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Warren Anthony Pulley, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
32,03
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
1 Reviews
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10 Jun, 2017 by Kd
The Lawyer I went with retired so Warren took over her cases. I had major surgery in 1.25.2015 a plate and 4 pins on my L4-L5 no a success. Had to hire a lawyer due to my work not providing me a stand up work station, not by choice. Warren is a well mannered nice guy but my case is still dragging. The red tape getting reports, straight answers from Drs, Physical Therapist etc... is really time and emotionally draining. That said I feel he needs to light fires up into Drs and others to get my case going. All said and done more communication would give him five stars.
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Anthony Gerald Ratto, experienced Personal Injury, Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 134 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,93
star star star star star
4.2/5
Avvo
4.0
1 Reviews
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4.2
133 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Feb, 2025 by Dee tee
Ryan did his big one on my settlement. It was more than expected and done in a timely manner. Ryan was my second lawyer here after my first one left the firm. There may be some turnover with the staff but it worked out well in the end.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Luis martinez
Quiero darle las Gracias Al Sr. Abogado Ratto y su Equipo, Hicieron un buen trabajo en mi caso. Se los Recomiendo, Muchas Gracias...
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25 Sep, 2024 by Peter ratto
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Brendean Kelly Luce, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 56 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,31
star star star star star
4.7/5
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4.7
56 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Nov, 2024 by John knightly
The team at Summerall Law made our trust planning process seamless and straightforward. They were efficient and helpful with all of our questions. They provided clear pros/cons that helped us weigh different options and saved us many hours.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Emily real
Used for our will and trust. Excellent attorneys, was super easy
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03 Oct, 2024 by Greg mullins
They made this process of making a living trust very easy seamless and painless! The wife and I asked each other why we waited so long to do it. Very easy to deal with and also great communication! I would highly recommend using their service.
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Matthew Evan Hersh, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 55 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,31
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
55 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by Jessica cheng
I highly recommend Tanya at Hunter Pyle Law! She is amazing to work with. Throughout the stressful recovery process from my accident, Tanya and her team handled all the details behind the scenes, making everything so much easier. I can't recommend her enough!
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17 Oct, 2024 by Bryan lucas
I had the distinct pleasure of working with Jake Darin and the incredible team at Hunter Pyle over the past few months, and I truly can’t sing their praises enough. As someone navigating the legal world for the first time, I was unsure of my options and overwhelmed by the complexities. But from day one, Jake and his team were not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also deeply attentive and communicative. Jake walked me through every step, demystified the entire process, and empowered me to make the best decisions… Ultimately leading to a settlement that exceeded my expectations. I now have complete trust in Jake and the firm, and it’s a huge relief knowing I have them in my corner if I ever need legal counsel again. A heartfelt thanks to everyone at Hunter Pyle!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tram bui
I can’t say enough about their professional and wonderful services! I’m lucky to find Tanya as our lawyer to represent my family member in an employment case. With her knowledge, patient and intelligent, she was able to get a very good settlement for us! I’m so happy and greatly appreciated what she did. I highly recommend her to anyone who is looking for a good lawyer to represent them.
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Vicki Nugent Lindquist, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 55 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,31
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
55 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by Jessica cheng
I highly recommend Tanya at Hunter Pyle Law! She is amazing to work with. Throughout the stressful recovery process from my accident, Tanya and her team handled all the details behind the scenes, making everything so much easier. I can't recommend her enough!
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17 Oct, 2024 by Bryan lucas
I had the distinct pleasure of working with Jake Darin and the incredible team at Hunter Pyle over the past few months, and I truly can’t sing their praises enough. As someone navigating the legal world for the first time, I was unsure of my options and overwhelmed by the complexities. But from day one, Jake and his team were not only incredibly knowledgeable, but also deeply attentive and communicative. Jake walked me through every step, demystified the entire process, and empowered me to make the best decisions… Ultimately leading to a settlement that exceeded my expectations. I now have complete trust in Jake and the firm, and it’s a huge relief knowing I have them in my corner if I ever need legal counsel again. A heartfelt thanks to everyone at Hunter Pyle!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tram bui
I can’t say enough about their professional and wonderful services! I’m lucky to find Tanya as our lawyer to represent my family member in an employment case. With her knowledge, patient and intelligent, she was able to get a very good settlement for us! I’m so happy and greatly appreciated what she did. I highly recommend her to anyone who is looking for a good lawyer to represent them.
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Jonathan Miller Brand, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 139 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,70
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
139 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Sep, 2024 by Elias pizano
Today we celebrate a hard-won victory in a challenging case, And the Master mind behind this victory is my incredible attorney !Clayton Robertson! His unwavering dedication and passion for justice are truly inspiring, im so lucky to have you by my side in this difficult case, If you need a Legal Champion who will fight for you with heart and soul look no further, "Clayton Robertson" is a Top-notch Legal Professional who truly cares for you. For being a Shining Star in the Legal world and truly frien to me, you deserve all the Accolades and More! #Grateful Client... #Exceptional Attorney ...! #Legal Rockstar.....!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Guerra guerra
Gracias un equipo profesional e eficiente se los recomiendo 👍
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07 Sep, 2024 by Josie mendoza
I travel to California, presented my case to doctor alex and he kindly listen to all details and was blessed by all the help I received from all his experience.
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Brian Anthony Kreft, experienced Real Estate, Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 133 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,51
star star star star star
4.2/5
Google Maps
4.2
133 Reviews
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06 Feb, 2025 by Dee tee
Ryan did his big one on my settlement. It was more than expected and done in a timely manner. Ryan was my second lawyer here after my first one left the firm. There may be some turnover with the staff but it worked out well in the end.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Luis martinez
Quiero darle las Gracias Al Sr. Abogado Ratto y su Equipo, Hicieron un buen trabajo en mi caso. Se los Recomiendo, Muchas Gracias...
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25 Sep, 2024 by Peter ratto
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Matthew Daniel Haley, experienced Car Accident, Estate Planning attorney in Oakland, CA with 4 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
27,09
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
4.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Aug, 2024 by Al
I was so disappointing to give my case to this law firm I'm just gonna ask you to be careful , And to make sure what are you signing for.
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21 Sep, 2020 by Anna
Mr. Haley has seen me through a personal injury case that took us close to three years to resolve. He was always responsive, gave me his honest opinion, and I always felt that he had my best interest at heart. He prepared me for all meetings with opposing counsel and supported me through all stages of the process. Last but not least, he went to the bat for me with insurance representatives. He clearly is very experienced and has many valuable contacts in the field. I could not have asked for better representation. Thank you!
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09 Jul, 2020 by Mike
Mr. Haley took the time to respond my email and answer my questions in a professional manner. I sent my information to Mr. Haley regarding my incident, and he said he would review the information and get back to me if he thought that I had a valid case.
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Joanne Louise Attard Helvig, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 7 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
23,64
star star star star star
3.9/5
Avvo
3.9
7 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
Joanne has been taking care of my step dads workers compensation case and we have not been able to get ahold of her since MARCH when he was told he won his case and all he had to do is wait for his settlement. I have called endless times, left endless voicemails and have gotten no response. My step dad has terminal cancer so this whole situation left a bad taste in our mouth… especially with it being known his short life expectancy and her being non urgent about getting the settlement distributed. I honestly wouldnt be as frustrated if I could at least get ahold of her, but instead I get bounced to her voicemail and secretary.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Sam m
I initially chose this law firm based on its prominence in my search, leading me to enlist their services for my workers' comp case. In the early stages, their responsiveness and attention to my questions were commendable. However, a notable change occurred after I signed the retainer agreement. Following this, my attempts to contact them through calls or emails remained unanswered. During the first two weeks, they solely submitted the medical report I provided to my insurance company and appointed a treating physician for my case, with no paperwork filed with the court.
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06 Apr, 2021 by Carmen
Joanne is the Bay Area's best workers compensation lawyer. After handling my own case when I came to the end of my abilities to manage and negotiate the matter, my physician recommended this law firm. I am so happy I was able to retain Joanne. She is dedicated to helping the client! She made sure I had the best physicians and treatments available to me. She fought hard for me for every benefit and resolved the matter very successfully. I am very happy with her results. I would recommend Joanne to anyone who has a workers injury.
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Jan Fuchs, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 4 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
21,00
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Oct, 2020 by Kristine ngo
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star star star star star
15 Oct, 2019 by Kiara bryant
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star star star star star
23 May, 2019 by Amanda grill
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Mark Ernest Rubke, experienced Real Estate, Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 2 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,29
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
This is an outstanding no nonsense workmen’s compensation attotney who bring 35+ years experience to his work and it shows! Mark did a free comprehensive workmens compensation phone consultation with me and he also did a 1:1 live meeting with me. Mark cleared up any and all confusion I had on my case. By time I left i had so mich more knowledge about workmen’s compensation law and how the system works. I am very thankful that there are outstanding attorneys of Matk’s calliber who practice in my community. I wanted to hire Mark as my attorney but he encouraged me to try to finish my case first with my current workmen’s compensation attorney. If you want the best that out community has to offer speak with Mark. You will be glad you did!
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29 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I engaged Mr. Rubke in resolving the dissolution of assets between myself and my ex. Mark and I had one initial free consultation and I paid him $1500 retainer to start work. As per what was discussed, I outlined all the assets as well as the proposal of division and organized all the supporting paper trail for him. This was February of 2017. Several weeks went by and I had seen or heard nothing from him. I attempted to contact him by calling and emailing. No communication was returned. One of the assets (house) was to be sold in a couple of months and I still had no document which would have outlined the division of profit from the sale of this asset (as well as all other assets). finally in August (6 months after initial contact) and post the sale of 1 asset (but prior to any future sales), I received a draft agreement which was no better then a boiler plate with both partie’s names added. Nothing in the document addressed any asset by name, any proposal of dividing the asset, pay schedules, etc. Etc. The language was completely generic and unuseable. I attempted to contact him again to get a document that actually outlined a division proposal and listed the assets to be divided but never received anything. In the end I sent him an email stating he was fired and requested that he refund the $1500 which netted me nothing in return. He has declined to do so.
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Fletcher Bernard Brown, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Communication is poor with this office:  1. They are ready to sign up. Right after signing you up, they will tell you that you might not get favorable judgement and comp will be too less. 2. They communicate only by text messages. Do not reply back by emails. 3. They use gmail. In the beginning, my emails went to their spam box. I had to sort the problem out.  4. F.B. Brown’s voicemail is always full and gets disconnected. Sometimes he responds back by text though saying he will get back with answers. But never gets back and never gives straight answers to questions asked. His father hearing representative speaks and speaks but fails to listen to questions or answer them. 5. They cannot setup clients with good doctors. The doctors they set me up messed my medical records and other paper work and were only trying to hook me up on Pain meds and forcing me to go to work though I have spinal damage. They told me they have seen many cases like me. However, they do not explain the condition as it is, because they are extremely busy. When I asked Browns, I am informed my case is denied, it is not possible to change doctors. Even Browns told me to find some job soon by hiding my injury with prospective employer because I might not get favorable judgement and money I will get will be too less. 6. F.R. Brown is expecting/or has a baby now. He is tied up. It’s been more than one month. After few text msgs, missed calls & emails, I receive their response that they will look into my case and reply. Since Feb 2016, he did not reply to my emails. 7. Now they are defining what their job is and what their job is not. Wish they did that before signing me up. Now I do not receive even their WC related advice. I am being forced to accept their terms and move on. 8. Now it appears to me that they are seeking revenge on me (their own client) I am scared that they’ll slip my case juggling too many balls(cases) at once. I am disabled and jobless and incomeless. I got proof all my communication with them and thinking of filing a complaint against them at CalBar Association.
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Dennis Allen Popalardo Jr, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Jun, 2014 by Ace
This was the worst ever experience. I found a good one after I let this one go. He did more damage to my case then good. He failed to file the 132A after I hired him to take care of my case which caused me to lose those benefits because my other attorney told me he failed to file it in a statute of limitations time. He failed to call and return calls. Dealing with his rude secretary over the phone to get anything handled was nothing but a headache. Getting on the phone having to get my own doctors and such approved when it was his job to do. Then getting a 100 thousand dollar lean the day before christmas and having to dispute it. I felt this was a hot mess of an attorney.
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Hillary E. Nakano, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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16 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Is rude No empathy or knowledge of many facets of body ailments Dznt care Makes mistakes The whole firm makes huge mistakes causing prolonged suffering or entirely unhelpful unlike website description I was referred to a different attorney originally at boxer n gerson That attorney left ! They wouldn’t say y . I Fell through cracks somehow then was assigned her not knowing who she was, I agreed I assumed I’d get the best attorney since they already failed me But I believe they are not the best or fighters Just wam bam …… easy is what they like If it’s too hard they don’t have answers nor do they try or they are working WITH work comp Like da makes plea deals with defense The whole system is a joke The firm needs auditing
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David Richard Hirschl, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Tiffany A. Kao, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Thomas Aram Richard, experienced Personal Injury, Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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David Barnett Weltin, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Bert Arnold, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Vance Chang, experienced Business, Personal Injury attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Sean William Morrisroe, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Maria Antonieta Grasso, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Jeffrey Ivan Fettner, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Michael Louis Giachino, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Keith A. Epstein, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Jeffery Vernon Lusich, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Barbara Ann Barry, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Arjuna Hamsa Farnsworth, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Mark Judah Shostak, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Joseph Raphael Montgomery Jr, experienced Workers Compensation attorney in Oakland, CA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Do for You

A workers’ compensation lawyer specializes in helping employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their job to receive the benefits they are entitled to under workers' compensation laws. These lawyers represent injured workers in claims for medical benefits, wage replacement, and other compensation related to workplace injuries or illnesses. They also help when claims are denied, benefits are delayed, or disputes arise with the employer or the insurance company.

Whether you've been injured on the job, developed an occupational illness, or are dealing with a denied workers' compensation claim, a workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the full benefits you deserve.

When Should I Hire a Workers' Compensation Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a workers' compensation lawyer in several situations, especially when complications arise during the claims process or when your rights as an injured worker are being challenged. Some common reasons to hire a workers' compensation lawyer include:

  • Claim denial: If your workers' compensation claim has been denied, a lawyer can help you appeal the decision and represent you in hearings or litigation.
  • Inadequate benefits: If the insurance company offers you a settlement that doesn’t cover your medical expenses, lost wages, or other damages, a lawyer can negotiate on your behalf for a fair amount.
  • Delay in receiving benefits: If your benefits are being delayed, a lawyer can help expedite the process to ensure you receive timely compensation.
  • Permanent disability: If your injury leads to permanent disability (partial or total), a lawyer can help you navigate the more complex process of securing long-term benefits.
  • Retaliation by employer: If your employer retaliates against you for filing a workers' compensation claim (e.g., by firing or demoting you), a lawyer can protect your rights and pursue legal action.
  • Third-party liability: If a third party (e.g., a contractor or equipment manufacturer) was responsible for your injury, a lawyer can help you pursue additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
  • Pre-existing conditions: If your employer or the insurance company claims that your injury is related to a pre-existing condition, a lawyer can help you present evidence showing that the injury was work-related.

Hiring a lawyer early in the process can prevent delays, avoid mistakes, and ensure you receive all the benefits you’re entitled to under workers' compensation law.

What Does a Workers' Compensation Lawyer Do?

A workers' compensation lawyer provides a range of legal services to injured workers, ensuring that they receive the benefits they deserve. Their tasks often include:

  • Filing claims: Helping injured workers prepare and file their workers' compensation claims to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
  • Appealing denied claims: Representing workers whose claims have been denied and guiding them through the appeals process, including hearings and court appearances.
  • Negotiating settlements: Negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
  • Handling disputes: Resolving disputes between the injured worker, the employer, and the insurance company regarding the amount of compensation or the nature of the injury.
  • Coordinating medical evidence: Gathering and presenting medical records, expert testimony, and other evidence to support the workers' compensation claim.
  • Advocating for benefits: Ensuring that injured workers receive all the benefits they’re entitled to, including temporary or permanent disability benefits, vocational rehabilitation, and medical treatment.
  • Filing third-party lawsuits: In cases where a third party is responsible for the injury, a workers' compensation lawyer may also pursue a personal injury lawsuit to recover additional damages.

How Are Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Paid?

Workers' compensation lawyers typically charge a contingency fee, meaning they only get paid if they successfully recover benefits for you. This fee is usually a percentage of the benefits awarded, and the specific percentage is often regulated by state law. Here's how it generally works:

  • Contingency fee: The lawyer's fee is typically between 15% and 25% of the total benefits awarded to you. You don’t have to pay any upfront legal fees, and the lawyer’s fee comes out of the settlement or benefit award.
  • No fee if no recovery: If the lawyer doesn’t recover any benefits for you, you generally don’t have to pay for their services.
  • State regulations on fees: Many states cap the percentage that workers' compensation lawyers can charge, and some states require the fee to be approved by the workers' compensation board or judge.

Be sure to discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will owe if your case is successful.

How Much Does a Workers' Compensation Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a workers' compensation lawyer typically depends on the contingency fee arrangement, meaning the lawyer’s fee will be a percentage of the benefits you receive. General cost estimates include:

  • Contingency fees: Most workers' compensation lawyers charge between 15% and 25% of the total settlement or benefits awarded. For example, if you receive $50,000 in benefits, the lawyer’s fee would range from $7,500 to $12,500.
  • State regulations: Some states limit the percentage that workers' compensation lawyers can charge. In these cases, the fee is usually capped, often at 20% to 25%, depending on state law.
  • Additional costs: Some lawyers may charge for out-of-pocket expenses, such as filing fees, medical records retrieval, and expert witness testimony, though these costs are typically deducted from the settlement after the case is won.

You should always ask for a clear explanation of fees and potential additional costs during your consultation so you understand the financial arrangement.

Top Questions to Ask a Workers' Compensation Lawyer

Before hiring a workers' compensation lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with workers' compensation cases?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, especially if your injury is severe or the case involves disputes.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a contingency fee and whether there are any additional costs you need to be aware of.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including the potential challenges and outcomes.
  4. Have you handled cases like mine before?
    Find out if the lawyer has experience dealing with cases involving similar injuries or disputes, such as denied claims or permanent disability.
  5. How long will the process take?
    While it’s difficult to predict an exact timeline, the lawyer should be able to provide a general estimate based on their experience with similar cases.
  6. Will you personally handle my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of your case. Make sure you know who will be working on your claim.

How to Check the Credibility of a Workers' Compensation Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable workers' compensation 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 and in good standing, with no disciplinary actions against them.
  • Look for workers' compensation experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in workers' compensation law and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s expertise and service.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients who can speak to their experience in workers' compensation cases.
  • Check for professional affiliations: Membership in organizations like the Workers' Injury Law & Advocacy Group (WILG) or local bar association committees on workers' compensation can indicate the lawyer’s commitment to this area of law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a workers' compensation lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Accident report or incident documentation: Bring any documentation related to your workplace injury or illness, including accident reports or notifications to your employer.
  • Medical records: Provide copies of medical records, including treatment notes, doctor’s reports, and any information related to your injury or condition.
  • Employer correspondence: Bring any letters, emails, or forms related to your claim from your employer or the workers' compensation insurance company.
  • Wage and benefits information: Provide information on your wages, benefits, and any lost income due to the injury.
  • List of questions: Prepare questions about your case, the process, costs, and what to expect moving forward.
  • Timeline of events: Prepare a timeline of the incident, your injury, and any medical treatment or communication with your employer and the insurance company.

Being well-prepared for your consultation will allow the lawyer to assess your case more effectively and provide you with the best possible legal advice.

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