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19 Sep, 2024 by Alliesmutthut petgrooming
I was first referred to Joel by my sister who had gotten in a bad accident a year before mine. I called him, set a meeting, and met at his old louisville office. (Its a stunning building.) He's a laid back guy, has a good sense of humor, and is very professional. He's not a slip-and-fall-my-neck-suddently-hurts lawyer. He's legitimate, not a lazy or self serving lawyer. He works to get you healed first, and paid second. If another car ever wipes me off the road again, I'll be calling Joel.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Cece wright
Joel Franklin is definitely the lawyer you want to go to for your injuries. He’s very respectful, mindful of any situation you’re in and is just down right the best. He communicated with me through out the whole entire case and got it handled as fast as he could with no issues. I am very grateful for him working my case and I definitely recommend him to any one in need of an injury lawyer. Thank you Mr. Franklin for all of your support and help.!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Kenny shanks
19 Sep, 2024 by Alliesmutthut petgrooming
I was first referred to Joel by my sister who had gotten in a bad accident a year before mine. I called him, set a meeting, and met at his old louisville office. (Its a stunning building.) He's a laid back guy, has a good sense of humor, and is very professional. He's not a slip-and-fall-my-neck-suddently-hurts lawyer. He's legitimate, not a lazy or self serving lawyer. He works to get you healed first, and paid second. If another car ever wipes me off the road again, I'll be calling Joel.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Cece wright
Joel Franklin is definitely the lawyer you want to go to for your injuries. He’s very respectful, mindful of any situation you’re in and is just down right the best. He communicated with me through out the whole entire case and got it handled as fast as he could with no issues. I am very grateful for him working my case and I definitely recommend him to any one in need of an injury lawyer. Thank you Mr. Franklin for all of your support and help.!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Kenny shanks
17 Feb, 2024 by Keith lauersdorf
04 Sep, 2023 by Will shanklin
04 Jan, 2023 by Barbara warman
Mr. Howland and his staff were smart, supportive and understanding while providing legal advice and direction. His knowledge and compassionate assistance was significant to me and my family in a crisis.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Devine “cutie” devaughn
Where do I even start?!? This review, while long overdue but much deserved; I do not have enough words to convey my true gratitude and respect for SHEILA HIESTAND and her team!!!
When I 1st met Sheila..several cases and years ago (11 to be exact)...I could literally see and feel her true concern for my family, situation and for me...so much much so that I have NEVER EVER felt like "Just Another Case". Hence the reason why I've hired her several times and refer her often.
Sheila's altruistic heart, genuine empathy and unconditional nurturing energy has ALWAYS made ME feel comfortable, respected, included and welcomed at her law firm.
Sheila, while being an Awe-mazing Attorney, has also been a motivator, educator, therapist, surrogate😉, realist and mostly a FRIEND!!💜
Straight forward, NO smoke and mirrors, wrapped up with humility, morals, confidence and consistency, is what you WILL get when you TEAM UP with Sheila Hiestand! She and her team ACTUALLY listens, Returns calls/texts/inquiries all in a timely manner!
While this review still cannot fully project the admiration I have for this wonderful woman and all she has done for my family... I can't help but remember her radio ad that drew me to her..."BECAUSE NO ONE EVER WINS AN ARGUMENT WITH A WOMAN!" 💫🥰
Signed...a very grateful and satisfied client.
#PartingIsSuchSorrow💜💐💜
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27 Aug, 2024 by Jeanie steltenpohl
Thank you Sheila for everything you did for me. Going through an experience with someone hitting you at full speed you helped so much! You took control of everything and helped me so much! I’m truly grateful for everything you did to help me! Job well done
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26 Aug, 2024 by Layla budeiri
Sheila was so helpful throughout the whole process. You can truly tell that she is passionate about her job and clients! So glad that I chose her to represent me!
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19 Oct, 2019 by Martin
We asked Tad to represent us in litigation against a major corporation regarding a product safety issue. We were very impressed with his professionalism, but also the fact that he treated us not just as a client, but as a friend. He provided us valuable advice along each step of the process with excellent judgment. He also showed great patience and helped us through a process that was completely foreign to us. We were eventually able to resolve the dispute with a settlement that we thought was very fair and to our satisfaction. We would not hesitate to recommend Tad Thomas to anyone in need of legal representation.
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14 May, 2016 by Matthew
Provided great help with my case, easy to contact and communicate with. Was up front and honest with my options and gave realistic expectations. I was very happy with how my needs were handled.
Many years later he still made himself available after hours for legal counseling and advice with quality referrals at no cost.
Great lawyer! Highly recommended!
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25 Nov, 2014 by Tim
This was my first time being involved in a personal legal action. Mr. Thomas took the time to explain the process to me in detail and continued to do so throughout. The communication throughout was excellent and I was kept well informed of what was happening and what to expect. I was extremely impressed with his ability to maximize my claim while retaining the highest level of integrity and professionalism. I have no reservation recommending his services to my family, friends and coworkers. I would definitely use him again if necessary.
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19 Jan, 2016 by Ania
Del abogado Christopher Morris puedo expresar que siempre que he requerido sus servicios, he obtenido el mejor de los resultados sin importar cuán peculiar y complejo sea el caso en cuestión.
El ha asistido los temas legales de mi familia por los últimos 12 años y todos podemos dar fe de su profesionalismo y cautela. He recomendado incluso sus servicios a amigos y conocidos, y en cada uno de los escenarios la resolución fue satisfactoria, destacándose la responsabilidad, discreción y eficacia en su trabajo. Ademas es muy importante que domina el idioma Español tan bien como el idioma Ingles.
Ania Suarez
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19 Jan, 2016 by Linda
My family had an emergency one weekend, we call Chris Morris. He responded quickly and took care of your problem immediately. He was professional, courteous, and understood what needed to be done to help us out. He walked through what he could do and not do for us. Mr. Morris had to work with other attorneys from other states to get a good result. I would not hesitate to recommend Mr. Morris or his firm for any case involving a lawsuit or a serious injury. He knows what he is doing.
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19 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Chris gave me sound legal advice and made the whole legal process following my accident extremely positive for me!! I would definitley use his legal services in the future!
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17 Aug, 2019 by Miren
Nathan Williams name was given to me after I was in a
Motor Vehicle Accident. He was not only a pleasure to talk and work with; he is a very bright individual who worked diligently.
I tried to navagate paying medical bills and dealing with my car
insurance company by myself at first. I learned that you don't let the insurance company use your PIP money/coverage without talking to an attorney first! Nathan was able to guide me through the process and he 'forged on' to recover funds for me.
Also, he kept me in the loop as far as progress we were making
along the way.
I feel he was readily available, and, explained to me, our approach to the case.
he is my TOP recommendation for anyone needing a Personal Injury Attorney.
Dr. Miren
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13 Feb, 2017 by Hazel
Nathan worked very quickly and effectively on the case. He was always nice and answered any questions. I would highly recommend him to anyone!
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02 Sep, 2015 by Rachel
Nathan and his staff are honest, professional, compassionate, caring. After iI was hit by an uninsureddriver Nathan worked for me for months and got me the very best possible outcome for the situation! If I ever have any legal beads in the future he will be my first call!! Cannot say enough positive things about Nathan!
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22 Jun, 2020 by Derquisha
Nader was The best choice I made when I started my process. He was knowledgeable, Reliable, Good at explaining, Professional at all times, Aggressive and Determined. Yes he Won my Case. He will be the only lawyer I call when or if i have legal issues that he specifies in.
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08 Nov, 2019 by Sarah
Nader Shunnarah was a beacon of hope to a good friend at a time when our options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed nigh on impossible. Not only was he able to get us a large lump sum of money from the settlement in an expedited manner but his professional and empathetic demeanor offered emotional succor to myself and those I care about most. Nader has decades of institutional knowledge, experience and good rapport with judges, and he is easy to reach and quick to respond to clients by text and phone. Oftentimes he can get ahold of your lawyer quicker than you can! We are eternally grateful for his service and we recommend Nader Shunnarah without reservation. Thank you again
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31 Jul, 2019 by Fred
With several hundreds of attorneys in Louisville, my choice was Nader Shunnarah . He is an honest, hard-working professional, who keeps his client's best interests in the fore at all times.
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27 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I consulted Mr. Slechter when I had a concern about elder abuse of a close relative. He was responsive to find time to meet with me.
He was patient when listening to the facts and he provided excellent advice and reassurance. I really appreciated his wise counsel and kind demeanor.
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27 Apr, 2021 by Stephanie
Mat is an expert in his field, and is very professional and wonderful overall! I hired him for a very sensitive personal injury case for my child. He saw the case all the way through various complicated legal twists, and ultimately helped us to successfully win the case. I would absolutely hire him again and highly recommend him.
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25 Apr, 2018 by Jeremy
Mat has served as legal counsel for our church for a number of years. He possesses a thorough knowledge of the law yet is able to communicate complex matters in understandable terms. He is a man of integrity and has a very strong sense of justice, willing to fight for what is right, always with his client’s best interest in mind. Mat is a great listener and very empathetic. I recommend Mat without reservation for anyone seeking legal representation.
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14 Sep, 2016 by Betty
He handled my case in a very professional and timely manner. He explained the process and kept me well informed. Definitely would recommend him to friends and family.
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08 Sep, 2016 by Donna
I consulted with Mr. McElhone about a small injury case that was, fortunately, not taken to court. He gave me excellent advice on how to proceed in settling things quickly and to my satisfaction.
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05 Sep, 2016 by Bill
Pat was fair, hard working, and determined in helping me with my case. In my opinion, he is a star. If you need someone who will not stop and will be there for you, Pat is the man. I recommend him highly.
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10 Sep, 2023 by Brumfield catering
Melinda has always been an amazing attorney! I highly recommend her. You won't regret having her representation.
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30 Jun, 2020 by Larry lewis
Great Experience with Melinda.
Very Reasonable Pricing.
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06 Aug, 2019 by A ma
11 Jun, 2022 by Connor
Brett was amazing to work with from start to finish. He was able to use his expertise in the field of law as well as his great personal skills to not only handle my case and get a phenomenal result, but also handle the delicacy of my personal injury on a sincere, genuine level. Thank you Brett and team!
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30 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Attorney Brett Oppenheimer did great job representing me in a car accident recovery. I would recommend this Attorney to anyone without any hesitations
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15 May, 2018 by Jan
Brett Oppenheimer did a brilliant job settling my daughter's injury case. He kept us well informed, made sure bills were paid and was able to help my daughter get a more than fair settlement. I would recommend Brett highly to anyone who values an attorney/client relationship and wants to make sure their loved one is taken care of in a timely and fair manner. I hope I never have to need an attorney for such an injury again, but I am not afraid if I do because I know exactly who I will call... Brett Oppenheimer!
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25 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Aaron Murphy handled a personal injury case for our son, who was injured. I'm a lawyer, and I knew Mr. Murphy personally and by his strong legal reputation. He was attentive, always knowledgeable about the case, and fought hard for us. We are extremely happy with Aaron and highly recommend him for any personal injury case. Aaron Murphy is the best of the best, especially for serious injury cases.
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26 Jun, 2015 by Ann
I was involved in an automobile accident in December of 2013. While sitting at a stop light on my way to work, I was hit from behind and I was left with a debilitating neck injury and mounting medical bills. The idea of retaining counsel was new to me, as I had never been involved in an accident of this nature, and I was completely unaware of how the insurance company (the responsible party's insurance company) would make every attempt they could to not compensate me fairly for my injuries AND even go so far as to try to hold me responsible for the actions of the driver at fault. It was all just very overwhelming and I am so grateful I made the call to Aaron and his team. From the moment I spoke to Aaron, I knew I was in good hands. I no longer had to worry about dealing with the insurance company and all of the stress that went along with it. I was able to go on about my normal routine of working and living, knowing that Aaron and his team would take good care of me. I am so pleased to say that Aaron was able to settle my case and obtain the maximum settlement amount allowed. I am so grateful to Aaron and his team and words truly cannot express how happy I am to know that justice was served. The entire process was smooth and easy for me and I just cannot say thank you enough.
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13 Aug, 2013 by Stan
Our family hired Bill McMurry to represent my daughter when she was involved in a serious accident. There are very few lawyers that possess the skills and experience that Bill has. That became quickly apparent after conducting some basic research when we started interviewing lawyers to handle her case. We found that there are scores of lawyers that handle accident cases, but very few have extensive courtroom and trial experience. We felt very comfortable with his competency early on. But an important factor we didn't know until he started to work was how much he truly cares about his clients. Our cause was his passion. He kept us fully informed as the case progressed and we were reassured by his determination and negotiating savvy. We are pleased with our decision to hire Bill McMurry, and wholeheartedly recommend him to others.
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21 Jul, 2013 by Joe
I will tell you from experience if you find yourself in a life altering situation regarding a legal environment you must hire William McMurrayI have been in business for 45 years I have never been so well represented as I was with William.
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13 Mar, 2018 by Whitney
Jon was great to work with. Jon was so understanding, I really felt like he listened. I am so thankful Jon was recommended to me! He answered all my questions, updated me regularly and always retuned my call promptly. I was concerned that having to go through this process would be stressful and time consuming but it wasn't. Jon made it simple and stress free for me which I greatly appreciated. I highly recommend working with Aguiar Injury Lawyers.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Corey lucas
Rob, Eric, Angel and everyone else were a pleasure to work with and exceeded every expectation while handling my case. Highly recommend!
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07 Aug, 2024 by Suzie turnbull
Kaitlin was a wonderful attorney . She talked to me and not at me. Not once did she make me feel intimidated. She explained everything the good and the bad in terms I understood. I would highly recommend this firm
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07 Aug, 2024 by Amber nation
If you are needing a good lawyer come here. Everyone has treated me with respect, compassion for my situation and always got back to me in a timely manner. They are definitely doing a great job. I recommend all of my friends and family to do here. 10/10 experience. You all are top notch ! I worked a lot with Rob Astorino and Eric Eberwine ! They are awesome. Everyone in this office is awesome
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06 Sep, 2024 by Corey lucas
Rob, Eric, Angel and everyone else were a pleasure to work with and exceeded every expectation while handling my case. Highly recommend!
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07 Aug, 2024 by Suzie turnbull
Kaitlin was a wonderful attorney . She talked to me and not at me. Not once did she make me feel intimidated. She explained everything the good and the bad in terms I understood. I would highly recommend this firm
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07 Aug, 2024 by Amber nation
If you are needing a good lawyer come here. Everyone has treated me with respect, compassion for my situation and always got back to me in a timely manner. They are definitely doing a great job. I recommend all of my friends and family to do here. 10/10 experience. You all are top notch ! I worked a lot with Rob Astorino and Eric Eberwine ! They are awesome. Everyone in this office is awesome
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29 Jul, 2024 by Angela barker
We recently settled a case for our father. Hans, Jami and Scarlette were very friendly, they kept us updated, and always answered any questions without making us feel inferior. They worked as a team to ensure that your needs are met. The office is nice and clean, but they worked to make sure that most of our meetings were closer to us or video conference. I would recommend Poppe Law Firm for your legal services. You won't be disappointed.
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10 Mar, 2024 by Neal weissman
This is not the law firm that that one sees on billboards or obnoxious tv commercials. I needed help, and Taylor Richard relieved me of the stress generated by an insurance claim. Taylor was always available to answer questions and kept me informed of progress. Poppe Law Firm took care of me.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Jeff smith
13 Oct, 2023 by Tickle masters
22 Jun, 2022 by Adelaide bradshaw
Brian Abell is a very knowledgeable and hard working attorney.
Brian Abell is someone that can accomplish many thing others cannot.
On top of his outstanding work ethic, he is a great person and really will make any legal journey you have a better experience with his one of a kind personality.
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22 Jun, 2022 by Odell bryant
Mr. Abell is one of the finest Attorneys, that I have had the privilege of working for me, and a mighty fine gentleman too !!
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09 May, 2024 by Becca waits
Jimmy at Kaufman & Stigger was incredibly helpful in settling my case after my car wreck. Jimmy, Tina, and the rest of the team were in constant communication with me during the process and were kind and supportive the whole way through. I am so grateful for their help! Thank you!
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09 May, 2024 by Jeanclaude pierre
The Best in Town hands down
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08 May, 2024 by Antonio whiting
I would highly recommend Kaufman and Stigger to anyone who has been in an accident and looking for someone to represent them. They kept me informed from the beginning to the end. A very special thanks to Tara and Jimmy for all of the help throughout the process.
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09 May, 2024 by Becca waits
Jimmy at Kaufman & Stigger was incredibly helpful in settling my case after my car wreck. Jimmy, Tina, and the rest of the team were in constant communication with me during the process and were kind and supportive the whole way through. I am so grateful for their help! Thank you!
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09 May, 2024 by Jeanclaude pierre
The Best in Town hands down
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08 May, 2024 by Antonio whiting
I would highly recommend Kaufman and Stigger to anyone who has been in an accident and looking for someone to represent them. They kept me informed from the beginning to the end. A very special thanks to Tara and Jimmy for all of the help throughout the process.
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09 May, 2024 by Becca waits
Jimmy at Kaufman & Stigger was incredibly helpful in settling my case after my car wreck. Jimmy, Tina, and the rest of the team were in constant communication with me during the process and were kind and supportive the whole way through. I am so grateful for their help! Thank you!
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09 May, 2024 by Jeanclaude pierre
The Best in Town hands down
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08 May, 2024 by Antonio whiting
I would highly recommend Kaufman and Stigger to anyone who has been in an accident and looking for someone to represent them. They kept me informed from the beginning to the end. A very special thanks to Tara and Jimmy for all of the help throughout the process.
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09 May, 2024 by Becca waits
Jimmy at Kaufman & Stigger was incredibly helpful in settling my case after my car wreck. Jimmy, Tina, and the rest of the team were in constant communication with me during the process and were kind and supportive the whole way through. I am so grateful for their help! Thank you!
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09 May, 2024 by Jeanclaude pierre
The Best in Town hands down
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08 May, 2024 by Antonio whiting
I would highly recommend Kaufman and Stigger to anyone who has been in an accident and looking for someone to represent them. They kept me informed from the beginning to the end. A very special thanks to Tara and Jimmy for all of the help throughout the process.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Lazaro pegudo
Super agradecido
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09 Sep, 2024 by Tony smith
My experience was very pleasant with Justice Lawfirm. Mr. Justice and Yamile was very informative, and communicated very well every step of the way and stayed in tune with me about my injuries and referred me to the right ppl to help with coping with my injuries.
Not only that but was very effective on their approach with the insurance companies.
I would def recommend them if you’re seeking the right approach and Justice for your personal injuries.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Dita mdz
21 Aug, 2024 by Chandler wooton
Mr. Burns was able to provide expert legal counsel while being very responsive to all questions that I had.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Gabby reinstatler
After my car wreck, I called Jim, and we met up the next day. I had no clue how to go about the medical bills and dealing with insurance companies. He helped me through all of it and took charge of everything. He explained everything very well so I knew what he was doing. He also regularly communicated with me to make sure I was updated throughout the months long process. I would definitely recommend him to anybody!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Brian
Mike took the time to explain everything with my case. Court can be stressful and unpredictable and he assured me of the outcome he expected. Communication before and after the case was timely. I wouldn’t hesitate to use Mr. Burns again.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Steven wright
Great experience. I would recommend them to anyone. Very pleased.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Sonia clark
19 Oct, 2023 by Janet metcalf
I will referral everybody to Schafer and law they work hard for you they do the work their self after they get the information from you they let you know that they work for you you’re not working for them. Every time I use them I came out on top they get you what you deserve and they will not stop until they think it’s a fair case. They are awesome they are friendly and easy to talk to. I would not use no one else. Thanks so much.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Tammy ross
Seth is not only an excellent attorney, he is kind and compassionate . He did a wonderful job handling the case for our mom. Admittedly, I can be a handful to work with when emotions are high. Seth never gave up on me. I highly recommend and am most grateful.
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22 Dec, 2023 by Raul pinon
My Mother whom is very dear to me passed at the nursing home and so many unanswered questions on the circumstances of her death?
I needed Answers ! So I being from Indiana searched the internet.late that nite I was contacted by Seth Gray and felt confident he was the right man , which did-not disappoint me , kept me in formed! I highly recommend him for his personable manner and his tenacity
and a gentleman !
Raul Ben Pinon
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02 Nov, 2023 by Abby pennington
Seth Gray did an exceptional job as our families attorney on behalf of our Mother to win her case. His professionalism and knowledge base to guide us along the legal process with ease was outstanding. We are so blessed that we were referred to him. We would highly recommend him for your legality needs. 5 star ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ all the way!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Jasmine hall
Mr. Randy is the definition of working for YOU. He will get the job done no matter how big or small. He always made me feel like a priority. In 2013 I was hit by a drunk driver and paralyzed for 5months during that time he was always a call away making things a lot smoother and stress free for my family as I healed. We have a long standing relationship, even now I still call for family and friend because he absolutely amazing at what he does and also genuinely willing to make sure you receive everything you’re owed!
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01 Aug, 2024 by Susan elder
I had a wonderful experience with John Spalding and his staff were very professional and supportive.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Carma houp
This firm was awesome! We won 😁
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09 May, 2024 by Becca waits
Jimmy at Kaufman & Stigger was incredibly helpful in settling my case after my car wreck. Jimmy, Tina, and the rest of the team were in constant communication with me during the process and were kind and supportive the whole way through. I am so grateful for their help! Thank you!
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09 May, 2024 by Jeanclaude pierre
The Best in Town hands down
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08 May, 2024 by Antonio whiting
I would highly recommend Kaufman and Stigger to anyone who has been in an accident and looking for someone to represent them. They kept me informed from the beginning to the end. A very special thanks to Tara and Jimmy for all of the help throughout the process.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Leo vowels
16 May, 2024 by Carl la corte
I highly recommend Jason Pride and his team. They always kept me up date on my case,and got me what deserved at the end.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Stephanie perkins
Holly and Walter have been wonderful to work with. They have checked on me, and kept me updated on everything. I would definitely recommend Isaacs & Isaacs. I've had a great experience.
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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.
