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18 Feb, 2020 by Robert
I contacted Chris Albiston about a speeding ticket I received in 2019. Chris and his team did an excellent job of reviewing my case and exploring all avenues possible for my situation. After my consultation I felt very comfortable and reassured that he would provide me the best possible result. In court, not only was Chris well prepared & professional but he was also extremely knowledgeable. I could tell he was truly fighting to help me in the best way he could. He ultimately helped me get my ticket dismissed. I was exceedingly pleased with my experience and would highly recommend Chris to anyone seeking professional advice.
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25 Jun, 2016 by Marissa
If you need a personal injury lawyer, Ms. Beth Ufkes and Mr. Michael Goodove are exceptional lawyers. They are well-versed on all insurances, especially Tri-care. It was nice not to have to worry about medical bills on top of recovering from an accident! They kept us informed, are very knowledgeable and thorough, and did a superb job representing our daughter. We know we could not have found a better team!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Dan “the piercing” man
They handled my case expertly
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30 May, 2024 by Ashley atkins
Mr. Washburn and his team provided excellent counsel and helped us navigate a challenging situation advantageously. We are very thankful for his guidance!
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08 May, 2024 by Vinez campbell
Mr. Kevin Sharp is a Rockstar Attorney! He is a tireless and zealous advocate, a man of integrity, compassion, and impressive results. Kevin’s knowledge and experience in Personal Injury Law cannot be matched. Beth, Mr. Sharp’s Paralegal is kind, responsive and she kept me informed throughout the entire process. You would be fortunate, as I was, to be represented by this firm. May God bless you Kevin and Beth for all your hard work; I cannot thank you enough!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Dan “the piercing” man
They handled my case expertly
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30 May, 2024 by Ashley atkins
Mr. Washburn and his team provided excellent counsel and helped us navigate a challenging situation advantageously. We are very thankful for his guidance!
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08 May, 2024 by Vinez campbell
Mr. Kevin Sharp is a Rockstar Attorney! He is a tireless and zealous advocate, a man of integrity, compassion, and impressive results. Kevin’s knowledge and experience in Personal Injury Law cannot be matched. Beth, Mr. Sharp’s Paralegal is kind, responsive and she kept me informed throughout the entire process. You would be fortunate, as I was, to be represented by this firm. May God bless you Kevin and Beth for all your hard work; I cannot thank you enough!
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05 Oct, 2024 by Charles and kristina
Best federal marine lawfirm around. Great people.
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20 Oct, 2023 by Sunny santa ana
Great
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23 Dec, 2024 by Hayley tancak
I work with Liz Glaize and the rest of the Rutter Mills team and it was great! I didn't have to worry about a thing, them knew their jobs and did them well. Highly recommend a knowledge team as them!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Ronald reaves
Great job.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Juanita hopkins
Everything during my time here was stellar. I appreciate the professionalism and care for your clients. Thank you for firmly comforting my heart and caring for myself and family.
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07 May, 2021 by Colleen cherry
Everything has been taken care of to my satisfaction during this difficult time.
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09 Mar, 2021 by Miles monroe
18 Oct, 2020 by Robert lagreca
Very good customer service.
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07 Dec, 2024 by John eley
04 Dec, 2024 by Carlita “stove lady” belgrove
Do not use him as a defense attorney. He can't be trusted and he is not going to have your back when your life is on the line. Find a defense attorney who has some balls and will present your case the way it should and will fight for your case like it's his life.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Bee
I just want to take the time out to thank Decker Law Firm, Cole Robert’s specifically for getting my case dismissed! I’m so grateful I came in contact with Attorney Roberts. He is here for all your concerns and needs! You have came to the right place! Thanks again Attorney Roberts!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Lexus ridenhour
Fast efficient! Extremely professional and courteous ask for Stacey B! She has been a pleasure!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Crissy
Cooper Hurley came highly recommended. And now I know why. If I have a question it doesn’t go unanswered. I know I’m in good hands. Thank you Stacey, Tara & Jim for handling things with so much care and for being so supportive. Choose Cooper Hurley, Today!
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02 Dec, 2024 by Sammantha pierson
Thank you so much for everything! You guys have helped me with two cases already, and Ms. Stacey Brooks is amazing! She helped me a lot and took the time to get all my information, very understanding and caring, and a movie lover too! Thank you again Ms. Brooks, Ms. Rooksby my paralegal, and Mr. Hurley my attorney.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Lexus ridenhour
Fast efficient! Extremely professional and courteous ask for Stacey B! She has been a pleasure!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Crissy
Cooper Hurley came highly recommended. And now I know why. If I have a question it doesn’t go unanswered. I know I’m in good hands. Thank you Stacey, Tara & Jim for handling things with so much care and for being so supportive. Choose Cooper Hurley, Today!
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02 Dec, 2024 by Sammantha pierson
Thank you so much for everything! You guys have helped me with two cases already, and Ms. Stacey Brooks is amazing! She helped me a lot and took the time to get all my information, very understanding and caring, and a movie lover too! Thank you again Ms. Brooks, Ms. Rooksby my paralegal, and Mr. Hurley my attorney.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Hayley tancak
I work with Liz Glaize and the rest of the Rutter Mills team and it was great! I didn't have to worry about a thing, them knew their jobs and did them well. Highly recommend a knowledge team as them!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Ronald reaves
Great job.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Juanita hopkins
Everything during my time here was stellar. I appreciate the professionalism and care for your clients. Thank you for firmly comforting my heart and caring for myself and family.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Hayley tancak
I work with Liz Glaize and the rest of the Rutter Mills team and it was great! I didn't have to worry about a thing, them knew their jobs and did them well. Highly recommend a knowledge team as them!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Ronald reaves
Great job.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Juanita hopkins
Everything during my time here was stellar. I appreciate the professionalism and care for your clients. Thank you for firmly comforting my heart and caring for myself and family.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Hayley tancak
I work with Liz Glaize and the rest of the Rutter Mills team and it was great! I didn't have to worry about a thing, them knew their jobs and did them well. Highly recommend a knowledge team as them!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Ronald reaves
Great job.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Juanita hopkins
Everything during my time here was stellar. I appreciate the professionalism and care for your clients. Thank you for firmly comforting my heart and caring for myself and family.
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18 May, 2022 by Pete rolaf
11 Apr, 2021 by Samantha setzer
Bruce Gould has served generations of local families. Always dedicated and really cares about his clients. He’s old school in the best possible way. A lawyer you can trust..now that’s a rare treasure..
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31 Mar, 2021 by Jerry mcinnis
He's smart knows the law and very professional.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Antiniece cribb
Mr.Land is a great lawyer, Mr. Land and his assistant Marrietta kept communication open answered all my questions and was able to get me some assistance through the process and a nice settlement
Thank you so much
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02 Dec, 2023 by Karen lw
Mr. Land has handled several accidents for me, and had been nothing but kind, caring, and always willing to listen. He is one of the finest and fairest attorneys I’ve known.
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24 Jul, 2023 by Elisa l. ocasio
Mr. Land is very professional yet approachable and very obviously experienced in his field. He and his assistant, Marrietta were extremely polite to us and transparent with each step of the process. We are very glad we chose him as our lawyer through our unfortunate case. We were in and out of the courtroom fast as well.
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09 Oct, 2024 by John rose
20 Jun, 2024 by Maka
I wouldn’t recommend this office at all I had a case an Mr Steven Wiley told me I had a case but being that it wasn’t in the millions he told me he would help but gave me the run around gave me his card to call which I did an he ignored every call even said he would call back not worth i. Thankfully I did find a lawyer to help out with my wrongful termination
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16 May, 2022 by Simon daniels
06 Nov, 2023 by Debra burrell
Top notch law firm. Very generous with the use of its meeting rooms.
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01 Jun, 2023 by Bill w
Excellent service, they are calm in stressful situations.
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05 Jan, 2023 by James wiseman
Awesome people work there and are an asset to the company.
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.0
13 Reviews
25 Dec, 2023 by Ebony wood
28 Apr, 2023 by Ivana grandison
Very friendly and knowledgeable Definitely worth every dollar spent.
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22 Nov, 2022 by Kp chosen
VERY HELPFUL AND UNDERSTANDING. DOES WHATS RIGHT AND IS VERY INFORMATIVE
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4.8
17 Reviews
3.5
301 Reviews
28 Nov, 2024 by Lane wilder
20 Nov, 2024 by Patrick gamble
George and his staff, are FANTASTIC. If I could, I would rate them higher. I was treated with respect, and patience. Sandra, is kind, and thoughtful. I felt like I was family. They always had my back. This firm is the best.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Atlanta sumuel
08 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Back in May of 2016, I was charged with a DUI and a refusal. I contacted Mr. Taliaferro because in the past I have referred people to him and he did good. Definitely not my experience. My case was continued numerous times. I paid him his money right away with no questions asked. My problem is I made 4 appointments with him so we could go over my case. Each time, he hadn't talked to the prosecutor or anyone involved and knew nothing about my case. He stated he would try his best and gave me the impression that we had a fighting chance. The day of court he suggested I take a plea. I was completely blindsided because I felt if he was following my case during the year, then I would have had a better outcome. I wrote him two letters of how disappointed I was and asked for some type of reimbursement and finally after 3 weeks he responded basically saying no. Worst experience of my life.
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19 Jan, 2014 by Mickey
I first engaged Mr. Bill Taliaferro in the early 1980's; a period in my life when likey very few would have lent the time, marked their agendas, exhibited the professionalism, the humanitarianism and the respect that Bill has always commanded and upheld when addressing any of my legal matters, (be they "minor" or...not so minor.) More than three decades later, I find myself replying to others -- local, reknown attorneys, Law Enforcement family affiliates, State Troopers, NSO retirees and a barrage of colleagues with whom I've had the happy coicidence of working, knowing and hob-knobbing alongside, that while recent, suggested legal counsel potentials are appreciated and would, no doubt, gladly accept "my business" I've but a single, emphatic phrase ; "No! I WANT Bill!" It is my plan to accept only the best that the Board has to offer--that gentleman is Mr. Bill Taliaferro. Bill Taliaferro has never once failed to review, critique, candidly blueprint and deliver workable, successful Action Plans that were exclusively tailored to my specific needs. I will, again, choose only Mr. Bill Taliaferro's expertise. There is no doubt in my mind that Mr. Bill Taliaferro will represent my sorely-overdue appeal to the Virginia Court Systems that will , alas, allow me to not only close the doors of my ancient, 25+ years ago, checkered history, (long since having come 180 degrees in my personal karma and direction) but, I am fairly certain he will supply the nails to secure those dark passages, for good. So, if you've skeletons, or even more lively "monsters in your personal closets," I can state without a moments hesitation, nor a single blink, "Bill Taliaferro remains a Prince among men and a 5-Star attorney, consistently surpassing immeasurable, enth degrees:" I would hazard to say that most Commonwealth Attorneys would much rather meet him on the golf course than in Court.
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15 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr taliaferro and his staff are extreemly knowledgeable, respectful and understanding. Mr. Talliaferro defends his clients and seeks the best options for them.
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28 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Courtney to represent me when I was unfairly dismissed as a senior executive with a large firm. My case was complicated and there was a lot in the line. I loved that Courtney not only did her homework when it came to my case specifics (of which I cannot disclose) but she was a formidable representative for my case. She understands the harsh realities many women face in the workplace. Courtney is an advocate for women and has devoted her career to represent women who have been harassed, faced gender bias, and sexually harassed. Furthermore, she's seen first hand how women have been retaliated against in the workplace and she will fight for you.
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26 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Courtney, from start to finish, was responsive, assertive, knowledgeable, and a formidable opponent to opposing council. She made clear, succinct, well-researched arguments, consistently met deadlines, and always made me feel like I was her only client. Whenever I was about to go off the rails, her strength and conviction quickly brought me back to reality. I am forever in her debt!
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04 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I meet with Courtney Williams for an initial consultations. She seemed authentic when she communicated my option and said that she would take my case and that she advocated for a contengency with the partners, because I had a strong case. She explained the next steps, gave me paper work, told me to email her with any questions. I followed through as she instructed and I never heard from her again. I called and emailed several time with no response. The receptionist Judith covers for her and say she's in meetings and she will get a message to her. I called one last time to try to assertain what happened.. and got no response. This type of action is what gives the legal industry a bad name... So my message to Courtney is treat people the way you want to be treated. I don't recommend that you waist your time with this firm. They came recommended to me from another attorney who had a conflict of interest... I went back and told my experience and the attorney was shocked. He advice me to call Peter, I thought about it and decided to go with another firm... why would I give that firm an opportunity to make money off me.. Shame on you Courtney.. you should represent women better in the work place.
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28 Nov, 2024 by Lane wilder
20 Nov, 2024 by Patrick gamble
George and his staff, are FANTASTIC. If I could, I would rate them higher. I was treated with respect, and patience. Sandra, is kind, and thoughtful. I felt like I was family. They always had my back. This firm is the best.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Atlanta sumuel
09 Oct, 2024 by John rose
20 Jun, 2024 by Maka
I wouldn’t recommend this office at all I had a case an Mr Steven Wiley told me I had a case but being that it wasn’t in the millions he told me he would help but gave me the run around gave me his card to call which I did an he ignored every call even said he would call back not worth i. Thankfully I did find a lawyer to help out with my wrongful termination
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03 Mar, 2024 by Meade skelton
27 Mar, 2023 by Jorge
Stay away from this “law firm” my injury occurred July 2017 and has not been closed yet. It seems like trivial items cannot be addressed at any level from this office. The insurance companies disbursed checks June of 2022 and they cannot figure out the accounting or even get a reduction in liability from the insurance company. They do not respond to emails or provide certificate of deposit for the escrow account to hold the funds while they deal with the medical lien. They claimed they paid out $8,000 in administrative charges and could provide invoices for close to $2000 only. They provided a listing of medical invoices that were unrelated to my claim. Also be wary I was told that they would be taking 33% of the settlement once all invoices were paid but they took it from the top after they collected a referral fee from my wives case.
They purport to be client centric but none of their actions fall in line with their 100% bias to their bottom line!
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25 Oct, 2019 by Patricia
Beth Ufkes came to our rescue when we first moved to the area. As a military family, it's hard to find someone to trust. Mrs. Ufkes handled our case with professionalism and in a timely manner. We had a positive outcome and couldn't be happier! We are happy we trusted her with our family's well being and have the utmost respect for her. She has gained our business for any future needs and we highly recommend her as both a criminal defense and personal injury lawyer. Has luck would have it, she's helped us with both! You can't go wrong with her, she's a winner!!
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18 Oct, 2017 by Sonny
Real quick: Keep in mind, I am barely ever review any product or service person b/c its a waste of time person. So for me to take the time to write this I was very irritated by how I was serviced. Especially b/c of the small amount of money involved.
Mr Graves was given 2 very easy jobs, and he knows these were cake contracts. Write up a deed of trust and take my already written parameters and create an amendment to a property settlement agreement. The 1st job was so easy it looked like it was generic sample printed off a google internet search, and it clearly did not take an hour to create but I paid the $250 b/c the PSA is what was really important and time sensitive to me. He wrote it and didn't follow what I asked. Pure and simple and not for any legal restrictive reason btw. Then I explained what I needed a 2nd time even though it was already in the parameters I provided. Then he made tiny changes it but did not address the issues that i needed addressed. After that, I wrote it and resubmitted it as if he was my college professor to see if the language was fine. He said it was fine.
Here's the kicker. Not only did I have to do the work, but before I submitted MY revision of HIS work BACK to HIM to review, I had a sizable credit balance (based on what I prepaid and what I know about the industry), that we discussed what that amount was. Then when its all done, I was was expecting maybe a credit or a zero balance. w/e its not a lot of money. Lo and behold! I get a bill stating I owe him more money. Why??? I call back multiple times and weird i can't get him on the phone. Then I email him frustrated, i believe a couple of times, and I get a NEW bill saying I owe him MORE money ON TOP of the original balance that is supposedly due to him.
Its not like Mr. Graves did me any sort of favors. This was a straight service from someone I had never known prior. Whats funny here is that the bill reflects more service work than actually occurred AND its really not a large sum of money at all, and I have had my fair share of lawyers at this point in my life and have never had issue paying for services. But this guy is really cute about it. So thats why I'm writing this review because this review IS ACTUALLY what he earned. I guess at $250 / hr you get what you pay for or even less as it appears. I can't imagine him being in super high demand, although at $250 he should be. I noticed there were no reviews on him accept for "other attorneys" and buddies in the industry. Now I know why and now he has a real review.
This is not a personal attack on Mr Graves. He was a totally nice enough professional guy and easy to talk to on the phone and in person. This is purely how I perceived the professional service I received, and it was dissatisfying.
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24 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
so I could be wrong but, what I learned about the alleged "super lawyer" designation is that it has nothing to do with many positive reviews, or win/loss record. rather it seems only pertain to certain academic criteria which any lawyer can choose to fulfill and then claim to be a super lawyer. my experience with this man was he was strong academically but was a total loss on execution. he had about 6 months once the trial date was set to prepare and never even got around to deposing the opposition. but he never missed sending an invoice. then as we were within a week of trial he informs me its too late to prepare for the trial and was almost abusive in insisting I settle at zero sum when I was the moving party and had concrete evidence of the fraud which had been perpetrated upon me. lastly, it wasn't possible for him to care any less about the case with the seeming exception of churning billable hours. 20k on a man who was unwilling to make eye contact and seemed bored but was happy to offer repeatedly to try to take it to the supreme court. baffling and massively disappointing.
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17 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Michelle Parker was the second attorney I was assigned at Decker Law Firm after I was told to "stop complaining and just do whatever the doctor wanted" from my first attorney. Unfortunately, I had already signed a contract with them to represent me in my case. The doctor in question, Dr. Walko, 'used to be a chiropractor' and decided to give me a spinal adjustment without any notice - he just grabbed my legs and threw them to one side forcefully. Immediately, I was in lots of pain - he prescribed me pain killers and sent me on my way. When I brought this up to my attorney, this is what they had told me... I was furious and asked to end the contract - they suggested I try another attorney at their firm and reminded me that I was under contract that they would not break.
In my trial, Michelle did not get any witnesses that were on the scene of the accident. I had two witnesses that saw the recklessness of the person who hit my vehicle on the highway, admittedly going 85 mph in a 55mph zone. There was a sheriff on the scene who took all my information and told me he would be "more than happy to testify and get you some justice" after he took accounts from myself, my wife, the driver who hit us and two witnesses that saw the entire thing after almost being hit by the person who was recklessly driving. My wife and I were told that we would be reimbursed for our out-of-pocket expenses. We were told that we should save every receipt of any expense related to the accident, of which there were many. Once the case was coming to trial, we were told that that statement was figurative and what they meant was - with the earnings of the trial (which was never guaranteed) that it should cover what we had spent. I live in another state across the country and had to fly back for trial which occurred more than a year after the accident. I was told a court date and was told that the travel expenses were mine to be paid and without my presence Michelle parker told me my case didn't bode well. I purchased a plane ticket, and one for my wife who was a witness, and we were told the court date had been postponed - only a few days before our flight leaving me to only get a 25% refund for two tickets from coast to coast, round trip. When I told michelle about this I was told "yeah, these things happen". I wasted so much time, money and energy trying to do what I was told and in the end - the decker law firm received more $$ from my accident than I did; and far more than my wife did. They literally added insults to my injuries - which are numerous and life long. I am forever at a loss as to why this law firm exists. Once you get past the consultation, these people change quickly. Their doctors are unprofessional and impatient. I couldn't image a worse experience dealing with attorneys. The doctor who this law firm sent me to not only gave me a 'spinal adjustment' that made me have incredible pain afterwards but also labelled me as having 'drug seeking behavior' when I told that doctor I'd no longer be seeing him. The doctor I had in mind cancelled our appointment and it was truly challenging to see a doctor for a painful condition after that label was attached to my record. I had to move back to my home state and the first doctor I saw took one look at my MRI and knew I needed surgery. My surgeon told me that there was scar tissue and torn cartilage that likely resulted from using my joint too much and too often and should have been resting more - which ran completely contrary to the doctor I had seen previously who told me that I need to strengthen and mobilize my joint more. The incompetence of not only this law firm but the 'health care professionals' that they employ is astounding. I truly wish anyone who has the option between the Decker Law firm and another chooses the other. I feel like I was used as a tool to earn more money for these attorneys (and doctors) that do not have to live with the pain I feel, every day since the accident.
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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.
