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14 Aug, 2024 by Brett kohlhepp
Very good service and helped me understand some legal documents. Greatly ran practice and I would recommend.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Trish shaw
Jim is professional and very responsive. He helped navigate me through an unknown issue I recently had. Jim was very helpful and quickly resolved the issue. If I ever need assistance again, he will be my first phone call and we will definitely be referring Jim!! Thank you again!
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11 Apr, 2024 by Carla cichetti
21 Dec, 2024 by Nick cammilleri
David is absolutely amazing! He was very helpful, thorough and comforting throughout the entire process. He never made me feel bad for being in the situation I was in. He explained to me each step of the process as we were going through the filing and was very communicative the entire time. I HIGHLY recommend David if you are considering bankruptcy!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Ryan padden
Mr. Spitofsky was recommended to me by a colleague of his who knew his track record over the years. I put my trust in Mr. Spitofsky and he delivered with exceptional results. He handled my unusual case with respect, care and understanding for my situation. I am please to say the outcome was in our favor and I would highly recommend him to anyone who may be in need of his services.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Madison steele
David was awesome to work with and made the whole process so easy! Couldn’t recommend him enough !
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.5
44 Reviews
11 Jan, 2025 by Jamaal blackwell
Here’s an example of a 5-star review for a lawyer who successfully defended against an aggravated assault charge:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Exceptional attorney! Mike worked tirelessly on my case and got my aggravated assault charge dismissed. His attention to detail, deep knowledge of the law, and unwavering support made all the difference. I always felt like I was in good hands and that my case was a top priority. Highly recommend to anyone needing a dedicated and skilled defense lawyer!”
He doesn’t just talk a good game, he actually produces results !!! Agg Assault charges dismissed on 1/7/25
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13 Oct, 2024 by James h thompson jr
I retained Mr Walker for a case that my son was involved in recently and was initially nervous based on the fact that we did not have any experience dealing with the legal system and the process seemed long, drawn out and uncertain.
But during the entire process, Mr Walker was calm and consistent while walking us through the process. As we got closer to the end of the case, Mr Walker’s strategy became more apparent which decreased our stress level and led to my son’s charges being dismissed.
I would definitely recommend Mr Walker and The Walker Firm.
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07 Oct, 2024 by A j
Let me start off by saying this, Mr Walker is a life saver.
I'm 34 years old and have never been in any sort of legal trouble until April of this year. I spoke with several attorneys prior to speaking to Mr Walker and decided to rock with him because the consultation seemed more genuine.
My goal was not to take a plea deal of any sort, and after putting our trust in Mr Walker he was able to get my case completely dismissed & thrown out.
He was even flexible with the payments allowing me and my family the time to gather to funds. If your looking for a solid attorney and dealing with a criminal matter then The Walker Firm is your go to.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Stewart
I'd like to keep this short and simple because I am deeply embarrassed of my actions for driving under the influence. This attorney I hired saved me from loosing my drivers license. I appreciate your hard work. I learned a lifetime lesson and will never drink and drive again.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Wilma smith
My husband was caught with distributing drugs and was facing a mandatory of 24 months in jail. We have two little girls and I automatically assumed my life would turn upside down. I contacted my uncle who hired Ben Datika in the past for his sons case. Long story short Ben Datika comforted me and promised me that he will do his best on my husbands case. It is very hard for us financially and I explained this along with our other family issues to Ben and he went above and beyond trying to calm me down and work out a payment plan with me. I really appreciate everything you have done for my husband and myself. Ben came through with his promise and worked out a deal were my husband would only serve 30 days in jail with no probation. I cant thank you enough being a stay at home mom me and my daughters can not wait for there dad to be home. My entire family thanks you.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Shakeer
Best consulted lawyer I ever had! He treats every case like it’s do or die hardest working attorney I ever dealt with and he makes you feel comfortable and make sure you come out with a win everytime
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20 Aug, 2024 by Dell
Basil was fantastic. Calmed our nerves about the situation. Then he got my son's charges reduced to misdemeanors from felonies with no jaitime served. Great Counselor
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30 Dec, 2022 by Mitchell
He got me out of a jam a few times. Simple assault he got dropped. Using him for 2 dui and a possession charge. Got me out of a crazy situation today. I'd recommend him to anyone looking for an intelligent lawyer who knows how to use their words..I really appreciate everything he's done for me.
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26 Feb, 2021 by Ed
Had two consultations about my potential case. He really took time and explained my options so I could make an informed decision.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Jim morrow
Arrogant and unprofessional. Complete waste of my time contacting them. Don't make the same mistake I did. Stay far away from this firm.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Sean crossin
what a great group very happy with all phases of the process. would recommend them my ratting is AAAAAAA THANK YOU AGAIN
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22 Nov, 2024 by Faith fanelli
Mr. Rubin & his team handled my case with such professionalism and care. Having worked in the legal industry myself for over 17 years, I couldn’t have asked for a better team to work on my Social Security disability case which led to a successful outcome!
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21 Dec, 2024 by Nick cammilleri
David is absolutely amazing! He was very helpful, thorough and comforting throughout the entire process. He never made me feel bad for being in the situation I was in. He explained to me each step of the process as we were going through the filing and was very communicative the entire time. I HIGHLY recommend David if you are considering bankruptcy!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Ryan padden
Mr. Spitofsky was recommended to me by a colleague of his who knew his track record over the years. I put my trust in Mr. Spitofsky and he delivered with exceptional results. He handled my unusual case with respect, care and understanding for my situation. I am please to say the outcome was in our favor and I would highly recommend him to anyone who may be in need of his services.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Madison steele
David was awesome to work with and made the whole process so easy! Couldn’t recommend him enough !
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03 Jul, 2024 by Polard t.
11 Jun, 2024 by Gwendolyn l. james
12 Apr, 2024 by Nina persaud
05 Dec, 2024 by Ldc lecet
Staten family,
Lawyer John McMahon was extremely professional, informative & prompt while representing our family during court hearings. Considering this was our families first experience with the justice system, John's tone was comforting and reassuring prior to each court appearance.
I will definitely use his services in the future.
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01 Nov, 2024 by David kennedy
When I found myself in a challenging legal issue, I was fortunate enough to be represented by Attorney John McMahon, and his team. I was impressed by he and the groups, experience, knowledge, expertise, and professionalism. John made me feel valued as a client, was always available for communication, provided emotional support, and worked my unique case to a positive and agreeable outcome. I’d recommend he and his firm to anyone facing the criminal justice system on their own.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Joe hammond
John McMahon and his team helped me through one of the most difficult times in my life. John is knowledgeable, experienced, focused, decisive, and trustworthy. His representation gave me confidence to make potential life altering decisions via his legal and personal advice. At a time plagued with misfortune, I was fortunate to have met and been represented by John McMahon.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Victor kelly jr
Mr.Beck is very professional and knowledgeable. He was prompt and kept ne informed if the process. One of the best.
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23 Nov, 2024 by Lidia banh
I hired Abigail in January 2023 to handle my divorce. I was told that, given the circumstances, it would be a fairly simple process and anticipated it would be completed within 90 to 120 days. Unfortunately, that was not the case. I often found myself trying to contact her for weeks without receiving a direct answer about the status of my case. Abby frequently excused the delays by claiming it was because I wanted to minimize costs. While it’s true I was mindful of expenses—as a single mother of three working two jobs—I still expected the work to be completed efficiently.
Abruptly, at the end of October, Abby informed me that she was “winding down the divorce portion” of her practice and told me I needed to find new counsel. By this point, she had depleted my retainer and most of my additional payments, leaving me with no choice but to spend more money on hiring new counsel.
When my new attorney reviewed my case, they found that Abby had done nothing but file the initial complaint during the entire time she represented me. Furthermore, Abby had “highly” recommended I accept the support amount offered, even though it was lower than appropriate. She had advised me to request APL (Alimony Pendente Lite) but failed to mention that accepting the proposed support amount would reduce payments due to the assumption that the children’s father would have custody 35% of the time. This was despite me explicitly telling her that he had no interest in being involved with the children.
Abby not only severely misrepresented me but also left me in an unethical and difficult position, forcing me to scramble to find the funds to hire new counsel.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Jacqueline
Extremely disappointed. I spoke with Mr Beck and was very excited to work with him. He asked me to send over some information via email and he’d get started on my case. I followed up via email, in a week to see if he needed anything else from me. No reply. I called the office and left a message. I Wanted to be sure my email didn’t go to his spam or anything. No call back. I then Called 2wks after that call and spoke to another partner, Paul. I told him it’s been over a month and I hadn’t heard anything. I also mentioned if Mr. Beck isn’t interested in having me as a client, that’s ok but please let me know so I can find another lawyer. I’ve now wasted a month. He took my info and said he’d deliver the message. That was a week ago. Since 7/3 I haven’t heard anything back from Basil Beck. At this point I am now looking for another license lawyer. I am very disappointed with the outcome of this situation. Basil Beck had great reviews and specializes in exactly what I need for my case. It’s a shame.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Ldc lecet
Staten family,
Lawyer John McMahon was extremely professional, informative & prompt while representing our family during court hearings. Considering this was our families first experience with the justice system, John's tone was comforting and reassuring prior to each court appearance.
I will definitely use his services in the future.
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01 Nov, 2024 by David kennedy
When I found myself in a challenging legal issue, I was fortunate enough to be represented by Attorney John McMahon, and his team. I was impressed by he and the groups, experience, knowledge, expertise, and professionalism. John made me feel valued as a client, was always available for communication, provided emotional support, and worked my unique case to a positive and agreeable outcome. I’d recommend he and his firm to anyone facing the criminal justice system on their own.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Joe hammond
John McMahon and his team helped me through one of the most difficult times in my life. John is knowledgeable, experienced, focused, decisive, and trustworthy. His representation gave me confidence to make potential life altering decisions via his legal and personal advice. At a time plagued with misfortune, I was fortunate to have met and been represented by John McMahon.
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10 Aug, 2022 by Mikah
Got Jason as a lawyer after my father had a bad fall. He worked diligently to get my father the compensation that he needed. Fully recommend!
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15 Apr, 2021 by Russell
Did an excellent job with my case and he’s a good guy! Gave me all the information to help me make an informed decision!
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08 Apr, 2021 by Delmar
beat my casa without even going in court room... he is a beast... and he is a real and upfront guy... i recommend him for any case...
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19 May, 2017 by Joe
Having a complex set of circumstances Dave was compassionate and honest giving the much needed understanding and sincerity I needed. He was always there when I reached out to him and had my best interests at heart. I have great respect and gratitude for all he has done.
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27 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I was facing simple assault and harassment charges from an altercation where I was only defending myself. The current lawyer I had for my case was not doing a sufficient job in guiding me in the right direction and was telling me to take the plea bargain. I refused, as I knew I did not commit the crime. After searching for a new lawyer, I found Dave. Dave believed in my case and worked tirelessly to gather evidence to prove my innocence. He met with my witness and I numerous times and every time he calmed our nerves every time because he reassured us he could properly defend and prove this act of self defense. Dave is very professional, helpful and intelligent. In the end, Dave's knowledge and hard work proved my innocence! I would recommend Dave to anyone in any criminal situation, he is a very dedicated professional who knows what he is doing!
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25 Sep, 2015 by Stanley
JDF is a very Competent & knowledgeable attorney who represented me during a very difficult time in my life, he came threw for me and I am humbly grateful to him.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Nick cammilleri
David is absolutely amazing! He was very helpful, thorough and comforting throughout the entire process. He never made me feel bad for being in the situation I was in. He explained to me each step of the process as we were going through the filing and was very communicative the entire time. I HIGHLY recommend David if you are considering bankruptcy!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Ryan padden
Mr. Spitofsky was recommended to me by a colleague of his who knew his track record over the years. I put my trust in Mr. Spitofsky and he delivered with exceptional results. He handled my unusual case with respect, care and understanding for my situation. I am please to say the outcome was in our favor and I would highly recommend him to anyone who may be in need of his services.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Madison steele
David was awesome to work with and made the whole process so easy! Couldn’t recommend him enough !
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05 Mar, 2017 by Joe
Frank gave me free advice on a potential case I had with a hospital. He was honest and respectful. On top of that he pinpointed the exact conditions that needed to occur for me to have a case.
He saved me a lot of time that I would have spent pursuing a lost cause.
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14 Mar, 2015 by Rich
Frank took our case when another "lawyer" said we had no case!!
With that, Frank was able to get us over 450K!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Also, the insurance carrier denied our first party benefits and Frank would not let that stand.
He took the time and made every effort to make sure we were made whole.
If you ever need a lawyer who will treat you as a person and not just a "fee" Frank is that Lawyer.
Before you make that most important decision on who will represent you in your law suit, please take the time to talk to Frank.
It will be the best decision you could ever make.
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25 Oct, 2013 by Ed
Mr. Murphy was an incredible lawyer. He always told me the different approaches that they would try against my case. We talked openly and trustfully. He fought a very long time for this case and left nothing undone.
He is an incredible man that I am so happy I finally found after a long search.
I really can't seem to find the words to voice my appreciation for him and his firm.
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08 Apr, 2016 by Kris
Charles represented me in a few matters and was always responsive and has reasonable rates. He successfully fought a case against an improper judgement against my name. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a genuine lawyer who will fight for you.
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13 Aug, 2015 by Rick
Charlie has been helping my family for over 20 years my father my brothers myself with all positive outcomes whenever asked if I know a good lawyer I always recommend Charles. Thanks Charlie see you soon
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01 Apr, 2013 by Doug
I took a case to Chuck that had been bounced around other lawyers for 6 years within 2 months I had a check!
I took another case I was doing myself, and ready to give up on to Chuck and withing weeks I had a check!
I took another case to him that I thought would get me a certain amount, and within a year he got me 7 times as much! (and was honest enough to lower his fee)
His office may be a mess with stacks of papers, and he takes breaks to smoke (but so do I) but I was once told if you want something done go to the person with the messiest desk (In Chucks case I find this to be true)
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01 Feb, 2021 by Melissa
I hired him when I got hurt at my job he is always on point with everything. He is a great lawyer to have on your side...
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05 Jan, 2021 by Belinda
Jon Picker took my workers comp case, and took on a huge insurance company. He was my David to their Goliath, and he Won! He made sure I was heard, and treated with the respect and the dignity, I deserved. It was a real pleasure to have Mr. Picker on my side, as my attorney to represent me.
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05 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
She wrote and updated our wills. I have consulted with her on numerous family issues concerning probate, family law, etc.. She shows an interest in her field and I can tell she likes doing what she does. I trust her.
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16 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Cynthia was recommended to me after I lost my mom. I couldn't have asked for a more helpful lawyer during a difficult time.
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06 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Saraceni handled my wife's automobile accident injury with professional advice and compassion. Her car was hit by a driver with no insurance and according to no-fault insurance, we had to sue our own insurance company for medical and other damages. We would highly recommend him to others in similar situations.
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20 Jul, 2017 by Paul camiolo
Very smart. Wonderful writer. Has many years experience which was put to use in my case. Has tirelessly worked for a good resolution for me
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09 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Joe has helped through a tough divorce situation. My ex and her lawyer were very litigious and confrontational even though she had been caught and exposed in having multiple extra marital affairs and then filed for divorce. Joe was very steady, professional, and authoritative in a number of trying situations. He was always meticulously well prepared and avoided unnecessary drama despite provocation. His reputation locally among his peers and in the Court is very strong indeed. Above all he's empathetic to an often stressful situation. I'd fully recommend him.
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19 Mar, 2013 by Joy
Jim was fantastic... he kept me informed ... offered me choices... and explained every step of the process... He made himself available and returned my calls promptly... He has a great understanding of the Worker's Comp process... He made sure to put my needs first and made sure I received the care I deserve........ I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a honest lawyer who serves the needs of his clients......
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11 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Flood to be my attorney for a personal injury case. He is professional and knowledgeable, but personable and ready to answer questions in detail. He took his time to explain issues related to the case and give legal advice. I feel very comfortable working with him. During the course of the lawsuit, I was updated frequently about the progress. I am very satisfied with the outcome. My gratitude goes to Mr. Flood and his associates.
I highly recommend Mr. Flood's legal services.
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19 Jan, 2019 by Anne
I thought Mr Flood understood me and helped me tremendously. He was there anytime I had a question or situation arise,
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04 Mar, 2017 by Warren
I can't say enough good things about my dealings with Jim, he did all i needed done in a very short time. I had a bad situation due to a different lawyer, and Jim and his group did everything necessary to resolve this for me. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone i know who needs legal help.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie liebert
These are probably the most intelligent, insightful and compassionate lawyers there are. They have helped me save my life. I owe them more than they charged (in my mind) but are worth every penny. If you have ANY issues don’t go to any other lawyer. See them ASAP. Without going into detail; all charges dropped. My issue could have ruined my life. Lovely men, good people, exactly what you want if you need representation. They WILL help you without breaking the bank. Best in Town
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06 Dec, 2024 by Niche tucker
Jamie Wiggins is one of the best, compassionate, yet stern & understanding people I’ve came across in my life!! Not only is she down to earth but, Mrs Wiggins fights along side you for any cause you believe in!! Top Notch lawyer in Pennsylvania!! Thank You SBC&T for having such a prestigious person accessible for the people!!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Bryan oshell
Jamie Wiggins was fantistic. Very tentative to my situation and a pit bull in the court room. Ms.Wiggins was able to place a government agency not to be named back in the place after denying my family there rights. This Firm has been with me for 19 years and will remain so.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Nick cammilleri
David is absolutely amazing! He was very helpful, thorough and comforting throughout the entire process. He never made me feel bad for being in the situation I was in. He explained to me each step of the process as we were going through the filing and was very communicative the entire time. I HIGHLY recommend David if you are considering bankruptcy!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Ryan padden
Mr. Spitofsky was recommended to me by a colleague of his who knew his track record over the years. I put my trust in Mr. Spitofsky and he delivered with exceptional results. He handled my unusual case with respect, care and understanding for my situation. I am please to say the outcome was in our favor and I would highly recommend him to anyone who may be in need of his services.
Read more
17 Dec, 2024 by Madison steele
David was awesome to work with and made the whole process so easy! Couldn’t recommend him enough !
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21 Dec, 2024 by Nick cammilleri
David is absolutely amazing! He was very helpful, thorough and comforting throughout the entire process. He never made me feel bad for being in the situation I was in. He explained to me each step of the process as we were going through the filing and was very communicative the entire time. I HIGHLY recommend David if you are considering bankruptcy!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Ryan padden
Mr. Spitofsky was recommended to me by a colleague of his who knew his track record over the years. I put my trust in Mr. Spitofsky and he delivered with exceptional results. He handled my unusual case with respect, care and understanding for my situation. I am please to say the outcome was in our favor and I would highly recommend him to anyone who may be in need of his services.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Madison steele
David was awesome to work with and made the whole process so easy! Couldn’t recommend him enough !
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18 Dec, 2024 by Stephanie liebert
These are probably the most intelligent, insightful and compassionate lawyers there are. They have helped me save my life. I owe them more than they charged (in my mind) but are worth every penny. If you have ANY issues don’t go to any other lawyer. See them ASAP. Without going into detail; all charges dropped. My issue could have ruined my life. Lovely men, good people, exactly what you want if you need representation. They WILL help you without breaking the bank. Best in Town
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06 Dec, 2024 by Niche tucker
Jamie Wiggins is one of the best, compassionate, yet stern & understanding people I’ve came across in my life!! Not only is she down to earth but, Mrs Wiggins fights along side you for any cause you believe in!! Top Notch lawyer in Pennsylvania!! Thank You SBC&T for having such a prestigious person accessible for the people!!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Bryan oshell
Jamie Wiggins was fantistic. Very tentative to my situation and a pit bull in the court room. Ms.Wiggins was able to place a government agency not to be named back in the place after denying my family there rights. This Firm has been with me for 19 years and will remain so.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Drock 267
If you're looking for attorney that has over 20 yrs experience this your man!
And it's all not about the case, this gentleman gave me his ear when my mother passed away.
And to put it simply he we go for the max!
Derrick Whitehead
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27 Jul, 2023 by Prosoko
08 Dec, 2020 by Anjoray smith
Great representation.
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04 Sep, 2023 by Drock 267
If you're looking for attorney that has over 20 yrs experience this your man!
And it's all not about the case, this gentleman gave me his ear when my mother passed away.
And to put it simply he we go for the max!
Derrick Whitehead
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27 Jul, 2023 by Prosoko
10 Aug, 2022 by Brenda
I was referred to Mr. Berschler by another attorney who stated that he was the best. Not. I ended up firing him.
#1. I asked him to file my divorce as “with cause”, because I had proof that it was appropriate. He did not, and then when I inquired into the progress, he said it was too late to file “with cause” and that I should just sign the “no fault” papers presented by my husband’s attorney. ( it actually turned out that it was not too late and he could have counter filed.)
# 2. He did not file for custody in the beginning and told me there was no point in filing for support early on as my husband “was paying the bills”. This advice caused huge problems down the road.
#3. When he called to update me he was usually in his car driving home. Hard to believe he was committed to doing a good job for me when his phone contacts seemed like afterthoughts.
#4. His treatment of my case was simply pro forma with no apparent consideration given to my situation financially, or my life as a single parent with 2 small children.
#5. The last straw was his inability to understand the complexities of several parts of my husband’s job which impacted the settlement negatively. I fired him.
The divorce began 1999 and took several years and cost many, many thousands of dollars, most of which was paid to Mr. Berschler. To this day my life is impacted by his actions.
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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.
