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20 Reviews
20 Apr, 2023 by Eric
Her first met Gary in 2007 had to work accident. Gary and I talked and he made it very clear. I will do the best and only the best that I can. If you want quick money go to another lawyer that will just give you anything I will fight for you this is my job. I believe in Gary I believe in the stop paralegals everyone there in the office is professional. I had to go back to Gary in 2020 to being run over . And again Gary and his staff did top notch work I believe them I trust him did not let me down. Thank you thank you again.
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20 Sep, 2022 by Catherine
Over the course of 4+ years, Gary and his team have provided me with honesty/transparency, patience (I ask a LOT of questions)?and easy to understand information in layperson’s terms. As this was my first involvement in a legal process, initially I was concerned as to how my work injury would impact my personal and professional life. Every time I felt uncertainty, as new proceedings emerged, Gary and Paralegal Kelle promptly returned my calls/emails. I was always treated with respect, honesty and professionalism.
My interactions were mostly with Paralegal Kelle, who was always eager to guide me through legal jargon. Gary and his staff made sure that I was taken care of, and thus, my anxiety level would be brought back down. Gary’s team “battled” through any hiccups, and issues from the Defense. Their goal was my goal: ensuring that I received a favorable settlement (which I did, thank you all!).
If you’re in need of legal help, this professional, knowledgeable legal team… look no further.
It has been a long legal journey since I first met Gary in 2018, and I am extremely grateful for all of their assistance and support, as they eased my mind and I was able to sleep at night. High praise for this law firm!
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10 Aug, 2022 by William
If you're looking for an exceptional accident attorney -- look no further. Gary Nitsche can be your lawyer. If you want honesty, integrity, accessibility, a 2-way communicator, and an evidence-based attorney, Gary Nitsche should be your lawyer. If you are looking for justice, fairness and an exceptional negotiator, Gary Nitsche ought to be your lawyer.
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26 Jan, 2021 by Timothy lee
I was hurt on the job and was getting no where and needed
help. I emailed The Freibott Firm and Fred called back immediately and I told him my story. We set up a meeting at the Lewes office and I met Dennis Mason (one of his lawyers)and he told me they had it. I have had 2 back surgeries and they still have my back and would recommend this Firm to anyone in need.
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24 Dec, 2020 by Timothy
I was hurt at work and was getting no where and we decided to get a attorney. I was shocked as I emailed Fred and he called me in minutes and made a appointment with his associate Dennis Mason so after the meeting with him he told me they had it and they did. I can say I had a ton of questions and they answered all. I would recommend Fred Friebott and his firm to anyone
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16 May, 2018 by Kev
The Best Injury attorney in the state of Delaware. Hands Down. Workers compensation and serious accident injuries. Super nice people working there.
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09 Feb, 2023 by Renee
I used AVVO to find Adam and read all of his reviews. Everyone spoke very highly of his results. I had been shopping around for an attorney who would take on a civil suit matter for my small business and all of the other attorneys seemed to have little interest or seemed to speak in a manner where it appeared my situation was pointless. Adam listened to my circumstances related to my potential case and took off like a rocket to resolve the issue. He was professional, efficient, and available for my business needs. He was able to provide results that were beyond my expectations. I am grateful to have had this experience with him and look forward to future business ventures with him.
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13 Aug, 2022 by Susan
I hired Adam because my insurance company, which was the same company that insured the party responsible for the flooding of my condominium, refused to pay for damages. Adam was always professional, very responsive (always on top of things & returned all communications promptly). Adam is very knowledgeable regarding the laws applicable to my case; I was quite comfortable relying on his expertise. Mr. Wasserman was able to negotiate a reasonable settlement without going to court. I am so grateful to have found Adam Wasserman & I highly recommend him for your legal needs.
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22 Jul, 2022 by Monica
I had trouble finding a lawyer to help me until I found Adam through the Delaware State Bar Association website. His office contacted me within 24 hours, and Adam was available within a couple of days. He was patient and attentive in hearing about my case, explained options in easy to understand terms, and the final outcome was better than I expected, and extremely quick. I am definitely going to recommend Adam to everyone and wouldn’t hesitate to use him again. Thank you, Adam!
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16 Jul, 2021 by Nama
He is very professional, explained everything thing that needed to be explained. He made me feel comfortable. I love his office environment!! He’s the best and I highly recommend him to anyone who needs a lawyer. Very kind and easy to work with.
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17 Jul, 2019 by Randall
I was given David Cline's number for an auto accident through a family friend (who highly recommended him). From the first moment that I spoke with, I knew that I wanted him to represent me for my auto claim. He is extremely knowledgeable in what
he does! Once I hired him, he never gave me any problems with answering questions, calls, emails or anything at all. He was able to get everything that I needed done accurately and in a timely manner. He handled my auto case in its entirety. I would definitely recommend him to anyone in need of an auto accident / injury lawyer!
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25 Jun, 2019 by Zach
From day one he helped me an my girlfriend out with our accident took care of everything for us helped me get paid for missed work right away. I can confidently say for both me and my girlfriend we are very happy with his service
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24 Jun, 2022 by Dmytro
Tiffany has handled my auto claim case and negotiations with insurance carrier.
Case finally settled well.
Highly recommended
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07 Mar, 2022 by Camille
Tiffany Shrenk, Esq. represented me in a personal injury lawsuit and exceeded my expectations! She and her support staff were amazing to work with and made me feel secure throughout the entire process. They always communicated clearly with me, answered any questions I had, and kept it honest about the potential outcomes in my case. Thanks to Tiffany Shrenk, Esq. and her team, I made it through one of the most difficult times I’ve ever faced and made out very well in the settlement.
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11 Jan, 2021 by Brian
Tiffany treated us with respect, patience and diligence from the first time we spoke. She was honest about the timetable, the cost and what would be required from us. All of which came in UNDER her initial estimates. She was courteous, encouraging and very empathetic. She was our Lawyer, now she’s our Friend. Would recommend her wholeheartedly!!
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23 Aug, 2015 by Nicole
I hired larry after I was in a car crash, he was a winner, a lot of my friends didn't think id get much, but larry was on top of everything, I really didn't even do much , larry and his paralegal handled most of it. If im ever injured again, im making a call right back to larry ramunno
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16 Jun, 2015 by Bill
I have a lot of friends and family that have had car injury claims, and they told me about a lot of different lawyers, but many of them were encouraging me to hire Larry Ramunno, I called his office and was impressed he talked to me and was so down to earth and nice. I signed up, and he and his staff and paralegals and investigator were terrific, they were so nice to me, when money was tight they helped me get loans from a loan company, and after I had a bunch of visits with a chiropractor, and some specialists, like a neurologist , I was still in pain, but larry ramunno got me way mor e than I expected, he got me more than I was expecting and he was aggressive with the stupid insurance company, there first offer was good, but larry said, hold on, its not high enough, let s sue and it'll go up, we filed suit, he did all the work on the suit, and a few months later, the offer was up even higher, I never had to go to trial or anything like that. larry is great , he's the best lawyer in town in my opinion. and his staff is terrific.
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31 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
I was in a car accident, at first I wasn't gonna try to make a claim. Then I found larry, he made sure the car insurance paid all my medical bills and after I went to some doctors and therapy for about nine months, larry got me way way more money than what people was telling me my case was worth. If im in another accident im calling larry ramunno right away.
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28 Apr, 2015 by Paul
After having an auto accident driving home with my family after a business meeting, I had no idea how much time and medical intervention would be required. I found quickly I needed support from the medical bills and guidance of what to do after getting hurt. Mr. Lengkeek and his assistant Kerry were an outstanding team that treated me with respect and stood by me, helping and guiding me the entire duration. Tim and Kerry gained my respect very quickly. They were fast and proactive always working on getting the bills paid and assisting me when I needed direction. Tim's unique knowledge base provided me with information that was required from understanding surgeries to dealing with insurance companies and the like. Kerry provided me with weekly if not daily interactions to keep me in the loop. This made not only me feel comfortable but also my family. They were/are truly my partner helping me step by step. The settlement outcome was much more then anticipated and was simply due to the dedication and hard working team of Mr. Lengkeek. I am completely satisfied with the outcome and I would highly recommend Tim to anyone who wants full commitment and to get the job done with a personal touch. A truly pleasant experience considering the medical inventions I had to undertake. I was not just a customer, I was a VIP.
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15 Oct, 2014 by Shocka
Mr. Lengkeek blew the defense out of the water. He was well prepared and had a answer to what ever they came up with. I recommend him 100 out of 100. I am glad I used him for my case. we won more that I expected.
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08 Oct, 2014 by Clare
I met Tim Lenkgkeek at the end of 2009. I had been in a car accident on 1-22-09. My PIP had run out and I had to begin to use my personal health insurance just after being at Magee Brain Rehab for 12 days. The auto insurance companies were not backing down but a friend sent me a video of me 3 months before the accident. Tim sent it to the person who hit me insurance company and to my insurance company and had our deserved compensation in 30 days. He is always on top of the ball.
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24 Feb, 2016 by Lillian
Bayard Marin came to me highly recommended and I wasn't disappointed. Bayard is very knowledgeable and walked me through the legal process step by step. If you are searching for an personal injury lawyer that has your best interests in mind, I recommend Bayard Marin. He is a excellent attorney that will fight for you.
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11 Feb, 2016 by Barbara
My husband was the one who forced me to go and talk with Bayard. After working with him and his staff through this process I am thankful that I went to see him. Bayard is very professional and was comfortable to work with. It was nice that they handled all the correspondence with the insurance company which was a weight off my shoulder. I would highly recommend him to anyone!
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02 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
This was a worry-free experience. Mr. Marin made me feel relaxed confident in his expertise. I am very satisfied with the outcome of my legal matter.
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16 Mar, 2018 by Hidayet agaoglu
25 Feb, 2016 by Allen
In my complex social security disability case, which involved international totalization law, I talked to many attorneys but by far David J Lyons Esq was the very best. There is no way I could have won my case without him. In fact, he won my case two (2) times as the first time the judge made a legal error so we had to go through it all again with a second hearing and he won it all again to get full SSDI benefits for me. Prior to each hearing, I could see that he over prepared and had accurately covered all angles of the case and knew all of the evidence very well. I highly recommend David J Lyons Esq as a social security disability attorney for anyone who has a genuine disability claim.
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25 Nov, 2015 by Rick
I was injured in a slip and fall accident. Mr. Lyons took care of me from the very first day we spoke. Not only did I get all my medical fees taken care of, I also got a settlement that helped get me back on my feet. He's a Great Lawyer who obviously cares about his clients.
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12 Aug, 2019 by William clough
22 Mar, 2019 by Jon zack
Adam is not only a great lawyer, he is a good person as well. He handled our litigation with professionalism and vigor. I highly recommend him.
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07 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Although he has changed law firms recently, he's the best lawyer in his specialty. My family hired him for a personal injury lawsuit. What I liked is that he is easy to communicate with and takes my questions seriously and is not condescending. When possible he would get right on the phone with me or give me a very prompt call back. I also really appreciated that my lawsuit wasn't put on a back burner. He took the case by the horns and did everything that could be done, given the unique set of circumstances. Still, he left no stone unturned and I couldnt ask for more than that.
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09 Jan, 2015 by Robert
Jeannie got me a big settlement for my case. I was injured and out of work. Jeannie helped me out if time. I could not believe it. She got me more than I thought I was going to get and more than other attorneys told me they could get me. She got me my just due compensation for my injuries.
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20 Aug, 2014 by Lisa
I heard about Jeannie through a friend whom she won a big case for, so I decided to meet her and see if she would be interested in representing me. After meeting with Jeannie I was very impressed. I decided to retain her. It was a long tough battle, but Jeannie achieved a big settlement in my favor. I could not be happier with her work. I would definitely recommend Jeannie to anyone who need a lawyer.
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14 Aug, 2014 by Jenny b.
Jeannie worked a personal injury case for me. I was injured in a car accident and sustained several severe injuries. Jeannie landed me a six-figure settlement. I could not have been more happy with Jeannie's services. She answered every question that I had and made sure that I was always kept on notice with what was happening in my case. Jeannie is definitely a zealous advocate for her clients. I would highly suggest Jeannie. In fact, I have recommended her to several friends and family members, one of which was my husband. She helped my husband with a workers comp issue and again we could not be happier!!! Thx Jeannie!!
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26 Jul, 2022 by Anthony
BEST LAWYER IN DELAWARE!
I had Mr. Al Greto represent me in a major conviction charge for speeding and reckless driving. He was able to have my points lowered from 11 to 2 and my fine from over $400 to just only $125. He knows who to talk to and how to get the job done. I would highly recommend Al Greto Law to represent you.
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11 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Quit response assist me with legal matters first time home buyer. Showed concern protecting my legal rights. Very comfortable knowing im well protected with out any worries. Be advise Albert the best lawyer in Delaware, Pennsylvania if you in need of help look for Greto Law. He will solve any problems that come forth to you with a tactful and swift professional style.
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10 Oct, 2018 by James
Had an excellent experience with this man. I talk to a few other lawyers, none seemed enthusiastic about my case and representing me. From the first time I talked to Al he drove right into my case. He was aggresive, confident and resourceful. Highly recommended !
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16 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Pete was very easy to work with and gave you every scenario that could happen. He was thorough and did his research for my case. Good communication and great relationship.
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21 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I received top notch service from Mr. Jones and his staff. They were very helpful, attentive, and understanding. Mr. Jones won my case for me and I am forever grateful for what he did for my family!
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14 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
I appreciate the excellent efforts and the personal attention Mr. Grayson gave my case from the first interview through conclusion. He negotiated a great settlement.
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18 Sep, 2012 by Michael
Mr. Grayson handled my accident case. He was polite, professional, kept me fully informed about the case and advised me every step of the way including thouroughly preparing me for every phase of the litigation. He obtained a result that exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend him and would certainly use his sevices again. I liked him and his staff and trusted him completely.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Jason
Don came highly recommended by a friend and didn't disappoint. He spent the time to understand all my issues and concerns and provide superb legal advice on every point to help negotiate my settlement. Highly competent and professional, it was pleasure working with him. Thank you Don!
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24 Mar, 2021 by Kimberly
Mr. Ransom was truly a blessing for my family and myself. I was trying to handle things myself without much success. A friend suggested I talk to Mr. Ransom. I was extremely glad I did. I didn’t realize how much I didn’t know about the law. Mr. Ransom was easy to talk to and explained what he could do for me. He and his staff couldn’t have been easier to work with. I was so happy with the outcome and it was totally due to Mr. Ransoms knowledge of the law and his hard work. I would highly recommend Mr.Ransom to everyone
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25 Mar, 2021 by Mark
We all hope we never need an attorney, I never thought I would. Fortunately I was able to be represented by Vince Hedrick for my case. I can’t say enough about the level of competence, attention to detail, communication, and the personal care for my situation. No matter what phone call or piece of mail I received, medical institutions, doctors or my work Human Resources, Vince was responding. I felt very confident that all my needs were taken care of. If you find your in need of representation, I highly recommend Vince and his team.
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25 Jan, 2015 by Frank
Vincent worked very hard to win my case. He is tenacious and gathers all the facts and does his absolute best. I always felt like my case was a top priority for him. I never had to call him for an update, because he always contacted me first with an update. If you want a lawyer that puts you and your case first, please contact Vincent.
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25 Sep, 2019 by Dana
I consult with Melissa on a regular basis regarding her insurance defense practice as it relates to much of the contract and liability issues that come up in my field of work. Melissa is incredibly astute, experienced and has a wealth of knowledge in all facets of insurance law and contract litigation. She is very professional and has an excellent "bed side" manner. I highly recommend this attorney.
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25 Sep, 2019 by Ed
I have referred over 50 of my clients to her over the past 8+ years for will/living wills/power of attorney, trusts, and other legal documents. She always does a great job, and my clients enjoy her wonderful personality and understanding.
Also, I have sent some of my business owner clients for legal documents, contract reviews, incorporation, and buy/sell arrangements.
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06 Jun, 2018 by Rose
Martin Knepper is wonderful. He helped us, with what we would call, a complex personal injury suit that evolved from a serious car accident on Route 95 in Delaware (we were hit by a truck). Unlike other lawyers that I interviewed, and one that I fired, he had a lot of knowledge, and expertise, that other attorneys we had spoken with didn't have.
His negotiation skills, his professionalism, his knowledge, and his fortitude allowed us to succeed in settling our case, in what we considered a fair settlement. A case that involved drivers and companies from multiple states.
This is what distinguishes Martin Knepper from the rest of them. He had knowledge and expertise that other personal injury attorneys did not. I would hire him again, without any hesitation. We are very grateful we found him. We are thrilled with the wonderful job he did.
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18 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
He explained to me all that was necessary to know and gave me clarity on how to proceed
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08 Apr, 2015 by Lekeisha
I used Mr. Potter twice for auto mobile accidents I was in. Both times he was extremely forth coming with all the information and data he received in reference to my case. I always felt like he was on my side and looking out for my well being. I would always get a call back directly from him (not a paralegal) when I called with serious questions. He made sure I was financially compensated for my injuries. I would surely reccomend him to anyone! Simply put - I believe he was and amazing attorney. I would rehire him if ever I need an attorney.
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20 Jul, 2015 by Doug
Roger represented me for two motor vehicle accidents, and my wife on another. Roger has a reputation as one of the best, and in our experiences, it's well-deserved. He communicated with us in easy to understand terms every step of the way, kept us updated, and I'm confident we received maximum fair value for our claims. Roger's paralegal Mr. Hyde was extremely knowledgeable and helpful, too, and helped us navigate the stressful and confusing world of lawsuits and litigation. We've since referred numerous friends to Roger.
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31 May, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Pasquale has handled several issues for me. The sale of my house, my divorce, purchase of a second house and a contract issue. He is the person I go to when there is something I cannot handle myself. He is very thorough, knowledgeable and always returns my calls.
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12 Sep, 2012 by Steve k.
I was hit broad side, after another driver ran the red light. I thought to myself, I'm not going to hire an Attorney. I'm sure my Insurance company will take care of everything. I was given a real dose of reality when the bills started coming in, and their insurance company refused to pay! I began interviewing Attorneys. I spoke to six different Attorneys till I found "The one" guy that I felt would do a great job representing me. That "Guy" is Mr. Jim Erisman. He is genuine, an very professional, yet he takes the time to walk you thru, and explain each, and every step of the legal process. After I had ask him to represent me, he immediately stopped the nasty calls from the bill collectors. Then he called their Insurance company, and made them realize that THEY are responsible for the small mountain of bills that I am receiving. Almost Immediately I felt that I hired the right Attorney. An Attorney is only as good as the hard working staff in his office. Mr. Erisman works with a fantastic staff. When you have Mr. Erisman in your corner, you feel like you are his only client! When the time came for the case to go to court, Jim made sure that I was prepared, and fully understood the legal process. He made one promise......That he would be honest, and represent me 100%. What more could anyone ask for? In the end, the outcome was very successful. All my bills were paid, my credit remained intact, and I was properly compensated. The Insurance company has been through this a million times. They have a team of Attorneys. They don't care about you. Your just a statistic. Get an Attorney that will fight for you. Get an Attorney that really cares about you, and your unique situation. Give Jim Erisman a call. Make an appointment. I am sure you will feel very confident that you have chosen the best.
Best Regards,
Steve Kledaras
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15 Mar, 2017 by Michelle
I have bee working with Matt for 2 years. Matt is the best. He has answered all my questions, replied to all of my emails and when I needed to come and sit down with him he makes time. Matt will give it to you straight. I will choose Matt every time God forbids that I get into another accident. I would also like to add that Elizabeth Palmatary is also the best. She also will reply to all emails and phone calls.
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10 Feb, 2024 by Curtis
I will recommend Anyone that I know to deal with him he's definitely not selfish. He's very reasonable and his communication is Great and Very respectful..
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08 Jan, 2015 by Patrick
I had a work related injury and needed advise on all the paperwork at hand, so I contacted Beverly for advise. Beverly meet with me promptly and before I knew it she took the matter in her hands and let's just say i was a very satisfied client!
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19 Jun, 2019 by Jessa
I was very satisfied the way Cynthia handled our case. She is very professional, funny, and down to earth. I would recommend her.
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31 Jul, 2017 by Andres
I hired Ms. Wolf after visiting a few lawyers in Wilmington. What made the difference and gained my trust was her vast knowledge of the law and her honesty about the possible outcomes of my worker's compensation claim. Ms. Wolf first referred me to the best specialist for my type of injury in Wilmington, then she went above and beyond her duty to make sure I was well taken care of financially throughout the legal process and finally she made sure that my well-being and permanent injury were well reflected in settlement.
If you want a lawyer with expansive knowledge of worker's compensation law, that will not seek a quick settlement, and is always 2 steps ahead of opposing counsel and insurance companies then Ms. Wolf is what you are looking for.
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23 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Worked extremely well for my family in a very difficult situation and handled the problem totally professionally and the outcome was far better than we had ever hoped for.
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04 Feb, 2021 by Bxo bxo
If they can protect the Biden family and Smartmatic....they can protect anyone !
You get what you pay for!
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03 Dec, 2019 by Ray britt
Food is good
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22 Sep, 2019 by David krueger
12 Aug, 2019 by William clough
22 Mar, 2019 by Jon zack
Adam is not only a great lawyer, he is a good person as well. He handled our litigation with professionalism and vigor. I highly recommend him.
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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.
