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06 Sep, 2024 by Connie r
We’re about 6mths into settling an estate from out of town, and I can’t sing the praises of Mark Vaughn, Spenser Combs and Crystal loud enough. I’m serving as the Executor, and they have been truly fantastic to work with. Most importantly they have helped me avoid mistakes BEFORE making them! I hate redoing work that should have been done right and would require extra explanation to the probate court to correct, so I GREATLY appreciate that when they say, just call/email and ask us first, they MEAN it :) Also, on several occasions that I’ve come to town to clear out the house, they have bent over backward to assist me on minor and major tasks I saw as unsolvable *problems* but to them, it was Par for the course and easily addressed.
After being in this now for several months, a couple notes of advice to offer, for those looking for estate planning & administration: 1) Request for them to do an “Heirs meeting” so they can interpret the Will/trust/whatever documents FOR you. Don’t even try to explain what you don’t know will occur on your own. Let the heirs ask the *attorneys* answer any questions they’re allowed to and describe who works for whom, and why. They essential represent the person who died so they’re basically not allowed to disclose or advise almost anything to the heirs; only the PR is under obligation/allowed to update them (and should do so regularly as the heirs sole their touch point). Having the meeting will keep costs down in the end, since they’ll not need to field all those calls/email from heirs, and not have to reexplain the correct wording, when you explain something wrong or *incompletely* accidentally LOL. When you’re deep in fresh grief after the loss of your loved one, do NOT even try to answer everyone’s questions on your own right off the bat. I’ve learned that even what I read online is grossly inaccurate for how it *actually* works so just ask them every question you have. 2) Take their advice. They really do know their stuff — backwards and forwards. Rely heavily on them b/c mistakes will cost time or money, or both. Better to get it right the 1st time.
Pro Tip: Set up your financial accounts for the estate with Susan/Martha/Dana over at FirstBank in the *Pinterest Plaza* location. Together, with this firm, they have been an efficient dream team, after a very rough start at another local bank. You won’t regret using either.
Lastly, we had to sell property and used Craig Phifer to review the listing agreement and close our side, and had a great experience. Very knowledgeable, very detail-oriented, fairly-priced, and clear instructions. (Not a lot of “hand-holding” since they’re probably used to dealing with higher-end clientele who know what they’re doing already LOL) But, that said, every single question I had if Melissa (his paralegal/assistant), she was happy to answer clearly and in as much detail as I needed :) This office is everything a team of attorneys SHOULD be.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Taylor renee
I have done 2 transactions with this firm. Tabitha being the main point of contact for each. I am only giving two starts because the transactions closed and there were not any huge issues that held up closing. Tabitha is not someone that I would ever work with again. She is rude, and has no communication skills whatsoever as well as no customer service skills. It felt like I was inconveniencing her when I would call to ask questions. I get several emails with documents attached to them with absolutely no explication on what they were. If I didn’t have experience in the real estate industry I wouldn’t have had a clue what they were. I will be taking my business elsewhere in the future.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Kimberly martinez
Used Mr. Clarke in the past & was satisfied with his work. Recently contacted office to get an appointment for new law matters & could not even get someone to schedule me an appointment! Follow up was unprofessional. Guess my money isn't good enough now. Went to someone else.
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07 Sep, 2024 by Neeru kakkar
We hired Jim Van Kemp and regret it. He continued a case against our will and then did not show up on that date. He and his office never returned our phone calls after repeated promises of a call back!! Extremely unprofessional and unethical. We ended up hiring another attorney and need our retainer back!!
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07 Sep, 2024 by Rahul kakkar
Jim is the most unprofessional attorney I have come across in the last 25 years of working with scores of them. My son paid him 1250 dollars last year to fight a traffic case and Jim asked the judge for continuation without my son’s consent. After that he would not schedule the case. He kept postponing it. On one of the court dates he was supposed to represent my son but failed to appear and failed to inform my son who lives in a different county. My son got arrested and my wife had to rush from Fayetteville to Raleigh to plead with the magistrate. The whole thing cost us a bail money of 2000/-. After that Jim never returned phone calls and emails from my son, my wife, my son’s civil attorney and myself. My son had to hire another attorney after one year of drama and dragging by this unscrupulous attorney. That cost him another 750/ dollars. So here is a young man left with a wrongful arrest and 4000/- dollars down due to shear negligence of Jim Van Kamp. You can decide yourself if you want to hire him.
Although I am not in a position to make a diagnosis, other reviews also suggest he has hard time remembering and executing his task as an attorney. May be time for him to get some medical/psychological advice. If this is his attitude, god save his clients.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Illie baker jr.
Very helpful
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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.
