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06 Mar, 2024 by Nick pavioni
Brian and his team were quick to reply to all my questions during the process and reached a much better settlement than expected. Thank you,
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22 Feb, 2024 by Chuck doyle
Brian always is on top of what ever is going on. If you need an Attorney Brian Flahavan is the guy to see.
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17 Jan, 2024 by American lover
Smart attorneys. Very bright team of lawyers
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04 Sep, 2024 by Jg bracco
Called this jerk for a consultation on property issues. Tried to give him the basic background and issues I was facing and he kept interrupting and telling me how he does this and that, without hearing me out or accurately understanding what I was asking. Then when I tried to tell him what my real issues were, he gets pissed and tells me off. Who argues with people trying to give them business? Maybe lighten up on the caffeine.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ishii rhyker
Mr. Bisbiglia is by far the best defense lawyer to work with in Sonoma County. His professionalism in representing me in my own personal case helped me during a time of turmoil and confusion. He truly cares about what he does and was dedicated to making sure any and all questions I had were answered in a timely manner. I would highly recommend the Law Office of Joe Bisbiglia to any persons who are in search of a confident defense attorney.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Nate hines
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03 May, 2021 by Carrie
Josh West came highly recommended by our friends. Josh and his team help our family through the wrongful death of my mother. We were emotionally devastated, anxious that similar mishaps might happen to others, and just scared because we never had been through any legal events before. Josh was patient with our ignorance of proceedings, empathetic of our hurt, and clearly experienced in not only the legal workings of medical malpractice but a deep knowledge of medical topics itself. Highly recommended.
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28 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Great lawyer, highly recommend! Professional and wants the best for the client
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18 Mar, 2021 by Benjamin
Our friends referred us to Josh West. We needed someone who would be kind and patient with our elderly father and who wouldn't mind overcoming a language barrier. Josh would explain things to us as many times as we needed to not just understand, but to feel confident. He won our case, medical malpractice or wrongful death for my mother in law, but went further in pushing Kaiser to develop new procedures to protect patients. This was our real goal, eliminating that negligence. Josh and also his team, including the experts he hired - people that he knew through his network or discovered for us - have our thanks and recommendation. Here is his profile on the site, in case you want to find him: https://www.smithdollar.com/attorneys/joshua-m-west/
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17 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
He is by far no 5 star lawyer,, that is false. Richard Sax is nothing but a crook,, who overcharges his clients for things he doesn't do to defend you. My experience with this man was embarrassing when it came time to defend me. He babbled about taking the deal I was offered and in front of everyone he raised his voice telling me I was a drug abuser and put me down suggesting I was at fault when he was suppose to be defending me. He was fired directly after our conference with the other attorney wasting a year of my time making false statements to me saying how he would fight for me when he does nothing but get red in the face and flustered when put on the spot. He will not defend you,, he pushes off court dates and drags it on and on,, to make money off his clients. He is an embarrassment to have as your lawyer. I don't think he is capable of doing his job. You van do better defending yourself as he does nothing you ask,, always disagrees and does only what he wants n does not care about his clients at all. He will charge you for many things and then lose your case that's the truth. Stay away from this crook. I've never had a lawyer who is so stupid. I've watched him do the same thing to peeps I've net n known for years as he ripped them off and lost each case I've heard of threw his clients. Somebody should stop him from cheating people out of their money and time. He can't even defend himself for his lame actions. Dirtbag lawyer in my opinion. Fact
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12 Nov, 2020 by Scott
Richard may have been a good attorney once - I now think he doesn’t care about his clients. Everything here is my opinion, personal feelings or facts of the case. A person is using restraining orders to stalk me. Desperate to recover my life, I reluctantly sought a protective order. I told Richard I only want to proceed if he was certain we’d win; he was pretty sure we could. After 2 years extreme PTSD, I gathered up last savings, paid his retainer. A huge step for me just to be in the courtroom with my abuser. We agreed to hiring a process server. His office called, insisted I find a friend to serve process or we’d miss filing date. High anxiety for me, never did get her served. I informed Richard, he said I’d wanted to be “near her.” First red flag for sure. Should have fired him then and there. He refused to become familiar with the prior case, could not convince him to be prepared. He not being conversant cost us dearly. In the courtroom, he was a complete greenhorn. My stalker took my claims and filed her own restraining order. Richard was unreachable - even his office doesn’t know how to reach him. When he finally responded, he said nothing new here - of course, it was my exact language! My stalker charged at me on the beach screaming and cussing. I couldn’t prove it, then lo, she brought in video which did. The video showed she lay in wait and images further contradicted her own Declaration. She lied 2x. Richard couldn’t win with that. My own witness described being harassed by my stalker 2x, followed out of the market by my ex with fists raised, spittle flying. She feared for her own safety and underwent six weeks of panic attacks. A County Supervisor’s wife, no less! Richard couldn’t win with that. My ex’s argument for running a stop sign to hit me was there were places I could have pulled over. I said I did pull over, her fool attorney just repeated himself. She did not deny the violent attack with a motor vehicle. Richard told me he’d won restraining orders just because someone gave someone the “bird”. I personally find it aggressive and yet my stalker proudly admitted it. Richard did not win. Richard presented his bill as if he’d won the case, a full 25% over his rate. The whole courtroom seem embarrassed as this doddering man was fully out of step with the proceedings. Ex and I were in the same restaurant together, no restraining orders issued. I never approached her, I never saw her. Oddly, my ex describes her own fixated behavior taking photos of me backwards over her shoulder, which photos contradict her own claims. Judge said ex gasped when she saw me, therefore deserves a 5 year restraining order against me, even though her testimony and declarations contradicted! I’m further entrapped by this person I only dated 1.5 years and want nothing more than to be left alone, worse off than before I’d met Richard. He failed to object, despite being asked, to the other attorney’s highly inflated fees, costing me an additional $5,000. I was suffering from PTSD so badly I couldn’t earn income. One word, object, would have done it. Richard’s invoice came in 3x over his quote, though no change in scope, venue, or the anticipated contention of opposing party, less work than promised, was unconversant. Entitled to copies of exhibits, Richard failed to request real-time, then refused to get them for me. Basic stuff. I feared I may have to move from my home. Richard quipped, “I think we did a pretty good job.” Really? She continues to stalk me. There’s nothing I can do, I’m disabled, terrorized, afraid to go out. COVID may have a single upside - I’ve been left alone more, and can finally get my head around what happened and write this review. It is my view that Richard Sax does not care about his clients, cases, profession. He struck me as lazy, uninformed, unresourceful, unskilled. He got me into far worse territory than I was. I highly recommend avoiding -
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22 Apr, 2018 by Melissa
After fighting foreclosure on my own for years by raising legal challenges it was time to turn it over to a professional. Knowing that most homeowners lose I needed the best attorney possible because I couldn't lose my home of thirty years. After much research on Google scholar it was narrowed down to three or four attorneys or law firms in Northern California based on repeated success for homeowners against the banks. One stood out not only for having a published opinion but also because I'd hired him years earlier to successfully represent me in a partnership dispute and that was Richard Sax. He has all the qualities that you want in an attorney. He's a sharp and experienced litigator who's driven to win and respected by the courts and the opposition. He's also honest and wants the best result for his clients. His communication skills are excellent, he listens and works with the client and always promptly responds to emails which I understand is kind of unusual. There aren't that many attorneys willing to go up against big business and the banks on the behalf of the little guy but this is something at which Sax excels. Foreclosure litigation is complex involving multiple areas of the law and he is experienced in them all. Making his representation even more effective his practice includes highly regarded real estate attorney, William Matz. His paralegals and staff are always cordial and helpful and this means a lot in something as nerve wracking as fighting a financial institution trying to take your home. His successful representation has prevented my home from being foreclosed on and I give him the highest possible recommendation.
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25 Sep, 2023 by James peterson
In was accused of a crime and was referred by a friend ? Big mistake this guy does not know what he is doing gave me a big line how he would get charges dropped and he says will refund the differce lol ? A year later and I almost had gone to jail if I did not do something fast ? Got a new attorney and charges dropped wiw do not use this guy …..
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04 May, 2021 by Talia correia
Hes amazing
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13 Feb, 2021 by Halley miller
He's always been the lawyer my family comes to if there is ever a dispute with the law, he's a good guy and a good lawyer. I'd love to have him on my side if the time comes.
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25 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
We went with this attorney because we felt his longevity in law would mean he is prepared, seasoned, and would do a good job for us. We found him to be unprepared; at times argumentative; at times defensive; at times non-responsive and generally overcharged for his "services". Incredibly he missed critical deadlines! Most disappointing he was entirely ineffective and sat on his hands when it was time to represent our interests. I have worked with more than 100 attorneys during my career. I can't think of an attorney that charged so much and accomplished so little.
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10 Sep, 2021 by Stacey swanson
Honest and caring people.
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23 Nov, 2022 by Brian
Well, Don ripped my company off for work we did on his office network. He has avoided payment 4 times that he told me to stop by and pick up a check..His secretary says no check, and Don is not in the office....But his car is right outside...Hmmmm The guy has been suspended from the bar for ripping of senior citizens..
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25 Jan, 2012 by Magnity interactive / wildoutwest
Top talent. Highly intelligent and the sort of person who gets the job done. You wouldn't think you'd have to say this about a lawyer - but there are a lot of slouches that are going through the motions for the fees. Don is a trial lawyer of the highest caliber - he will fight to win, and bring his exceptional talents to the table on your behalf rather than simply roll over and settle for half as many seem to. I beleive he will work on contingency for the right cases.
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17 Mar, 2022 by Eric pressley
Nan johnson is no good for me ive called about 150 times over the corse of 4 months affter my court she was suppose to be helping my see my daughter but she has not answered my calls not one of them shes suppose to be helping me get my daughter back and she has done nothing for my i dont no if its becouse im black i just dont know im eric pressley erica browns father my number is 6282406728 and she still has not answered any of my calls she has not helpted me not one bit i had inadicet counsle and i need a Lowyer that will help me get my daughter back shes doing the same thing that another county dd to me they looked over me ive not had a chance to be a father to my 2 year old and its killing me i cant even think straight i want to get my daughjter back i need help
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11 Mar, 2022 by Eric
Nan Johnson is no good she is the reason why I don't have custody of my 2year old daughter ive called her phone for over 4 months leaving message after message pleading with her to help me and yet still no answer she have lied to me and on me my name is Eric pressley I'm Erica browns father it's been over 4 months no contact she is supposed to get my visit going with my daughter I have not seen her since she was 4 months old she still has not helped me or even tried to me she have been dodging my phone call she is no good to me and know one else how can she not return my call knowing that im trying to get my daughter back its not right she needs to get her job took for male practice.she have not represented me in no way
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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:

  1. What is your experience with personal injury cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has handled cases involving similar injuries or accidents.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and what percentage they will take from any settlement or award.
  3. 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.
  4. How often do you take cases to trial?
    Some lawyers prefer to settle quickly, while others are more comfortable going to court if necessary.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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