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13 Dec, 2024 by Derek mayokok
So this could go up to 5 Stars or down lower, it just all depends on the finished transactions between us all.. I will say so far I am very satisfied with the hard work they have been doing for us.. my lawyer is very kind and knowledgeable as well as her partners..
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05 Dec, 2024 by Leeja rein
My experience is great. Tamaki Law is out to help you in the worst experience that can happen to you and get you the best outcome.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Family fun
Le doy 5 estrellas a este maravilloso bufete de abogados tuve un accidente y no fue mi culpa ellos metieron mi caso con mi aseguradora y no tuve que preocuparme de nada ellos me consiguieron. Una gran recompensa por mi accidente y fueron muy atentos en mi caso y respondieron a todas mis dudas con amabilidad
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01 Nov, 2024 by Elizabeth marquez
We had 0 experience with a lawyer before so when we got into a pretty ugly accident and a friend recommended abeyta Nelson we went with them. James Boyer and Sofia Angeles took really good care of us and helped us through it all. It was a pretty long road but I was always able to contact them when I had a question or what to do next. Highly recommend if you ever need an injury lawyer.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Ben ayala
It has been 8 year since my injury, I never thought something like this would happen to me but it did and it changed my life forever and now I am still trying to regain some of what I have lost. What stays on my mind through this whole thing is don't give up and stay positive, thanks to ABEYTA NELSON and their team I am able to take care of my priorities and achieve my some of my goals, LIKE I was going to, Thanks & stay positive it helps and works.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Devin guerra-burnett
Working with James and Sofia was a great experience. Being involved in a car accident for the first time, they made the entire process so much smoother during such a stressful time. James clearly and thoroughly communicated everything I needed to know, patiently answering all my questions and explaining the terminology in a way I could easily understand. I felt confident and well taken care of throughout the process. I highly recommend James and Sofia!
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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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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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18 Sep, 2024 by Marcos milanez
Highly recommended Kelly Murray and her team. Excellent service thank you once again.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Tobias xbox
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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18 Sep, 2024 by Marcos milanez
Highly recommended Kelly Murray and her team. Excellent service thank you once again.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Tobias xbox
01 Nov, 2024 by Elizabeth marquez
We had 0 experience with a lawyer before so when we got into a pretty ugly accident and a friend recommended abeyta Nelson we went with them. James Boyer and Sofia Angeles took really good care of us and helped us through it all. It was a pretty long road but I was always able to contact them when I had a question or what to do next. Highly recommend if you ever need an injury lawyer.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Ben ayala
It has been 8 year since my injury, I never thought something like this would happen to me but it did and it changed my life forever and now I am still trying to regain some of what I have lost. What stays on my mind through this whole thing is don't give up and stay positive, thanks to ABEYTA NELSON and their team I am able to take care of my priorities and achieve my some of my goals, LIKE I was going to, Thanks & stay positive it helps and works.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Devin guerra-burnett
Working with James and Sofia was a great experience. Being involved in a car accident for the first time, they made the entire process so much smoother during such a stressful time. James clearly and thoroughly communicated everything I needed to know, patiently answering all my questions and explaining the terminology in a way I could easily understand. I felt confident and well taken care of throughout the process. I highly recommend James and Sofia!
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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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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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26 Nov, 2024 by Jacobo rivera
Muy buen servicio me ayudo con muchas dudas que tenia muy profesional se las recomiendo
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22 Nov, 2024 by Esmeralda torres-lopez
Best firm in Yakima, I would Highly recommend. Karina was efficient and thorough with my case. They were consistent on following up and keeping me updated!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Douglas wood
Very helpful and professional is an understatement, would easily recommend the services here. Resolved a difficult situation with ease. Really couldn’t ask for better, thank you!!!😊
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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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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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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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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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17 Jan, 2025 by Laura bachofner
Kevan Montoya and his team at Montoya Hinckley Law Firm were absolutely incredible in handling my personal injury case after a car accident. From the very beginning, Kevan took the time to explain everything clearly, making sure I understood my options and the potential outcomes. His understanding and professionalism stood out, as did the kindness and efficiency of his entire staff.
Kevan was always on top of things, and when I made my decisions about how I wanted to proceed, he fully supported me and never backed down. In the end, I got exactly what I expected and couldn’t be happier with the results.
During the process, I went through a very difficult personal time, and Kevan and his staff were so accommodating and respectful of my needs and timeframe. I truly can’t express how thankful I am for everything they’ve done for me. If you’re looking for an attorney who combines expertise, compassion, and a relentless drive to advocate for you, I highly recommend Kevan Montoya and his team!
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21 Aug, 2024 by T l
Called these folks based on a referral. They wanted a lot of personal information since it sounded like my issue was in their wheelhouse. They took a bunch of information and said they would follow up and I never heard back. Other places I called were very forward about their availability and services.
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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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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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17 Jan, 2025 by Ron newhouse
Very efficient and friendly
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21 Nov, 2024 by Pat thaler
Hey, a very easy experience and the staff is delightful and helpful. I will come back. Definitely recommend.
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27 Jul, 2024 by Sally brown
07 Nov, 2024 by Fernanda duran
Thanks to Yakima Law for being apart of my citizenship process. Jodi was amazing every step, always available and never made me feel bad for asking questions. I will recommend them to every one looking for great representation during an immigration case.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Edgar raudales solorzano
Gracias a Dios y con las abogadas, Jody y Claudia de Yakima Law, pudimos tener un buen resultado en nuestro proceso de inmigración. 100 x 100 recomendados!!!
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01 Jun, 2024 by Yanneiry saavedra
These firm embarrassed my mother and ruined her case. Her attorney's inability to do his duties resulted in her having to withdraw her case. This law firm is not something I would suggest. They are only trying to take your money and are quite reckless. The Washington State Bar Association should be notified about them.
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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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05 Apr, 2023 by Brenda seifert
14 Jul, 2018 by Warren rose
28 May, 2023 by Tamara m
28 Jun, 2022 by -the-1-
You should probably update your listings and your websites. They do not do civil litigation you might want to call them and ask them but if anyone understands the time it takes to call and talk to lawyers it's kind of tedious to not be able to read in their bio what they actually do. Hopefully they actually defend and represent their clients better
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25 Dec, 2021 by Casey england
They are straightforward and open and honest with what they can and can't do.
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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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18 Sep, 2024 by Marcos milanez
Highly recommended Kelly Murray and her team. Excellent service thank you once again.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Tobias xbox
09 Jan, 2025 by Jayda garcia
27 Dec, 2024 by Jon ray reneda
The best auto collision law firm in town! No upfront fee needed. They keep you updated, great communication. I was promised a certain amount on my settlement and got twice the amount and some more. I’m very grateful to be represented by morales law. Very well recommended!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Jhonatan lopez
Mal servicio, las secretarías son muy despotas
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11 Oct, 2024 by Randolph moen
Don't know how to return calls, apparently their office Don't new clients. I their not as smart as everyone thinks they are.
Dissatisfied.😞
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19 Aug, 2024 by Gayle dibble
Great Attorneys, legal aids, and office staff to work with. If I could give the a trillion stars I would they deserve all the good ratings. Very helpful and understanding. Love having them as my Attorney.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Dave stai
09 Jan, 2025 by Jayda garcia
27 Dec, 2024 by Jon ray reneda
The best auto collision law firm in town! No upfront fee needed. They keep you updated, great communication. I was promised a certain amount on my settlement and got twice the amount and some more. I’m very grateful to be represented by morales law. Very well recommended!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Jhonatan lopez
Mal servicio, las secretarías son muy despotas
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26 Nov, 2024 by Jacobo rivera
Muy buen servicio me ayudo con muchas dudas que tenia muy profesional se las recomiendo
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22 Nov, 2024 by Esmeralda torres-lopez
Best firm in Yakima, I would Highly recommend. Karina was efficient and thorough with my case. They were consistent on following up and keeping me updated!
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12 Nov, 2024 by Douglas wood
Very helpful and professional is an understatement, would easily recommend the services here. Resolved a difficult situation with ease. Really couldn’t ask for better, thank you!!!😊
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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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08 Oct, 2024 by P sebas
07 Oct, 2023 by Lisa mungo
26 May, 2022 by Aaron lochridge
diligent kind caring problem solver
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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.
