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17 Sep, 2024 by Greyson olson
In September 2023, my brother (25, from Arizona) got arrested (in San Francisco, California) after attempting to enter a conference within a community both of us grew up in and have been apart of since 2008. His car keys were knocked out of his suit pants during a tackle incident at the security clearance after he had trouble leaving when asked. According to my brother there was a misunderstanding of an email conflicting with him not being invited to the conference. After being tackled and handcuffed, he told the officers he had a concealed firearm in his vehicle, 5 minutes away, as he felt it was a danger for his keys to be off of his person. I was at this conference, and saw some of this happen live. My peers in our place of work were laughing, and making memes about this for months. There are many videos and pictures of the whole ordeal.
They put 6 charges on him that night, including "possession of armor piercing ammunition" and "high capacity magazines"
The SF media created a narrative off of the charges and the prosecution ran with it moving to deny bail within the first week, just as my family was even beginning to cope with this new reality. Public consensus of the incident caused a rift in the community between those who knew him for years prior and know he would never do what was being inferred by the media, and those who didn't know him and were led to believe it. Our family used this as fuel to ensure we stuck with this case mentally and financially, no matter how hard it felt and how much of an uphill battle it was at times.
We went through two public defenders, and another private attorney before landing on Nechay Law in late March 2024. Nechay tried many angles of defense for this non violent gun storage charge. All previous charges except "having a concealed firearm in a vehicle" were wiped, and the remaining was moved to a misdemeanor which a change of plea got him out of jail after 1 year, 4 days.
The prosecution was going for conviction on the felony level to get him 6 years, based upon the narrative they shaped up. Nechay (even after 7 months of other attorneys handling the case) was able to reverse and put to rest the previously life ruining, retribution hungry narrative.
The best scenario out of all of this is he will be getting more familial attention and help to deal with previous traumas such as a car crash that totaled his very expensive car, two home break-ins, and his business faltering. Rebuilding for him will be a hard but rewarding journey, and Nechay has allowed that second chance of the sanctity of life to happen through her expertise. I cannot recommend enough. Our family is eternally grateful for Valery and her firm's service.
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05 Sep, 2024 by I.a. huxley
Adam was recommended to me through another lawyer and I'm so thankful that that happened. We corresponded via text before hoping on a phone call. I still can't believe how kind and empathetic and knowledgable he was. He's exactly the kind of person and lawyer that you want in your corner.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Kristina delevi
I can't recommend Valery Nechay enough as an attorney. Her knowledge in so many areas of the law is truly impressive. She went above and beyond to make sure every detail was covered, and I always felt supported and informed throughout the whole legal process. Even with her busy schedule, Valery always found time to answer my questions, no matter how small. She made me feel like I was in the hands of someone who genuinely cares and knows her stuff. Valery is not just knowledgeable and dedicated, but also incredibly compassionate. I'm so grateful for everything she did for me.
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18 Jul, 2024 by William devon-sand
Patricia is great and super helpful. She was flexible and work hard to help me and made the process simple.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Frozan faiaz
Ms, Niloufar Mazarin was my lawyer to help me with my case which was very complicated and difficult,
I had the pleasure of working with Niloufar on a complex legal matter, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the service and outcome. From the very beginning, [Lawyer's Name] displayed exceptional professionalism, deep legal knowledge, and a genuine commitment to my case.
Throughout the process, Niloufar kept me well-informed and explained every step in a way that was easy to understand. They were always available to answer my questions, either via email or phone, and never made me feel rushed or insignificant.
Overall Niloufar Mazhari is a top-notch lawyer who genuinely cares about their clients and delivers outstanding results. I would not hesitate to hire them again in the future.
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06 May, 2024 by Brian thomas
Moradi Saslaw is the best choice for family law. Kiana and Ramon were a pleasure to work with. They are professional, responsive and have a unique ability to clearly and concisely communicate the nuances of the law.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Anuhya mlh
Sam was a lifesaver as my lawyer. Right from the start, he was super professional and really knew his stuff. What I really appreciated was how he didn't pretend to have all the answers. If he was unsure, he'd reach out to other lawyers to get the best advice, which was awesome.
He was great at explaining all the legal jargon and made sure I understood what was going on. Plus, he was always a step ahead in the game, which paid off big time.
Most importantly, Sam was always there to keep me in the loop. It felt more like having a friend in the legal world who genuinely cared about my case. Honestly, if you're in a tough spot and need legal help, Sam's your guy. He's not just a great lawyer but a great person to have on your side.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Paras shah
Sam is an excellent attorney. He is deeply knowledgeable and handles every situation with professionalism. He was extremely responsive and you can tell he cares very much about his clients. I cannot recommend Sam enough.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Артур ка
I want to express my deep gratitude to Samuel for his work!
I would like to say about high professionalism and 100% knowledge of their business
A very experienced specialist in his field!
Support and availability at any time!
Even in such a difficult situation as mine, he coped 100%
Highly recommend 👍👍👍
a professional in his field!
Thank you very much again 🙏🙏🙏
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20 Jul, 2024 by Anuhya mlh
Sam was a lifesaver as my lawyer. Right from the start, he was super professional and really knew his stuff. What I really appreciated was how he didn't pretend to have all the answers. If he was unsure, he'd reach out to other lawyers to get the best advice, which was awesome.
He was great at explaining all the legal jargon and made sure I understood what was going on. Plus, he was always a step ahead in the game, which paid off big time.
Most importantly, Sam was always there to keep me in the loop. It felt more like having a friend in the legal world who genuinely cared about my case. Honestly, if you're in a tough spot and need legal help, Sam's your guy. He's not just a great lawyer but a great person to have on your side.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Paras shah
Sam is an excellent attorney. He is deeply knowledgeable and handles every situation with professionalism. He was extremely responsive and you can tell he cares very much about his clients. I cannot recommend Sam enough.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Артур ка
I want to express my deep gratitude to Samuel for his work!
I would like to say about high professionalism and 100% knowledge of their business
A very experienced specialist in his field!
Support and availability at any time!
Even in such a difficult situation as mine, he coped 100%
Highly recommend 👍👍👍
a professional in his field!
Thank you very much again 🙏🙏🙏
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03 Oct, 2024 by Justin weiner
I had the absolute pleasure of working with Gene Halavanau for my personal injury case, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the outcome. Gene is the epitome of professionalism and fairness. From the very start, he took the time to understand every detail of my situation and made sure that I always felt informed and confident throughout the process.
What truly sets Gene apart is his commitment to going above and beyond. He didn’t just handle my case—he actively worked to ensure I received the best possible result. His dedication to my well-being and his meticulous attention to detail gave me peace of mind during what could have been an incredibly stressful time.
Gene's expertise and tireless work ethic delivered outstanding results for me, and I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. If you're looking for someone who is not only incredibly skilled but also deeply cares about his clients, Gene Halavanau is the attorney you want on your side!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Ben
John helped me with two separate cases one a ride share and the other a personal accident. Both settled well. John is receptive and negotiated with my interest in mind. If you find yourself in need of a good injury lawyer. I recommend John.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Gabriella oliva
John represented me, and he did a great job. I would highly recommend him.
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12 Mar, 2021 by John
Jason isn't just a great lawyer. He's also wise and honest. Dependable and warm. He knows the law - there's no doubt about that. But he's also wise, insightful and dependable. Read these words. My experience with him made me feel this is someone who understands the case, the human dynamics involved in the dispute and was dependable and available emotionally beyond the lawsuit itself. Just an amazing lawyer and an even better person.
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08 Aug, 2010 by Jonathan
This is my highest recommendation for the courteous and professional service I received from Jason Lundberg on my recent personal injury case concerning a slip and fall that occurred in Oakland, CA.
Jason Lundberg is a personal injury attorney in San Francisco, CA. I had initially hired another law firm to handle my case and after several years of no real action and what now appears to have been a series of professional blunders by the original law firm, my case file was essentially handed over to Jason Lundberg. This was probably the best thing to happen for me and my case as he immediately took the bull by the horns. I had a settlement check in my hands within 6 months of my meeting him. Job well done Jason!
He attended doctor’s appointments and all meetings himself. He was always keeping my best interest in mind and always kept my busy schedule as top consideration for important dates. If you need further recommendations from me leave your email address with Jason and I will answer any reasonable questions to the best of my ability.
Jonathan - Oakland, CA
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22 Feb, 2010 by James
After a life threatening injury accident, I very nearly tried to settle with the driver's insurance company on my own. What a mistake that would've been, but the lawyers I'd interviewed were more like car salesmen than legal advocates. Soon after I started making a tragic series of uninformed decisions, I had the good fortune to meet Jason. I must have seemed overly cautious, but he stuck with me, taking time to explain everything. His larger than life personality is more than perfectly genuine, it's perfectly suited to his profession.
At every turn, Jason clearly knew his stuff, from legal nooks and crannies to the maelstrom of hospital/doctor/fire dept billing depts, and insurance adjusters (one after another). Jason is a master communicator, forthright, practical, and shrewd.
To find a trusted lawyer is even more important than finding a trusted mechanic. The trauma, stress and uncertainty I'd been dealing with steadily faded and I was able to get back to my life! Even as we continued to wait on the other side, Jason would phone me with status updates and include me in his thought process.
Jason works incredibly hard. Even after we'd arrived at a settlement, meaning his fee was a known quantity, Jason continued to work on my behalf, pursuing billing inconsistencies that, once resolved, resulted in even more of the settlement coming to me. I have amply cause to give him five stars across the board. I can't recommend him enough.
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16 Aug, 2021 by Mary
Amanda Poe is an excellent attorney. She is a knowledgeable and dedicated advocate in seeking justice for her clients. She is highly skilled in navigating the incredibly complex worker's comp system. She is also an excellent communicator with her clients. She and her staff are available to help when needed. I highly recommend her.
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27 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Attorney Amanda Poe and her assistant Adriana Lopez helped me settle my workers-compensation case, From the moment that I met Amanda, I had a feeling that she knew what she was doing. Both Amanda and Adriana were always available to me through email and phone. I would recommend this office to everyone who is looking for the best workers compensation representation.
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29 Dec, 2019 by Jose espinal
They are the best. I recommend all lawyer
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08 Oct, 2019 by Ariel green andersson
The team at Jewell, Stewart and Pratt made our transition from Czech Republic to California go remarkably well. A large amount of paperwork, all very clear and thorough and timing was exactly what they told us and better. Claire, Monique and Mable made a great combo and we highly recommend hiring them when you are looking for results beyond the basics, special requests and international managing of affairs across borders, oceans and mountains of red tape. In 1st moments we thought to do it on our own. Then, realized there were some surprises along the way and that our team got results we were not able to get on our own and we didn’t want any mistakes during an already stressful period of change. This was the best investment in our future we made, by far. No regrets. No surprises. Professional and straight forward. Exactly what you need when moving yourself and family to U.S. Crossing the border with confidence is the best gift you can give yourself.11 minutes at the airport border crossing/special room, amazing. Do yourself a favor and relax into a professional team who knows what’s needed, so you don’t.
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04 Jul, 2019 by Forrest
great attorney. Ken walked me through the entire long and tedious process of the workers comp system. Ken kept me informed the entire time and eased all of my concerns. I have recommended ken to several friends.
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16 Aug, 2017 by Hadas
In 2010, I experienced unbearable (and unlawful) workplace harassment and filed a Workers Comp claim which my employer promptly denied. I sought help from attorney Kenneth Sheppard to who I will be grateful for as long as I live. He was a terrific advocate and an absolute pleasure to work with.
From my very first contact in 2010 through my most recent one today, Kenneth was and consistently remained kind, patient, effective, and efficient. He was either readily available to speak with me when I needed it or promptly returned my phone calls and emails. Kenneth did everything needed to get me excellent results. He is not only knowledgeable, skilled, level-headed, and realistic; he is also calm, reassuring, gracious, and generous. For example, after my Award was finalized, my employer took an unreasonable time paying my medical bills. Though Kenneth would not be specifically compensated for it, he filed a Motion with the WCAB and I eventually got paid. With Kenneth help, I was able to return to work with my dignity intact.
Because I have some background in Workers Comp claims and understand the demands, I know Kenneth’s level of performance to be exceptional. Also, as a trained attorney who has met a few in my days, I can say without a doubt that Kenneth Sheppard is the finest among us.
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27 Oct, 2010 by Jeanette
Betty was referred to me by another attorney. i was extremely impressed with her kindness, professionalism and genuine consideration of my situation. Her first concern was to address my injury & health problems, and to ensure that I was being treated by an excellent physician, she went to the doctor's office with me. My case took several years, and she dilligently supported me at all times.. Through her vast knowledge, superior skills & dedication, she brought my case to a VERY SUCCESSFUL completion. With the annuities that she won for me,she continues her dedication and support! She is SUPERIOR & I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HER!!
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02 May, 2013 by Winston b.
I have an industrial injury, i was having a hard time getting the treatment because it was denied by the insurance ,Michelle Brodie help me when i needed it most.i was able to get all my treatments and my industrial injury was later approved.
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16 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Although I have never engaged Mr. Bonilla, I have consulted with him about his work and he is very knowledgeable in the workers' compensation space. Alex is bilingual in English and Spanish. He is also kind and determined. Alex works hard to meet his clients' needs.
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12 Nov, 2021 by Narayan sankaran
Mina and Summer helped us with our family-based permanent residency. We appreciated their experience, customer service, and expertise. We would recommend New World Law to anybody looking for professional immigration advice in the Bay Area
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24 Apr, 2019 by Daniel pereira
My experience with Mina and Summer could not be better. They are very accessible, competent and fast in their work. Although awesome persons too. I strongly recommend NewWorld Law. They are perfect!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Carole isaacs
One day in my mail I found a letter from my landlords attorney telling me my landlord had filed a petition with the San Francisco Rent Board to raise our rent. My roommate and I immediately went to the Tenants Union for counseling. We met Jason Wolford who told us we had a good case, but should hire an attorney to represent us at the hearing. Jason provided us with a fairly long lists of attorney. We reviewed the list and determined that Wolford Wayne was the best fit for our situation.
Megan Johnson, an associate at Wolford Wayne, was the person Jason recommended. Megan represented tenants in buyout negotiations, affirmative wrongful eviction cases and Rent Board cases. We met with Megan in person and we were impressed with her knowledge of our case. Megan felt our landlord’s case was weak and once they saw the rebuttal she would submit to the Rent Board they may withdraw the Petition to raise our rent. She clearly explained to us what information we needed to provide her to do her best in defending us at the Rent Board hearing. For various reasons that we do not understand and were out of our control the Rent Board took 6 months to schedule our hearing. During this time Megan was in touch with both us and the rent board working to facilitate a speedy hearing and to discuss with us the various documents the landlord provided as evidence why our rent should be raised.
In the end, the landlord withdrew their petition to raise our rent 3 days before the scheduled Rent Board hearing. This was frustrating, but all is well that ends well. Thanks to Megan Johnson we are now prepared to document our comings and goings and other information the landlord would twist to try and prove that we no longer lived in our apartment.
All around we could not ask for a more knowledgeable, goal oriented attorney who communicated with us in a timely manner in a way we could always understand. Megan was perfect! There is nothing I would ask her to do differently and without hesitation I would recommend her to anyone having the unfortunate experience of having to deal with the San Francisco Rent Board.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Kasey morales
Bill and his team are exceptional to work with. Very impressive. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to my friends and family!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Santiago valencia
Working along with Bill has been a rewaring experience
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01 Oct, 2024 by Jonathan jenkins
I had so much inaccurate information on my credit report! I tried for years to get my credit report fixed by doing it on my own or hiring a credit repair company but with no luck. I got in touch with Mike Cardoza and it was the best decision I ever made. Mike reviewed my situation and told me I had a good case and for me to sit back while he handled the rest. Not only was EVERY inaccuracy on credit report fixed in a few months but Mike also made the credit bureau pay me for what they put me through! This process was so smooth and seamless and now I can accomplish the things I want to accomplish for my family. Thanks Mike!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Alex eshaya
27 Sep, 2024 by Deyse martinez
It was a pleasure to work with them, they were very kind and everything went perfectly. I will always be grateful for their help. The lawyer and all his staff are an excellent team, 100% recommended.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Jonathan jenkins
I had so much inaccurate information on my credit report! I tried for years to get my credit report fixed by doing it on my own or hiring a credit repair company but with no luck. I got in touch with Mike Cardoza and it was the best decision I ever made. Mike reviewed my situation and told me I had a good case and for me to sit back while he handled the rest. Not only was EVERY inaccuracy on credit report fixed in a few months but Mike also made the credit bureau pay me for what they put me through! This process was so smooth and seamless and now I can accomplish the things I want to accomplish for my family. Thanks Mike!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Alex eshaya
27 Sep, 2024 by Deyse martinez
It was a pleasure to work with them, they were very kind and everything went perfectly. I will always be grateful for their help. The lawyer and all his staff are an excellent team, 100% recommended.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Gurtaj singh
I am so happy, today my case was granted!! I highly recommend Rai and associates. Thank you entire TEAM!!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Azad gollan
My case was granted before Concord Immigration Court. All thanks to Rai and Associate team. I highly recommend Mr.Rai’s Office for your case.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Jai saroha
My case was dealt with proper professionalism and I was guided properly by Rai sir and his team. Thank you
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05 May, 2024 by Jay day
I really felt heard after speaking to Alan and Chris and experience speaks volumes. Appreciate you guys.
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01 May, 2024 by Sheikh israil
Couldn’t be more happy with the legal service I received from Adamson Ahdoot.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Francisco tembo
Thank you to Mr. Alan, Mr. Arash, Mrs. Maria, Mrs. Genesis, Mrs. Khadidja, and the entire firm of admson ahdoot for really going to bat for me, trusted them and they came for me. A well established firm who believes in their clients. Thank you for long hours that was put in and quick response. Thank you.🙏🏿
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21 Feb, 2023 by Darius noriega (pinoy_kayaker)
If you have any Immigration issues, feel like your case isn't moving or going anywhere, or if you think it's too complicated, I highly recommend Atty Rosy Cho. I've acquired a service from a well-known Filipino Immigration Law Firm. I had great consultations with the Partner/Face/Front of the company, and my questions and queries were answered by what I wanted to hear. I decided to acquire their services. I paid the retention fee as agreed. Later found out that my case was assigned to an associate when I called for a follow-up question. I find that interesting since I paid a partner's retention fee. I shrugged it off since I was assured the partner is overseeing my case. That's not why I left their service. After a few months have passed since I acquired the services and filled up the forms, but I have not received any receipts or notifications from USCIS. I decided to pick up the phone request for an update. That's when the paralegal told me I was missing documents that's why it was not filed. That was the last straw. I went searching for another firm through Yelp/Google. That was when I saw Atty Cho's reviews. I was impressed I decided to contact her. Right off the bat, I connected with her and her paralegal. She reviewed my documents and situations and made me sign documents to withdraw my paperwork from the other firm. Not even months I started receiving notifications. Atty Cho works tirelessly and continues to follow up if any updates or my attention is needed. I've got the results I wanted not what I want to hear. Thank you, Atty Cho! I wish I can do more than just a review to show how much I appreciate what you have done for me and my family!
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18 Oct, 2020 by King david
08 Nov, 2019 by Laura rojas
15 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo f
12 Aug, 2024 by Sylvia kamande
Last year I found Warren law firm through Google, I had tried 5 other law firms and no one wanted to take my case. I had 4 days to respond to my denial of my Green Card and Angela, Suyapa and the whole team set aside everything to work on my case and they worked effortlessly and went above and beyond. Within a month my denial was resolved and today I have my Green Card almost a year later!
If you want a team that will fight for you and will not back down to a challenge this is the firm you should go with. I am so grateful for their dedication and hard work!!! I highly recommend them!!!
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17 Jul, 2024 by Maria del carmen cervantes
Quiero dar las Gracias a la abogada Angela Warren y su equipo por haber aceptado mi caso, gracias a ellos ahora soy Residente Legal y los recomiendo amplianente
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26 Jun, 2024 by Adriane hill
I just to thank Bob and Zach so much.. Thank you for everything. The accident I was in at work was so horrific.Sometimes I don't even know how I survived it. But after everything in the Settlements that I got it made it so much better. My life has changed forever but i'm so grateful for you guys.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Ruben. mauricio rivas
13 Aug, 2021 by Rosa gonzalez
21 May, 2024 by John
Alex was generous with both time and knowledge. Having someone who is willing to dedicate the necessary time and share their expertise in such a kind way really makes a difference. He really put me at ease with the process.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Ricardo mendoza
09 Mar, 2024 by Francisco gutierrez
Alex Bonilla and his team are very honest and trustworthy. I am extremely grateful for all that they have done for me. I definitely recommend him and his team.
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08 Mar, 2023 by Amelia bonilla
15 Jan, 2023 by Andrew semaan
06 Jul, 2022 by Derek ryan
08 Mar, 2023 by Amelia bonilla
15 Jan, 2023 by Andrew semaan
06 Jul, 2022 by Derek ryan
22 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I prefer not to give any star to lawyer Robert Wyman who is laid back, not actively and proactively to fight for my medical treatment from worker compensation, the assistant asked me to apply the medical treatment through my insurance if any needed treatment gets rejected by worker compensation insurance. That sounded ridiculous, my health insurance won't cover any injury related to work, so I ended up without needed treatment offered for months but suffering pains daily basis. Secondly,
before deposition, Robert didn't prep me well, only called for 45 minutes on the date of deposition, and his instructions was so off from the real deposition, 2 hours deposition online, Robert didn't support me at all, I was interrogated fully by the WC lawyer. If you look for a responsible, professional, reliable and diligent lawyer, please stay away from Mr. Robert Wyman, his office is on Geary Street, SF
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03 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
I came to Mr Robert Wyman with my case and I has offer from work and I went to Dr Wyman and he promised me that my case worth more than what company offered me. He convinced me and assure me that he can get more. What happened that I got less and I think he want to get his cut from a granted case. He know that i will never get more nor he can get me more.
Also he computer got hacked more than once. Please if you want to go to good lawyer don't go to him for sure.
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02 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Robert is currently representing me in my case! Robert is very intelligent and highly intellectual. I am impressed thus far and would recommend Robert in a New York minute. Robert definitely knows the law in his expertise.
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28 Nov, 2017 by Kaye
Very dissappointed with the result of my case. Im not satisfied with the settlement. I got injured from work during the case i had heart surgery because of the stressed coz my benefits got stop bcoz i dont have primary physician for my injured. I got evicted etc. During my last hearing i got offered once which is not acceptable for me so i even explained and ask if we can asked more than the offered but he told me to accept the offered. I even insists to him i had heart problem coz of stressed etc. Then he just told me i will try. I dont even see He worked hard to my case to get a good or even settlement.
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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:
-
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.
