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11 Oct, 2024 by Melanee bruntjen
Kelly Was amazing! She was a force to be reckoned with in court! She succeeded getting the ruling we needed. Kelly and Her team held our hands through a very Complex process. Thank you Justice Law!
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17 Aug, 2024 by Victor ayala
Great service and amazing helpful staff, special thanks to Shawlee, who was patient and answered all the questions I had!!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Gali zuniga
Great office, I respect there professionalism and keen eye on detail. Shawlee was very helpful with all our questions.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Melanee bruntjen
Kelly Was amazing! She was a force to be reckoned with in court! She succeeded getting the ruling we needed. Kelly and Her team held our hands through a very Complex process. Thank you Justice Law!
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17 Aug, 2024 by Victor ayala
Great service and amazing helpful staff, special thanks to Shawlee, who was patient and answered all the questions I had!!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Gali zuniga
Great office, I respect there professionalism and keen eye on detail. Shawlee was very helpful with all our questions.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Melanee bruntjen
Kelly Was amazing! She was a force to be reckoned with in court! She succeeded getting the ruling we needed. Kelly and Her team held our hands through a very Complex process. Thank you Justice Law!
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17 Aug, 2024 by Victor ayala
Great service and amazing helpful staff, special thanks to Shawlee, who was patient and answered all the questions I had!!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Gali zuniga
Great office, I respect there professionalism and keen eye on detail. Shawlee was very helpful with all our questions.
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16 Feb, 2023 by Sherry orth
I called a couple of weeks after my accident. Met with Terry shortly after. Terry was great to work with and was looking out for my best interests. Hopefully I never have another PI but if I do I will not hesitate to call Terry Abeyta.
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26 Nov, 2022 by Julia
Terry and his firm are an exceptional group of people. Both him and Julie Burton were nothing but nice and helpful to me. Always made me feel comfortable and included me in all decisions. I would recommend Abeyta Nelson to friends and family.
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29 Aug, 2022 by Greg
I was in a horrible and violent head on car accident.My life was turned upside down my family endured hardships Financially ,physically and emotionally.With almost four years of seeking medical treatment being on and off work I always felt Terry Abeyta’s experience was working for me. Together we sought professional evaluations of my physical and mental health problems stemming from the horrific accident I was in (at no fault of my own).Because of Terrys abeytas experience I ended up with a best outcome settlement. I believe this is solely due to Terry abeytas experience, professionalism and devotion to getting his clients the outcomes they deserve…I will be forever grateful for the work Terry abeyta and his team at abeyta Nelson’s law firm did for my family and I.
I strongly recommend if anyone is ever injured in a accident to call abeyta Nelson,simply the best you can get
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07 Jul, 2023 by Zera
I never write reviews, but make an exception because David Abeyta and his law firm deserve an excellent review. My husband was the victim of a dog attack in 2022. We’ve lived in a quiet Ellensburg neighborhood for about 15 years and my husband uses a walker. When he exited our fenced area to our mailbox on the street, a neighbor’s dog came out of nowhere from behind, and threw my husband to the pavement, leaving him immobile with a broken pelvis and in extreme pain. He spent two weeks in the hospital and it took him a good six months to recover. We sought legal help from Abeyta Nelson, and David and his staff did an excellent job.
People sometimes think they can do everything themselves and don’t need a lawyer or think it will cost too much. But someone in an injury crisis may not have good judgment when upset and distracted. Good legal representation is needed and is well worth the cost of the services.
Insurance companies often pressure people to settle quickly for a low dollar amount, before the full extent of injury is known. Settling too quickly can be a serious mistake.
Here are the reasons I chose Abeyta Nelson to help us through this crisis to a good settlement figure:
1) When my husband was injured and in the hospital, I knew I was not in the right mental state to use good judgment;
2) I wanted specialized legal help from a law firm focusing on and current in this area of law with a good understanding of what a reasonable settlement should be;
3) The Abeyta Nelson firm specializes in personal injury.
4) The firm has an Ellensburg office, which made communications easier for me while caring for my injured spouse;
5) The firm has an excellent reputation and has secured many high-dollar settlements and judgments;
6) David and his staff were courteous and responded quickly to my calls;
7) David is very experienced in this area of law;
8) David personally visited with us several times, both on the phone and in person, including making trips to our home when needed;
9) David understands the administrative and legal complexities of working with insurance companies (including Medicare) and how long it takes to finalize billing;
10) David and his staff successfully interfaced with Medicare and our supplement provider to take the administrative burden off me while caring for my injured spouse – to me, that alone was worth the reasonable cost of the legal services;
11) I knew that if David could achieve a good settlement figure it would spare us the extra stress, uncertainty, time and expense (deducted from any judgment) involved with going to trial;
12) But I also knew that if the insurance company was unwilling to settle with a satisfactory sum, the firm is well known and respected, and David wouldn’t hesitate to take the matter to trial. Insurance companies know this too – they know they can’t manipulate the victim to a low settlement when dealing with a firm of the Abeyta Nelson reputation.
13) Having a lawyer represent us took the stress and pressure off me so I did not have to talk to the other party’s insurance representative, deal with insurance issues, or make difficult decisions without competent advice.
It took over a year during recovery working with David and his staff to finalize our case, but David secured a very attractive settlement. While one hopes never to be injured and need legal help, if you need competent, trustworthy, caring, experienced and respected legal representation, I highly recommend David Abeyta and his firm.
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15 Aug, 2022 by Lyle prescott
I was watching TV when an uninsured motorist crashed into my home. The car struck the chair I was sitting in. I was rendered unconscious and received whiplash and a serious concussion. My daughter contacted David Abeyta.
The driver was uninsured and I Truly didn’t expect any financial help, as I was renting and had no rental insurance.
David secured payment of the full amount of the uninsured motorist coverage of my car insurance.
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16 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
David and his team exceeded all of the expectations that I had. They took time to explain the how we were going to do things and why. They were very helpful during a tough time and made my life much easier. I would recommend David to anyone in the area.
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10 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend this office and Mr. Hamill. He did a great job on my case.
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01 Nov, 2019 by James
Mr. Hamill and his team were instrumental in fighting for my rights and winning on my behalf!
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05 Nov, 2018 by Edward
Dealing with L&I is never easy, it seems like a neverending nightmare. Having the support of Tim and his team who believed in me, made a world of difference in a very uncertain time. We were blessed when Rhonda was assigned to us. She is very informed and knowledgeable in dealing with L&I. I would highly reccomend this team to anyone in need of these services.
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08 Jul, 2022 by Amber
I highly recommend Megan Hale if you are in a car accident. I was rear ended with my 2 small children and used Megan Hale to represent my case. She was an outstanding attorney that worked hard to represent my children and myself with minimal work on my part. Megan had great communication and professionalism throughout the claim, she thoroughly explained everything she was doing to make it easy to understand. She showed compassion for our injuries and made sure we were compensated well and received all the medical care we needed to recover. She was very personable and easy to reach. We are extremely pleased with our outcome and are truly grateful for her help, we 100% recommend Megan to use as an accident attorney.
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06 May, 2017 by Julie
After my not-at-fault car accident I contacted Tamaki Law. Megan Hale took my case and I would absolutely recommend Megan to anyone needing an attorney. When you are vulnerable trust is important. Megan Hale had my back. She was thorough and her skills in dealing with insurance companies lead to a fair settlement. Megan and her staff treated me with kindness and their professionalism resulted in less stress for me personally so that I was able to focus on recovery from my injuries.
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21 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Megan Hale did a formidable job of defending me. She was very forthcoming with pertinent information as it became available, making a difficult process quite easy to navigate.
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05 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
My wife and I contacted John at Abeyta Nelson to assist us after we were involved in auto accident, December 2015. From the initial interview to our final conversation, John and his staff assisted my family in all facets. They were available to answer any question that we had during the process. We were appreciative that they were able to be our representative for all of the insurance or medical bill concerns. Finally, I was very appreciative of John's upfront communication. I would recommend his services if you were in need of a lawyer after an unexpected injury.
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12 Apr, 2016 by Robert shafer
I hired John to handle my case after feeling pressured by the other insurance company. John and his staff realized I had a case and worked with me through the whole process. Thank You.
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23 Mar, 2016 by Melissa
I hired John Kapuza following an MVA while I was very pregnant. The insurance company of the person at fault was difficult to work with and was refusing to pay for medical expenses and repairs to me vechicle. Hiring Mr. Kapuza made this process much easier and less stressful. I was able to access the medical care I needed and was able to have my vechile fixed quickly. Additionally, he was able to to sucessfully settle my case for the full limits of the insured's policy. I would highlt recommend him as an attorney.
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08 Mar, 2021 by Jason
Kevan is by far the best Attorney I have ever worked with. His knowledge of my case, communication and approach were simply fantastic. We won the case with zero resistance. I believe because of Kevan's ability to present the facts and proof needed. If you are looking for an Attorney, look no further!!
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18 Aug, 2020 by April
Without the help of Kevan Montoya I know that I would not have had the successfully outcome that was achieved. He took a very difficult situation and made sure that the truth was told and presently perfectly. He was a calm and confident presence during this difficult time for our family. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received from Mr. Montoya. I highly recommend this firm.
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09 May, 2019 by Lisa
I am a single mother who was involved in a car accident that was not my fault and overwhelmed with the insurance companies which were making demands I was not sure were in my best interest. It was a huge relief to meet Kevan Montoya and his team and hand off the mess to them! They got the paperwork and headache off me so I could concentrate on my family and my healing. Even my own insurance company wasn't looking out for me as Montoya Hinckley did! I honestly don't know what I would have done without their help. The resolution was beyond my expectation and I know that my little case really mattered to the entire staff. Kevan Montoya was highly responsive and reassuring that things were going to be ok and thanks to him and his tireless efforts on my behalf, they are.
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09 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Favian helped me get my DUI charges lowered to Wreck less Driving. Two years later it would come off my record and I'd be done with probation. He was fast and very professional.
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19 May, 2015 by Richard
Mr. Valencia helped me with my case after a car accident. He was able to get me the treatment I needed and a big settlement when my treatment concluded. He is someone who has your best interest in mind. I always recommend him to friends and family.
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19 May, 2015 by Maria
Family law can often be stressful but I believe I got the best experience thanks to my attorney's hard work and approachable nature. My Favian Valencia and his staff were extremely helpful through the entire process and when I didn't understand something, they were quick to explain the next steps so that I would not feel overwhelmed. Favian also got me benefits that I did not know I was entitled to. It was extremely helpful that he is fluent in Spanish and English so that when everyone sat down to talk, we did not need interpreters for my children. He is now helping me with a worker's compensation case and I have already seen great results.
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21 Dec, 2015 by Kipp
Honest, dependable, exceedingly bright, intelligent, reliable predictions and recommendations, superb case law research, tenacious pursuit for a client-oriented result tempered with pragmatism which ultimately prevailed in proving our cause and winning our case with the favorable result and vindication we sought. If we had lost the case my recommendation for Rob would be the same. I don't think anyone can ask for more in their representation.
Ours was not a simple process. We felt our position was morally and legally correct and therefore we were not willing to compromise or settle. Rob stuck with us. Our case lasted 6 1/2 years involving lower court and higher court rulings, summary judgments, higher court appeals, poor and mistaken lower court rulings, and ultimately higher court rulings rectifying the lower court errors. Rob's performance throughout was excellent in all venues revealing a thorough mastery of the law and competence in strategic preparation, planning, presentation, and higher court appeal processes.
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18 Aug, 2014 by Keith
I had a lengthy employment/non-compete case that went to trial and beyond, the other side was relentless...their flashy, big city attorneys tried everything (we won, every step of the way). Rob was always beyond prepared and could counter any attack like a well experienced professional. He does his homework and it shows. He also has a gift for crafting clever & logical analogies on the spot.
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10 Jan, 2013 by Dean
when he took our case he did not try to put a yes we will win spin but laid the facts out, told us we had a good chance of winning and the research he did for the case was phenomenal, he always kept us updated was always ready for court
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06 May, 2016 by Ahnalisa
I was in an auto accident and my entire world turned upside down. It was very difficult to get my medical care providers to take me seriously. After five months of asking for an MRI and being ignored, I hired Pickett law firm. One phone call later from them, it was scheduled. Bill and his team made me feel like they actually cared for me the person. Not just about getting paid. He helped me get a fair settlement and explained everything that was going on. He and his team always made me feel like I matter.
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25 Apr, 2016 by Glee
I HAVE BEEN TO BILL FOR 2 ISSUES. ONE WAS A FALL AT WALMART WHICH ANOTHER LAW FIRM PLAYED WITH FOR A YEAR AND THEN WOULDNT PROCEED. WITHIN A VERY SHORT TIME , BILL HAD A SETTLEMENT
THE SECOND WAS AN AUTO ACCIDENT AND WAS SETTLED WELL. HE IS A SMART CARING GUY!
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02 Mar, 2016 by Sarah m.
After l lost my job and suffered civil rights violations in the process, I was completely distraught as I had never had any sort of employment issue, ever. Mr. Pickett and his team went above and beyond to always make sure I was well taken care of, and that we were both on the same page. We ultimately ended up working out a settlement that was beneficial to all parties and it could not have been accomplished without Bill and his team. I am forever blessed and grateful to have had his assistance during what was the worst time in my entire life. I can't thank them enough. -Sarah
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12 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I have nothing bad to say about Jacob Lara. He helped me get my criminal case dismissed. Along the way he answered every question i ever had and was always very positive with me. I felt like he really loves his job and loves to help his clients to the best of his ability. I would recommend him to anybody needing help, he is by far one of the greatest lawyers i have ever had representing me.
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01 Dec, 2016 by Miguel de la mora
Jacob Lara helped me through the most difficult time I have ever experienced. He was very honest and direct with me and extremely responsive. He has an incredible ability to keep things in perspective. He is a man with strong values without being judgmental in anyway. He was so positive and knowledgeable from the first meeting until our last. We talked about the many options, and what would work for me and my case. I could not recommend anyone higher. Start to finish Jacob is a top lawyer and knows the law and is extraordinarily clever and how our judicial service works.
He stayed in touch with me throughout the trial and well after. Jacob deserves every bit of recognition he receives. There is no better mix of confidence and generosity. You will not find a better lawyer than Jacob Lara.
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29 Feb, 2016 by Martha
Very helpful, worked hard for me, and when I left his office I understood everything.
Always helpful with all of my questions and any time I Left a message for him he got back tho me right away.
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28 Aug, 2009 by Carol
Darrell is more than just my attorney, is my friend. With his help I would not have won my 10 year battle with WA State's workman's comp.
After an on the job injury in 1998, I developed a chronic pain condition known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome-(CRPS) Darrell believed me when I said the pain was REAL-not in my head, and he and his staff (Cossette N) helped me win my long battle! Darrell and I have knowon each other now some 15 years.
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21 Oct, 2012 by Ro
During the period in which he worked with me and my wife. Mr. Gill was very professional, kept us informed of all things, and kept us at ease, with no worries.
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14 Oct, 2017 by Susan
After two years of going around and around with the insurance company after my car accident, I hired Eric Reiersen to represent me. The endless phone calls, letters, and irritation from the insurance company were stopped. He handled everything and the claim was settled for three times what the insurance company offered. Best of all, Eric was kind, available and always helpful. I don't think you could find a better lawyer.
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19 Dec, 2021 by Dora
I truly appreciate James settling my case before the holidays. He went above and beyond keeping me informed on how my case was going. I was very impressed on how he litigated my case during the deposition. It requires a tough and knowledgeable lawyer to take a tough case like mine and I have to tell you, James is that tough lawyer that can take on any case no matter how difficult it might be. James believes and wants his clients to be compensated for their injuries. I want to thank James for taking my case and for all the hard work he put into it. Thank you James for my compensation. I recommend James to any one that needs a good, honest, and professional attorney.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Linda sellsted
Everyone at Montoya Hinckley was so very helpful during a difficult time. Kind, compassionate, always willing to explain and answer questions, but most importantly, they know their stuff.
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18 Jul, 2024 by April adkison
Without the help of Kevan Montoya I know that I would not have had the successfully outcome that was achieved. He took a very difficult situation and made sure that the truth was told and presently perfectly. He was a calm and confident presence during this difficult time for our family. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received from Mr. Montoya. I highly recommend this firm.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Lindsi powell
I had a great experience with the team at Montoya Hinckley! They were quick to call me regarding my inquiry! They definitely are a top notch group!
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07 Oct, 2023 by Lisa mungo
26 May, 2022 by Aaron lochridge
diligent kind caring problem solver
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25 May, 2022 by Silvia lisa
18 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Rodney & Janet handled my case very professional way which relieved me from stress on medical bills . Also very punctual when he gave me a specific time he would call me . Also when I emailed a question Janet would email me right away as well he definitely has a great team working hard for him . Will most definitely recommend Rodney Nelson to anyone that needs a attorney to fight for them .
Thank you Rodney Nelson !
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15 Jul, 2021 by Richard
I was severely injured in a trucking accident caused by a negligent Canadian truck driver and hired Rodney Nelson of a Abeyta Nelson to represent me in a lawsuit that we filed pertaining to the accident. After 3 and 1/2 years of legal jousting Mr Nelson was successfull in winning our lawsuit, and I couldn't ask for a more capable lawyer. I would recommend Rodney Nelson of Abeyta Nelson to anyone who has been injured and needs representation. They don't come any better!
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02 Feb, 2021 by Maria
Buen abogado muy amable y buen servicio me ayudó mucho . todos en el bufete son amables y mi representante legal habla español y siempre me explico todo con claridad . excelente bufete de abogados
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09 Apr, 2018 by Dennis
I was given his name after looking up workers comp. attorneys on the AVVO website. Unfortunately he doesn't handle workers comp. He was professional sounding and even made a helpful suggestion, even though I could not hire him. Thanks Bryan.
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27 Feb, 2015 by Michael
July 13th 2013 I was run over riding my Harley motorcycle. I went online to Tamaki Law the night I came home from the hospital to request a consultation and Bryan came out to my house to see me the next morning. My injury was severe. A trauma fracture of my left leg, requiring a metal rod screwed into my leg bone. That left me unable to walk on my own for almost a year. I had just started a new job with new insurance. Bryan protected me from creditors, helped keep my job and encouraged my own insurance company to stand up and take care of me while I was out of work for 13 weeks. This was the 1st time I had to have legal representation. I knew I needed it due to the seriousness of my accident. My family and I went through the toughest time in our history. The good thing is that we had Bryan to help us navigate through this ordeal. He put up with my ranting, frustrations and anger. All with personable and professional counsel.
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16 Jan, 2014 by Jason
Bryan was a fantastic attorney to work with. I had been involved in an automobile accident and had tried to handle everything by myself for the first couple of years. When things started to get complicated, I contacted Mr. Smith, because I had heard such fantastic things about him. They were all true. Bryan came into a situation that I had compromised on many different levels trying to handle it myself and was able to clean up my mess, get everything on track, handled everything in a very timely manner and got me a fantastic settlement that I never would have gotten by myself. Down to earth, normal guy that you can feel very comfortable speaking with. The epitome of professionalism and dedication to his clients.
You can't do any better that Mr. Bryan Smith
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09 May, 2018 by Allen
I have a paralegal degree and needed an attorney who understood the complications of being a grandparent and who sided with the ex-son-in-law against my daughter. Maggie handled the case with extreme professionalism and achieved the desired outcome of a very difficult time and situation. Ex-son-in-law was able to solidify his situation and prevent his daughter and our granddaughter from further mental abuse caused by my daughter and her recent boyfriend. Been around attorney's for a good share of my life and have to say Maggie was within the top one or two that was fully competent, understood the facts and dilemma that we faced and was able to achieve our desired goals. I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone and I am saddened to see her move to the other side of the mountains (to be closer to family!). Good luck in the future and never hesitate to call or get in touch with me if you ever need anything, Allen
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08 May, 2018 by Ryan
Maggie helped me fight to protect my daughter. She was honest, professional, knowledgeable and sincere. She helped me through a time in my life deal with something extremely tough. I was never blindsided by anything as Maggie was on top of everything. She the best and I’d recommend her to anyone!!!
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10 Mar, 2018 by Mike
I went to seek help to gain custody of my daughter. Being let down so many times in the past, I wasn’t very confident going in, but after meeting Maggie I felt as though I actually had a chance of winning. Not only was she easy to talk to, but she was extremely professional. She guided me along the way explaining all aspects of the legal jargon I didn’t understand. She is not only a great lawyer, but is a wonderful person to work with. Thank you for all your help! Highly recommended.
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27 Jul, 2024 by Sally brown
19 Jun, 2024 by Candy perez
Brett G and his legal assistant Lisa were amazing in helping me out with my case.
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12 Jun, 2024 by K george
Was just told they don't give free consultation, ONLY after I told receptionist all the specifics about my case!! Since when do receptionist make legal judgements over matters they have NO CLUE about? Too bad had an attorney had chance to hear my case I'd bet th farm on them wanting to take my case!!!
This is my official record of the event with his employee so she can't take my idea!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Jhonatan lopez
Mal servicio, las secretarías son muy despotas
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16 Jul, 2024 by Valerie herrera
Best legal team around!!!!
I feel like i got what was fair , such nice , respectful people!!
Definitely recommend and will continue to do so ! Thank you !
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14 Jun, 2024 by Denia lopez
I loved my experience
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27 Sep, 2024 by Erandi delgado
04 Feb, 2024 by Samantha webster
11 Nov, 2023 by Joslyn flores
Great attorneys to use for any business contracts. Highly recommend Jake Lara and Harley Montoya.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Jhonatan lopez
Mal servicio, las secretarías son muy despotas
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16 Jul, 2024 by Valerie herrera
Best legal team around!!!!
I feel like i got what was fair , such nice , respectful people!!
Definitely recommend and will continue to do so ! Thank you !
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14 Jun, 2024 by Denia lopez
I loved my experience
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11 Nov, 2021 by Aunisa craig
11 Nov, 2021 by Aunisa stroklund
Tim Carlson has over 40 years of business litigation experience. He's amazing in court and well respected in the community.
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17 Oct, 2021 by Rolling hills csd gm
When I originally called looking for probate services I was told an estimate of $2500-3000 to handle the simple estate of my father in law. I was told it would be completed in approximately six months. After $4300 and over a year we are finally done. It was apparent that we were the small cog and were told repeatedly Tim was in court for another client. When I would call to check status after nothing happening we would get a call with an update and notice that we got billed for it. Maybe if he did the work when he said he would we wouldn’t need to keep calling and therefore not necessitate a call. I just want someone to do what they say they will when they say it. If you don’t mind having to prod the attorney and staff to get stuff done….then this is the firm for you.
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04 Jan, 2023 by Salvador ayala
25 Aug, 2021 by Kevyn
Well when I call I get the run around games Everytime I call and I e been trying to get in contact with him since probley the 1st of the month and haven't been able to and now let's see I go to court today and still haven't talked to him. So I'll see what happens in court today hopefully I don't go to jail.
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02 Mar, 2019 by Jose yanez
The lawyer is also available for any cuestión
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08 Dec, 2022 by Ron rhodes
Make an appointment. They will keep it if they are not nudy
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04 Nov, 2022 by Terra mahre
McKenna took great care to work with us. She is personable and a great listener.Thanj you for your help.
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13 Dec, 2021 by Dave noll
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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.
