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10 Oct, 2024 by Itzel padilla
Scott has been very helpful, reassuring and informative. He was quick to answer when I first contacted him. He’s been there to answer any questions or concerns that I’ve had through this process. He’s explained everything very thoroughly and always prepared me for the next steps. He was able to get me the best outcome I could have hoped for. I’m glad I chose him to be my attorney and if I ever need an attorney again, I know who to call.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Phil dunn
I referred a case to Scott and he did a fantastic job ending in the case being dismissed. As an attorney myself for over 40 years, I appreciate professional excellence when I see it. I recommend Scott to anyone who has a criminal case and needs a caring and highly competent attorney to represent them.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Maj jacob thomas shillig, esq.
As an immigration lawyer I do not handle criminal cases, so when one of my clients got arrested in Orange County, California I needed to help my client to find the very best criminal defense attorney.
I reached out to the people I trust in the area and they recommended Attorney Thomas. Scott Thomas is a force to be reckoned with, shortly after my client hired him, the case was dismissed!!
In other words, the best possible results! I strongly recommend this lawyer to my fellow attorneys as well as anyone in Southern California looking for a lawyer that gets results.
I have been practicing law for about 10 years so it is difficult to impress me but the Law Office of Scott C. Thomas gets a 10/10 and I will definitely be recommending them to all my California clients!!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Itzel padilla
Scott has been very helpful, reassuring and informative. He was quick to answer when I first contacted him. He’s been there to answer any questions or concerns that I’ve had through this process. He’s explained everything very thoroughly and always prepared me for the next steps. He was able to get me the best outcome I could have hoped for. I’m glad I chose him to be my attorney and if I ever need an attorney again, I know who to call.
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Phil dunn
I referred a case to Scott and he did a fantastic job ending in the case being dismissed. As an attorney myself for over 40 years, I appreciate professional excellence when I see it. I recommend Scott to anyone who has a criminal case and needs a caring and highly competent attorney to represent them.
Read more
19 Jul, 2024 by Maj jacob thomas shillig, esq.
As an immigration lawyer I do not handle criminal cases, so when one of my clients got arrested in Orange County, California I needed to help my client to find the very best criminal defense attorney.
I reached out to the people I trust in the area and they recommended Attorney Thomas. Scott Thomas is a force to be reckoned with, shortly after my client hired him, the case was dismissed!!
In other words, the best possible results! I strongly recommend this lawyer to my fellow attorneys as well as anyone in Southern California looking for a lawyer that gets results.
I have been practicing law for about 10 years so it is difficult to impress me but the Law Office of Scott C. Thomas gets a 10/10 and I will definitely be recommending them to all my California clients!!
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20 Jun, 2019 by Esther
On the eleventh hour I was recommended to Katnik and Katnik, because I no longer was able to deal with the insurance company on my own for my worker’s comp case. I really appreciated the personal interactions with Kurt and his brilliant assistant Cynthia. My case was ongoing as the nature of my case and Kurt responded to all my emails and calls in a timely manner. At the end, the result exceeded my expectation. Thanks for all your teams’ efforts.
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03 Jun, 2016 by Jorge
Very informative, responding to my issues in a very professional and ethical manner
I highly recommend Ms Brown without any hesitation!
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05 Jan, 2023 by Ted mon
Patton Law delivered to us a comprehensive trust and was very helpful in finalizing the documents in a timely manner. It was very comfortable working with them and plan to use there services in the future...
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05 Jan, 2023 by Ted mon
Patton Law delivered to us a comprehensive trust and was very helpful in finalizing the documents in a timely manner. It was very comfortable working with them and plan to use there services in the future...
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19 Feb, 2025 by Lil_diablo909
My experience with fontes law group was superb they help me thru it A+++
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13 Feb, 2025 by Kim hernandez
Very professional, very understanding and very patient, he helped me win my case! 5 stars all the way
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24 Jan, 2025 by J mac
Very happy with the services thus far and look forward to continue working with them further
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19 Feb, 2025 by Lil_diablo909
My experience with fontes law group was superb they help me thru it A+++
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13 Feb, 2025 by Kim hernandez
Very professional, very understanding and very patient, he helped me win my case! 5 stars all the way
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24 Jan, 2025 by J mac
Very happy with the services thus far and look forward to continue working with them further
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29 Mar, 2016 by Yobana
I am so glad I found Miss Dana she helped us out in a personal injury lawsuit. She was nice and she listened to our problems and really wanted help us out! I am so thankful for all her help!!
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19 Nov, 2015 by Raquel
Ms. Douglas represented me in a personal injury case. She said at the beginning of my case that it was not worth a great deal of money. Through her hard work and research, she was able to find out details about my issues that made my case turn into one that ended up being very successful and valuable. My settlement was beyond my expectations. Her and her staff were always available by phone or email and I never had any questions or concerns that weren't immediately attended to.
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22 Apr, 2014 by Victoria
Dana is an extremely competent, professional and trustworthy attorney. She responds quickly, explains thoroughly, and offers a broad and specific view of circumstances. I would not hesitate to recommend or engage Dana in the future.
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05 Feb, 2025 by Ginger hitzke
I had the pleasure of working with Michael Ayaz on a recent matter. He was representing us in connection with an appeal from a neighbor. I found him to be an excellent subject matter expert. He provided clear guidance. He was a thorough communicator. I've had different attorneys represent me for different business matters and so I think he would be a good representative for an experienced client. His thoroughness with communication also causes me to think he would be a good attorney for a less experienced client who might be dealing with a complex or serious legal matter for the first time. Overall, excellent experience and good value.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Carlos ponce
Mike Ayaz of Blake and Ayaz is the lawyer you want in your corner. He represented me in a case brought on by ABC. It was already in a default judgment against me because ABC never properly notified me that there was a case against my establishment. Mike was able to get the default judgment thrown out and allowed me to start anew. The outcome was more than expected. I like that he did not sugarcoat anything. He was honest about my chances and the possible outcome from the beginning. Oh, and he took my call from day one. The other law firm took my name and said they would call back the following week. Mike always returns your phone calls and makes you feel like you're never alone and that you have the best lawyer representing you. He is a bull dog and that's what you need when dealing with ABC. I will also add that he took the time to know my wife and I personally and that he listens. I will forever be grateful for that. Lastly I will say that I so admire his quality of work that I have hired him for more legal work. Thank you Mike! 🍻
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20 Nov, 2024 by Danny singh
Great working with him! Excellent communication skills and he got on the case with very short notice. Very happy with the outcome. Highly recommend!
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05 Feb, 2025 by Ginger hitzke
I had the pleasure of working with Michael Ayaz on a recent matter. He was representing us in connection with an appeal from a neighbor. I found him to be an excellent subject matter expert. He provided clear guidance. He was a thorough communicator. I've had different attorneys represent me for different business matters and so I think he would be a good representative for an experienced client. His thoroughness with communication also causes me to think he would be a good attorney for a less experienced client who might be dealing with a complex or serious legal matter for the first time. Overall, excellent experience and good value.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Carlos ponce
Mike Ayaz of Blake and Ayaz is the lawyer you want in your corner. He represented me in a case brought on by ABC. It was already in a default judgment against me because ABC never properly notified me that there was a case against my establishment. Mike was able to get the default judgment thrown out and allowed me to start anew. The outcome was more than expected. I like that he did not sugarcoat anything. He was honest about my chances and the possible outcome from the beginning. Oh, and he took my call from day one. The other law firm took my name and said they would call back the following week. Mike always returns your phone calls and makes you feel like you're never alone and that you have the best lawyer representing you. He is a bull dog and that's what you need when dealing with ABC. I will also add that he took the time to know my wife and I personally and that he listens. I will forever be grateful for that. Lastly I will say that I so admire his quality of work that I have hired him for more legal work. Thank you Mike! 🍻
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20 Nov, 2024 by Danny singh
Great working with him! Excellent communication skills and he got on the case with very short notice. Very happy with the outcome. Highly recommend!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Minami chan
Very good team that is working hard on my request to get compensated.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Brandon son
This group is wonderful, caring, and quick to get back to any questions. Highly recommend.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Sammi chen
Everyone here is great from start to finish! Very professional and easy to communicate with. They walked me through the entire process. I am pleased with my service and my settlement!
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31 Jan, 2024 by Carlethia murray
Although my experience having to hire attorneys wasn’t what I wanted to do & it wasn’t a pleasant journey; it is what was needed and Moran law firm tried to make it less painful as possible. I actually found this attorneys office on a whim because I live in Vegas and the case was in Calif. The attorneys down to David, the paralegal were impeccable. No nonsense and takes care of business. I came across their name/number strolling thru the yellow pages (google). Called a few others, Moran took my case & did an excellent job. They’d keep me updated on my mother’s case, if zoom meetings were necessary, they scheduled them and my whole family would join. Had to ask some pretty intense questions but, needed to get the job done. They offered & opened up the phone lines to Myself & my family if anyone needed to reachnout to them with questions however, to minimize them from getting inundated with questions; I tried to stay on top of that.
One issue, I personally think they need to handle, was the front end secretary(whatever her title is). She answers the phones. I’m not sure if she’s still there; I personally told them how rude she was; ALWAYS and I told HER how rude she was. Hopefully, something was said to her so that she changed her demeanor/attitude.
I can’t recall how long it took; not too long to settle the case. Something I’d like to forget🙂. I STILL miss my mom to this day💔.
Thank you Moran Law firm for a job well done.
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04 Dec, 2023 by Keith jones
Moran Law is one of the most professional firms I have dealt with. Their review of my case was detailed along with explaining everything up front, so I knew what to expect. Once the case was underway, their communication was prompt and detailed throughout. I never had to worry about where we were at or if I needed to do anything. Settlement was quick and I was very satisfied with the process and handling of the case. The entire firm is of the highest integrity and showed compassion for us and our circumstances. Many thanks to Mike, his partners and all his staff for helping my family through what was a very difficult and trying time for us. God Bless!!!
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04 Dec, 2023 by Kelly mcelvany
The team at Moran Law did an amazing job supporting me and my family while bringing closure to my legal issue. I’m very happy with the result and would highly recommend them.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Ersi medina
Receptionist was rude and didn’t really offer any help outside of what you can find on google. Phone call took a total of 3 minutes if not less and it felt like I was taking her time. Cut me off a couple times while speaking.
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03 Feb, 2024 by Connie wheeler
Ms. Hadjian was a delight to work with. We were under an important time constraint, we were from out of state and Ms. Hadjian was very professional and solved a very difficult Guardianship problem for us. Anyone that works with Ms. Hadjian will be very pleased to have her handling your case.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Esther jaryenneh
22 Jul, 2024 by Ersi medina
Receptionist was rude and didn’t really offer any help outside of what you can find on google. Phone call took a total of 3 minutes if not less and it felt like I was taking her time. Cut me off a couple times while speaking.
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03 Feb, 2024 by Connie wheeler
Ms. Hadjian was a delight to work with. We were under an important time constraint, we were from out of state and Ms. Hadjian was very professional and solved a very difficult Guardianship problem for us. Anyone that works with Ms. Hadjian will be very pleased to have her handling your case.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Esther jaryenneh
16 Nov, 2024 by Andres hernandez
Mr. Anderson was simply stellar. I had a justified but very challenging Lemon Law case - which scared away most of the other lemon lawyers I spoke with. Thankfully, one of those lawyers referred me to Anderson Law. I guess he has a reputation in the field for being able to win difficult cases. He definitely succeeded where most others were too afraid to even try.
I would describe Mr. Anderson as thorough, precise, highly experienced, knowledgeable, articulate, intentional, intelligent, friendly, and very effective. I took great comfort in knowing that my case was being handled by someone whose expertise is off the charts. It is clear from working with him that his amazing track record is because he is that good, and not because he only takes the easy cases. I hope that I never get another lemon. But if I do, he will be my first phone call.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Joseph palmeira
I would’ve give this firm a Zero Stars, but I can’t. Unfortunately, users are required to give at least one star to post a response. Lawyer stated that I had a case, but couldn’t take the case. Therefore, find a reputable lawyer that will take the case and fight for your rights. This attorney will not .
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31 Jul, 2024 by Brandon bateman
Amazing Lemon Law Attorney. Response time is great. He answered all my questions and was very detailed. We will use Anderson Law Firm again if we are ever in need of a lemon law attorney.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Ersi medina
Receptionist was rude and didn’t really offer any help outside of what you can find on google. Phone call took a total of 3 minutes if not less and it felt like I was taking her time. Cut me off a couple times while speaking.
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03 Feb, 2024 by Connie wheeler
Ms. Hadjian was a delight to work with. We were under an important time constraint, we were from out of state and Ms. Hadjian was very professional and solved a very difficult Guardianship problem for us. Anyone that works with Ms. Hadjian will be very pleased to have her handling your case.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Esther jaryenneh
08 Jan, 2025 by Briseida zavala
Recommending 100% a la Abogada Patricia. Es muy profesional , amable y con mucha experiencia en el te ma de imigracion. En lo personal me ayudo con la vida U, mi recidencia y con mi ciudadanía..también ayudo a personas d mi familia, incluyendo a mi esposo que pensábamos que jamás podría arreglar y ahora se convirtió en ciudadano americano gracias Patricia. Y a mi madre q está en proceso . Patricia habla con la verdad y no oculta nada si no puede llevar tu caso ella es muy honesta y te lo dise.. en lo personal estoy tan agradecida con Patricia por toda su ayuda
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11 Jul, 2024 by Ricardo cubias
11 Jul, 2024 by Atilio garcia saravia
19 Feb, 2025 by Lil_diablo909
My experience with fontes law group was superb they help me thru it A+++
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13 Feb, 2025 by Kim hernandez
Very professional, very understanding and very patient, he helped me win my case! 5 stars all the way
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24 Jan, 2025 by J mac
Very happy with the services thus far and look forward to continue working with them further
Read more
19 Feb, 2025 by Lil_diablo909
My experience with fontes law group was superb they help me thru it A+++
Read more
13 Feb, 2025 by Kim hernandez
Very professional, very understanding and very patient, he helped me win my case! 5 stars all the way
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by J mac
Very happy with the services thus far and look forward to continue working with them further
Read more
19 Feb, 2025 by Lil_diablo909
My experience with fontes law group was superb they help me thru it A+++
Read more
13 Feb, 2025 by Kim hernandez
Very professional, very understanding and very patient, he helped me win my case! 5 stars all the way
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by J mac
Very happy with the services thus far and look forward to continue working with them further
Read more
19 Feb, 2025 by Lil_diablo909
My experience with fontes law group was superb they help me thru it A+++
Read more
13 Feb, 2025 by Kim hernandez
Very professional, very understanding and very patient, he helped me win my case! 5 stars all the way
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by J mac
Very happy with the services thus far and look forward to continue working with them further
Read more
19 Feb, 2025 by Lil_diablo909
My experience with fontes law group was superb they help me thru it A+++
Read more
13 Feb, 2025 by Kim hernandez
Very professional, very understanding and very patient, he helped me win my case! 5 stars all the way
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by J mac
Very happy with the services thus far and look forward to continue working with them further
Read more
19 Feb, 2025 by Lil_diablo909
My experience with fontes law group was superb they help me thru it A+++
Read more
13 Feb, 2025 by Kim hernandez
Very professional, very understanding and very patient, he helped me win my case! 5 stars all the way
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by J mac
Very happy with the services thus far and look forward to continue working with them further
Read more
16 Nov, 2024 by Andres hernandez
Mr. Anderson was simply stellar. I had a justified but very challenging Lemon Law case - which scared away most of the other lemon lawyers I spoke with. Thankfully, one of those lawyers referred me to Anderson Law. I guess he has a reputation in the field for being able to win difficult cases. He definitely succeeded where most others were too afraid to even try.
I would describe Mr. Anderson as thorough, precise, highly experienced, knowledgeable, articulate, intentional, intelligent, friendly, and very effective. I took great comfort in knowing that my case was being handled by someone whose expertise is off the charts. It is clear from working with him that his amazing track record is because he is that good, and not because he only takes the easy cases. I hope that I never get another lemon. But if I do, he will be my first phone call.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Joseph palmeira
I would’ve give this firm a Zero Stars, but I can’t. Unfortunately, users are required to give at least one star to post a response. Lawyer stated that I had a case, but couldn’t take the case. Therefore, find a reputable lawyer that will take the case and fight for your rights. This attorney will not .
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Brandon bateman
Amazing Lemon Law Attorney. Response time is great. He answered all my questions and was very detailed. We will use Anderson Law Firm again if we are ever in need of a lemon law attorney.
Read more
16 Nov, 2024 by Andres hernandez
Mr. Anderson was simply stellar. I had a justified but very challenging Lemon Law case - which scared away most of the other lemon lawyers I spoke with. Thankfully, one of those lawyers referred me to Anderson Law. I guess he has a reputation in the field for being able to win difficult cases. He definitely succeeded where most others were too afraid to even try.
I would describe Mr. Anderson as thorough, precise, highly experienced, knowledgeable, articulate, intentional, intelligent, friendly, and very effective. I took great comfort in knowing that my case was being handled by someone whose expertise is off the charts. It is clear from working with him that his amazing track record is because he is that good, and not because he only takes the easy cases. I hope that I never get another lemon. But if I do, he will be my first phone call.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Joseph palmeira
I would’ve give this firm a Zero Stars, but I can’t. Unfortunately, users are required to give at least one star to post a response. Lawyer stated that I had a case, but couldn’t take the case. Therefore, find a reputable lawyer that will take the case and fight for your rights. This attorney will not .
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Brandon bateman
Amazing Lemon Law Attorney. Response time is great. He answered all my questions and was very detailed. We will use Anderson Law Firm again if we are ever in need of a lemon law attorney.
Read more
31 Jan, 2024 by Carlethia murray
Although my experience having to hire attorneys wasn’t what I wanted to do & it wasn’t a pleasant journey; it is what was needed and Moran law firm tried to make it less painful as possible. I actually found this attorneys office on a whim because I live in Vegas and the case was in Calif. The attorneys down to David, the paralegal were impeccable. No nonsense and takes care of business. I came across their name/number strolling thru the yellow pages (google). Called a few others, Moran took my case & did an excellent job. They’d keep me updated on my mother’s case, if zoom meetings were necessary, they scheduled them and my whole family would join. Had to ask some pretty intense questions but, needed to get the job done. They offered & opened up the phone lines to Myself & my family if anyone needed to reachnout to them with questions however, to minimize them from getting inundated with questions; I tried to stay on top of that.
One issue, I personally think they need to handle, was the front end secretary(whatever her title is). She answers the phones. I’m not sure if she’s still there; I personally told them how rude she was; ALWAYS and I told HER how rude she was. Hopefully, something was said to her so that she changed her demeanor/attitude.
I can’t recall how long it took; not too long to settle the case. Something I’d like to forget🙂. I STILL miss my mom to this day💔.
Thank you Moran Law firm for a job well done.
Read more
04 Dec, 2023 by Keith jones
Moran Law is one of the most professional firms I have dealt with. Their review of my case was detailed along with explaining everything up front, so I knew what to expect. Once the case was underway, their communication was prompt and detailed throughout. I never had to worry about where we were at or if I needed to do anything. Settlement was quick and I was very satisfied with the process and handling of the case. The entire firm is of the highest integrity and showed compassion for us and our circumstances. Many thanks to Mike, his partners and all his staff for helping my family through what was a very difficult and trying time for us. God Bless!!!
Read more
04 Dec, 2023 by Kelly mcelvany
The team at Moran Law did an amazing job supporting me and my family while bringing closure to my legal issue. I’m very happy with the result and would highly recommend them.
Read more
01 Dec, 2023 by Kathleen
I wrote an article about representation for an auto injury over 40 years ago.
This review is not current and I would not want potential clients to consider Gordon Phillips based on one personal injury case in Orange County, again over 40 years ago
The case was last minute, it did not go to court and it was settled for a small minimum amount.
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15 Dec, 2017 by Kathleen
A truck driven by a female driver (while she was doing her nails while driving) ran into our car, spun around and hit us again. I received an injury in the location of the C6 and C7 in my neck. The attorney we had, totally mishandled the case. We were two days from losing our case, because our attorney did nothing. I contacted Gordon Phillips and in two days he turned the entire case around and we won. He has helped our extended family members for over 35 years when small situations arise that we needed his advice. He is brilliant, effective, charismatic in his negotiations, never rude or condescending like some attorney's. He really cares about you, your welfare and your case. He is very protective of his clients and stays on top of everything. The small details are what are often missed in contracts and litigation, that is just one of the reasons he is so effective and amazing. The most important thing, he wins cases because he is totally prepared, has great respect for his clients and takes care of the small details. Gordon has handled multi-million-dollar cases; yes, again he wins!
I would highly recommend Gordon Phillips to handle your case. I have worked with many commercial attorneys over the past 40 years in my profession and am very aware of the really great attorneys in many of the legal fields. As to personal injury attorneys, Gordon Phillips ranks at the very top of the list!
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07 Dec, 2015 by Irene
I believe that Gordon is very thoughtful and firm in his beliefs in what is right and wrong. I appreciate that he and his staff are available after hours and even on the weekends.
Gordon and his staff kept me informed throughout the development of my case.
I was specially impressed with Gordon's preparation at mediation. Gordon walked in with poster board exhibits and I believe that this technique truly helped settle my case at the value it settled for.
I think that above everything else, Gordon strongly believes in what's right and wrong, which is a characteristic that not too many people have anymore.
Lastly, I strongly believe that with Gordon's extensive experience, the complexities of my case were represented very well.
I have recommended many friends and family to Gordon and I will continue to do so in the future.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Cindy morales
10 Jan, 2025 by Luz rodríguez
Muy eficientes esta firma de abogados yo la recomiendo siempre me mantuvieron informada
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03 Jan, 2025 by Juana rosales gomez
Kimberly Perez and her assistant Brenda Barrios were absolutely amazing! I had an extremely great time with them & they both elaborated every step amazingly well, they’re quick, and most importantly dependable. They both are also Spanish speakers which was very helpful.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Guadalupe rodriguez
I retained Elia to help with my daughter's situation (DUI case) and did not help her at all. She let the Norwalk court rail road my daughter and had her life turned upside down. Elia was no helpful at all. When my daughter called her for assistance after my daughter was sentenced, Elia did not assist her. Money was not an issue but after her comment to my daughter I would never refer her to anyone.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Matthew laguna
I had an excellent experience with my lawyer, Elia. She was incredibly helpful throughout my case, going above and beyond to ensure that I understood every step of the process. Her communication skills were top-notch, always keeping me informed and promptly responding to any questions or concerns I had. Her expertise in the field was evident, and it gave me confidence in the advice and guidance she provided. Additionally, I greatly appreciated her patience in explaining complex legal matters in a way that was easy for me to grasp. I would highly recommend Elia to anyone in need of legal assistance. Thank you, Elia, for your outstanding support!
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03 Dec, 2022 by Thom wellman
I was so fortunate to have Elia A Naqvi representing me during my past encounter with the court system! She is professional, astute, and sincere. She helped allay my fears about the potential worst case scenarios and helped me to focus on the facts not the fiction. I am pleased to wholeheartedly recommend Elia for anyone that is looking for an honest, committed, and trustworthy 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:
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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.
