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01 Sep, 2024 by Annette bridges
24 Aug, 2024 by Ashley scott
If I could give attorney Zhao a below one, it would most definitely be a 0. She has poor manners and didn't think my spouse case was work, who responds to a client stating "I have been very busy with work" like my spouse case wasn't work. Then gets upset and removed herself from the case after filling into the case because you don't like corrective criticism, how unethical. When she calls her clients she is very disgruntled and pushy, can't be so sure if its a personality conflict or a color/race conflict, but whatever it is. I would not recommend her for any case learn how to treat your clients. You won't make it very far being rude, people are no longer standing for bad behaviors.
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14 Aug, 2024 by M j
I had a legal issue with the business that I manage and Paul King of King & Jones was an absolute pleasure to work with. From the initial phone consultation, Paul was very helpful explaining all my options and the process going forward. While working with them, they were in constant contact all the steps during the way. The final outcome was favorable and I owe it to their expertise in legal business law. Thank you!
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22 Apr, 2023 by Dawn adams
I worked for Sidley for a long time. Coming out of the Medical field and going to work for a LAW FIRM was a bit of a change, but I was involved in Health Ins and Insurance claims and retired in 2009. Definitely, one of my favorite jobs.
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28 Feb, 2023 by Ahmed
I once had lawyer here put the wrong name on a form they were submitting to the government on my behalf. That kind of situation where you edit a template but fail to catch one of the places the old name was in. Fortunately, I randomly found it and called it out. No apology or acknowledgment. Sigh
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23 Oct, 2022 by Jazlynn williams
Although I was a temp, I loved working here. The work culture is friendly and professional. Sidley will do it's best to adjust their business model to meet their employees needs. I would love to work here again. Highly recommend this law firm for employment.
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04 Aug, 2024 by Roberto matute
23 Mar, 2024 by Neha uikey
Neha uikey
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03 Mar, 2024 by Ronald pogodzinski
16 Apr, 2020 by Bobby
David Martay has help me with 2 work comp cases . David is a straight forward attorney that gets right to the point and gets things done . Each case is unique and he will make sure all treatments get approved and also make sure you get a fair settlement for you work injury. I would of never used him again if I felt he didn’t do his best for me .
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28 Jun, 2018 by Steven
This was the first time for me using a layer for a horrible truck accident I was involved In. David and his team did an outstanding job through out the whole process. I felt very informed and was taken care of the whole way. Thank you very much for your help. I highly recommend David and his team!
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21 May, 2018 by Richard
Been 4 years since retaining him, I 've gotten a lot of letters, and thank GOD my private insurance has been paying since then, or I'd really be screwed. Letter stating he'll go to the commission, then absolutely NOTHING for months. Can't even get an injection approved when Travelers own doctor recommended an injection
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03 Jan, 2023 by Ed jordon
Smartest man I’ve ever met. Great atty. highly recommend.
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27 Jan, 2021 by Kelsey “kelseyâ€
28 Apr, 2016 by Nichole mccartney
He's awsome
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21 Sep, 2024 by Jackie la diabla
I was facing federal prison time Mr.goldberg & Jeff his associate from the start they work hard too make sure I had the best outcome possible. mr.goldberg demonstrated exceptional level of knowledge and professionalism he made me feel protected from the start he instilled in me trust which it was very hard too find in me faith which I never lost 👏🏼 too trust in hes abilities mr.Goldberg always throughout the entire process make sure always returns calls and make sure always had & understanding of status of the case & I felt that he had my best interest in mind he truly proved to be a savior in My life from the start thank you very much mr.goldberg I am grateful. I highly recommend him for any cases you feel no hope and you want the best outcome possible you could trust he's abilities/ knowledge/ experience he's a straightforward person down to earth. my personal experience with him all I could say is he made me feel protected and was my savior in my federal case. I truly highly recommend mr Goldberg 💯
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19 Sep, 2024 by Joey
It is very rare in this day and age to find an honest, ethical, and no nonsense Attorney. Jonathan has more than earned my respect and appreciation, I value him and his ethics more than imagined. He kept me informed throughout the entire process, too show my appreciation for his hard work, I have already started to refer him friends and family, you don’t get a better thank you than continuing the relationship via referrals. Jonathan thank you for everything, you have given me the opportunity to change my life and stay stabile. I HIGHLY recommend anyone thinking about filing for SS benefits to contact Jonathan. 10 stars in my book.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Evelyn shropshire
Jonathon was outstanding!! He is very professional, nice and easy to talk to. Johnathon was always quick to respond back. Process was very smooth and faster than I expected. Most get denied a few times for the beginning process. Don’t get discouraged. Then there’s the hearing. Everything went very well at this stage. Within a few weeks I received my acceptance letter. Thank you very much Johnathon!!!!
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17 May, 2024 by Kanye pugh
Michelle seems over loaded with cases too the point my case was not handled professionally I would not recommend also very rude it got so bad I had too find another attorney #SEEK MORE LAWYERS TOO HELP WITH YOUR LOAD
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28 Feb, 2024 by Brooke peffer
Attorney Dirk May is great. The others, not so much. The female lawyer will adjudicate your lien. Be careful doctors.
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08 Sep, 2023 by Mary dickman
Williams & Swee helped me get a nice settlement & I highly recommend you call them with your legal matters!
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31 Jan, 2024 by Rick blue
24 Dec, 2023 by Leighann bundy
10 Aug, 2023 by Florence overall
28 Aug, 2024 by Maggie parker
A blessing to have in my life, always good information, and very very helpful.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Jeff jones
I don't know why all the bad reviews. I spoke with one of the lawyers yesterday (07-08-2024 and was very expressed with the help and knowledge she had about the issue I have! This service is wonderful and helpful! Thank you so much! Very professional, God bless!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Janusz walentynowicz (walentin)
Rusty - a god friend and attorney whom I keep returning to when in need of legal services and advice.
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24 Feb, 2024 by Darya
Ellen represented me in my recent order of protection case. Her professionalism and expertise were invaluable assets throughout this challenging process.
Prior to each hearing, I experienced significant anxiety. Ellen was able to skillfully navigate these concerns and help ease my anxieties. Her calm demeanor and clear communication instilled confidence, and her ability to explain complex legal matters in a straightforward manner was truly appreciated.
While Ellen always maintained the utmost professionalism, she also possessed a genuine empathy for my situation. This combination of legal expertise and personal understanding made me feel truly supported throughout the process.
Ultimately, Ellen secured a favorable outcome in my case, granting me the order of protection and restoring a sense of safety and security for both me and my child. I am incredibly grateful for her dedication and unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible result.
Without hesitation, I highly recommend Ellen to anyone seeking legal representation in a similar situation. Her expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for her clients make her an exceptional attorney.
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25 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Difficult to get a hold of. Would not return messages left. Rarely followed up on commitments. Did not meet promised deadlines.
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06 Mar, 2018 by Preston
Ellen was professional and precise when working against my ex wife's shady attorney. We remained calm and collected against multiple threats from the other attorney and ended coming out way ahead in my opinion. The divorce and alimony laws in Illinois are terrible, but I was happy with the outcome that Ellen was able to provide. She remained professional even when her counterpart did not and I appreciate that.
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30 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Without explanation, changed opinion almost immediately after retainer payment. Tried to convince myself that the Conick didn’t have a memory problem, but his memory problem is just one issue. Had to repeat several times and/or refer to typed information/messages the type of documents, witnesses, facts, issues, history, etc. But no matter how many times repeated, Conick continued to demand another repeat. Conick refused and/or failed to answer even a few basic and simple questions. During a ten month period Conick demanded that I produce documents in response to Plaintiffs’ Discovery while concurrently he Conick agreed and allowed Plaintiffs to NOT respond to Discovery questions or produce documents required by them. This would also be concurrent to Plaintiffs’ fictitious court rules claimed in Plaintiffs’ complaint, ignored terms of documents and ignored controlling common law as well as other issues. This is only some of the problems with Conick.
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10 Mar, 2015 by Linda
Mr. Conick helped us review and modify all the legal documents we use in our nonprofit. We have a unique organization and Mr. Conick took the time to interview us to gain a thorough understanding of how we operate and what goals we have for building a reputable company. His assistance has been invaluable.
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10 Mar, 2015 by John
Our firm has worked with Harold Conick for over 25 years. I have found Harold and his staff to be most responsive and helpful. I recommend Harold and his firm.
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15 May, 2023 by Ed
I consulted with Mr. Russell as a possible new client. I do not recommend him. I would describe him as a false hope and taking up clients valuable time.
Don't commit to replying to someone for days on end then ignoring them completely wasting their time.
After you give them what I call false hope of taking their case.
I will look in other places to also post my review.
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10 Jul, 2017 by Peter
Mr. Kofoed is professional, experienced, efficient, effective, experienced, compassionate and knowledgeable. There is no lawyer in the world I would rather trust with my future. The best of the best. The epitome of what a lawyer was meant to be.
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17 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I contacted Attorney Kofoed to review matters relating to my criminal case. Although the case was not one of his areas of expertise, he was extremely nice and thorough in reviewing all major aspects of my case. Russ took the time to listen and see if there was anything he could do to help. Prior to this occasion, I had used Attorney Kofoed's services in the past on a number of issues relating to educational and administrative law. On each of those cases, he always kept in direct communication with me and explored every avenue on my cases in an attempt to win them. For these reasons, I have no problem in recommending Attorney Russ Kofoed in the areas of administrative or educational law.
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04 Oct, 2024 by N. b.
Sam is a very honest and upfront. Although I was unable to use his services, he was still willing to give me great advice with my situation. anytime I had a question, he would always answer or call me back. I would recommend his services to anyone.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Viola meents
13 Sep, 2024 by Allison ascher
Just closed out a real estate transaction with Neeley and her team. Everything was seamless from start to finish! They went above and beyond, even when some things weren't necessary for them to tackle. Thank you!
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28 Sep, 2022 by Vincent
2 years after surgery, and he claims that he has been waiting, for my medical records, waiting (2)years, that's why we have know trail date? The Doctors, office showed me the confirmation, that they had given him all my, Medical records , and that I was discharged from the Doctors office. Now he is saying, that i need to be working, before we can go to trail. We were suppose to start trial, 6 months ago, but more dishonest tactics. Good luck with this team!
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01 Sep, 2015 by Sue
Mike is the great and very caring as a lawyer. My case was unusually long, but Mike was there every step of the way. If I ever need him again I have no hesitation to call or recommend him highly.
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25 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Mike handle my case from the very first call to the last step with dedication. He took charge and when things needed to be done he got them done. My case took a long time, but he did an outstanding job.
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10 Apr, 2022 by Sleepless scribbler
Mr Benedetto represented me in my divorce. My case had international elements, and I had previously consulted another lawyer who told me that even serving my foreign spouse would be very difficult. Mr. Benedetto got this important task done easily and quickly. Right away, he had some creative ideas that I would not have thought of, and that I believe most lawyers would not have thought of. These creative ideas led to a very good settlement for me, whereas less creative thinking would have probably left me with very little.
He was knowledgeable throughout and struck a good balance between consulting me as to what I wished done, but advising me on what would be best. I never felt he forced my hand, but still, he had a way of easing me into what would be most in my interest for me to do. I would say he is a peacemaker at heart, which is not what one expects from a lawyer. But I feel it is the best approach in family law cases, and in my case led to settlement.
The opposing lawyer was always trying to fight, and to escalate situations that were already anger provoking. Mr. Benedetto had a great way of calming the situation at various junctions where, without his input, I think a settlement might have become impossible due to the anger of everyone else involved, including the other lawyer!
Another real plus is that he is very easy to get in touch with. I have heard nightmarish stories from friends who hired other lawyers, who were not responsive to their calls. Mr. Benedetto was very responsive and available. He really made me feel as if my case was special. I'm sure he makes every client feel this way, and I highly recommend him as a great lawyer, ethical person and just an all around good man.
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22 Feb, 2021 by Wilenda bolden
I have dealt with Mr. Cooke for many years. He do his part and I do mine and then the case is signed sealed and closed before you know it.
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16 Feb, 2021 by Sara tanner
I worked with Ted about 15 years ago on a very big case. He was the most attentive and efficient injury lawyer I’ve ever dealt with. His follow ups sometimes were frequently but needed and he won my case in a very short time! Over the past 15 years I have trusted Ted to refer many friends and family; as well as him always being available to answer my questions. I highly recommend him and would definitely work with him again!
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07 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
Ken and his staff were very nice with me. It was very hard for me to talk about my problems and this man and his staff were willing ot listen. He reviewed my medical records and knew more about my condition than many of my doctors do! He won my case and was very helpful. Thank you Ken for your service.
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26 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
His office was slow to keep me updated. He was late to my hearing. He tried calling while racing to my hearing and to prepare me. The call dropped several times. He didn't call before the hearing date to prep me. Once the hearing was over his Assistant Sheila began harassing me for fees owed to them "by agreement." It began with an invoice, an email, then a phone call. I didn't have any money. Very frustrating.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Chris puranen
28 Apr, 2022 by Nicholas kokoris
Jim Branit of Litchfield might be one of the best, toughest and most knowledgeable litigators in Chicago. I've been placing lawyers since 1987 and Branit and Litchfield come very highly recommended by Juristech.
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11 May, 2020 by Eric suarez
21 Apr, 2020 by Ed holstrom
I talked to "Meghan"(not sure the spelling is correct) about a family member (cousin) whose will was being handled with Ames Law. She and I agreed that I could receive a copy of the will. My cousin's last wishes were being carried out by two trusted friends, who checked on him frequently because he was blind and not able to farm or do things for himself. Story behind this is not the issue. I waited 10 business days and no will was mailed so far. I attempted to call on 3 occasions each afew days apart with No return call. (It was the beginning stages of the pandemic so I would've thought the Law staff might be working from home). I the tried to contact by an Email to the Website, again with no response. I thought, "You'd think if they were representing a client or receiving a call from a pertinent question they would be courteous to return call or email. Not professional practice and "rinky dinky" things like, "we'll answer your questions for $50".
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09 Jan, 2020 by Mike clark
Stephanie takes forever, if at all, returning calls. Catching her, "in the office" is next to impossible
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20 Oct, 2019 by Dena cocquit
Kind and caring professional people!
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10 Dec, 2014 by Njspes
When I was hurt on the job it ended my career in the medical field. I was devastated because I had gone back to school at the age of 38 to get my associates and go on to finish school for medical imaging. The paperwork I had to fill out for disability benefits was overwhelming for me, as is was for my husband who did the best he could to help. We were declined twice. That was enough to seek help. M. Bradshaw took charge, showed us what had to be done, walked/talked us through the process and our application was accepted quite fast. Faster than we thought possible. She not only saved our marriage at that point,
but our sanity. Having to go through the governments paperwork is not for someone who is hurting, on medications or hasn't done it before. It's extremely frustrating and time consuming and your efforts can
be dismissed just because you don't have an attorney. It's that simple...Thanks again Margaret.
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12 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
She was totally useless and ripped me off for over $1,000. I am still fighting my case after 2 years, which was misdirected due to her not handling the case properly.
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17 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I have worked with Deborah for more than two decades. I am very impressed with her client dedication and unwavering support and assistance she provides to each and every client she represents. Deborah handles both Social Security Disability claims as well as those injured on the job.
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09 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
She negotiated my claim without my doctors' documents. When I turned down the settlement offer she went to the board and said my answer was "maybe." When I fired her, she ignored my new attorney's request for my file for over six months. She allegedly told one of my doctors that flight crews could not get PTS and said such claims were "bogus."
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18 May, 2020 by Anonymous
This is the worst lawyer you could possibly imagine. I used her for my disability case. She was supposed to contact me a week before the hearing. I never heard from her. I called the office and they told me she would contact me Thursday about my case to discuss it. Then on Thursday the office told me she was busy and would call me next Thursday and my case was on Monday. The office called back and said she won't be able to make the call and to meet her a half hour before the hearing. I had a friend with me that is an RN to give testimony in front of the judge. As for me, I had about 12 concussions and I had some notes with just a few words that were on a couple sticky notes that would mean nothing to anybody else. They had just one or two words to remind me of the different incidents where I got concussions. She got directly in front of me while I was sitting next to my nurse friend, stood above me and demanded twice the 2 sticky notes and told me "you can not go into the hearing with the notes." She didn't know anything about me or my case. We went into the judge's chamber. The judge asked Rachael King, the attorney, questions about me. After about a half I stood up, asked to be excused to use the washroom briefly. I walked out after a minute or two and Racheal told my friend the nurse to tell me that they were done. I didn't have a chance to speak my case to the judge myself. It was suddenly over. I believe this shyster cut me short because she had another client coming in at that time. After hearing this from my nurse friend I was so upset by this I asked the receptionist if I can have a copy of the hearing. I called the law office to complain and was informed she no longer works there. I will be calling the bar association about her and I will try to get her disbarred after they listen to the recording of the hearing. I was easily awarded disability benefits with a fine lawyer at Disparty law firm.
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03 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
A relative referred me to Mr. Galesburg after he represented her in a worker's comp case against a Fortune 500 company and a separate Social Security Disability case--both of which were decided in her favor. She cautioned me that he was "gruff." After speaking to him three times by phone, I assume by gruff she must have meant "sarcastic" and "belligerent."
I asked Mr. Galesburg to represent me in a Social Security Disability appeal for a condition I was hospitalized for nine times in eight years. I had an attorney, but he seemed to be overloaded with cases, returned my calls a week late, and (according to a Social Security administrator) failed to submit a required form naming himself as my legal representative. I explained this to Mr. Galesburg.
Mr. Galesburg explained what burden of proof might influence the Appeals Board. He suggested I contact my last physician, who treated me for four years—dispensing medications which failed to keep me cycling in and out of inpatient hospital care five times during those four years (including three times in one year). The medications caused many seemingly disconnected side effects (uncontrolled weight gain, early onset menopause symptoms, etc.) that were inconsistent with my prior health history. I attributed these as drug side effects that my doctor failed to predict or explain to me.
Despite my abundance of hospital records, Mr. Galesburg felt I needed a current letter from my physician stating my disability was permanent to win my appeal. He advised me to call my physician (whom I had stopped seeing, due to the side effects and failure to improve the underlying condition) to request the letter. Mr. Galesburg also suggested I that apply for food stamps and a "medical green card" (never heard of it) while waiting for my Disability appeal to go to a hearing. He directed me to call him again after accomplishing these two tasks.
I left the voicemail for my doctor, who screens his incoming calls through his voicemail. I applied for welfare assistance at Mr. Galesburg's suggestion and was told I might not qualify unless the Social Security administrators decided I was disabled. Twenty-four hours passed…during which time, while conducting Internet research on disability law, I discovered that another of my doctor's patients had filed a recent lawsuit against him alleging that he gave the wrong diagnosis and drugs, leading to permanent injuries. When I called Mr. Galesburg again, I told him I that I thought this new information meant that support from my former doctor for my Disability appeal was highly unlikely.
Mr. Galesburg began screaming at me for not informing him that my doctor was (quote) "a bad doctor." I told him I had only just learned about the other patient's lawsuit. Mr. Galesburg then began berating me for failing to find "unskilled work," implying that I wanted the Disability income only because I was *shirking* work. (It is hard to hold any job--skilled or unskilled--when you go in and out of the hospital five times in four years, and three times in one year. In fact, I did hold temporary, short-term skilled jobs during that time. I recently signed up for volunteer work because I can’t find paid work. That does not mean my disability is not permanent and recurring.)
Mr. Galesburg then demanded to know why the appeals board should care about my case when "they are getting thousands of disability cases like never before!" The credibility of other Disability petitioners doesn't affect my credibility.
Avoid Stuart Galesburg like the Ebola virus. He’s a belligerent old man who screams at his clients. Can't imagine how badly he comes off in court. No doubt he’ll be looking for someone at another Fortune 500 company with some mysterious, ill-defined back injury real soon. It’s a bigger and easier payday.
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07 Feb, 2023 by Dorothy
The Woods Family hired Michelle to represent us regarding my father’s estate. We personally paid her $1500. She was always last minute and rarely returned telephone calls, messages, or emails. We had to notify the Disciplinary Office regarding her lack of attention to this matter.
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12 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
This lawyer was arrogant, condescending, and full of himself. Because I had enough common sense to get some disability on my own without a lawyer he was unable to help me get the maximum amount in the disability. The reason he doesn't know how to get benefits as well as he claims. SSA told me to get a lawyer to get more money because I wasn't getting enough. Mark claimed that was folk lore. He is not as smart as he "thinks" he is...go with someone who is more knowledgeable in the laws, rules, and regulation regarding SSA. He can get the least amount and I am suppose to praise his efforts because I'm poor and believed to be automatically stupid. He is not very nice.
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04 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Left me without any preparation for the first time seeing the judge. Did not help me at all. Horrible experience and my mother said the same in her case.ty
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25 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
I had a problem with my tenant and hired him to evict because tenant re rented my home to some one else without notifying me. At trial Mr PV failed to notify this to the judge and tenant got to stay there longer.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Social Security & Disability Lawyer Can Do for You
A Social Security and Disability lawyer specializes in helping individuals navigate the complex process of applying for and securing Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. These lawyers assist clients in filing applications, gathering necessary medical evidence, appealing denied claims, and representing them in hearings before administrative law judges. A lawyer can help maximize the chances of approval by ensuring that the paperwork is accurate, deadlines are met, and legal standards are addressed.
If you are disabled and unable to work, or if your Social Security Disability claim has been denied, a Social Security and Disability lawyer can guide you through the legal process to obtain the benefits you’re entitled to.
When Should I Hire a Social Security & Disability Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a Social Security and Disability lawyer in the following situations:
- Applying for SSDI or SSI benefits: The application process for disability benefits can be complex, with strict requirements and documentation. A lawyer can assist in completing the application correctly and submitting the required medical evidence to improve your chances of approval.
- Denied disability claim: If your initial claim for SSDI or SSI benefits has been denied, a lawyer can help file an appeal and represent you in hearings. Many claims are denied initially, and having legal representation during the appeal process significantly increases the chances of success.
- Requesting reconsideration: After an initial denial, you have the right to request reconsideration of your claim. A lawyer can help present new medical evidence or correct any errors in your original application.
- Hearing before an administrative law judge (ALJ): If your reconsideration request is denied, you may request a hearing before an ALJ. A lawyer can represent you during the hearing, preparing you to answer questions and presenting a strong case based on your medical and work history.
- Proving medical conditions: If your disability involves complex medical conditions, a lawyer can help gather expert medical testimony or additional evidence to demonstrate that your condition meets the legal criteria for disability.
- Overpayments and cessation of benefits: If the Social Security Administration (SSA) claims you were overpaid or attempts to terminate your benefits, a lawyer can assist in challenging the decision and protect your right to continue receiving benefits.
- SSI for low-income individuals: If you are applying for SSI, which is based on financial need in addition to disability, a lawyer can help ensure that your financial records are correctly submitted to meet SSA’s strict income and asset limits.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help you avoid mistakes that could delay or jeopardize your claim.
What Does a Social Security & Disability Lawyer Do?
A Social Security and Disability lawyer provides a range of services to help individuals navigate the application and appeals process for SSDI or SSI benefits. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing initial applications: A lawyer can help prepare and file your SSDI or SSI application, ensuring that all necessary forms are completed accurately and medical evidence is included.
- Gathering medical evidence: A lawyer works with your doctors and healthcare providers to collect medical records, treatment histories, and expert opinions to support your disability claim.
- Filing appeals: If your initial application is denied, a lawyer can file an appeal and guide you through the reconsideration process, ensuring that any additional documentation or evidence is provided.
- Representing you in hearings: A lawyer will represent you in front of an administrative law judge, helping you prepare for the hearing and arguing your case to demonstrate that your disability prevents you from working.
- Handling deadlines and paperwork: A lawyer will ensure that all deadlines are met, and that any requests for additional information from the SSA are responded to promptly.
- Negotiating settlements (for private disability insurance claims): If your disability benefits claim involves private disability insurance (in addition to or instead of SSDI/SSI), a lawyer can help negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company.
- Fighting benefit terminations or overpayment claims: If the SSA attempts to terminate your benefits or claims you were overpaid, a lawyer can defend you in administrative proceedings or file for a waiver or reconsideration.
How Are Social Security & Disability Lawyers Paid?
Social Security and Disability lawyers are typically paid on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if your case is successful, either through the approval of your disability benefits or winning an appeal. Here's how it generally works:
- Contingency fee: The fee is usually 25% of your past-due (backpay) benefits, but no more than $7,200. This fee structure is set by the SSA, and lawyers cannot charge more than this amount for SSDI or SSI cases.
- No cost for future benefits: Lawyers are not entitled to any portion of your future monthly disability benefits. Their fee is strictly limited to a percentage of your backpay.
- Additional costs: In some cases, you may need to pay for additional expenses, such as obtaining medical records or expert witness testimony. These costs are usually minimal, but it’s essential to ask your lawyer about any additional expenses upfront.
It’s essential to confirm fee arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation to avoid misunderstandings.
How Much Does a Social Security & Disability Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a Social Security and Disability lawyer is typically structured around the contingency fee system outlined by the SSA. General cost information includes:
- Contingency fee: The lawyer’s fee is capped at 25% of your backpay, with a maximum of $7,200. For example, if you are awarded $10,000 in backpay, the lawyer will receive $2,500 (25%), and you will receive the remaining $7,500.
- No cost for future benefits: Lawyers are not entitled to any portion of your future monthly disability benefits. Their fee is strictly limited to a percentage of your backpay.
- Additional costs: In some cases, you may need to pay for additional expenses, such as obtaining medical records or expert witness testimony. These costs are usually minimal, but it’s essential to ask your lawyer about any additional expenses upfront.
Overall, there is no financial risk in hiring a Social Security and Disability lawyer, as they only get paid if your case is successful.
Top Questions to Ask a Social Security & Disability Lawyer
Before hiring a Social Security and Disability lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with Social Security Disability cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling SSDI and SSI cases similar to yours, particularly if you have a complex medical condition. -
How do you charge for your services?
Confirm that the lawyer charges a contingency fee and that you won’t owe any fees unless your claim is successful. Ask if there are any additional costs for medical records or other expenses. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and the potential challenges you may face. -
How long will the process take?
Disability claims can take time, especially if you’re appealing a denial. Ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what the typical timeline is for cases like yours. -
How will you help me prepare for my hearing?
If your case is going to a hearing before an administrative law judge, ask the lawyer how they will help you prepare for testimony and present your medical evidence effectively. -
What happens if I’m denied again?
Ask about the next steps if your reconsideration or appeal is denied, including the possibility of further appeals to federal court.
How to Check the Credibility of a Social Security & Disability Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable Social Security and Disability lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for Social Security experience: Review the lawyer’s website or profile to ensure they specialize in Social Security and Disability law and have successfully handled cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on Social Security Disability matters.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Membership in organizations like the National Organization of Social Security Claimants' Representatives (NOSSCR) can indicate that the lawyer is committed to representing disability claimants.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a Social Security and Disability lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Medical records: Bring copies of your medical records, including doctor’s notes, test results, treatment histories, and any disability-related diagnoses.
- List of medications and treatments: Provide a detailed list of any medications you are taking, treatments you have received, and ongoing medical care related to your disability.
- Denial letters (if applicable): If your disability claim has been denied, bring a copy of the denial letter from the SSA, along with any documentation related to your appeal.
- Work history: Provide information about your previous jobs and work history, including details about how your disability has impacted your ability to work.
- Social Security application (if already filed): If you’ve already submitted an application, bring a copy of the application and any correspondence you’ve had with the SSA.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions you have about the legal process, the lawyer’s fees, and what to expect in terms of timelines and outcomes.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your situation.
