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Martin Wade Hodges, experienced Car Accident, Personal Injury attorney in Lynnwood, WA with 138 reviews
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48,74
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
118 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Dec, 2024 by G w
I cannot thank DUI Heroes enough for their professionalism and dedication in handling my case. From the first consultation, their team made me feel heard and supported during what was an extremely stressful time. They thoroughly explained the process, kept me informed at every step, and worked tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for my situation. Their attention to detail and expertise were evident throughout the case, and their ability to navigate the complexities of the legal system was impressive. They not only reduced my charge but also helped me understand how to move forward positively after this experience. I highly recommend DUI Heroes to anyone in need of a lawyer for a DUI case. Their compassionate approach and exceptional legal knowledge truly set them apart. Thank you for helping me get through this challenging time with confidence and peace of mind.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Sarah hermann
If you’re looking for an exceptional DUI defense team, I strongly recommend that you retain DUI Heros. They not only secured the dismissal of several charges and citations but also ensured I wouldn't set for insure a jail. They even went the extra mile to get all fines and court costs reduced to zero—a result I had only hoped for. My case took time to adjudicate, and during that period, I experienced a severe and unexpected life-threatening illness. DUIHeroes handled my situation with compassion and care, taking every necessary precaution to ensure my condition would not worsen. Their professionalism and empathy reassured me during a challenging time; I truly felt both protected and understood. Additionally, I was wrongfully accused of serious charges unrelated to the DUI—charges that could have severely impacted my career and future. DUIHeroes’ thoroughness and commitment led to the dismissal of these charges as well, allowing me to move forward with my life without fear or stigma. They restored my faith in people who genuinely seek to help others. DUIHeroes truly lived up to their name, and I am deeply grateful for their unwavering support and dedication.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Jesse dorman
I was represented by dui heroes after I was pulled over illegally. After talking on the phone with Chris I knew I was in good hands. They represented me even though I live on the east side of the mountains, they were still able to keep in good communications and handled my case accordingly. I felt at ease with my case because of their professionalism and knowledge of law. The whole process was painless and stress free. Them getting my case dropped was the result of their hard work.
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Steven Eugene Knapp, experienced Car Accident, Personal Injury attorney in Lynnwood, WA with 6 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,19
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
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21 Apr, 2021 by Cheryl
Steve took my personal injury case. I never thought I could, nor would compliment any attorney. However, Steve is an honest, kind, caring and very professional attorney. He promptly answers every call. He is very genuine with his responses. His detailed ability helps to see satisfactory results. Look no further for a personal injury attorney. Steve will not disappoint.
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31 Mar, 2016 by Caren
Steve took on my personal injury case and was successful in getting me, what I feel was, a fair settlement. I also believe he went the extra mile in working with our insurance company and medical providers. Steve made it clear that the most important aspect of my case was my personal health and welfare, everything else was secondary.
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28 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
I’m writing to highly endorse attorney Steve Knapp for you or your loved ones who may be seriously injured or killed by the acts of another person. Steve spent 3 ½ years helping me through a very stressful and difficult process of settling my serious and permanent injury claims with the State Department of Transportation and its contractor after I crashed my motorcycle in a construction zone one night on I-5. I’m very lucky that Steve got involved in my case early on. Steve immediately began gathering evidence to support my claim that the onramp had been left in a negligent condition which caused me to crash that night. Steve kept telling me that the facts of my case were like “spokes in a wheel” and his goal was to build me a wheel full of spokes, which he did do. The State and its contractor denied any responsibility to me for more than three years after my accident. They claimed the accident was entirely my fault or someone else’s fault other than theirs. But Steve was relentless and left no stone unturned in working up my case. He went to the DOT archives and found great records for my case; he investigated the accident scene; and he located and met with several witnesses and got written statements from them in support of my case. I was able to sit in on a few depositions of witnesses, and watching Steve was great. He was very prepared for each one, and he seemed to almost know what each witness would say, even before they said it. He was able to use the witnesses testimony to build lots of spokes in my wheel. Steve used to do defense work and he knows how the defense looks at a case, which I think gives him an edge because he can anticipate where the defense witnesses will attack his clients’ cases and he can prepare for it. Steve had me fully prepared for my own deposition by the defense attorney and for my examination by the defense doctor. Steve finally overwhelmed the DOT and its contractor with evidence that their negligence caused my accident, and we were ultimately able to reach a settlement of very high six figures. Steve is a down to earth kind of guy who is very easy to talk to. He kept in regular contact with me so I always knew what was going on with my case. I’m extremely happy with the work Steve did for me on my case and I give him my highest recommendation to anyone who has been seriously hurt or even killed by someone else’s negligence. J.
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Jeffrey Lawrence Herman, experienced Personal Injury, Wrongful Death attorney in Lynnwood, WA with 18 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,92
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4.6/5
Avvo
4.6
18 Reviews
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07 Jan, 2023 by Travis
At the end of January 2020 I was involved in a car accident which damaged my neck. I started seeking treatment for my neck pain and was not really able to get a result then the pandemic happened and everything closed down. It took me several years of treatment. It was about a 2 which was enough and not back to normal but I still had residual pain. I was still riding my bicycle skiing and doing whatever I could to have fun so I wouldn’t remember pain, and in the course I got injured again on my lower leg and elbow. This case was complicated enough on his own with just the COVID-19 restrictions, but adding additional injuries to my lower extremities, made it really complicated. Jeff was recommended to me by a family member. I hired Jeff immediately at the beginning of the case and I could definitely say that Jeff was the best decision. There were so many things which went wrong with this case the law firm was opposing us. Jeff’s brother worked at the firm then the apposing attorney in case died after depositions. Finally, after three years, I was able to get relief from the court. Only because I had Jeff’s help without Jeff‘s help I could not have got the resolution with my case at all. I recommend Jeff very highly.
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25 Apr, 2016 by Deborah
Jeffrey Herman represented us and it could not have gone better. He knows how the navigate the system, he is seasoned, articulate, smart, and conscientious. He believes in what he does and he will fight for you. We highly recommend him.
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11 Sep, 2014 by Glenn
I am a practicing attorney who went to law school with Jeff. When I was seriously injured in accident, I knew I didn't want to represent myself even though I handle asbestos injury claims. (A lawyer who represents himself has a fool for a client.) I called Jeff and I am glad I did. He's the best personal injury lawyer I know (not including me!) Absolutely dogged in pursuing your claim.
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Eric Louis Freise, experienced Car Accident, Personal Injury attorney in Lynnwood, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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8,00
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0.0/5
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Harry Bill Platis, experienced Car Accident, Medical Malpractice attorney in Lynnwood, WA with 1 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
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1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
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15 Sep, 2010 by Steve
THis lawyer had not even the most basic idea of what was going on. He has no witnesses and shold not practice any more in my opinion. Thank God for me he was the plantiff's lawyer. I was dismisssed in 6 mnutes. This also taught me a valuable less. There is a hudge difference a goo and bad attourney. I have worked with many attourneys in many fields and this guy was simply the worst,
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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