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08 Nov, 2015 by Kati
I was assigned Ms.Wagar by the courts as a court appointed attorney. Ms.Wagar was unreachable by phone and when I tried to make an appointment to meet with her, I was not allowed to do so. I had 4 court dates, each was continued to 3-4 weeks out. Ms. Wagar not one time consulted with me or even spoke to me other than inside the courtroom. No attempt to obtain my story or ask my wishes for the case. The final straw was a court date that I arrived for to find she forgot I was on the docket and didn't bring my file. After a very public discussion at the bar of the courtroom during open court, I was promised the ability to make an appointment. My first and only meeting with Ms. Wagar outside of the courtroom was very unprofessional. She was rude, disrespectful and argumentative. Luckily her law partner intervened decided there was a conflict of interest and asked the courts to be removed as counsel.
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23 Sep, 2015 by Tiffany
From the moment I sat with Mariah for my consult she made me feel welcomed and at home. She started the process and I never had to worry about a thing. Mariah was quick and efficient.
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04 Jul, 2015 by Deanne
Mariah represented us in a civil case that was handled quickly and expertly. She was very knowledgeable and gave us good advice along the way. Her paralegal was also amazing and kept us well informed. I would highly recommend Mariah.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Jazmin ostby
Only giving one star because I have to. She’s an embarrassment and doesn’t even know the laws or how to follow a parenting plan.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Elizabeth rodriguez
14 May, 2024 by Sam simons
My ex husband hired PNW on two separate occasions for the same case. I feel bad for the attorneys who represented him but they soon saw the type of person their client really is. His first attorney Denisa definitely tried and would actually respond to my emails (I'm the opposing party). She shortly dropped him as a client and would not re-represent him. His last attorney Olaf, I felt bad for him at first but I learned very quickly he already got his money and WOULD NOT answer any questions directly and would dance around the conversation. He wouldn't even defend his client. If you choose to go through PNW they are extremely cheap/affordable but understand you get what you pay for. You are WAY better off representing yourself than to have Olaf on your side. Denisa puts in the work and will fight for you...at least better than Olaf. I never had an attorney and I have the original parenting plan back in place from 5 years ago.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Jonathan erickson
Been meaning to get in and write a review! Tom has helped me out through 1 bankruptcy and 2 divorces. He was honest and direct all throughout each process. Highly recommend his services!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Susan gribbin
Leslie Gilbertson and team are stars! Thank you for taking this case on and steering it in the direction you did. Leslie picked out the essential issues around visitation and addressed the fundamental reality of where our grandson lives, has lived and will continue to live. Her presentation of each point in your argument was superb!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Annika ann
Dropped a huge retainer and we have not had a single filing completed in time for my family’s case with Leslie Gilberston specifically. Communication is massively lacking. I’m charged for every time I email or call for an update that I don’t get. Be wary when they say they have the capacity for your case and expect to be your own advocate with the courts if you choose this firm, especially if it is family law.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Jonathan erickson
Been meaning to get in and write a review! Tom has helped me out through 1 bankruptcy and 2 divorces. He was honest and direct all throughout each process. Highly recommend his services!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Susan gribbin
Leslie Gilbertson and team are stars! Thank you for taking this case on and steering it in the direction you did. Leslie picked out the essential issues around visitation and addressed the fundamental reality of where our grandson lives, has lived and will continue to live. Her presentation of each point in your argument was superb!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Annika ann
Dropped a huge retainer and we have not had a single filing completed in time for my family’s case with Leslie Gilberston specifically. Communication is massively lacking. I’m charged for every time I email or call for an update that I don’t get. Be wary when they say they have the capacity for your case and expect to be your own advocate with the courts if you choose this firm, especially if it is family law.
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25 Oct, 2017 by Hyung
I had a L&I claim for job injury. Paul was my attorney and he handled my claim well. Now I received a life-time pension with his help.
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17 Nov, 2023 by Mae m.
Shady, rude and unprofessional would never recommend.
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24 Jul, 2019 by Spencer parr
I am an experienced Washington attorney who has both fought Levi Larson on behalf of one of my Malpractice clients AND, subsequent to that case resolving, hired him to help knock down a complaint made against my physician wife's practice. Happily, the complaint against my wife made to the Department of Health, Medical Quality Assurance Commission was dismissed with a finding that she had acted entirely within the standard of care for her practice area. She, of course, knew it the whole time, but proving something is different than just knowing it. Levi helped us prove it. Thank you, Attorney Levi Larson!
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19 Jun, 2018 by Sara depasquale
27 Aug, 2023 by James tasoulas
Love it!!!
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25 Aug, 2023 by Nerm m
I had a great experience with these guys, who represented me in a ridiculous lawsuit brought against me by my greedy, land grabbing neighbors (ahem- allegedly). They helped me save a TON of money so that I could take the fight over the finish line, despite the opposing counsel's constant threats and grandstanding. I was successful in holding onto the property my neighbors were attempting to take from me.
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13 Mar, 2023 by Jordyn “atlantianspecialist666” atlantian
Never call back
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26 Sep, 2024 by Sandy martinez
The worst lawyer you can find in Seattle, really don't waste your time or money with these people. He worked on my case for 7 years, I was married to an American citizen, he was never able to fix my status, he just stole my money. I was done with him when immigration once called me to an appointment and Bart charged me $1000 just to go go with me to the appointment and what do you think? On the day of the appointment he told me to wait for him because he was already with another client at another appointment in the same place but then it was my turn as if immigration was going to wait for him, well the fact is that I showed up alone and he never arrived at the appointment. Then I called and called his office, which are also super unprofessional, to begin with, the one who answers the phone is the wife who is not even in the office but at home, she knows absolutely nothing about your case and always acts like she does . Well that day she answered my call and told me that the lawyer Bart couldn't answer me because he had others important clients, as if he would work for me for free... I was so pissed well I explored and I fired Bart and asked him to give me my money back, the $1000 that I paid him because he was going to go with me to my appointment but he didn't go, he replied that he was only going to return $800 since he had gone to the immigration offices even if it wasn't for me. I couldn't believe how cruel he was. But I went with my case with another great lawyer, in less than 3 months she solved what Bart couldn't do in 7 years. I went to my country and in 3 months I received my green card. Please don't fall into this horrible place, they are good for nothing, the only person who does their job is Kara, his assistant. I spent more then 15,000 in 7 years and all he did was nothing
You suck Bart
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13 Sep, 2024 by Yooku morro
22 Aug, 2024 by William morris
Bart didn't let me finish a single sentence on the phone before interjecting. He was condescending, rude, and unhelpful.
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23 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Tom Foley was interested at first. Then came the endless requests for replenishing the retainer (with arbitrary charges that were not verifiable). As the case went on he grew more disinterested even letting me know how "weary" he was of my case! I knew I was in trouble and hired another attorney which never bodes well. If you want someone to stay by your side and fight for your interests he is not your attorney!!
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17 Apr, 2017 by Robert
Thomas Foley was disastrous as my legal representation and charged upwards of $3,000 for absolutely nothing. He talked a great game and was nice at our first meeting beyond that things went down hill fast. He was ill prepared for court and actually hurt my case. He misrepresented me to the judge and had zero of the case facts. He had to be corrected by the judge on multiple occasions, and was fired after 10 days. I hired another lawyer who was amazing. Thomas Foley is not a good lawyer. He is the bad ones who give the great ones a bad reputation.
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25 Aug, 2016 by Tracy
My recent experience was amazing! From to moment I gave Mr. Foley my request for assistance he ran with it. I was left relaxed and in responsible and capable hands, when I asked questions he responded immediately and made my mind rest knowing I was in good hands. The case was settled and dismissed.!! I would recommend Tom Foley over and over again, He has definitely earned my respect and I admire his skills in his chosen field. Thank you to Tom Foley and his team.
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14 Apr, 2023 by Maryannie little
Was set to give 30% when the insurance company was ready to pay they brought me in to sign new papers and they took almost all of it. I got like 20% a couple of checks for a couple grand tops they got 20k. It felt sketchy. If I Could I would go back and get another lawyer for this lawyer it was so sketchy. It’s been years and my auto insurance means I’ve more than paid it back. Not very ethical.
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18 Mar, 2022 by Ann pike
This attorney is the worst..Don't trust him
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03 Aug, 2021 by Daniel wennig
01 Feb, 2019 by Beth gantenbein
Amazing and honest
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09 Jun, 2017 by Mark snodderly
This business is located down by water on budd inlet the southern most tip of Puget sound. The Ambiance alone makes it worth the stop.
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28 Sep, 2016 by Joshua bryant
12 May, 2023 by Ryan bejna
Do not use! Website says 30 day money back guarantee. Been fighting for that refund and they say since I had access to website they can't give me a full refund. The gave me a partial and then removed access to my answers, so all my work went to waste. Use a different company.
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14 Dec, 2022 by Ron running
My experience with Mr Parnell far exceeded my expectations. I swear he doesn't sleep at all, since I received timely communication at all hours. The process was clear, concise and remarkably cost effective. I would highly recommend his services!!!
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01 Nov, 2022 by Teress kay
Been waiting 2 months for them to send my husband his paper work and they just keep saying 7-10 more business days. This place just wants your money. And you will never get that divorce!
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15 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Blaine uses his years of valuable experience to give you the best representation possible. Hard-working and gets the job done right.
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25 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
It takes a certain amount of effort to be this bad of an attorney. Blaine Connaughton lost a custody battle to a documented child abuser fresh out of a mental institution who was represented by a guy who eventually lost his law license. You have got to be some kind of a pathetic attorney to do that. Zero stars.
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21 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Blaine has been my attorney since 2014, i have referred him to many many people and by personal experience is the reason I still my family together, i have him and his office to thank for fighting for me, my rights, my children, he helped me with divorce/child support modification/parenting plan modification. He is the one to hire if your seeking justice and need to know your legal rights.
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17 Jul, 2022 by Bradley
Dustin has probably doubled or tripled the stress and anxiety that accompanies an early medical retirement. His lack of communication and legal acumen have left me floundering in a time that I cannot afford to be off.
Nothing ever went how he had explained it would. I went 4 months with zero compensation right after my retirement date. I hadn’t recognized his incompetence before this, but I am continually reminded of it. I only had one major request- ensure that post-pension care is covered for this injury.
He assured me it was a done deal!! Then I start getting billed by my Dr, My medications are no longer covered, I can’t even access my retirement accounts (WC and L&I) because he has control.
Worst experience ever. My case was a slam dunk. All he had to do was to file the correct documents on time. Guess that was too much.
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25 May, 2019 by Mark
Dustin is the best L & I lawyer. I was injured from long term, repetitive work and L&I denied my claim. I live in Renton and the drive to Olympia to have Dustin represent me was well worth it. I connected easily with Dustin, being that he worked in Public Works in his early employment and understood from experience the type of work I do. I felt he truly cared about my wellbeing and getting my claim approved. His knowledge of working with L&I is top notch. I would hire Dustin in a heartbeat if I had to do it all over again.
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11 Feb, 2013 by Chad
He is amazing! Mine was a long and drawn out complicated case. As I am sure we can all relate to the government approches thing on their own time and that is not saying they have alot of time with the huge case loads and the meticuls nature of thier work. I say hats off to them and the people who stop for a moment and care a little to much! Dana stuck with my case to the end and finnaly triumphed. I will always be greatful to his help with my case.
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11 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
I have had a case going for years and never hear anything about the progress or anything. I call and it takes forever to get a call back. I always heard good things about this attorney but I am not getting the same results. I have new evidence but they say they do not need it. The evidence makes my case and they say it is not needed....???? Anyone else experience these difficulties.
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27 Oct, 2017 by James w.
David Vail and his firm has handled my injury claim since 2006. They have kept L&I's MANY attempts to dishonestly steer my claim in the wrong direction or using various shady methods to close my injury out thus kicking me to the curb somewhat partially disabled and crippled. David and his firm have fought many attempts to close me out injured by L&I. There is no other law firm I feel that cares for me as this one. David is a very caring man and very capable attorney. Anyone who's saying otherwise might have issues elsewhere as well perhaps. I am staying here with Mr. Vail..thank you to all his staff over the years..May God Bless you all
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14 Apr, 2017 by Felicia
I had a case back in 1995 -2006 with this office and received nothing but respect from David and his staff.
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18 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
My experience with this firm has been crazy. They never call me back, and I sometimes am on hold for 45-60 mins and then no response. These people did not get my crucial MRIs to trial, and it was denied oct 09. They asked me to sign, I believe a 6th or 7th attorney. Apparently, they're going thru attorneys like its toilet paper. Getting any response from this office is almost non-existent or doesn't happen. These people never call to update me. I want to fire this firm, they're very unprofessional!
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08 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
This SOB stole money from my mother while she was in a nursing home. He then threatened me and my children, said Accidents Happen To People Like You.
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03 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
http://www.noethics.net/News/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=12945&Itemid=100 The state of Washington presented Charles Williamson Talbot with a law license in 1977 after he graduated from the University of Puget Sound Law School.
The Washington State Bar found Charlie guilty of the following misconduct.
Failed to act with due diligence (slacker)
Failed to communicate with client
Failed to properly supervise office staff
As a consequence of his misconduct, the apologists for Attorney Misfits sitting on the Washington State Supreme Court punished Charlie by gifting him with a complimentary reprimand.
As we speak (ca. January 2016), Charlie practices at 5005 Center Street in Tacoma, Washington.
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20 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Talbot went over and beyond for me on my social security case. He was very thorough and continued to fight until I got my benefits. Thanks Mr. Talbot!
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03 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney for a workers compensation claim. The office totally did nothing and dropped the ball on an issue that he was alerted to that needed to be addressed immediately. I was lectured and treated rudely by his legal assistant or whatever the person may have been (maybe just a receptionist handling my claim). I think he is too comfortable making too much money off of people doing a poor job.
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04 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
I just dropped Mr Manza from representing me.
I still do not know after talking to him wether my case was not important to him or he is way too busy to handle it.
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06 Apr, 2016 by Enrique ugas
David was proffesional, but instead of hiring him you should just hire his paralegal heidi; because she is likely the only one you will ever speak with.
Not only that but knowing that i required more than 1 surgery and after 6 weeks on the case; as soon as my first surgery was scheduled-and the employer protested-he was so quick to drop the case after NO EFFORT WHATSOEVER.
THIS GUY WILL ONLY WASTE YOUR TIME
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04 May, 2012 by Anonymous
He is the worst lawyer that i have ever hired, he is in no way worth minium wage. He is a little salesman who lets he office girls run the show and he has no clue on whats going on there, he out if you know what i mean. So for anybody who was looking to hire him you better take a second look he is a joke. He did"nt help me at all on this case, i did all the foot work and he office girls did nothing but hang the phone up on me , for asking whats really going on with my case. David small is not a good attoreny and anybody who hires him is going to find out the hard way
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17 Feb, 2022 by Betty
My husband died May 11,2020,Had an open claim with Labor Industries Self-insured Claim.I have called my/this attorney unable to get through. Secretary says on a line, busy ect. Leave message to call me , never does. Received a letter from him January 10th that said they had received a portion of my husband's settlement. Said " Enclosed please find a check with the proceeds of that payment less full attorney fees plus $23 in miscellaneous. Nothing ENCLOSED ,NOTHING,I have called several times to talk with him..He is always with a client,and unable to speak with me according to the secretary. There was NO CHECK enclosed! That is the truth.I have not recieved anything. I try to call about the missing check. I have NO money, been waiting for help since my husband died. To recieve a letter from my attorney, that says enclosed please find a check with the proceeds...and NOTHING there, was very disheartening. No words to explain what I am going through. . Depending on and attorney that doesn't reach out to his client even after leaving a message. Letter stated self-injured employer has paid $30,7771.41 and I has the widow, have not recieved a dime...At this point in time I would probably think twice if asked about my attorney. The least he could do is return my calls,let me know what is going on...PAY THE GRIEVING WIDOW, SOME OF THE MONEY. I am appalled at his actions... I have not a clue what is going on, never hear from him ....Never takes my calls, has not answered my letters, did not pay me anything from my decease husbands proceeds he received..My letter said enclosed please find a check....Again NOTHING ENCLOSED...I HAVE RECIEVED NOTHING... To the point cannot pay house payment, taxes, nothing. Thank-you for letting me vent. The least he could do is accept my phone calls and explain...I don't care if it is shared public......Maybe that office will respond, or he will. please make it open to public
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16 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Hired him, fired him! Told me my case was not worth more than arbitration limits without talking to Specialist first whose report stated worth much more. Did not vet witness who turned out to be lying. Other mistakes, but these were major ones new attorney had to deal with.
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24 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Brock Stiles will not fight for you. We went in front of a judge for my SS case and he didn't bring up a couple of things he said he would and seemed lazy and didn't hardly deliberate on my behalf. I've been working with him for the past couple of years but I felt the effort on his part wasn't there.
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08 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I fired this man because he has no people skills wants to talk to his clients like crap don't hire this man at all!!
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11 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
My case was apparently unworked for 2.5 years. When my case was dropped, I requested my file. I was sent 1 letter.
Over the 2.5 years, I repeatedly called and asked for updates, rarely were my calls returned. When they were, updates were vague and of no substance.
Due to other actions of Doughery my case determined unrepresentable by other lawyers I approached with my case.
In the end I was left personally responsible medical bills for an auto accident of which i was not at fault.
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22 Nov, 2018 by Richard
I hired Johnnie Holtmann to represent me in a divorce action. I needed a quick infusion of cash in order to pay some bills, including his attorney bill. He recommended that I use the qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) process to transfer funds from my wife’s account. The court ordered that these funds be transferred as a “fixed” amount. Unfortunately, the result was that the transfer took four months instead of a few weeks. The bottom line was that I relied on his legal recommendations and that damaged me. My credit score suffered because I could not pay my bills in a timely way. I also lost money in the transaction because the monies were not put into a “fixed” account such as a savings account, but were put into a “variable” account that lost roughly 9 percent of its value over that time period.
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07 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
I was injured on the port of Tacoma and diagnosed needing 4 FUSIONS in my lumbar spine. My orthepedic surgeon advised me that you can only get 2, so change jobs or retire. Mr. Sweeting acted as if he was sincere and caring. Then he sent me to doctors who stated "returned to pre-injury condition". Then my benefits were cut off. He led me to believe that there was to be a fight (in court). One doctor took 6 weeks to manufacture this report (and even went on vacation). I believe Sweeting agreed to NOT TAKE THESE REPORTS to court before they even wrote them. I DID send these reports to medical board, Quality assurance and NONE of the nine doctors (on the board) agreed with these reports. I persued medical malpractice, but no attorney (of about 80-100) would take the case. (there were lawyers in Tri-cities, Vancouver, and Spokane that knew who these doctors were) Unfortunately, the one I paid $1000 to review, Called Sweeting.
Sweeting led me to poverty. He called me 10 times while I was hunting, saying he had to have me sign docs and return. I told him to send them to a co-hunter, he agreed. (HE NEVER SENT ANYTHING UNTIL I RETURNED to Tacoma) He called back and said "where are you calling from? How is your phone getting out?" I told him "We are camped at the intersection of *&# and 254. Within a day or so I had guys walking up to me saying "You look firmiliar, what is your name, where are you from?" FOR A WEEK at least, in 12-18 inches of snow. My friends would say "that was wierd, those guys are following you" and Sweeting refused to take them to court. He sold me out. I went 66 months with NO PAY at all. Now I finally get Soc Sec. but that $930 a WEEK THAT I AM DUE would have been nice. He is nothing more than a WHITE COLLAR CRIMINAL.
PS I found out about the investigation thru a Soc. Sec. investigator that my ex-wife was calling.
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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.
