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06 Sep, 2024 by Matthew howard
The Perenich Law Firm is not a transaction; it is a relationship. In June 2019, my family was victimized by a drunk driver that caused serious bodily injury at nearly 3 times the blood alcohol limit and did a hit-and-run. I had an insurance company (State Farm) that spent almost a year, refusing to acknowledge the coverage that I purchased. Then State Farm took over three years to finally agree to pay us victims for our underinsured motorist coverage, and only paid it after we initiated a bad faith claim. The firm supported us through depositions in the defendants criminal case. After waiting on the state of Florida to convict the criminal, we filed our civil suit with the fifth amendment protection stripped away. We sued the bar successfully, we sued our insurance company successfully, and we sued the defendant civilly successfully. The entire time, the firm was helping to arrange medical care through letters of protection and negotiating bills down.
It took us five years to bring all of the actions to a close. A wonderful five-year relationship I pray to God that I never need them again but if I do, I know they’re there.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Victoriano garcia
Great law firm! Pleasuring working with Terence! & Kahreem Gilks was an excellent paralegal.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Victoriano garcia
16 Nov, 2024 by Sarah sesi
David was the perfect attorney. He gave guidance in all areas when needed. Offered plenty of patience throughout the process. Highly recommend!
Thank you for everything.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Annelise defrank
David was wonderful for my FL bar C&F situation and exactly what I needed. I’m so happy I hired him and had him by my side during my hearing. David used to be on the board and knows what they’re looking for so his advice is invaluable. His fee was very reasonable too! I’m so glad I found him and cannot recommend him enough!
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28 Nov, 2023 by Justin downing
I just wanted to share what a pleasant experience I had using Dave and his firm. Dave recently handled my divorce and I must say, as far as attorneys go, he’s the guy you want . He made sure to address all of my concerns , listen and work with me through the tough process and was able to convey to opposing counsel without causing issues . We have kids in my marriage / divorce and I knew things needed to be handled delicately to achieve the best situation for our children and he did just that . He’s prompt , direct , respectful, friendly , listens to your concerns and guides you through the process as well as making sure to get things accomplished in a timely manner . I’m very please with how things turned out thanks to Dave and not once did I feel he didn’t have my best or my children’s best interest at heart . This is your guy. Hands down
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09 Jan, 2025 by Melissa hogan
I was hesitant to hire an attorney after my car accident but I’m so glad I hired Scott Marshall. When I initially had questions, he called me personally and answered every one of them. I really appreciate that he took the time to speak with me. Working with his paralegal Judi Ware was an absolutely wonderful experience. She was quick to answer all my questions and kept in touch with me every step of the way. I felt such a wonderful sense of peace knowing my case was being handled in such a prompt and professional manner. I’m happy to say the outcome was even better than I expected. I would not hesitate to recommend.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Zobeida olmeda
12 Nov, 2024 by Susan n
Scott’s office recently completed an injury process for me. I was hit by a car while riding my bike. I didn’t think I would need a lawyer since I have insurance and so did the driver, but my husband had Scott’s
card from a bicycling event we had
attended. I am so glad we contacted his office - the process is incredibly complicated; piles of bills came in without much explanation or with mistaken information. Each time I called their legal assistant, Judi, and ahe followed up quickly and efficiently! This was an incredible help in freeing me up to focus on rehabilitation and also saved me a lot of money that I could have spent paying bills that were not my responsibility. I was neber left hanging trying to figure out the confusing communications. I was consistently kept up to date. They patiently explained the intricacies of the process. Scott coached me on my role in the different parts of the process. They were consistently professional, helpful, very knowledgeable about Florida bicycle law and quite effective. I can’t imagine a better organization to work with!
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03 Feb, 2025 by Jose natividad prado
We are very thankful for this wonderful team of lawyers and specially Legal assistant, Joliz. She walked us through step by step and any questions we had about anything regarding my wife’s case, she had no problem taking her time and explaining it in a way we could understand. Everything got resolved with my wife’s car accident and couldn’t have been better represented. Thank you all of you guys!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Mark sigmon
My Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Attorney Lorrie Robinson and her Legal Assistant Ally were a Godsend to me and they were very patient with my limitations and provided the best support, advice, tenacity, and fight on my behalf towards a fully favorable disability decision. No one could go wrong choosing this firm to represent you through the daunting process and getting you that fully favorable decision. Thank you to the firm, and of course infinity thanks to Lorrie and Ally, God Bless and Merry Christmas.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Julia cason
Matt and his team were extremely helpful throughout the entire process. This was the first time we went through something like this and they made it very easy for us. Both Matt and Christine were quick to answer any questions we had and were very thorough. Thank you!!!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Dominic demaio
This practice is amazing all the staff from Becca to Dave provide such seem less and excellent service. They truly put your health first and are not pushy towards anything that you may not want to do. The referrals they also had for us were beyond professional and so helpful towards our recovery. Would recommend anyone who needs help this is the team to go with!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Francisco vazquez
The care provided by your firm was second to none, furthermore the service for our were greatly appreciated, blessings to All of you at yours firm and families.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Kandice hamel
03 Feb, 2025 by Jose natividad prado
We are very thankful for this wonderful team of lawyers and specially Legal assistant, Joliz. She walked us through step by step and any questions we had about anything regarding my wife’s case, she had no problem taking her time and explaining it in a way we could understand. Everything got resolved with my wife’s car accident and couldn’t have been better represented. Thank you all of you guys!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Mark sigmon
My Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Attorney Lorrie Robinson and her Legal Assistant Ally were a Godsend to me and they were very patient with my limitations and provided the best support, advice, tenacity, and fight on my behalf towards a fully favorable disability decision. No one could go wrong choosing this firm to represent you through the daunting process and getting you that fully favorable decision. Thank you to the firm, and of course infinity thanks to Lorrie and Ally, God Bless and Merry Christmas.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Julia cason
Matt and his team were extremely helpful throughout the entire process. This was the first time we went through something like this and they made it very easy for us. Both Matt and Christine were quick to answer any questions we had and were very thorough. Thank you!!!
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12 Jun, 2023 by Christine
I spoke with Melissa yesterday as my son was in an accident. She responded so quickly. She is very knowledgeable and provided me with a thorough consultation and even gave me additional information that I was not even aware of that could save us from future issues. She is the best.
Christine F.- Tampa, Florida
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23 Jul, 2021 by Justen
Years ago my infant son was a passenger in a car that was involved in an accident and I contacted Melissa Solevilla at Carey Leisure & Neal. Recently I was also involved in a accident and again contacted Melissa. Both times she was very compassionate about what we went through and explained the ins and outs of what to expect when reaching a conclusion. I feel I was given good advice and no matter how many questions I had, she and all that worked there were always available. I highly recommend Carey Leisure & Neal.
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22 Jun, 2018 by Kristy
Not one, but two of my children were involved in separate automobile accidents. Melissa was there to help us through the steps, talked us through all of our options, and helped us to make very informed decisions. There were calls, texts, and emails between us, she went well above and beyond what I had expected from her. I appreciated the way that she handled the cases, the time she took to explain things to my children, and the time she also took to explain to myself what was happening step by step. She listened, and also educated us to the importance of certain aspects of the cases. I would highly recommend her and use her again.
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17 Jul, 2018 by Scott
Working with Adam, I felt that I had a person on my side to walk through this process with me. He always kept me in the loop as to what was going on, and responded quickly to any questions I had. He made everything easy to understand and was able to explain details in a common language. Thanks Adam!
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05 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Thank You Adam, I am grateful for the Professional guidance & Legal representation by Mr. Adam Talley Esq. who had accepted my WC case on a short notice and protected my legal rights through out the case. Thank you Ms. Shara for your patience and excellent legal teamwork. The Haddad & Associates, Scott Marshall Esq. and Adam Talley Esq. is a power house of a Law Firm in the entire state of Florida. Thank You again.
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12 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Talley knows what he's doing 100%.... Hassle free and no pressure whatsoever. He even came to our home to get our case started.
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05 Aug, 2017 by Andrea
I was rear ended on April 28, 2016 and had injuries to my neck. I did not want to be stuck with medical bills so I knew I had to find a personal injury attorney. I chose an attorney that did not have a billboard. I found William Schneikart on line. Little did I know Bill would put the gloves on for me and fight for what was right and just. Bill was compassionate to me and took his time obtaining the information. He was patient and has a calming demeanor. I could tell right away he was passionate about his job and believed in what he did. Bill walked me through step by step and informed me that the case could take six months or longer. Bill always kept me updated on the progress of my case. Bill worked tirelessly obtaining all my medical records, the accident report, information from the at fault insurance company and my insurance company. My insurance company stepped up to the plate. He referred me to the best medical/chiropractor clinics. I had to get an MRI of my neck (the first one ever). I went to all my medical appointments, physical therapy, and I had procedures (facet blocks, epidural, disc decompression) to ease my headaches and neck pain. I had headaches most days. Bill kept me going because there were times when I wanted to give up since the at fault insurance company offered a low ball settlement which would not begin to cover my medical bills. I was stressed out and depressed. Bill (and his assistant Kelsey) gave me words of encouragement. The at fault insurance company refused to give what was right. The case would have to go to court. Although Bill is an excellent litigator, he knew this may be a long drawn out case. Bill brought in a married attorney team that had ALOT of experience dealing with the at fault insurance company to help with the fight. Bill works with this attorney team often. My case was resolved by May 19, 2017. It just took a little while to get the details worked out, and then we were delayed by the court for about a month. The at fault insurance company agreed to pay the maximum. I was relieved, since the medical bills will be covered and after attorney fees I will have enough for future treatments if needed. Bill will fight for you! I would hire him again in a heart beat!
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05 Sep, 2014 by Ashley
Very pleased how everything was handled an kept me informed of everything I would be very likely to recommend him to someone or use him again if I need was very helpfully an looked out for my well-being an what was best!!
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29 Aug, 2014 by Michael
Hello My name is Michael . I had an accident on June 15,2013. I needed a real professional Attorney specializing in auto accidents. Attorney William Schneikart was recommended by a friend. I Found him to be Knowledgeable, Trustworthy, and had a real concern of my injuries and needs. He took the time to Explain in detail and laymen's term the process of the Claim. I was Impressed. I would surly Recommend Attorney William Schneikarts. He Cares.
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09 Aug, 2019 by Ryan
Chris helped me with my car accident. He was great, and would use him again.
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28 Jul, 2019 by Leigh
Chris helped me after a car accident, he was easy to contact and always was there when I had questions. In the end, he got a great result in my case. I highly recommend him.
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28 Jul, 2019 by Corey
I've used Mr. Hamblen on numerous occasions. He is very prompt and never has let me down. I reccomend his services to anyone who seeks an attorney. Very reasonable with his retainer fees. Trust worthy and diligent. Chris Hamblen is the people's attorney!
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22 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
John Davis is a knowledgeable & articulate attorney who provided me with extremely professional and compassionate representation during a challenging time. My case was complex and time consuming & everyone I dealt with at the practice was respectful & attentive.
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31 Mar, 2015 by Sally
Mr Fernandez handled my case in Florida and continued to do so when I returned home to Maine. I found Mr Fernandez and his staff to be extremely helpful and we're always there to ease my concerns. I am very satisfied in the manner in which he resolved my case.
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02 Mar, 2015 by Jane
For over 15 years, Mr. Fernandez is our first resource for any legal situation. Whether it is a business operation issue, personal injury or family law – John and his staff handles all issues promptly and wisely. We highly recommend to all our family and business associates this law firm.
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23 Jun, 2022 by Danielle
I honestly can’t say enough about this law firm and all the people who work there, it’s a true team and family vibe. Everyone pitches in to support you as a person, to work hard on your case and to try their best to get you Justice.
They work so diligently to effectively communicate with you every single step of the way. Attention to detail and kindness, infinite amounts of both knowledge and passion for their clients, cases and causes.
Professional but relatable NOT stuffy which is so important, I wanted to be a part of my case and understand everything and have a say, not just be a person in a chair that is talked about, and talked at but never talked to…and they delivered! I was included in everything and most importantly I WAS HEARD by my amazing team of professionals especially my lawyer Matthew Carney who was literally amazing!! He passionately defended me when opposing counsel was coming at me disrespectfully. He fought hard and was realistic with me and always told me the hard truths in the nature of my case. I honestly have never felt more confident putting something so important into the hands of others before but they handled my case as if it were their own. I will be forever grateful to every single person in that office that I got to know and who got to know me. I will FOREVER recommend them to anyone and everyone in need of legal representation because honestly they have a special brand, a special formula which makes them successful and that is to treat every client like they are the only client they have. I spoke with my lawyer twice as much as I spoke to his wonderful paralegal Stephanie, he never passed me off to assistants to handle what were probably textbook questions and concerns but instead he chose to handle them himself and made himself easily accessible via text, email and phone calls.
I am a lot and bless him, he handled me with so much kindness and concern, everyone in the whole firm that I interacted with did. I can’t say enough! If more people in the world were like the members of this law firm, the world would be such an amazingly kind, considerate, and safe place. If trust, compassion, communication, knowledge, skill, passion and experience are important to you when choosing a law firm to handle your most important legal situations, THIS is the law firm for you, hands down!
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28 Oct, 2016 by Judi
Matthew, took an my highly complicated case. (I had previously hired, several other attorneys from T.V)., and they failed to get me any results.
Matthew fought hard and long; putting his 150% into resolving my case. My personal injury case, was complicated due to the misfortune of obtaining attorneys that promised me the stars. These attorneys wanted the results now, they were not willing to fight for me and my rights.
I was blessed to have found Matthew and Carey and Leisure. When, my case was settled after 4 years, due to the negligence of the prior attorneys. Matthew was able to get me a more than fair, settlement.
Matthew helped obtain my dreams and many miracles. Not, only did Matthew put his 150% into my case; he and the Carey and Leisure Firm treated me and my family with respect, kindness, and when I did not understand some legal issues; Matthew took the time to explained my case thoroughly.
If you are thinking about picking up the phone and calling an attorney that you have seen on television. PLEASE "STOP". I know from experience that, you will become a number, NOT a name or a person. I urge you to pick up the phone and call Matthew and The Carey and Leisure Firm.
Thank you Matthew and The Carey and Leisure Firm, for changing my life. God Bless!!
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20 Nov, 2015 by Jennifer
I would highly recommend anyone looking for an excellent attorney to work with Josh. He is approachable, personable, dedicated, and forthright and has helped me understand the complexities of my case every step of the way.
Josh is always available to speak with me personally and to return my emails. I know what a rarity that is in today’s world given the horror stories I have heard from friends and family and their own attorney/client experiences and interactions. I am so very fortunate to have Josh in my corner!
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31 Jul, 2015 by M.t.
Mr. Chilson handled my personal injury case. After the first two years of my case not moving much, Mr. Chilson took over the case and began to get the results we were looking for. He always kept us informed of the status of our case and never left any questions unanswered. Mr. Chilson made accommodations for our work schedules and called us at a time that was convenient for my husband and I to be together each time we spoke with him. I would definitely recommend him to all my friends and family. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.
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20 Nov, 2018 by Jill
Dane Heptner was there for me every step of the way with my personal injury case, helping me with every question I had, calling me back with minimal delay and working very hard to cross every t and dot every i. I enjoyed talking to Dane every time we spoke. His kindness and sense of humor were very much appreciated. I had over $58k in medical bills that he reduced to less than $7k. Dane saved the day during negotiation multiple times in several different creative ways. If you need a passionate, caring lawyer with a heart, creative mind and raw talent for knowing exactly what to say at exactly the right time to win your case, Dane Heptner is the lawyer you need fighting for you.
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22 Aug, 2017 by Jim
I had let my personal injury case linger and several attorneys told me it wasn't a very valuable case. Dane Heptner turned it around and got me over $50,000.00! Great job Dane! I recommend Dane Heptner to anyone with a personal injury case.
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22 Aug, 2018 by Dina
Not only is Attorney Leisure very warm and knowledgeable she’s also very compassionate and works diligently. She did more for my case in four months then another local attorney could do in four years. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking legal counsel in her specialty. I assure you, you will not be disappointed . I am eternally grateful for all she has done for me.
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17 Apr, 2018 by Lauren
I was in a car accident a year ago and called Jodi's office at the scene. I hurt my shoulder and she got me in with a ortho the same day. She is professional, kind and spends time with her clients.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Geishel valverde
If you want to be treated with personal attention- you have found a great attorney and a team that cares. Thank you for setting yourselves apart from any other law firm. Hugs to the entire firm.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Karl
Jim and his team are great to work with. They take care of everything, and allow you to focus on your recovery. Highly recommended.
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08 Jul, 2024 by M l
Jim and his team provided outstanding service and communication throughout the entire process. Jim's guidance was honest, objective and educational. He worked relentlessly to help me achieve the best possible outcome.
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24 Feb, 2025 by Frank connelly
Exceptional Legal Representation – Highly Recommend!
I cannot say enough great things about Magazine & Light Law Group! From the moment I reached out, their team was incredibly professional, compassionate, and knowledgeable. They took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided clear, expert guidance every step of the way.
A special thanks to Attorney Jim Magazine, who went above and beyond in handling my case. His expertise, attention to detail, and unwavering dedication were genuinely outstanding. He fought tirelessly on my behalf, ensuring that I was not only heard but also received the best possible outcome—Attorney Jim Magazine’s ability to navigate complex legal matters with confidence and compassion made all the difference.
The entire Magazine & Light Law Group team demonstrated exceptional communication, professionalism, and results-driven advocacy. If you need a law firm that is experienced, trustworthy, and truly cares about its clients, look no further. Attorney Jim Magazine and his team exceeded all my expectations, and I highly recommend them to anyone needing top-tier legal representation!
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18 Dec, 2024 by Ellen hutt
Being in an accident is not anything someone hopes for, but heaven forbid it happens to you I highly recommend contacting Magazine & Light Law Group.
Everyone I have dealt with has been informative, patient and helpful. Thank you to my case worker, Denise, and my attorney, Jim Magazine for your time, energy and diligence.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Keith giles
The Magazine Group fought hard for me. They kept me updated over the long process and negotiating. One word for Magazine-Tenacious
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21 Sep, 2024 by James
I wasted 2 in a half year hiring this lady… Did everything. I was supposed to. Went to all my appointments. She talk good at first just to get me to hire her… then Force me to sign for
25, 000 out of a 400,000 policy … I’m very disappointed … I lost bad
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28 Mar, 2017 by Eileen
It is hard enough when your in a car accident and your at a lost to what needs to be done between handling insurance company's, doctors visits, phone calls etc. I called Katherine Neal's office for guidance. Not only did I get the guidance i needed, I got the best personal care from Katherine and her staff that a person could ask for. Everything was explained to me 100% I did not have to deal with anything but my recovery. Highly Recommended!!!!
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28 Oct, 2016 by Judi
When I first meet Katherine, she told me Judi, when this case is settled. I want you to purchase something special. I had hired 3 other attorneys that failed to get me results. So, I was fairly skeptical.
Katherine helped fight for my rights and turned a very complicated case into, an unexpected Happy Ending.
If you are thinking about calling an attorney for a personal injury case, and you see that phone number on the television, I urge you to "STOP". You will be just a number, not a person, and just a fast buck for these law firms. I have experienced this. Now, I am talking from experience, please pick up the phone and call Katherine, and the Carey and Leisure Firm.
Not, only did she and the Carey Leisure Firm, get me a more than fair settlement. They truly cared about me and my family. I was always treated with the utmost respect, and kindness.
If you are looking for that miracle, Katherine will change your life forever.
When they settled my case, just about a month ago. I purchased that something special Katherine asked me to do, I purchased our home, our dream, and we our now on our way to a new journey in our life. If it was not for Katherine and Carey and Leisure Law Firm I would not be starting this new chapter in my life. She is truly a "Miracle Worker".
From the bottom of my heart, Thank You Katherine and the Carey and Leisure Family. You will always be a part of my friends, and my family.
God Bless
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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:
-
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.
