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06 Mar, 2024 by Arreolamorales1985
Roy is an absolute amazing person! Very professional and heart felt person. He is very genuine and cares about your well being and satisfaction 100%. I had an atty before Roy and it had been 3 weeks and my car had not been fixed by the at fault company. I was referred to Roy and no pressure consult and gave me a lot of good insight and is very knowledgable. I decided to sign the contract right there and my car was in the shop in a matter of days! He has a very "get it done" way of doing things and he's awesome! I settled and was very surprised and content with my settlement and my husband is in the process and we are grateful for Roy's commitment and generosity and hard work!! I would recommend him to with 100% confidence that anyone would be thankful and pleasantly pleased with Roy's services.
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25 Aug, 2018 by Collin
If you're sitting at home after an auto accident wondering who the best lawyer on earth is, look no further. Roy Fernandez answers your calls, if you don't reach him and you leave them a message he calls you back almost immediately. He got me the maximum amount possible for my auto injury. I cannot express how amazing my experience was with Roy, and I must give credit to his assistant Gretchen Boch. So professional, and Incredibly good at their job.
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13 Apr, 2018 by Janet
I was referred to Roy after being injured in an auto accident by an uninsured motorist. Navigating the insurance claims process on top of trying to get care for my injury was SO difficult, confusing and intimidating (especially since the driver that hit me was uninsured). I could not have asked for a better advocate or more compassionate and knowledgeable guide. Roy’s understanding of how the Insurance companies work, and his savvy in navigating the process on my behalf were impressive and gave me SO much comfort at a really difficult, scary time. He communicated well and sensitively at all times during the process.
Roy is truly one of the good guys. A total Ace, but on your side :). And at the same time, just a really kind, caring person. He was truly a gift to me in a very difficult year, and stood up for me when it was really hard to know how to stand up for myself in a complicated system. Thank you, Roy!!!
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14 Feb, 2018 by Beth
After I was injured in an auto accident I was at a loss as to how to handle my medical care, the vast amount of paperwork and insurance companies. Jim Dwyer was recommended to me. I never thought I would hire a lawyer but after speaking with Jim I knew I was in excellent hands and needed his help. Jim educated and prepared me for every step towards settling my case. He is honest, experienced and caring. His communication is excellent - he was always available to answer my questions and clearly explained the legal processes I was going through.
It is refreshing to find someone that is so professional and caring at the same time. Most of all, I felt that he was looking after my best interest from my first call to the end of my case. Jim saw me through a difficult time and I am forever grateful that I had him as my lawyer.
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28 Aug, 2015 by Cody salaz
Jim is such a great lawyer to work with! Dealing with legal issues can be a scary thing but Jim made everything so much easier. Not to mention he is such a genuinely kind person, so I never felt like I was just another client. He was very professional and made sure that everything was covered so that I received what was owed to me for my case. I'm so glad to have worked with Jim Dwyer. I recommend him highly!
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26 Dec, 2014 by Phoebe
Jim helped me tremendously after an auto accident this past year, and turned the experience into a smooth and timely process. The combination of his expertise and honest care makes Jim an excellent lawyer, who gives trustworthy advice and attentive support to his clients. We are lucky to have such a great lawyer in Portland!
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20 Mar, 2021 by Laura
I've dealt with a lot of attorneys and Bennett is one of the few that was able to review my case with an open mind. He was able to give me realistic expectations and was empathetic to the "employee" in a worker's comp claim. Unfortunately it appears that I missed the filing deadline to move forward with my claim. However, I wish the hearings office would have let me know that before they even scheduled the hearing. Even after all that, Bennett was kind in breaking the bad news to me and I would call him back in a nanosecond if I ever find myself in another work comp situation and refer anyone who would listen to him and his firm! Thank you Bennett!
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06 Jan, 2019 by Jj
When you retain an Attorney, especially a Worker Compensation Attorney, you want an Attorney who is knows the Law, defends your rights, and is there when you need to speak to them. I just described Mr. Dalton, who is your Attorney for the legal issues, who is a Counselor during your legal fight for the due benefits, and a friend when needed during the legal process.
All of the attributes described above define Mr. Bennett Dalton, as he will be yout Attorney, your Counselor, and your Friend during your legal fight, which are attributes needed to win the legal fight for your Rights and Benefits under Worker Compensation Laws!
I contacted Mr. Dalaton on a matter related to Police Officers and Firefighters who suffer a Line of Duty Injury and he was available 24/7 and was very helpful in providing information and guidance with our legal matters but unfortunately our issues were not in his legal practice but did provide directional information that helped us to follow the correct legal parh. Just a final note, Bennett is an Attorney who has Integrity, which is a trait not seen in every licensed some attorneys!
If and when you contact Mr. Dalton you will be retaining an Attorney that will represent you and achieve the Benefits you worked for as an Oregon Injured Employee!
Respectfully,
JJ
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15 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Bennett was very prompt to respond to my emails and his responses were not abrupt like an attorney that I had previously spoken to. We have decided to contact him for a consult.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Eric
I hired David to defend a contested restraining order that I had petitioned on an abusive person in my life, successfully. I had spoken with several offices prior to our initial phone call. Some wanted me to put down a substantial retainer before I even got to speak with one of their lawyers, some seemed eager to have me pay a relatively inexpensive rate for a quick sale on a newer/inexperienced attorney, and some needed to charge me a few hundred for the initial consultation. A couple of others gave me a free consultation but it didnt seem that they had a niche in the particular type of restraining order I had petitioned. While I respect that there are myriad business models out there, David's appealed to me because his initial consultation was free to hear me out (before I knew that I wanted to hire him), he immediately spoke with competence and wisdom regarding the particulars of my case, and his "flat fee" model was unique and attractive. His price seemed fair in the end (I could have spent less, I could have spent more) but was well justified by his experience. The fact that this case may have been dragged out into additional hours was eased by me knowing that I would never be charged for anything extra regardless of how long it took. It is my understanding that many attorneys will nickel and dime you to hire them for additional "surprise" hours and may even lie/pressure you about the false need for it, but David (who is aware of the ill-perception of attorney practices) found a creative flat-fee solution to control for this. The flat-fee structure means that he sees the job through to the end regardless of how long it takes. You know that one honest mechanic that you recommend to all of your peers because it seems that every other one out there has a history of trying to sell you extra services that you didnt need but were naive about? Well David can well be compared to that honest mechanic but for the world of lawyers. He seemed to have had an "indie" vibe to him as opposed to the mainstream giant law office lawyers I had interviewed prior to. Regardless, he was able to be confrontational to my opponent as I needed him to be and very knowledgeable. Its clear that even though I strongly considered being self-represented (which David even suggested that I reasonably could and didnt *need* to hire anyone), my case was stronger because I had him fighting it for me. The numerous amounts of evidence I had were more organized and presented to a stronger effect much to the chagrin of my opponent. I'll say it again: his price structure and business model give him more integrity than other lawyers since it removes the incentive for billing for additional "surprise" hours. There isnt any real way for him to take advantage of his clients this way and I think that that's worth its weight on its own.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Cynthia
I was referred to David by the Oregon State Bar referral service. He gave me excellent advice, even though his advice was to stick with my current lawyer (so he didn't get my business). He was kind and compassionate, and I would look to him first if I needed a lawyer in the future. (This was for a personal injury claim.)
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31 May, 2023 by Big jon
He personally called me back the next business day and volunteered his time to review my case. I was impressed with his knowledge. My case is a very uncommon firearms case in which he knew everything about. Strongly recommend. Most lawyers have to "get back to you". Makes me wonder what they learned in school. Not this guy.
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21 Dec, 2023 by Sierra rose
02 Nov, 2021 by Marybeth (mcbean)
12 Jan, 2020 by Ken wagner
The people!! They are amazing!
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21 Dec, 2023 by Sierra rose
02 Nov, 2021 by Marybeth (mcbean)
12 Jan, 2020 by Ken wagner
The people!! They are amazing!
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21 Dec, 2023 by Sierra rose
02 Nov, 2021 by Marybeth (mcbean)
12 Jan, 2020 by Ken wagner
The people!! They are amazing!
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30 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired Nathan for my case and am so glad I did. He maintained good communication throughout the case, listening and addressing all my questions/concerns. Nathan is easy to work with, accessible, and responsive by phone and email. Nathan worked hard on my case and I am thankful for his work. I would 100% recommend Nathan to anyone who needs his help.
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20 Jun, 2020 by Kimberly
Nathan Mitchell did a fabulous job on my case. He is very easy work with and treats you with respect. He gave me all the guidance I needed so that I could do what I had to, to help win my case. I will definitely refer anyone that needs this kind of help to Nathan.
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21 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I think Nathan worked real hard on my case. I was very pleased with the outcome. He is a good guy and I would recommend his services to others.
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01 Jun, 2016 by Sabrina
Jeremy was extremely helpful throughout my process of creating a parenting plan. He paid close attention to details and filed any needed paperwork promptly. He answered all my questions and was always courteous and polite. Exceptional attorney that I would recommend to others.
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03 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Jeremy comes highly recommended. I researched multiple attorneys in Clark county and decided on Elizabeth Christy Law Firm because of the great reviews, and I'm glad I did. Jeremy was very quick, thorough, supportive, knowledgeable and responsive during this whole process. The process to which I'm referring is establishing a parenting plan and court ordered child support. The process took about 3 weeks, consultation to signed orders. He really made this unfortunate time in my life, bearable. Hopefully I won't need similar services in the future, but if I do, I'll be going with Jeremy.
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23 Jan, 2016 by Karli
Divorces are stressful and can be one of the hardest things you will ever go through in life. Jeremy was always prepared, organized, and professional. He has the ability to calm any situation we were faced with and put my mind at ease knowing he had everything under control. I was referred by a friend, and I would definitely recommend him to everyone looking for a great lawyer. Thank you again Jeremy
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23 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
Jason was wonderful to work with in every way. I felt supported, incredibly well-represented, and understood with regard to the details of my case. I had previously spoken with no less than a dozen other personal injury attorneys and went with Jason. In short, Jason knows the law, he is passionate about representing injured parties, and he is incredibly personable. I would strongly recommend him to anyone in search of solid representation.
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22 Apr, 2015 by Craig
I've known Ned as attorney for a number of years, now. He is very thorough in his case preparation and does a great job representing his clients at hearing. I would highly recommend him!
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17 Dec, 2020 by Arthur
Jonathan Rose is a fine lawyer. I have had a number of cases with him and he is always professional, well learned in his case, well prepared and ready to advocate for his clients in the best of traditions. Jon is a top advocate in the field of workers' compensation and has the respect of his peers, the judges and his clients.
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04 Sep, 2010 by Anonymous
Always spells out options and chances of prevailing. Great job all of the time.
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25 Mar, 2011 by Susan
In September of 2010 I was falsely accused of " theft three", a misdemeanor crime, by my employer. At 50 plus years of age I had never been accused of any crime so I was scared and humiliated. My plea was of course "not guilty". After my first meeting with Lauren, I knew I was in good hands and that having her on my side was a blessing. My trial was in March 2011 with a jury of 6 and I was acquitted and all charges were dropped. I have Lauren to thank!! She is smart, resourceful, very knowledgeable, professional and an excellent litigator, but as important as these attributes are for an attorney, she also possesses a remarkable calm, confidence & kindness. Her preparation for trial was impeccable, her approach to my case brilliant and her demeanor in court was exemplary. Lauren Schmidt-Dipaola is an outstanding lawyer and I would highly recommend her!!!
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24 Mar, 2022 by Rick h
I was in a car accident a few years back, upon meeting with lawyers I knew that John and team were the right fit! They handled my case effectively and had great communication throughout the whole process. Very professional. Thank you Mr. Oswald for all your hard work.
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07 May, 2021 by Anonymous
John was on top of all aspects of my WC claim from the beginning. Having someone deal with all the filings and deadlines is a godsend. The resultant judgement was better than I expected. Johns experience and professionalism is refreshing in our states current condition!
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05 Jun, 2020 by Dianna
I was seriously injured and fired from my work place. The moment I entered John Oswald’s office, his intellect, kindness, and knowledge of the law surrounded me and I knew I was safe. I still marvel at my good fortune to be his client. John is an exceptional negotiator in restitution of losses. He possesses an incredible skill set which took my physical trauma and turned it into a glorious victory. In working with John Oswald, your voice will be heard, the impact of injury on your life will be revealed, and recompense will begin. I will always highly recommend John to everyone.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Guenevere schwien
I got my Will made here and it was an easy and effortless process. The only hard part was my own decisions about who gets what.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Denese seiveno lawless
09 Jun, 2024 by Craig carr
Competent, efficient, experienced, friendly, relaxed. These are a few of the terms that come readily to mind when I reflect upon the estate planning help I received from Theressa Hollis at Fitzwater Law. This firm has a longstanding reputation for excellence and reasonableness, and my experience persuades me that this reputation is justifiably well deserved.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Richard concepcion
I was involved in a rear-end accident that left me with significant back and neck injuries. The recovery process was long and challenging, and there were times when I struggled to pay bills or even buy food due to the financial strain. Thankfully, I had the support of Gilroy, Napoli, & Short Law firm, and specifically Attorney Bill Martin.
Attorney Bill Martin did an outstanding job in handling my case. He was diligent and compassionate, ensuring that I received the compensation I needed for the time lost during my healing process. His efforts helped me cover my expenses and manage the financial difficulties caused by the accident. I also lost a lot of overtime at work, which made it even harder to keep up with my bills, but Bill’s dedication to my case made a significant difference.
I highly recommend Gilroy, Napoli, & Short Law firm for anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. Their professionalism and commitment to their clients are truly commendable.
Go see Bill Martin!
Highly Recommended!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Diane thatcher
Very kind and knowledgeable. She will be my attorney from now on
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01 Aug, 2024 by Calvin s
Are you looking for a defense attorney that's not only talented, but tenacious in their pursuit of justice and sharp as a tack? Then look no further.
I had the absolute pleasure of retaining Chandler Wren and Jason Short as my attorneys regarding some very serious charges. Despite my innocence, I know that the justice system has its many flaws and having never navigated it before, I was very worried regarding how to go about it. I was directed to have an initial consultation with Chandler and I'll be honest, even that was nerve wracking to think over. However, nearly immediately after speaking with her, I could see the haze of worry begin to fade and found a clear light in the midst of the chaos. My fears and anxiety could only be described as melted away the moment I saw and heard the expertise she brought to the table. I can tell you with absolute confidence that she is a FIGHTER! One of the brightest people I've ever met and she had a perfect way to describe every detail of the process in the most concise and easy to understand form possible.
One other major thing that I immediately took notice too (and feel what is probably often overlooked by those searching for representation) was her very palpable empathy! ANY legal situation is horrifying to experience to say the least, I'm a grown man and I'm not afraid to say that it was a scary thing to deal with. Nonetheless, Chandler had an amazing way to show strong empathy and human connection that I think many so desperately need in hard times. She often mentioned that her goal wasn't just to prove my innocence, but to also make sure I was doing okay and felt as comforted as possible and she completely proved that to be true time and time again!
My situation was a bit unique in that no charges were declared at the moment and the possibility of the unknown was paramount to my concern. Through many weeks of anxiety and months of what felt like turmoil, she was the armor-clad defender I could only dream of having in such a harrowing situation. She fought tooth and nail to do every possible thing to show my innocence in an absolute pursuit of justice and I can both confidently and happily state that she and Jason prevailed! No charges were sought and this tumultuous chapter of my life could finally come to a close.
Chandler and Jason are more than attorneys, they're warriors and their zealous pursuit of justice is unmatched by others. If you don't take my word for it, then reference the DOZENS of other positive reviews of both this firm and themselves! I am beyond grateful for their council and they will hold special place not just in my mind, but in my heart as well.
In case my review was too much to read and you, looking for representation now, just want the short jist of it; YOU NEED THIS FIRM! You won't regret it in the slightest bit.
Thank you Chandler and Jason, you are both nothing short of inspirational.
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06 Jan, 2022 by Adriana
We had the honor of having Chris Frost represent us for my husband's Workers Comp case. Chris was willing to take our case after our previous workers comp lawyer had to close his business. Chris helped us in our time of need, she took the time to explain where we were at in our case and what she could do to help us. We always knew we could count on her to have our best interest in mind, she really does care about people.
Her office was organized and quick to respond. She would schedule times to meet or talk on the phone when it worked with our work schedule. She cheered us on as my husband obtained new employment. We are now at the end of this workers comp journey after 2 1/2 years and are blessed to have had a promising outcome with much thanks to Chris and her team.
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30 Sep, 2021 by Trevor
I was lost on where to go for Help. CHRIS and her crew helped me with this difficult chapter in my life. I got more than expected. She was perfect and stuck with me from start to end. I am so grateful. Thank you.
Trevor
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06 Nov, 2020 by Sarah
Chris Frost and her team are wonderful! I'm so grateful for their hard work, professionalism, kindness, and support through a very painful and challenging time in my life due to a work-related injury.
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23 Jan, 2020 by Patti
Colin Hackett with CRH law firm was exactly what I needed for the Workers Comp claim I was a part of. He was easy to understand and very empathetic to my case. I enjoyed working with him and Jeremy! They knew what steps to take and how to proceed with my case! I would highly recommend this law firm and Colin Hackett!! They were very patient with us and explained what needed doing!!
Thank you!!
Patti
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04 Nov, 2017 by Maribel
So incredibly glad that I stumbled upon Colin Hackett on Avvo when I did. Long story short, I had gotten a worker's comp claim denied by Saif because of a poorly conducted IME, even though I had several doctors who knew what was going on with my wrist, and also agreed it was work related. Colin was able to get letters from the doctors I'd seen, and was able to make a good case for me. And in doing so, I got a good settlement out of it. He's also great with communicating and giving updates on the case. All in all, I'm very happy with having him represent me as an attorney. Thank you Colin!
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09 Jun, 2017 by Janet
Colin is a fair, honest, no nonsense man with integrity. He demonstrates wisdom in his profession. He is trustworthy and dependable. Colin helped me greatly in a workers compensation settlement. He got the job done in a timely manner. I would highly recommend to anyone needing assistance in this and anything similar to call upon him for guidance. He will get the job done for you. Thank you, Colin. It was a pleasure.
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10 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
I have been sent to him by the Oregon Bar a few times. When I contact him he agrees my case is horrific and awful and people should not be treated this way and my case is strong, etc. However, he refuses to accept the case saying he is too busy. When the truth is told my case will not bring him enough money (according to other lawyers). He only takes rich cases and leaves the rest of us to rot.
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21 Sep, 2017 by Cindy morris
Paul was the absolute perfect choice for me in my worker's comp case. Along with his staff they all worked tirelessly on my case and words cannot express the deep gratitude I feel for all of them. Paul stepped in and made sure I received the care I needed and negotiated a fair settlement for me. Not only was he there as my attorney, I was treated as though I were a family member. I was not the easiest person to deal with but the staff showed me the greatest kindness and respect and that meant everything to me. Without hesitation I would highly recommend Paul Bovarnick to anyone trying to maneuver through the worker's comp mess they might find themselves involved in. Thank you again to Paul and his staff.
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20 Apr, 2015 by Jerry
Paul Bovarnick started out as my lawyer and as the case went I made a friend. He was always honest with me and talk to me often about the plan. Paul always called and questions about the case, more importantly he want to know how I was doing. Then he stayed honest to the case, he never tried to build or take the case anywhere that we could not support the facts. Today we are still friends because of his honesty and friendship. If I have questions about things he still always answers his phone and talks with me and gives me great advice. Paul Bovarnick is my lawyer, my friend and you could not find a better lawyer for your case.
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26 Oct, 2023 by Gerald de voe
I contacted Schoenfeld about my case and they responded quickly. They were very professional and kept me informed of every step. They were concerned about the details and made sure that it was settled at my best interest.
Without this law firm I would have been taken advantage of and without any closure.
I would recommend this law firm to anyone who is struggling to get the care they need from any insurance company..
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01 Sep, 2023 by Danielle eversole
Schoenfeld & Schoenfeld were so thoughtful in everything they helped my husband with on his Workman's Comp claim. We had no idea of our rights and they helped empower us so we could get what we were entitled. We would have been lost without them and their knowledge. Thank you.
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08 May, 2023 by Malaki bahu
I had the pleasure of working with Schoenfeld and Schoenfeld for my workers' compensation claim, and I can't recommend them enough. From start to finish, the team at Schoenfeld and Schoenfeld was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly supportive. They guided me through every step of the process, ensuring that I understood what was happening and what my options were.
Not only did Schoenfeld and Schoenfeld secure a fair settlement for me, but they also treated me with compassion and empathy throughout the entire ordeal. It was clear that they genuinely cared about my well-being and were determined to help me get the compensation I deserved.
If you're looking for a law firm that will fight for you and treat you like a person, not just another case, I highly recommend Schoenfeld and Schoenfeld. Thank you for everything!
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23 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I was the client of Gayle Shields with my workers compensation case.
At the first meeting Gayle was friendly, full of enthusiasm and hopes. Then she acted by her own, didn't explain anything, she did everything without contacting me. In my opinion, she failed to do a lot, and then became irritated if I asked her questions. Sometimes, I sent her my own thoughts, additional information, which she denied, but which was later useful when she dealt with claims adjuster.
In my opinion, Gayle Shields won't go till the end, in the middle she can drop you, because, she hesitates to move forward.
In my case, I cannot say she helped my case with her personality, hard work, etc. She was almost going to drop me when during mediation we came to some conclusion with insurance company.
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05 Jan, 2014 by Jeff
Both my wife and I were injured separately a week apart at work. Being over 60, we decided that a lawyer would be a good preemptive move. We were lucky to find Gayle. She said that because of our age and past medical issues that they would be difficult cases. That was an understatement. After almost a year, they are finally resolved. Mine was accepted but my wife's was not ,though settled through mediation. Gayle was with us every step of the way. We would have been thrown to the wolves had it not been for her help. Very knowledgeable and experienced.
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24 Feb, 2012 by Charles k
Gayle is a caring attorney that isn't only out there for herself. I'd reccomend her for any workers' comp case you have. She treated me like family and I wouldn't reccomend anyone else besides her for an attorney
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30 Dec, 2022 by Nicholas gaskey
U are remarkable and it's a honor to have u represent me in my case I know ur doing a fine job but I wanted to thank u publicly cuase I feel u deserve alot more than just a thank u so God bless u I know ur gona win my case the odds are against me but I'm not worried cuase I have u thank u sir nomatter we win or loose I thank u kind sir
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05 Jan, 2021 by Anthony
My wife and myself gave James Dodge a business loan and he lied to us on several items and eventually never paid us back a dime! He is not a man of character and he shafted me and my family out of a lot of money. I'm sure he spent the money on better things than our kids having college tuition money!
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07 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Never having had the need for a WC attorney before, I wasn't sure where to go when my minor child was injured at her job and suffered a Brain Injury. We met with Mr. Dodge, and retained him. He was personable, understanding, knowledgeable and compassionate. All qualities that are important to a parent when someone is dealing with their child. Mr. Dodge took the time to meet with us, discuss the situation, identify potential courses of action to take, and worked with us every step of the way. He explained everything and answered all of our questions. He always had the best interests of my daughter in the forefront of the case. Not only did he provide guidance and assistance to us while we muddled through the situation, he identified that her employer was a "non-compliant employer" not only protecting my child, but current and future employees of the company she worked for. The things we learned through our experience with Mr. Dodge - He will go to bat for you. He will be honest with you - you may not always like what he has to tell you, but it is what you have to know, and hear - it is the truth. If he feels that he can't win your case, he will tell you. If he feels he can, he will tell you that too. You can always count on him telling it like it is. I highly recommend Mr. Dodge, and have actually referred 3 other people to him as well as my daughter on another issue. If you need a WC attorney, he is your man.
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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:
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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. -
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. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including the potential challenges and outcomes. -
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. -
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. -
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.
