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09 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
Frank Lazzaro - Lutz, Shafranski, Gorman, Mahoney & Lazrzaro, Pa
Frank Lazzaro. Takes the time to listen, He responds immediately, and his staff is outstanding. They always go out of their way and are extremely helpful and responsive, which is a rarity in this day and age. Then five stars
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17 Jun, 2024 by Alex
Frank and his team did everything to make this legal process go smoothly for me. I am very pleased and thankful with the process and resolution!
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26 Jan, 2024 by Beth
Frank is exceptional at what he does and is definitely the best in the business. Upon our first consultation, I knew I was in good hands. Frank kept me up to date every step of the way and ensured I understood and was comfortable throughout the whole process. He was always available to answer my questions and his patience and kindness were a constant. During the trial, his confidence and professionalism set my mind at ease. Him and his firm are well known in the personal injury space and it was comforting to me as I witnessed this first hand. I would highly recommend Frank to anyone seeking a personal injury attorney. You won’t be disappointed!
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12 Sep, 2024 by Gabor
Above and Beyond.
John and his staff most notably Kristin where to the "T". in my injury case.
They are my first call or recommendation to anyone.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
While searching for an attorney, it was important for me to work with someone that would be a good listener and communicator, while guiding and supporting me throughout the process. In addition,
I needed someone that would be honest and accessible and who also employed a staff that would be able to answer any questions that I might have had. I was fortunate to find all of these qualities and more in
Mr. John Gorman. Mr.Gorman rose above my expectations and was able to turn an almost impossible situation into a highly successful one.
I strongly recommend John Gorman as your next attorney without any reservations. I guarantee you will be MORE than pleased with the outcome that he will provide for you. He is truly a skillful and effective attorney and a wonderful human being!
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03 Jul, 2024 by Jordyn
John and his team provided honest guidance throughout the whole duration of my case. He was available for questions and provided updates in a timely manner. I am very satisfied with the outcome of my case thanks to John.
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04 Jan, 2025 by Jermaine small
10 Dec, 2024 by Virginia toman
I can’t say enough good things about Nazario and Parente! They guided me and my husband through selling one home and buying another, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Tara is not just a great lawyer—she is kind, personable, and so easy to work with. Tara really took the time to understand what we needed and knew exactly when to push things forward and when to step back and let things happen naturally.
Any time I had a question (and I had a lot!), Tara (and Thales) were always available with clear, thoughtful answers. Their attention to detail and ability to navigate tricky situations made what could have been a stressful process feel so much easier.
Yes, in New Jersey, you *can* buy or sell a home without a lawyer—but, why would you when you could lawyers like Nazario and Parente in your corner? I’d recommend them to anyone!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie gerbo
I cannot express how grateful I am for the incredible support and expertise we received from Fetkey & Petty and their team. Mr. Fetkey handled my son’s case with unmatched professionalism, deep knowledge of the law, and an unwavering dedication to achieving the best outcome. His ability to navigate the complexities of juvenile law in New Jersey was remarkable.
Before finding Fetkey & Petty, we had another lawyer from Staten Island who completely dropped the ball on my son’s case. Feeling frustrated and hopeless, a friend recommended Fetkey & Petty to us, and it turned out to be the best thing that could have happened. From the moment we connected with their office, we knew we were in good hands.
Mr. Fetkey took the time to explain every step of the process to us, ensuring that we felt informed and reassured along the way. Thanks to his tireless efforts, we achieved the best possible result for my son, and for that, I will always be thankful.
I also want to give special recognition to Maria from their staff—she is simply amazing! Maria was compassionate, attentive, and always available to address our concerns. Her kindness and exceptional organizational skills made such a difference in easing the stress during this process.
If you’re looking for a legal team that genuinely cares and works tirelessly for their clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Fetkey & Petty. Mr. Fetkey and his team are an incredible group of people who deliver exceptional results.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Ada cedeno
John was very courteous and knowledgeable he took the time to explain everything he make sure that I understood everything.If I ever need legal service again which I hope won't happen I would definitely go to RAM .Thank you so much to the RAM team
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24 May, 2024 by Cassandra bidmead
Jay was very communicative and professional while handling my case with an insurance company after I fell on an unsalted sidewalk at my apartment a few years ago. I am pleased with the results and would recommend their services for anyone dealing with litigation due to an injury.
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24 May, 2024 by Joseph hughes
Hayley is very professional and prompt in her responses and communications . She is a pleasure to work with.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Ada cedeno
John was very courteous and knowledgeable he took the time to explain everything he make sure that I understood everything.If I ever need legal service again which I hope won't happen I would definitely go to RAM .Thank you so much to the RAM team
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24 May, 2024 by Cassandra bidmead
Jay was very communicative and professional while handling my case with an insurance company after I fell on an unsalted sidewalk at my apartment a few years ago. I am pleased with the results and would recommend their services for anyone dealing with litigation due to an injury.
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24 May, 2024 by Joseph hughes
Hayley is very professional and prompt in her responses and communications . She is a pleasure to work with.
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04 Jan, 2025 by Jermaine small
10 Dec, 2024 by Virginia toman
I can’t say enough good things about Nazario and Parente! They guided me and my husband through selling one home and buying another, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Tara is not just a great lawyer—she is kind, personable, and so easy to work with. Tara really took the time to understand what we needed and knew exactly when to push things forward and when to step back and let things happen naturally.
Any time I had a question (and I had a lot!), Tara (and Thales) were always available with clear, thoughtful answers. Their attention to detail and ability to navigate tricky situations made what could have been a stressful process feel so much easier.
Yes, in New Jersey, you *can* buy or sell a home without a lawyer—but, why would you when you could lawyers like Nazario and Parente in your corner? I’d recommend them to anyone!
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie gerbo
I cannot express how grateful I am for the incredible support and expertise we received from Fetkey & Petty and their team. Mr. Fetkey handled my son’s case with unmatched professionalism, deep knowledge of the law, and an unwavering dedication to achieving the best outcome. His ability to navigate the complexities of juvenile law in New Jersey was remarkable.
Before finding Fetkey & Petty, we had another lawyer from Staten Island who completely dropped the ball on my son’s case. Feeling frustrated and hopeless, a friend recommended Fetkey & Petty to us, and it turned out to be the best thing that could have happened. From the moment we connected with their office, we knew we were in good hands.
Mr. Fetkey took the time to explain every step of the process to us, ensuring that we felt informed and reassured along the way. Thanks to his tireless efforts, we achieved the best possible result for my son, and for that, I will always be thankful.
I also want to give special recognition to Maria from their staff—she is simply amazing! Maria was compassionate, attentive, and always available to address our concerns. Her kindness and exceptional organizational skills made such a difference in easing the stress during this process.
If you’re looking for a legal team that genuinely cares and works tirelessly for their clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Fetkey & Petty. Mr. Fetkey and his team are an incredible group of people who deliver exceptional results.
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03 May, 2019 by Nia
I was referred to Craig Aronow through a friend. Being young I did not know much about the law. From the moment I sat down with Craig he was nothing but patient, considerate, and super supportive. I was always filled with a ton of questions and he always got back to me within the same day to answer them. This I found super helpful when you have a million things running through your mind. I commend the fact Craig always gave me options to go about handling my case in different ways and always kept me informed. The best part was having him give me a list of things I needed to complete on my end from day one till the end. The list was always easy to understand for someone who knows nothing about the law. I also enjoyed working with his Paralegal Nyree, she went above and beyond to help me and always worked around my schedule to get things done. She was always readily available and as patient as they come! I Couldn’t have picked a better team to work with!
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08 Aug, 2018 by Rosie
I was in a car accident about 3 years ago. Not knowing what to do, we (my husband and I) were referred to Mr. Mr. Aronow through a family member. He came highly recommended and we were told he is the best you can get.
So we scheduled an appointment to meet with him at his firm. From the moment we met him and shook his hands, we knew we were in the right place, with the right person and in good hands. Mr. Aronow exuded such calmness, caringness, knowledge, respect and most importantly, professionalism during the meeting process. He listened to us contently and then explained to us in detail the whole process. He told us how everything will start from beginning to end. He showed us such compassion that was so greatly needed to get us through this ordeal.
As time went on, before the successful conclusion of the case, Mr. Aronow and his assistant, Nyree Benitez, were so accommodating whenever we had questions or concerns. They were always available to answer all of our questions and address our concerns that pertained to the case as it progressed. They were very prompt with answers and advice either through emails or phone calls. Nyree was such a huge help in this whole process. She was so wonderful with helping us with all of our concerns. She made us, especially me, feel at ease. She listened, assisted us with all of our needs and explained all of the litigation terminology that we were not accustomed to so well.
With such professionalism, we knew that this case was going to have a great outcome. Mr. Aronow did not fail us but fought for us. He was with us every step of the way which made it so much easier for us to stay calm. He guided us the best way possible and always kept us informed on the status of our case.
At the end, Mr. Aronow did such a fantastic job that we won our case. With him by our side, we were awarded a settlement that we were very happy with.
My husband and I would highly recommend Mr. Aronow to anyone whether it may be a family member, a friend or anyone who is looking for a great lawyer. He and his firm is the place to go to when you need proper guidance and professionals to represent you. His vast knowledge and humble demeanor was such an asset to our case.
We thank him so very much for all he has done for us.
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16 Mar, 2018 by Ana
After being involved in an auto accident in May 2013, I retained an attorney to handle my case. Almost a year later, I realized this attorney did not have the necessary experience the case warranted.
Then a highly respected colleague referred me to Craig Aronow and his firm. From the very start I could tell he had the experience I was looking for. He explained the whole process and not only did he answer every question and concern I had, but he went above and beyond my expectations. He told me to focus on my recovery and in getting better and that he would handle the rest. From that point forward, I knew in my heart I was in "good" hands and that this time I had the "right" attorney.
While we were ready to go to trial , Craig put his super litigation skills to work and was able to settle the case. I am so happy that he was to obtain more money than what I expected.
As far as the office staff, there are no words to express how pleased I am with Nyree Benitez, paralegal to Craig. She was very caring and was always concerned about my well-being. My calls and emails never once went unanswered. She did an outstanding job.
It was definitely a pleasure to work with Craig and his staff and I would recommend this firm to anyone with no doubts.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Kim
They try to make it right the wrong that occur to their clients by others!
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15 Jun, 2015 by Genie
John C Sinuk is an honest laywer who go out of his way to help and not charge you an arm and a leg. He always kept me informed of the status of my case both in writing and verbal communication. hes' the best lawyer I've known who handles my divorce case and my real estate transactions. He is my go to lawyer for legal advises.
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.8
156 Reviews
04 Dec, 2024 by Syleinaf. ly
21 Nov, 2024 by José alfaro
12 Aug, 2024 by Helen jorge
El 13 de junio se le pago a esta oficina el valor total de 3 mil dolares para una residencia por petition de esposo. Hoy 9 de agosto me dieron respuesta a las 4 de la tarde me pidieron mi cuenta de migración en línea (algo que considero privado) para depositar el caso a dos meses de haber pagado y al pendiente de ellos cada vez que pedian algo esta es la fecha que el caso no ha sido sometido. Queda en su responsabilidad si quieren seguir el proceso con esta oficina.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Edwin rojas
Lee is a good lawyer representing me and my family multiple times throughout the years
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12 Mar, 2024 by Gustavo perez
Los mejores abogados 100% recomendable 🙏
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13 Feb, 2024 by Janeth jaramillo
I’m thankful to Wishnic & Jerushalmy Law Group, particularly Lawyer, Eugene Wishnic. He has been amazing battling on my case. At the beginning, things were a little different. I felt like some of the staff members were not that friendly but throughout the years it turned into a positive experience for me. I would truly recommend this firm to others. I give 5 starts to this Law Firm after seeing all the effort and passion that Lawyer, Eugene Wishnic has for his clients and the work he does. He is very professional and enthusiastic. I would also thank Lawyer, Mark for his professionalism and for being a nice person to me.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Ada cedeno
John was very courteous and knowledgeable he took the time to explain everything he make sure that I understood everything.If I ever need legal service again which I hope won't happen I would definitely go to RAM .Thank you so much to the RAM team
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24 May, 2024 by Cassandra bidmead
Jay was very communicative and professional while handling my case with an insurance company after I fell on an unsalted sidewalk at my apartment a few years ago. I am pleased with the results and would recommend their services for anyone dealing with litigation due to an injury.
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24 May, 2024 by Joseph hughes
Hayley is very professional and prompt in her responses and communications . She is a pleasure to work with.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Glenis ninoska
Lo recomiendo al 100% gracias a su dedicación y excelencia mis hijos ya tienen status juvenil y muy pronto su residencia permanente , cuando es Dios quien te guía siempre te pone en manos de los mejores
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19 Nov, 2024 by Nineth ramos
Elegir The Allongo Law Firm fue la mejor decisión. Han sido eficientes y me han ayudado en el curso de mi caso. Mi hermano y yo hemos conseguido un estatus en este país gracias a ellos.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Darlenys valdez
This is the worst law firm ever. My mom has a case with them. When we call, they make appointments for my mom to talk to the lawyer, which never happens. You can never get in touch with them. After you pay your money, forget about getting a call from them or to keep working on your cases on time. If I could rate them less than zero, that would be the rate they deserve.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Melissa davey-wolf
Chris Portee, esq, is great at fighting for his clients. He helped me not only with the medical care and award after my accident but also credit resolution. Chris cares !
Diane, paralegal, is always available even at times while Chris is in court. Very impressive with their attention to your needs as a client and a human being.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Lamar_ plays
Business with victor went very smooth and efficiently
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11 Dec, 2024 by Syreeta morris
Roberto and Ralph thank you so much for representing me! Y’all are awesome and helped me in many ways. So anyone reading this definitely let these guys represent you because they get the job done
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19 Nov, 2024 by Glenis ninoska
Lo recomiendo al 100% gracias a su dedicación y excelencia mis hijos ya tienen status juvenil y muy pronto su residencia permanente , cuando es Dios quien te guía siempre te pone en manos de los mejores
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19 Nov, 2024 by Nineth ramos
Elegir The Allongo Law Firm fue la mejor decisión. Han sido eficientes y me han ayudado en el curso de mi caso. Mi hermano y yo hemos conseguido un estatus en este país gracias a ellos.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Darlenys valdez
This is the worst law firm ever. My mom has a case with them. When we call, they make appointments for my mom to talk to the lawyer, which never happens. You can never get in touch with them. After you pay your money, forget about getting a call from them or to keep working on your cases on time. If I could rate them less than zero, that would be the rate they deserve.
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21 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
My lawyer that I hired to represent me in a matter failed to communicate properly and keep me updated on what actions were being taken on my behalf.
I hired this attorney and this is my opinion and my opinion only.
He ended up giving up on my case leaving me to defend myself. I do not recommend him.
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13 May, 2020 by Raquel
Mr. Mascolo was very attentive ,extremely professional and knowledgeable. He was capable of answering all questions in a timely manor. I highly recommend his services.
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10 Aug, 2017 by Beverly
very good people and enjoyed their feedback on commumincation detail on the progress of my cast.
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21 Jan, 2020 by Shea
If you need a criminal defense or DWI lawyer, Jay Weinberg would not just be my top recommendation as legal counsel, but also is one of the most compassionate individuals I have ever met. After helping a family member with a DWI issue, I sought out Jay Weinberg's help with a criminal charge, and after speaking to this gentleman for 10 minutes I immediately saw why my family member had recommended him to me. Mr Weinberg's professionalism can only be matched by his genuine concern for the people he helps, and this degree of excellent extends to the people working with and for Mr Weinberg. The results of my case turned out better than I could have hoped for and I owe it all to Jay Weinberg and the wonderful people in his office. If you need legal representation for a mistake you've made in your life, do not compound your mistake by going to anyone other than Jay Weinberg.
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01 Jun, 2018 by Volodymyr k.
I was recommended by my friend Jay A. Weinberg. I am pleased with his work with DWI. I recommend this lawyer He knows his case. Thank you, Jey A. Weinberg.
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11 Sep, 2017 by Irfan
Was charged with a fake ID. Jay got me the minimum possible fine no jail time / community service. Excellent attorney, would highly recommend.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Neverlin figuereo
Exceptional legal guidance through tough times. My family used recently used Mr. Dibenedetto services and we couldn't be happier. From the initial consultation to the resolution of our case the level of professionalism and support we received was unparalleled. Mr. Dibenedetto office kept us informed every step of the way and he was always telling us that if we had any questions, not to hesitate to contact him. Mr. Dibenedetto provided support and guidance that helped us to feel comfortable throughout the process. I wholeheartedly recommend their services.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Vincent ricciardi
STAY VERY FAR AWAY, money is the only thing that they care about, currently in an arbitration with them as we speak. You informed me to reach out directly, but yesterday you called me getting loud and bullying me telling me to never contact you again and to see you at arbitration and hung up on me.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Aj reynolds
These guys are great handled a couple of my traffic tickets was very pleased and handled one of my personal cases this guy is the real life call Saul if you know what I mean 😭
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03 Mar, 2022 by Jason h.
Fania is a genuine and helpful attorney. After listening to my situation she expressed that she won't be the best to help me but later referred two attorneys for me to reach out. Both of her referrals were excellent and I decided to retain one of them. Really appreciate her!
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18 Nov, 2021 by Jeff v
I hired Ms. Veksler in October of 2021 to assist me with responding to a motion pertaining to my post-divorce settlement case. After speaking with Ms Veksler on the phone for about 30 minutes and later meeting her in person for 1.5 hours, as per our agreement I was expecting to be updated on the progress of this case.
I made it clear to Ms. Veksler this was a time-sensitive case with approximately 1.5 weeks left to the motion. A week after my meeting with Ms Veksler and several unsuccessful attempts to reach her via the phone, email, and text messages I received a call from her secretary scheduling a call on October 8 at 11 am which was canceled by her secretary on the same few minutes before the call. After several more text messages and phone calls she called at 6:30 pm on Friday and was extremely rude and obnoxious over the phone saying things “you are not paying me enough to get my full attention”, “I have other clients besides you and if you need VIP treatment you need to pay me more”. Her tone of voice and manner of speech were extremely unprofessional as she was chastising me instead of legally representing me and offering professional advice and support. It was clear at that point after a week there was no progress made on my case since she was proposing on the case something we have never discussed.
Moreover, Ms. Veksler didn’t thoroughly study my settlement agreement since she was proposing things that contradicted what was discussed prior. Since she kept talking about her fees more often than my case, I realized she wants to drag this case for a long as possible. I had already paid a retainer and the time discussing my case was fully covered, so her bringing up “how little I am paying her” is a baseless argument because those were the fees that were quoted by her.
At the end of a contentious conversation on Friday, October 8th after my repeated requests we finally agreed that Ms. Veksler would send an email to the other party’s attorney by the following Monday, October 11, 2021. This never happened and no explanation was provided. Having wasted a lot of my time with no results, I decided to no longer use Ms. Veksler’s services of which she was notified on Monday, October 11, and hired a different attorney, outside the network. who I am extremely happy with.
Ms Veksler ended up charging me for 5 hours of service including communication (verbal and written) with another attorney which she wasn’t able to prove. She claims to have drafted an email, for which I paid but she refused to send it to me.
To sum up, hiring Ms. Veksler was one of the most aggravating experiences for several reasons:
- Failure to make progress on my case before the agreed due date
- Extremely unprofessional communication style, both aggressive and demeaning
- Lack of updates or any approximate timelines when things were supposed to be done
- Repeated mentioning of money, either alluding to her other higher-paying clients or just procrastinating to use up the retainer on empty conversations and not on actual work
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03 Oct, 2020 by John
I was falsely accused, by my Ex Wife, of Domestic Violence and threatened by her for months prior to the false claim that she would "have me removed' and suck her "Pitbull Lawyer" on me..Well I hired Fania and she was the Pitbull Lawyer in my case. She dissected all of the lies and false accusation being used against me and conducted herself aggressively in seek of truth and justice in proving my innocence and won the case.
The opposing Lawyer was no match for Fania and I will definitely retain her again and highly recommend her service
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28 Oct, 2024 by J l
The receptionist is amazing.. the lawyer on the other hand has been a terrible experience. My closing date has been pushed back more then twice. My wife and I ask over and over again if they need us to help to push things along just to be ignored in the email thread. No one is communicating or giving us answers into why and when the actual closing will be (yes still in the process of dealing with these people) we are 1st time sellers and I would not suggest these lawyers .
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12 Sep, 2024 by Jawad f
Diane Hoagland and her team were very professional in helping handle a complex estate through the probate process. Communications were always quick and advice was sound.
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04 May, 2023 by Wilson cruz
Go to another law firm!! Do not use them. My attorney was JEFFREY CZUBA. This had been the worst experience I have had with a law firm ever. It's impossible to reach him ,I have left over 6 messages for him to return my calls . Mind you he is representing me a as the defendant.They do not respond.
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28 Oct, 2024 by J l
The receptionist is amazing.. the lawyer on the other hand has been a terrible experience. My closing date has been pushed back more then twice. My wife and I ask over and over again if they need us to help to push things along just to be ignored in the email thread. No one is communicating or giving us answers into why and when the actual closing will be (yes still in the process of dealing with these people) we are 1st time sellers and I would not suggest these lawyers .
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Jawad f
Diane Hoagland and her team were very professional in helping handle a complex estate through the probate process. Communications were always quick and advice was sound.
Read more
04 May, 2023 by Wilson cruz
Go to another law firm!! Do not use them. My attorney was JEFFREY CZUBA. This had been the worst experience I have had with a law firm ever. It's impossible to reach him ,I have left over 6 messages for him to return my calls . Mind you he is representing me a as the defendant.They do not respond.
Read more
28 Oct, 2024 by J l
The receptionist is amazing.. the lawyer on the other hand has been a terrible experience. My closing date has been pushed back more then twice. My wife and I ask over and over again if they need us to help to push things along just to be ignored in the email thread. No one is communicating or giving us answers into why and when the actual closing will be (yes still in the process of dealing with these people) we are 1st time sellers and I would not suggest these lawyers .
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Jawad f
Diane Hoagland and her team were very professional in helping handle a complex estate through the probate process. Communications were always quick and advice was sound.
Read more
04 May, 2023 by Wilson cruz
Go to another law firm!! Do not use them. My attorney was JEFFREY CZUBA. This had been the worst experience I have had with a law firm ever. It's impossible to reach him ,I have left over 6 messages for him to return my calls . Mind you he is representing me a as the defendant.They do not respond.
Read more
28 Oct, 2024 by J l
The receptionist is amazing.. the lawyer on the other hand has been a terrible experience. My closing date has been pushed back more then twice. My wife and I ask over and over again if they need us to help to push things along just to be ignored in the email thread. No one is communicating or giving us answers into why and when the actual closing will be (yes still in the process of dealing with these people) we are 1st time sellers and I would not suggest these lawyers .
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Jawad f
Diane Hoagland and her team were very professional in helping handle a complex estate through the probate process. Communications were always quick and advice was sound.
Read more
04 May, 2023 by Wilson cruz
Go to another law firm!! Do not use them. My attorney was JEFFREY CZUBA. This had been the worst experience I have had with a law firm ever. It's impossible to reach him ,I have left over 6 messages for him to return my calls . Mind you he is representing me a as the defendant.They do not respond.
Read more
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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:
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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.
