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26 Dec, 2024 by Jim frazier
I highly recommend this firm ! They treated me with such kindness and professionalism while navigating me through my case. I received a favorable judgment in record time. I am truly grateful to their team. Jon is an exceptional litigator.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Annetta
CARTER LAW IS THE ONLY CALL YOU NEED TO MAKE! The attorneys and staff at Carter Law are all absolutely amazing! I must have contacted at least a dozen law offices before I found there's. I'm not exaggerating when I say that they were the first ones to make me feel like I was more than just a potential paycheck and they were the ONLY ones who did! They genuinely care about the people they represent and didn't mind how many questions I had or how often I called or emailed with them. I know they have to be swamped with cases but they were always very patient and more than willing to take the time to help me. They made me feel like my case was the most important thing they had to do that day. The only thing I would have done differently was to CALL THEM FIRST! I can't thank all of you enough for your time and attention to me and my case!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Mary powers
It's with great disappointment that I have to write this review. We used Doug previously and he was able to achieve a settlement on our behalf, albeit a small one in comparison to what we believe we deserved. After he got paid, communication completely discontinued. We received a 1099 that included the money he was paid. We had to pay taxes on this. It was not insignificant. We reached out to him about this. No response. We also contacted him in regards to another potential claim. No response.
Unfortunately, it's our opinion that his law firm is a perfect example of "take the money and run." Absolutely no communication after they got their money.
Sad. It's especially sad because we were treated like friends all the way up to the settlement. 100% fake.
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11 Jan, 2025 by Bradley s. bobo
Guys I'm telling you now.....these folks know what they're doing. Monica got me the answers I needed in less than 5 minutes when she called me right back with the Info. And my own attorney could not get me the Info in over a week so I moved onto Jungle Law. They are the real deal.....no joke. Thank you guys very much. I will share my experience with all whom I know
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10 Jan, 2025 by Elvin perdomo
Muy seguros
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08 Jan, 2025 by Yunus
They work really professional.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I did feel my case was given the time it deserved. At first meeting Phil was very attentive and ready to help. As we started, the amount communication was less than desired. I felt I was in large part ignored and pushed to agree to a parenting plan at the very last minute. I would not use him again.
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14 Jan, 2024 by Mishawn davis
It is a shame it has taken me more than a decade to find a law firm that knows the law, operates in a top-caliber manner, and treats the client like a human. I have had a couple of attorneys at Hale, but the one who helped us the most was Suzanne. Not only is she a bomb a** attorney, but she also knows how to handle and run a business, be classy, and professional, and have customer service. I appreciate her no-frills approach to handling cases and client situations.
She keeps a client-centered approach and looks out for everyone's best interest. Attorneys are indeed expensive but Suzanne makes sure the money spent on your case is allocated in a manner that does not leave your account on zero or paying unnecessary fees. She believes in transparency, honesty, and integrity; which is rare when an attorney is involved in difficult cases. She understands that the way she is represented in and out of the courtroom is a reflection of her business and there is not a time that she does not take her work seriously. The few times we had to speak with her on the phone, she has always been patient and attentive while listening closely to our concerns. She is very responsive and treats the attorney-client relationship as an important investment. You are not just a number to her, but a human. Should I ever need an attorney again, I will hire them again in a heartbeat. To all who work at Hale, we appreciate you. Suzanne, thank you for constantly standing on business and doing right by your clients. You are a real one.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Adam isern
23 Jan, 2025 by Keith prinkey
This place is scandalous. I called to merely get information. I was transferred to a female lawyer who told me to tell her about my case. She didn’t even let me finish before she cut me off to say they won’t take the case. She also confirmed they handle little to no malpractice cases so I asked why they appear at the top when searching malpractice lawyers. I told her, if you don’t handle malpractice then that is misrepresentation of services. She really got upset and hung up on me for merely making a comment.
She also confirmed they only take cases where they KNOW a settlement is coming.
I’m more concerned with the level of disrespect from this office. Even their receptionist was ignorant. What kind of law office is rude to people?
Lawyers are NOT allowed to misrepresent their services or mislead people in any way. Those google results are more than misleading, it says ‘we handle these type of cases’ when I’m reality they do not. As a software developer myself I know this was done on purpose. I know exactly what is needed to appear in google search results. They would not appear in malpractice results if they did not put it in their title or headers on their pages. They clearly have malpractice somewhere with in their website either in a title element or headers. Google literally scrapes the pages for such data lol.
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19 Dec, 2024 by W c
Angela receptionist very rude and did not have a feeling of understanding and compassion with speaking with her. She seems to not like her job in customer service.
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28 Nov, 2024 by Jeff chapman
Carl Mueller was excellent. He stood up to the work comp insurance and got both surgeries I needed. I was always able to contact him with questions or problems that had arisen any time during the 2 years. He fought and and I received the monetary damages I deserved. I would recommend Edelman & Thompson to anyone.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Keith prinkey
This place is scandalous. I called to merely get information. I was transferred to a female lawyer who told me to tell her about my case. She didn’t even let me finish before she cut me off to say they won’t take the case. She also confirmed they handle little to no malpractice cases so I asked why they appear at the top when searching malpractice lawyers. I told her, if you don’t handle malpractice then that is misrepresentation of services. She really got upset and hung up on me for merely making a comment.
She also confirmed they only take cases where they KNOW a settlement is coming.
I’m more concerned with the level of disrespect from this office. Even their receptionist was ignorant. What kind of law office is rude to people?
Lawyers are NOT allowed to misrepresent their services or mislead people in any way. Those google results are more than misleading, it says ‘we handle these type of cases’ when I’m reality they do not. As a software developer myself I know this was done on purpose. I know exactly what is needed to appear in google search results. They would not appear in malpractice results if they did not put it in their title or headers on their pages. They clearly have malpractice somewhere with in their website either in a title element or headers. Google literally scrapes the pages for such data lol.
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19 Dec, 2024 by W c
Angela receptionist very rude and did not have a feeling of understanding and compassion with speaking with her. She seems to not like her job in customer service.
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28 Nov, 2024 by Jeff chapman
Carl Mueller was excellent. He stood up to the work comp insurance and got both surgeries I needed. I was always able to contact him with questions or problems that had arisen any time during the 2 years. He fought and and I received the monetary damages I deserved. I would recommend Edelman & Thompson to anyone.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Chayene soares
Bom hotel e bom bar
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03 Aug, 2024 by Kris kaler
Great Cafe if you can eat there!
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11 May, 2024 by Emmanuel ajeje
22 Nov, 2024 by Chayene soares
Bom hotel e bom bar
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03 Aug, 2024 by Kris kaler
Great Cafe if you can eat there!
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11 May, 2024 by Emmanuel ajeje
22 Nov, 2024 by Chayene soares
Bom hotel e bom bar
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03 Aug, 2024 by Kris kaler
Great Cafe if you can eat there!
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11 May, 2024 by Emmanuel ajeje
22 Nov, 2024 by Chayene soares
Bom hotel e bom bar
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03 Aug, 2024 by Kris kaler
Great Cafe if you can eat there!
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11 May, 2024 by Emmanuel ajeje
22 Nov, 2024 by Chayene soares
Bom hotel e bom bar
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03 Aug, 2024 by Kris kaler
Great Cafe if you can eat there!
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11 May, 2024 by Emmanuel ajeje
22 Nov, 2024 by Chayene soares
Bom hotel e bom bar
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03 Aug, 2024 by Kris kaler
Great Cafe if you can eat there!
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11 May, 2024 by Emmanuel ajeje
09 May, 2024 by Laris dotson
Terrible experience with receptionist. Really snotty attitude. Would choose elsewhere.
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18 Apr, 2023 by L gelatt
We were a little apprehensive about contacting a lawyer over our retirement investment loss, because it’s embarrassing to be “those financial dummies.” We weren’t even sure where to get help until we found an ad for our specific issue from a lawyer out of state. It was our own state’s employee retirement system who recommended the program and the person that cause us issues!
Mr. Bartle was very respectful, and looked into the issue before taking us on, to give an honest idea of our chances. We checked out his record to be sure he was trustworthy, and we’re pleased with what we found. It turns out we were entitled to compensation, and he was able to recover a decent portion of our loss without even going to court. We owed the law firm nothing upfront. All fees were deducted from the settlement. He was straightforward the entire time, and made the process simple and relatively quick. Many thanks to Matt Bartle of Bartle and Marcus and their team for their help in recovering our loss. 10/10 Highly reccomended.
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13 Apr, 2023 by Hannah e
Top notch Law firm. Honesty and integrity are priority here.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Nicole brown
I have contacted numerous law firms, and unfortunately, this particular firm does not handle cases like mine. However, I must express my gratitude for the exceptional kindness and assistance provided by the lady who answered my call. Her demeanor stood out in stark contrast to the previous thirty calls I had made. I even spoke with a prominent firm that does handle my type of case, but I would not recommend them under any circumstances. Although I am uncertain about the types of cases they specialize in, I can confidently say that if their other staff members are as helpful as the lady I spoke with, then anyone seeking legal assistance would be in capable hands. Once again, I extend my sincere appreciation.
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20 Apr, 2024 by Eli g
These people are heaven sent. My life was a absolute mess before their services.
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31 Jan, 2024 by D brooks
David Bell is the absolute best. 10/10 recommend.
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21 Oct, 2020 by Mike benkovich
03 Jul, 2020 by Joe lynch
Tony was ready to help without worrying about up front fees.
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11 Dec, 2019 by Robert k
05 Oct, 2022 by Zach cogswell
Super responsive and efficient with communication. Nathan Orr and Amy Lewandowski are some of the kindest, most helpful people I've interacted with. They clearly work AMAZING with people and clearly are adept in doing so. I cannot leave anything higher than 5, but if I could, I would. These guys are good people, which is hard to come by in this day and age.
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03 Dec, 2021 by Netta avelino
13 Oct, 2020 by Dr. kesta bilberry
04 Dec, 2024 by Philip bennett
I cannot recommend Fisher Law enough. The firm was recommended to me from a co-worker and I couldn't have chosen a better partner during my separation journey. Stacey was extremely helpful and knowledgeable from the beginning of my case to the end (which was handled in Johnson County, KS). I always felt like my voice was being heard while Stacey was sharing guidance from her experiences in the past. We hit several bumps in the road throughout my case (at no fault of Stacey), and she helped us handle those bumps with professionalism and class along the way. Analisa was a wonderful support figure throughout the case as Stacey's paralegal with great responsiveness and timeliness. Whether you're on the Kansas or Missouri side of the state line, Fisher Law is the best legal support you can find for family law!
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24 Nov, 2024 by Taylor bradley
I have nothing but wonderful things to say about my experience with the Burgess Law firm. Mitch and Ally were exceptionally communicative, skilled, and thorough. Having experienced this process before with other injury attorneys, Mitch and Ally have raised my standards to whole new level. I’m very grateful to have had this support during a stressful time in my life. Thank you both!
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22 Nov, 2024 by Jim wayman
Mitch and his team have always done a great job representing myself and my family. They work hard to get what you deserve. I would highly recommend Burgess Law.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Sarah oswald
20 Sep, 2024 by Carey sommers
I contacted Bell Law Firm after I was referred to them, concerning a landlord tenant situation pertaining to mold mycotoxin toxicity. I was treated extremely horrible from the landlord. I lived in a water damage toxic mold apartment for 2 and 1/2 years. The landlord did absolutely nothing to help me and rectify the situation. I was so impressed with everyone at Bell Law firm! I cannot say enough about everyone that I spoke to or met with. I was referred to another attorney because of the issues with my health. The law firm felt that it was more important to address that part of my situation. I would have loved to have worked with them. I would recommend them 100%! Bell law firm listened, they were very quick responding, they were honest, they did not take my case lightly, they did their homework and researched my situation. I respect Bell Law firm for everything, even taking the time to research my case and direct me in the area they felt was best for me. Do not hesitate to hire them! I believe with out a shadow of a doubt they had my best interest at heart and I truly felt that they cared about me 100%!
I definitely wish that I was able to work with them but I also respect their advice and what they felt was best for me.
I definitely felt like I was the only person they were talking to at time! That's how incredible they treated me.
Thank you Bell Law firm and I wish we could have worked together! Thank you for everything!
Carey Sommers
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20 Aug, 2024 by Carrie yates
I called this Bell Law firm to see if I had a case and spoke to I think it was delany and she was very compassionate and even though there firm couldn't help she took the time to go beyond and gave me information about another firm that might.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Sarah oswald
20 Sep, 2024 by Carey sommers
I contacted Bell Law Firm after I was referred to them, concerning a landlord tenant situation pertaining to mold mycotoxin toxicity. I was treated extremely horrible from the landlord. I lived in a water damage toxic mold apartment for 2 and 1/2 years. The landlord did absolutely nothing to help me and rectify the situation. I was so impressed with everyone at Bell Law firm! I cannot say enough about everyone that I spoke to or met with. I was referred to another attorney because of the issues with my health. The law firm felt that it was more important to address that part of my situation. I would have loved to have worked with them. I would recommend them 100%! Bell law firm listened, they were very quick responding, they were honest, they did not take my case lightly, they did their homework and researched my situation. I respect Bell Law firm for everything, even taking the time to research my case and direct me in the area they felt was best for me. Do not hesitate to hire them! I believe with out a shadow of a doubt they had my best interest at heart and I truly felt that they cared about me 100%!
I definitely wish that I was able to work with them but I also respect their advice and what they felt was best for me.
I definitely felt like I was the only person they were talking to at time! That's how incredible they treated me.
Thank you Bell Law firm and I wish we could have worked together! Thank you for everything!
Carey Sommers
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20 Aug, 2024 by Carrie yates
I called this Bell Law firm to see if I had a case and spoke to I think it was delany and she was very compassionate and even though there firm couldn't help she took the time to go beyond and gave me information about another firm that might.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Sarah oswald
20 Sep, 2024 by Carey sommers
I contacted Bell Law Firm after I was referred to them, concerning a landlord tenant situation pertaining to mold mycotoxin toxicity. I was treated extremely horrible from the landlord. I lived in a water damage toxic mold apartment for 2 and 1/2 years. The landlord did absolutely nothing to help me and rectify the situation. I was so impressed with everyone at Bell Law firm! I cannot say enough about everyone that I spoke to or met with. I was referred to another attorney because of the issues with my health. The law firm felt that it was more important to address that part of my situation. I would have loved to have worked with them. I would recommend them 100%! Bell law firm listened, they were very quick responding, they were honest, they did not take my case lightly, they did their homework and researched my situation. I respect Bell Law firm for everything, even taking the time to research my case and direct me in the area they felt was best for me. Do not hesitate to hire them! I believe with out a shadow of a doubt they had my best interest at heart and I truly felt that they cared about me 100%!
I definitely wish that I was able to work with them but I also respect their advice and what they felt was best for me.
I definitely felt like I was the only person they were talking to at time! That's how incredible they treated me.
Thank you Bell Law firm and I wish we could have worked together! Thank you for everything!
Carey Sommers
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20 Aug, 2024 by Carrie yates
I called this Bell Law firm to see if I had a case and spoke to I think it was delany and she was very compassionate and even though there firm couldn't help she took the time to go beyond and gave me information about another firm that might.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Alexander taylor
26 Sep, 2022 by Wraex
From the second we called Law Tigers they were on the case working for us, advocating for us. I was in the hospital for almost a month, but my wife and I were in constant contact with them and assured they would take care of everything to the best of their abilities and they did just that! I would 100% recommend them if you are unfortunate enough to ever be involved in a motorcycle accident.
~Charles H
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25 Apr, 2022 by Toni r
17 Dec, 2024 by Taylor botts
24 Sep, 2024 by Tonya flegler
I knew my son was facing a very serious charge, I paid 20,000 for representation that I feel a public defender could have done. I felt like he absolutely did not fight for my son at all, whatever the prosecutor said , is what it was. My son has never been in any type of trouble, and any time I would mention anything with his case that I looked up on my own he would say oh that doesn’t apply to his case. My son was never showed any evidence that they supposedly had against him. Communication with the attorney was not the best, he would respond when it was convenient. I was told after the case was over, if you ever have any questions feel free to reach out, I did and never heard back from him. I guess after getting his money, his job was done…. Don’t say reach out with questions if you know you’re not going to keep your word. He had me believing the whole time he would do all he could to help my son, he still got screwed in the end.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Alexandria ward
Susan did the estate plan for my grandparents and has done a number of traffic tickets for my family and myself she has always been amazing I keep her on retainer for any issues that come up and I feel I need legal advice
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17 Jan, 2025 by A. rene'e gooley
It was great working with Jessica, She was very helpful and understanding thru it all. Helped me and my husband out a lot. And we appreciate everything she has done and also preparing us for court. I will definitely recommend her.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Susan mindham
Jessica was a pleasure to work with! She was very knowledgeable and took care of our business quickly and efficiently. I would definitely recommend her for your legal issues. Thank you so much Jessica!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Glenn thomas
This guy will tell you what a great case you have. He will charge you out the nose to send emails back and forth with opposing councel. Eventually he will tell you "just to settle", stating "Going to court will get very expensive". I speak from experience.
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02 Dec, 2024 by James cannon
Have used her several times. Always professional and the best divorce lawyer in Kansas City.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Tanika love
29 Jun, 2024 by Nina
25 Mar, 2024 by Talie hugo
WIL NEVER GO THROUGH THIS LAW FIRM! MOST RUDE DISRESPECTFUL LADY THAT ANSWERS THE PHONE, I COULDN'T GET A WORD IN WITH OUT HER YELLING AND I'M PAYING FOR STEPHEN. YOUR NEED A PERSON WHO
WILL SPEAK TO PEOPLE AND NOT BE YELLING, RUDE OR DISRESPECTFUL. I WISH I COULD GIVE ZERO STARS IM ASHAMED FOR HER ON HOW SHE TALKS AND TREATS ANY HUMAN BEING!
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10 Jan, 2023 by Robin contello
01 Nov, 2020 by Nicki nicole
I was referred to Mr. Green by my aunt who has used his services and I must say my initial convo with him was ok but afterwards he acted as though he could care less about helping me with my case. Being I have depression and PTSD, amongst other things, I am trying to find a lawyer I can trust that will get me the benefits I deserve espiecially since I have been denied multiple times and was told this was the best lawyer in town but he hasn't did anything to help, stating I need more proof but the proof is in the pudding... I get so overwhelned with this whole process and feel I can't do it alone plus 8t seems noone understand my particular situation...
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08 Jul, 2024 by Hannah k.
08 Jul, 2024 by Elissa v
Left 2 messages to set up an appointment as a potential new client on their “intake coordinator’s” voicemail because she never answers her phone and neither call was returned. Apparently, they don’t need new business so I’m glad I didn’t trust them with my case.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Susan huckleberry
My coworker and I approached Edgar Law Firm for a class action lawsuit. John was very helpful, telling us the options, how things would be handled, and what to expect in most cases. He flew to our location for depositions, kept us informed throughout the lengthy (thanks COVID) process, and always treated us with respect and consideration. After a lengthy situation with another law firm insinuating itself into our case and landing the case is appellate court, we got a result in our favor.
I would recommend Edgar Law Firm if you are considering a lawsuit.
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26 Dec, 2024 by Jim frazier
I highly recommend this firm ! They treated me with such kindness and professionalism while navigating me through my case. I received a favorable judgment in record time. I am truly grateful to their team. Jon is an exceptional litigator.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Annetta
CARTER LAW IS THE ONLY CALL YOU NEED TO MAKE! The attorneys and staff at Carter Law are all absolutely amazing! I must have contacted at least a dozen law offices before I found there's. I'm not exaggerating when I say that they were the first ones to make me feel like I was more than just a potential paycheck and they were the ONLY ones who did! They genuinely care about the people they represent and didn't mind how many questions I had or how often I called or emailed with them. I know they have to be swamped with cases but they were always very patient and more than willing to take the time to help me. They made me feel like my case was the most important thing they had to do that day. The only thing I would have done differently was to CALL THEM FIRST! I can't thank all of you enough for your time and attention to me and my case!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Mary powers
It's with great disappointment that I have to write this review. We used Doug previously and he was able to achieve a settlement on our behalf, albeit a small one in comparison to what we believe we deserved. After he got paid, communication completely discontinued. We received a 1099 that included the money he was paid. We had to pay taxes on this. It was not insignificant. We reached out to him about this. No response. We also contacted him in regards to another potential claim. No response.
Unfortunately, it's our opinion that his law firm is a perfect example of "take the money and run." Absolutely no communication after they got their money.
Sad. It's especially sad because we were treated like friends all the way up to the settlement. 100% fake.
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09 May, 2024 by Jodi johnstone
I feel as though I was wrongfully arrested for a DUI. I am a pretty boring mom who never goes out and had not had a drink in years. A friend came from out of town and for the first night in years I took her out in KC, had 1 drink, than drank water for about 2 hours, grabbed a bite to eat, and about 3 or 4 hours after my one drink got in the car and forgot to turn on my headlights and got pulled over by a thirty to arrest DUI officer. He did three field sobriety test and I lost my balance on the walk, the last test, due to nerves/anxiety (was shaking), it was on an elevated surfaces and a uneven cracked sidewalk. He arrested me and gave me a PBT which I easily passed but still insisted I was under the influence. I called many lawyers and many stated that many prosecutors are hard on DUI’s due to MAD and even though it seemed straightforward we likely would have to go to trial. I looked up Denise and was impressed by her credentials but once I talked to her I knew she was hands down the one I wanted to hire. She was confident in her abilities and what she would be able to do for me. I could have gotten a cheaper lawyer but I she was well worth the extra I had to spend to get representation that would fight for me. Denise was able to get charge completely dismissed. It is disappointing that you can do everything right and still get wrongfully arrested by someone stacking up cases but thankful for people like Denise who are able to represent people when they feel like the odds are stacked against them.
Denise, thanks for everything you did to represent me and get my case dismissed. I shouldn’t never need another DUI lawyer but would/will recommend you, hands down!
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18 Mar, 2024 by Bryan deba
14 Jun, 2023 by Karlin york
I got charged with a DWI in September, 2022. I hired Denise Kirby and she started by calling me and getting all the information she needed from me asap. She was very impressive with how she handled the case and she constantly kept me in the loop with what was going on. After watching the video of my arrest, she filed for a motion to suppress and won that, which resulted in the case being dropped. She came to court incredibly prepared and had a counter for everything the prosecutor said. Overall, watching Denise handle this case was very impressive and I would highly recommend her to anyone in this situation.
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25 Dec, 2024 by Paul redlingshafer
25 Dec, 2024 by Paul redlingshafer
25 Dec, 2024 by Lee redlingshafer
06 Feb, 2025 by Robyn lee
Paid in full and he never showed up in court, no call, no explanation. He did refund the payment at least, but overall, a waste of time.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Epic steele
I call Jeff any time I get a ticket he's great and makes things so much less time consuming for me he's amazing
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19 Sep, 2024 by Ronda cuington
09 Dec, 2024 by Esperanza deleon
05 Jan, 2024 by Thomas arnspiger
Great representation. My chapter 7 was taken care of by Mr. Sader. It was easy and painless. Upfront cost is a bit daunting, but if you can afford it, this is the way to go. Highly recommend.
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10 Dec, 2023 by Monica williams
They are patient, kind and most of all through!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Real Estate Lawyer Can Do for You
A real estate lawyer provides legal assistance in transactions and disputes involving property, including residential and commercial real estate. Whether you're buying, selling, leasing, or developing property, a real estate attorney can help ensure that your transactions are legally sound and your rights are protected. They review contracts, perform due diligence, resolve disputes, and provide legal representation in negotiations and litigation involving property matters.
Real estate lawyers are crucial in safeguarding your investment by ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal real estate laws, as well as protecting you from potential legal pitfalls related to property ownership and transactions.
When Should I Hire a Real Estate Lawyer?
Hiring a real estate lawyer is beneficial in various scenarios, including:
- Buying or selling property: When navigating complex real estate contracts, it’s advisable to have a lawyer review and ensure that the terms are favorable and legal.
- Commercial property transactions: For leasing, purchasing, or selling commercial properties, a lawyer can help manage the intricate legal aspects of such transactions.
- Zoning or land use issues: If you're planning to develop property or change its use, a real estate lawyer can guide you through zoning laws and land use regulations.
- Resolving property disputes: For boundary disputes, title issues, or disagreements over property rights, a lawyer can help mediate or litigate the matter.
- Foreclosures or evictions: If you're dealing with foreclosure or managing a tenant eviction, legal representation ensures that the process adheres to local laws and protects your interests.
- Title and deed issues: Lawyers can help clear title disputes, ensure the legitimacy of property deeds, and handle transfers of ownership.
What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do?
A real estate lawyer provides a range of services to help with property transactions and disputes, including:
- Contract drafting and review: Ensuring that purchase agreements, leases, and other contracts are legally binding, fair, and protect your interests.
- Title search and clearance: Conducting a thorough title search to ensure that the property has no legal claims or liens that could affect ownership.
- Facilitate closing: Managing the closing process in real estate transactions, including reviewing final documents and ensuring that everything is in order before the transfer of ownership.
- Resolve disputes: Handling legal disputes related to property ownership, boundaries, zoning, or tenants.
- Assist in financing: Reviewing loan agreements and mortgage documents to ensure the terms are fair and legally sound.
- Zoning and land use advice: Guiding clients through the complexities of zoning laws and building regulations for property development or renovation projects.
How Are Real Estate Lawyers Paid?
Real estate lawyers typically charge for their services in the following ways:
- Flat fee: Many real estate transactions, such as reviewing a sales contract or assisting with a closing, are charged on a flat-fee basis.
- Hourly rates: If a lawyer is handling complex disputes or litigation, they may charge by the hour. Hourly rates can vary significantly based on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Contingency fees: In rare cases, such as property disputes or claims for damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win or settle the case.
- Retainer: For ongoing legal support, some clients may pay a retainer, which is an upfront fee used as a deposit for future legal services.
It's important to clarify the fee structure with your attorney before hiring them to avoid any surprises.
How Much Does a Real Estate Lawyer Cost?
The cost of a real estate lawyer varies based on the complexity of the matter, the location of the property, and the lawyer’s experience. Key factors that affect pricing include:
- Type of transaction or issue: Simple tasks, like contract reviews, typically cost less than handling a complex property dispute or litigation.
- Experience and location: More experienced lawyers or those in high-demand areas, like urban centers, often charge higher rates.
- Billing structure: Lawyers may charge a flat fee for basic services like document review or hourly for more time-intensive work such as disputes or litigation.
Flat fees for straightforward services like closing assistance may range from $500 to $1,500.
Hourly rates can range from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the attorney’s experience and location.
Always discuss fees upfront to understand the overall cost of the legal service you're receiving.
Top Questions to Ask a Real Estate Lawyer
Before hiring a real estate lawyer, ask the following questions to ensure they are the right fit for your legal needs:
-
What experience do you have with real estate law?
Ensure the lawyer has experience in the type of real estate transaction or dispute you’re facing, whether residential, commercial, or development-related. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for services - whether it's a flat fee, hourly rate, or retainer - so there are no surprises later on. -
How long will the process take?
Especially important for real estate transactions or disputes with deadlines, ask for a general estimate of how long the process will last. -
Have you handled cases similar to mine?
Experience with similar transactions or disputes can give you confidence that the lawyer knows how to handle your case. -
Will you handle my case personally, or will it be passed to another attorney?
Confirm who will be handling the bulk of your case work, especially in larger firms where junior lawyers may take on some responsibilities. -
Can you provide references?
Speaking with past clients can give you insight into the lawyer's experience and how they handle cases.
How to Check the Credibility of a Real Estate Lawyer
To ensure you’re hiring a reputable real estate lawyer, take these steps:
- Check with the state bar association: Verify that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no disciplinary actions on their record.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on legal directories and platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should have past clients willing to share their experiences.
- Review their track record and expertise: Look at the lawyer’s website or LinkedIn profile for information about their experience in real estate law and any relevant cases they’ve handled.
- Membership in professional organizations: Lawyers who are members of respected legal or real estate organizations, like the American Bar Association’s Real Property Division, often signal credibility and expertise.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make your first meeting with a real estate lawyer productive, you should prepare the following materials:
- Relevant property documents: Bring purchase agreements, lease contracts, mortgage documents, zoning permits, or any other paperwork related to your case.
- A summary of the issue or transaction: Be ready to explain the situation, whether it's a property dispute, contract negotiation, or development issue.
- Questions about the legal process: Prepare a list of questions about how the lawyer will handle your case and what steps are involved.
- Financial documents or loan agreements: If the case involves financing or a mortgage, bring any related documents for the lawyer to review.
- Your goals and timeline: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, and if there are any deadlines that need to be considered, such as closing dates or legal filings.
By coming prepared, you can ensure that your consultation is efficient and informative, allowing you to assess whether the lawyer is the right fit for your real estate needs.
