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25 Sep, 2024 by Honest john
Going back a number of years ago my wife and I consulted with Marjorie about possibly filing a bankruptcy. At the consultation Marjorie happily Accepted a check for A retainer of over a $1000 from us. The only reason we had that money was from a tax return. Shortly after we decided not to go through with the bankruptcy and asked for the refund. Let me add, There were no papers filled out and no paperwork filed for a bankruptcy. No work on her part was rendered at any time. Her assistant acted as if she knew nothing about it so I provided them with a copy of the cashed check. I followed up with the assistant/secretary many times leaving voicemail messages and talking to them directly over the phone. I was always given the run around that they had to discuss it with Marjorie. They literally had a copy of the cash check that they cashed. What more would they possibly need to prove they owed it to us. After over a year of getting the run around and being ignored we finally gave up. She took the money, Never provided any services for it And refused to acknowledge us. She is a piece of garbage in my eyes and not worth the space she takes up or the money she steals. Literally taking Over a $1000 from someone who is SO down and out that they are considering bankruptcy. What a despicable human being. After looking through the reviews it appears that we were not the only victims.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Karen pasqualicchio
Just met with her for an estate. She was very good and gave us a step by step plan.
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05 Mar, 2023 by Eric t
Marjorie is an amazing Attorney and person. She's very direct and forthcoming with her thoughts and ideas and doesn't pull any punches. I appreciate all that's she's done for my friends and my family, and consider her a dear friend.
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21 Jul, 2023 by Kelly
Was truly disappointed in regards to how he handled things with my husband’s federal white collar case. His lack of knowledge of the changes with the First Steps Act of 2018. Making me feel that my concerns were not priority, and not explaining why they should or shouldn’t be.
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18 Mar, 2019 by Diane
Ernie Preate is in my experience the best prosecutor Lackawanna county ever had. He put Joseph Aulisio in jail for life. He was very professional and made sure he took Mr. Allison off the streets for life. My family is very happy and stands by him for every thing he has done for us.
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29 Mar, 2018 by Jennifer
Upon consulting Mr. Preate regarding allegations made against my 11 year old son - he eased all my worries and gave our family the confidence we needed to proceed accordingly. We hired him and breathed a sigh of relief knowing we had him on our side. The case is still on going however every step of the way he has proven to be the perfect fit for our case. He has shown us that he is willing to fight for my son just as hard (if not harder) than I ever could. Extremely intelligent and a straight shooter. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of a good criminal defense attorney.
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17 Sep, 2022 by Nevaeh rosencrance
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04 Mar, 2020 by Debraann debra
Be very careful with this attorney! Make sure you check with other attorneys in the area for the cost of a case similar to yours. He definitely over charges! He must think he is still in Philadelphia. Reels you in with big talk and after you sign on he “implores” you to take a plea deal even if your innocent. Then has the nerve to get mad at you when you refuse the plea. What’s the point in paying thousands of dollars for a lawyer to fight your case for you if he is just going to beg you to take a plea deal. Seriously you can do that for free. We did go to trial! He did not present all of our evidence and was still found not guilty. And he wanted me to take a plea deal where I was looking at many many years in prison. All I can say is WOW! Hope this helps. Good luck!
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26 Jul, 2019 by Art machler
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13 May, 2017 by Tom, scrantonville.com
Best stated to me by a fifty year veteran lawyer and principle owner of his Philadelphia law firm. " I HAVE NEVER SEEN ANYONE IN MY LIFETIME, AS MISREPRESENTED AS YOU"
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20 Nov, 2014 by Ismael retamar
Paul walker is the best lawyer for any criminal case!! I say that from facts ,Paul has represented me two time and believe me when I tell u that I was happy with the resource. Paul take time out to hear his clients and he fights for what is right. a men who like to get to the point, may seem serious or got somewhere else to be, but that's only because he has a strong judge of character and have the best interest of his clients!! Paul will get the best deals for his clients or take it to trial he is not scare to tell the D.A like it is, he's not with selling out his clients he knows the law like he knows the back of his hands he doesn't have to come to court in a expensive tuxedo to explore his royalty for his knowledge of the law says it all !! I know every client is entitled to his own opinion however I read one client review he stating that Paul seem like he didn't have time for him but to me it seem like he was looking for someone to hold his hands if Paul did that with everyone he wont have time to keep his clients out of jail
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24 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I could not have made worse choice than to hire this attorney. He was rude, unprofessional, and made it seem like he had somewhere better to be every time I spoke to him, even when we were in court. He is obviously smart, but lazy. He should have retired long ago. He doesn't care in the least how his cases turn out, only that he gets paid for his time. I found out AFTER my case that he had mislead me about the seriousness of the consequences I faced. He didn't lie but he left huge steps out of his 'explanation' of what he had me agree to in court, and I'll have to deal with that for the rest of my life. Do not trust this man with your future. You will be the one paying the price, long after he has forgotten your name.
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19 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Litigates fake injuries for monetary gain. Takes on clients with felony past to grab quick insurance claims.
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25 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr Mazzoni is not someone that I would do business with for the following reasons. The man did not do any preparation for the meeting that I drove an hour and a half to and proceeded to give me indirect answers to any of my questions. He repeated himself on numerous points and went off topic with many tangents. He was not up front with any fees nor took the time to explain what process was involved . Having a concern of my time and resources, I wanted a legitimate estimate and I would never trust someone who was tight lipped on that from the start. Get someone who wants to invest the time in your case because this man will just give you a song and a dance.
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14 Aug, 2021 by Shane
Was told by most lawyers to hire this lady. She showed up late to my first court case by half an hour. She never answered any calls when I needed help from my lawyer. She still has yet to return any of my paperwork I gave her for my case and has refused to respond to emails. Worst lawyer experience ever and felt betrayed and used for my money.
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16 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired him to handle a personal injury case and he did nothing for about 4 years and didn't fight for me with the case at all. I just let it go because I wanted to move on with my life, but that injury was permanent and he could have won easily with the witness I had and even the police were on my side. I learned the hard way do not just hire someone because they are in proximity to the courthouse.
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26 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I was referred to this attorney by my SSI attorney. This law firm is very condescending to its clients. They do not return calls (attorney or paralegal), they do not follow up, and when I had to hear from the local SSI office that my paralegal was supposed to call me and never did was the final straw. While I did hire him, I immediately regretted it because he was very judgmental upon our initial consultation. For the reputation they have alleged to build, they do not value the commodity that is their client base.
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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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