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31 Dec, 2024 by David birch
27 Dec, 2024 by Jackie waechter
Elizabeth was WONDERFUL in making a painful time in life tolerable. She was patient and thorough in making sure I was taken care of in the divorce.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Lorena zavala
This firm was amazing to work with. They were supportive, kept me informed, and handled my case with care. I’m so happy with the outcome and would definitely recommend them.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Jody r
We can't thank Josh Zarse enough for his outstanding help in obtaining our restraining order. He was incredibly quick, guiding us through every step of the process with clear explanations and a calm, reassuring approach. Anytime I had questions, he was always quick to respond, which really put our minds at ease. His professionalism and efficiency made a challenging situation so much easier. We highly recommend Josh for his exceptional service!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Colleen lafever
I found myself in a unfortunate situation a few months ago and hired Josh Zarse. I am so grateful for him! He hit the ground running and took care of my case. The communication with him was incredible. I never once had to ask twice about something or feel out of the loop. Josh will fight for you. I highly recommend him!
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23 Aug, 2024 by ලෆයෙට් ගාර්ෂියා
Fantastic! Helped my friend with the problem they had and secured a more favorable outcome than anyone it could have ever expected. Definitely worth it!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Our scrub boutique
Dustin is literally the best Attorney. He always responded within 5 min of me reaching out. He went above and beyond to make sure everything was taken care of for me.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Harley sam
Was very helpful. Helped me get a fair settlement! Would come back
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29 Oct, 2024 by Leisa monreal
Dustin, exceeded my expectation. I was completely impressed with their professionalism.
I highly recommend Biesterveld and Crook.
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03 Jan, 2024 by Mary zion
Very professional and helpful with their knowledge of information you need to know about trusts over wills.
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03 Jan, 2024 by Jo ann clement
03 Jan, 2024 by Ed dale
Paths Law Firm, without question, is the wisest choice for help with my Family's Elder Law Legal needs.
From the initial informational meeting, I knew paths Law Firm was going to be an asset in developing a "Path" that my Family could follow to meet our Trust, and Power of Attorney needs.
Russell's understanding and care about our Family's situation and his unprecedented knowledge of the correct legal requirements were only the beginning. He was so kind that he even made a house call.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Our scrub boutique
Dustin is literally the best Attorney. He always responded within 5 min of me reaching out. He went above and beyond to make sure everything was taken care of for me.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Harley sam
Was very helpful. Helped me get a fair settlement! Would come back
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29 Oct, 2024 by Leisa monreal
Dustin, exceeded my expectation. I was completely impressed with their professionalism.
I highly recommend Biesterveld and Crook.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Candilyn robinson
I would go to townsend law again 100% and recommend everyone who needs a lawyer to call Mike Townsend. He did a great job representing my case and fought for my settlement. I do have to say that although situations needing a lawyer are never good, I had the greatest experience. What made this experience so awsome was the constant support I recieved fron from Theresa and Colleen. I survived a fatality accident that left me handicap for the rest of my life. I lost my career my house, everything. So many days I wanted to give up, throw away my lawsuit, crawl into a hole and die. Theresa and Colleen never gave up on me and helped me to stay strong and stick it out. You can't imagine the stress, fear, doubt and self loathing a person goes thru until you are living it yourself. Theresa and Colleen would call just to check in with me to see how the kids and I were doing. On really bad days when I felt like I had no one and I wanted to give up I could always call Theresa and Colleen. Their caring, compassion, empathy and understanding is priceless. I could never thank them enough for all they have done to help me thru one of the most trying times in my life. I will be forever grateful that they were there for me every step of the way. Because of the Townsand law team my kids and I are finally building back and living a life worth having. Thank you .
Thank you Theresa, thankyou for reminding me how strong I am. Thankyou for keeping my head up. Thankyou for the days we sat and prayed on the
phone. Thankyou for the days you just called to make sure I was making it thru the day. Thankyou for just being you
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22 Oct, 2024 by Keith maupin
08 Oct, 2024 by Shelly kramer
Caring, professional, smart, successful team. Thank you for your hard work.
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24 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
I reached out to Ms. Kingston on two different occasions regarding situations with two different employers.
On both occasions, Ms. Kingston analyzed all of the facts involved and put together brilliant strategies and responses. Subsequently, both situations were resolved by Ms. Kingston without need for further litigation. However, if the situations had moved forward, I have no doubts that I was very well positioned for very favorable outcomes in court.
Ms. Kingston is extremely knowledgeable and knows the law backwards and forwards. Also, you will find that Ms. Kingston actually cares and will take time to explain your situation with all possible ramifications.
5 star rating plus for Ms. Kingston. If you find yourself in need of legal help regarding employment law, you owe it to yourself to contact Ms. Kingston first. Truly amazing!
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24 Sep, 2021 by Stephanie rohling
04 Feb, 2021 by Diamond ross
30 Aug, 2021 by Matthew tuck
Mike is a fantastic attorney. He really cares about his clients, especially families and children. He was totally focused on protecting my family and our assets with a revocable trust. His fees are incredibly reasonable. He gives you a quote and that's all it costs. No surprises, no extra charges. He is very knowledgeable and answered all of our questions. I cannot recommend him highly enough.
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05 Jul, 2021 by Chess coach mike
Michael Jahn turned my view of planning for my wife and son inside out. I had never taken the time to piece together what would happen if I die - right now. Eye opening, then decisive action are preserving my family from the potential destruction of my family legacy planning due to an ex (regarding my son's inheritance) and what I never realized about the evil probate nightmare! I can't thank Michael enough!
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31 Dec, 2019 by Christopher
I'm very pleased with every aspect of the client service. Peter Jouras fought to get me the maximum settlement possible. I was very pleased, and a little surprised, by the size of the settlement he secured for me. His office was constantly in contact, throughout the whole process. I always had someone calling or emailing me to keep me updated on the progress, and they were always quick to get back to me when I emailed them a question. I could not be more pleased. I know that the next time I need an attorney, I'm coming back to Jouras.
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21 Nov, 2024 by A f
He's too busy trying to sleep with the ADA and can't defend his clients.
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19 Oct, 2024 by David saxby
Grover Law has been a strong supporter of the motorcycle community and related charities and a key sponsor of the Motorcycle Ride for Dad Calgary Chapter for the past several years.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Autumn dixon
The entire staff at Grover Law Firm made the process after my accident a breeze! They paid my medical bills for me, which is something not typically done by other firms. Mark and everyone on his team were so kind and accommodating, and they are the absolute best at what they do. HIGHLY recommend their services!!!
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20 Dec, 2023 by Gail
I would like to state that if you need a lawyer Rick Morefield is the way to go. He worked with my family in the loss of my daughter. He was so compassionate and understanding and such a very hard worker.
Our case lasted over 7 years due to covid and he did not once give up on us even though he was not getting paid for all of the work that he was putting in for us. He came up with all kinds of strategies to win our case.
Rick took time to explain legal terms with us and made us aware of what he was doing and how he planned to win our case. I was very impressed on how knowledgeable he was about the law.
He was very easy to get in touch with and would call you back quickly,
I would not hesitate to use him again if needed.
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01 Nov, 2023 by Rhonda
Rick Morefield was a phenomenal attorney and i would certainly recommend his expertise again and again. It was a long journey but he seen it through with a victory overall!! What i like the most, he was dedicated and devoted to our family as his clients. He kept us updated the entire 6 years and he is the best at what he does!! Thanks Rick
Rhonda Guess
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18 Oct, 2022 by Sarah
There is so much that I can say about Rick and his team but nothing would express my gratitude level towards them. Rick is so caring and intelligent. He puts everything he has towards helping get the best outcome for his clients. He doesnt look at what is best for him at all, he purely cares for his clients. He was with me from day one in the hospital, he kept in touch with me throughout the entire case and it was not a 30 day situation. It took me 2 years due to the level of my injuries and having to end my medical care so we could see just how much I could gain back after my car accident. He was there for me when I needed to cry, when I needed to yell and everything in between. He was my voice of reason and knowing that my cases are over now I am more heartbroken just knowing that I will not have that constant contact as I have grown so fond of him. I know we will keep in touch because he is such a caring person. Watching him work during mediation, come up with scenarios and charts to help explain things so that you get the best outcome was amazing to see, he is the smartest person I have ever met. If you are looking for a firm that actually cares about you and will do whats best for your family then he is your attorney. He is 1000% better than any review could ever say.
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05 Jan, 2025 by Sam schembri
DO NOT PICK THIS FIRM. THEY HAVE A TERRIBLE REPUTATION DO YOUR RESEARCH. THEY ASK THEIR CLIENTS TO TAKE DOWN THE BAD REVIEWS. THAT'S WHY THEY HAVE 4.9 STARS ON THEIR REVIEWS. THEY ASKED ME TO TAKE IT DOWN AND I SAID "NO" THEY WILL CONTACT GOOGLE TO GET YOUR REVIEW REMOVED IF YOU DONT TAKE IT DOWN "PATHETIC"
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03 Jan, 2025 by Kimberly herndon
Horrible experience. Do not hire this firm. I was embarrassed to have this law firm represent me for a PFA order. The attorney was filling in for my attorney and he knew absolutely nothing about my case. He actually made things worse for me. I would have done a better job representing myself. I wound up rescinding the PFA on my own because I couldn't trust my legal counsel to protect me.
I thought I was paying $400/hour to be protected by an established firm. Instead, I felt like my kids and I didn't matter to them. Only my money.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Dorain williams
I’ve been with Chris going on 4 years now and my experience with him and Pier has exceeded expectations. Their knowledge on family law is exceptional and he’s someone you want in corner!
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17 Apr, 2019 by Nicholas
I was stopped for a DUI in that state of Missouri in the summer of 2018. I live in Kansas so I was not aware of the process of living in another state while in trouble in another. I was placed under arrest and went to jail. After I was released I found attorney Paul Burmaster through a ton of research on finding the best lawyer for my case. After meeting with him I knew this was the man to represent me and my case. Im glad I did. I had 2 court hearings to overcome and try and win my case. The first was the circuit court for keeping my drivers license. Long story short...We won by a judges ruling and I was able to keep my license and not go on any record or take a insurance hit. The 2nd court hearing I had to attend was for the criminal side of it with the KCMO Municipal Court. Prior to this Paul had came up with the best plan to represent and fight my case before going into the court room. I was always aware and kept in contact at all times of these hearings so I was fully aware of what was going on at all times. The day of the court hearing with the judge, prosecutor, and two police officers I knew what was going on during my trial keeping me in more of a calm state of mind knowing I had a good fighting chance to win. This helped me keep focused and my stress low at a time like this. During this trial I observed Paul being very organized and two steps ahead of everyone in the court room. With his knowledge and aggressive skill set we were able to win my case and was dismissed. I was very pleased with the outcome and would recommend this attorney to anyone. He will stand up for you and your rights to deliver the best outcome of any case that is brought to him. Thanks Again.
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15 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Paul to help me with a DUI charge that I faced in Kansas. From the beginning, I knew I was in good hands. He was thorough, persistent with communication, and able to defend me to the greatest degree when the time came to do so. We won my DUI case, and I could not be happier with the results, as well as the effort that Paul put forth in making it happen. If you ever need someone who knows the law and is willing to fight to the end to win, you should absolutely consider hiring Paul Burmaster as your attorney.
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05 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I was stopped for a DUI and Paul convinced me to go all the way through trial. After the prosecution wasn't able to get my case ready for speedy trial, he managed to get the case dismissed.
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27 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Worked with Rob on a contract case. He got the party served then fought them at every hearing we had. Rob was never unavailable. He always had a good smile and a kind heart. I cannot recommend him enough! THANK YOU!
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12 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Titus for a long distance out-of-state case. The case was extremely complicated and Mr Titus handled it with the utmost attention and respect. He secured the best possible outcome for me and my daughter even as friends thought it was not possible. We are pleased with his service and I would recommend Mr Titus to anyone dealing with family law issues.
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10 Feb, 2020 by Tobias
I am very pleased with the service that I have gotten from Mr. Titus. After all the non sense that I went through in my custody battle he is the one that finally said enough and went to war for me. If your looking for someone that actually cares about his clients and takes your concerns into account I would highly recommend Mr. Titus to do the job
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12 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Fantastic experience even though the case didn't go the way we'd hoped. Jason Covington and staff were incredibly responsive to my inquiries and were so generous with their time. I felt like they were really in my corner and incredible advocates for me.
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11 Jan, 2023 by Dolores
my husband and I contacted Jason to redo our trust because we recently moved from California to Kansas. In the process, my husband died very unexpectedly. Jason and his staff have navigated me through the process of redoing my trust and tying up all loose ends regarding my husbands untimely death.
Thank you
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17 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Jason drafted wills for my husband and me. Our estate had some twists and turns in it that took some time and creativity to work out. Jason was patient with all my questions and emails. He worked hard to make sure our intentions were reflected in our wills. At the signing, he carefully explained the provisions to us and answered all our questions. He wanted us to be fully informed as to what we were signing. I have recommended Jason to a couple who needs to establish a guardianship for one of their children. I highly recommend Jason.
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17 Jul, 2019 by Daniel
I have worked with Carl throughout the years. Carl has always been a formable opponent, and there is nothing he wouldn't do for his clients. Specifically, I recall that Carl was willing to risk his career to advocate for his client and to defend his interest. He is definitely my first option for personal injury cases in Kansas City!
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09 Aug, 2016 by Pablo
I have found Carl to be very effective in getting me the settlement from my accident that I deserved. He was very professional and yet demanding in my cause. Thanks again Carl.
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08 Aug, 2016 by Jodie
I met and got to know Carl Christensen as he accompanied his brother in law through the RCIA process at our church. He was faithful weekly, participated, was helpful, informed, and overall, an asset to the group. I enjoyed getting to know him, and hope that his new venture will be highly rewarding for him.
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10 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Connie was sympathetic, calm & understanding and very capable. She kept things on track & moving forward. She respected my wishes on the overall approach & tone for this process. She recommended a financial resource who helped with the splitting of assets. At the end, she did several tasks for me & my ex because his attorney was slow & often confused. I requested the quickest, leanest approach & she did that while still ensuring my rights were protected. I highly recommend Connie as a divorce attorney.
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17 Jul, 2014 by Denise
I hired Connie as my attorney for my divorce. I was more than pleased with her complete knowledge of the law and the procedures involved. She was helpful, reliable and in the know at all times. It was something I really appreciated at such a difficult point in my life.
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16 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Daniel provided clear and concise consultation regarding interaction with insurance companiy for death benefit and beneficiary needs. He was very patient and considerate in a very difficult time,
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15 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Daniel Boyd handled my family matter with the highest level of professionalism one could expect. He fought for me every step of the way and was able to handle my legal matter promptly and effectively.
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23 Nov, 2021 by Karla
I recently hired Brant McCoy to complete estate planning documents for my husband and I. As we are a blended family nearing our senior years, I felt it was important we get our affairs in order. Brant sent me an estate planning document asking questions about our family structure, our assets, and how we want things divided after our passing. With this information, he was able to decide what was best for our household and completed the necessary legal documents. We met in his firm where he thoroughly explained each document and gave us an opportunity to ask questions for better understanding. We were able to finalize everything that day and less than 2 weeks later, a FedEx package arrived with a binder with all the necessary legal paperwork our family will need. Thank you for making this process so easy. Appreciate your efforts and would highly recommend you for anyone needing to have estate planning done.
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18 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
Great lawyer, did a great job for me and my family.
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02 Aug, 2016 by John
Lindsay impressed me from the first meeting. That day I was in a difficult situation and nerves were raw. But her warmth and humorous demeanor helped me keep my head straight, which set the tone for the whole process over the next few months. Mine was an unusual case that required Lindsay to research real estate law. When she crossed the limits of her own expertise she was able to admit as such and reach out to colleagues for answers. She allayed my own fears by encouraging me to recognize the value of taking the "high road" and treating everybody involved with dignity. In conclusion, I appreciated Lindsay's calm,
diligent, and meticulous manner in the face of some sketchy and unpredictable twists and turns.
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04 Jun, 2013 by Olivia
I have recommended Trent Besse on several occasions. He has helped me settle 2 workmen's comp cases, as well as one for my son. I like the way he keeps me informed with the progress of the case. He knows the law and makes solid recommendations to me. I am agreeable with the settlements he gets for me. I will call him again, in a heart beat.
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19 Aug, 2020 by Mike lovell
01 Nov, 2019 by Staci blaha
Excellent and thorough service!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Bill owens
11 Dec, 2024 by Bob paulsen
Very friendly and supportive.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Shawna paulsen
12 Dec, 2024 by Bill owens
11 Dec, 2024 by Bob paulsen
Very friendly and supportive.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Shawna paulsen
25 Sep, 2019 by Beth sanford
Greg is fantastic! I didn’t expect such kindness and empathy from a divorce lawyer. He made the whole experience more palatable.
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28 Jul, 2019 by Steve simmons
Best lawyer I have ever dealt with . Honest and Fair
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06 Jul, 2019 by Rich davidson
06 Dec, 2024 by Erica berry
Mr.Wellman is absolutely wonderful ! He helped me with my bankruptcy and was very patient and supportive of me and everything I was going through . He always responded to me and communicated well . He never treated me like he was too busy like some attorneys do . One of the biggest things I’m grateful for was his ability to communicate and clarify things in a way where I could understand . I will always recommend him and use him for all future legal matters . Best attorney in KC !!!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Trevon green
After paying Mark Jeffers nearly 10k for my child custody case and having the case go almost a year with him as my attorney, he decided to withdraw as my attorney at the most crucial point in my case because it was not going perfectly. He made my image in front of the judge worse by withdrawing and left me to spend several thousand more to retain a new attorney. Both my child and myself have suffered additionally because of him and i would highly suggest that anyone that values their time, money and custody of their child never consider hiring Mark Jeffers as their counsel.
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03 Sep, 2023 by Susan gray meyer
Keith Wellman is a very professional knowledgeable and dedicated attorney in the bankruptcy field. The consultation went very quickly, and the whole process from start to finish, was explained very thoroughly and his advice was greatly appreciated! Thank you Keith for all you did for me and for helping me to get my financial life back in order.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Erica berry
Mr.Wellman is absolutely wonderful ! He helped me with my bankruptcy and was very patient and supportive of me and everything I was going through . He always responded to me and communicated well . He never treated me like he was too busy like some attorneys do . One of the biggest things I’m grateful for was his ability to communicate and clarify things in a way where I could understand . I will always recommend him and use him for all future legal matters . Best attorney in KC !!!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Trevon green
After paying Mark Jeffers nearly 10k for my child custody case and having the case go almost a year with him as my attorney, he decided to withdraw as my attorney at the most crucial point in my case because it was not going perfectly. He made my image in front of the judge worse by withdrawing and left me to spend several thousand more to retain a new attorney. Both my child and myself have suffered additionally because of him and i would highly suggest that anyone that values their time, money and custody of their child never consider hiring Mark Jeffers as their counsel.
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11 Nov, 2023 by Denise miller
I hired Brandon Laster, as my Divorce Attorney! He was outstanding on every level. He was always straight forward with me from the start! He was caring considering my circumstances as a mother and not sure of the process!. I struggled and he was always there to advise me . He would always text me back as soon as he could knowing I was upset! With Brandon being my Attorney I was able to get through the nightmare! I was able to keep my daughter in her home! Thanks, Brandon! I so appreciate everything you have done for my daughter and I. You want a lawyer who truly cares about his clients! Brandon is the lawyer for you!
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13 May, 2014 by Steve
By far, Mike went above and beyond to look out for my best interest. He answered my phone call even in the evenings. If i needed anything he would be there. I felt confident throughout my case. I would absolutely recommend Mike for repensentation anyday. What a class act! Thank you so much. Steve l
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12 May, 2014 by Cindy
Mr. Wharton took on our case when we lost our son tragically. We were not familiar with the laws or our rights. He took us under his wing and guided us through the whole ordeal. He is very professional in his job but, also can be your friend. I highly recommend Michael Wharton.
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11 May, 2014 by Anonymous
Michael has kept me notified when new items are being introduced to the lawsuit. He always answers my questions quickly and to the point. I recommend Michael.
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20 Jan, 2014 by Kevin
This was my first experence needing a lawyer and I couldn't have made a better choice. He made me feel comfortable at all times, whether it was on the phone or in person. Most of our discussions were by phone. If he wasn't available at that time, he would always call back and not leave me hanging. He work every angle and kept informed with solid information at all times. He was knowledgeable about all aspects of our suit. I never had to worry about his honesty or question his work ethic which proved to be very satisfying. I am thankful for choosing a GREAT lawyer.
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24 Feb, 2015 by Regla
I personally had a very difficult case with my son which this great lawyer resolve in the brightest manner. He truly recommend him to anyone who truly needs professional advise.
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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.
