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05 Oct, 2015 by Athena
Look no further if your ever in need a the BEST Defense Attorney in AZ! I live in California and was so scared when I was trying to find an Attorney for my son who made a very stupid mistake. I was referred to John by another AZ Attorney who didn't have time for my son's case. As soon as I spoke to John, he made my anxiety attack disappear. I knew from the start he was experienced and could get us through this nightmare; and he did. John kept in touch with me throughout the whole process and answered all of my questions and made me and my son feel at ease. John also worked with me on his fee. I know this kind of hard work is expensive, but John worked out a very reasonable fee and saved us money. Thank you John, for all your hard work and dedication to my sons case. We appreciate you!
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08 Sep, 2015 by Michael
Wow, where to begin. This case was the first time I was ever a defendant. Scared of not knowing what happens, I reluctantly found Mr. Moore. He used his experience to explain the entire process to me and put my mind at ease. I would definitely use Mr. Moore in the future. We won our case( SLAM DUNK) and now I am in a better place for it. Mr Moore stood by my side and refuted all the lies propagated by the plaintiff. I cannot put in words how grateful I am to have the pleasure to do business with Mr Moore.
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03 Jan, 2013 by Kimberly
I cannot stress enough how much John Moore did for me in a time of crisis, frustration, fear and stress. From the minute I called his office and talked to his partner, they were both very responsive, friendly and started looking into my case right away, before even meeting with John in person.
During my initial meeting with John I was a complete wreck. I was nervous, embarrassed, about to cry, and my mind was all over the place. From the very beginning of him offering me water and walking me to his office, I already felt better knowing there was NO JUDGEMENT and that he really just wanted to listen to the details of what had happened during my free consultation.
John was very friendly and easy going, and didn't have that "cocky" lawyer appeal I had seen before and didn't like might I add. He was very honest with the fact that I did, indeed, need a lawyer and that it would be expensive but that he would charge way less than other "big name" lawyers. He gave me the time to shop around and said to contact him if I decided to move forward with him as my representation with absolutely no pressure.
He was exactly right! I went to 3 other lawyers and he spot on about the price (competitors being anywhere form 3-6k more)! Not only was the price at others TOO high for me to afford or pay, but the environment and personality's of the others I visited were dreadful. One was a complete salesman and then asked me for 10k, another was basically falling asleep during my consultation and then said, "well, there isn't much I can do," and the third was so unmemorable that I can't even recall anything about him!
While money was a factor in choosing the right lawyer, I am a big "gut instinct feeling" type person, and knew that I would ultimately choose the person who best resonated with me! I feel lucky and blessed, because not only was that person John, but he was the most affordable as well. I truly believe it was destiny for me to find him.
Specifically, once hired, John kept me in the loop at all times and more importantly- did everything I needed him to do. He asked the right questions, gathered all of my information, handled the court dates and mostly, kept me calm. I kept asking him if there is anything I should do, or how worried should I be? His response was always calm and with a smile, "Don't do anything and don't worry... you really don't have to worry." This was so hard to hear because I WAS worried. Worried about my future, going to jail and just in general, was a big ball of stress. He totally helped calm me down and even assured me it was okay for me to cross the US/Mexico border to go on a retreat I had already planned! Not only did he tell me to go, but he told me to have a great time!
About my case, he handled it well... beyond well... COULDN'T HAVE GONE BETTER! I was charged with a Felony 4 for a first offense shoplifting case. I was so afraid of reading about my future and what being a "felon" would do to my life. Not only did he get it dropped to a Misdemeanor, but he also pushed up on the prosecuting lawyer to allow me to take the shoplifting diversion program, in which once completed, the case would be closed. Oh happy day! He did it and all I had to do was show up to court, plead "no contest" and then agree to complete the diversion program, which I did within two weeks!
In my opinion, John went ABOVE AND BEYOND what he had to. I learned more in his free consultation than the other three free consultations combined! In conclusion, if you are looking for a lawyer I CANNOT stress enough how perfect John is for the job! While he was my criminal defense lawyer, I am confident that whatever your legal issue he could help and do so with confidence, a smile and grace! He was honestly the best person to help me navigate around a legal system I know nothing about! You will not be sorry if you need to hire him for any reason!!!
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13 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Gary Hudson Jr. Is a great, and friendly guy, he makes sure that everything you need he gets done. He kept me updated on every situation regarding my case. Overall I am very satisfied with his attorneys office.
Thank you Gary Hudson
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15 Feb, 2015 by Lydia
My husband and I highly recommend Gary to anyone who is overwhelmed trying to handle the aftermath of a car accident. Gary has brought us safely though two totaled cars, serious injuries, and the tangled web that is insurance/health care.
We found Gary to be conscientious, effective, and an excellent communicator. He provides a reasonable overview of the initial claim, and the case as it evolves, which is crucial to a solid resolution. Having Gary navigate our insurer and the other driver's insurer made all of the difference to our being able to rest and heal from our injuries.
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26 Jun, 2014 by Misty
I was involved in a personal injury suit. From day one I felt very confident in Garys ability to represent me. I had constant contact with email updates and phone calls when I needed things explained. There were days where I just needed reassurance and Gary always had time for me. My case avoided actual litigation because of Gary. I was very pleased with every aspect of dealing with this firm and directly with Gary Hudson Jr.
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15 Nov, 2015 by Carleen
We were referred to John Micheaels from a friend whom is also an attorney. After our first meeting with we knew he was the right Attorney to handle our case. John and his staff have been incredibly professional and compassionate in handling our malpractice case. He has be responsive from day one and has walked us through each step of the process. His brilliance and impeccable attention to detail is amazing, he does not miss even the smallest of details. He is a bulldog with a heart of gold that has fought diligently for us. We highly recommend John Micheaels to anyone looking for a smart, dedicated and tough as nails attorney.
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12 Nov, 2015 by Gabe
When you go through a traumatic event, there are roller coasters of emotions and feelings. Sometimes you don't know which way is up.......
When I met John and he took my case and led me through every step! He kept me informed and handled my case with the upmost respect for my family. He truly did everything right by my kids and I.
I have recommended John several times after my case was settled. I would never recommend any one else!
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28 Mar, 2017 by Harry
I engaged Matt LaVelle to help negotiate a successful conclusion to a complex business problem. Some of our family trusts made equity investments and also were leaders to an operating business, which is very heavily regulated. The business performed poorly. Matt was able to identify a buyer for the business who planned to re-purpose the main asset. The relationship was complex because we had a business operator, landlord and other investors involved. He was able to negotiate a very successful conclusion, even though the landlord turned hostile and the business operator ended up with little to show from the arrangement.
Without Matt's personal minute-to-minute attention and his sensitivity to all nuances for the various parties involved, this transaction could never have come together. The end result was a very good outcome for the landlord, staff, customers, the new business owner/operator, and all things considered, for us. The former business operator achieved a graceful exit without liability or potential legal action. Matt truly negotiated a win, win, win arrangement for all parties. I would heartily recommend Matt to assist with complex litigation and sensitive negotiations. He is bright, capable, experienced and results oriented. He is 5 stars in my book.
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26 Mar, 2017 by Erik
Mr. LaVelle and I have worked together for over a decade now. He has successfully dealt with many complex Family Trust issues, business acquisitions, commercial real estate purchases, and partnership disputes. He has done an exceptional job, and I will continue to utilize his services going forward.
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28 Sep, 2012 by Joanne (jo)
A few years ago he took my case that was up against a very powerful hospital. Mr. Finley did get justice for me. His office did keep me informed and I always felt I was in good hands. I would recommend Mr. Finley to any one who had been turned down by another attorney.
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09 Oct, 2011 by Sarah
Mr. Finley is one of the most knowledgeable and honest lawyers I have ever met
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06 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Patrick was amazing. From the very beginning he made us feel at ease taking matters into his hands in a agressive yet professional manner. He communicated with me often and handled the case quicker than i could have imagined. I highly recommend him.
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15 May, 2018 by Kellie
My daughter was represented by him. She was 19yrs old and looking at a possible 25+. He got her 3yrs probation.
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5.0
2 Reviews
07 Dec, 2013 by Dina
Brian made a very difficult time easier. He and his assistant were always there to answer any questions and keep me informed every step of the way. Even after the case was settled he was still there to help us whenever we needed. I appreciate it and would happily recommend him to other families who find themselves in similar situations.
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10 Apr, 2013 by Judith
Brian was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and considerate while handling my medical malpractice suit. He kept me informed of everything going on during this time and gave me answers for all my questions. He told me what steps would be followed and the possible outcomes. His perseverance resulted in a good outcome at the end without having to undergo a jury trial. I would highly recommend Brian to anyone needing an excellent attorney.
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02 May, 2017 by Bill
An opposing counsel's worst nightmare, Ben Jemsek lives to litigate. If you think your case may not settle for what you deserve, have Ben Jemsek do the negotiation or litigation. If the other side won't properly negotiate, then they had better be prepared to litigate. Enough said, if you want to maximize your potential reward, hire this seasoned trial lawyer. You will be delighted with the results.
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14 Jul, 2014 by Mitch
"He was always concerned and always willing to explain every detail of my case! Needless to say hey totally destroyed the other attorney in court! I almost felt bad for her!"
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03 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I've used Alex on a number of different issues, she has always met and far exceeded my expectations, I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking legal counsel
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28 Aug, 2015 by Jessie
Ms. Rubin has helped me with numerous legal issues, and I cannot say enough positive things about her services.
She handled a car accident that I was involved in (accident was the other drivers' fault) and the outcome could not have been better - I not only got all the money to buy a new car but also my entire insurance deductible back!
She handled my contract negotiations when the small, family-owned business that I work for was bought out by a major national corporation, and again helped me achieve a terrific outcome (she went head to head with this large company's entire legal TEAM to get me a fair compensation package).
Ms. Rubin is highly skilled in everything to do with the law it seems. She made herself available to me and continuously went above and beyond. I still call her any time I have a legal question of any kind, and she is always able to give me the answers and advice I need. If you need an attorney - for ANYTHING - this is the one to call.
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26 Apr, 2019 by Kelly
Ben is extremely knowledgeable, quick to address my concerns, and effective. The legal process was stressful; however, he put my mind at ease by explaining the process and presenting all of my options. I strongly recommend Ben to anyone looking for a great attorney!
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25 Feb, 2015 by Saeid
Dear Mr Eid:
I want to thank you for your impressive and effective representation during the Mediation meeting dealing with my issue.
I cannot express sufficiently just how appreciative I am of your efforts. It was clear that you were fully prepared to deal with any questions of fact or of law that arose during the mediation, and your superb preparation and presentation is what I credit with the success.
You are truly a man who deserves the tile “Counsel”, as your approach and demeanour are what any person would expect and desire from a trusted advisor, confidant, and counsellor. I will have no hesitation is seeking your assistance with legal matters in the future and will enthusiastically recommend you to all my friends, family, and business associates.
Though this letter will no doubt fail to convey to you the true depth and extent of my appreciation, I hope that it conveys my gratitude in some measure.
Yours truly,
Saeid
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07 Jan, 2017 by Thomas
I witnessed Daniel Treon's legal skills by being on the other side of the case. He is a determined fighter for the rights of his client.
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15 May, 2014 by Mike
I highly recommend Dan, I had a major deal with my insurance company denying me coverage, We settled without a trial and Dan was able to get coverage and all fees.
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06 May, 2015 by Vickie
My family was in an accident caused by another driver and we had a difficult time agreeing with the offer the insurance company initially presented. We were referred to Mr. Tijjani and are completely satisfied with the results he achieved. Right from the start he explained the whole process and negotiated with the medical providers and insurance company. We were able to stand back and let him handle the whole situation which took stress away from the family. He consistently kept us updated on the progress of the case so we were never in the dark. He is quick to respond to questions and willing to explain how the legal system works when we did not understand the “why” behind something. Mr. Tijjani stood up for our rights as the injured party and made sure the final settlement was fair. Since our first experience with Him, we have referred other friends because we want them to receive the same level of care and legal guidance we experienced.
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05 May, 2015 by John
TJ was the calm and focus in my life after being stupid enough to drink and drive. Always responsive and crystal clear where we were in the process. I could not imagine trying to tackle the legal system with out him.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Pgilbertser arizona
20 Apr, 2020 by Isaac rothschild
An unbelievable talented group of intelligent attorneys focused on solving problems.
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12 Feb, 2019 by Stephen
Kyle was contacted by Christopher Deacon of Stewarts Law, a lawyer in England. My mother enlisted the help of lawyers when I had come out of Intensive care at Southampton Hospital, England. My accident was: on 29th April 2017 I was cycling accross America. When I was in Arizona a truck crashed into me. I broke many bones and was in a coma. Scottsdale hospital in Pheonix saved my life. I have now received my legal settlement. Kyle had a big involvement in achieving this.
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10 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
I contacted Kyle for a consultation regarding a dispute I had with my neighbors regarding their tree uprooting our shared fence and the subsequent frivolous counterclaim they made to scare us out of proceeding with our case.
Kyle was very sympathetic and fantastic at listening to our situation and asked great questions to frame the case.
Kyle ultimately guided us in a way that did not warrant hiring him as we were able to pursue the case in small claims along with our insurance provider defending the counterclaim.
I was very appreciative of the time he spent helping us as well as not trying to take advantage of us by coercing us into hiring him.
I hope I never need to engage an attorney again, but since that is unlikely, I will be contacting Kyle and highly recommend him.
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10 Nov, 2014 by Taylor
We are so thankful that we had someone like Mark to help us through such a hard time. Mark is extremely professional and knowledgeable. I never doubted that he knew what he was doing and had the background and legal expertise to get us through any hurdles. He was very good at keeping us informed throughout the entire legal process. He was very good at explaining the options and letting us decide which route to take. When we were unsure, we relied on his judgement and could not be happier with the results. Mark is also surrounded by an amazing legal team including his colleague Lincoln and assistant Gay. They made us feel like a part of their family. I always felt that they had our best interest in mind. Thank you for a great job Mark, we are very grateful.
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10 Nov, 2014 by Brittany
Mark is an amazing person and he goes out of his way to make you feel like family. He also stands up for you more then you could imagine. He will fight for you and never give up. He is extremely loving and kind but don't forget that he is a lawyer and has that side of him fighting for you at all times. Mark is the very best at what he does. He has been in my life for a long time and it is hard to think about not having him calling to see how I am doing. I also want to add that Mark has a great team behind him. Gay is amazing at being there for you no matter what you need. I just want to thank them for helping me through one of the hardest things I have ever been through.
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24 Mar, 2011 by Lbf
He has done, and continues to do a good, job for our company.
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30 Nov, 2010 by Melissa
Kevin was our attorney for a car accident we had a little over a year ago. He was a great client advocate and was also a genuine, helpful attorney. I must have called him what seemed like every ten minutes and he always answered or returned my call quickly. If he didn't have an answer (which was rare) then he would exhaust all avenues to get one for me. I would recommend him to anyone!
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04 Jul, 2012 by Michael
Caroline PILCH and her staff have provided me with an exceptional representation in the Court. Her understanding the principle of doing what is right is foremost. I appreciate her knowledge of the laws and her meticulous approach to presenting your case before the Court. Always looking out for your legal interests.
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14 Apr, 2012 by Happy client
Ms. Pilch did an excellent job handling my legal matter. She always kept me informed as to the status of the case. She was very prompt in responding to my questions, or, calls. I was never left in the dark about what was going on. She explained everything in detail and always discussed both the pros and the cons of the case. Her staff is also very helpful and courteous. My experience was in a litigation related matter and I can say that I highly recommend her for anyone who finds themself in a situation where they need a litigation attorney.
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09 Jan, 2019 by Bob
I have referred many friends and family members. Every time they were impressed and happy Bruce was their lawyer. His record with my referrals was 100%. He is very straight forward and honest. Some times his advice was do not pursue the case. His explanations are definitive and evoke great confidence in his advice.
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02 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Demaree represented me in a legal malpractice case where the first attorney I hired, in an accident/injury case, failed to reach a settlement or file suit within the two year statutory requirement. Mr. Demaree was thorough and professional. He initially told me that his fee would be 33% of my settlement; however, when he was able to reach a settlement quickly, he voluntarily discounted his fee to 25% in order to get me a larger settlement. He did an outstanding job of communicating with me and following through on his word. I would certainly recommend his services to anybody.
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28 Nov, 2017 by Shawn
John represented my family during an unexpected loss. When a third party started making false claims John was able to provide honest, legal and ethical solutions. John proved that he cares about his clients and will do whatever he can to assist. John has shown that he is above reproach and treats his clients as family.
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09 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Handled a several million dollor estate that was left to charities and a $100,000 that was not , equally , with great care and concern. Trust him implisidly.
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03 Apr, 2014 by Lisa
The entire firm made us feel comfortable. Herb Ely and Sara Siesco kindly guided us through the process of personal injury litigation. Their integrity is bar none, and in my mind helped us in unmeasurable ways.
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31 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I worked with Ms. Siesco for the past year now on my case. Sara is very knowledgeable and informed. Paying attention to even the smallest of details. Sara protected my better interest and worked hard in being sure I was informed every step of the way. I can't thank Sara enough for representing me with vigor and enthusiasm to be sure I was treated fairly!
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21 Jun, 2022 by Pgilbertser arizona
20 Apr, 2020 by Isaac rothschild
An unbelievable talented group of intelligent attorneys focused on solving problems.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Pgilbertser arizona
20 Apr, 2020 by Isaac rothschild
An unbelievable talented group of intelligent attorneys focused on solving problems.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Pgilbertser arizona
20 Apr, 2020 by Isaac rothschild
An unbelievable talented group of intelligent attorneys focused on solving problems.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Pgilbertser arizona
20 Apr, 2020 by Isaac rothschild
An unbelievable talented group of intelligent attorneys focused on solving problems.
Read more
21 Jun, 2022 by Pgilbertser arizona
20 Apr, 2020 by Isaac rothschild
An unbelievable talented group of intelligent attorneys focused on solving problems.
Read more
21 Jun, 2022 by Pgilbertser arizona
20 Apr, 2020 by Isaac rothschild
An unbelievable talented group of intelligent attorneys focused on solving problems.
Read more
04 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
He cleard me if a very serious drug trafficing & transportation charge years ago . My rights were violated in the process of my arrest and he saved me a long sentence in prison and would recommend him to any and everyone .
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05 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
Dave Derickson is a phenomenal attorney. He took over my case after a terrible attorney made a mess of it and turned it around. I would highly recommend him.
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26 Jul, 2017 by Sheree
Mr. Walker gave excellent advice and representation without financial hardship. He is well versed in Family Law and provides sound advice.
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14 Apr, 2016 by Rudy
i would recommend Mr walker best lawyer i have used . he represented me in my divorce and kept my son here and made sure i was not taken. very good at what he does !!! i will definitely use him again if needed thank you Mr walker for a great job well done !
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21 Jun, 2022 by Pgilbertser arizona
20 Apr, 2020 by Isaac rothschild
An unbelievable talented group of intelligent attorneys focused on solving problems.
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25 Aug, 2018 by James
Following a horrific vehicle accident, my nephew received the harshest possible charges for an event that we felt was not deserving of such excessive retaliation by the state. He was assigned a public defender who, while good-natured and good-willed, seemed increasingly incapable of doing more for my nephew than simply going through the motions and hoping for some good luck. I decided that I needed to help get a more determined and effective attorney. I had some contacts and got numerous recommendations for "the best" attorneys in Phoenix. Most did not even bother to respond to my inquiries. Someone recommended Marci Kratter, and after reading her statement of purpose and values on her website, I felt we had found the right lawyer for my nephew. I asked her to look at the case and give it to me straight. She responded that this was a terrible situation made more terrible by the egregiousness of the charges against my nephew and that she felt certain she could help. She offered to split her fee with another attorney, Larry Kazan, who was an expert in handling vehicular cases. The result of their efforts was a drastically reduced sentence deal for my nephew, one much more commensurate with what had actually occurred. Larry Kazan shredded the testimony of the state's accident reconstruction agent, proving that much of the charge against my nephew was based on inaccurate and misleading assumptions. His reputation was more than lived up to. He and Marci Kratter were tireless in their defense, massively effective, and generous with both their time and their approach to financial matters. I cannot recommend him sufficiently to match his expertise.
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11 Jun, 2015 by Derek
Mr. Kazan is currently representing me and he has made this difficult experience very easy on me. It is nice knowing you are taken care of by one of the best defense attorneys in Arizona. I just want move on with my life and I know he is doing everything possible to get that for me. I feel very confident in his abilities to seek the best possible outcome during my case. So far I strongly recommend his services.
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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.
