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27 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Vargas to assist me with a legal family law matter. She was not knowledgeable in this area of law. She was unable to accurately answer my questions or provide sound legal advice. She was not prepared for our Court date and I felt like she didn't even know the facts of my case. She has no attention to detail and provides no customer service. She wouldn't return my calls and failed to keep me updated as to the status of my case. I would have been better off representing myself. I received very poor representation and would not recommend this attorney to anyone who is looking for an aggressive knowledgeable attorney.
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17 Jul, 2017 by Lorraine
Zero compassion. Zero knowledge. Provided zero evidence when there was a plethora available. If you truly believe that your fight is worth fighting for, do not hire Wendy. She will not give you the good fight.
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20 Apr, 2017 by Liliana
We loved working with Wendy, she was excellent explaining all our options, was very quick in preparing all our documents and prices were fair.
We will keep working with her in all our legal needs.
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18 May, 2019 by Scott
Spoke to attorney, was impressed with on the phone. I intended to hire him. He asked me to send in paperwork and an intake form, which I did immediately. He never responded, refused to take or return my calls or emails. It was a potential medical negligence case.
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20 Feb, 2017 by G. s.
Great attorney and staff. Mr. Stringer kept me informed and answered my questions throughout the length of my case. Whenever he was not available, his secretary would make sure to answer my questions and deliver any message to him. He has been our family attorney for years and will continue to be. I pray I never get hurt again, but if I do I will go back to him. I highly reccomend him.
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12 Sep, 2011 by Eric carter
very well mannered and kept me informed his staff is great
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02 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
They quickly reviewed my information and accepted my case!! They said I won't have to pay out of pocket for my workmans comp injury after they said I was going to be denied... Simply Amazing!!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I haves hired a lawyer yet bc I was told nobody but Fresh Kitchen Worker comp team would be the only ones to help me. I am out of work, my insurance was canceled and I have no money coming in what so ever. The current staff at Fresh Kitchen has be forbidden to even speak to me
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25 Sep, 2024 by Migdalia
I was contacted by Regan from Berlin law firm. She did an intake on my incident . She was easy to talk with and explained the process on what follows after the intake. The information she shared was helpful.
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23 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
My experience w/ Mr. Fernandez and his asst. was not pleasant for the following reasons:
I had to stay on top of them with all things pertaining to my case. Had I not done so, my case would have played out for approx. 1 yr., and I would have exhausted all of my settlement money. I did the majority of calling the office for any and all information.
In our initial consultation, Mr. Fernandez told me he would let me know when his costs exceeded $300. It was only when I signed the settlement papers, did I realize his final costs were $600.
Most importantly, Mr. Fernandez initially tried to get me to sign off on a small settlement, w/ me paying out $4000 of my settlement money in remaining bills to my treating providers. Only when I asked him why he wasn’t calling the providers to negotiate, did he do so! What if I hadn’t said anything about him negotiating??
Other frustrations include Mr. Fernandez and his assistant lacking people skills. There was no comfort, explaining things “crystal” clearly, or true reassurance that their office would do any and everything on my behalf. I had to do my own homework, and educate myself on all things related to this case. I often felt like an annoyance, and was cut off and interrupted in conversations before being rushed off the phone or out of the office. I wonder if my case been more profitable for them, would they have been more attentive, caring or willing to explain with patience?
For all these reasons, I will not be recommending this firm to anyone, nor will I be using them again in the future.
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27 Dec, 2011 by Nina
i have nothing but good experience with this lawyer. he keeps to his word and keeps me informed. when his office says manny will call you back thats what he does. i have learned that he would rather speak your case to you in person than over the phone which i like alot better. if i had to hire a lawyer for any other reason i would hire this law group again over any body else. thank you for all your help manny, you are good at what you do.
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08 Apr, 2024 by It resources
Chip and Keona do a great job of keeping this firm on top of their game. The attorneys and staff truly care about their clients and I highly recommend them!
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25 Mar, 2024 by Nader maali
30 Nov, 2023 by Chad sagnip
I previously had another law firm handle my roof claim after the insurance company refused to pay and then folded. The company couldn’t resolve the issue which went to FIGA. So a friend referred Merlin group to handle the issue. They were very professional and kept me updated even though, at times, there was no progress to discuss. Through their persistence and constant contact with FIGA, the issue finally got resolved AFTER almost 2 years!! Hopefully this won’t happen again, but if it does, I’ll reach back out to them.
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11 May, 2024 by Melanie garay
09 Aug, 2023 by Christine holmes whatupholmes
21 Jul, 2023 by Christian gendebien
25 Jul, 2017 by Denise p
Mr. Anthony Chris Ekonomides is one of those lawyers who takes money and promises solid legal support but does not check the facts or scrutinize the details. I needed to send a legal letter to my ex-spouse who was not fully cooperating with a Court Order. Mr. Anthony Chris Ekonomides did not study the details of the case and ruined it completely. I lost my case because of his ignorance.
I would never use him again or recommend him to anybody.
Denise
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04 Jul, 2017 by Michelle bryant
Mr. Ekonomides is extremely professional and listens to your story without judgement. He always has your best interest at heart and is straight and to the point. He treats you with the utmost respect and sincerity. He makes you feel like you're his only case even though he has several. As his client, I put my total trust in his hands knowing he will give it his 100%. He is reasonably priced. I highly recommend Anthony Ekonomides in any case. I can not thank him enough for getting me through this difficult point in my life.
Very Respectfully,
Michelle
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27 Jun, 2017 by Laura
Mr. Anthony C. Ekonomides is very dishonest lawyer. In my post-divorce case he has promised me a lot, and achieve almost nothing. He is approaching very aggressive, however there is no any results in Court of his tactics. He just drain money with no practical success. Even my ex-husband who is technical person, easily destroyed our case during Court hearing.
I do not recommend Mr. Anthony C. Ekonomides for any kind of defense or family case.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Represents criminals who decapitate dogs pro bono. I find this absolutely deplorable and abhorrent.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Suzie
He represents a man who decapitated a rescue dog, put him in a plastic bag without his head, and put him in the mangroves in St. Pete. Who can represent this disgusting human? He must have no heart or conscience.
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25 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
I was arrested on some complete BS drug possession charge and did not know what to do as this was my first time ever getting in any sort of legal trouble or any trouble for that matter. Contacted Victor and he immediately eased my concerns and clearly stated my options and what exactly he was going to do for my case. He was optimistic but very practical in the explanation to me about what was about to transpire. He is also well known in the circle of prosecutors in the area which is an added bonus as he was able to off the bat drop my felony charge to a misdemeanor. He is also understanding of your financial situation and catered a custom financial plan that would not leave me dead broke. All in all, I dont plan on ever hiring another attorney but in the event that things dont go as planned, my anxiety is eased as I know I have an excellent attorney in my corner that I can call anytime. I recommend Victor to any and everyone who is in need of an attorney as you possibly cannot go wrong with him on your side!
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10 Sep, 2021 by Michael
I asked for an update on my case and he responded that he and his team were "evaluating".
Weeks go by with me following up via email. No answer.
When I messaged him today that I wanted a response or I was going to review him, THAT made Luis respond, "Thanks for the threat."
He states that he recommended me to go get medical procedures. I had gone to 2 doctor visits upon the firm's referral. The first one suggested that I get injections. I said OK. Time went by and nothing was scheduled.
Then they had me come in again for a redundant visit that was just like the previous one. (All-the-while the legal firm is probably getting kick-backs for running up a medical bill and referrals.)
I had finally had it with the place they referred me to. Although I have been going to the chiropractor the firm had sent me to for OVER A YEAR.
The person who hit me has $50k in liability coverage. They talked a BIG game at the start regarding that number and going for the max. Then a settlement offer came in for $10k and they folded.
In my opinion Luis and his team take the easy settlement and do not take cases to trail. Just from what I have seen after taking TWO cases to them.
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18 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney and has been dealing with him for years for couple accident cases. I can say, "Do not listen to the hype he puts in his presentations to gain your trust look at the real facts." The real law states," you never can get more than you pay for" in lei-mans terms under uninsured motorist coverage if your policy is 25k then are you are entitled too is 25k unless assets are involved then you must sue the party. This attorney had me waiting for 2yrs to resolve an accident case due to his continuous moves from law firm to law firm and when doing that it will become a loss to the client, He then accepted the case at the new firm and in 2 mos later the firm decided not to handle the case he had supposedly been working on. I have 122 text messages from this attorney back and forth and also documents scanned and sent to me in which I have kept to present in another matter. Basically, what I am conveying is too research your attorney before hire and get facts not fictions. The result to the 2yr case is still pending and with another firm. Not to discredit this attorney maybe good with other cases but I would not use again.
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27 Jan, 2011 by Iris
Mr.Luis Figureoa is a very excellent lawyer. I'm very gratefull of his work with my case. He keep me posted and review every detail of my case. He worked hard to get the most of my case. He fight for people rights. He is very accurate and know his job to the last detail. I would hire him again if I ever need a lawyer. Thanks.
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26 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Castro represented me during my divorce. Because of his sloppiness and unpreparedness, my divorce which was NOT contested still cost me upwards of of $35K. Each session, he would ask me the same questions, making me repeat myself, almost like he wasn't listening or taking notes. These redundant sessions drove my cost up. He also failed to negotiate for my rights during the divorce proceeding and I had to do the lawyer thinking for him. My ex spouse's attorney was much more competent and prepared than him. Do not use him unless you are prepared to watch your hard earned money disappear.
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31 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Castro assisted me with my divorce matter from beginning to end. I was very pleased with the outcome and the assistance throughout the entire matter.
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16 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I wish somebody told me before-hand but apparently the "large" firms are known for running up bills. With no major court days, or other big expenses they ran up $20,000 in a month on me without notifying me. I wish I was rich. The service was great. But when you give a retainer of $5000 and they do that I think it's unethical. Now I'm told that's what big firms do. I wish somebody would have told me. I would rather leave a NEGATIVE review for SHUTTS & BOWEN b/c my beef is no so much with Eirc but I can't. This is more for information about this firm than a bad review for Mr. Adams.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Melissa brito
I cannot recommend Smith & Eulo Law Firm enough! From the moment I approached them, I felt supported and informed. Their team was professional, compassionate, and truly dedicated to my case. They took the time to explain each step of the legal process to me, making it easy for me to understand. Thanks to his experience, I got the result I expected. If you need reliable legal representation, look no further than Smith & Eulo Law Firm
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01 Oct, 2024 by Demetra thrower
These are my brother’s words
I hired Eulo&Smith in April 2024 to cover my 2023 & 2024 Polk Case as well as my 2024 VOP in Hillsbough. I met Marie taylor who charged me $3000 for my VOP and 2024 Cass. I also Paid her $10,000 plus 1.5x totaling to $15,000 for my 2023 Polk case. She came to meet me and told me things that she was not able to do. She promised alot that did not come. She ignored me and my family for weeks. She missed both of my court dates as well as missed promises to come see me. I was told in July 2024 that she quit the law firm. I was then appointed Ms. Shannon Bailey which works for Eulo&Smith who constantly ignored my family again as well as her client, me, in jail. She made promsies to come see me and never came. In the past 6 months, I've only seen attoneys who were fill ins from the law firm on my last 4 manditory doctetings. The judge was livid as it does not take 6 months to articulate a deal that was supposed to be settled. Eulo&Smith took on too many cases according to Ms. Bailey and they're not able to keep up. I'm being foreced into taking a deal or going to trial in 3 weeks becasue this law firm has not reached out to me but only once about my case details and to make matters worse, the lawyer to heard them quit, Ms. Taylor. I have had chance court date after court date for someone to come out here and see me as i write this from a Kiosk. I have no way to contact my attorney except for my family as they're being ignored. I told a fill in from my court date that i paid 1.5x for better and priorty service and the employee, which I'm assuming is from the Orlando office, that there is no such thing as 1.5x or priorty service. I was told from Bailey that taylor took on too many clients and quit which I'm assuming she did to get paid and left.
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19 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Dealing with him as one of the worst attorney experience I’ve ever had. He is so unprofessional he will just start screaming if you don’t agree with him. I hired him to help represent my family he just seemed very combative and kept going on about politics as well. As I have no vested interest in politics Democrat or Republican he was obsessed with believing anybody in the republican party deeming them all Nazis. It was very unprofessional and would go on long rants about Donald Trump. He was more interested in doing this and listening to my case. He also was disrespectful to the judge which made it very difficult for me. The outcome of my case was terrible my worst fears. Please do not hire this man he appears to have mental problems.
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04 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Called for quick legal advice. I was surprised at the unprofessionalism and rudeness this attorney displayed. No good.
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29 Nov, 2020 by Carla
I was reunited with my son. My case was definitely not easy but Mr Garcia fought for my family,
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22 Apr, 2024 by Gene
Ryan handled my case very poorly and even hired another attorney just days before court to help him and practically set at the desk the whole time. He forgot to submit crittical important evidence provided to him and his partner Tim Patrick resulting in case being lost. He advised me not to be present for most of the court case as he was afraid of the jury would look down on me as it's hard to judge "ones pain by looking at them"
He did not respond to appeal requests in a timely manner despite several requests shown on court records resulting in the appeal being dropped and a judgement resulting in defense court costs being billed to me. Communication with him was practically impossible as he would never get back to you to answer questions and basically ignored me the whole case. He never updated me on several issues leaving me totally in the dark when court directed him to update me. I called a malpractice lawyer and was shocked how a Miami Malpractice lawyer already knew Rhan a lawyer in Tampa and said OMG you got one of the worst and he's not even insured.
This guy shows no manners to his clients, is irresponsible and very negligent in handling his cases.
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25 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Ryans's communication started off great and explaining the process to me, but basically, when he found out that the driver that hit me had bare minimum insurance he went completely MIA. It's been two years, I have heard absolutely nothing from him, I am left with chronic back pain, 2 herniated lumbar disc, and benefited NOTHING from hiring an attorney as it seems he closed my case without my knowledge and made sure he got paid.
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24 Mar, 2017 by Arthur
After retaining Ryan as my attorney all I had to do was concentrate on my physical health. Ryan handled all the details expediently with complete professionalism. Ryan's communication skills kept me informed not burdened. I have never been as competently represented.
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16 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
I am a client and find him difficult to get in touch with. I have no idea what is going on with my case. No idea how it is progressing. I feel I have to pull answer out of him and his assistant. I don't know what I should be expecting to hear or not hear. After a lengthy time and costs he has already incurred feel I am stuck with him.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn kagan
My HOA has this firm on retainer. I sent an email asking our attorney how much he would charge us to write a contract for a project. The reply was 4 quick lines and we were billed $81 for their "services". I can't figure out how else I would have found out the cost of the project without asking. Insane and insulting....we may be shopping for new legal counsel shortly!!
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08 May, 2022 by Drew brogdon
08 May, 2022 by Colleen brogdon
05 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn kagan
My HOA has this firm on retainer. I sent an email asking our attorney how much he would charge us to write a contract for a project. The reply was 4 quick lines and we were billed $81 for their "services". I can't figure out how else I would have found out the cost of the project without asking. Insane and insulting....we may be shopping for new legal counsel shortly!!
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08 May, 2022 by Drew brogdon
08 May, 2022 by Colleen brogdon
05 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn kagan
My HOA has this firm on retainer. I sent an email asking our attorney how much he would charge us to write a contract for a project. The reply was 4 quick lines and we were billed $81 for their "services". I can't figure out how else I would have found out the cost of the project without asking. Insane and insulting....we may be shopping for new legal counsel shortly!!
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08 May, 2022 by Drew brogdon
08 May, 2022 by Colleen brogdon
05 Jun, 2024 by Marilyn kagan
My HOA has this firm on retainer. I sent an email asking our attorney how much he would charge us to write a contract for a project. The reply was 4 quick lines and we were billed $81 for their "services". I can't figure out how else I would have found out the cost of the project without asking. Insane and insulting....we may be shopping for new legal counsel shortly!!
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08 May, 2022 by Drew brogdon
08 May, 2022 by Colleen brogdon
28 Sep, 2019 by Jeremy
In 2014, Mr. Broadus represented me in a Family Law Case. I met him at a networking group and because I didn't have much money, he seemed like a great choice. Well, as they say, "you get what you pay for". The Judge in the case wrote an Illegal Order, that Mr. Broadus did not catch. After the illegal clause written by the Judge was triggered, allowing my Ex-wife to flee the state with my 5 daughters, the "30 days" had passed, meaning the ruling could not be contested. I am just now, 5 years later, able to muster the resources to sue Mr. Broadus for Malpractice. I would DEFINITELY steer clear of Mr. Broadus. He is very nice and personable, but unless you want to lose your case, your children and endure years of depression because of his incompetence, I would suggest someone else.
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19 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Broadus was hired to represent me in a custody matter. I hired Mr. Broadus thinking since he's been practicing as a family law attorney for several years that he would be competent in the area of family law. My experience was every thing short of a good one. Mr. Broadus case load is too high. He lacks effective communication. He lacks attention to detail and made me lack confidence in him as my counsel.
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17 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
My custody case went on for 2 years. In the last year, she never responded to my emails, but when she finally responded, it was to tell me she was no longer with the law firm. She quit while my case was still open. Left my case for someone else in the firm and he wanted to withdraw from my case and did so. So now I'm stuck waiting for a final trial. Wasted money and my goals of getting my child were not reached.
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20 May, 2012 by Anonymous
this lawyer took a family law case for me she was a friend of my fathers i guess, thats how i was introduced the whole entire time she represented me she was trying for my fathers best intrest and not me and my kids intrest but to make a long story short the higher court reversed&remanded the entire decision i won my appeal and they told me to contact her they sent her all my info about the appeal ive called her several times and she has yet to respond this is bad business.
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01 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Hired him and lost almost everything. I've spent the last six months trying to recover from the bad advice he gave. He is very sweet but sweet is NOT a characteristic you want in an attorney. My mistake was not listening to my gut. Instead, I trusted and believe in him.
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21 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Greg Jones is the text book definition of a scam artist and over-privileged chump of an attorney. Exceptionally hard to get a hold of, rude, inconsiderate, and has more family problems of his own..especially with his older kid. NEVER use him or ANYONE from his ridiculously unprofessional firm.
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20 Jun, 2023 by Faith
This incompetent attorney NEVER file my personal injury claim and I lost my claim despite the fact that I kept calling his supposed office, that he doesn't even have.
This attorney is been involved in multiple and ilegal activities among them are fraud, racketeering, sexual molestation of minors etc.
The reason it everything can be found its that he interchange his last names.
His daughter a lesbian woman also has multiple aliases. Sofi Rosado, Noemi Rosado, Sofi Quiles etc.. and the list go on. She gets her girlfriend Trisha to write reviews and creates fictitious email to do good review all false.
His secretary (daughter) is involve in multiple fraud cases with him.
Recently he was sanction by Florida Bar Association. You can see did by looking for Edward Serrano Rosado.
This attorney is a Sexual predator of minor.
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26 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
My experience with RFS and Mark
I attempted to purchase a bread route business through routesforsale.net. I gave them a deposit of $16,000.00 The purchase was contingent on obtaining financing. I tried with my bank, financial brokers and the sellers in house company purchase option. Didn't get approved. So I requested my deposit back.
The agreement I signed stated that if there was a dispute between the seller and myself, that we had to go to arbitration. I reviewed the contract with my local attorney. I had every right to get my money back. I can provide all proof that I fulfilled all my duties as a buyer. Traveling to Wisconsin, training, applied for financing etc etc. I can even provide that the broker informed me that I WOULD get my deposit back if I couldn't get the purchase financed. I reviewed these events at arbitration. However the arbitrator Mark Aubin decided to go against the contract. For reasons unknown and reasons that can not be provided.
I have spoken to several Tampa attorneys. They all say that this was WRONG. I even ran the matter by a retired judge in the area Judge G.H. They all agree this is wrong and harmful. This is why I am advising people to not sign a contract with an arbitration clause. Even if you are legally in the right they can get you. This cost me 16k and neither the arbitrator or broker would stand up and provide a reason for the ruling. I even agreed that I would move on if they could give me a reason for the outcome. They could NOT. They are not legal bound to refuse the reason. “Good arbitration should provide a reason for the ruling” came as the words from every lawyer that I've spoken to.
I did notice that the broker and seller tried twisting the idea that I “no longer wished to purchase the business” which if true would be fine, but I COULDN'T get it financed and under the purchase agreement in section 4 I should have been covered.
This has caused a great amount of suffering in my family. To get back the stolen deposit back that was LEGALLY ours we now have to spend money to get it back. Absolutely insane.
Stay away from brokers in which you can buy a business yourself and stay away from arbitration!
I now have less than 90 days to fight this matter under FL law, but the fact that I have to is crazy.
I say the broker and arbitrator should get together on providing a reason for the ruling. I WOULD move on. If not vacating the award is my best shot and providing all evidence that I can.
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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.
