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08 Jul, 2024 by Jessica barba
I would highly recommend Kuvara Law Firm to anyone who has been in an accident. Colby Kuvara was an excellent attorney who went above and beyond in guiding me through the legal process and really advocating for me in a time that was extremely stressful. Her team was very responsive and thorough through the duration of the case. They really are a best in class firm who will fight for you.
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20 May, 2024 by Mike porath
Our adult son was hit by a car while on vacation in San Rafael CA. We recieved the call the night before Thanksgiving 2022. We flew from MPLS to San Fransisco and got to the hospital where our son was. He was injured badly, after emergency brain surgery he was placed in a medically induced coma he woke up after three day's. We decided as a family to contact an attorney. We contacted Kuvara Law firm and talked with Colby. Colby assured us that the only interest she had was the well being of our son. She went above and beyond to navigate out of state insurance and an entire host of other issues. Colby was professional, caring and listened carefully to what our son's desired outcomes were. Our entire family would recomend Kuvara Law firm to anyone looking for representation.
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15 May, 2024 by Jacqui arnot
Neal and Colby Kuvara handled everything and made it so easy for me after I was bitten by a dog. Highly recommend!
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5.0
5 Reviews
4.6
25 Reviews
26 Jul, 2024 by Andre h
I was shocked to speak with a lawyer who doesn't listen when others speak. He treated me as less than human, this is a disrespectful person who thinks his intellect makes him better than the rest of us. Well sir, I am of the 98th percentile intellectually. I'm sure you have enough money to not have empathy.
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31 May, 2024 by Kathy white
Just recently wrote a very negative review and for this I apologize He did his job! But all attorneys out there think about what u r writing and what the state of the person is who opens this email Does this take her or him over the edge For me..I just didn’t want to live as it was the last horrific ! Mark on a horrible situation and as also a friend where is compassion and possible mediation..how can we work this out. I was never ever given option Just lost my house, my daughter and forced to move away from all I know So please remember you are a human first and let that make u a better lawyer Yes you did your job well You scared me
So for your success you get your stars
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23 Nov, 2023 by Stephanie haines
28 Mar, 2016 by Alba
If you had a rating of 100 I give Mr. Brady over that! I hired Mr. Brady for an injury case that sat in another attorney's office for over three years. I was BLESSED to had been referred to Mr. Brady, he is Brilliant, Professional, and Amazing person. Mr. Brady took my case to trial, he introduced my case in a way that even law students crowed the court room to watch him present my case, in which trial lasted a week an a half. His office staff is of the upmost professionals. I can't say enough about how Brilliant Mr. Brady is in his profession. He won my case and I'm totally satisfied with the outcome, verdict. I recommend Mr. Brady and Staff to the moon and back (no joke), The Best Attorney Ever!
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15 Oct, 2024 by Gabriel
She was so on point and top of everything she’s the best no doubt thank you Nadia for everything you did I owe you my life
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14 Oct, 2024 by Steven cook
Mrs. Iqbal not only secured my release from San Quentin state prison as a life term inmate, but her dedication to her craft allowed for her to argue in front of the same judge who sentenced me to life in prison, and her arguing set me free. She is by far the lawyer I’d want in the trenches with me.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Mrs. Iqbal not only secured my release from San Quentin state prison as a life term inmate, but her dedication to her craft allowed for her to argue in front of the same judge who sentenced me to life in prison, and her arguing set me free. She is by far the lawyer I’d want in the trenches with me .
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06 Apr, 2024 by Kelley
Ms. Parmeter represented me in a personal injury case. She's so caring, and she made me feel so calm even I was in a very stressful situaion. I was so lucky to find her. She's the most trust worthy lawyer among more than dozen of lawyers I have encountered in my life.
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25 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Parmenter has represented my family in both business and personal matters for many years. She is everything you need when it comes to important matters. Ms. Parmenter is very professional, efficient, responsive and always gets the best possible results.
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11 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Parmenter was very knowledgeable, reliable, and honest with me. Considering the facts of my situation, I needed the very best attorney on my side. Ms. Parmenter fought diligently to recover the maximum value for my case, this was even when it looked like the odds were against me. I could count on her to stick through the doubtful times in the case and persist in representing me. (I had a very bad expereince with another attorney that just dropped me as his client when things got tough and he did not want to be bothered by my case anymore.) Ms. Parmenter was wonderful to work with and my case ended very successfully for me and for more than I ever expected. Ms. Parmetner always prepared the case for the trial but we were able to resolve before. In summary, Ms. Parmenter is very reputable, hardworking and a very good human being!
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27 Dec, 2024 by Alida0ppp9887y54r222ww1 vasquez
20 Dec, 2024 by Sharon arredondo
Trabajan con mucho profesionalismo, acompañan en todo el proceso y siempre están ahí para aclarar cualquier duda todo el equipo tienen bastante experiencia los recomiendo al 100%
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14 Dec, 2024 by Liza montano
Extremadamente satisfecha con la profesionalidad, la dedicación y la atención. Es díficil encontrar abogados de inmigración honestos y con sensibilidad. Roberta es una abogada en la que uno puede confiar en todo sentido. Recomiendo y agradezco a la abogada Roberta y a su equipo por todo.
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05 Dec, 2023 by Ann
I was hit by an out-of-control pick up truck one evening while I was walking home from dinner. Tom Keating came highly recommended by another highly respected attorney, and he proved invaluable in helping me wade through many months of legal and insurance proceedings, made longer and more convoluted by covid. Tom was kind, patient, and incredibly knowledgable about every aspect of the process, from knee injuries to the labyrinthine legal system. Because of him, I received the highest possible settlement. While no amount of money is worth all that time out of my life and the loss of a perfectly functioning knee, the significant settlement Tom negotiated on my behalf certainly helped ease the pain.
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29 Jun, 2022 by Tina
I feel very lucky to have worked with Tom. He brought a thoughtful, empathetic, and intelligent approach to my case and explained every step of the process which was incredibly helpful. He worked collaboratively with me and was always open to answering my questions and hearing my feedback which I greatly appreciated. I would strongly recommend working with him if you have the chance.
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01 Jun, 2022 by Lori
I was hurt in two accidents where I broke the same leg. I initially met with another lawyer that ;has been recommended by a friend. He was a nice guy, but not Tom Keating. Mr. Keating did everything for me, whether it was getting a second opinion or meeting with me for hours at anytime. Such a nice man, with so much integrity. He spent hours with me preparing me and educating me on what the next steps were. I knew that I could pick up the phone and be responded to immediately. This nightmare went on for 6 years, and that was tough on me, Tom and my family. We got through it and I am grateful.
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14 Jun, 2017 by Marie
David Fiol represented me for a personal injury claim and I was very happy with the service I received. I was very seriously injured and had a long recovery period with several surgeries. It was a very difficult time for me, but after starting with David I soon felt confident that I was in good hands and could stop worrying about my injury claim and could focus on my rehabilitation. David did a very thorough investigation and even managed to located witnesses in the area where the injury had occurred. My case was difficult and took some time to settle. I was kept well informed about the progress of the case and each step of the process was fully explained to me. I found David to be a very pleasant and considerate person to work with. I was satisfied with the settlement I received and glad that I was able to avoid the stress of going through a jury trial. I would definitely recommend him.
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07 Jun, 2017 by Jennifer
David represented me after a terrible accident that killed my dog. I was given his contact by a good friend and am so lucky that I was connected with him. He is one of the most compassionate, tenacious, and knowlegeable lawyers I have met. He was very clear in his recommendations, course of action and through his detailed and tireless actions, even got me a very fair settlement. I would recommend him without hesitation.
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05 Jun, 2017 by Juliana
I hired David to represent me in a personal injury case after I was in a bad car accident. I am an attorney myself, though in a different practice area, and found David to be professional, compassionate, and knowledgeable. My injuries were fairly difficult to value, and he discussed this thoroughly with me and made sure I understood both the risks and potential benefits of various options. I definitely felt like David did an excellent job balancing my needs and the practicalities of the case and giving me the information I needed to make decisions. I was very pleased with the outcome of the case, and found the legal process quite painless thanks to his excellent representation.
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08 Oct, 2018 by Rodge
Michael was extremely helpful, and very knowledgeable. I retained Michael to assist me in a real estate issue which he resolved quickly and effectively. It is rare to find an attorney who is so honest and competent. Michael, is no doubt the first.
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20 Jan, 2018 by Robin soles
I found Michael Lamphere to be extremely knowledgeable and very helpful. He is compassionate, a good listener, and easy on the eyes!
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03 Oct, 2015 by Andrew
Michael's negotiating skills are tremendous. I hired him to represent me on my loss of consortium claim. At the pre-trial mediation session, Mike displayed an excellent knowledge of the case and had a solid command of his legal arguments. He has a great smile and a really effective personal style that built a rapport with the mediator and opposing counsel (representing a large corporation) -- which resulted in a very favorable settlement. Mike didn't rush to a quick result. I was impressed that he was willing to spend the time (many hours) that it took to reach a just and appropriate settlement. He's thoughtful, personable, clear and very effective. I would hire him again without a doubt.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jessica barba
I would highly recommend Kuvara Law Firm to anyone who has been in an accident. Colby Kuvara was an excellent attorney who went above and beyond in guiding me through the legal process and really advocating for me in a time that was extremely stressful. Her team was very responsive and thorough through the duration of the case. They really are a best in class firm who will fight for you.
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20 May, 2024 by Mike porath
Our adult son was hit by a car while on vacation in San Rafael CA. We recieved the call the night before Thanksgiving 2022. We flew from MPLS to San Fransisco and got to the hospital where our son was. He was injured badly, after emergency brain surgery he was placed in a medically induced coma he woke up after three day's. We decided as a family to contact an attorney. We contacted Kuvara Law firm and talked with Colby. Colby assured us that the only interest she had was the well being of our son. She went above and beyond to navigate out of state insurance and an entire host of other issues. Colby was professional, caring and listened carefully to what our son's desired outcomes were. Our entire family would recomend Kuvara Law firm to anyone looking for representation.
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15 May, 2024 by Jacqui arnot
Neal and Colby Kuvara handled everything and made it so easy for me after I was bitten by a dog. Highly recommend!
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03 Nov, 2024 by Rick mozer
I never felt abandoned with Kevin. He was always responsive. When you are under the gun it's nice to have someone, you can trust in your corner. Kevin is that guy. Finding Kevin was a god send.
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03 Nov, 2024 by Toby k
I absolutely can recommend Kevin. He's on the ball and efficient but every time I was needing his time he made space for me. Even if I just needed reassurance about the process we were going through. Kevin you made a potentially stressful situation.... well as minimally stressful as I think it could be :D
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30 Aug, 2024 by Marco silva
I don’t even have words to describe the work Kevin has done for me . It’s been a long battle and at some point i wanted to give up but Kevin kept me going assuring me we would get the best possible result at the end and we did . I’m so grateful for all talks , advices and guidance thru ought our journey. If you need someone that cares and is great at their job please don’t hesitate to contact Kevin !!!!!
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13 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
We hired Ms. Jenkins-Toney for highly complex related cases from family, civil and criminal law. She has out-performed any other lawyer, by far.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Elianna jessica boudai
I was about to sign a commercial lease for my startup, but I felt uneasy about some of the terms. I reached out to Synergist Law, and Sami quickly got on the phone with me and walked me through each of the clauses and explained to me which ones he thought could be problematic and where he thought I could push back. He renegotiated the terms and secured a lease that worked in my favor. If you’re dealing with a commercial lease, you need Sami on your side!
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26 Oct, 2024 by Nahal kohan
I needed help understanding and negotiating a complex deal I was asked to sign, and Sami at Synergist Law caught unfair terms that would have cost me big. He negotiated a much better agreement and made sure I understood every step. If you need a sharp eye on your contracts, Sami is the one to trust!
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09 Oct, 2024 by Marcus
Thank you for the help Sammy! Great advise
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01 Mar, 2024 by Alexa maldonado-v
16 Oct, 2020 by James lewis
Mr. Diamond has three times served as a mediator on my cases, and I've been beyond satisfied with his efforts, diligence, and skill. I will use him again!
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21 Jul, 2020 by Maria bohm
Great lawyer. !!!!!! Highly reommend professional and caring. 😃
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16 May, 2016 by Jim shroyer
Eric Sternberger is a terrific lawyer. My wife Toni and I highly recommend him!
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19 Aug, 2023 by Marilyn kallins
23 Oct, 2017 by Chris stevens
Mr. Katzenbach is one of the most intelligent attorneys I know. He is well versed on many types of law including corporations codes which has helped my friends and I with bylaw violations and corporate code violations by our union.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Neal newstat
18 Sep, 2024 by Roy ritchie
They where very knowledgeable professional and the staff was quick response and on it 5starr’s all the way!
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17 Sep, 2024 by Estefania bravo
The team at Delfino Green & Green is fantastic to work with. They are top-notch attorneys and genuinely nice people. Their professionalism and care make a real difference. Highly recommended!
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23 Sep, 2024 by Neal newstat
18 Sep, 2024 by Roy ritchie
They where very knowledgeable professional and the staff was quick response and on it 5starr’s all the way!
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17 Sep, 2024 by Estefania bravo
The team at Delfino Green & Green is fantastic to work with. They are top-notch attorneys and genuinely nice people. Their professionalism and care make a real difference. Highly recommended!
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23 Sep, 2024 by Neal newstat
18 Sep, 2024 by Roy ritchie
They where very knowledgeable professional and the staff was quick response and on it 5starr’s all the way!
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17 Sep, 2024 by Estefania bravo
The team at Delfino Green & Green is fantastic to work with. They are top-notch attorneys and genuinely nice people. Their professionalism and care make a real difference. Highly recommended!
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15 Mar, 2022 by Rosie and ruby’s mom - contra costa
Second time around - first attempt wasn’t clear enough on my end to proceed.
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10 May, 2021 by Michael
I was wrongfully sued by a former contractor who had helped build my house. Richard was indispensable in helping me WIN that case. Instead of BSing around in arbitration, my case was transferred to superior court, where the judge found for me, WITH PREJUDICE. How often does THAT happen??? I intend to use Richard again, soon, to help me get all my assets into a revocable living trust, because I want a very specific line of beneficiaries prioritized in a bit of a non-traditional way, and I know Richard can provide more than the boiler-plate forms so I can rest easy that my estate will be properly distributed.
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21 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Worst lawyer I have ever dealt with, overcharged for minimal work.
I even had to locate the applicable case law for him. Of some of the work product produced I ended up throwing a majority out as it was completely unusable before i fired him I found an another lawyer for literally a fraction of the price
While working with him he refused to bring my demands to the opposing side claiming they were "unreasonable", Oddly enough when the case was settled they approached me offering, If not exceeding, what he refused to present. Could've save thousands of dollars has Richard Paris presented my demands when requested
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jessica barba
I would highly recommend Kuvara Law Firm to anyone who has been in an accident. Colby Kuvara was an excellent attorney who went above and beyond in guiding me through the legal process and really advocating for me in a time that was extremely stressful. Her team was very responsive and thorough through the duration of the case. They really are a best in class firm who will fight for you.
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Mike porath
Our adult son was hit by a car while on vacation in San Rafael CA. We recieved the call the night before Thanksgiving 2022. We flew from MPLS to San Fransisco and got to the hospital where our son was. He was injured badly, after emergency brain surgery he was placed in a medically induced coma he woke up after three day's. We decided as a family to contact an attorney. We contacted Kuvara Law firm and talked with Colby. Colby assured us that the only interest she had was the well being of our son. She went above and beyond to navigate out of state insurance and an entire host of other issues. Colby was professional, caring and listened carefully to what our son's desired outcomes were. Our entire family would recomend Kuvara Law firm to anyone looking for representation.
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15 May, 2024 by Jacqui arnot
Neal and Colby Kuvara handled everything and made it so easy for me after I was bitten by a dog. Highly recommend!
Read more
01 Mar, 2024 by Alexa maldonado-v
16 Oct, 2020 by James lewis
Mr. Diamond has three times served as a mediator on my cases, and I've been beyond satisfied with his efforts, diligence, and skill. I will use him again!
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21 Jul, 2020 by Maria bohm
Great lawyer. !!!!!! Highly reommend professional and caring. 😃
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30 Jan, 2022 by Larry stevens
03 Jun, 2024 by Raymond martinez
28 May, 2024 by Kaylee harrington
20 May, 2024 by Danial james
27 Sep, 2024 by Chris gibson
I have had many direct dealings with this lawyer in an estate matter in 2024 and found her to be deliberately dishonest to the court.
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04 Jul, 2024 by Cyndihaltom02
My Lawyer has made great strides to correct communication problems and we are moving forward in a positive manner. Thank you for all the help you and your staff have given.
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28 Apr, 2024 by Geoff
Very knowledgeable. A pleasure to work with.
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12 Jan, 2025 by Hedieh elyasi
We worked with Amir to set up our trust, and the experience was excellent. He is highly organized, punctual, and made the process easy to understand. Amir’s professionalism and approachable demeanor stood out, and we highly recommend his services for trust.
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11 Jan, 2025 by West barnwell
Amir helped my wife and set up a living trust. He was thorough, responsive, easy to work with, and an incredibly friendly guy. Highly recommend.
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11 Jan, 2025 by Linden barnwell
Great experience!! Amir is a wonderful and thoughtful lawyer!
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11 Apr, 2024 by Traci mccarty
Sharon Mah is the worst lawyer in CA. Only panders to Judge Adams and other local
attorneys to curry favor. Run don’t walk from this law office. I was completely destroyed financially. Her great work enabled my deadbeat spouse to take our childrens’ college funds. The worst. Go to Bley and Bley in SF. You will get what you pay for.
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31 Jul, 2023 by Pamela vita
Sometimes you just need Mah!
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18 Jul, 2022 by Eric k. blatt
From a California Attorney:
Sharon Mah continually opens and closes offices to erase reviews of her performance as a divorce attorney and officer of the court. She has an extensive history of representing spousal abusers, sidestepping bright ethical and moral lines to extend the reach and power of abusive spouses and abusive parents.
She will set aside her professional obligations to damage or destroy your spouse's career. She must counsel on criminal law as her instructions to clients pose legal jeopardy.
As one erased reviewer, a client of Attorney Mah explained, she is the perfect tool to destroy the lives around you, the psychological and emotional health of your children and should be hired if these are your goals.
A lawyer who counsels' clients to take children to psychiatrists without obtaining required legal consent to try to get negative information to be used to deny custody? Uhuh. A lawyer who instructs and advises clients to steal highly valuable documents from secure locations, conspiring to hide them, personally taking possession and refusing to return them? Indeed. Making misrepresentions to the court like drinking water? Yup. Creating false representations about the role she takes, creating the false and fraudulent impression to the court and community that a client is representing himself since the lawyer's reputation for improper, illegal, unethical and fraudulent acts could damage a client's case? Terrible.
As another erased reviewer recommended, call her immediately and do not hire her --- this way, your spouse cannot hire her either. This is her own advice to her clients in order to manipulate the selection of mediators, child services personnel and court judges to assure that only the most biased and toxic actors are inserted into your family's life. If your spouse has hired Sharon Mah, you need to use available resources to challenge her ability to serve in any capacity in your case. Do it. There are many fine, ethical attorneys to choose from. If you feel an urge to find a soldier to destroy your spouse, stop and find yourself help.
She's old school, very old school and may just have missed the common understanding that abuse of a spouse includes abuse through litigatio. And to this particular point you should consider Ms. Mah a master enabler and even straight-up abuser of counterparties and other lawyers using her law license as a cudgel. It's quite disturbing to see her use professional standing and tenure to create human destruction against innocent adults and children alike.
Thankfully, the justice system is evolving and recognizing abuse and abusers operating within family law system. The future looks better, with specific criminal statutes addressing the above behavior and criminalizing the type of deplorable actions which Ms. Mah has made a cornerstone of her career.
Side deals, improper relationships with commissioners and judges, and corruption in the system of mediators and family law experts are being rooted out. Public corruption investions have done a little to chill these abuses, but the responsibility of allowing black hearts near your personal life and the lives of your children. Since she is best matched to spousal abusers, the damage to children is far down the priority list for such clients so as long as she's allowed to hold a license she'll find the clients who fit her professional mission and lack of care or commitment to the California justice system.
She may be long retired or forced out of the business before such criminal statutes are finalized in California, so in the meantime I offer this warning and advice on how to manage and avoid just one danger of many that can certainly cause serious damage to you. Resist the urge to win at all costs because after selecting Ms Mah as legal counsel to carry on abuse of a spouse through litigation and child custody horrors will result in exactly that.
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14 Nov, 2008 by Anonymous
He sold out to the interests of the insurance company CAP MPT. He istoo interested in settling as a business decision rather than fully defendi the client and solving the fraudulent case. As a result I have a blemished record and my insurer was not happy with me and I have to fill out tons of extra explanary paperwork every year
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06 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Did not keep word or respond to calls in a timely manner.
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
