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06 Feb, 2020 by Fizoires nolan
Mike Nykaza is a very passionate, honest and hard working Attorney. I recommend his services to anyone who prefers to win.
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16 Jul, 2018 by Sharon
I highly recommend Mike! He is established in the community and will represent your case well. What sets him apart is his care and compassion for his clients. He offers personalized service and will work hard for you.
You do not have to worry about being passed on to another attorney. Mike will handle your case from start to finish and is knowledgeable, aggressive and results oriented! Thank you Mr. Nykaza for your hard work. It made all the difference.
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07 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Susan Novosad is a very gifted and seasoned attorney. She represented me following a traumatic incident in 2011 that resulted in serious physical and emotional injuries. The defendant was no lightweight and resisted many attempts to settle the case, resulting in a rare jury trial. Throughout the entire process, my family and I found Susan to be a consummate professional. She was patient, kind, and attentive. From a legal perspective, she was always prepared. We were humbled by how seriously she took the case, and by how much effort she poured into the many pre-trial affairs and courtroom proceedings. I recommend Susan without hesitation.
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17 Apr, 2012 by David
Susan's representation was outstanding in every category. While she consistently provided world class professionalism throughout our case, it was her compassion that exceeded our expectations. We felt she genuinely cared about us as a client and shared in our pain. We are grateful to her for that. We would highly recommend Susan to anyone looking for top tier representation.
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10 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
David represented us for my husbands serious work related injury. Ours was a very difficult case that stretched out over 8 long years with many twists and turns.Even though it took a long time through no fault of his own, he remained very dedicated to our case. He never gave up. With his extensive knowledge of the law and grit, David represented us so well that we received above and beyond what we originally asked for after our case was presented by him in court. Our case is now entered into the law books as law due his efforts. Both he and his staff worked very hard for us. They always answered questions, returned calls promptly and were very patient with us throughout the years. The whole firm could not have given us better service if they tried, we are so thankful for each and every one of them. We never really understood before all that an excellent lawyer goes through and does until we saw David in action on our case. He is truly an honest, compassionate and hard working man. He does not accept cases to make money but to make sure that justice is served. We feel we were both blessed and honored to have Mr. Kupets as our attorney and will forever be grateful to him. If the need arose we would not hesitate to have him represent us again. We highly recommend this very wonderful lawyer!
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08 May, 2010 by Bob
I worked with David for over 6 years and he was very prompt with returning my calls and answering my questions. He kept me informed about progress and process of the case. I felt he represented me the best that anyone could have done.
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31 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Brandon was our attorney for a residential real estate transaction. Brandon has very insightful and and proactive approach every step of the way. Brandon came to us via a referral and we are very thankful and lucky to meet him!
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27 Dec, 2014 by Andrew
I couldn't ask for more from an attorney.Extremely knowledgeable and responsive.
willing to go the extra mile for you.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Sherri
I had a fabulous experience with this law firm although. Broken teeth, damaged cartilage in knee when a car turned right on red hit me. I somersaulted over the car into oncoming traffic landing hard on my knee. Gregg took my case and exceeded my expectations. His two paralegals Lydia and Denell were so kind and competent. They were very responsive and meticulous with my case. He actually CARES about you. I HIGHLY recommend this company. You will not be disappointed.
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28 Feb, 2018 by Kerry o
Gregg Mandell and his team were amazing from the beginning! From the first time speaking with Gregg and his team we felt they worked very hard for our mother and her situation.
Gregg went above and beyond to consider our elderly mother's needs and her comfort level with the legal process. He was very thoughtful to explain things in detail and be kind as our mother was confused and stressed about the legal process.
I would highly recommend Gregg and his team to EVERYONE! He is an excellent attorney that you want on your side.
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30 Apr, 2021 by Bob
I was injured on the job and barely could walk and was offered a very low settlement by a company’s insurance rep. I felt it was unreasonable so I looked in the yellow pages under K because my last name began with a K. I saw John P. Kolb’s name and decided I was just going for a consultation. Extremely nervous I was greeted with a very warm welcome and immediately felt that I was important. After one hour with John, I realized I need this lawyer in my corner. John took the time and explained my case in words I could understand. I Never felt rushed. I signed with John and my life changed. During my 2-year case John kept me updated as my case moved forward. Then after everything was said and done John called me and asked would I be happy with a settlement 10 times what I was offered. Bingo, I said yes and the rest is history. John thanked me for being patient and congratulated me on my settlement. I said sorry, but it was me who should thank you for not giving up and being very professional all the time. John made me feel like family as he did his job. Meeting John P. Kolb and one phone call changed my life in a positive way..
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07 Apr, 2020 by Denise bishop
Outstanding group to work with. They handled my case with nothing but absolute professionalism and the attorney that shower up for my hearing new my case better than I did. I was so relieved after speaking with him the first time. The judge told me I was approved without me even having you wait for a decision.
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14 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr Malevitis is a wonderful Attorney and I would highly recommend him to anyone who wants the best attorney out there. He knows how to fight for your rights. He gets the job done. He is very knowledgeable. His approach and his ability to explain complex issues made me feel at ease. He answered all my questions. He was always available to me . I felt confident because of his high level of expertise and his approach in court and working with other attorneys. His advice was extremely valuable.
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24 Aug, 2012 by Peter
I had John as my lawyer in a hotly contested divorce proceeding which featured the withdrawal of the other side's lawyers during the case and the hiring of new ones midstream. John Malevitis guided the case through to a quite favorable settlement and conclusion for me. I have since hired him for various other business related matters. P.S. I asked John about the negative rating on Avvo received by a former client and I was advised of the client name, so I looked it up on the Court docket and found that in fact John had attended Court on her behalf about 30 plus times and that finally he had to withdraw when she was not cooperating with him and failed to attend Court as required. I don't understand how someone could publish these inaccuracies without first taking the time to look up the Court docket as I did!
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23 Nov, 2015 by Ray
Words alone cannot express my gratitude to the entire Passen Law Group team. They took a very difficult time of my life a guided me to successful resolution.
After being rear-ended in a car accident I began having physical difficulties with speech, headaches, memory, taste and ringing in my ears. While in the Emergency Room it was discovered I had incurred a severe traumatic brain injury called a subdural hematoma.
While recovering after brain surgery, it took me some time to be able talk and communicate clearly again. During that time a lifelong friend encouraged I contact the Passen Law Group. I knew I needed help communicating with third parties legally involved in the aftermath of the car accident. Because I was unable to leave my home during recovery, Mr. Passen willingly came to my home and clearly explained a recommended course of action. I agreed with the approach and consented to retain their services.
It’s over now, but I will never forget the high level of professionalism and expertise exhibited by the Passen Law Group throughout the duration of this legal matter. And I‘d like to express a special thank you to their administrative manager, Kim Sanchez who always kept me informed of status and progress of issues along the way. What a team !!!
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03 Sep, 2015 by Linda
The were very professional, compassionate, and thorough. I felt at ease that they always had our best interests in mind. I would not hesitate to hire them again.
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18 Jul, 2019 by Michele
Colin worked with us on a personal injury case. He was professional, kept us in the loop on how the case was going and ultimately settled so we didn't have to go through a trial. Professional as well as down to earth guy which made things much easier on us to work with him.
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16 Jul, 2019 by Beth
Colin was my lawyer for an accident injury. All of my preconceived notions of an injury attorney were proved wrong by him. He is very professional, trustworthy, communicative, and transparent. Colin responded quickly when I wanted an update or had a question.
I had a better than anticipated outcome from my case settlement. All in all it was an easy process. There was very little anxiety/work on my part because Colin takes care of everything.
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15 Feb, 2015 by Onreps
I have the highest regard for Mr. Goodman. Professional, kind, timely, incredible knowledge in his field specifically personal injury.
His firm, Steinberg, Goodman &Kalish is one of the best firms in Chicago
Bruce Goodman has been named as s "Leading Illinois Attorney" and is rated AV by Martindale-Hubbell. He is ranked as a Top Lawyer in Illinois/Super Lawyer
Top 100 trial lawyers.
I highly recommend Bruce Goodman.
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24 Nov, 2009 by Angel
i knew immediately after my surgery eight years ago that something was wrong, very wrong. i unfortunately was the tip of the iceberg for what now is an understood condition. i fell into a gray area that both doctors and lawyers alike were unfamiliar with. i was bounced around from doctors to specialists and meanwhile i was trying to get a lawyer to listen to me. i kept getting the same response. that it wasn't cut and dry enough. there was no support backing up what my complaints and physical problems were. i kept getting dismissed like i meant nothing. my entire life was flipped upside down. i was at my wit's end and to top it off my case was in the hands of a lawyer who never bothered to educate himself on me, or my condition and was dilly-dallying around with my life. he was unresponsive and incompetent. i kept finding myself having to constantly correct him on the simplest details of my case. i felt lost, alone, helpless and hopeless. i literally sat down in front of my computer and cried and prayed. i then google searched medical malpractice lawyers in chicago, IL and i clicked on a link that listed the names of lawyers. i saw bruce goodman. i stared at his name for a long time. i kept reading it over and over and i thought goodman...good man. i thought that's what i need! a good man to help me! i prayed again and called his office. he talked to me over the phone and set up a time for us to meet. i went in and we went over my case and he has stood by my side from that day on. even when things were bleak and unsure he stayed. he would tell me things were shaky but he still stayed. he didn't abandon me because he'd rather deal with a case that was more clear, more black and white, less difficult to prove, less challenging. he didn't cast me aside like i didn't mean anything. he gave me a chance. to me it meant he thought my strife mattered, that my pain was legitimate and my quality of life was important. reports started coming forth and my condition started getting recognition in the medical field. all the while he has been there fighting for me, educating himself in every aspect of what i have endured and will continue to endure for the rest of my life. i had some insurance issues two surgeries ago and i just couldn't handle any more stress. i was a mess, reduced to tears and dejected. my boyfriend called bruce and he got on the phone and talked me through it. when have you ever heard of such an instance? the fact that even my boyfriend knew he could reach out to bruce speaks volumes. i could go on and on forever on how wonderful of a lawyer and a person he is. my strong feelings for him are endless. he has taken the time to see me for who i am. he listens and more so he hears and he cares. he's honest and fair and explains things to me in great detail and makes sure i understand exactly what is going on every single step of the way. i feel like a family member is representing me now. i know to the core of my being that when i sat in front of my computer and prayed that day that God was listening. God pointed me to the blessing and the gift that is bruce. i can honestly say i don't know where i would be both mentally and physically today if i had not met bruce goodman. he continues to fight for me against any odds and in turn has helped to give me back my dignity, my perseverance and my hope. the difference he has made in my life is priceless. i feel like i can take anything on with him on my side. i gain such strength just from knowing he is there. i don't know how to thank him enough for everything, but i know i will always hold him dear my whole life through; he is a hero in my life.
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03 Dec, 2021 by Sean
Great Service! Communication was great and never had to wait for an answer. I recommend him to anyone that needs legal help.
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22 Nov, 2021 by Robert d. bowen, ed.d.
Mr. Frericks provided top flight legal services for me during my felony charge by the Bureau County States Attorney. His efficiency was great for me. The States Attorney took too long to respond to our many overtures, but Chris was finally able to work out a negotiated agreement that was approved by the judge. I am very pleased with what Chris was able to help me accomplish. His honesty with me was refreshing and appreciated..
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09 Nov, 2016 by Sylvia covington
Attorney Yao O. Dinizulu took our case at a very difficulty time in our life. Our mother had just made her transition and we were lost as to what to do. Attorney Yao O. Dinizulu's office handled our case with dignity and honesty. They were very professional and delivered a win. My family and myself would recommend Attorney Yao O. Dinizulu to everyone looking to be heard! Thanks again, Attorney Yao O. Dinizulu.
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16 Mar, 2016 by Dana
Paul was amazing. Helped me thru a tragic time in my life. He did with grace and professionalism. I highly recommend Paul for any service you may need.
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21 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Greg has handled many cases for my family and friends and is always straight forward with the matter and what we can expect. Very honest and caring.
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05 Mar, 2019 by Jim
Mr. Cuda worked well with opposition lawyer and myself. He arranged a good workmen's comp settlement for all concerned. Nice person to work with. Seemed very fair in his dealings. I would recommend him.
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27 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Tess Perica provided her expertise and skills in helping us recover damages from a concrete contractor who failed to deliver as promised and contracted. Tess recovered the exact amount necessary to remove and replace a faulty concrete job by providing necessary documentation from the concrete finishing materials manufacturer.
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06 May, 2015 by Toby
I highly recommend Terrence Quinn (Terry), Partner at the Phillips Law Offices in Chicago for all personal injury and malpractice matters. I was the unfortunate victim of a car accident where I was rear-ended by a commercial tow truck carrier in 2008. I suffered significant shoulder injuries and required multiple surgeries and rehab. Like most folks, there was not enough medical coverage in my auto insurance policy to cover all the x-rays, scans, surgery, rehab and treatment necessary for me to get healthy again while caring for 2 young children. I needed solid legal representation to gain financial relief and peace-of-mind from the insurance company of the responsible commercial truck driver. Phillips Law Offices were highly recommended by friends in the legal community as very experienced and highly capable of helping me. Terry and the Phillips Law team were outstanding, diligent and unbelievably professional by completely handling all legal matters and negotiations so that I could completely focus on healing through 2 shoulder surgeries and taking care of my young children. Terry prepared me well for the legal process including how to take a deposition and be ready for trial — a daunting and overwhelming for anyone. Terry persistently advocated for me and successfully negotiated a proper settlement on behalf of my family on the eve of trial. He also negotiated down all the debts for outstanding medical bills. Terry is detailed, thorough, respectful, honest, supportive and an amazing advocate for me. I highly recommend Terry and Phillips Law Offices who will fight for you and your family and who truly stand out as very high-integrity, honest, trustworthy, respectful and results-driven in a legal field bereft with less reputable players. You will never regret this choice whatsoever.
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06 Mar, 2011 by James and tiffany
Mr. Weisberg could be accurately described with two words. Class Act. My wife and I were injured while on vacation in Chicago and did not know where to turn. Through the friend of our family came the recommendation for Mr. Weisberg. His response was prompt and he immediately put us at ease with his approach. Having not had to deal with a situation like this before, my wife and I were skeptical to say the least. Josh's assurance that our focus at the time should be on our health and not our legal matters was something that stood out in comparison to the other attorney that we met.
Once we were able to return to good enough health to deal with our legal issue, Josh and the staff at Rapoport Law Offices were there to guide us through the complex steps of dealing with a personal injury lawsuit that would have otherwise encompassed our entire lives. Josh took the time throughout the entire process to educate us and explain to us what was going on each step of the way.
I would not only recommend Joshua Weisberg as a qualified, focussed, intelligent, and compassionate Personal Injury attorney, but I would also now consider him a friend.
If you are looking for an individual that will take the time to understand your unique needs and how the law applies to them, Josh Weisberg would be someone to consider.
Thanks to Josh and everyone at Rapoport Law Offices. We are happy that our path crossed under the circumstance that existed.
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05 Aug, 2015 by Alberto hernandez
Joe Loran is one of the best lawyers out here he is great he treats everybody the same, great attitude always positive great customer service will recommend him 100% best lawyer so far
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16 Jun, 2017 by Dennis
After my initial meeting with Laird I knew that I had chosen the right attorney for my Personal Injury case. He worked hard on my case to get me the maximum settlement possible.
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02 Aug, 2016 by Erica
I am so glad that I chose Bob Perica as my lawyer. He has made this process very smooth and easy for me. He has been informative, professional, kind and understanding. I would highly recommend the Perica Law Firm to anyone looking for a lawyer!!
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22 Mar, 2018 by Black balls
Ms. Attorney White handled my speeding ticket court case which was classified as a felony because it was over 40mph. I currently live in Chicago but according to the state trooper I had to report to Rolling Meadows IL. The time I was suppose to appear in court I was scheduled to be out of town handling work business and Ms Attorney White was able to get my court date push back and received a notice of permission to travel. The judge allowed me to pay $100 to get my license back that day and I received court supervision for a couple of months. Shes a knowledgeable and detailed attorney.
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03 Oct, 2015 by Tom
Mr. Badgley was extremely helpful to me. He always took the time to talk with me when I called to consult about the status of my case. Once even speaking with me while on vacation in Europe. His staff is also great to work with, everyone there genuinely cares. I highly recommend.
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07 Jun, 2023 by Lucille strickland
14 Jul, 2015 by Brent
I shared an office with Jason and saw his day-to-day commitment to understanding and communicating with his clients and getting outstanding results - a dedicated advocate.
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12 Mar, 2014 by Carol
Mr. Thomas Fabiano has represented me in a two personal injury cases in the past 16 years and did a excellent job in representing me. He worked closely with me while preparing the cases, kept me informed at all times, Always answered my phone calls when I would call the office with questions or concerns, treated me with the utmost respect at all times and I couldn't of been happier with everything he did in my two personal injury cases. He spent countless hours on the cases, being very thorough, and the end result was victory in both cases.
Thomas Fabiano has since then, over the years, represented me in other cases and I have always been very satisfied with the outcome from his dedication to his clients. I feel one of the most important things between lawyer and client is communication. Every time I have ever called the office he has always taken my calls. Never am I told that he is busy, or gone, or I will have him call you back. If he is in the office he comes to the phone. I feel that in itself is showing a lot of respect for his clients, and letting them know that he is there to answer any problems or concerns that I might have, and want answers to immediately.
Thomas Fabiano also gets involved on a personal level. He will go out of his way to ask how the family is, how am I doing, and shows interest in you as a person, not just a client. I have had other lawyers way back in the days, but once I found Tom Fabiano, and got to know him, and began the journey of trust, I have never had to look any farther than his law practice.
They are a law firm with several members of the family in law. A highly respected name in many towns.
I have referred several people to Thomas Fabiano over the years, and will continue to do so as they are a law firm that every client deserves to be represented by.
If your looking for Honesty, Integrity, Good Communication, then I would highly recommend Thomas Fabiano.
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28 Oct, 2015 by Brenda
I'm an attorney who knows nothing about personal injury. I'm glad I hired Marc because I was involved in an accident that was not my fault. The driver & I had the same insurer who was a pain to deal with. I was very pleased with Marc's professionalism and the results he achieved for me.
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11 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Dan did a wonderful job representing me in my personal injury case. I had taken a fall at store and broke my ankle. All throughout the process Dan explained everything to me in great detail and phoned me regularly to check on me an to update me on my case. He obtained an excellent settlement for me and in very short order. He is kind, knowledgable, aggressive and really fought for me. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing a personal injury attorney.
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15 Aug, 2017 by Kevin
This law firm happens to be family owned and operated. They took my personal injury case and made every effort to make sure that this case would be signed sealed and delivered. I can and would recommend this firm to anyone needing the best legal representation. This is their craft. I truly thank the entire firm for the justice that I received.
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21 May, 2014 by D.c.
Mr. Morrison changed my opinion of lawyers and the legal system. There are still a few good attorneys out there. He handled a personal injury matter for me. I was always informed about the progress of my case and he answered all my questions. My case was handled in a timely and professional matter with an excellent outcome.
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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.
