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03 Jun, 2024 by Ray metzger
I met Matthew Kikta at Julian Grey Associates in 2016 when he put together an Asset Protection Trust and associated documents (POA, Last Will & Testament, etc.) for my elderly parents. Matthew is very knowledgeable and professional. When my parents passed in 2022, he helped me by submitting the Inheritance Tax return to the state. Matthew always responded quickly to any emails I sent to him (questions I had regarding how to handle things after my parents passed). I strongly recommend Matthew to handle any needs associated with Elder Law.
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14 May, 2024 by Nathan kopsack
He's THE best at what he does.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Reynolds whatley
Julian Gray is the best Elder Law/Guardianship/Estate Planning attorney I have had the privilege to work with. He demands precise work and pays attention to the details. I will be using Julian Gray Associates exclusively going forward.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Parthenia mcintosh
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27 Sep, 2023 by John marino
Susan Henry helped me navigate. Through the complicated pennsylvania work injury laws. I would definitely recommend her.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Blood nation
Andrew helped me with my case best lawyer there is
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27 May, 2015 by Nick
Matt helped us get a valuable asset that belonged to my family from someone who claimed that he purchased it. When he had the defendant in the stand not only did Matt expose him for the fraud he was but there was no doubt in anyone's mind especially the judge's that the defendant was less than honest.
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04 Apr, 2015 by Brad
Matt comes highly recommended. He is an extremely knowledgable and experienced litigator that instills the utmost confidence in his clients that their case is in good hands.
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28 Mar, 2015 by Ronda
I was working with another lawyer for over 4 yrs with no results and it wasn't till Mr. Logue joined with him that anything got done. Mr. Logue explains things so that you can understand. He is very good at what he does and I would recommend him to anyone! I am more than pleased with my results!
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19 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Bernie treated us with the utmost respect and handled our case as if we were his family. He got us what was fair and was able to resolve the matter in a timely manner. He was always friendly and able to answer any and all questions we had.
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27 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Bernard did a outstanding job for me. Always returned phone calls and was easy to talk to.
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13 Aug, 2007 by Anonymous
He was very response and knowledgable.
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05 Mar, 2011 by John
Mark was not only professional and a very good lawyer, he was very kind and compassionate. I now consider him a friend. He always answered my calls and kept me very informed about my case. I did not have to worry about anything - he took care of it. I would recommend Mark to anyone who has been injured.
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10 Aug, 2023 by Celene
We could not have picked a better Atty to represent us! Atty Talarico went above and beyond with our very difficult case. Between his entire amazing staff, and especially his legal secretary, Karen who was exceptionally outstanding! We highly recommend Atty Talarico and his entire staff to help you with your case.
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06 May, 2018 by Anonymous
The case is still ongoing, howver, my position has been optimized as a result of the advise Mark gave me, which I have followed to the best of my ability. He has really gone the extra mile for me, and as a result of his superlative legal and negotiating acumen, I am much more optimistic that justice will prevail. Not only is he knowledabe and highly skill in his field of the law and in negotiaiton strategy, but he is also cosncientious, reliable, and trustworthy. You never have to worry about whether he is doing his best, and his best is outstanding. I cannot recommend Mark highly enough.
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26 May, 2022 by Char
Very eager. Withstood abuse from opposing counsel with aplomb. He was the front man for a strong team of lawyers.
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24 Jun, 2012 by Anonymous
he handled my boys criminal defense matter - dui related. he got his probation reduced, kept me informed., returned phone calls , and is very trustworthy i recommend him. not only that, he acted as a caring friend as well as lawyer... very compassionate and caring as well...
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04 Sep, 2024 by Melissa gromek
John and his team were great! A tractor tailer hit and totaled my vehicle. I was lucky I wasn't seriously injured. John fought for me to get the settlement I deserved for my pain and suffering. I highly recommend him if you have a claim.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Sherry jacobs
I highly recommend Johnathan Stewart and his team for your legal issues! They have been a tremendous success in getting the best out of my case. The staff is very friendly and professional, but I have to say that Mary Imperator was a great support for me and explained everything to me so that I could understand it; She's been a dream to work with. 😊
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28 Aug, 2024 by Phillip pearson
Chris Thomas is a true blessing in every sense of the world. He was there in my time of need and followed through on everything I he advised me on. Very happy with the decision I made going with his counsel. Could not be more happy ! Thank you Chris, Truly !!!!!
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06 Jul, 2024 by Joshua reynolds
I worked with Goldsmith & Ogrodowski, LLC. for a few years. Even after a few years, I had to go check and make sure I had the name of their Law Firm correct. I know them by their first names, Fred, Rich and Heather. My 5 year nightmare started while working on a towboat as a deckhand, I was severely injured. After surgery and about 6 months, I tried going back to work. I didn't like where things were headed. I just wasn't able to do the same work as before. I still had so many issues. At the time, I had never had to call an attorney. I didn't know which way to go. It took a lot of time and thought before I finally made that decision. I now know that it was the right decision. My case was very complicated and took many years. Fred was my attorney, He worked tirelessly on my case. It felt as if I was his only client. It also felt like I was a part of his family. They even treated my fiancée and kids like family. I've had Fred call me at 8-9 p.m. and he was still working on my case. I could call or text any time with questions or concerns and he always responded quickly. It was never an issue. The amount of experience in this firm is amazing. Fred and Rich are the best at what they do. Very knowledgeable. This injury changed my life, forever. Fred understood that. I had hundreds of doctors appointments, a couple thousands pages of medical records. Fred knew every single detail. He was able to accurately answer any question asked over a long period of time and a period of time where things changed. You are not a number here, Fred truly cares. He takes your case and your future afterwards very serious. If you find yourself in a position needing an attorney, call, ask questions, do your due diligence, you won’t be disappointed. You will get what you deserve. The only thing I wish I could change is…..I wish I would have called G&O sooner. Thank you Fred, Rich and Heather. Thanks for everything you guys have done. I’ve just never met anyone that truly cares as much as you guys do. Thank you!!!
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21 Jan, 2024 by John pushak
Most amazing people and dedication to their clients! Highly recommend to anyone in the marine industry.
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03 Jan, 2023 by Wes mahaffee
Fred and co. helped my mother first, then my brother and I as co-executors, hold a large company responsible for damages to our family-built riverside property. Fred extended absolute professionalism in all endeavors relating to our situation. He was attentive, prompt and most of all, completely competent in every action executed. On a personal note, Fred made to hour+ trip to pay his respects at my mom's funeral. For this I'm eternally grateful. Highly recommended.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Eddie jay
They really work and you get real results
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18 Jun, 2024 by Terry meadows
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12 Jun, 2024 by Luis rodriguez
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24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Xinyan “shannon” ye
Attorney Phil DiLucente was absolutely amazing to work with. He was not only knowledgeable and professional, but also genuinely caring and compassionate. Phil went above and beyond to help our family during a difficult time, and we are so grateful for his guidance and support.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Karen consentino
I have been in an extremely difficult divorce case that has spanned close to three years. After over two years of no progression I found DeRiso Law Group and was blessed to have JP Senich represent me. He moved the case forward and with a very good outcome. Not only is JP a great attorney he is a wonderful person. I highly recommend JP Senich and DeRiso Law Group.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Stephen fleishauer
Very pleased with every aspect of the firm. Everyone has been very professional and courteous. Got good results for my situation. Highly recommended.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Alena esposito
You're doing it wrong if you don't go with DeRiso Law Group! Mike, and the group in it's entireity, was absolutely amazing in helping me go through the entire process. They made the whole things so much easier and took care of everything in the most professional manner.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Xinyan “shannon” ye
Attorney Phil DiLucente was absolutely amazing to work with. He was not only knowledgeable and professional, but also genuinely caring and compassionate. Phil went above and beyond to help our family during a difficult time, and we are so grateful for his guidance and support.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Xinyan “shannon” ye
Attorney Phil DiLucente was absolutely amazing to work with. He was not only knowledgeable and professional, but also genuinely caring and compassionate. Phil went above and beyond to help our family during a difficult time, and we are so grateful for his guidance and support.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Elizabeth caskey
Phil Dilucente & overall Legal Firm (staff) have such a unique compassion for supporting clientele They had the upmost confidence with how to handle my personal circumstance so it was a calm hearted experience since always sensed was in good hands. It's refreshing to deal with genuine hearted humans when going thru an unexpected setback in Life. I appreciated the positive outcome due to staff being Golden Stars in my Heart...never will forget the Graciousness and such Selfless Humans that supported me through an unexpected Life circumstance! Thanks for ALL of genuine kindness..
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29 Jul, 2024 by Hassan sharif
Very pleased with Mateus Law, walked me through every step of the way and was compassionate about my case !
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12 Jul, 2024 by Latoya brewer
Amazing experience with this lawfirm Jack was so wonderful and helpful he is professional and friendly definitely would recommend 10/10
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05 Jun, 2024 by Susilla cory
If you are seeking a great Law Firm, I highly recommend Woomer & Talarico; Attorney Christopher Halesey. I live in Florida and in March 2022 I attended a family funeral in PA with my spouse. However on our way back home, there was a lot of snow and I slipped on the airport tarmac and suffered a terrible broken leg. I had my surgical procedure in PA, had to stay almost an extra week and then fly back to Florida. I reached out to some attorneys (small and large firms) here in my hometown, only to hear they could not help with this case, whether it was because it happened outside Florida or because of the type of case. The funeral home in PA recommended Woomer & Talarico and I have to say I’m so glad they did! I called and Jenn took all my information, then Attorney Christopher Halesey called me back promptly. He was very kind, great listener, gathered information and never hesitated to take on my case. Christopher and his team were very professional, organized, compassionate, hard working, communicated frequently and effectively and never doubted we were going to win the case! I just want to say thank you so much Chris and to your team as well especially Jenn. If I’m ever in PA (summer time) I’m definitely coming to give you a hug! Forever grateful, Sue
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17 May, 2024 by Torrey weems
Been waiting over month for a response to represent my auto accident. They never called me back and I found out they weren't representing me through the opposing insurance company's attorney. What a waste of time.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Latoya brewer
Amazing experience with this lawfirm Jack was so wonderful and helpful he is professional and friendly definitely would recommend 10/10
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05 Jun, 2024 by Susilla cory
If you are seeking a great Law Firm, I highly recommend Woomer & Talarico; Attorney Christopher Halesey. I live in Florida and in March 2022 I attended a family funeral in PA with my spouse. However on our way back home, there was a lot of snow and I slipped on the airport tarmac and suffered a terrible broken leg. I had my surgical procedure in PA, had to stay almost an extra week and then fly back to Florida. I reached out to some attorneys (small and large firms) here in my hometown, only to hear they could not help with this case, whether it was because it happened outside Florida or because of the type of case. The funeral home in PA recommended Woomer & Talarico and I have to say I’m so glad they did! I called and Jenn took all my information, then Attorney Christopher Halesey called me back promptly. He was very kind, great listener, gathered information and never hesitated to take on my case. Christopher and his team were very professional, organized, compassionate, hard working, communicated frequently and effectively and never doubted we were going to win the case! I just want to say thank you so much Chris and to your team as well especially Jenn. If I’m ever in PA (summer time) I’m definitely coming to give you a hug! Forever grateful, Sue
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17 May, 2024 by Torrey weems
Been waiting over month for a response to represent my auto accident. They never called me back and I found out they weren't representing me through the opposing insurance company's attorney. What a waste of time.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Sunday borokini
Great thing i saw. Is how they welcome you nice and great people with beautiful smile and mind set
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22 Jul, 2024 by Darlene widmann
Excellent representation! No other firm would take my case.
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23 May, 2024 by Robert buddenbohn
My experience of being in a vehicle accident and breaking my hip and dislocating my pelvis was certainly a traumatic experience. Spending 2 weeks in the hospital and almost 2 months in rehab was a life changing time of life for me. As time went on, the concerns about how all of this was going to be paid for became real, since it was clear that Medicare was not going to cover everything and I was not eligible for Medicaid. I was very pleased when someone I knew referred me to Friday and Cox and Nelson Gaugler was assigned to my case. Nelson was highly compassionate and totally professional in every respect. He promised to search for every possible opportunity for insurance to cover everything that Medicare did not cover. He left no stone unturned and even though the settlement did not come easy, Nelson was able to obtain a good settlement from the insurance company and was equally able to have Medicare significantly reduce its demand for repayment. When all was said and done, there was even some money left for me to cover a lot of other personal expenses I had. Nelson was clearly a "laborer worthy of his wages". He worked hard on my behalf and certainly earned his keep. I greatly appreciate all that he and the firm did on my behalf and i would recommend them without reservation to anyone who is in need of their services. Thank you again, Nelson.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Harry shields
Our 9 day old 2024 Colorado had a catastrophic failure after 98 miles. We were devastated and felt duped by our dealership. Then I contacted Kimmel & Silverman. Immediately, Robert Silverman and his staff started working for us. They explained everything that would/could happen to get us Justice. We started to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Finally, someone had our back. After less than 4 months, Robert Silverman had a settlement for us from GM. We were happy with the results and we were never charged a dime. If I could give Kimmel & Silverman 10 stars, I would gladly do it. Do not hesitate to call them if you need help.
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05 Jun, 2024 by David h. monroe (msph, phd)
Justin Okun got me out of Jail and now takes care of All my legal needs for a reasonable price!
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25 May, 2024 by Praveen naraharishetty
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10 Oct, 2024 by Marion yothers
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09 Oct, 2024 by Elizabeth sullender
Guided me through the process and stayed on top of everything. I was very pleased with their service.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Kingzora27
Very helpful and patient with me when it took me longer than it should have to be able to get to where I needed, answered every question. had very quick on response and overall a fantastic experience. I would recommend them to anyone going through the same situation I was doing. Keep up the great work and thank you very much
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10 May, 2024 by Adam petrun
There is so much chaos going on in Allegheny County with its property taxes, it's hard to make sense of it. I was unbelievably frustrated when the school district filed a base year appeal against my house, only for the appeal to be dragged out for two years, amidst several court cases going on about the legality of these types of appeals in the first place. Kevin helped save my sanity by making sense of this convoluted process and guiding me through it. I was impressed at how proactive he was at keeping track of developments and keeping me up to date. And his services were covered by a low flat fee. I am thankful he helped me through this process in the way he did.
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09 May, 2024 by Kobie crosley
I had an initial consultation with Kevin regarding an assessment appeal hearing that went very poorly. After I told Kevin I had submitted evidence prior to my assessment hearing he was inflexible and condescending. Rather than politely explaining why he was no longer able to help me because his firm takes an absolute position on their approach to these cases, he proceeded to lecture me about the ramifications of submitting evidence before a hearing. He acknowledged that other law firms will send evidence prior to these hearings which suggests that my reasonable action in following the instructions provided by the BPAAR in sending evidence before my hearing did not kill my case. Despite this, he rudely explained that there was nothing he could do. I hadn't disclosed this prior to my call with Kevin, but I'm also a lawyer in the area and I was surprised by Kevin's unprofessional tone towards a potential client who was merely taking initiative in following the instructions provided by the BPAAR. I don't doubt Kevin's experience and ability to handle these matters. However, his condescending approach to client services were unprofessional and unnecessary.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Geoffrey allerton
Kevin helped us navigate an assessment appeal. He's extremely knowledgeable about the process, and did a great job explaining the process and went out of his way to keep us updated at every step. We're completely satisfied with the service he provided, and would wholeheartedly recommend him to assist with anyone's assessment appeal.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Luis benavides
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07 Aug, 2024 by Quay jones
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07 Aug, 2024 by Martin muraski
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10 Jun, 2024 by Clearbluwater
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25 Mar, 2023 by Kayla
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19 Mar, 2023 by Corey mcdonough
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13 Aug, 2024 by Ashley pamplin
I needed some information and Mr. Brian Walters was SO helpful in explaining my options. I was nervous to even make the call and he made me feel much more comfortable and provided information that helped me make an informed decision.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Gary mack
Attorney Brian Walters is not your average attorney. Let me tell you something about him. HE ACTUALLY CARES!!! He'll go out of his way to be there for everything you need and always listens to all of your questions. I first met Brian close to 20 years ago that I had hired for a close friend. Since then he's been there for me a few times. The last time I called him ,he was on vacation out west and when his phone rang , he actually answered it. It wasn't his office or any other associate,it was Brian that answered. Like I said before,HE ACTUALLY CARES about his clients. In short,,,, if you are ever in need of a excellent attorney, that will always be there for you, remember the name Brian Walters of the Delta Law Group!!!( Thank you Brian for all your help and support ) Respectfully yours Gary
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23 Jun, 2023 by Kyrah carey
Paid $2500 for ONLY the preliminary hearing and she did nothing. Couldn’t even get him bond. She did not put up a fight nor did I feel she had his best interest during the case. Even worse she had no communication with us and was showing up late. I wouldn’t recommend her ever at all. We consulted with a different lawyer who said even said she didn’t do anything he shouldn’t still be in jail because it was an illegal search! He would be out if she did her job. I honestly can’t believe how bad she was. ( AND THE DEFENDANT IS STILL IN JAIL!)
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18 Oct, 2023 by Amelia arnold
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20 Dec, 2022 by Shawna oneal
Nice place. First time there. The entrance is not on the street side. Coffee was good great view of pnc.
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12 Oct, 2022 by Madison custer
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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:

  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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