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08 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Tracy Miller was outstanding in helping me become approved for disability. Both she and her assistant, Tiffany, were the utmost in professionalism and always promptly responsive. Ms. Miller was recommended to me by another attorney with a strong reputation, so my expectations were high. She met all of them, and I do not hesitate to recommend her. So thankful that I found Tracy and Tiffany.
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30 Jun, 2023 by Don
Tracy Tyson Miller and Tiffany get 100 percent positive feedback on the following :
Courtesy, consultation and advice, knowledge,
support, communication and listening
I would recommend her to anyone who needs legal aid
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29 Jun, 2023 by John
Tracy Miller was recommended by my Dr, after becoming unable to work in the summer of 2021. She helped with all the initial paperwork and was very professional. After being denied, she filed for an appeal. She took care of everything. After a year and 8 months I was approved. Thank you Tracy and Tiffany!!
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06 Feb, 2023 by Michelle
I called Chris in desperate need to get justice for my Dog . My poor baby was taken to An emergency er for treatment to save his life . The treatment I paid for that night, was never preformed . My dog passed . Chris is not permitted to do pets , That didn’t stop Chris . He went on to guide me in the direction ,so I can get help . Thank you Chris .
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28 Dec, 2018 by Doretha
I would highly recommend Chris Johns for any Legal services needed. He and his team were very helpful and compassionate. I could not have gone through a traumatic experience without him .
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28 Dec, 2018 by Erica
My experience with lawyer chris john was EXCELLENT. He is very professional, very respectable..he gave me hope and made my worries on my case go away. I think this fine lawyer was god sent. I would indeed recommend him to those who need a lawyer...if i could rate him 10 stars i would.
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23 Sep, 2019 by Richard
Mr.Israel and his paralegal Brenda were an amazing team.. They both went above and beyond to help guide me through the process of my case... Every question and concern I had they answered perfectly...They explained and walked me through every process step by step.....I cant say enough good thing about Brenda and Mr.Israel....i would recomend them to anybody...
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13 Dec, 2016 by Robin
I would like to share a recent experience I had with Mr. Israel.
While employed as a police officer, I was injured on the job which resulted in me being placed on worker's compensation. After several months of extensive delays by the w/c insurance company, a surgical procedure and extensive rehabilitation, I retained Mr. Israel to represent me in this matter.
Mr. Israel is a very dedicated, competent and professional lawyer. In addition, Mr. Israel is a very warm and genuine person who provided excellent advice and made himself available to me for office visits, phone calls and e-mails as requested.
Mr. Israel is very knowledgeable of the law and especially the laws which he specializes in. Mr. Israel's commitment to me and my legal matters resulted in an expedient and positive result.
Again, I would highly recommend Mr. Israel for anyone in need of representation.
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08 Aug, 2016 by Ana
Mr. Israel is an amazing lawyer. He is professional , smart, hard working and very kind . His office staff are very polite, sweet and servicial . Without Mr. Israel's help I would not be able to go through the legal battle with workman's comp.
I am very grateful for the job he did for me . I trust him very much and I would recommend him to any one without any hesitation.
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27 Oct, 2021 by Carolyn s.
I cannot speak highly enough about Kaitlin. She is a kind, caring, thorough attorney.
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14 Oct, 2021 by Melissa arnold
Kaitlin, is a outstanding attorney she stayed in contact with me through the whole process she is compassionate and shows she cares and kept fighting for me I highly recommend her you want go wrong with this law firm Thank you to you and your staff
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26 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
It was my great fortune to have found and hired Ms Kaitlin Wildoner to represent me in my disability case. It was a long and frustrating struggle before I came in contact with Ms Wildoner. Throughout the process, both Ms Wildoner and her legal assistant, Riza Beck, kept me informed of every development. Ms Wildoner guided me through all the paperwork and phone calls, including up to my Hearing before the Administrative Law Judge. Ms Wildoner’s expertise is a cut above the rest. Don’t look anywhere else......
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27 Apr, 2017 by Alicecer
Mr. Feifer was the most dedicated and knowledgeable professional that you could ever want to come in contact with. He kept me abreast of each step in the process and what I should expect from each step. Mr. Feifer always returned calls. He never left me guessing. I hope that I never need him again but if I do; I will not hesitate in calling his firm.
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23 Aug, 2016 by Madison
The insurance company denied my case saying it was a personal condition. I called 4 other firms who turned me down. Mr. Feifer took my case telling me it may not work out. It took some time but I did get a recovery that paid off the medical bills I had incurred. Thankful for that!!
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22 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Feifer turned my case around after one of the associates with his firm made me lose faith in the process. I was about to fire the firm until they reassigned the case to Mr. Feifer., He responded to my telephone calls after hours and even when he was on vacation. He was truthful with me from the onset as to the pitfalls of the law but fought hard at mediation to get me $10,000 more at mediation after the insurance company relayed their final offer. Even the mediator told me he was amazed by this result. Eddie Farah is lucky to have him on his team.
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13 Mar, 2017 by Jeremy
Jason was very attentive to my wife's social security case. He was the only attorney in Jacksonville to accept her case. Every attorney denied her due to her age. Jason not only took her case and gained a favorable outcome he listened when no one else would. Thank you Jason!
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09 Feb, 2017 by David
After a career ending OJI, My Jason Ellis represented me and went above and beyond on my case. Mr Ellis along with his Super Paralegal Dee always kept me informed and updated on what was going on with my case. Very quick to respond to E Mails and phone calls for even the simplest worries! Even though he faced a large company filled with their attorneys, He never showed a lack of confidence. He will be my first call if I'm ever in need again! Go Gators!
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03 Dec, 2015 by Dennis & faith
My wife and I have retained JASON ELLIS to represent us on two separate occasions. My wife was involved in an auto accident in which an out of town driver was at fault. Though both drivers were insured, the other driver's (who was cited) insurance company declined the claim. After we exhausted all attempts to resolve this, we were referred to Mr. Ellis by a close friend who had previously retained his services with excellent results.
Mr. Ellis worked hard on my wife's behalf and we were able to obtain a settlement that exceeded our expectations.
Last year I was injured by careless construction workers who effecting repairs on a condo that adjoins ours. My injuries required surgery and an extended period of PT. I also sustained a permanent injury that will require longterm attention. I retained Mr. Ellis, and this case is in the final stages of a settlement that I am more then pleased with.
Mr. Ellis is loyal and exhibits a personal interest in his clients' wellbeing that far exceeds the perceived industry standards.
We would BOTH recommend "Jason" to anyone seeking a hard driving professional that will go above and beyond to insure that his clint(s) are represented to the fullest extent of the law...
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03 Aug, 2017 by Lee
Marcella is one of the most caring, compassionate, honest attorneys I have ever dealt with. After having a horrible experience with a probate attorney 11 years ago, I met Marcella to complete my own will and legal documents. She was a breath of fresh air and made me realize just how dishonest the other attorney had been with my family at the time of my parents deaths. Thank God for honest attorneys like Marcella. I recommend her all the time and would never use anyone else for my estate planning.
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19 Jul, 2017 by Freddie
I 'm from out of state residing temporarily in corporate apartments and was in need of a Power of Attorney. Thank goodness there was a neighborhood lawyer less than a mile away that provided the service that I needed, Mrs./Miss Marcella was that lawyer. She even answered by e-mail on Sunday afternoon concerning my POA.. The next day after work my POA was ready and my wife was very happy when she received the POA the next following day. Also a UPS Store was in the neighborhood. Now how convenient is that. Two birds with one stone. If you live around the Town Square Market at River city in Jacksonville you are very lucky to have this Lawyers service at your door step. By all means please stop in and give her a visit.
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15 Feb, 2016 by Amanda
There are always two sides to every story, as indicated by the reviews and responses. I can only give you my perception and outcome from my dealings with Mrs. Taylor. First, I called to schedule an appointment with a "lawyer for people with limited income" and the fee was $295 per hour, now let me assure you I have never paid that amount of money in any of my appointments with Mrs. Taylor. Now, I'm sure someone will say, "you get what you pay for", in this case, I would say, "Board certified". In my opinion, Mrs. Taylor simplifies everything by telling you the bottom line. I would recommend Mrs. Taylor and if she isn't able to return your call right away, call again or better yet pay $300 or more per hour for the same law advice. In addition, I have in the past called for legal advice in which I will not mention names and I still have not heard back. In conclusion, Mrs. Taylor is, in my opinion, an honest and caring person with years of attorney experience. She is the first lawyer you should call if she can't help you she will tell you.
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30 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I would recommend Tom Mr Farrell and his team to anyone. Very gracious,knowledgeable, kind and considerate. His experience dealing with issues such as mine is remarkable. He takes care of every need and problem that may arise. I can not say how pleased I am with his representation.
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14 Dec, 2017 by Robert
Mr. Ferrell was amazing, specific, professional, courteous and most important in today's world trustworthy. If he says it will get done it does.His staff is wonderful and helpful. I would put my claim in no one else's hands.
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22 Aug, 2021 by Andrew
I was in law enforcement for 21 years when I needed to find a reputable and knowledgeable attorney, due to a complex Worker's Comp issue. Attorney Amie DeGuzman from our first meeting the took the time to listen to my needs and issues and in my opinion treated me not as a client, but someone she sincerely wanted to help find justice.
My case was complex to say the least and Worker's Comp was not making it any easier during the process. Attorney DeGuzman immediately started dealing with Worker's Comp as well as my employer, who had all but left me in the wind after 21 years of service and really would not convey any reliable information. Amie would call to check on me during this time and give me periodic and detailed updates to my case. Attorney Deguzman was eventually able to get me what was owed when Worker's Comp was trying to use stall tactics and misinformation throughout the process to deny my claim.
At my 22 year mark in law enforcement the Florida Retirement System granted me an "In the Line of Duty" retirement. Although I would have loved to continue working; however my situation would not allow it, due to my overall health deteriorating. Amie not only represented me during my Worker's Comp case she was also there for my "Line of Duty Retirement."
I'm still in the process of dealing with Worker's Comp, but having Amie by my side and the law firm of "John J. Rahaim II @www.jaxlegalhelp.com" representing me helps ease the anxiety and stress which gives me a sense of relief while I endure this arduous process. To date; some 2 years later Amie still calls on a regular basis to give updates on my case and on a personal note to check on my overall health (what attorney would take the time out of their day to do that?)
Even though I am still in the process of dealing with this case I would unequivocally recommend Amie DeGuzman. She is knowledgeable, loyal, forthcoming with information and truly shows compassion and empathy for her clients; which you typically do not get out of your average attorney.
Amie and John thank you for your service!!!!!
Do your research, but definitely reach out to (www.jaxlegalhelp.com) if you are wanting to not feel like a number or just a nobody. John and Amie both having been nothing short of amazing during this process.
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13 Sep, 2016 by Mac
Ms. DeGuzman of the Law Offices of John Rahaim assisted in representing me in connection with a workman’s comp claim. She is very professional and knowledgeable in the field of workman’s comp issues. Ms. DeGuzman assisted with my deposition and made sure I was aware of what was going on throughout the case. Ms. DeGuzman showed compassion and concern for her client. Ms. DeGuzman was always quick to follow up with any questions or concerns I had.
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12 Sep, 2018 by Nichole james
From the first day I picked up the phone and spoke with Ms.NG she was on top of my case. She worked very hard and looked into everything tht could help me win my case. I am so thankful for her.
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20 Apr, 2017 by Kathryn
The most amazing lawyer ever! Nicole Coutu has got to be the best lawyer in the world. She has been with me every step of the way since I was very badly injured when another driver ran a red light back in November 2016. What started off as a horrifying nightmare, Nicole turned into a fairytale dream come true, a definite happy ending to all of the suffering that occurred. She's been with me through countless doctors appointments, surgery, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and through my entire recovery. Thank you so much Nicole for standing with me this entire way and continuing to make sure I was well taken care of. I am so pleased with everything and so thankful that Nicole at Harrell and Harrell gave me hope to push through as I recovered from a broken wrist and ankle. I may have a screw in my wrist for the rest of my life to repair the break that the other driver caused, but I can definitely say...if you don't want other lawyers to "screw around" with your time, CHOOSE Nicole Coutu!
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20 May, 2017 by Walter
Mr. Horne was very up front with what we could expect and with what our potential expenses would be. He let us know if there COULD be additional expenses based on circumstances and what those additional expenses MIGHT be. I highly recommend this gentleman for your legal needs.
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30 Oct, 2013 by Jill
Jack and his team made our adoption process so easy. Their compassion, knowledge, and honesty was so comforting for both us and our son's birth parents. Jack and his team fully explained and held our hands through the entire adoption process and ensured all parties were comfortable with decisions we were making. Thank you Jack!
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01 Dec, 2022 by Chip foreacre
We have been so working with Robert George for many years. He is an outstanding person! Yes, an excellent attorney! He has guided us thru all of our experiences of being entrepreneurs. It’s been an outstanding relationship!
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19 Nov, 2021 by Rob howard
Have been dealing with Ryan Mittauer, Esq. for months on a judgement collection issue.
Very professional and courteous. Great legal knowledge and constant communication.
Exactly what you would want in an attorney.
Paralegal Alexis Perry is friendly and accommodating.
I cannot speak for other attorneys as I have not used them in a professional capacity, but the firm has a good reputation for results.
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21 Dec, 2023 by Tye scott
Words can’t express how thankful I am for Jason Woodside Law. Fantastic team
20/10!!!
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27 Oct, 2023 by Selina l
Great services working hard to help in my accident to get me back healed from accident and to get vehicle repaired!! Will recommend for your accident needs!!
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04 Oct, 2023 by Amanda boo
To high when u need a lawyer
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26 Aug, 2024 by Taz l.d.g.
This my 2nd time having Farah and Farah represent me again I had no complaints. Thank you again.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Duval boundj
Great team i love the communication and the help they provide cant ask for more thank you
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22 Aug, 2024 by Caitlin longerbean
Farah & Farah are great! My Case Manager is awesome and super sweet. Very fast at communication and explains things clearly for me. My lawyer is fast acting and I 100% know they have my back. Would and have recommended them to others.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Tracy libby
Tim Miller did a great job handling our case! He kept us informed and explained everything so we were prepared for each step. He represented us with professionalism and our outcome was a success!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Mark
Great team that worked on my case. Many hurdles that were handled very professionally.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie callam
Stephen and Zach were amazing to work with. They kept me informed and worked for the best possible outcome. Very caring and attentive! I definitely recommend this firm.. Thank you!!!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Taz l.d.g.
This my 2nd time having Farah and Farah represent me again I had no complaints. Thank you again.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Duval boundj
Great team i love the communication and the help they provide cant ask for more thank you
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22 Aug, 2024 by Caitlin longerbean
Farah & Farah are great! My Case Manager is awesome and super sweet. Very fast at communication and explains things clearly for me. My lawyer is fast acting and I 100% know they have my back. Would and have recommended them to others.
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11 Nov, 2021 by Pamela duncan
✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ Bradford Stackhouse is an aggressive attorney who gets the job done…
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06 Nov, 2021 by Luvthelost1990 travis
Mr. Stackhouse and his team have all four of the above listed. They were always there for their clients no matter what and if they were not available they would reach out as soon as they could. I would recommend them to any friend that needed a lawyer. Even after all is settled, they still answer the phone if I have a question or a referral to another type of lawyer.
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14 Aug, 2021 by Desirae perona
I cannot thank Brad, Adam, & Sarah enough for the team’s great work! This was my first accident for my adult life & let me say, the Stackhouse Law team made it a breeze to go through. I hope to never have this experience again, but I will always call Brad for help. I was always updated, even when the status of the case hadn’t really changed due to other reasons. I was always given clear, accurate, & understandable information about my case. Most importantly, I was never misguided. The team stayed on top of everything - showing professionalism & being 100% upfront. In the end, the team was more than successful in helping me achieve a better outcome. I highly recommend this firm for your Personal Injury needs!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Tracy libby
Tim Miller did a great job handling our case! He kept us informed and explained everything so we were prepared for each step. He represented us with professionalism and our outcome was a success!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Mark
Great team that worked on my case. Many hurdles that were handled very professionally.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie callam
Stephen and Zach were amazing to work with. They kept me informed and worked for the best possible outcome. Very caring and attentive! I definitely recommend this firm.. Thank you!!!!
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08 May, 2024 by Hunter n
That man Keith is a legend. The way he commands a court room is something to be seen. He is captivating in the way he speaks and eloquent in his wording. Me and my brother had a long case but Keith helped us get to a resolution that will let us both not stress about any care in the foreseeable future. Keith will fight for you. I cant recommend him and his firm enough.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Rob clark
Sound like they're great attorneys
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08 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer b
I definitely will you not recommend using this attorney for auto accidents if licensed in Georgia. A lack of customer service and timelessness.
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08 May, 2024 by Hunter n
That man Keith is a legend. The way he commands a court room is something to be seen. He is captivating in the way he speaks and eloquent in his wording. Me and my brother had a long case but Keith helped us get to a resolution that will let us both not stress about any care in the foreseeable future. Keith will fight for you. I cant recommend him and his firm enough.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Rob clark
Sound like they're great attorneys
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08 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer b
I definitely will you not recommend using this attorney for auto accidents if licensed in Georgia. A lack of customer service and timelessness.
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07 Feb, 2023 by Dj conger
Jackie helped me recover one year of disability when I needed most. It was a lot of work for her with little gain. Forever grateful to her. She's an amazing attorney and friend.
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02 Feb, 2023 by Linda brown
Jackie has always been helpful and friendly. I've had no issues with anything that I needed her assistance with. Terrific person!!
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02 Feb, 2023 by John murrill
Jackie Green is a hard-working, honest, Christian attorney with years of experience. She has the knowledge and the heart to represent you and do a good job.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Bonnie johns
28 Aug, 2024 by Michael curry
I am very pleased with the service that was provided by Harrell and Harrell from everyone that works there I definitely appreciate them and also recommend them to anyone looking for a good lawyers firm…. 5 stars to everyone especially Mr.Mark Papa and Patricia Hogwood and Stephanie Centeno….
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26 Aug, 2024 by Candie gatson
Stephanie is a very caring person not just attorney. Mark made sure I got something for my pain and suffering. Thank you both
Sincerely
Mrs. Sarah Luqman
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05 Sep, 2024 by Bonnie johns
28 Aug, 2024 by Michael curry
I am very pleased with the service that was provided by Harrell and Harrell from everyone that works there I definitely appreciate them and also recommend them to anyone looking for a good lawyers firm…. 5 stars to everyone especially Mr.Mark Papa and Patricia Hogwood and Stephanie Centeno….
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26 Aug, 2024 by Candie gatson
Stephanie is a very caring person not just attorney. Mark made sure I got something for my pain and suffering. Thank you both
Sincerely
Mrs. Sarah Luqman
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22 Dec, 2020 by Paul
Jessica Dumas and her staff were outstanding throughout the whole process. Both the service I received and the level of communication, from beginning to end, were top notch. Everyone that I dealt with was so friendly. They were just amazing.
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15 Sep, 2020 by Curtis
Ms. Dumas and her firm worked hard for me and got my disability claim approved. Everyone I worked with was always polite and so friendly. They were honest about what to expect in the process of filing for disability.
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30 Dec, 2019 by Marcie
Real truth! I kept seeing 444’s everywhere. I was praying for a lawyer because I needed professional help. Although I was physically delivering my paperwork at the disability office, I was being told that the paperwork wasn’t being received timely and/or I missed the deadline Via denials. It was stressful to complete by myself! I decided I needed representation. One day I watching TV. On TV there was a commercial for an attorney that also said their contact was 444-444-4444. I called the number they advised because they couldn’t rep me. However, they suggested Jessica Dumas! I gave her office a call, I provided the needed information. The girl call me back and advised Jessica Dumas said yes they can rep me in my case on January 23rd 2020. They sent me the paperwork via USPS! When I got it, i took all my paperwork, medication and etc that I had collected since 2016 when I started applying for disability, after my mom passed away and I became ill, I was stressed and in constant chronic pain after having a major back Infusion surgery due to Arthritis, degenerative disc, spinal issues, back, leg, & neck pain. Which is the reason I’m applying for disability! Well, to make a longer story short...after accepting my case in October of 2019, Jessica Dumas is now saying she won’t....not that she can’t....she said she won’t represent me! I feel...the only reason I can think that she won’t is because when her office sent me two sets of papers via mail to take to my doctors to fill out & complete! I inquired & asked her when she finally called me, after two months, why couldn’t her office have sent the paperwork directly to the Drs...Jessica became offended it seemed!!! She Then advised me that she doesn’t think she can represent me abruptly!!! The reason I am reviewing her is that the 2 months her & her office sat on my case & didn’t do a thing, something could’ve been done! But here at crunch time & close to my court date she advised me she will not represent me! I feel like she got cold feet! I am so disappointed in Jessica Dumas & her law firm right now! Everything that was promised didn’t happen! The young lady that helped me when I first walked in to meet her & her team (In the office to the right when you walk into her law firm)and take the paperwork in advised me of the steps. She said someone would call me to get other evidence, to disgust the case, talk about the court date and more! However, none of that happened! Why would her law firm take the case if they couldn’t handle it! I could have continued searching & looking for another Lawyer! Now I’m very close to the court date with no representation! In all of this timeframe(2 months) of hiring Jessica Dumas..... I met Jessica Dumas the day I initiated it by dropping by the paperwork myself voluntarily at her office after she accepted to represent me in court and I really only spoke to her the day via phone when she advised me she will not take my case! So basically I was in contact with her twice out of two months! She did send me a letter that I need to get representation ASAP...well DUH!!! The letter also states I do not owe her anything....DUH again! This was Not a good client/ attorney relationship/privilege from the start.....aka A RED FLAG! How could she??? Why is bad always present when you trying to do the right thing?
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16 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Sharon was incredibly motivated, but obviously operating under very immense stress levels. My case was very high conflict with many complexities, but Sharon often seemed annoyed when I asked for advice. In the short time she represented me, she frequently complained that she would rather be doing anything else than deal with my case. This made it very difficult for me to approach her with anything, and the working relationship quickly deteriorated. Regardless, I really liked her, and I believe Sharon is a good attorney. I still sincerely wish we could have worked things out. I think maybe she has just reached the burnout level in her career and should consider retiring or doing mediation full-time instead.
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27 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
He told me I would never get approved for Disability and he did almost nothing at all. I did all the work. I got all the med records. I arranged evals with specialists on my own and got them to prepare reports. I talked to retired SS Disability judges who told me I could go back 3-4 years. He told me I could not. AJ hearing. He said nothing. Did nothing. In presented my case, answered questions of judge. Was approved and got the 3-4 years or arrearage also. So my payout was quite large. Which meant he got a huge percent. He was so excited $$$$.. But did no work to earn that money. Just kept telling me I would be denied and did not work to get evidence to prove. I did my own research, got others to help me. He is a parasite, lazy and makes money off other's misfortunes. Win some, lose some. He makes money.
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13 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
I was terminated while at Brooks rehab. My short term disability was stopped. He had my short term disability reinstated. So my long term disability would not be affected.
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28 Jul, 2018 by Jeff
Mr. Berger is an excellent disability appeals attorney. He appealed my case and obtained the back pay the company owed me as well as having my monthly benefits reinstated. I highly recommend him.
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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.
