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31 Jan, 2022 by Michael fernandez
Thank you Mr Cosmas For All of Your Help for Our Families!
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14 Jun, 2021 by Yesenia rodriguez
11 Dec, 2020 by M s
Absolute worst. Very un-prepared at trials and will not execute due diligence by the looks of many other past clients as well. Beware! As that old saying goes, You get what you pay for.
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12 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
My family (father is a hundred percent disabled combat veteran and mother has serious heart problems) and I have been victimized by the state of Arizona and were trying to sue the individual responsible for taking our lives away. First, he indicated he was only taking certain cases if interested. Then at the end he said he had "other things going on" and was not interested in helping me or my family. Attorney Don was did not ask any relevant questions about the actual facts of the case and was not the least bit interested in learning the truth. Instead he relied on false information in the media which is why we are suing in the first place. Most upsetting from speaking with him is that he honestly could have cared less for what happened to me and my family. Based upon my conversation with him and his demeanor, I would not recommend this attorney.
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12 May, 2020 by Rachel
I would recomend him for advice amd representation. He has a calm and careful no nonsense attitude. His respect for others and the law is sure to illicit favor from a judge and others. Possibly the defendants as well.
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06 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I went for a consultation on an extremely serious police violence case. He was insulting and said it all started over a minor incident and a jury would think it's laughable. It's not what it started over it's what the police did. 80% of police calls are civilian initiated over any number of things. His attitide is crude and demeaning.
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09 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
After researching and speaking with aver 25 attorneys regarding misrepresented disclosures in a real estate case and I found Kyle to be EXTREMELY knowledgeable about every aspect of our case. He is a skilled negotiator and provided constant and informative updates as our case progressed. He always made himself available to answer questions and provide advice. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Kyle and I&G!
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05 Oct, 2016 by Mike n.
We were very pleased with the results that Kyle Israel was able to get for us in compensation for the personal injury that my wife suffered. If it were not for his skill and experience, I know that we would not have been so fortunate. We live in California but since the injury occurred in Arizona we needed an attorney that practiced there.Our local attorney recommended Kyle and we are very thankful that she did. You would think that it would be difficult being in a different state, but he and his staff made it very easy. We were kept up to date as to how the case was progressing and they were quick to answer any questions or concerns that we might have. Kyle is the best man to have on your side if the need arises.
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05 Aug, 2016 by Don
I would like to give a brief recommendation if anyone has a need to look for and hire an attorney.
Professional is the key word and during the deposition i first saw his skills shine through and I was happy he was on my side. He clearly understood the case as he asked pointed questions that seamed to clearly, identify or expose the other sides issue's. He stayed on point and made sure he got the answer he was looking for. When i was asked questions he made sure he objected when it was in question and it showed he was following the case and new the issue's. After this was completed I thanked him no matter which way the case goes because i could see he represented me well and i was pleased to have the best chance to win.
Once our case was heard I again witnessed this same clear questioning to the opposing side and I felt good with the direction the case went. YES a week later we won so Im happy but like I said before I was pleased way before I knew the outcome. Don
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21 Feb, 2025 by Amy potthast
The team at Robinson Law Offices is very knowledgable. They made us feel heard and provided us with the information and resources we needed to proceed with our claims even though we did not proceed with a law suit. We would recommend them for any employment law inquiry or complaint.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Amanda catuna
I am so grateful to Krista and her services. She was able to help me get closure on a really tough period in my life and her knowledge helped me get the result I desired. She responds in a timely manner and doesn’t leave you wondering what is going on with your case. She is knowledgeable and fights for her clients to get the best possible outcome. I hope I don’t need to but will definitely use her again in the future for any employment related needs!
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29 Dec, 2024 by Lindsay clark
Robinson Law was great to work with and sensitive to the needs of their clients. Krista took time to understand the situation and provide nonbiased feedback and followed through on every detail. Definitely a firm to work with that will educate you every step of the way.
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02 Jun, 2020 by Judy abel
Snobs! They don't take cases they have to work at.
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19 Apr, 2019 by K stanisch
The law offices of Ray Slomski were outstanding in helping us get the only kind of justice we could for our daughter, who was severely injured due to medical malpractice. Ray fought hard for our daughter and kept her in mind in every action and word he spoke. Ray, Patti, Deana, Bucky, Adam and the rest of the team treated us with the utmost respect, and they treated our daughter so kindly. The entire team started to feel like family and I know we will always stay in touch with them. They provided us with the peace of mind knowing our daughter will have what she needs as she grows. They genuinely care and will fight for what you deserve, demonstrating patience and perseverance to fight the long fight for the families they represent. They have a passion to help families and it shows every day. I had complete trust and confidence in their abilities and they continually reinforced that trust through their actions. I would recommend this law firm to all who are seeking justice for medical injuries. You will not find a better, more caring or more honest team.
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10 Apr, 2019 by Sean coleman
Everyone in this office made all of us feel like we were family. Kept in constant communication with us about all aspects of our case as well as what was the best course of action. If you want a tough, fair and HONEST attorney who will have your best interest at heart Raymond J. Slomski and his office is the perfect choice. They changed my families life forever!!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Frank g
Our family had the privilege of working with Chelsie Talcott during a challenging circumstance in our life. We cannot speak highly enough of her expertise and dedication as a family law attorney. From our very first meeting, it was clear that we were in the hands of a true professional who genuinely cared about our families situation and well-being.
What sets Ms. Talcott apart is her unique combination of aggressiveness in the courtroom and her compassionate approach to her clients. She is fiercely dedicated to advocating for her clients’ rights, and her assertiveness in negotiations and litigation is truly impressive. I felt confident knowing she was in our family's corner, fighting for the best possible outcome for our family. Her thorough preparation and strategic thinking were evident, and it was clear that she had a deep understanding of family law.
Beyond her courtroom prowess, Ms. Talcott is a nurturing and empathetic individual. She took the time to listen to our concerns and provided guidance that was not only legally sound but also emotionally supportive. In a field where emotions run high, her ability to balance professionalism with genuine care made a world of difference. She was always available to answer our questions, and her responsiveness alleviated much of the stress we were experiencing.
Ms. Talcott's expertise in family law is unparalleled. She navigated complex issues with ease and was able to provide insights that we hadn’t even considered. Her knowledge of the law, combined with her strategic mindset, ensured that we were always one step ahead in the process. I was particularly impressed by her courtroom presence; she commands attention and respect, and it was clear that opposing counsel took her seriously.
If you are looking for a family law attorney who is not only aggressive and skilled in the courtroom but also genuinely cares about her clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Chelsie Talcott. She made a difficult process much more manageable and ultimately helped us achieve a resolution that we were very satisfied with. Thank you, Chelise, for your unwavering support and expertise. You are truly a gem in the legal field! Our family is grateful and appreciative for all you have done for us!
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06 Mar, 2024 by A carlson
Chelsie is a gem!! You will be fooled by her kindness and down to Earth demeanor, but she is like a Valkyrie in the court room, with an impeccable attention to detail.
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26 Sep, 2023 by Natasha scriven
I’m almost sure the only review she has is by someone she knows personally.. She’s a manipulative and deceitful person to foreigners, encouraging them to lie. I’m currently going thru court with the father of my son, and she has not once encouraged her client to do the right thing. She’s only worried about a pay check, to keep her family while she help destroy every one else’s. Do not go to Chelsie unless your ultimate goal is to deprive the other parent of their time
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02 Jun, 2020 by Judy abel
Snobs! They don't take cases they have to work at.
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19 Apr, 2019 by K stanisch
The law offices of Ray Slomski were outstanding in helping us get the only kind of justice we could for our daughter, who was severely injured due to medical malpractice. Ray fought hard for our daughter and kept her in mind in every action and word he spoke. Ray, Patti, Deana, Bucky, Adam and the rest of the team treated us with the utmost respect, and they treated our daughter so kindly. The entire team started to feel like family and I know we will always stay in touch with them. They provided us with the peace of mind knowing our daughter will have what she needs as she grows. They genuinely care and will fight for what you deserve, demonstrating patience and perseverance to fight the long fight for the families they represent. They have a passion to help families and it shows every day. I had complete trust and confidence in their abilities and they continually reinforced that trust through their actions. I would recommend this law firm to all who are seeking justice for medical injuries. You will not find a better, more caring or more honest team.
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10 Apr, 2019 by Sean coleman
Everyone in this office made all of us feel like we were family. Kept in constant communication with us about all aspects of our case as well as what was the best course of action. If you want a tough, fair and HONEST attorney who will have your best interest at heart Raymond J. Slomski and his office is the perfect choice. They changed my families life forever!!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Frank g
Our family had the privilege of working with Chelsie Talcott during a challenging circumstance in our life. We cannot speak highly enough of her expertise and dedication as a family law attorney. From our very first meeting, it was clear that we were in the hands of a true professional who genuinely cared about our families situation and well-being.
What sets Ms. Talcott apart is her unique combination of aggressiveness in the courtroom and her compassionate approach to her clients. She is fiercely dedicated to advocating for her clients’ rights, and her assertiveness in negotiations and litigation is truly impressive. I felt confident knowing she was in our family's corner, fighting for the best possible outcome for our family. Her thorough preparation and strategic thinking were evident, and it was clear that she had a deep understanding of family law.
Beyond her courtroom prowess, Ms. Talcott is a nurturing and empathetic individual. She took the time to listen to our concerns and provided guidance that was not only legally sound but also emotionally supportive. In a field where emotions run high, her ability to balance professionalism with genuine care made a world of difference. She was always available to answer our questions, and her responsiveness alleviated much of the stress we were experiencing.
Ms. Talcott's expertise in family law is unparalleled. She navigated complex issues with ease and was able to provide insights that we hadn’t even considered. Her knowledge of the law, combined with her strategic mindset, ensured that we were always one step ahead in the process. I was particularly impressed by her courtroom presence; she commands attention and respect, and it was clear that opposing counsel took her seriously.
If you are looking for a family law attorney who is not only aggressive and skilled in the courtroom but also genuinely cares about her clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Chelsie Talcott. She made a difficult process much more manageable and ultimately helped us achieve a resolution that we were very satisfied with. Thank you, Chelise, for your unwavering support and expertise. You are truly a gem in the legal field! Our family is grateful and appreciative for all you have done for us!
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06 Mar, 2024 by A carlson
Chelsie is a gem!! You will be fooled by her kindness and down to Earth demeanor, but she is like a Valkyrie in the court room, with an impeccable attention to detail.
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26 Sep, 2023 by Natasha scriven
I’m almost sure the only review she has is by someone she knows personally.. She’s a manipulative and deceitful person to foreigners, encouraging them to lie. I’m currently going thru court with the father of my son, and she has not once encouraged her client to do the right thing. She’s only worried about a pay check, to keep her family while she help destroy every one else’s. Do not go to Chelsie unless your ultimate goal is to deprive the other parent of their time
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23 Oct, 2024 by Frank g
Our family had the privilege of working with Chelsie Talcott during a challenging circumstance in our life. We cannot speak highly enough of her expertise and dedication as a family law attorney. From our very first meeting, it was clear that we were in the hands of a true professional who genuinely cared about our families situation and well-being.
What sets Ms. Talcott apart is her unique combination of aggressiveness in the courtroom and her compassionate approach to her clients. She is fiercely dedicated to advocating for her clients’ rights, and her assertiveness in negotiations and litigation is truly impressive. I felt confident knowing she was in our family's corner, fighting for the best possible outcome for our family. Her thorough preparation and strategic thinking were evident, and it was clear that she had a deep understanding of family law.
Beyond her courtroom prowess, Ms. Talcott is a nurturing and empathetic individual. She took the time to listen to our concerns and provided guidance that was not only legally sound but also emotionally supportive. In a field where emotions run high, her ability to balance professionalism with genuine care made a world of difference. She was always available to answer our questions, and her responsiveness alleviated much of the stress we were experiencing.
Ms. Talcott's expertise in family law is unparalleled. She navigated complex issues with ease and was able to provide insights that we hadn’t even considered. Her knowledge of the law, combined with her strategic mindset, ensured that we were always one step ahead in the process. I was particularly impressed by her courtroom presence; she commands attention and respect, and it was clear that opposing counsel took her seriously.
If you are looking for a family law attorney who is not only aggressive and skilled in the courtroom but also genuinely cares about her clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Chelsie Talcott. She made a difficult process much more manageable and ultimately helped us achieve a resolution that we were very satisfied with. Thank you, Chelise, for your unwavering support and expertise. You are truly a gem in the legal field! Our family is grateful and appreciative for all you have done for us!
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06 Mar, 2024 by A carlson
Chelsie is a gem!! You will be fooled by her kindness and down to Earth demeanor, but she is like a Valkyrie in the court room, with an impeccable attention to detail.
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26 Sep, 2023 by Natasha scriven
I’m almost sure the only review she has is by someone she knows personally.. She’s a manipulative and deceitful person to foreigners, encouraging them to lie. I’m currently going thru court with the father of my son, and she has not once encouraged her client to do the right thing. She’s only worried about a pay check, to keep her family while she help destroy every one else’s. Do not go to Chelsie unless your ultimate goal is to deprive the other parent of their time
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31 May, 2024 by Mermer03
He was extremely unhelpful and uncommunicative. He then dropped my case and did not notify me That I was without a lawyer. Overall experience was negative.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Frank gonzales
Just say No. While an excellent Lawyer, he's Extremely Rude, arrogant and good luck getting your money once it comes in; delay after delay after delay. Good Lawyer, Not a good guy.
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07 Sep, 2021 by Teri siggins
05 Aug, 2023 by Lacey
I initially met Chris to have my name legally changed. I consulted him when my father was killed in a car accident. I hired him and he fought hard for justice. We have multiple suits against various parties including Maricopa County and the software manufacturer for the faulty traffic light. We won all of the suits thanks to Chris's quick thinking, quality research, and legal skills. He was kind, compassionate, tenacious, and hard-working. We fought the suits for 5 years, but it was worth it in the end.
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04 Oct, 2014 by Kesha-nicole
Christopher Post is an excellent attorney and person. His upbeat personality mixed with his professionalism makes it easy to trust in what this man has to say. As my attorney, Christopher Post represented me in a case, and with his valid researched information, he helped to win my case. Christopher made many points that were clear cut and straight to the point. It’s a relief that I was able to work with an attorney who makes me comfortable and who is easy to work with.
Thank you Christopher Post
Keep up the GREAT WORK-
Kesha-Nicole R
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28 Sep, 2014 by Dave
I would highly recommend Chris Post. I was arrested last summer and Chris sat in night court until almost midnight to wait for my arraignment. Out of about 30 others arraigned with me that night, only I was released without bail. Chris was awesome. Without him arguing on my behalf, I would have had to ask friends and family for a loan to bail me out of jail. All of my fellow cellmates that night even asked me for his business card when I was released and they all had to spend the night in jail. I can't thank Chris enough!!!
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22 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
This attorney was court appointed, did not keep me informed of the case nor did he even speak during any of our court proceedings! He would "assure" me of what would happen but when it came down to it he barely said two words to the court in my defense. I have a mental illness (depression) and he was HIGHLY offensive to me. Didn't return phone calls or emails in the beginning and when I finally WAS able to reach him, he said my repeated phone calls were a sign of my mental illness. I stopped calling and was not kept informed of the case at all. Months later, he made the comment that "A Beautiful Mind was a good movie and proves I can be a good parent" How insulting!! I reported this to the State Bar of Arizona and was told he would be contacting me... well I'm still waiting. If you get this lawyer appointed to you, I HIGHLY recommend requesting a new one IN THE BEGINNING! Do not trust that anything will happen in your favor as long as I have. It will not happen.
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08 Mar, 2013 by Jennifer c.
After my second hearing, I was faced with decisions and some tough realizations both during mediation and in the court room. I found Mr. Westervelt to be very quick and responsive to phone calls, emails, and questions I had (prior to, during, and after my court hearings) in my case. Mr. Westervelt was court-appointed to represent me in my case and during the last hearing, it became very clear that I was going to need to hire an attorney if I wanted to have any real chance at a fair trial. Juvenile dependency cases, I have come to find out, are among the most complex and intensive cases within the court system-definitely requiring much more time and effort than a court-appointed attorney is able to give. I hired a new attorney later that month after speaking with around 20 (literally!) I would not recommend anyone to keep with a court-appointed attorney in juvenile dependency cases unless they absolutely have no choice. These attorneys are handling your case, along with a stack of who knows how many other court-appointed client cases, and then their clients paying them out of pocket on top of it. You are dealing with a child's life and future and these attorneys have the power to impact the outcome of that case. To not give these attorneys the time they need to dedicate themselves 100% to that kind of a case should be illegal...It is not fair to the attorney, the client, and most of all, it is unfair to the child involved.
Mr. Westervelt showed to be trustworthy, responding to my emails and calls that day or the next, and seemed very knowledgeable in these types of cases. I was disappointed, however, that I did not receive minute entry copies of our hearings. Some very important issues I had brought to his attention for the past several weeks were not voiced at all during mediation or in the courtroom. During his opening argument at our last hearing, Mr. Westervelt didn't sound thoroughly prepared and was missing important documents he was referencing in his opening argument. If he had requested these from me ahead of time, I would have happily provided them. The information and references he gave were outdated and it was hard to follow his overall argument; he just wasn't ready. Assertiveness of any kind was completely absent and it was very hard to follow him.
However, in the process of trying to hire a private attorney, I did speak to many offices who were familiar with him, one of them even giving his name out as a referral. The problem is, I am not sure if the referral is due to his performance or if his name was being thrown around because he is one of the few attorneys who specialize in these types of cases (there is a very small pool of them and trust me they are hard to find!) Overall and in the short time he represented me, I found Mr. Westervelt to be a very nice man, great at following up, never any issues with trust, and certainly has knowledge in his field of practice.
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07 Jan, 2013 by Jennifer c.
As a current client of Marcus Westervelt, I would like to give my first review as my case is just in its beginning stage. I swore off lawyers about 5 years ago after an experience that emptied my savings and did nothing more than I could have done myself. It was so costly that by the time the trial rolled around, I was the one walking in without a lawyer to represent me. I had to build my case myself and prepare to not only argue my case, but also battle the other party and his lawyer. My experiences only went downhill from there with very little exception. I know nothing about being a lawyer. The one thing I have learned over the years about lawyers is that it is not so much what you know about the law (that is the most clean cut out within the job) but it is about being transparent to who is working the system and how they are getting away with it. In today's society, the most obvious factors (money, politics, character) and the less obvious (unities like the free masons, personal preferences, first impressions) are exactly those which we are caught in as we try to solve what can be a very complicated or a very simple equation, depending on how good of a lawyer you are I would imagine. That question should be simple and Marcus Westervelt is the first lawyer I have ever dealt with that initially laid it out for me. He asked me, what do you believe your case is really about?
Very simple, very clean cut...On my first impression of him, I found myself walking into a conversation where time was extremely limited and the questions on both ends were almost infinite.
Marcus kept me on track in those 15 minutes we had upon our first meeting. He walked into our meeting not only with the ability to communicate the other party's issues but also ask me what mine were. I like to believe that this was his way to answering that one simple question: What is this case really about?
I found myself rambling in my nervousness and overwhelmed in the situation alone. He was assertive to stop me and pull me back on track.
If I tried to tell him" how it was", he would remind me who the lawyer is because I believe that no one knows my case like I do, but then again I am not the lawyer and I need to be reminded of that.
I guess some may feel a bit peeved at a certain level of assertion, but I walked out of that meeting with a smile inside.
If he is this way with his clients, I have no doubts how he handles those on the opposing side.
I have visited his office and had contact with two of his staff members to date. I always get a phone call returned and his full attention on my case and my case only.
If he cannot focus on me, then we schedule a time that works for both of us.
So far, he has not been flaky or careless of my case to any extent.
He does not hesitate for a moment to give his honest opinion even if it is the last thing I want to hear. He just lays it out there.
We have some time to go before my case concludes, but I am very confident that I finally have representation that doesn't make me simply feel like just another form of job security for someone else in this country.
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01 Jun, 2011 by P
I met David via a Doctor we both knew. David as a Person is a very likeable person guy you would mind having a party or BBQ. But his lack of business experience is his flaw. Also understanding your word is your word. He gave me many insurances verbally. But later would change his story or I never said that. I been in business owner for 30 years 3 rd generation business owner, I learn your word is only ting you own. Golden Rule is the max rule of the land. People who don't live by it die.
David took my case I already started handling it had over 50% done. I started on new project had no time. I told I still hand many pains need see another doctor. He did nothing he did nothing from for 10 months. I later told him settle case I have few people BK on me and I need cash. He did nothing he left the firm. I latter end up with new lawyer who has 1 year from passing his bar.
All I got is giant lien on the case and foreclosure on my house.
I hope he learns the Golden Rule one day. I can't believe he was ever soilder.
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FAQs
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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.
