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08 Feb, 2025 by Adina shewfelt
Michael made this process smooth and simple for me. His staff were understanding and never judgemental. I highly recommend going with Michael and his team.
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08 Feb, 2025 by Tyler english
05 Feb, 2025 by Catherine stone
This was such an easy experience and the price was right! Great team very professional and I’m so happy to have this over with so quickly!
Thank you for everything…
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08 Feb, 2025 by Adina shewfelt
Michael made this process smooth and simple for me. His staff were understanding and never judgemental. I highly recommend going with Michael and his team.
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08 Feb, 2025 by Tyler english
05 Feb, 2025 by Catherine stone
This was such an easy experience and the price was right! Great team very professional and I’m so happy to have this over with so quickly!
Thank you for everything…
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24 Jan, 2025 by Kathy lollar
Debbie with Johnson & Taylor was a pleasure to work with on closing out my dad's estate. She was knowledgeable, professional, & prompt in her responses...while also being personable & friendly. She made a complicated process easy to navigate. Thx Debbie!
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09 Jan, 2025 by Ali n
I highly recommend hiring Rayhan Chaudhary as your lawyer. He’s represented me and did an excellent job. I admire his ethic work and composure. Also lawyer rayhan is very honest and specific.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Edward fernandez
I was fortunate enough to get a referral from OR lawyer association. James Sellers was my attorney. He was excellent from the "get go". Great listener and communicator. He was always ahead of things, and we checked in regularly. Over the course of 2 years, I was very confident in his ability. Things turned out well. I recommend him and the firm highly.
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19 Jun, 2020 by Matthew
Ronald Downs handled my car accident claim, that has gone on for nearly two years, and has handled everything exceptionally. He's walked me through all of the best possible ways and solutions to handle my case through and through, and has always been extremely professional with communication. Although as professional as he is, Ron can be very laid back, and is great at maintaining equal energy with his clients.
Ronald Downs is my first lawyer, and although the results of my case did not end well, he still stuck to his guns and did everything is his power to ensure that I got what I deserved, and because of that I was exceptionally satisfied with the outcome.
I highly recommend Ron for his commendable efforts and assurance that his clients will, guaranteed, get what they are owed. Though he may be my first lawyer, if I have another accident in the future (hopefully that will not happen), Ronald Downs will be the first lawyer I will call to represent me in my case.
Thank you for everything you've done for me, Ron, I appreciate it more than anything in the world.
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02 Dec, 2018 by Prescott
I hired Ron to represent me in a Personal Injury Claim involving a Motor Vehicle Accident. He was there for me through the entire process from filing the tort claim to arbitration. His advice to "focus on healing" before focusing on the lawsuit was invaluable as it encouraged me to seek the treatment I needed. When the injury did finally resolve he was able to recover all of my medical costs and fair amount for non-economic damages.
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18 Nov, 2018 by Sheri
Ron, did a great job of representing us on a business breakup. We also used him on a labor issue with an employee earlier in the year. I highly recommend Ron and we would use his services again if another situation came up
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12 Jan, 2025 by Brian salter
Jeffery and his team were very responsive, and I'm so impressed with the way he/they took care of me and my concerns. Definitely recommend him!
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12 Dec, 2024 by Collie mollie
Lance Youd was very professional. Was very pleased in how my case was handled. His staff was very nice too.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Honorable veteran
I called , unfortunately Mr. Youd isn’t taking family law clients, but his awesome staff did provide me with a few names they recommended for divorce, one of the nicest and helpful people during this search , great work front line staff !! I was treated with courtesy, respect.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Maria c
I've been in a couple accidents in the past. But have never experienced a good service. After doing Google search i found Gatti Law Firm. I hired Nicole Tudhope and her assistant Julie. Omg, these ladies are amazing. I highly recommend them. The whole process was professional, fast, and clear. Nicole every document that I signed she explained well. She always made sure I had a copy for my record. Nicole checked in at least ever month with me to see how treatment was going. Thank you so much Nicole and Julie for all your hard work.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Medhanie tecle
I worked with The Gatti Law Firm on a couple of cases and they provided me with magnificent & highly professional services for all. I'm 100% satisfied with their modesty, expertise & everything else they do!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Manuel saenz
Amabilidad inspira confianza basicamente exelente Gracias Daniel
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07 Nov, 2023 by Josh untersee
Zach Brunot was my attorney for my workers comp case, not only was Mr. Brunot professional but he always made sure I was in the loop of everything going on, and also made sure I was getting the best medical due to the injury I sustained, I would 100% recommend Mr. Brunot and his firm for any workers comp injuries
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01 Jun, 2023 by Sylvia w
03 Apr, 2023 by The reverend of outlaws
Not helpful of my case ....
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18 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
I couldn’t have been represented better then mr Thayer, excellent work representing me with a very long,complicated and painful case.
My respect for him as professional and as human , very family oriented, I will never thank him enough.
Thank you . So much, I will forever recommend you.
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04 May, 2017 by Sherry smead
Mr. Thayer was excellent at listening to mycase:-) he has instructed me to gather my medical records and I believe that he will take my case on its merits I appreciated you helping me to get in touch with him
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19 Oct, 2016 by Laura
Jeff Thayer was a top-notch professional as he guided our legal process. His experience was apparent from my very first meeting. He explained the process and law in detail and answered all of my questions with regard to my case. No deadlines were missed. Ultimately, he negotiated a settlement to the case which was the best possible outcome.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Maria c
I've been in a couple accidents in the past. But have never experienced a good service. After doing Google search i found Gatti Law Firm. I hired Nicole Tudhope and her assistant Julie. Omg, these ladies are amazing. I highly recommend them. The whole process was professional, fast, and clear. Nicole every document that I signed she explained well. She always made sure I had a copy for my record. Nicole checked in at least ever month with me to see how treatment was going. Thank you so much Nicole and Julie for all your hard work.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Medhanie tecle
I worked with The Gatti Law Firm on a couple of cases and they provided me with magnificent & highly professional services for all. I'm 100% satisfied with their modesty, expertise & everything else they do!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Manuel saenz
Amabilidad inspira confianza basicamente exelente Gracias Daniel
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12 Oct, 2023 by Angela harper
Can't thank them enough for their empathetic and professional services. Absolutely recommend.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Alyanna wood
10/10, Jamie is my forever go-to.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Phil chadsey
The reviewing capabilities of Google seem limited; I wish I could give a sixth star for how painless the entire process was!
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12 Oct, 2023 by Angela harper
Can't thank them enough for their empathetic and professional services. Absolutely recommend.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Alyanna wood
10/10, Jamie is my forever go-to.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Phil chadsey
The reviewing capabilities of Google seem limited; I wish I could give a sixth star for how painless the entire process was!
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21 Feb, 2025 by Anonymous
If you're looking for an exceptional criminal defense attorney, look no further than John Knodell. From the very first consultation, I was impressed by his professionalism, expertise, and genuine concern for my case. He took the time to thoroughly explain the legal process, throughout the entire process, John was highly responsive, always available to answer questions and provide updates.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Lake
John Knodel and his team are absolutely incredible! From start to finish, they worked tirelessly on my case, leaving no stone unturned. John is not only highly knowledgeable and professional, but he genuinely cares about his clients and fights hard to get the best possible outcome. His dedication, expertise, and attention to detail made all the difference.
If you need a great lawyer who will truly fight for you, I highly recommend John Knodel. He and his team go above and beyond, and I couldn’t be more grateful for their hard work. Thank you, John!
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31 Jan, 2025 by Pedro jimenez
Muy amable conprensivo y muy buen trato de parte de toda su oficina estoy muy agradecido con el y todo su equipo
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18 Sep, 2020 by Rebecca
I just want to say that Lance and his staff helped me through a very difficult situation where I was facing serious felony charges. He was able to handle my case with presenting the facts, which led to a dismissal of all charges. I am forever grateful to him and his firm for giving me my life back. I would highly recommend him to anyone who is facing a difficult situation.
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14 Jun, 2020 by Jo
I had an unusual and challenging case. Lance was referred by a friend and I was impressed by his insightful intelligence. He approached my case with respect, patience and compassion, welcoming my input, taking my concerns seriously and acting accordingly. I heard Attorney Youd argue effectively on my behalf; and while the final judgment was not exactly what I had initially sought, it was still better than I could have reasonably expected from our judicial system, which Lance expertly navigated with confidence. I highly recommend his services.
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13 Apr, 2017 by Brandalyn
Lance is a tenacious listener. He pays direct attention to my concerns and offers honest and direct guidance where and when needed. With his many years of experience, his knowledge and expertise is exceptional.
Through my time with Lance and his team, I've found them to be my most trustable and genuine source for life's most challenging experiences. The Lance Youd law firm was just what I needed and will be my sole source for future legal advice.
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03 Apr, 2020 by Christopher
Mr Cook was able to assist me legally with a situation where I was more or less, backed up against a wall, and thankfully resolved in a matter of days. It's nice to have immediate responses and that's exactly what I received.
He was professional, straight forward and able to explain things to me in a way I understood. Very polite too! Definitely one to keep in the contacts list in case I need legal representation in the future.
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21 Nov, 2019 by Kevin
I can't say enough about Grant Cook, representing me in two different cases. In two separate courts. One case against a landlord. The other a family court matter. I found him to be thorough and an excellent communicator. Kept me in the loop with information as he received it. He spoke in a way that gave me a clearer understanding of the laws as they pertained to my cases. I know it can be frustrating for some who hire other representation and feel out of the loop or spoken down to. Not so with Grant. He does an excellent job of focusing on what is most important in a case and kept me at ease. I was very pleased with the outcomes of my cases. Very sharp, trustworthy, and caring. I can't imagine being represented by anyone else.
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08 Apr, 2019 by Alex
Mr. Cook was exactly what I needed. He was professional, knowledgeable, and well prepared for what turned out to be a drawn out situation. I knew I was getting great representation and it gave me peace of mind.
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20 Jul, 2015 by Ken
No one likes to go see an attorney but Mr. Swanson and his staff were great. My questions were always answered and my calls always returned. I felt very fortunate to have had him as my attorney.
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03 Apr, 2015 by Coryb@peak. org
Mr. Swanson and his staff were great to work with very good at keeping me informed. And I believe they really care about their customers.
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06 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Great attorney, great staff, great result. I hope I never have to go back but if I have any personal injury or wrongful death case, I will definitely go back to him.
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20 Nov, 2023 by Crystel
David Smith was so wonderful to work with. I was involved in a car accident (not my fault) and my insurance was not willing to give me the settlement I believed that I deserved. Mr. Smith not only answered all of my questions, but he took the time to lay out all of my options, and explained them all in a way that my non-legal-brain could understand. He was patient, kind, and worked really hard to get me the settlement that I deserved. At every step of the process, I felt that Mr. Smith was working with my best interest at heart, and his candor and solid work ethics made the entire process much smoother. I wish I had hired him sooner! I would recommend David Smith over and over again.
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26 Jul, 2023 by Cameron
I couldn’t be happier with how professional and attentive David Smith was while dealing with my case. He was always available to answer any questions I had and always kept me in the loop. He did an excellent job of making sure I understood every step of the process and swiftly got the result I was needing. I would highly recommend David.
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26 Sep, 2017 by Abbey
Adam Reed is the best of the best. He's honest, fair, wise, a great communicator and truly wants what's best for the people he's representing. We are thankful for all he has done for our family and will continue to use him and his legal counsel whenever the need may arise.
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20 Dec, 2016 by Kristina
Adam Reeds was a blessing to my family! My husband hurt his back on the job and it changed our lives...SAIF Corporation tried to limit any kind of help and compensation for my husband, even though he has worked hard doing underground construction most of his life paying into workmans compensation...Adam treated us like family and he was able to get the maximum amount of compensation out of SAIF! Not only did he help my husband get compensation, he has continued to help him with authorizations for medications, surgeries and so fourth! Adam is an amazing attorney as well as excellent human being!
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07 Mar, 2013 by Craig
Attorney Travis Dickey. From our first phone conversation and throughout the yearlong court battle, Travis listened to what I had to say, addressed my concerns, and provided clear and accurate information. Travis quickly earned my trust and respect by providing me with straight, direct answers and counsel. At no time did he attempt to “dance” around the difficult answers. I knew where I stood with him, and with the courts, at all times.
Prior to our first court appearance, Travis explored what options I had and made sure I understood the pros and cons of each option. He worked to mitigate the circumstances surrounding my arrest, achieving a promising outcome. When the prosecuting attorneys rescinded their first offer, Travis continued to fight in my behalf. Initially Travis had no experience with the mental trauma and injuries I had sustained during my active duty military service. Acting on his own initiative, he took the time to learn more about the difficulties faced by disabled veterans and participated in the initial forming of a Veterans Court being established in Marion County.
As my court proceedings approached the year mark and became a tangled web of bureaucratic red tape, Travis continued to provide me with support even though I had developed a less than favorable opinion, which I shared often and loudly, of the Salem City judicial system. Travis remained at the front of my case alert to any favorable change or circumstance he could use to my advantage. His tenacity paid off. Travis brought back the original offer from the city prosecutors’ office and convinced the judge to except a newly available program providing a solution more applicable to my circumstances.
I would strongly recommend Travis Dickey for anybody looking for an attorney who is honest, straight forward, and dedicated to working with an eye focused solely on the best outcome for the situation at hand.
Specifically, I would direct any veteran finding themselves at odds with the criminal justice system to trust Travis to ensure they receive the best legal counsel available.
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24 Jan, 2019 by Mikhail
James is the best lawyer out there. I had a difficult situation with my case where I had to switch lawyers, but he made everything so easy for me. He fully worked around my schedule to help resolve my case. I wish I began my case with him in the first place because he would have probably resolved it a long time ago! James is very professional and you can see that he loves what he does. I would recommend him to everyone!
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13 Nov, 2024 by Stephanie covarrubias
These guys are great if you’ve been in a car accident. They helped me when I was rear-ended and needed medical treatment for my neck. The team at Hughes Mathews Legal Group Midland handled everything with the insurance company and made sure I was compensated. They were very professional and always returned my calls. I’m grateful for their help.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Latavia baker
I had an excellent experience with Mathew’s Legal Group and their team. From the start, their communication was clear and timely. They made sure to keep me updated on every step of my case, answering all of my questions in a way that was easy to understand. The professionalism they showed was top-notch—they treated me with respect and genuinely cared about my well-being during a difficult time.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Jacqueline cortez
Awesome work done! I needed an attorney after a recent car accident and realized getting settlement checks from an insurance company isn't necessarily an easy process. I'm glad I called Hughes Mathews and that they were able to help me out
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24 Jan, 2025 by Kathy lollar
Debbie with Johnson & Taylor was a pleasure to work with on closing out my dad's estate. She was knowledgeable, professional, & prompt in her responses...while also being personable & friendly. She made a complicated process easy to navigate. Thx Debbie!
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09 Jan, 2025 by Ali n
I highly recommend hiring Rayhan Chaudhary as your lawyer. He’s represented me and did an excellent job. I admire his ethic work and composure. Also lawyer rayhan is very honest and specific.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Edward fernandez
I was fortunate enough to get a referral from OR lawyer association. James Sellers was my attorney. He was excellent from the "get go". Great listener and communicator. He was always ahead of things, and we checked in regularly. Over the course of 2 years, I was very confident in his ability. Things turned out well. I recommend him and the firm highly.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Paul jertson
Matthew Lind worked on two of my cases and has been very helpful in receiving positive results on both. Many thanks.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Jean rauch
Everyone at OlsenDaines have been so helpful and caring about this process. It feels so good to have confident people on my side. Thank you so much
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25 Sep, 2024 by Sherry lairson
Everyone I worked with was very nice informative. Everything was done in a timely manner. . .
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24 Jan, 2025 by Maria c
I've been in a couple accidents in the past. But have never experienced a good service. After doing Google search i found Gatti Law Firm. I hired Nicole Tudhope and her assistant Julie. Omg, these ladies are amazing. I highly recommend them. The whole process was professional, fast, and clear. Nicole every document that I signed she explained well. She always made sure I had a copy for my record. Nicole checked in at least ever month with me to see how treatment was going. Thank you so much Nicole and Julie for all your hard work.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Medhanie tecle
I worked with The Gatti Law Firm on a couple of cases and they provided me with magnificent & highly professional services for all. I'm 100% satisfied with their modesty, expertise & everything else they do!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Manuel saenz
Amabilidad inspira confianza basicamente exelente Gracias Daniel
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01 Nov, 2024 by Lori landolt
Rick walked me through all steps of the process and I am thankful he was in my corner. We had a wonderful outcome. Thank you Rick!
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28 Jun, 2024 by Steven devault
Rick get pushing to get the best settlement he could for me.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Michael niehaus
Was hurt unsure about the broken face and bike. Gabby assistance was invaluable to compassionate legal side of a split second life altering event . Get medical help .Then ask Rick Glantz and the team to work out an agreement for you.
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28 Nov, 2014 by Lance
After using Mr. Yunker's services in a hotly debated action with an Oregon Board of licensing, I would give him a definite five star rating. His conduct was exemplary and he is absolutely fantastic in his 'courtroom" conduct of a case. You cannot go wrong by using Mr. Conrad Yunker if you need good legal representation.
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04 Aug, 2024 by Debbie
If I could've given him no stars I would have. Ryan was hired by my niece for a custody battle she was going thru. After stating the case was "a slam dunk case" she ended up losing ALL custody, was ordered to pay child support and secure life insurance. The judgement has ripped my family apart and now we have to pay even MORE money to another attorney to appeal to even attempt to somehow get this reversed.
Horrible, gutless, UNPREPARED and more concerned about getting back to his wife's fundraiser than concentrating on our case. He should've told us to bring the child with us and put a bow on her before we turned her over to the other side. That's how bad of a job he did. GO SOMEWHERE ELSE, do not hire this incompetent man.
I am going to blast this wherever I can.
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29 Dec, 2022 by Lafe
He never once supported my positions, and encouraged me to take all of her offers. I went into court to solve some coparenting issues and ended up losing my joint custody. Steer clear, at least if you are a father.
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05 Nov, 2022 by Robert
Ryan Hunt and his excellent staff of attorneys patiently and expertly guided my wife and myself through the complicated process of creating a revocable living trust involving creative works as well as investments and property, the transfer of assets into the trust, etc. We are grateful for Ryan's expertise, and we highly recommend him and his associates.
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27 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
I have used Joe a number of times over the past 10 years, and have always found him honest, knowledgeable and very fairly priced. He has helped me with some simple things like contracts, but most recently in a very important battle with an insurance company. This is not Joe's specialty, but he provided my legal support for the first parts of my battle, then when things moved out of his level of expertise, he recommended that I hire someone else, that specializes in that area of law. I wound up hiring the best in the state, and they were both impressed and appreciative of the work Joe had done, and felt that he had helped set us up for success. I respect a person who is honest about their limitations and doesn't waste my money to pad their income. I, and friends of mine, have used Joe in his areas of expertise, and he is exceptional.
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05 Aug, 2021 by Patricia
Mr Smith was honest, respectful and concise when he was representing me for my personal injury case, I'm very happy with the outcome of my settlement and his dedication to see my case through. I highly recommend Mr Smith for any issues you may have in civil litigation, personal injury, family law, or landlord tenant disputes.
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26 Sep, 2020 by James
He took money to prosecute the civil suit . He used some of the money to file suit and made sure they were NOT served in time.
He didn't file until the last 3 days so that we couldn't drop the case and refile. He found out that we couldn't use ORLTA to prove the ownership of the structure that was illegal and responsible for the injury. This was in a mobile home park and the structures have to be in the written rental agreement. I didn't have a written rental agreement and that is on the owner's of the park but you have to use the Landlord & Tenant Act within one year to prove it. One year had went by and Joseph found out too late but decided to do his client wrong instead of telling me the truth.
He knew l would learn in court what went wrong so it was easier to do me wrong. I didn't get the bad news for about 110 days. Joseph is shameful !
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03 Oct, 2023 by Ryan
I hired Virgil, thinking that his slightly lower price was a bargain. My sons are only nine months old and two years old, so I thought that he would appreciate the importance of protecting them. Not only did he rarely respond to my calls and emails, he rarely took any real action on my case. I wrote him emails, begging for his help in getting my sons the help they needed, and often times his only response was to charge me 50 or 100 dollars to read the email. Granted, he *sometimes* sent a response. But he never followed up with any real action.
I suspect that some of the five-star ratings on here are fraudulent. Virgil got poor results. He had almost no sense of urgency. He seemed to care very little about my young sons and I.
Do not hire this attorney if you take your case seriously.
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31 Jan, 2017 by Michael
I was hit by a car who failed to see me on the road. I was injured and needed treatment. I retained Virgil Royer and they got me help with my car and also with my medical treatment. I received a very fair settlement with the at-fault driver's insurance company. I would highly recommend Virgil Royer to anyone who was in a car accident caused by someone else.
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06 Dec, 2016 by Shyloh
I hired Mr. Royer for a family law matter, while my case was fairly straightforward, I am very impressed with how quickly the entire process went. I got the results I was hoping for and then some; in 12 years (my Son's entire life), I've never received a penny of support from his Father and now we are actually getting regular support! I never thought I'd see the day.
Mr. Royer is also very professional, which I appreciate very much. (I've worked with Attorney's who are far from it and trust me, that makes a difference to the Courts, especially the judge) I highly recommend Mr. Royer and his team if you need something handled right the first time.
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03 Jan, 2024 by John brewer. taking to the cleaners
He charged me 6000 grand for to 5 min meetings and one cout appearance for 2 min I new in my heart I was innocent and everything I went to his office he would try to pull the scare tactics on me like you could be going away for years o man your in big trouble the guy is a burn out. Hire Denny the younger guy if u must go to this dump adlese MADISON has class not the old fart that is washed up thinking he's something and he's not
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17 Apr, 2023 by Michael
I would hire him again; I didn't feel like I was being sold. He was very knowledgeable and walked me through all the possible outcomes of my case and built a sound legal strategy. He is a very professional, upfront, and hard-working attorney. Couldn't recommend enough.
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05 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
From what I have seen with Jeff he is exactly the guy you want if your in trouble. He is willing to do the dirty work himself. Digging to get information to help . Most attorney will process you through the system. This guy will fight like its him on trial.
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04 Nov, 2021 by Tori
Made an appointment weeks in advance with Mr. Lay to discuss my issue. Appointment was for 3pm - still have handwritten note saying 3p with other instructions I was given. Called prior to my appointment about emailing him info before our phone appointment, and the receptionist stated my appointment was at 11 am. Wrong! Not a good way to treat a potential client. Given the quality of the receptionist if you DO make an appointment, repeat it back to their receptionist several times so you know you are on the same page. Or you will be stuck like I am starting all over again for an appointment weeks out.
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16 Sep, 2019 by Melissa
Josh worked quickly, clearly, and effectively to reduce not only the length of time spent on litigation of a dispute but also reducing the overall cost. He spoke honestly and openly with me about the case I had sought his counsel on, and I appreciated his honest approach to the potential options and resources. I would highly recommend his service.
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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.
