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26 Sep, 2024 by Dennyse martinez
08 Mar, 2024 by Tina wurster
HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Barbara and Jasmine were excellent to work with. Always extremely helpful and efficient.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Kalin wurster
Outstanding Law Firm. Barbara and Jasmine were amazing to work with. Very helpful. Highly recommend
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15 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney Raymond Areshenko has helped my family and myself with various matters over the years, ranging from lemon law, estates/trusts, personal injury, contracts, HOA disputes, review of documents, etc. He has always provided an honest and accurate assessment of our rights and options and we have only had positive experiences and favorable outcomes with Raymond.
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04 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I asked an unusual legal medical question that Mr. Areshenko answered very quickly and succinctly. I'm going through a difficult time in my life right now with advanced prostate cancer, and he eased my anxiety about my current situation. Now I can go ahead and get the genetic testing my doctor advised for me without causing any issues that were concerning me. Thank you so much!
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23 Aug, 2022 by Michael
Raymond represented me in retrieving my classic car from an "alleged" auto restoration shop where my car had languished for several years. Raymond carefully listened to my story, then wrote a demand letter to the shop instructing them to release my car and related parts. The letter was perfect in tone and effectiveness.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Darrius
After contacting a few lawyers in the Reno area speaking to Cory i know i was making the correct choice for a lawyer who is determined to help in any way! Cory is definitely a fighter in this field and i 100% recommend him to anyone looking for that
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02 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy
Cory gave me a PHENOMENAL consultation. All the while, giving me over an hour of his time. He was so incredibly helpful and wanted to make sure I knew all the necessary steps to take, as I am unversed on the topic. His help made me feel much more educated about my situation.
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21 May, 2024 by Bryan
Very nice lawyer, help me a lot in the questions that i had, i live in reno and sometimes it is pretty hard to find lawyer who can guide you in all this process
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14 Aug, 2024 by Daisy
Byron was a great attorney I had called other attorneys to help me with my case no other attorney would take my case when me and my husband met Byron and hired him he reassured me 100 percent we were going to win my case and he did we didn’t even have to step foot inside the court house we did all the hearings via zoom which was even better . If you are definitely any any kind of legal trouble Byron is your guy
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19 Mar, 2024 by Cs
Byron got my first offense DUI closed and essentially all I had to do was pay a $500 fine no other punishments. And I didn’t even have to show up in person to court. The judge was super easy on me because Byron set me up to have all the requirement finished prior to the hearing.
Overall an amazing experience, Bryon was extremely helpful, friendly and always available over the phone.
Highly recommend
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11 Mar, 2024 by Amy
Byron went above and beyond my expectations. This was my very first time dealing with a criminal case and as such knew absolutely nothing. The PD’s office did the least possible to explain or help us understand the ins and outs regarding my nephews charges/case. Byron spent over an hour on a Friday night explaining things in detail and making sure I understood what he was explaining. Although Byron was unable to directly represent us in this case, he directed me to a very good known lawyer for further assistance.
This dude is legit hilarious and tells you stories to empathize as well as to help you understand what he is explaining. As we know all the legal mumbo jumbo can get confusing without the proper education.
I have no doubt Byron would have been an amazing person to represent us. Unfortunately, we reached out a bit too late.
Thanks Byron for all the info and the laughs. Definitely needed during these tough times.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Sebastian
I was in a very bad vehicular accident at the beginning of this year. Steven, Laura, and Greg made an extremely difficult and stressful situation so much better than it would have been if I had tried to handle it on my own. They were all up front, responsive, kind, and just overall very trustworthy which is about as much as you can hope for when seeking out an attorney. Also, the fees associated with everything were very reasonable. I would highly recommend Steven and his staff to anyone that might find themselves in a similar unfortunate situation.
Thank you again Steven, Laura, and Greg! In a world where it can be hard to find help from people you can trust, you've helped restore some of my faith in humanity.
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08 Aug, 2023 by Jeffrey
I have nothing but praise for Steven and his staff! From day 1 When I met with his wife in his office, to the final days getting an awesome Settlement Check! My case was bazar in the least, I was run down by a woman who got impatient in a Costco parking lot. I was pushing my cart to the truck when all of a sudden I was on the ground! This woman who I never saw even after she ran me down was so impatient she just couldn't wait those extra seconds for me to be out of her way She sped up to get around me and misjudged and down I went. My daughter was in shock screaming at this woman "you ran my dad over" Soon I was ambulanced to the Hosp and x-rays were taken of my left foot. 6 broken bones 4 on top and both sides of my Ankle. The date when this happened was Dec 19th right before Christmas!! I spent the next 30 days laid up on my daughters couch and couldn't get up at all.. The blood rushing to my foot was excruciating PAIN!!! So after returning back to San Diego I kept in constant contact with Steven. We spoke on the phone a few times and he explained my options as we moved forward. For months medical bills came in and The staff was right on top of the billing to negotiate the best cost for my services rendered. You wont believe the talent of this staff as the medical bill total went from $27,000 down to $2700!! What!! I couldn't believe it! Laura Klearman, Stevens wife was the miracle worker behind this process! She handles all the fine details involved that I wouldn't of had a clue were to start! So as time went on and healing is so slow I'm 69 years old and healing takes time. To this day 8 1/2 months later, I'm still a bit sore. Next up on the arsenal of experts was Greg, the man who does your bidding with the Insurance Companies. His expertise got me a negotiated awesome settlement amount after going back and forth with an adjuster who was resisting a descent fair settlement. Actually an adjuster is just the middle man who is given an amount from his boss to negotiate from. So Greg battled on until a very fair settlement figure was reached I agreed to the amount and before you know it I had my money in the mail!! I was very pleased at the outcome of my case. Luckily I had no surgery and I had a powerful VIDEO of the whole thing from Costco cameras in the parkin lot Everyone who say it couldn't believe what they saw! I still am in shock when i watch it! So no disputing the facts. If the settlement figure was too low to my satisfaction then the next step would have been litigation. This is where Steven steps in. He's had many years of court time settling cases for the best money possible! This is why his firm is rated so high in the search engines. All in all I'm happy I chose his Firm to represent me!! I would do it again in a heartbeat!!Thanks Steven, Laura , Greg and Staff who had a hand in my case Couldnt have done this without you!!
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26 Jun, 2023 by Joseph & karen
My son was visiting in Nevada & was the passenger & was hit directly on his side, was airlifted to Renown & was there for over a week, My husband & I rushed up to Reno & stayed there till he was sent back to California. I called Steve Klearmans office as a recommendation & was so glad I did. Laura called me back & put me at ease. She's top notch. Steve & staff kept us up to date & informed & my son recovered & was very pleased with his settlement. Thank you so much.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Petty
Mathew has a unique blend of being very personable, but also very professional when it’s time to turn it on. When we got to court, he was light years ahead of the opposition and his skills shined bright.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Cheri
Attorney work was recommended to me from another former client. His reputation was all that and more. He was Blount, honest and thorough.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Melisa
If you’re in a pinch and looking for an attorney in northern Nevada, they simply don’t get better than Mathew Work. Take your time, read through the reviews, get to know the reputations of each attorney and then make a decision. I’m so grateful my decision was attorney work.
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05 Feb, 2024 by Shaleen
I am so internally grateful for Benson and Bingham and my attorney Todd and Goharik I would like to take this opportunity to say how happy I am and have a happy my daughter is with everything that they have done for me and my daughter with our car accidents in feb 2023 my daughter and I got in to 2 different car accidents in 30 mins of each it was the worst day ever but Todd and Goharik mad things better and smoother for me and my daughter. Thank you again for everything.
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06 Jul, 2023 by Estefani
I’ve worked with Benson and Bingham in several cases now , workers comp and car accidents . Always a pleasure to work with them , very helpful and attentive throughout the whole process.
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23 Jun, 2023 by Leo
Very happy with care, concern, and results with Benson & Bingham. With one call, the wheels went into motion and I received the best help and the best results to get my self and my family back into another vehicle after our total loss. Can't recommend enough.
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02 Dec, 2021 by Lavell
Ive had other lawyers in the past and although they did their job; I will recommend Lee and I have to say, he is a Hi Performance Lawyer in my honest opinion.
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09 Jun, 2021 by Ed
“Lee Hotchkin, Esq., recently represented me in a complex DMV felony case related to my hotly contested divorce, regarding a title transfer issue, related to attempting to repair a vehicle that I had purchased new in 2003 with community income… that was involved in a minor accident that the other driver admitted fault, mutually trading insurance information.
Due to COVID restrictions and courthouse closings, Lee Hotchkin was able to postpone the hearing for almost 3 years (with my approval) while strategically negotiating with the DA to plea bargain a trumped up felony charge that was filed by two of my older children, who were given my 50% proxy community interest in our estate without my consent, who never invested a single dollar in our LLC’s, nor the vehicle that it was titled under, all at the prodding of my soon to be ex-wife.
The complexity of combining a ridiculous exaggerated felony charge, with a seemingly never ending divisive divorce, involving over-emotional older children, was a potential recipe for a disastrous outcome… that Lee Hotchkin ultimately worked to our benefit… by pleading only to a minor misdemeanor, thus avoiding a felony trumped up charge and a time consuming trial…!
Although, my attorney Lee Hotchkin and myself BOTH believed that we would have prevailed at trial had we decided NOT to settle… I realized that this legal episode was not worth the resources, emotional toll, nor the expense, to prove our point and innocence while possibly bearing the potential legal liability and outcome of having to go through a jury trial… and by taking Lee Hotchkin’s professional expert advice, we were able to obtain the best possible resolution… for the least expense… whereby by pleading “No Contest”, I also avoid being sued in the future… and in one year, Lee Hotchkin will “SEAL” my criminal record… as if this nightmare never happened…!
Thank You Lee…!” EDL.
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22 Dec, 2019 by Chris kelly
Lee the words of gratitude and appreciation. I can't forget the day I met you and your daughter. You assured me everything would be ok. I would of never saw this coming for trying to be good to someone going through a tough time in life. I explained how much my son and daughters meant to me and you said Chris breathe you will be with them I assure you next time watch for the red flags. I still have love for the blue line Reno Police. If your looking for an experienced and educated lawyer Lee and his daughter Christine are just that. I never even had to step in the court room. Lee is Fierce in Washoe Country but respected by the Judges and the ADA’s.
Thank you again, Lee
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20 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Carlos consulted me on a case of embezzlement and I was scheduled for an appearance in court in January. However, thanks to Joey and his amazing team they were able to get my court appearance dismissed! Thank you all so much for your hard work and wonderful service!
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18 Mar, 2019 by Steven
I called Joey Gilbert Law from out of state. They advised me that Nevada considers at fault to be criminal misdemeanor. The office was open 24/7, Bianca took my information. She got back to me with quote from Joey. They took my case. They were always available. Answered all my questions. The customer service was excellent. My case was dismissed. I’ve had several lawyers, many of them ineffective and difficult. Joey and his team was one of the best. I highly recommend him. I will use him if need be in the future.
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19 Sep, 2018 by Mariela
I recommend Joey Gilbert and staff for their excellent work. Carlos and Roger helped me with the whole process of imigracion with my husband. I recommend then 100%
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13 Jun, 2024 by Russell martinez
Kind, respectful, professional, involved, and truly cares.
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14 Nov, 2023 by Hugo dorado
12 Jan, 2023 by Star monreal
He is the best kind and friendly.
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10 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Cope's office went above and beyond to insure all aspects were dealt with including the IRS . I highly recommend his services and his dedication to his client's needs
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09 Nov, 2017 by Renay
Mr. Cope and Gary were a pleasure to deal with and were extremely helpful. If I had questions or sent an email the response was very prompt. They were very thorough and I felt they had my best interest in mind at all times.
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09 Nov, 2017 by Vickii
I am happy I chose Mr. Cope. My peace of mind and the positive out come was such a relief. I was happy dealing with Gary, he was on top of the paper work and made my part easy. Mr. Cope was kind and understanding.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Viviana leon
05 Apr, 2024 by Perla navarrete
Greta is a great lawyer she is honest and affordable .she helped me and my husband get our green cards and if we had any questions regarding our case she would give us answers .she also was very flexible with our work schedule ,not all lawyers meet up after hours . We really appreciate all the hard work she did for us .thankyou Greta 🙏🙂
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31 Mar, 2024 by Isabel rodriguez
Greta helped my family to get the Green Card through the employment-based visa (EB-3). We came to the U.S with a teacher visiting program and all the attorneys we talked before told us it would be impossible for us to stay in the U.S permanently. When we met Greta she said all those lawyers had no idea and that she would help us. It was a long process, more than she or us expected, but she made it possible! And now we have our Green Card at home. She got the Green cards for 3 more families from the same program. She knows what she does and I am truly grateful for her dedication and positivity to my case. Thank you Greta!
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02 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Pat Leverty reviewed and promptly advised me on a matter. I reached out asking questions and he was more than willing to help. He is experienced, and very knowledgeable.
I would recommend him.
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01 Aug, 2023 by Heyden
Pat and Jess handled our case with professionalism, care, and grace from start to finish. Nothing can change what happened to our child, but the team ensured his best interests were represented and gave us the exact outcome we'd hoped without seeing a single day inside a courtroom.
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18 May, 2023 by Zoe
I was referred to Patrick Laverty who provided some advice on how to respond to an insurance company where my claim was held up. I had been working on it since February 2022 (1 yr and 2 months). Within a week the insurance company paid out my claim in full. This was after only one conversation with Pat and he did not charge me! I was so impressed and forever grateful for his help, expertise, and kindness. Please call Pat to get your insurance needs taken care of instead of fumbling through it on your own. The insurance company was clearly taking advantage of my ignorance on insurance!
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08 Feb, 2016 by Darcie
Rich was great. he communicated with me the entire time. He worked with me for over two years and was very patient whenever I had questions or didn't understand something. He always was honest about how he felt about my case and what the difficulties would be so that I was never caught off guard in the process.That type of honesty was greatly appreciated. I feel he went above and beyond to make it as pain free and stress free as possible.
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15 Jan, 2016 by Erin
As a person who did not have any knowledge on hiring attorneys..(who really does.) I consulted with a few. I ended up going back to Rich as he took time to talk and review my case with me. Always returned my calls/emails. Addressed my concerns and always dealt with the details. I ended up hiring him again when I got injured.. He kept me up to date and in the loop without pressures so I could heal. He is an excellent attorney who will go above for his clients.
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14 Jan, 2016 by Jeremy
Rich has handled 2 separate personal injury cases for me. He was excellent at handling all the legal stuff while I focused on healing. I wouldn't even think of hiring anyone else. He helped me find good doctors to make sure I got the best care for a speedy recovery. He took care of everything with the insurance companies. He was excellent at responding to me whenever I had a question.
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03 Nov, 2023 by David
Adriana and her team are exceptionally professional , attentive and detailed. I interviewed numerous law firms prior to hiring her. My case was very complicating requiring her team to stay diligent from start to finish. My insurance provider did not make the process easy demanding numerous medical records which they provided. I am honestly pleased with the outcome and the settlement she and her team were able to secure.
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01 Dec, 2020 by Julie
Adriana was fantastic. I fired my previous lawyer who did nothing on my auto accident claim and never updated me. Adriana kept me informed every week on the status of my claim and fought hard to get my previous attorney to lower his fees (he tried to get a big fee for doing nothing. She even remained calm when he cussed her out). She got my auto insurance to pay me more money for my totaled car beyond what they originally paid me. She was pleasant and easy to talk to and a darn hard worker. Highly recommend her to anyone. If I ever need a lawyer again I will hire Adriana. Thanks Adriana for doing a great job on my claim.
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30 Nov, 2020 by Tanya
Adriana has been incredible in helping us meet our goals as a growing restaurant group. Always incredibly responsive, insightful and a huge asset to our team. So grateful to have found her!
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17 Oct, 2019 by Adam
Rodney helped with a pro-bono bankruptcy and even on the last day was able to take care of things that hadn't showed in a different report. He is friendly and welcoming and was even friendly to my puppy!
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12 May, 2017 by Nancy
A true professional !! Mr.Sumpter wears his profession like a glove. The Man , with charisma , style , leadership and his incredible knowledge of law, rendered my narcissistic x husband silent,which no man had ever done!! Instant gratification for me lol Mr.Sumpter successfully won my litigation dispute !!! I referred him to my friend Shelly. After numerous failed attempts to collect dept from former spouse ,I strongly advised her to contact Mr.Sumpter. After years of failed attempts.Shelly had all but given up. Finally,reluctantly, she contacted Mr.Sumpter. The Man won, Shelly was very happy and I never ,once , lol said ,"I told you so".!!!
Sincerest, heartfelt, thank you, and God bless Rodney Sumpter ,')
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20 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr Sumpter has handled many of my businesses , financial, family law, and estate planning for over 15 years. He is the professional attorney and very impeccable as an attorney. I have recommended him to many people throughout Northern Nevada for years. You will not be sorry when you hire him and his firm.
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21 May, 2019 by William
I reached out to Wyatt to help with a Living Will and he was phenomenal to work with during the whole process! I plan on using him for all of my Will/Trust and personal injury needs in the future.
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02 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I was in a tough situation.. From the beginning there was strait forward communication about what was going on the entire process. The end result was the best result I could have ever hoped for!
No matter how difficult your situation I would recommend no matter what!!
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08 Sep, 2016 by Daniel
Being in real estate, im posed with legal questions inevitably every day. Now, i can't answer these questions effectively nor with legal power, but i know who i can count on every time i need to obtain legal consultation.
Wyatt Herbst is always available to take care of my questions and often legal concerns. His services are quick, efficient and always opens my eyes to why i'm glad to have him in my corner as my Attorney.
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26 May, 2021 by Shirin
Phillip Dorin is an incredible attorney. He has been the most hardworking, honest and nicest attorney. I recommend him highly. He knows his stuff.
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26 May, 2021 by Kevin
Long story short - Mr Dorin got me the physical therapy treatment I needed after my accident six months ago and I was financially well compensated as a result of being hit in this same accident by a drunk driver. Moreover, I’ve been involved in three previous accidents and this was the best experience I had overall and it was due to the expertise of Mr. Dorin. I highly recommend him!
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17 Jan, 2022 by Lau r
26 May, 2020 by Chrissie w.
20 Sep, 2017 by James
Justin helped me review a contract and provided a clear and concise legal solution to my concerns.
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18 Jan, 2015 by Jean
Brian Brown was referred by a friend for advice on residential real estate and roadway liability concerns. He is very knowledgeable in this liability field. He answered all my questions, offered sound advice and clearly put his recommendations in writing. He was quick to have the answers and personal experience with my particular issues. He responded rapidly and kept me informed of his progress. I highly recommend Mr. Brown.
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18 Dec, 2017 by Janon
Phil was courteous and attentive. He listened patiently, interjecting questions when needed. Correspondence was sent out quickly and documents filed on time. Phil was easy to reach if I had a concern and was also excellent at contacting me when there was something to report.
I went into our first meeting with opposing counsel and my now, ex-partner feeling very anxious. Immediately it became obvious Phil was well-versed in my case. He was able to root out the weakness in opposing counsels positions, surgically dissecting inconsistencies in their arguments, showing they were ill-prepared. By the end of this first meeting I was sitting tall, knowing that I was in good hands.
It was enjoyable working with Phil. I could tell he really enjoys what he does. He treated my case like a chess game, anticipating opposing counsels moves, then figuring out how to overcome two moves ahead.
One thing I really appreciated was his honesty. He let me know potential costs and time involved with my choice of paths to take.
Sometimes in business you can get bitter and want revenge. You argue over principle rather than a fair and just outcome. Phil kept me focused on the intellectual aspect of my case rather than on my emotions that would have cost me $1000's of wasted dollars. He truly is a remarkable attorney.
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19 Feb, 2017 by Candy
I had a cps case in nevada that was unjust and unfounded. He uncovered the lies and manipulations that were keeping my children from coming home. My children are home.
Happy and healthy
Thank you
Marc Picker
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21 May, 2013 by Frank
We have had Mike Kealy for our attorney, both professionally and personally, for nearly 30 years. Mike's many strenghts include his ability to grasp situations that he may not have previously encountered, his preparedness, patience and willingness to take the time to explain all facets of a given proceeding. We have engaged Mike's services in real estate matters, both on the buying end and selling end, landlord/tenant issues, corporate and civil matters, insurance, litigation, and even a bit in estate planning. Not only do we find Mike's wealth of knowledge and expertise immense, we find that his motto of "prepare, prepare, prepare" certainly pays off on behalf of his clients. There is nothing worse than not knowing where you stand in a given situation and Mike never puts you in that position - he always keeps you informed, makes sure of your understanding, and keeps you apprised of any new developments.
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07 Jan, 2016 by Jule
Ryan McElhinney Esq. of the Barber Law Group helped me reclaim my 'voice' after not being heard in the workplace for four years. Ryan gets results. He is sharp, compassionate, available, Ryan does not disappoint. He takes your case seriously and is very attentive. His staff is top notch as well. I was very fortunate to have been referred to Ryan McElhinney at the Barber Law Group. My emails and phone calls were always answered promptly. I was never left guessing as to the status of my case. I felt he cared. I highly recommend the Barber Law Group/Ryan McElhinney for any legal needs.
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10 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Holly has represented and continues to represent our company in cases brought by a former contractor before the Nevada State court and the Federal District Court n Nevada. She is thorough and knowledgeable, patient and excellent and keeping us up to date on developments. Her legal advice to the company and written arguments to the courts have been comprehensive, power, and most importantly successful. She has successfully pleaded our case each time.
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12 Apr, 2010 by Michelle
Jarrad is very pleasant to work with, and more importantly he is very knowledgeable with regards to the law and does his "homework" to know and understand all that is taking place with our business issue.
Jarrad always makes himself available if we need to speak with on the phone, or if we communicate by email he is quick to answer. He also has an excellent paralegal who works closely with him, who is always available to discuss matters with or to pass on information to Jarrad.
In my opinion, Jarrad offers excellent advice, and represents us as if he were a part of our company. I highly recommend Jarrad to anyone who wants an intelligent and caring attorney.
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15 Sep, 2019 by John powers
Excellent attorney and litigator. Highly recommend him!
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14 Sep, 2019 by Elizabeth rayburn
I have been fortunate enough to have Mike Sullivan represent me for legal services for the last 14 years for both personal and business reasons. He is always honest, to the point and got the job done. He kept me informed every step of the way and we always prevailed! I could not imagine using anyone other than Mike Sullivan. Thank you Mike!
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09 Sep, 2019 by Swope rumors
29 Feb, 2020 by Adam vallaster
My wife had Mr. Spann as an attorney. Mr. Spann was VERY thorough in my wife's case, making sure he found out the facts, and he kept us up to date with current information in her case. Mr. Spann definitely seemed to go the extra mile for his client.
Very down to earth professional. I would refer all of my friends and family to him and his office.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy
When I found myself in a difficult place, Theresa consulted with me for an hour and a half to give me as much information as possible as to how I might handle my situation. Considering the amount of help she provided me with, it is clear she truly wants the best for her clients
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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.
