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19 Jan, 2024 by Simba ghulais
11 May, 2023 by William berlin
10 Aug, 2022 by Rich brooks
20 Jun, 2023 by Ana menkshi
11 Mar, 2022 by John doe
22 Jan, 2014 by Jt
I have worked with Dan Chapman and the Troy Law Firm for nearly 20 years. My experience with them has been very pleasant and professional. Dan has handled many personal & business contracts as well as my estate planning. In all my past experiences, we have gotten down to business quickly, effectively and keeping costs at a minimum. My bills are fair and I usually know a rough idea of my costs before any projects begin. Perhaps the best thing I can say about this firm is that they bring ideas to the table. Being a small business owner, I don't know what I don't know.... The Troy Law Firm is a nice "safety net" for us.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Nicholas salem
24 Dec, 2024 by Daniel omambo
18 Dec, 2024 by Paul bathanti
Called and tried getting an appointment to sit down with someone, discuss my.issues and was told they don't do that unless I pay $450 just to speak with someone for about 20 minutes. Absolutely ridiculous
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08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
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08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
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31 Jan, 2025 by Matthew ziskie
I would not at all recommend anyone to their Family Law attorneys. I was lied to many times, I got no results, and I was charged a lot of money.
That is my honest review of my experience.
Choose your family law attorney carefully.
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09 Oct, 2024 by It'snijahhh
Update: I initially posted a negative review about my experience with this lawyer, after which he contacted me and offered to finish my case for free in exchange for removing the review. He then scheduled a conference call to discuss the case but arrived late. After that day, I never heard from him again, despite reaching out multiple times. On the day of my court case, I had called him 15 times, but he did not respond. The court even tried to contact him without success, leaving me to proceed without legal representation. I feel deeply disappointed and let down, as I was left in uncertainty for so long.
Original review:
I feel like I completely wasted $5,000 on this lawyer. He took my case knowing from the start that we had very little chance of winning, but still pushed forward without any communication throughout the entire process. I rarely heard from him, and when he did show up, all he did was tell the judge we needed more time, which only led to another request for $3,000 for the next steps.
He was far from personable and seemed more interested in pleasing the opposing party.
Overall, the lack of communication, professionalism, and genuine effort on my behalf was extremely disappointing.
I would not recommend him to anyone seeking a reliable or competent attorney.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Chris shipley
Went through a tumultuous divorce with unnecessary conflict caused by opposing counsel. Matt Weaver helped me out tremendously and is a great compassionate lawyer.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Nicholas salem
24 Dec, 2024 by Daniel omambo
18 Dec, 2024 by Paul bathanti
Called and tried getting an appointment to sit down with someone, discuss my.issues and was told they don't do that unless I pay $450 just to speak with someone for about 20 minutes. Absolutely ridiculous
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24 Dec, 2024 by Nicholas salem
24 Dec, 2024 by Daniel omambo
18 Dec, 2024 by Paul bathanti
Called and tried getting an appointment to sit down with someone, discuss my.issues and was told they don't do that unless I pay $450 just to speak with someone for about 20 minutes. Absolutely ridiculous
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08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
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08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
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08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
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08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
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08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
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08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
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08 May, 2024 by Mike white
06 Jan, 2023 by Tom meerschaert
Efficient and knowledgeable.
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26 Oct, 2019 by Adam gordon
Only call us if you want to win.....
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31 Jan, 2025 by Matthew ziskie
I would not at all recommend anyone to their Family Law attorneys. I was lied to many times, I got no results, and I was charged a lot of money.
That is my honest review of my experience.
Choose your family law attorney carefully.
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09 Oct, 2024 by It'snijahhh
Update: I initially posted a negative review about my experience with this lawyer, after which he contacted me and offered to finish my case for free in exchange for removing the review. He then scheduled a conference call to discuss the case but arrived late. After that day, I never heard from him again, despite reaching out multiple times. On the day of my court case, I had called him 15 times, but he did not respond. The court even tried to contact him without success, leaving me to proceed without legal representation. I feel deeply disappointed and let down, as I was left in uncertainty for so long.
Original review:
I feel like I completely wasted $5,000 on this lawyer. He took my case knowing from the start that we had very little chance of winning, but still pushed forward without any communication throughout the entire process. I rarely heard from him, and when he did show up, all he did was tell the judge we needed more time, which only led to another request for $3,000 for the next steps.
He was far from personable and seemed more interested in pleasing the opposing party.
Overall, the lack of communication, professionalism, and genuine effort on my behalf was extremely disappointing.
I would not recommend him to anyone seeking a reliable or competent attorney.
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Chris shipley
Went through a tumultuous divorce with unnecessary conflict caused by opposing counsel. Matt Weaver helped me out tremendously and is a great compassionate lawyer.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Amy walker
Joe and Barbara were outstanding! I hired them to help me with my sister's estate. She did not have a will and I needed to go through probate. She also had a ton of outstanding debt. They helped me walk through all the steps of selling her house, her car, settling her debts and closing the estate. They did it in a timely fashion with compassion. It was MUCH easier than I thought it would be- because of their help! Thank you Barbara and Joe!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Hunter kosnik
10 Jul, 2024 by Ronald
Recently I reported bad news about kemp klein law firm. Things have improved and I am happier with the services provided giving the circumstances involved. They are doing well good with my money and I want it to stay that way. Thanks sorry for any misunderstanding.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Ekimenarc
This law firm employs an outstanding attorney named Rachel Dornbush. She is articulate, effective and qualified in her particular area of practice. Her tenacity is only exceeded by her expertise and ethical professionalism. If you're in need of an attorney with skill and knowledge of landlord representation (and more), Ms. Dornbush is a great choice.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Ron simoncini
there is far more to the Paletz practice than its extraordinary success at landlord-tenant law: there is the commitment and passion that Matthew Paletz brings not just to the matters, but to a fundamental belief in property rights. He has a classic American perspective on private property that should be a standard value for everyone but has faded in recent years. Mr. Paletz carries a critical flag and I feel relieved that he has the energy and the knowledge to keep the courts and the policy makers honest.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Old orchard
Matt Paletz and staff are outstanding professional. I can’t speak enough about them.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Swat sud
Mark Schwartz has been diligently on the top of the issues relating to the case and kept me informed all along. He was doing the right things from beginning till the end. He was honest, very caring and emphatic during my recovery. He was always concerned about me getting better and get right treatment after the auto accident injuries.
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22 Mar, 2022 by Matt schultz
I was referred to this office through another larger firm. I left multiple voicemails and no one ever bothered to contact me back. I wasted three weeks of my time trying to get in contact with them.
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20 Sep, 2021 by Dennis l hopkins
In October 2019 I had to sue my local airport manager and airport board for an egregious violation of my First Amendment rights when they wrongfully evicted me from my airplane hangar after I criticized the management of the airport. Aviation attorney Mark Schwartz was referred by a close friend of mine, also a satisfied client. Mark provided exceptional legal representation resulting in not only a significant monetary settlement, but also forced the airport to agree to that they would not enforce any further “at will” termination provisions in other airport tenants’ leases. Helping me celebrate moving into my "new" hangar in October 2020 was my flying buddy and granddaughter! If a client has aviation issues to be adjudicated, Mark Schwartz is the attorney to call!!
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25 Jul, 2023 by Swat sud
Mark Schwartz has been diligently on the top of the issues relating to the case and kept me informed all along. He was doing the right things from beginning till the end. He was honest, very caring and emphatic during my recovery. He was always concerned about me getting better and get right treatment after the auto accident injuries.
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22 Mar, 2022 by Matt schultz
I was referred to this office through another larger firm. I left multiple voicemails and no one ever bothered to contact me back. I wasted three weeks of my time trying to get in contact with them.
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20 Sep, 2021 by Dennis l hopkins
In October 2019 I had to sue my local airport manager and airport board for an egregious violation of my First Amendment rights when they wrongfully evicted me from my airplane hangar after I criticized the management of the airport. Aviation attorney Mark Schwartz was referred by a close friend of mine, also a satisfied client. Mark provided exceptional legal representation resulting in not only a significant monetary settlement, but also forced the airport to agree to that they would not enforce any further “at will” termination provisions in other airport tenants’ leases. Helping me celebrate moving into my "new" hangar in October 2020 was my flying buddy and granddaughter! If a client has aviation issues to be adjudicated, Mark Schwartz is the attorney to call!!
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25 Jul, 2023 by Swat sud
Mark Schwartz has been diligently on the top of the issues relating to the case and kept me informed all along. He was doing the right things from beginning till the end. He was honest, very caring and emphatic during my recovery. He was always concerned about me getting better and get right treatment after the auto accident injuries.
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22 Mar, 2022 by Matt schultz
I was referred to this office through another larger firm. I left multiple voicemails and no one ever bothered to contact me back. I wasted three weeks of my time trying to get in contact with them.
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20 Sep, 2021 by Dennis l hopkins
In October 2019 I had to sue my local airport manager and airport board for an egregious violation of my First Amendment rights when they wrongfully evicted me from my airplane hangar after I criticized the management of the airport. Aviation attorney Mark Schwartz was referred by a close friend of mine, also a satisfied client. Mark provided exceptional legal representation resulting in not only a significant monetary settlement, but also forced the airport to agree to that they would not enforce any further “at will” termination provisions in other airport tenants’ leases. Helping me celebrate moving into my "new" hangar in October 2020 was my flying buddy and granddaughter! If a client has aviation issues to be adjudicated, Mark Schwartz is the attorney to call!!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Farhan hussain
Despite dismissing my case, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. I would advise others to be cautious when engaging with this firm.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Ahmed naeem
My case was dismissed but, my lawyer continued to charge me for their services. This lack of transparency and consideration for my situation was disappointing. Much more professional and transparent attorneys out there to work with. Avoid at all costs.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Jessica bryant
Your radio ad is tacky and very weird.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Whilst I was being represented by Ben Manson, i was repeatedly told he will throw out my case and tell the opposing attorneys to do whatever they see fit. Other than that, no issues.
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02 Sep, 2021 by Jim
The complaint about 17k is nonsense, designed solely by an abusive alcoholic to smear me. He was convicted of drunk driving twice, went to jail, got out, got drunk and assaulted his wife, who promptly filed for divorce before he went back to jail for 8 months for the assault and alcohol. He hired me before he went to jail. I received an agreed retainer fee, knowing the extensive time required to handle his case while he is in jail. I handled his divorce, custody and friend of the court matters, went to court hearings for him, visited him in jail and spoke with him by phone, kept the case alive so he could see his child when he got out of jail. I accomplished all that, filed pleadings when needed, basically spent 8-9 months handling his case while he sat in jail for alcohol and wife abuse. I successfully fought with court staff to preserve his parenting time, but when he finally was released from jail he didn’t like the very generous parenting time order from the court so he fired me. I sent him a final bill, all hourly rate as agreed. He used up the retainer and still owed 2.5k. Six months later he hadn’t paid, said he never got the bill, asked me to deliver a copy to his home that evening, I did so, he wouldn’t answer the door so I left it in a secure spot on his porch. He still wouldn’t pay. Just an angry and hostile alcoholic who refused to accept responsibility for his actions. I offered several times to meet with him and discuss his issues, but he refused. He complained to the state bar, who agreed with my performance and dismissed his complaint. He of course can write anything he wants in this website, but that doesn’t make it true.
Another complaint is the family friend who hired me to file her divorce, changed her mind, and a year later asked me again, sort of, then didn’t like the timing and the cost. I couldn’t make her happy no matter what I did. More dishonest and one-sided venting , misplaced frustration from an unhappy marriage and divorce. The state bar defended my actions.
I have never mishandled one penny of client funds in 45 years. The lady who claimed “con man” never once mentioned such with me, greatly appreciated my starting her divorce case quickly and without the customary fee, met me at my office twice, voluntarily paid additional fees months later and without being requested, and we talked often to make sure she was safe and protected legally snd financially. I later had an accident and was medically off of work for a few months, and then I suddenly learned she hired another attorney, which is her right, but then defamed me and said all sorts of uncalled for nasty things about me, name-calling, dishonest things, to the court. She never mentioned them to me, wouldn’t talk with me, just vented and attacked, without discussing any of her claims with me. She needed another attorney after I was disabled, but her attacks and name calling were dishonest.
I’ve been in practice for 45 years in all types of cases, and have a completely clean record with the State Bar. My clients virtually always become my long-term friends. Only recently, a few disgruntled divorce clients have decided to vent and attack me. With misplaced hostility. And at times to avoid paying their bills. Their complaints are unfounded, the State Bar complaints have been denied, and the fee obligations have been upheld in court.
I have provided a wide range of legal services for 45 years, with an impeccable reputation for legal service with kindness and efficiency, often with low fee rates. I’m disappointed by the recent baseless complaints written here, efforts to discuss the issues were denied, and this AVVO service does not demand honesty in their complaints.
The out of state people wanted a 5k service for 1.5k, I tried to help them but didn’t get it done timely, they accepted my work then wanted their money back. I did so, thus worked for free for them. I couldn’t make them happy.
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26 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I wish I would have seen the other reviews on this con man before I was suckered. I had the exact same experience with bogus medical excuses, adjourning things without even telling me, ripping me off and never sending one invoice, meeting with me at an office that was not his.
I am currently putting together a detailed report with specific dates to file with the Michigan Bar. I have something called integrity and I will not allow this person to continue to victimize innocent people.
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08 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Jim Williams represented me from Dec 2017 to Aug 2018 for legal divorce proceedings. He requested a retainer payment of $5000.00, which I paid through a colleague of his, since he did not accept credit card. I was referred to him by the same colleague. My situation was complicated, so Jim assured me his expertise, and requested additional money be added to the retainer in the amount of $10,000.00, which brings the total retainer sum to $15,000.00. I had to replace him in August 2018, because he had done nothing substantial, and almost had me placed in legal default to the initial divorce compliant. Fast forward to March 2019, Jim Williams never provided a breakdown of costs, and took advantage of my vulnerable position during a tumultuous divorce proceeding. During this time, Jim authored but 3 documents.
• Motion for Parenting Time.
• Response to initial divorce complaint, 5 months later.
• Response to a motion.
I was compelled to replace Mr. Williams for more responsive and dutiful legal divorce representation. On 4 separate occasions, in August 2018, September 2018, and February of 2019, I requested an invoice and breakdown of services, and wanted money back. No invoice of any kind had been received. After I notified Jim that he would be replaced, he stated he was owed additional money and an itemized bill would be forthcoming. He said, just pay the $2300, and an invoice could be provided later. He claimed I owed him money via text message, but did not substantiate amount. No further funds have been flowed in direction.
An update as of 3/8/19, Jim Williams, was informed that legal action would be pursued to his non-action, and was given a final attempt to reconcile. He provided an invoice the next day, and placed it onto my parent’s house behind a sign on the porch. This is the first and only invoice he provided. He asserts he sent one back in August 2018, when he was replaced. He now substantiates a bill for over $17K, which is erroneous, and I challenge his assertion of the time and effort placed in the breakdown of his bill. None of the discovery, interrogatories, or any substantial work was completed or even started. I had to hire another attorney to begin the real divorce work. Further, he is attempting to change the narrative that he sent the invoice in the past, claiming I am being dishonest with him. He back-dated his letters to fit his dishonest narrative. “Various phone calls, conference meetings” unsubstantiated line items are now in his invoice. They are nonsense and intellectually dishonest, claiming 3 or 4 hours of work for simple errands. Again, Mr. Williams composed 3 documents, and was given warning that if he did not reply to the original divorce complaint filed in Dec 2017, I would be placed in default. He finally responded five months after the original complaint. Moreover, Mr. Williams is prone to make cancellations and postponements due to convenient and likely bogus claims of ailing health issues, with multiple heart attacks, concussion, car accidents, funerals, as evidenced during the divorce proceeding as well as just recently when he was asked for a cost breakdown. The only motivation that apparently worked was the threat of legal recourse. I will be aggressively following up with the Grievance Board in Michigan with retained legal counsel.
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19 Jul, 2022 by Jason
I consulted with his office regarding status of my relationship with heather Atnip , and he lied to federal judge in Wisconsin ( lynn eddelman ) . Collusion also with heather atnip in relation to lies provided to federal judge …. I contacted places he requested my information, and will have that proof also , as it is part of those medical files he requested. Authorization I gave to him through my attorney, in which he provided to my providers , but stated to judge I did not authorize .. lies about discover attorneys did for 2 years , and colluded lies about my brain injury and ability to mentally function .
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13 May, 2023 by John
Mr Bowen is a very inexperienced lawyer that mismanaged my case. He gave away our leverage, made false statements to me, and he was surprised multiple times by our case. Stay away as he ford not know Rost he is doing.
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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.
