Lawyers map
>209
experienced lawyers
Filter by
23 Mar, 2022 by Kyle hamilton
Made sure to get what my fiancee is owed. Awesome firm.
Read more
18 Jun, 2021 by John mcdowell
Seen another attorney and felt very confused and dissatisfied. I found this office through a friend that mentioned them. They picked up my case and it was handled like it was important to them. It felt like only a month after speaking to them they reached a settlement when the last attorney I barely heard from within a year. The staff is amazing and takes the time out to listen to your concerns and questions. Every time I spoke to anyone from this office they have made me feel very confident with the work they do!
Read more
02 Jun, 2021 by Bianca jones
Mr.Shimek is the best lawyer to go to in Pensacola. He really does a great job. And he cares about all his clients.
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Tiffany f
Brett and Debbie provided outstanding support and kept me informed at every step of the process for SSA disability. They are extremely kind and very caring about their clients. I highly recommend them for any legal help!!
Read more
18 Aug, 2024 by C m
Mr. Brett Vigodsky and Mrs.Debra Bourne did an amazing job helping me through my workman's comp case. Without them I would've never been taken care of as they were able to on my own. From Dr appointments, medications, taking over communications with workers comp, and more they saved me alot of the hassle and kept me as stress free through the process as possible. Not only did they handle my case but my grandfather's aswell and did an exceptional job with the both of us. With out their help I would've been truly screwed. I highly recommend them for any workers comp case!
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by George blackburn
A special thank you to Rachael Gilmer and the entire team at the Levin Papantonio Law Firm for your excellent representation! While this process was new to us, you guided us through step by step, exceeding our expectations. Would definitely recommend Ms. Rachael and the Levin Papantonio Law Firm. Again, thank you, George Blackburn
Read more
01 Feb, 2023 by Christi brake
Wanda Radcliffe is an amazing Injury attorney
Read more
26 Jan, 2022 by Anthony guthrie
09 Nov, 2021 by Keenan harrigill
06 Aug, 2024 by Misti davison
My husband and I needed some legal help, counseling, advice, and direction. We were hoping to sit down with someone who would listen to the situation that we have found ourselves in and then provide for the above-mentioned needs. Unfortunately, that did not happen. Several times in conversation, he made comments regarding our intelligence, or lack thereof, cut us off while we were speaking, had zero interest in listening to our concerns about said situation, and was subsequently of no help. He spoke horribly about his secretary and was rude to her. He made an easy two hundred and fifty dollars off of us, and we left frustrated and with no guidance at all. If you are also in need of the same kind of help as we were, look somewhere else or seek counseling with his daughter, Angela Guttman, and don't waste your time or money.
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Vincent white
Angela and her team are the go to lawyers in Pensacola. They pay attention to every detail. I was impressed with her memory. She doesn't miss anything. If you want a go getter give them a call asap. Thank you Angela.
Read more
07 Jun, 2024 by Sheridan d
Angela represented my ex. She was great. A true shark.
Great job!! I applaud you for taking so much.
Read more
01 Feb, 2023 by Christi brake
Wanda Radcliffe is an amazing Injury attorney
Read more
26 Jan, 2022 by Anthony guthrie
09 Nov, 2021 by Keenan harrigill
24 Feb, 2018 by Virginia
I had a car accident at work which involves workers comp and personal injury. Their firm was able to handle both cases for me and I was very pleased with the knowledge Mr Stone had about the whole process
Read more
02 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
I had a slip and fall with a broken bone that required extensive and very painful surgery. I completed a form online a few months before the statute of limitations for the fall was reached. I got responses from several attorneys but chose Scott Stone. He was very enthused in the beginning. It was clearly a case of negligence. I don't know whether a deadline was missed or what happened. He didn't offer an explanation just told me I wouldn't be receiving as big a settlement as originally anticipated. Then he and his para legal stopped taking my calls. I finally spoke to him and he said I would probably only receive around $5000. I asked when and he said he didn't know when exactly. That was four years ago and I haven't heard a word from him not to mention not a penny.
Read more
13 Jul, 2012 by Mike
I have used Scott and his firm a couple of times. He was very prompt and professional. He was always available to take my calls when I had questions about my case. I would highly recommend Scott and his firm to anyone looking for a honest and professional lawyer.
Read more
01 Feb, 2023 by Christi brake
Wanda Radcliffe is an amazing Injury attorney
Read more
19 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
This guy is awful. He is the reason lawyers get a bad reputation. Takes your money and lies about what he will do to represent your. Had to fire him and file complaint with the Bar
Read more
26 Jan, 2022 by Anthony guthrie
07 Oct, 2024 by Marcos flores
Muy interesante
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Jonathan finlayson
Mr. Talbott and team were fantastic. Dealing with worker’s compensation is a absolute nightmare and I wouldn’t have been able to get through it without them.
Read more
01 Aug, 2024 by Danika manuel
Greatly appreciate Mr. Talbott and his team. It was a smooth process for me not too strenuous at all. Would recommend him and his team to anyone looking to receive a settlement without a real headache
Read more
17 Oct, 2017 by Janah
I hired Mr. Fenimore to represent me after I was involved in a car accident. Mr. Fenimore thoroughly explained the process in a way I could completely understand. He worked diligently on my claim, guided me through the process, kept me updated on my case, and made me feel at ease. I highly recommend Michael Fenimore!!
Read more
11 Oct, 2017 by Jacky
Mr. Fenimore represented me for a slip and fall accident. I had never been involved in any type of accident and had no idea where to begin or how to handle my claim. Mr. Fenimore kept me informed and got me a result that far exceeded my expectations. Mr. Fenimore is a very personable attorney and he genuinely cares about his clients. I can't begin to thank him enough for his time and attention to my case. I wholeheartedly recommend him and his team!
Read more
06 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I have sought legal advice from Mr. Fenimore on a variety of legal issues for several years. He has always provided personal attention and handled my legal matters in a timely manner with outstanding results. I can attest to his high level of legal and professional competence. I give him my highest recommendation.
Read more
07 Oct, 2024 by Marcos flores
Muy interesante
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Jonathan finlayson
Mr. Talbott and team were fantastic. Dealing with worker’s compensation is a absolute nightmare and I wouldn’t have been able to get through it without them.
Read more
01 Aug, 2024 by Danika manuel
Greatly appreciate Mr. Talbott and his team. It was a smooth process for me not too strenuous at all. Would recommend him and his team to anyone looking to receive a settlement without a real headache
Read more
07 Oct, 2024 by Marcos flores
Muy interesante
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Jonathan finlayson
Mr. Talbott and team were fantastic. Dealing with worker’s compensation is a absolute nightmare and I wouldn’t have been able to get through it without them.
Read more
01 Aug, 2024 by Danika manuel
Greatly appreciate Mr. Talbott and his team. It was a smooth process for me not too strenuous at all. Would recommend him and his team to anyone looking to receive a settlement without a real headache
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by 2hayez
25 Jan, 2024 by Lynn harrell
Ideal law firm that suits our needs.
Read more
29 Sep, 2023 by Tatyana stallworth
Tatyana Stallworth
a minute ago
I just want to shout out Mr. Tom and his team, the diligence, the caring and genuine spirit they have. Mr. Tom words to me "I'm going to help you" and he did much more please understand this law firm is ethical and legit thankyou guys so much for blessing me and my family.
Read more
29 Jul, 2024 by Stephen bak
I had Justin Holman represent me and he was excellent. Office staff was always helpful and Justin made sure to answer all my questions quickly.
Read more
11 Jun, 2024 by Margaret canarsky
Multiple meeting discussing the EXACT same thing each time. Dragged things out. Poor communication. Lots of money spent for what felt like zero effort.
Read more
04 May, 2024 by Andrew miller
11 Apr, 2024 by Constance r
Mr. Welch is my hero. He was very dedicated to my case. He went above and beyond for me and my family. He was informative throughout the process. And he was very honest and transparent about the potential outcome.
Read more
15 Feb, 2024 by Skin nurse sarah
07 Jun, 2022 by Liv h
29 Jul, 2024 by Stephen bak
I had Justin Holman represent me and he was excellent. Office staff was always helpful and Justin made sure to answer all my questions quickly.
Read more
11 Jun, 2024 by Margaret canarsky
Multiple meeting discussing the EXACT same thing each time. Dragged things out. Poor communication. Lots of money spent for what felt like zero effort.
Read more
04 May, 2024 by Andrew miller
20 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Klotz to represent me against those who brought fraudulent charges against me in 2021. He charged me over $20,000 for his representation. When evidence in the matter, provided indisputable facts that the people who brought the charges against me had obstructed Justice by lying to law enforcement, had perjured themselves in their sworn affidavits and had engaged in other criminal activity the matter against me was dropped. Although Mr. KLOTZ told me early on in the case that he would represent me against these people in a defamation lawsuit, he latter refused to do so. Further, when a court order was issued and then later violated by local law enforcement directing them to expunge all associated records, he did nothing to hold them accountable. As such, I would not recommend Mr. Klotz, and would certainly caution anyone who might consider his legal representation. He can’t be trusted.
Read more
04 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I'm 43... no criminal record. I received a notice for a warrant for something I didn't do. I had picked up a stray dog and the owner thought I had it and was keeping it from her. Mr Klotz was referred to me. After seeing him, he immediately worked on my case. He had someone go to the other persons home to sign a statement that it was a misunderstanding. He made calls to people he knows and gave the statement to the appropriate people immediately. Mike, his paralegal was on top of everything for him. He took my call every single time and kept me updated. The warrant was dropped (Thank God). I work in the financial industry so this would have ruined my life and future. I have no doubt that without Mike and Mr Klotz, the warrant would have led to my arrest for grand theft. Even w charges dropped or found not guilty, I would have had an arrest record that would have followed me the rest of my life. I'm so thankful to them and will never be able to truly repay them. If you need help w a criminal defense or an injury, call them. They care... they are knowledgeable.... they make miracles happen!
Read more
01 Jun, 2015 by Keith
Mr. Klotz is very committed to his clients. He kept us informed throughout the process and advised us of all the options along the way. He also provided his recommendations based on his many years of experience. His knowledge, credibility and good reputation with other members of his profession allowed him to obtain a favorable result in our case. I strongly recommend him.
Read more
16 May, 2024 by Greg miller
Excellent for Santa Rosa County Court!
Read more
16 Mar, 2024 by Edward rose
Only in it to take advantage of people regardless thier innocents. Told me the Judicial system just cares about processes and not justice. I am a Veteran on VA and Social Security Disability. He took all the money I had. I gave it to him up front and all he did was drag out the case for 8 months then sold me out for a plea deal because he thought I was not serious when I told him I only had the money I paid him in full up front. I had to get that $5500 from a Charity for Veterans that belived in my innocents. I still have to pay court costs which put money into funding victims of things I was not even charged with or convicted of being guilty. He can't defend your Constitutional rights. He can't defend your Declaration of Independence rights because the USA Government never made it a Lawful document. USA Independence, and individual sovereignty is a pipe dream lie which he profits from.
Read more
13 Jul, 2023 by Paige hunter
Very unprofessional and misleading!! Front desk hung up on me and wouldn’t answer the office phone. While on the phone continued to argue with me when all I asked was for a call back from Mr. Sellers who I’ve contacted for 2 weeks with no answer in office or by cell.
Mr. Sellers told his client he would be getting out of jail when they go to court June 29th and then tells him in court sorry I messed up. Saddest part is we both told the kids he was getting out and he didn’t. Mr. Sellers client contacted me from jail and asked me to call Mr. Sellers to see what’s was going on. Waiting for my call back from Mr.Sellers.
Read more
28 Dec, 2023 by Ashley
My sister hired this firm to represent her to help her get a Final Judgment Set Aside among other issues in her case with the help our family that was well communicated with Greg. He proclaimed that he would help with all of her matters. I even spoke with him and his support staff too about my sister’s case but now refuse to speak with me to inquire as to why they have now filed a Motion to Withdraw from her matter and he has left numerous issues unresolved as I find it disgusting and disturbing of their lack of professionalism. Again, this firm was suppose to help her on numerous of matters. He waited nearly 3 months to file the “Motion” that he now claims he was “only” hired to do on her matter with the court after getting paid in advance. He received a letter from opposing counsel proclaiming they took too much money from my sister’s 401k account and has sat on it too admitting it has gone unanswered. This issue too was another reason why he was hired. The office never answers the phone and they use their caseload as an excuse as to their poor performance. “Often citing that my sister is not their only client”. How would that statement make you feel if you were a client of theirs? A deadline was missed in her case by 4 days and the excuse of a security breach was used that nearly happened weeks prior to the Judge asking for a Briefing Order to be submitted, which was not disclosed in their Motion for Extension of Time after they missed the Judge’s deadline. One would think that if a security breach caused your firm to miss a deadline, it would have been well noted in their Motion for Extension of Time to the Judge. Luckily, the Judge granted his extension; however, the brief submitted wasn’t in support to set a Final Judgment aside as the case cited was in opposition to their claim to set aside. It seems excuses is all this firm has and unwilling to refund my sister’s money for their lack of being prepared. They claim they’ve used up all of her funds too. No invoice was ever given upon employment. They also failed to submit a document that the Judge asked to accompany the briefing order, part (b) an Amended Final Judgment to include computations that was not included with their brief. They repeatedly asked for documents that was supplied numerous of times to them! I’d strongly encourage you to get my sister’s Motion to Set Aside Final Judgment, their Brief to that Motion and opposing counsel’s response to their Brief from the Court in Escambia County (Brock Kennedy v. Amy Kennedy) as it should be a guiding light for anyone in need of an Attorney. This attorney will talk a big game to get hired it seems to me. He should have been very transparent about his “big” caseload as this excuse was given multiple of times to my sister and to me by Jennifer and Greg. Jennifer asked that I help with the writing of the Motion to Set Aside as their paralegal was out of the office due to an illness and they were short staffed, then blatantly lied about it. I have legal experience, so I drafted and submitted a Motion to them to help them with “their big caseload”. I actually cited a great case in my Motion to Set Aside that wasn’t even used in their brief. This firm cited a case that wasn’t in even in support to set aside and opposing counsel noted that in his response
and the Judge sided with opposing counsel. I’d actually have to agree with the Judge’s ruling for their failure to submit cases that supported their position to set aside. All public record. It is an attorney’s job to keep clients apprised of their case status, which is their fiduciary duty. An attorney shouldn’t half attempt to handle legal matters and wait months to get a result! Do your research and carefully read reviews of other clients as my comments and opinions are of the same of others. Unfortunately, the legal profession in Florida is saturated with Attorneys that talk a big game prior to being hired and do less than mediocre work once hired.
Read more
05 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Terrible at responding to questions or concerns. Will only seem to fight for mothers in court. Dad's, beware.
Read more
29 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Concerned. I am currently going through a divorce with Mr Farrar as my attorney. Communication is bad. Weeks often go by without answers to my questions. He and his team often lack essential knowledge regarding my case. Hopefully things will turn around. I will update this review once the case is over.
Read more
11 Apr, 2024 by Constance r
Mr. Welch is my hero. He was very dedicated to my case. He went above and beyond for me and my family. He was informative throughout the process. And he was very honest and transparent about the potential outcome.
Read more
15 Feb, 2024 by Skin nurse sarah
07 Jun, 2022 by Liv h
09 Sep, 2024 by Consuela odueke
06 Sep, 2024 by Fonte stone
This law firm is horrible. They handle my settlement payment very poorly. They charged Veterans 40% for there services plus another 9% went to somewhere else. So, basically they took 50% of Veterans settlement proceeds. I am sure the are aware that most Veterans live on a fixed budget and won't complain because we need the funds. They received the funds sometime in July. When I contacted them about my specfic case they stated that my distribution letter was in the writing process. I waited until August 1 to contact them again and they stated they sent the letter out on the 31st of July. I informed them I did not receive it. They then to me they would send one out within the next three days. I did not receive a distribution letter until the 15th of August. I questioned them about when payment would be made they stated 14 days if you oped for direct deposit. It has been 15 business days and I contacted them about where my funds were and now they are stating the lost a batch of distribution letters and it will take an additional 15 days. This behavior is unacceptable. You can't even report there behavior. So hopefully someone reads this prior to choosing this law firm.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by John michael ramirez
I wanted to leave a shout-out to Beth, who was very helpful in answering all my questions and concerns. Thanks Beth and thank you Awko law
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Daniel providence
Any time you hired an Attorney and he
Deliver in a timely manner just as he said in the consultation his name
Must be Bryan J. Hamlin.
Read more
22 Jun, 2022 by Vonda vornholt
He's the best! I had little hope on my outcome and he knew what to do because to my surprise everything was over and done with one court appearance! Love this man for all his help
Read more
07 Sep, 2021 by Denise copeland
09 Sep, 2024 by Consuela odueke
06 Sep, 2024 by Fonte stone
This law firm is horrible. They handle my settlement payment very poorly. They charged Veterans 40% for there services plus another 9% went to somewhere else. So, basically they took 50% of Veterans settlement proceeds. I am sure the are aware that most Veterans live on a fixed budget and won't complain because we need the funds. They received the funds sometime in July. When I contacted them about my specfic case they stated that my distribution letter was in the writing process. I waited until August 1 to contact them again and they stated they sent the letter out on the 31st of July. I informed them I did not receive it. They then to me they would send one out within the next three days. I did not receive a distribution letter until the 15th of August. I questioned them about when payment would be made they stated 14 days if you oped for direct deposit. It has been 15 business days and I contacted them about where my funds were and now they are stating the lost a batch of distribution letters and it will take an additional 15 days. This behavior is unacceptable. You can't even report there behavior. So hopefully someone reads this prior to choosing this law firm.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by John michael ramirez
I wanted to leave a shout-out to Beth, who was very helpful in answering all my questions and concerns. Thanks Beth and thank you Awko law
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Consuela odueke
06 Sep, 2024 by Fonte stone
This law firm is horrible. They handle my settlement payment very poorly. They charged Veterans 40% for there services plus another 9% went to somewhere else. So, basically they took 50% of Veterans settlement proceeds. I am sure the are aware that most Veterans live on a fixed budget and won't complain because we need the funds. They received the funds sometime in July. When I contacted them about my specfic case they stated that my distribution letter was in the writing process. I waited until August 1 to contact them again and they stated they sent the letter out on the 31st of July. I informed them I did not receive it. They then to me they would send one out within the next three days. I did not receive a distribution letter until the 15th of August. I questioned them about when payment would be made they stated 14 days if you oped for direct deposit. It has been 15 business days and I contacted them about where my funds were and now they are stating the lost a batch of distribution letters and it will take an additional 15 days. This behavior is unacceptable. You can't even report there behavior. So hopefully someone reads this prior to choosing this law firm.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by John michael ramirez
I wanted to leave a shout-out to Beth, who was very helpful in answering all my questions and concerns. Thanks Beth and thank you Awko law
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Consuela odueke
06 Sep, 2024 by Fonte stone
This law firm is horrible. They handle my settlement payment very poorly. They charged Veterans 40% for there services plus another 9% went to somewhere else. So, basically they took 50% of Veterans settlement proceeds. I am sure the are aware that most Veterans live on a fixed budget and won't complain because we need the funds. They received the funds sometime in July. When I contacted them about my specfic case they stated that my distribution letter was in the writing process. I waited until August 1 to contact them again and they stated they sent the letter out on the 31st of July. I informed them I did not receive it. They then to me they would send one out within the next three days. I did not receive a distribution letter until the 15th of August. I questioned them about when payment would be made they stated 14 days if you oped for direct deposit. It has been 15 business days and I contacted them about where my funds were and now they are stating the lost a batch of distribution letters and it will take an additional 15 days. This behavior is unacceptable. You can't even report there behavior. So hopefully someone reads this prior to choosing this law firm.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by John michael ramirez
I wanted to leave a shout-out to Beth, who was very helpful in answering all my questions and concerns. Thanks Beth and thank you Awko law
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Consuela odueke
06 Sep, 2024 by Fonte stone
This law firm is horrible. They handle my settlement payment very poorly. They charged Veterans 40% for there services plus another 9% went to somewhere else. So, basically they took 50% of Veterans settlement proceeds. I am sure the are aware that most Veterans live on a fixed budget and won't complain because we need the funds. They received the funds sometime in July. When I contacted them about my specfic case they stated that my distribution letter was in the writing process. I waited until August 1 to contact them again and they stated they sent the letter out on the 31st of July. I informed them I did not receive it. They then to me they would send one out within the next three days. I did not receive a distribution letter until the 15th of August. I questioned them about when payment would be made they stated 14 days if you oped for direct deposit. It has been 15 business days and I contacted them about where my funds were and now they are stating the lost a batch of distribution letters and it will take an additional 15 days. This behavior is unacceptable. You can't even report there behavior. So hopefully someone reads this prior to choosing this law firm.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by John michael ramirez
I wanted to leave a shout-out to Beth, who was very helpful in answering all my questions and concerns. Thanks Beth and thank you Awko law
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Consuela odueke
06 Sep, 2024 by Fonte stone
This law firm is horrible. They handle my settlement payment very poorly. They charged Veterans 40% for there services plus another 9% went to somewhere else. So, basically they took 50% of Veterans settlement proceeds. I am sure the are aware that most Veterans live on a fixed budget and won't complain because we need the funds. They received the funds sometime in July. When I contacted them about my specfic case they stated that my distribution letter was in the writing process. I waited until August 1 to contact them again and they stated they sent the letter out on the 31st of July. I informed them I did not receive it. They then to me they would send one out within the next three days. I did not receive a distribution letter until the 15th of August. I questioned them about when payment would be made they stated 14 days if you oped for direct deposit. It has been 15 business days and I contacted them about where my funds were and now they are stating the lost a batch of distribution letters and it will take an additional 15 days. This behavior is unacceptable. You can't even report there behavior. So hopefully someone reads this prior to choosing this law firm.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by John michael ramirez
I wanted to leave a shout-out to Beth, who was very helpful in answering all my questions and concerns. Thanks Beth and thank you Awko law
Read more
03 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Never gives a status even after three years. He waits on insurance companies to motivate him to move. I can only assume he will file suit when his diary alerts him the 4 yr FL statute is about to expire. Then, of course, he is able to charge his clients more for filing suit. DON'T HIRE!
Read more
11 May, 2016 by Tammy
Mr. Finelli took the time to learn about my disabilities and how they affected my life and my family's life. He was compassionate, always returned my email or phone calls, and showed up to every hearing; on time and ready with a detailed action plan. After a disastrous experience with another lawyer, Mr. Finelli and his firm got the job done.
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Chelsey flanigan
I do not want to give too much detail but it was evident she just wanted my case settled and didn’t want to put in the work although she was paid a hefty amount! I felt completely on my own.
Read more
09 Mar, 2024 by Attitude adjuster
27 Feb, 2024 by Kathy conforti
The best defense attorney you’ve probably never heard of. Excellent lawyer.
Read more
25 Jan, 2022 by Brian foreman
Sister literally got ran over by a dude either high or drunk with video who drove the wrong way on a major highway after jumping the median and said there wasn't anything they could do. He's a coward and has been handed a literal slam dunk case and can't be bothered cause he doesn't know the law. He stated just because someone may have had something in their system doesn't mean they were under the influence. Wtf? Isn't that what under the influence is?.........
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
