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30 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I have lived in St. Pete for 30 years and have always heard good things about Justin but never expected to need to hire a personal Injury Lawyer. When I got into a bad car accident in 2017, I was in the hospital after to get checked out and figured all of the pain I had was just temporary from the crash impact. Turns out, I suffered a severe neck injury from the accident that required a major surgery, rehab, physical therapy, and nerve damage. Thanks to Justin, I got my bills paid & I got my life back!
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06 Apr, 2019 by Patti
Excellent attorney and very knowledgeable. Handled an extremely difficult case with winning results. My family is grateful to have found him and will always recommend Justin Johnson and his team.
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17 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Very professional & knowledgeable attorneys and staff. They are reliable, especially with this being a difficult time in my life, they walked me through all the steps. I will recommend them to all my family, friends and coworkers. Overall, my experience with their firm was excellent and they achieved the best possible result for my case. A great attorney to have on your side.
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2.3
12 Reviews
3.2
64 Reviews
25 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Please do not waste your time or money. Absolutely useless. I was referred to him by another lawyer. I guess I should give a negative review to him as well for referring me. Did absolutely nothing he said he would do. Nothing
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13 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Myself and fiancé hired him because his children’s biological mother is a drug addict and alcoholic who abuses her two young girls. Should be open and shut right? No it’s not. We made the huge mistake of paying Kelly Hampton 3500 deposit to do absolutely nothing. He has faked court dates, he has lead us on over 2 years now while these poor girls suffer and are starved/beaten when they’re at their bio moms. We can’t afford another attourney right now so this has literally ruined our life and theirs. Run away from this guy he is a complete fake
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12 Feb, 2024 by Jimmy jump
The absolute worst better off representing myself i had to get rid of him in the middle of my case after money was spent so u know he was beyond bad do yourself a favor and LISTEN TO ME OR FIND OUT FOR YOURSELF!
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17 Jul, 2018 by Danita
I hired Sharon to handle my divorce. She was caring, honest, direct, and discreet throughout the entire process. She gave me appropriate advice and direction and honored my requests as well. I enthusiastically recommend her services.
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07 Apr, 2018 by Cherron
I could not be happier with the services I received from Sharon Watson. She is extremely efficient and professional. She was responsive to my phone calls and emails and always available to answer questions. I highly recommend her for any family or criminal law matter.
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22 May, 2013 by Rob
I paid Sharon a $5,000 retainer knowing that it was a "non-refundable: retainer, She took my money and went on vacation the next day. I could not reach her, I had several legal questions, and ended up listening to a non lawyer and dismissed my case. She did nothing for the retainer and although there must be what is called "consideration" for a contract to be legal, she refused to return any of the money. Shortly thereafter, I decided to pursue the divorce; Sharon refused to represent me even though she still had my money. My guess is that she waited for some sucker to giver her the vacation money she needed and she no longer had the money to repay me. I know you may say, well it was non-refundable" and I would agree with you if she had a) done anything for the money and b) been reachable. Not only did she keep my retainer for doing absolutely nothing, she refused to provide counsel after she kept my money. Buyer Beware.
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10 Sep, 2021 by Michael
I asked for an update on my case and he responded that he and his team were "evaluating".
Weeks go by with me following up via email. No answer.
When I messaged him today that I wanted a response or I was going to review him, THAT made Luis respond, "Thanks for the threat."
He states that he recommended me to go get medical procedures. I had gone to 2 doctor visits upon the firm's referral. The first one suggested that I get injections. I said OK. Time went by and nothing was scheduled.
Then they had me come in again for a redundant visit that was just like the previous one. (All-the-while the legal firm is probably getting kick-backs for running up a medical bill and referrals.)
I had finally had it with the place they referred me to. Although I have been going to the chiropractor the firm had sent me to for OVER A YEAR.
The person who hit me has $50k in liability coverage. They talked a BIG game at the start regarding that number and going for the max. Then a settlement offer came in for $10k and they folded.
In my opinion Luis and his team take the easy settlement and do not take cases to trail. Just from what I have seen after taking TWO cases to them.
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18 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney and has been dealing with him for years for couple accident cases. I can say, "Do not listen to the hype he puts in his presentations to gain your trust look at the real facts." The real law states," you never can get more than you pay for" in lei-mans terms under uninsured motorist coverage if your policy is 25k then are you are entitled too is 25k unless assets are involved then you must sue the party. This attorney had me waiting for 2yrs to resolve an accident case due to his continuous moves from law firm to law firm and when doing that it will become a loss to the client, He then accepted the case at the new firm and in 2 mos later the firm decided not to handle the case he had supposedly been working on. I have 122 text messages from this attorney back and forth and also documents scanned and sent to me in which I have kept to present in another matter. Basically, what I am conveying is too research your attorney before hire and get facts not fictions. The result to the 2yr case is still pending and with another firm. Not to discredit this attorney maybe good with other cases but I would not use again.
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27 Jan, 2011 by Iris
Mr.Luis Figureoa is a very excellent lawyer. I'm very gratefull of his work with my case. He keep me posted and review every detail of my case. He worked hard to get the most of my case. He fight for people rights. He is very accurate and know his job to the last detail. I would hire him again if I ever need a lawyer. Thanks.
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03 Mar, 2018 by Niecy
I definitely regret hiring them. They seem so nice and aggressive at the beginning when they are trying to get you as a client and then everything changes.
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11 May, 2015 by Anonymous
John Daly not only gets the job done, but is efficient and goes out of his way to communicate and perform his tasks. He comes to your office and is right there for any questions and Personal Injury work. I have never worked with an attorney that was so efficient and quick with his responses. Thank you John for helping our team and taking care of the people. I highly recommend him.
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04 Aug, 2019 by Michael
Well I love how Mike in above review said about her being professional with her customers. What a ton of lies. Wrong and Very Wrong! I have "pleasure" speaking with her as a client. I was outraged, angry and fact is I fired her and got proof of it. She talked disrespectfully. There was no politeness or sympathy from her. I can't believe how she's managed so far but probably it's because of who she is. Ruthless attorney looking for bigger piece to bid! Client Health or Personal life does not Matter at all. I describe one episode with her from many - the opposite side wanted discovery questions answered in certain period of time. Karen waited till no time left and then ordered me to answer these questions in writing/not typed. This was absolutely inconsiderate since English my third language and it's impossible for me alone. She wouldn't offer any help or invite me to office and answer them together. She's a horrible person who thinks people are working for her not other way around! Do Not Hire her! She cost me my case....
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12 Jun, 2017 by Gui
My preconceived beliefs that all lawyers are all pompous and truly don't care about their clients were dispelled through my experience with Karen. Karen is very professional, courteous , and proved to be a strong advocate for me and my case. I attest that without Jennyfer, I would not have gotten the successful results I am receiving now. To paraphrase, Karen clearly provided representation with my best interests as the main priority, not her personal agenda but mine. I exhort others to have the same positive lawyer/ client relationship that I was able to enjoy without hassles, judgements or attitudes . I am thankful for her representation.
They Work VERY WELL Together.
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18 Jun, 2020 by June
He was very helpful. Dealing with the type of case we had, he was humble with a whole lot of patience.
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13 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
“Attorney” Hancock in the end did so little for me. I initially thought I did good in hiring this firm then came to realize that he and his staff are just “nice” but so incompetent as to their legal duties. His staff lacks knowledge. He is not realistic nor did he fight for my case! If you are seeking legal help you would be better off going with an legal intern rather then this office.
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11 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Debra is very professional and very informational she takes time on your case because she setting you up for victory. She cares about her clients. Best family law attorney in the business.
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18 Apr, 2016 by Felix
i have a case with this lady and all i can say is that shes unprofessional everytime i call during 5 month period the responds that i get is that shes sick or not there. this lady is a lier. dont go there she wont help you at all.
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23 Aug, 2021 by Terry
This guy is more a con man than attorney . did nothing in my slip and fall case , lost it !!! then over charged Me for " Losing " .
#1 losers !!!!!
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23 Sep, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Fener did a great job for me and acheived a fantastic result. I was extremely happy with the way in which he handled my lawsuit. He is extrememly attentive and returned each and every phone call that I made to him, almost always within the hour in which I made it. I would strongly recommend Mr. Feiner to anyone who has been injured.
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15 May, 2024 by Mark
First he accepted my case, then went back on his word. Also very rude.
Would not recommend.
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17 May, 2017 by Kate
Matt handled an injury case for my family a few years ago and the results were life changing. I don't know where we would be without him. If you want a lawyer who really cares about you and your case, this is him. He will give you his cell phone number and be personally available to help you throughout the entire process.
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12 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Run far away from Kevin Smith. He can't be trusted and is very shady. He's a salesman not a lawyer. Tells you what you want to hear and then never delivers. Seemed very unknowledeable on personal injury laws. Never again.
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02 Mar, 2012 by Thomas
I had the misfortune of being struck by a car while riding a bicycle and sustained serious injuries. Mr. Smith was able to obtain a settlement far greater than I had ever anticipated. He worked conscientiously and diligently on my behalf and for that I will be forever grateful.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I would not recommend this lawyer for anything. They dooped me, lied to me all to my detriment . Later i found another person they did the same thing too and he ended up spending more money to fix their mistakes.
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23 Dec, 2019 by Amanda
Alicia is an absolutely amazing lawyer. She fought tooth and nail when my fiance was killed in a motorcycle accident and I couldnt have been more happy with choosing her. This was almost 3 years ago and we still talk very often and she checks on me and my daughter at least once a week.
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11 Aug, 2021 by Andrew
I reached out to this law firm because I was trying to find out tax advice on a settlement. They had an article on their website about which types of settlements were taxed. I waited for over 2 weeks for them to get back to me and Thomas Roebig sent me a letter stating that they were unable to represent me. I wasn't looking for representation, I was looking for advice that they had posted on their website! I definitely will not ever reach out to them again, much better attorneys out there!
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26 Jan, 2012 by Elise
I employeed Thomas Roebig to handle a car accident lawsuit, and he was wonderful. Everybody in the office was very helpful, and eager to make the process as painless and fast as possible.
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07 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
My wife and son hired attorney Simpons office for a car collision. They did a horrible job in looking up prior records. They didn't take time to figure out other key factors. My son suffered a permanent injury which cost him his career in the military. They hardly received anything from this incident. After settlement the attorney's office disbursed money to people that had nothing to do with this case.
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03 Feb, 2011 by Beth
David did a really great result for me and got me a great settlement. Really nice guy, and his staff was very kind to me.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Alan leventhal
25 Jul, 2023 by M b
Awful! Incompetent, disorganized, uncaring! Wasted weeks of my time! DO NOT RECOMMEND!
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21 May, 2023 by Daphne lewis
08 Jul, 2024 by Dave burke
Amy Moniz and the Crary Buchanan team are the most outstanding, knowledgeable and talented law firm Ive ever had the pleasure of working with. I truly can't say enough good things about Amy, if you need someone to help guide you, look no further, she's a perfect 10
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08 Jul, 2024 by Colin connolly
This law firm is beyond superb!
We had the luck of getting a referral to Linda for me to adopt my son. She made the entire experience easy and seamless. Kept me informed the entire way and truly went above and beyond to make our family whole.
We recently used Nicole to handle our recent home sale that started out as a nightmare but once Nicole LaLiberte came aboard all my stresses went away. She was beyond amazing and went above and beyond to ensure the transaction was legal and protected my assets.
I can not thank them enough!
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08 Jul, 2024 by William kiddy
My experience with Crary Buchanan has been a wonderful and educational endeavor. They were compassionate and communicative throughout our client relationship; they took the time to inform me of my options, as well as explain technical nomenclature and professional jargon in ways I could understand. They worked diligently to achieve the best outcome for my case. Thank you!
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27 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
She is totally pro mom. If you are a father that is trying to do right by your children make sure you don't have her as your judge. She doesn't care about fathers. She doesn't hold moms accountable when they are not doing what they should be doing to keep their children safe. She doesn't hear fathers when they are trying to do what's best for their children. She feels like because moms birth children that the children belong with them even if they are not fit to be moms.
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13 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Magistrate Woods is great. She is professional and controls her courtroom. She listens and makes well reasoned decisions based on the facts presented and applicable law. She knows the law, follows it and always shows respect to the litigants and lawyers who appear before her.
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30 May, 2021 by Anonymous
This Judge doesn't even follow Florida Statutes!
This Judge doesn't even follow Florida Statutes!
This Judge doesn't even follow Florida Statutes!
This Judge doesn't even follow Florida Statutes!
This Judge doesn't even follow Florida Statutes!
This Judge doesn't even follow Florida Statutes!
Remove!
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31 Dec, 2021 by Yegor
I'm immigrant before need green card and my woman at time was a American. He wants lots of money because he thought we are not a true love and only for papers so refuses to help us for reasonable price. We married and many attorney who help us in Miami no problem at good price. Even though we divorce after sometime and now I'm US Citizen Businessman remarried to girl from my country, I never forget this crazy little man Wayne Dapser who try to be in the way of My American Dream. Maybe I say hello to him when I visit the Key West.
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16 Nov, 2014 by Jim
The man has many years of experience and he knows exactly what he's doing. And his secretary is top-notch we could not have found a better attorney to take care of our problems.
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29 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
In initial interview he asks the questions that looks like he is trying to work out your case but what he actually is doing is trying to work out what you can afford to pay him, then he gives you the highest price possible. When asked why other people that were working with him payed only a fraction of this he said that their case was easier. I know people personally and it was so complicated it took them over a year to get everything done. When a lawyer was asked why he thinks my case is complicated he said its not, but....
also initial consultation, supposibly free, isn't. I was charged $100.
at first I thought he is the only immigration lawyer in key west, but he isn't. I found another lawyer and am much happier
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08 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Nussbaum did not communicate with me on a regular basis. At times, decisions were made without consulting me and letters were sent to me with erroneous information. These letters referenced conversations we did not have. In retrospect, I wish I had hired a different attorney.
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27 Jul, 2019 by Gavin
Hahn Loeser...stay away. They may be good for large companies or banks but they are not meant for smaller clients. (<20 employees). I went with them because I was told they were the best.
I finally got a local attorney at a smaller firm and the bills were 1/3 of the price with far better client service. It was not uncommon to go over a week or even two without getting responses - this while I was paying $10,000+ a month for their services
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13 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Kenneth Williams is only good at one thing collecting the money he's known as the man who likes to trick he is never prepared to handle its cases he believes he gets by on the way he dresses and flirts and socially mingles
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18 Jul, 2011 by Chandler
I had to go before Jude Kenneth Williams for a child support issue. I was never notified by any court , Eventually he put out a warrant for my arrest. I was living in Canada and relayed this information to hime and his Judge assistance three times. However they were to busy making their plans on their date for that weekend to establish my communication. THIS IS A TRUE STORY ********
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23 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
I felt the way my divorce was handled was very unfair. I was not able to voice my opinion or speak. I needed someone just to hear my side of it . I feel that we need our professional people just to listen and not feel that they are in a position to do any thing that they please, because of who they are.
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24 May, 2022 by Armiro
Mr. Rotundo, is one of the worst attorneys in Miami Dade County I know.
This law firm handle my case for two years. one day I received a letter telling me they will drop the case . I had a narrow window of 30 days to get a new attorney.
Luckily i did find an attorney to represent me.
The case was continue to my satisfaction.
Word of advise.Keep away from Dean Ford & Rotundo they are one of the
worst firm I know
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23 May, 2017 by Michelle
This atty came to my home, was hired, & when his firm came to realize they couldn't make a quick $ withdrew as counsel. Leaving me with NO representation & NOONE ELSE WOULD TAKE MY CASE.
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08 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I fired Heath as my attorney when he worked at a previous law firm .
At that time he exhibited himself as a typical insurance company attorney with minimal experience and truly NOT interested in his clients behalf.
I was able to retain a far better, much more knowledgeable, experienced Harvard educated attorney which resulted in a very satisfactory resolution to my claim with far more superior results.
His paralegal secretary has been with him for quite sometime. She is average, but pleasant to deal with.
If you have a serious injury or case, consider looking elsewhere! There are several other very good attorneys and or law firms to reconsider within the Jacksonville, Florida area.
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20 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
After interviewing him. He wanted to fight the insurance company. Gave me a great speel. I hired him. Next day. I spoke to the opposing attorney. Since it's basically 10K it's not worth my time and quit. Wasting over a week of time.
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18 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Beware!!! Signed a contract with Mr. Carpenter in 2022 for an accident spoke with him several times he spoke so well of what we could get, several weeks later he told me the other party did not have very good insurance I did 90% of the work sent him all kinds of paperwork that he had asked for and he did nothing with it still waiting on a small amount of money that he has an escrow to be returned to me !!
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30 Dec, 2014 by Gary
Used in case against Disney. Had one mistrial due to lack of responsiveness and/or preparedness. One juror even posted that seemed like they got file two weeks prior. Made numerous promises going into second trial all of which were broken. As a retired NY trial attorney of 23 years, never saw a trial attorney so unprepared.
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06 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Heidi was more concerned about how she was perceived by the opposing counsel than advocating for her client. Despite having outstanding evidence, she was not strategic, she made mistakes in documents and did not follow through on things she said she would.
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01 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Hello, I recently received my medical records on February 28th from the law firm Vastola & Kirwan, P.A. that were looking into my malpractice case. Upon receiving my medical records back, the envelope was not sealed at all and now I'm missing sensitive records which includes my social security number, home address and details of my past surgeries. I called the Law Firm Vastola & Kirwan, P.A. and asked to speak with “Guy” but I was told he was longer with the law firm so then I left a message for someone to call me back. I then called the next day on March 1, and left a second message. Later that morning Mr. Jeff Vastola returned my call. Mr. Jeff Vastola asked what was the issue and I told Mr. Jeff Vastola that my medical records were sent back with the envelope wide open and there were missing sensitive records. Mr. Jeff Vastola said that he wouldn’t know how that would have happened because that was not the way they would return records. I told Mr. Jeff Vastola when I sent them my records to his office I sent them certified with a return receipt because of the importance of the information it contained. Mr. Jeff Vastola asked if there was a cover letter and I told him no. Mr. Jeff Vastola then asked if I wanted copies of all of the records to be sent to me because all records are scanned into his computers and I told him no because I could always ask the previous law firm for the originals which in fact was what I sent Mr. Jeff Vastola law firm in the first place. I then told Mr. Jeff Vastola that my worry was that I have sensitive medical records lost and that I was afraid of someone stealing my identity. Mr. Jeff Vastola, said he couldn’t do anything for me. I told Mr. Jeff Vastola that if I have any issues of someone stealing my information that his law firm would be accountable. Mr. Jeff Vastola then accused me of extortion, I told him no that’s not what I wanted in any shape or form, only that if in the event that my identity was ever stolen that he would be held responsible because he represents his law firm and the careless manner in which my records where sent back. Mr. Jeff Vastola snickered at me and laughed and had no remorse or even show any professionalism. I can’t believe how Mr. Jeff Vastola has treated me. I’ve put my trust with the law firm Vastola & Kirwan, P.A. with my horrible medical ordeal and expected more but unfortunately I was wrong. At the end I was hung up on.
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11 Nov, 2022 by Elizabeth
A Cadillac truck hit me because of an illegal I turn I did. I explained to him I do t what surgery for anything for me to win the case.. he said that he can still win the case for me. I had to keep calling him to get an update and to have the case moving forward because I wouldn’t hear from him for months. If I didn’t call him most of the steps I had to take would’ve never happen. At the end of Case he calls me telling me he didn’t win the case and I’m not getting anything. He full of crap and a este of time!! I would never recommend him!!
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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.
