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23 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Brian did a great job with my case,and kept me well informed on information as it happened. His assistance with bills and other problems were addressed qiuckly.
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22 Feb, 2012 by Saundra
I hired Brian I believe in 2007 and he was awsome. In 2009 i was in a bad accident and I needed an attorney again, but I couldnt find his number so I tried calling other attorneys and they refused to help me. Then I finally found Brian Allen number after several weeks and he said he could help me without any hesitation. He is very helpful, he kept me informed on everything that went on with my case. If i called and he wasnt available he was always quick to return my call. I always recommend him to anyone that has been in an accident that needs a great attorney.
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23 Aug, 2011 by John
You always hear the horror stories about Attornies but my experience with Brian blew all of my expectations out of the water. Brian is an attorney above all others, he was very knowledgeable, professional and always did more than what he said he was going to do. The one & only problem I have with Brian is that at this point I don't have anything else for him to do for me. You can be comforted that you will be in the best of care with Brian on your side.
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02 Mar, 2016 by Linda
I was in a terrible motorcycle accident in 2012 that resulted in permanent injuries. I found Scott Palumbo quite by accident in 2013 and was so glad that I did, as the original attorney I was with, lost his license to practice law! Right from the start, you could tell that you were dealing with a talented family man who is passionate about his work, and who has principals and integrity. I immediately knew that I was in capable, experienced hands, which instantly put my mind at ease after the experience I had with the prior attorney.
Over the last couple of years I have gotten to know Scott & all I can tell you is that he is an exceptional "one in a million" professional and is a man of substance. He is detailed, trustworthy, provides expert guidance, informative through out the entire process, gets results and most importantly puts your interests well ahead of his own. I will always be truly grateful to both Scott and his extremely competent Legal Assistant Susan and consider myself very blessed for having found him.
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17 Aug, 2015 by Chad mcbride
It was a privilege to have Scott Palumbo as my attorney.
I was involved in a motorcycle accident causing hospitalization and rehabilitation.
To find quality representation, I asked my mother to contact her friend who is the City Attorney of my hometown. She recommended that I contact Palumbo Wolfe & Palumbo.
To sum up my experience, everything went smoothly and I always knew what to expect. Scott took the time to answer my questions thoroughly and gave me a sense of ease. It was very easy to contact Scott when I needed something.
I find Scott's character honest, knowledgeable, and confident.
I am more than happy with the results.
I highly recommend Scott to represent cases involving motorcycle accidents.
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06 May, 2015 by Kevin
Hopefully you will never need the services Palumbo Wolfe & Palumbo offer, but if you do you will not find better representation than Scott Palumbo and staff. He specializes in representing catastrophic and life changing injury cases. He is the Michael Jordan of Trial Attorneys, no joke. My case went 3 years and finally settled days prior to trial. During that time I watched Mr. Palumbo in front of the judge and was truly impressed at his ability to think 12 steps ahead of the defense. He is a family man with high standards and exceptional character. He is a straight shooter and will tell you how it is. He has great support staff that communicates very well and doesn't miss a thing.
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13 Feb, 2018 by Kc
We liked this man right off! His demeanor. My husband and myself were in an area we were/are ignorant about but we felt the weight come off our shoulders after meeting Steven Weinberger and his partner. We feel so fortunate that they were referred to us and that Steven was the man that would take our case. He was on top of it from the beginning and before 24 hours was up he had the situation sorted out and in order. The time needed to close the deal was dependent upon the snail-mail system. Certain original legal papers were needed. Any waiting was from that and even with that it was handled with us being informed about what was. He talked to lawyers and insurance companies to see what really was happening and what was next. Steve always returned phone calls even when he was on vacation. He dug into the situation quickly and discovered more in our favor than we ever thought possible. He made a bad situation feel better and took care of us. We can't say enough about how happy we are that Steven was introduced into our lives. He's no stuffed shirt either, just one heck of a great guy/lawyer.
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15 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Steve is exactly the type of person you want working on your case, he is professional, knowledgeable, and most importantly interested in you and your situation. He was willing to meet with me on short notice and helped me through a difficult and very stressful situation. After taking his advice I feel more than relieved and am now able to move forward with my life. Thank you Steve.
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01 Nov, 2016 by Fred
Steve reversed an initial claim from my insurance company where they denied my water damage claim.
he was very implicit that when i reached out to him that i give him specifics to my case.
He reviewed them and again asked many questions to get clarification from me..he did not want innuendos or vague input
Once i completed my summary he professionally discussed each point with me so he was clear as to what actually happened.
He then constructed a lefter outlining my facts and timelines.
He sent the letter to State farm and initiated verbal communication with their claim department.
At all intervals he kept me informed of the discussions and counseled me as to my needed steps.
It was about 4 days after Steves intervention and communication with my state farm agent etc that the corporeal office reversed their initial decision.
His thoroughness and follow ups were impeccable.
His accessibility was amazing..very prompt and professional
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31 May, 2016 by Chris
Mark was very informative. He spelled out, in detail, what our options were. His office staff were friendly and very helpful any and every time we called with questions. I would highly recommend this law firm.
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19 Feb, 2016 by Patricia
This law firm was great. From the first day we went there, very nervous, they helped us see that there was a light a the end of the tunnel. They guided us in every way, whenever I had questions, they responded back within hours. Highly recommend and if I ever need further assistance will go back to them.
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01 Feb, 2016 by Linda
Mark Westbrook is one of the BEST law firms we have ever felt with! We were a nervous wreck to go through bankruptcy but Mr. Westbrook made us feel very much at ease! His employees were all very helpful and guided us smoothly through the process! We highly recommend this firm!
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28 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Peter Gorski and his team of caring professionals successfully settled a very difficult personal injury case involving a severe dog attack. We are very pleased that we chose Peter Gorski to represent us, given the many choices that are available. He personally responded to our questions and concerns. He devoted much time and attention to the case to make sure that we received the best settlement. His office staff is excellent and very helpful. We strongly recommend.
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15 Apr, 2011 by Paul
I had a wrongful death medical malpractice lawsuit case Mr. Gorski handled for me. I was very pleased with the treatment from Mr. Gorski and his office. I was treated like family and as if I were the only case the were working on. That is how i felt. They were very professional, Knowledgeable, and attentive.
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13 Apr, 2011 by Betty
Mr. Gorski represented me after an auto accident, and I am very pleased with the way he dealt with my medical providers and negotiated settlements. I'm sure I would not have had the same personalized care with any other firm. Mr. Gorski and his staff worked hard on my behalf so I could focus on recovery. I recommended Mr. Gorski to a colleague after her injury in an accident, and she was extremely pleased with Mr. Gorski's representation.
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03 Oct, 2018 by Lenny s.
I am very happy I used Lerner and Rowe. My case took three years, but it was very well worth it. My attorney Mr. Howard and my call rep Gabby Fernandez made my three years go quickly. All questions were always answered with no delay. I always felt welcome.
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16 Aug, 2017 by Celia a
Everyone worked so hard to help my family and I. Thank you all. I appreciate all the hard work and dedication. Gabby was great to deal with. Alicia got me more money than I expected. I appreciated everything you all did.
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01 Sep, 2016 by D newman
After two and a half years, I ended up being very satisfied with my case. I met Glen Lerner 20 years ago when he would come into my restaurant in Vegas before going to his gym. He made me believe in his firm. Tom Howard and his team were awesome. I'm very happy.
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22 Feb, 2018 by Robert
Michael Pearson has handled a number of aviation issues for our Part 135 charter company. His aviation experience is so vast that there was never any time wasted on training our lawyer on our industry specific regulations.
Our biggest case involve a hostile takeover attempt involving a fraudulent investment group. Mr. Pearson stood by us and fought the issue all the way through until he successfully recaptured our company for us. I whole heartedly recommend his services.
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07 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
Mr. Pearson made me feel comfortable and at ease even when I was very concerned about my injury case. He was very involved in my case and showed a high level of ethics and professionalism while he was representing me. My results were outstanding. I recommend him without reservation.
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20 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
I have worked with many attorneys over the years. He was by far the most professional. I will always use him for my personal and business issues.
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14 Dec, 2017 by William
Michael Medina is an excellent lawyer! Answered all of my questions and got results in a swift manner.
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14 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Michael is a one-of-a-kind attorney. I hired him to defend me in an accident. The driver of the vehicle was drunk and at fault. I sustained injuries that changed my life forever. He is professional, genuine, and knows how to WIN cases. I highly recommend him!
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14 Dec, 2017 by Rene leyva
Mr Medina helped me and my family Towards a fatal car accident my parents had, my parents and older sister deceased. He treated my like family guide me thru steps and still keeps in contact
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10 Nov, 2014 by Taylor
We are so thankful that we had someone like Mark to help us through such a hard time. Mark is extremely professional and knowledgeable. I never doubted that he knew what he was doing and had the background and legal expertise to get us through any hurdles. He was very good at keeping us informed throughout the entire legal process. He was very good at explaining the options and letting us decide which route to take. When we were unsure, we relied on his judgement and could not be happier with the results. Mark is also surrounded by an amazing legal team including his colleague Lincoln and assistant Gay. They made us feel like a part of their family. I always felt that they had our best interest in mind. Thank you for a great job Mark, we are very grateful.
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10 Nov, 2014 by Brittany
Mark is an amazing person and he goes out of his way to make you feel like family. He also stands up for you more then you could imagine. He will fight for you and never give up. He is extremely loving and kind but don't forget that he is a lawyer and has that side of him fighting for you at all times. Mark is the very best at what he does. He has been in my life for a long time and it is hard to think about not having him calling to see how I am doing. I also want to add that Mark has a great team behind him. Gay is amazing at being there for you no matter what you need. I just want to thank them for helping me through one of the hardest things I have ever been through.
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28 Sep, 2016 by Bill
Jim Penney has successfully assisted with multiple unfortunate civil issues encountered here in Southeastern Arizona.
In a government position, a female co-worker made bogus accusations that she had been sexually harassed. When it came time for the deposition, she suddenly had a severe case of amnesia and in fact became quite angry when Jim caught her in her insatiable scenario of lies.
At a retail store, a female manager kept using unwelcomed words of endearment such as “hon, daring, sweetie…” when we were not dating. After multiple requests to stop such conduct, termination was the ultimate punishment. Jim was able to obtain a “Right to Sue Letter” from the E.E.O.C.
An H.O.A. President felt it was OK for females to enter the Men’s shower facility unannounced. An effective but diplomatic warning from Jim took care of that problem.
Another employer felt it was appropriate to terminate an employee for reporting serious health and safety issues on the job site in addition to known sex offenders hanging out in the children’s area. His representation earned an unemployment insurance claim.
Jim has been a straight shooter when it comes to a projected case outcome and finances. He returns the majority of phone calls within 24 hours. Thus he has truly earned “The Best Civil Attorney in Southeast Arizona”
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28 May, 2015 by Bonnie
My experience with Mr. Penny begin about 10 years ago when he was selected as someone to help me during an injury. He successfully provided an opportunity for a fair settlement due to that injury. My experiences with him provided his expertise and assistance at a very emotional time. He went on to provide other necessary services and information as needed in the past 10 years.
Always professional, friendly and helpful. He is highly recommended by me and my husband.
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12 Aug, 2023 by Scott hardy
Highly recommend
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03 Apr, 2020 by Winston white
28 Nov, 2017 by Shawn
John represented my family during an unexpected loss. When a third party started making false claims John was able to provide honest, legal and ethical solutions. John proved that he cares about his clients and will do whatever he can to assist. John has shown that he is above reproach and treats his clients as family.
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09 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Handled a several million dollor estate that was left to charities and a $100,000 that was not , equally , with great care and concern. Trust him implisidly.
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18 Sep, 2015 by Personal injury client
My son and I were in a terrible 3-car accident in Tucson. I went to Hollingsworth Kelly Law Firm and they really came through for us. The staff is professional and experienced. I was pleased with our settlements and that they were able to reduce our hospital liens. Hollingsworth Kelly also set-up a conservatorship for my son. I whole-heartedly recommend the attorneys at Hollingsworth Kelly.
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27 Aug, 2015 by Carol
After my car accident, I experienced pain that kept me from performing even easy everyday activities. I
was fortunate to find an outstanding attorney, Louis Hollingsworth, to represent me in my case. Louis
and his staff took care of all the details related to my case--they dealt with the insurance company,
resolved my medical liens, and were always available to answer my questions. I was very pleased with
my settlement and with the professional and caring way I was treated by the Hollingsworth Kelly Law
Firm.
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21 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Page helped me to settle my car accident claim against two very difficult insurance companies. It was a long process due to its complication, but Mr. Page walked me through the whole process. At one point, he told me if this were going to the court, he would still stick to our original engagement letter (you know most attorneys charge differently for the trial) just because he could not stand what the insurance company was trying to do on my claim. Fortunately, my case got satisfactorily settled without going to the court. I think he probably should have retired by now, but I would highly recommend him because he knows what he does and more importantly, he has the ethics that are the key to everything. Thank you so much Mr. Page.
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28 Jul, 2017 by Chad
I could not have asked for a better legal experience. Jim worked efficiently to provide me with the best settlement possible. In an industry lacking moral fiber, Jim is as honest and hardworking of an attorney as you will find. I would gladly refer him to anyone that I cared about.
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26 May, 2016 by Judy
At first Rob wasn't sure if he would take my case. After speaking more at length with him he felt that he did want to help me. It took 3 years. Through the entire process Rob was very caring, compassionate and thorough. I knew he really cared about all of his clients. I live in another state so I would have to come back to AZ to prepare for the depositions and all the doctor appts. I felt like Rob was always with me and helping me. We were able to settle my case before it went to trial.
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18 May, 2016 by Lisa
Atty Kleinschmidt went above and beyond the call of duty on my case. He worked day and night and believed in me and never doubted me or gave up on my case. He was tireless and brilliantly worked my case. This man gives a whole new meaning to attorneys because he truly cares about his cases and believes in the fairness of the law and fight tooth and nail for his clients. He does not pass his work off to associates or assistants he does the research, footwork and hard work. He truly is an old school atty in the modern times with a brilliant mind. You are lucky to be chosen as his his client.
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14 Dec, 2014 by Marie
Andrew's dedication, compassion, and legal knowledge are unsurpassed. He was exceptional in his ability to answer all questions and support my husband and I through a difficult legal process. I knew that Andrew had our family's best interest in mind through every step of the way. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the services he provided. Andrew and all the employees at his firm were professional, prompt, patient, and extremely welcoming. I can truly say that Andrew is dedicated to providing the highest quality legal services, uncompromising ethical standards, and a genuine commitment to and care for those he serves. I wholeheartedly and unreservedly would recommend this lawyer to anyone seeking the absolute best quality of compassionate, professional, and dedicated legal services.
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10 Dec, 2014 by Kyle
My wife was a victim in unimaginable assault. We trusted Mr. Becke with our best interest following this extraordinarily horrific crime and he went above and beyond. He was trustworthy, always kept us informed about where we were with the case and what he was thinking and planning to do. He was easy to reach and we never had to spend time waiting for him or his assistant to get back to us. He was well versed with the law and without a doubt put in more time studying and interpreting the law as well as preparing for various meetings that were scheduled than the opposing side did. I can honestly say he is everything you would want in a lawyer.
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26 Jun, 2018 by David
Mr. Moore has been my attorney for 25 years. I have found his advice to be exemplary. He has always prepared me for realistic outcomes. You cant go wrong hiring this attorney.
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24 May, 2018 by Elizabeth
Mr. Moore represented me on several different occasions. He explained to me what to expect and got me exactly what I was due in a quick and efficient manner. I highly recommend him.
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25 Oct, 2015 by Sue
Ray and his assistant Maureen were incredible with all of the details that were covered and also keeping in touch with us to let us know the status of the lawsuit. Ray is extremely knowledgeable not only in his field but many other venues. I was very comfortable in discussing the case and the options that were presented. Great Barrister. In case you are wondering, Barrister is another name for attorney. lol
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18 Nov, 2019 by Jenelle
Justin did a wonderful job representing me in my case and was able to negotiate a satisfactory settlement in a reasonable amount of time. Justin was very professional and helpful during a traumatic time and made the experience as pleasant as possible given the circumstances. I would definitely recommend Justin in the future!
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06 Sep, 2016 by Joseph j
So far nick has been there for me every time I have called him, even though he has been practicing law for two years, when you me you will see that His experience makes you think he is a seasoned attorney. I had to have my right leg amputed because of a product that I won't name I can tell you nick is compassionate actually cares about is client. I usually don't write reviews but this case this firmor Desert sportsman five stars.
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04 Aug, 2022 by Delphine
Kevin is the best lawyer in all of Arizona. He helped me understand my possibilities really well, the laws too and a real plan to help me. He took the time to answer all my messages with details. He really took all my requests into consideration. I am French and my English is not perfect, I do not know the laws well also in America. But with Kevin everything was so clear. He will definitely be my lawyer for all my life. He is the most humane and compassionate and honest person I have ever met in America. He's not just a lawyer, he has something even more powerful, like an angel. I am filled with gratitude that God put it on my path. Thank you Kevin for being such a perfect human being
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19 Oct, 2016 by Michael
Mr. Reed handled my case in a very professional manner with excellent results. Overall I enjoyed having Mr. Reed as my attorney and would highly reccomend him to others.
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09 Sep, 2016 by Sydnee
Mr. Hicks represented me in an accident case years ago and now recently with a landlord problem. I was extremely happy with his service. He was there for me whenever I had questions. The accident settlement was very fair. He always takes the time to personally talk me through any issue or question. So nice!
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02 Jul, 2019 by Amber
We have hired her three times all together and would do so again. Katherine McDowell is an extreamly hard worker and she is honest and fair. She listens to us and explains everything in an understandable way. We have nothing but good things to say about her and I would reccomend her to anyone.
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27 Jan, 2015 by Ruth
Mr. Diesel is a honest upfront guy. He always kept me informed and was understanding to my families concerns. I'm thankful for having him represent my family. He was everything i was looking for in an attorney.
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13 Jun, 2007 by Anonymous
Jeff did a great job setting up my wife's LLC. He thoroughly explained the different options for business formation and was extremely responsive in getting back to us if we had any questions. I would recommend Jeff to anyone.
In addition, his website www.arizonalawonline.com contained some very helpful information.
Thanks Jeff!
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20 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Fred was very knowledgeable and I'm glad I chose him to be my lawyer. He was always there when I needed to ask him a question. If he wasn't available at the time that I called, he made sure to call me back either same day or next day. He was professional and honest.
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22 Apr, 2015 by David
Evan is an outstanding lawyer. Unlike many lawyers that take what come their way he focuses exclusively upon personal injury and insurance related issues. As a result, his skill and knowledge in these areas are Insurpassable. Competent, aggressive and fair.
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14 Jul, 2016 by Elaine
I was referred to Sam’s office by a friend of mine and I am so happy that I was. I was in a car accident earlier this year and was injured from being hit by a drunk driver. Trying to find a local Phoenix lawyer along with everything else I was going through was overwhelming. I had no idea what to do and was in the hospital for days and then in bed at home after that. They came all the way out to me to hear about my case and helped me get all of the right documentation prepared for my case. I am so grateful for Sam and his staff for all of their help and patience. I was clueless on how to go about getting compensated from my accident but thanks to the Law Offices of Samuel P Moeller I got everything taken care of and I would recommend them to anyone who needs a lawyer after a car accident.
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04 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Very good. I got more compensation then I thought. This lawyer did everything he could to get me what I deserved. Thanks DavI'd A THOMSON
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Do for You
A wrongful death lawyer specializes in representing families who have lost a loved one due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another person or entity. These lawyers help families seek compensation for the emotional and financial losses associated with the untimely death of a loved one, including medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, loss of companionship, and pain and suffering. Wrongful death claims can arise from various situations, including car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, and criminal actions.
If you have lost a family member due to someone else’s wrongful actions, a wrongful death lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and pursue justice on behalf of your loved one.
When Should I Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a wrongful death lawyer if a loved one has died as a result of someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm. Some common reasons to hire a wrongful death lawyer include:
- Car accidents: If a loved one was killed in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident caused by another driver’s negligence (e.g., reckless driving, DUI, or distracted driving), a lawyer can help you file a wrongful death claim.
- Medical malpractice: If a loved one died due to medical negligence, such as a misdiagnosis, surgical error, or medication mistake, a wrongful death lawyer can help you pursue compensation from the healthcare provider.
- Workplace accidents: If your loved one died in a workplace accident or due to unsafe working conditions, you may be entitled to compensation from the employer or third parties responsible for the unsafe conditions.
- Defective products: If a defective product caused your loved one’s death, a lawyer can help you file a wrongful death claim against the manufacturer or distributor of the product.
- Criminal actions: If your loved one was the victim of a criminal act, such as homicide or assault, a wrongful death lawyer can help you pursue a civil claim for damages, even if a criminal case is also ongoing.
- Nursing home negligence: If an elderly loved one died due to neglect or abuse in a nursing home, a lawyer can help you hold the facility accountable for their wrongful actions.
Hiring a wrongful death lawyer soon after the incident ensures that important evidence is preserved and that you can meet any legal deadlines for filing a claim.
What Does a Wrongful Death Lawyer Do?
A wrongful death lawyer provides a wide range of services to help families navigate the legal complexities of a wrongful death claim and seek compensation for their losses. Their responsibilities often include:
- Investigating the death: Conducting a thorough investigation of the circumstances leading to your loved one’s death, gathering evidence such as medical records, accident reports, and witness statements.
- Establishing liability: Identifying who is legally responsible for your loved one’s death, whether it’s an individual, company, or government entity, and building a case showing how their negligence or wrongful actions caused the death.
- Calculating damages: Helping you determine the full extent of your financial and emotional losses, including funeral expenses, medical bills, lost income, loss of companionship, and pain and suffering.
- Filing a wrongful death claim: Preparing and filing the necessary legal documents to initiate a wrongful death lawsuit within the statute of limitations in your state.
- Negotiating settlements: Working with the responsible party’s insurance company or legal team to negotiate a fair settlement for your losses.
- Representing you in court: If a settlement cannot be reached, representing you in court by presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Handling legal deadlines: Ensuring that all legal filings are completed within the deadlines set by your state’s statute of limitations for wrongful death cases.
How Are Wrongful Death Lawyers Paid?
Wrongful death lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win or settle the case. Here’s how it generally works:
- Contingency fee: The lawyer’s fee is usually a percentage of the total settlement or damages awarded, typically ranging from 25% to 40%. You won’t have to pay any upfront fees, and the lawyer only gets paid if they successfully recover compensation for you.
- No fee if no recovery: If the lawyer does not win or settle your case, you generally won’t owe them any legal fees.
- Case expenses: In addition to the contingency fee, you may also be responsible for reimbursing the lawyer for case-related expenses, such as court costs, expert witness fees, and investigation costs. These expenses are typically deducted from the settlement or award.
It’s essential to discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to ensure you understand how much you will owe if your case is successful.
How Much Does a Wrongful Death Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a wrongful death lawyer is usually based on a contingency fee structure, meaning you only pay if the lawyer recovers compensation for you. General cost estimates include:
- Contingency fee percentage: Most wrongful death lawyers charge between 25% and 40% of the total settlement or court award. For example, if you receive a $500,000 settlement and the lawyer’s fee is 33%, the lawyer would receive $165,000, and you would keep the remaining $335,000.
- Case expenses: In addition to the lawyer’s fee, expenses such as court costs, expert witness fees, and investigation costs may be deducted from the settlement or award. These expenses can range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
Make sure to ask your lawyer for a clear explanation of their fees and case-related expenses before proceeding with your wrongful death claim.
Top Questions to Ask a Wrongful Death Lawyer
Before hiring a wrongful death lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they have the experience and resources to handle your case. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with wrongful death cases?
Ensure the lawyer has successfully handled cases similar to yours, whether it’s medical malpractice, car accidents, or workplace deaths. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify the lawyer’s contingency fee percentage and any additional costs, such as case expenses, that you may be responsible for. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and any potential challenges that could affect the outcome. -
How long will the process take?
Wrongful death cases can take time to resolve, so ask how long the lawyer expects the process to last, from filing the claim to reaching a settlement or going to trial. -
Will you handle my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
What types of damages can I recover?
Ask the lawyer to explain the types of compensation you may be entitled to, such as medical bills, funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering.
How to Check the Credibility of a Wrongful Death Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable wrongful death lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for wrongful death experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in wrongful death cases and have successfully handled cases like 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 professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on wrongful death cases.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Membership in organizations like the American Association for Justice (AAJ) or local bar associations can indicate the lawyer’s dedication to wrongful death and personal injury law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a wrongful death lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Death certificate: Bring a copy of your loved one’s death certificate, as this is a key document in wrongful death cases.
- Medical records: If applicable, bring your loved one’s medical records, autopsy reports, or any documentation of their medical care leading up to their death.
- Accident or incident reports: If the wrongful death resulted from an accident, bring any police reports, accident reports, or workplace incident reports.
- Financial records: Provide documentation of your loved one’s income, benefits, and financial contributions to the family to help calculate economic damages.
- Correspondence: Bring any communication you’ve had with the responsible party, their insurance company, or legal representatives.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions for the lawyer about the legal process, potential outcomes, and fees.
- Timeline of events: Be ready to provide a clear timeline of the events leading up to and following your loved one’s death.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice.
