situation" I would attempt to explain and he would again cut me off. After I said something, he would then use like like, "So what you're telling me is. . ." and then he would insert argumentative statements that were not what I just said or a correct summary of my talking points. I would stay away from this guy, he seems verbally abusive to his clients, which might result in him putting blame on his clients when he failed them.
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20 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I had a consultation with him but he was so rude, interrupt me many times and doesn't even listen carefully to what I said. I regret talking to him.
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24 Jun, 2022 by Mary
I met Cathryn Armistead after seeking counsel regarding matters concerning my mother, who could not represent herself. Ms. Armistead convinced me that I needed a conservatorship on my mother. She claimed that she would assist me with the conservatorship and any matter connected to it once it was obtained. Before hiring Ms. Armistead, her level of communication was high. After being hired and after she was paid, communication almost ceased entirely.
Several months after the conservatorship was granted, I hired Ms. Armistead in an attempt to seek justice for my mother, who had been the victim of neglect in an area nursing home. Once again, Ms. Armistead communicated with me regularly until a retainer was signed for services. After not hearing from her, I reached out via email to ask about a timeline for starting proceedings; I did not receive a response to my email. I then reached out to her office about the matter and was told by her paralegal that she did not know and would speak to Ms. Armistead concerning my question. I never heard back from her office and Ms. Armistead. I reached out again, but still no response.
After repeated attempts via email and phone to contact Ms. Armistead, I reported her to the Board of Professional Responsibility of the Supreme Court of Tennessee. After receiving a copy of the complaint, it was only then that I heard from her by mail. I received a letter terminating our contract because "our relationship had deteriorated" This is not about a "relationship" but business. I understand that it is within an attorney's right to decide not to pursue a case. It is grossly unethical and bad business not to communicate with a client.
I knew Ms. Armistead had her faults in communicating, but given the fact that it was a case of nursing home neglect of a loved one, I thought she would step up. It is inexcusable to keep a client waiting when time is wasted on helping an elderly patient (my mother) in a nursing home. Unfortunately, it appears that Ms. Armistead is only interested in obtaining new business without doing the work she is hired to do and doesn't like being held accountable, given that she terminated our "relationship" after being reported. It says a lot about a person when they are incapable of offering an apology for wasting your time and resources.
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03 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
hired, she failed to support an innocent client, requested my case file information returned- never acknowledged the request. she sent a letter stating investigation of logistics near my residence, Never bothered to meet with me at my home, raised a concern as to the validity of the investigation. Friends and professionals questioned integrity of how the case was managed, -- rather mismanaged.
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29 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I had found Jonathan Wardle through an online search and spoke with his receptionist and then Jonathan about an urgent legal matter I needed help with. We came to the agreement that I would pay them to write a letter on my behalf about the issue with some back and forth with the other party, and if we couldnt come to an agreement with them he would take my case on contingency at 25-30%.
He blew off writing my letter to the other party for two weeks until I had to remind him that I paid him to do a service. Once he finally wrote the letter, he told he my case wasnt worth his time, and that if I wanted to pursue the matter further, I would need to pay him up front to represent me in court, which completely goes against what was said me about taking the case on contingency if the letter didnt work.
I asked for a refund for what I paid him, and he refused and told me not to contact him anymore.
Do not do business with him.
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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.
