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20 Dec, 2024 by Derrick spatorico
THE BEST!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Raeona cashae
My personal injury attorney was Anna Robbins for my car accident. She handled everything so professionally, she was very straightforward and kept me updated throughout the process. From handling medical bills to ensuring a timely and efficient case, she did an excellent job. If I need legal representation for bodily injury in the future, I am definitely going right back to Anna.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Marilyn specksgoor
Brett did a good job on my behalf. Make it easy for me,I didn't have to travel downtown to finalize my case.
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28 Feb, 2025 by Brian canfield
Highly recommended. Very professional and caring towards one’s case.
A++++++
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17 Feb, 2025 by Megan coburn
Anytime I need help or advice Mike is always there. I don’t have to wait days for a response. I highly recommend him.
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26 Dec, 2024 by Ahathavan murugananthan
5.0
4 Reviews
3.8
314 Reviews
15 Jan, 2025 by Ryan kaddah
22 Nov, 2024 by Kristen bonn
If I could give negative stars then I would. It took months for them to get back to me, just to tell me they couldn't help me. There was a contract dispute and the attorney didn't even read the contract. When I discussed it with her she was telling me one thing and I said, what about section 14? She said I was wrong, but then I read it to her and she said, hold on (so she could read it). Then she wanted to add two figures when it clearly said the difference of them. She asked me if I had anything else from the company and I told her yes I sent it in. She then reviewed it.
Even though she acknowledged my facts were right, told me there was nothing she could do. I said, so it took you months to tell me that? She said she had to review the file. If she had previously reviewed the file and I still had to point things out to her then she needs better reading comprehension.
She decided she wasn't going to help me before she read my file or talked to me - incredibly unprofessional.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Tyra barton
Lack of diversity and inclusion
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25 Nov, 2024 by Libbi martino
The service I received was so terrible I have filed an official attorney grievance with the 7th Judicial District as well as a complaint to the New York Bar Association. My attorney Alex Serles was grossly unprepared for my hearing and utterly incompetent. Even the judge and District Attorney were angry with his lack of preparedness for my case that morning. The judge was going to cancel the hearing as a result. Which would have been another hardship for me having come a long distance travel out-of-state. So instead, my attorney just threw me under the bus to get the hearing done that morning; even after the judge said he had no other option but to “sentence me with all punishments having nothing to go on”, based upon my attorney’s lack of preparedness and gross incompetence. The District Attorney also expressed her anger that Alex Serles had not even updated her on my case in preparation for my hearing. The Senior Management Partner (attorney) as well, was not at all caring nor compassionate regarding the gross negligence I received from my attorney Alex Serles. I cannot warn future clients enough to not hire this firm to represent you. It was an over $5500 thousand dollar expensive lesson for me to learn. “Buyers Beware!”!
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08 Jul, 2024 by David mack
While working for Mr. Witmer in an investigative capacity as a N.Y. State license private investigator.... In the last 5 years, In criminal matters, I've worked on more acquittals with Mr. Witmer than any other lawyer who I currently work with.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Allison dileo
Michael was my lawyer In family court. He was professional and very knowledgeable. Always responded to my calls and emails in a timely manner. Michael went above and beyond, would highly recommend!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Libbi martino
The service I received was so terrible I have filed an official attorney grievance with the 7th Judicial District as well as a complaint to the New York Bar Association. My attorney Alex Serles was grossly unprepared for my hearing and utterly incompetent. Even the judge and District Attorney were angry with his lack of preparedness for my case that morning. The judge was going to cancel the hearing as a result. Which would have been another hardship for me having come a long distance travel out-of-state. So instead, my attorney just threw me under the bus to get the hearing done that morning; even after the judge said he had no other option but to “sentence me with all punishments having nothing to go on”, based upon my attorney’s lack of preparedness and gross incompetence. The District Attorney also expressed her anger that Alex Serles had not even updated her on my case in preparation for my hearing. The Senior Management Partner (attorney) as well, was not at all caring nor compassionate regarding the gross negligence I received from my attorney Alex Serles. I cannot warn future clients enough to not hire this firm to represent you. It was an over $5500 thousand dollar expensive lesson for me to learn. “Buyers Beware!”!
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08 Jul, 2024 by David mack
While working for Mr. Witmer in an investigative capacity as a N.Y. State license private investigator.... In the last 5 years, In criminal matters, I've worked on more acquittals with Mr. Witmer than any other lawyer who I currently work with.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Allison dileo
Michael was my lawyer In family court. He was professional and very knowledgeable. Always responded to my calls and emails in a timely manner. Michael went above and beyond, would highly recommend!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Libbi martino
The service I received was so terrible I have filed an official attorney grievance with the 7th Judicial District as well as a complaint to the New York Bar Association. My attorney Alex Serles was grossly unprepared for my hearing and utterly incompetent. Even the judge and District Attorney were angry with his lack of preparedness for my case that morning. The judge was going to cancel the hearing as a result. Which would have been another hardship for me having come a long distance travel out-of-state. So instead, my attorney just threw me under the bus to get the hearing done that morning; even after the judge said he had no other option but to “sentence me with all punishments having nothing to go on”, based upon my attorney’s lack of preparedness and gross incompetence. The District Attorney also expressed her anger that Alex Serles had not even updated her on my case in preparation for my hearing. The Senior Management Partner (attorney) as well, was not at all caring nor compassionate regarding the gross negligence I received from my attorney Alex Serles. I cannot warn future clients enough to not hire this firm to represent you. It was an over $5500 thousand dollar expensive lesson for me to learn. “Buyers Beware!”!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Allison dileo
Michael was my lawyer In family court. He was professional and very knowledgeable. Always responded to my calls and emails in a timely manner. Michael went above and beyond, would highly recommend!
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08 Jul, 2024 by James furey
Michael has been very good to me and my family and has always taken care of us. He will work hard to help you with whatever you have going on, and do everything he can to make the process easy for you. I highly recommend Michael to anyone who needs his help.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Teresa boardman
08 Jun, 2024 by Carol gizzi
Met with Cressida Dixon to update and sign our wills. She is beyond professional, organized and personable. So glad we did our update with her....
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26 Sep, 2023 by Darryl dewolff
Don't trust them. They lied to me & are trying to play me
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14 Jul, 2023 by Tasha
Spoke with the lawyer for two seconds and he had a horrible attitude. No thx, I suggest people choose someone with better service skills for the amount of money they get payed.
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03 May, 2023 by Pat kendall
The legal process was smooth and uneventful of any problems!
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30 Aug, 2022 by Janet ennis
15 Jan, 2025 by Ryan kaddah
22 Nov, 2024 by Kristen bonn
If I could give negative stars then I would. It took months for them to get back to me, just to tell me they couldn't help me. There was a contract dispute and the attorney didn't even read the contract. When I discussed it with her she was telling me one thing and I said, what about section 14? She said I was wrong, but then I read it to her and she said, hold on (so she could read it). Then she wanted to add two figures when it clearly said the difference of them. She asked me if I had anything else from the company and I told her yes I sent it in. She then reviewed it.
Even though she acknowledged my facts were right, told me there was nothing she could do. I said, so it took you months to tell me that? She said she had to review the file. If she had previously reviewed the file and I still had to point things out to her then she needs better reading comprehension.
She decided she wasn't going to help me before she read my file or talked to me - incredibly unprofessional.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Tyra barton
Lack of diversity and inclusion
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22 Nov, 2024 by Teresa boardman
08 Jun, 2024 by Carol gizzi
Met with Cressida Dixon to update and sign our wills. She is beyond professional, organized and personable. So glad we did our update with her....
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26 Sep, 2023 by Darryl dewolff
Don't trust them. They lied to me & are trying to play me
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4.2
11 Reviews
3.3
13 Reviews
27 Feb, 2024 by Ryan schack
Works primarily for amerifu credit union.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Scott massey
Horrible. Hire a better lawyer
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14 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I gave this attorney my personal injury case, and because she was running for public office, she and her assistant ignored my case. I ended up going pro se, and settling the case myself, with the company's chief legal officer.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Ryan kaddah
22 Nov, 2024 by Kristen bonn
If I could give negative stars then I would. It took months for them to get back to me, just to tell me they couldn't help me. There was a contract dispute and the attorney didn't even read the contract. When I discussed it with her she was telling me one thing and I said, what about section 14? She said I was wrong, but then I read it to her and she said, hold on (so she could read it). Then she wanted to add two figures when it clearly said the difference of them. She asked me if I had anything else from the company and I told her yes I sent it in. She then reviewed it.
Even though she acknowledged my facts were right, told me there was nothing she could do. I said, so it took you months to tell me that? She said she had to review the file. If she had previously reviewed the file and I still had to point things out to her then she needs better reading comprehension.
She decided she wasn't going to help me before she read my file or talked to me - incredibly unprofessional.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Tyra barton
Lack of diversity and inclusion
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15 Jan, 2025 by Ryan kaddah
22 Nov, 2024 by Kristen bonn
If I could give negative stars then I would. It took months for them to get back to me, just to tell me they couldn't help me. There was a contract dispute and the attorney didn't even read the contract. When I discussed it with her she was telling me one thing and I said, what about section 14? She said I was wrong, but then I read it to her and she said, hold on (so she could read it). Then she wanted to add two figures when it clearly said the difference of them. She asked me if I had anything else from the company and I told her yes I sent it in. She then reviewed it.
Even though she acknowledged my facts were right, told me there was nothing she could do. I said, so it took you months to tell me that? She said she had to review the file. If she had previously reviewed the file and I still had to point things out to her then she needs better reading comprehension.
She decided she wasn't going to help me before she read my file or talked to me - incredibly unprofessional.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Tyra barton
Lack of diversity and inclusion
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15 Jan, 2025 by Ryan kaddah
22 Nov, 2024 by Kristen bonn
If I could give negative stars then I would. It took months for them to get back to me, just to tell me they couldn't help me. There was a contract dispute and the attorney didn't even read the contract. When I discussed it with her she was telling me one thing and I said, what about section 14? She said I was wrong, but then I read it to her and she said, hold on (so she could read it). Then she wanted to add two figures when it clearly said the difference of them. She asked me if I had anything else from the company and I told her yes I sent it in. She then reviewed it.
Even though she acknowledged my facts were right, told me there was nothing she could do. I said, so it took you months to tell me that? She said she had to review the file. If she had previously reviewed the file and I still had to point things out to her then she needs better reading comprehension.
She decided she wasn't going to help me before she read my file or talked to me - incredibly unprofessional.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Tyra barton
Lack of diversity and inclusion
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15 Jan, 2025 by Ryan kaddah
22 Nov, 2024 by Kristen bonn
If I could give negative stars then I would. It took months for them to get back to me, just to tell me they couldn't help me. There was a contract dispute and the attorney didn't even read the contract. When I discussed it with her she was telling me one thing and I said, what about section 14? She said I was wrong, but then I read it to her and she said, hold on (so she could read it). Then she wanted to add two figures when it clearly said the difference of them. She asked me if I had anything else from the company and I told her yes I sent it in. She then reviewed it.
Even though she acknowledged my facts were right, told me there was nothing she could do. I said, so it took you months to tell me that? She said she had to review the file. If she had previously reviewed the file and I still had to point things out to her then she needs better reading comprehension.
She decided she wasn't going to help me before she read my file or talked to me - incredibly unprofessional.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Tyra barton
Lack of diversity and inclusion
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24 Jun, 2022 by Ashley weisenborn
15 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Lisa closed on three property deals for my in-laws. After we had a major problem from another attorney we asked Lisa to help us. I don't believe she ever even looked at our contract because it should have been voided by multiple clauses. She avoided directly answering any of my questions. Because of her incompetence she recommend we sign over our $2000 down payment to the seller, which we did. There was no reason for this because the home was relisted and resold but she had no clue. I had to inform her of these events. How could we even be under contract for a house like that? Nothing made any sense. I never paid her a dime and her office refused to provide me with a bill or list of services performed.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Cherre2008
Steven Witkowicz is a liar and a cheat and can't be trusted, lies to your face and makes deals, takes payoff and brides with your opponent behind your back to work against you, I learned this the hard way. I lost a lawsuit this way using Steven Witkowicz as my attorney, Do yourself a favor and get yourself a lawyer that is honest and can be trusted, DO NOT USE THIS LAW FIRM FOR ANYTHING, ESPECIALLY STEVEN WITKOWICZ AS YOUR ATTORNEY. If I could give Steven Witkowicz a negative star I would.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Kathleen koster
Professional and considerate
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08 Jul, 2024 by Leticia riddle
Steve was by far the best attorney I've had (and I've had many at this point) with my family law issues. He went above and beyond for me! He handled everything himself, and I wasn't always speaking to a paralegal. His paperwork was phenomenal, and the judge threw the case out in less than ten minutes. I wish he was able to handle everything for me. I think about him often, and the impact he had on my family. Best most caring attorney hands down.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Phill rodriguez
UPDATE- I received a call from the elder Handelman, He said he will look into my case and call me back. Still waiting for that call. Then the younger Handelman called me, apparently not knowing the other one called. He said my case was transferred to another lawyer, could/would not tell me why. Then he told me to take my review down, since it was untrue. When I told him that it was still indeed true, since I never received a letter stating they transferred the case, so in my eyes they are still the lawyers handling the case. (By the way, I called the so called new lawyer, and he has no clue what I am talking about. He said he will look into it and call me back. Again still waiting).I said so "instead of 5 and a half years, you had the case for 4 years with no resolution and that is still unacceptable. And for them not to let me know that they handed off the case to another firm, that was very unprofessional. He kept insisting I removed the review, and when I said I would not, he hung up on me.
So, if you want them to return your calls for any reason, please leave them a negative review and they will call you right away.
What a joke. They have been handling my dads estate for 5 and a half years, and I still dont know what is going on. They won't give you a straight answer, there is no correspondence. They are a terrible.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sal panella
08 Jul, 2024 by Christy shaffer
Mr. Martin Handelman and Mr. Steven Witkowitz were both professional and took excellent/outstanding care of my case. They always keep me current and informed on every step of the legal process. I felt safe and protected, I actually felt untouchable because of their expertise and skill. They are powerful lawyers and caring individuals. I am filled with gratitude and warmth for all they have done for me.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Min quaintance
INCOMPETENT LAWYER: STAY AWAY
I hired Steven Witkowicz for a civil lawsuit and he botched up my lawsuit big time due to his incompetence, He is very untrustworthy, don't tell him any of your personal business. He cannot be trusted. He don't like to return phone calls, I would leave several messages on his answering machine and he would not return my calls. He does not follow up with things he tells you he will do, he does not keep his word. I found out during my lawsuit that he was telling the people I was suiting information I was telling him about them, that I thought was confidential between him and I, He does not keep you informed about important things you need to know about your case to be successful. He botched my lawsuit up and I had to fire him and get another attorney and start from scratch. STAY AWAY, YOU WILL REGRET IT!!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Phill rodriguez
UPDATE- I received a call from the elder Handelman, He said he will look into my case and call me back. Still waiting for that call. Then the younger Handelman called me, apparently not knowing the other one called. He said my case was transferred to another lawyer, could/would not tell me why. Then he told me to take my review down, since it was untrue. When I told him that it was still indeed true, since I never received a letter stating they transferred the case, so in my eyes they are still the lawyers handling the case. (By the way, I called the so called new lawyer, and he has no clue what I am talking about. He said he will look into it and call me back. Again still waiting).I said so "instead of 5 and a half years, you had the case for 4 years with no resolution and that is still unacceptable. And for them not to let me know that they handed off the case to another firm, that was very unprofessional. He kept insisting I removed the review, and when I said I would not, he hung up on me.
So, if you want them to return your calls for any reason, please leave them a negative review and they will call you right away.
What a joke. They have been handling my dads estate for 5 and a half years, and I still dont know what is going on. They won't give you a straight answer, there is no correspondence. They are a terrible.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Christy shaffer
Mr. Martin Handelman and Mr. Steven Witkowitz were both professional and took excellent/outstanding care of my case. They always keep me current and informed on every step of the legal process. I felt safe and protected, I actually felt untouchable because of their expertise and skill. They are powerful lawyers and caring individuals. I am filled with gratitude and warmth for all they have done for me.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Christy shaffer
Mr. Martin Handelman and Mr. Steven Witkowitz were both professional and took excellent/outstanding care of my case. They always keep me current and informed on every step of the legal process. I felt safe and protected, I actually felt untouchable because of their expertise and skill. They are powerful lawyers and caring individuals. I am filled with gratitude and warmth for all they have done for me.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Kathleen koster
Professional and considerate
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08 Jul, 2024 by Min quaintance
INCOMPETENT LAWYER: STAY AWAY
I hired Steven Witkowicz for a civil lawsuit and he botched up my lawsuit big time due to his incompetence, He is very untrustworthy, don't tell him any of your personal business. He cannot be trusted. He don't like to return phone calls, I would leave several messages on his answering machine and he would not return my calls. He does not follow up with things he tells you he will do, he does not keep his word. I found out during my lawsuit that he was telling the people I was suiting information I was telling him about them, that I thought was confidential between him and I, He does not keep you informed about important things you need to know about your case to be successful. He botched my lawsuit up and I had to fire him and get another attorney and start from scratch. STAY AWAY, YOU WILL REGRET IT!!!
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Sal panella
08 Jul, 2024 by Keyona baggling
08 Jul, 2024 by Phill rodriguez
UPDATE- I received a call from the elder Handelman, He said he will look into my case and call me back. Still waiting for that call. Then the younger Handelman called me, apparently not knowing the other one called. He said my case was transferred to another lawyer, could/would not tell me why. Then he told me to take my review down, since it was untrue. When I told him that it was still indeed true, since I never received a letter stating they transferred the case, so in my eyes they are still the lawyers handling the case. (By the way, I called the so called new lawyer, and he has no clue what I am talking about. He said he will look into it and call me back. Again still waiting).I said so "instead of 5 and a half years, you had the case for 4 years with no resolution and that is still unacceptable. And for them not to let me know that they handed off the case to another firm, that was very unprofessional. He kept insisting I removed the review, and when I said I would not, he hung up on me.
So, if you want them to return your calls for any reason, please leave them a negative review and they will call you right away.
What a joke. They have been handling my dads estate for 5 and a half years, and I still dont know what is going on. They won't give you a straight answer, there is no correspondence. They are a terrible.
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27 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
This woman should not be able to practice. She ignores abuse going on in homes. She keeps kids from family's that deserve to see the children she's awful I don't know how she sleeps at night
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23 Apr, 2019 by Angel
This woman was court appointed and now I am having her removed for NUMEROUS reasons. Had primary residency taken from me under false pretenses. Also is ignoring major health issues concerning my child along with many more issues that if appointed again will be brought up in court and asked to be permanently removed for the sake of my child. Be careful who you have represent you or your child. Also do background checks on not just her but anyone you may feel is off. I've learned my lesson I just don't want it to happen to anyone else.
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05 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
love the way she handle my case (child custody) in a professional manner. the way she treat me it was like a friend instead of a client. excellent person and outstanding lawyer.
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02 Feb, 2024 by Jay
Not happy as of now but hopefully that changes..if it does, the review will change . Hopefully this goes better then it is soo far
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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.
