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18 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
I have been involved in a few different situations that required the help of an attorney over the last 10 years. It can be a very stressful and scary experience. Working with Ms. Tallon Reynolds was the best experience I have had to date. She constantly kept me informed regarding my suite and gave me more than enough time to gather info she needed from me. She explained things so I could fully understand them and was ALWAYS available for a conversation to calm my nerves.
Ms. Tallon Reynolds was thorough and very professional. She got the results my family and I needed and made it the best experience it could be! I would highly reccomend her to all and in the unfortunate situation I find myself needing representation in the future, I would call on her without question!
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14 Sep, 2010 by Cindy
Paul and his associates were both professional and very compassionate. They care about taking care of their clients. If it wasn't for his help I don't know what we would have done. He helped us through everything and more. I would highly recommend him to anyone. Cindy Schneider
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22 Oct, 2008 by Anonymous
Matt helped my wife and I after a serious motorcycle accident. He was very helpful and handled everything in a professional and timely manner. I would recommend him to anyone needing legal advice. He also recommended an attorney to handle another case outside his expertise. What more can I say.
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27 Jan, 2018 by James
Tom helped me resolve a difficult dispute with my insurance company. He is extremely knowledgeable and has many years of experience. He seems to be extremely well connected in the legal community, which makes him an effective advocate.
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03 Jun, 2010 by Angela clark
I have worked with Kerry for over 5 years - I have known him to be highly competent, efficient, organized and capable of handling complex litigated cases.
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22 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Alex Ackel represented me in a personal injury case after I was seriously injured in a car accident. I found his practice through the recommendation of a friend, and they did not lead me astray. When I started the process I had no prior experience with personal injury law. Therefore, I appreciated that Alex set clear expectations about how the process would work and kept me informed throughout. His office staff were responsive and professional. Alex negotiated tirelessly on my behalf with both car insurance companies. I obviously wish I had not been hurt in the first place, but the experience working with Alex couldn't have gone more smoothly.
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16 Feb, 2018 by Michael
Love this team!
From day one they were on top of every aspect. Filings, documents, discovery.... It made it easier to start the healing, not having to worry about the legal aspect of all this. Very professional and assertive
towards getting a positive resolution for me.
Deborah, Jeff, and the entire staff were a pleasure to work with and I'm honored to call them friends.
If there is a way to help you, they will give it full measure!
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02 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Dan took a highly dedicated and professional approach. He is very smart and with a keen sense of strategy and attention to detail. The legal briefs he wrote were excellent. They showed a deep knowledge of the law along with a talent for shining light on the truth. Dan kept track of everything in a timely way and missed no opportunity to move the case forward to a successful conclusion. He is courteous as well as professional and a pleasure to work with. Very highly recommended.
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28 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Moore handled our daughter's auto accident a few years ago. He is the best. He does his research and will never settle with an insurance company until his client is taken care of. He kept us informed at all times and was beyond knowledgeable! A more than fair settlement was reached and we couldn't have done it without him.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Gabriel castillo
14 Dec, 2023 by Gabriel castillo
29 Jan, 2025 by Carina mv
A huge thank you to Matthew Hale at Hale Law Enterprises! This whole process was causing me a lot of anxiety, but Matthew made it completely stress-free. As a single mom, I was really worried about my DUI, but he worked hard to get it reduced to reckless driving. I’m beyond grateful for everything Matthew has done for me. Thank you so much!
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27 Jan, 2025 by Roman revko
Mattew is the best lawyer. I recommend him to everyone. Thank you very much Mathew.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Olga revko
Matt went above and beyond to help us in our case. He listens and cares about his clients. I highly recommend him.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Art castaneda
Dann and his team are extremely professional and helpful when it comes to anything legal related. They have been able to answer complex questions and guide me through the proper steps to handle my business
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28 Nov, 2024 by Omar carreon
It's thanksgiving I'm thankful for dann & his team they r amazing staff help me out in a major way
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25 Nov, 2024 by Sherrina ward
I strongly recommend Dann and Travis Sheffield as your attorneys. Approximately two years ago, I enlisted their services following a car accident on the freeway. Throughout the process, I received unparalleled dedication and commitment from both Dann and his son Travis, who consistently demonstrated genuine concern for my well-being. Despite initial uncertainty about the proceedings, Dann and Travis expertly guided me through the process, rendering it remarkably straightforward. Their exceptional professionalism, coupled with their unwavering availability to address my concerns, solidifies their perfect score in my opinion. I give them a 10 out of 10 for sure and if I ever am in need of a lawyer it will most definitely be them.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Jennifer sanchez
15 Jan, 2025 by Mellyjelly
Martina was incredibly professional. When I needed her to elaborate or repeat something she did so with understanding and kindness.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Katya barradas
Fielding Law group has been so helpful , all staff members who helped were very caring and supportive through every step. Thank you all so much for!
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24 Dec, 2024 by Mintee slime
Donna Mack and the whole ELG crew helped me out so much. I tripped at a local restaurant and had a bad injury. Great result. Thank you Emerald Law group!
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18 Nov, 2024 by Julianne stanford
Ada's a fierce and committed advocate. You'd be lucky to have her on your side.
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17 Nov, 2024 by Anna m
These folks know their stuff. Super responsive, helpful and savvy. It's never fun to need a lawyer but it's so reassuring to know I'm in good hands.
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5.0
20 Reviews
3.4
10 Reviews
11 Jul, 2024 by Kristopher lichtanski
I have had an excellent experience with CCL and Ms. Choi in the matter of a complicated easement / title situation. The office staff was super responsive, appointments were scheduled quickly and in collaboration with my schedule/availability, and the meetings I had with Ms. Choi were focused, organized, and super productive. I felt that Ms. Choi was prepared for the meetings, understood what I was dealing with, and discussed with me multiple options and potential outcomes regarding this legal matter, which is going to end up in Court. I could not have asked for a better attorney for my situation (and I have consulted with others prior to CCL) and I very much look forward to my ongoing work with CCL and Ms. Choi. I recommend CCL and Ms. Choi wholeheartedly!
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05 May, 2024 by Ricardo saenz
I arranged a meeting with her to discuss immigration matters and seek professional validation of the process I had completed on my own. Unfortunately, during our reunion, she seemed more focused on protecting herself than genuinely assisting me. However, when I attended my USCIS appointment today, everything was in order, and the concerns she raised did not materialize. It was a stressful experience unnecessarily.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Larry hu
I did not have a good experience with the law firm. My main issues is that Boyoon Choi would repeatedly interrupt me and cut me off before I could finish speaking and there were some mannerisms like scoffing (in a subtle but noticeable way) that came off as pretty condescending and I received a general negative feeling from the tone of voice she used with me. She was also 6 minutes late to our Zoom meeting but cut our 30 minute meeting short nonetheless so we really only had 24 minutes together. I'm sure she would probably bill the time for 30 minutes to my MetLife benefits and not the 24 minutes that I actually got. The way I see it, if a client does not have the correct understanding then inform them in a respectful way. Trying to be subtle with mannerisms like quietly scoffing or responding with a negative tone, one that felt a bit indignant towards me feels less like you're working with someone that's trying to advocate for you and more like you're talking to someone that's trying to take out whatever stress she may be having towards you. It seems that no wonder her staff seems to sound a bit on edge over the phone as I can imagine what it can be like to be subjected to that over time.
She also knew that my home is in Snohomish County but told me that she can't help with the eviction process in that area, but took my money through my MetLife benefit anyway. That's pretty messed up.
Lastly, I also felt it was problematic to be told that she did not know the RCW that covered why a 90 day notice to vacate due to sale is not enforceable unless it is specifically mentioned in the lease agreement. When I requested clarification for her to specify how is this the case, she could only tell me it's part of the general landlord tenant rights that a lease agreement has to specify that an early termination can take place due to sale and that this language would not be specifically mentioned due to it being covered under the general umbrella of tenant rights. However, RCW 59.18.650 clearly states it's permissible for a landlord to end a lease agreement early with cause for the purpose of selling a home.
Boyoon Choi should really be careful with giving advice that she clearly does not know the basis for. It is concerning when you ask for the RCW that she does not know it, and scoffs at you while mentioning it's part of the general rights for a tenant.
Anyways, here is what I was told by another source about the permissibility of ending a lease early to sell the home:
In Washington State, typically, if a landlord provides a 90-day notice to vacate for the purpose of selling the property, this is generally considered lawful. In Washington State, the enforceability of a 90-day notice to vacate due to the sale of a property typically does not require a specific clause in the lease agreement stating that sale of the home entails the tenant moving out. The standard process allows landlords to issue such a notice as part of the rights to dispose of their property, assuming other legal and procedural requirements are met (e.g., proper notice period and service).
Lastly, she was also incorrect about my MetLife legal benefit. She said I don't have benefits for litigation as part of my benefit but in my MetLife portal it clearly states: "This service covers the Participant as a landlord for matters involving leases, security deposits and disputes with a residential tenant. The service includes attorney services for the eviction of a tenant up to and including trial."
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02 Jan, 2025 by Erin galeno
We greatly appreciate the practical and responsive legal support that we receive from Imants and the entire legal team at Holmquist & Gardiner PLLC.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Ming fung
Have been a client of Imants Holmquist for almost 10 years. Worked with quite a few attorneys in the firm over the years. Truly enjoy their client centric culture, can-do attitude, and very efficient work model. My business needs have changed and evolved over time but their well-rounded team is always just a call away.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Lisa longnecker
This firm was referred to me as one of a shortlist who were qualified and adept to helping homeowners regain their property rights when faced with a squatter situation. This is of paramount importance, as Seattle's corrupt so-called eviction "court" is "adjudicated" by pro-tenants-rights advocates and homeowners win only 15% of the time. This sham court pushes out cases for months or years while the homeowners themselves can be left homeless (like we were.) Phil Neale helped us with the necessary paperwork. He was professional, compassionate, understanding and creative. Our case was resolved quickly in an unexpected way and I cannot imagine how it would have happened without their help. We are now back in our own house, homeless no longer. I highly, highly recommend this firm.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Nichole kyrkos
12 Aug, 2022 by Sunil
Andrew represented me after I was hit by a motor vehicle and sustained serious injuries. Andrew gave me sound advice and advocated tenaciously for me. He and his team incuding his paralegal, Deb, were available at every turn. Andrew explained each step and all strategy in a straightforward way that left me and my family feeling more secure knowing our rights were protected. Nobody wants to go through this kind of experience. It can be confusing to select a lawyer, but if you find yourself needing excellent representation, Andrew has the experience, knowledge and personality that you can trust.
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11 Dec, 2021 by Nichole kyrkos
27 Feb, 2020 by Miranda
Dann was knowledgeable and able to effectively get my case handled. I’m pleased with the results and grateful to have hired him.
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20 Nov, 2013 by Jeff
I met Dann and was impressed with his desire to help. I had a small case and yet he still took it on and fought for me.
We received a settlement offer and I followed his advice on accepting. I then find out he went back and negotiated for a larger amount than I was expecting.
I was really impressed that after I received my portion of the settlement, I received a call from Dann saying that he negotiated with the chiropractor I went to for rehab and negotiated an additional $500 for me off the doctors bill. Dann went above and beyond for what I considered was a small case.
Dann showed me there is no small case only right and wrong.
If he went the extra mile for me I know he will for you as well.
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11 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
i did have an issure with Mr Sheffield---but then they worked with me and corrected the misunderstanding that I had with him....My calimm was successfully litigated and resulted in a successful conclusion...he also helped gave me information on another matter I had ...thanks
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26 Aug, 2010 by Mike
Ann Rosato is an incredibly talented, passionate and meticulous attorney whom I can’t say enough good things about. I had the pleasure to have Ann as my primary attorney in an automobile accident case that spanned almost 3 years.
Throughout the long pre-trial phase Ann communicated with us on a regular basis and always was professional, friendly and caring. Because of the many court delays we ended up having to videotape testimony for several witnesses however Ann did such an outstanding job drawing out quality testimony that the jury made good connections with my witnesses.
During the trial phase Ann continued to come across as the professional, friendly and caring person that she is. She was meticulous in her preparation, delivery, appearance and approach with witnesses, Jury, Judge and opposing council. Through the combined use of new technology and old fashion pen & paper Ann told my story in a compelling way that helped the Jury decide in our favor.
From my first meeting with Ann (3) years ago through to the closing arguments Ann stood out as a shining example of what the Attorney profession is supposed to strive for.
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03 Feb, 2010 by Lisa
I couldn't have asked for a more perfect attorney. Ann was the other half of my Peterson Young Putra legal team. From day one, Ann listened and she responded with patience to my many questions. Her style worked. Those skills, along with the team's extensive legal knowledge, resulted in a legal and emotional triumph. I would absolutely recommend Ann Rosato.
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04 Apr, 2008 by Anonymous
Job well done
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11 Nov, 2024 by Tyra j
I would like to take the time out to thank the Bernard Law Group & my Attorney Meg for being such a great injury attorney team. Since the very first day I had contacted them at the very beginning of this year in January about my injury they were immediately taking action regarding my case & also keeping me updated step by step . Thank you so much :)
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08 Oct, 2024 by Wendy montano lopez
My husband was involved in a near fatal catastrophic head on collision in June. The woman who caused this is a repeat drunk! We were recommended Bernard Law Group to take our case. My initial phone call was with Carly, who fostered us through the entire process, she quite literally took the lead and ran with it. I can say her professionalism, client relation, her knowledge, her support, her response time to all the things we needed her for and her incredible patience holding us through it all. However silly I thought a question might be, her reassurance was what held us together. Gina, our attorney, was so easy to talk with, she explained the process so well so we could clearly understand and was always available when we needed her. Our settlement turned out to be so much more than we ever imagined and now moving forward to a new chapter we've been given hope. These two ladies are the powerhouses YOU need if ever faced with this kind of tragedy. Don't spend time waiting and wondering...call THIS law firm they will carry through 🩷
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27 Sep, 2024 by Pat pickney
I was hit head on by a 2nd time drunk driver offender . Bernard Law Group "TOOK CARE OF ME 100% They took all my worries away and at the end of the day I didn't owe anything to anyone and I got funds to help me. I was off work for 4 months. "I pray I never have to go through anything so terrible again BUT IF I DO call Bernard Law Group
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23 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Despite not taking my case, Aaron very helpfully read through my case details and thoroughly explained them to me, referencing recent cases and other useful context. I really appreciated his willingness to help and thoughtful approach.
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29 Dec, 2007 by Anonymous
Aaron represented me in a personal injury case. He was patient and an excellent listener. He always kept me informed about my case. Everything Aaron did was in my best interest and I received a very fair settlement. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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14 Jun, 2022 by Mark glancey
Extraordinary legal services. If you are looking for expert and friendly legal advice you cannot do better than Dorsey.
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26 Jan, 2017 by Bryn waibel
14 May, 2019 by Hn
I was so fortunate that Mary Ruth Mann took my case against my employer. I can’t begin to adequately express my gratitude to a woman who remained by my side during a very lengthy case. Engaging in a law suit against anyone is a big decision and a stressful undertaking. Finding the right attorney is crucial. I thank God every day that I found Mary Ruth. When she told me to put my fears aside and allow her to do the worrying for me, she truly lightened my load. Mary Ruth is a woman of integrity who is brilliant, unafraid, and exactly the person one needs in his/her corner when going up against any adversary. After getting to know her, I pity the individual who makes the mistake of underestimating her abilities. Frankly, she’s amazing, tireless, and tenacious. If I were to need legal counsel again, I would go directly to Mary Ruth. I’d be a fool not to. You are the best, Mary Ruth. What a ride it was. And thanks to you, we won.
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18 Feb, 2015 by Dawn
If MRM has been practicing 35 years we were her among her early clients. She was amazing the and still is. I have not needed an attorney much since 1981 but when I have she is the best advisor. Never has forced a litigation on any. She did took my husband I through the end of a horrid family court matter that had taken on a life of its own even after remarriages . Former attorneys had settled nothing to the satisfaction of any party, including new husband or new wife. We did prevail on a permanent maintenance beyond remarriage of the recipient or payment of attorney fees by husband. She took it to appeals and won on both. She did not further damage the already fragile relationship between divorced parents of a fragile preteen in the process. Time passes we are grandparents, everyone is the exact same personality as they were in then. She worked hard for us in an area of law that is not her specialty but she has left her mark with these appeals and by assuring we newly weds had a chance at making a marriage and eventual family find peace. For that We are eternally grateful.
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30 Apr, 2011 by A young woman with her career path in jeopardy
Mary Ruth is a genuine, caring and extremely knowledgable lawyer. Throughout my case (which went on for 3 years) I was kept up to date on the latest developments. As each obsticle came about I was thoroughly informed of my options as how I could proceed and loved the fact that I was in the officers seat and made the decisions.
Her knowledge of the law and my rights was impressive. It was evident why she is such a highly reputable and sought after lawyer. The fact she only takes cases she truly believes in and not just anyone who walks through the door impressed me.
Ms Mann (as well as her staff) treated me as family and not just a client. She was genuinly concerned about my well being and health every step of the 3 yr ordeal. When things got heated and I needed a break or to take a time out we did. People will never truly understand how stressful a law suit and trial are until they go through it themselves! She sacrificed many holidays as well as weekends to do what needed to be done!
I would highly recommend Mary Ruth to anyone who is looking for a quality and passionate lawyer. I will continue to refer her to family and friends!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Max wahl
Credit to the LvBC team - Seth and Karl are outstanding!
I hired them to assist with a residential real estate case. I performed an initial consultation with several other firms, but Seth and LvBC clearly stood out even at early stages. Throughout the entire process they were consistently responsive, informative, and realistic/honest with me. I truly felt like I had expert guidance at every step, and that they took their duty of looking out for my best interest seriously.
LvBC got a tough case - it was a complex situation, the case lasted longer than expected, and there were multiple teams of opposing counsel to contend with. Seth and Karl are the real deal though - and they helped secure a favorable outcome for me. I have seen them work, and they are the folks that you want on your team.
While I hope to not be in a similar situation again, without a doubt LvBC would be my first choice should the need arise. I'm happy to recommend them to anyone else who should also require similar assistance.
Thanks again to the LvBC team - wishing you all well!
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20 Nov, 2024 by N j
31 Oct, 2024 by Kyle pellett
Dave and his team were honest and straightforward with expectations. Always felt I was in good hands all the way through. Would recommend and use again.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Dan gerl
I have known Tim Leary for over two decades. He is one of the best Seattle area criminal defense attorneys in my opinion. He takes on difficult cases and gets amazing results. You are in good hands with him in your corner!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Rajinder singh
I was going through a tough time in my life when everything looked like a lost cause. Then, my family found Defense Attorney: Chris Black. At our first meeting, Mr. Black gave me hope. With him on our side, we felt assured that our case would be handled swiftly and smoothly.
He kept us updated and was always available to answer our calls and emails promptly. Mr. Black went above and beyond—efficient, courteous, and professional. I highly recommend Chris Black’s legal services to anyone in need.
As a unique case, I have truly never met a lawyer like Mr. Black. He keeps it real and is a genuine advocate for his clients.
Thank you, Chris, for your solid support and for being such a positive force during that difficult time.
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13 Nov, 2024 by Mick holsbeke
These folks are just great! I urgently needed to understand my rights. A lawyer friend recommended Macdonald Hoague & Bayless, and I will always call them first. Jesse Wing, Adarsh N. Parthasarathy, and their team were warm, empathetic, generous, friendly, efficient, and extremely competent. I honestly couldn't have asked for better legal advice and support! Working with them solved my issues and empowered me with strategies to advocate for myself! I couldn't imagine going anywhere else for legal representation.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Erin galeno
We greatly appreciate the practical and responsive legal support that we receive from Imants and the entire legal team at Holmquist & Gardiner PLLC.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Ming fung
Have been a client of Imants Holmquist for almost 10 years. Worked with quite a few attorneys in the firm over the years. Truly enjoy their client centric culture, can-do attitude, and very efficient work model. My business needs have changed and evolved over time but their well-rounded team is always just a call away.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Lisa longnecker
This firm was referred to me as one of a shortlist who were qualified and adept to helping homeowners regain their property rights when faced with a squatter situation. This is of paramount importance, as Seattle's corrupt so-called eviction "court" is "adjudicated" by pro-tenants-rights advocates and homeowners win only 15% of the time. This sham court pushes out cases for months or years while the homeowners themselves can be left homeless (like we were.) Phil Neale helped us with the necessary paperwork. He was professional, compassionate, understanding and creative. Our case was resolved quickly in an unexpected way and I cannot imagine how it would have happened without their help. We are now back in our own house, homeless no longer. I highly, highly recommend this firm.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Jenny
Maria worked hard on our case for injuries sustained from a car accident. It took more time as we had 2020 shut down & other things come up. But in the end we were able to settle for much more than I ever expected. She will fight hard for you… excellent attorney to have on your side!
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25 May, 2023 by Melanie
Left us with a detailed plan. She did not follow through, with 75% of it. Never once in a year did she reach out to update our family, all contact was initiated by me. She only responds via email. In reading through all of these reviews, we did not receive the same treatment. She gives up easily.
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04 Nov, 2021 by Tammy
She is an excellent attorney. She will fight for you with all that she has.Shes very knowledgeable and truly makes you feel comfortable and confident..she will explain and keep you well informed on everything that is happening and what may happen..Was an absolute pleasure having her on my side.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Erin galeno
We greatly appreciate the practical and responsive legal support that we receive from Imants and the entire legal team at Holmquist & Gardiner PLLC.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Ming fung
Have been a client of Imants Holmquist for almost 10 years. Worked with quite a few attorneys in the firm over the years. Truly enjoy their client centric culture, can-do attitude, and very efficient work model. My business needs have changed and evolved over time but their well-rounded team is always just a call away.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Lisa longnecker
This firm was referred to me as one of a shortlist who were qualified and adept to helping homeowners regain their property rights when faced with a squatter situation. This is of paramount importance, as Seattle's corrupt so-called eviction "court" is "adjudicated" by pro-tenants-rights advocates and homeowners win only 15% of the time. This sham court pushes out cases for months or years while the homeowners themselves can be left homeless (like we were.) Phil Neale helped us with the necessary paperwork. He was professional, compassionate, understanding and creative. Our case was resolved quickly in an unexpected way and I cannot imagine how it would have happened without their help. We are now back in our own house, homeless no longer. I highly, highly recommend this firm.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Do for You
A wrongful death lawyer specializes in representing families who have lost a loved one due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another person or entity. These lawyers help families seek compensation for the emotional and financial losses associated with the untimely death of a loved one, including medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, loss of companionship, and pain and suffering. Wrongful death claims can arise from various situations, including car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, and criminal actions.
If you have lost a family member due to someone else’s wrongful actions, a wrongful death lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and pursue justice on behalf of your loved one.
When Should I Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a wrongful death lawyer if a loved one has died as a result of someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm. Some common reasons to hire a wrongful death lawyer include:
- Car accidents: If a loved one was killed in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident caused by another driver’s negligence (e.g., reckless driving, DUI, or distracted driving), a lawyer can help you file a wrongful death claim.
- Medical malpractice: If a loved one died due to medical negligence, such as a misdiagnosis, surgical error, or medication mistake, a wrongful death lawyer can help you pursue compensation from the healthcare provider.
- Workplace accidents: If your loved one died in a workplace accident or due to unsafe working conditions, you may be entitled to compensation from the employer or third parties responsible for the unsafe conditions.
- Defective products: If a defective product caused your loved one’s death, a lawyer can help you file a wrongful death claim against the manufacturer or distributor of the product.
- Criminal actions: If your loved one was the victim of a criminal act, such as homicide or assault, a wrongful death lawyer can help you pursue a civil claim for damages, even if a criminal case is also ongoing.
- Nursing home negligence: If an elderly loved one died due to neglect or abuse in a nursing home, a lawyer can help you hold the facility accountable for their wrongful actions.
Hiring a wrongful death lawyer soon after the incident ensures that important evidence is preserved and that you can meet any legal deadlines for filing a claim.
What Does a Wrongful Death Lawyer Do?
A wrongful death lawyer provides a wide range of services to help families navigate the legal complexities of a wrongful death claim and seek compensation for their losses. Their responsibilities often include:
- Investigating the death: Conducting a thorough investigation of the circumstances leading to your loved one’s death, gathering evidence such as medical records, accident reports, and witness statements.
- Establishing liability: Identifying who is legally responsible for your loved one’s death, whether it’s an individual, company, or government entity, and building a case showing how their negligence or wrongful actions caused the death.
- Calculating damages: Helping you determine the full extent of your financial and emotional losses, including funeral expenses, medical bills, lost income, loss of companionship, and pain and suffering.
- Filing a wrongful death claim: Preparing and filing the necessary legal documents to initiate a wrongful death lawsuit within the statute of limitations in your state.
- Negotiating settlements: Working with the responsible party’s insurance company or legal team to negotiate a fair settlement for your losses.
- Representing you in court: If a settlement cannot be reached, representing you in court by presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Handling legal deadlines: Ensuring that all legal filings are completed within the deadlines set by your state’s statute of limitations for wrongful death cases.
How Are Wrongful Death Lawyers Paid?
Wrongful death lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win or settle the case. Here’s how it generally works:
- Contingency fee: The lawyer’s fee is usually a percentage of the total settlement or damages awarded, typically ranging from 25% to 40%. You won’t have to pay any upfront fees, and the lawyer only gets paid if they successfully recover compensation for you.
- No fee if no recovery: If the lawyer does not win or settle your case, you generally won’t owe them any legal fees.
- Case expenses: In addition to the contingency fee, you may also be responsible for reimbursing the lawyer for case-related expenses, such as court costs, expert witness fees, and investigation costs. These expenses are typically deducted from the settlement or award.
It’s essential to discuss the fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation to ensure you understand how much you will owe if your case is successful.
How Much Does a Wrongful Death Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a wrongful death lawyer is usually based on a contingency fee structure, meaning you only pay if the lawyer recovers compensation for you. General cost estimates include:
- Contingency fee percentage: Most wrongful death lawyers charge between 25% and 40% of the total settlement or court award. For example, if you receive a $500,000 settlement and the lawyer’s fee is 33%, the lawyer would receive $165,000, and you would keep the remaining $335,000.
- Case expenses: In addition to the lawyer’s fee, expenses such as court costs, expert witness fees, and investigation costs may be deducted from the settlement or award. These expenses can range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
Make sure to ask your lawyer for a clear explanation of their fees and case-related expenses before proceeding with your wrongful death claim.
Top Questions to Ask a Wrongful Death Lawyer
Before hiring a wrongful death lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they have the experience and resources to handle your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with wrongful death cases?
Ensure the lawyer has successfully handled cases similar to yours, whether it’s medical malpractice, car accidents, or workplace deaths. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify the lawyer’s contingency fee percentage and any additional costs, such as case expenses, that you may be responsible for. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and any potential challenges that could affect the outcome. -
How long will the process take?
Wrongful death cases can take time to resolve, so ask how long the lawyer expects the process to last, from filing the claim to reaching a settlement or going to trial. -
Will you handle my case personally?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
What types of damages can I recover?
Ask the lawyer to explain the types of compensation you may be entitled to, such as medical bills, funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering.
How to Check the Credibility of a Wrongful Death Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable wrongful death lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for wrongful death experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in wrongful death cases and have successfully handled cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on wrongful death cases.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Membership in organizations like the American Association for Justice (AAJ) or local bar associations can indicate the lawyer’s dedication to wrongful death and personal injury law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a wrongful death lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Death certificate: Bring a copy of your loved one’s death certificate, as this is a key document in wrongful death cases.
- Medical records: If applicable, bring your loved one’s medical records, autopsy reports, or any documentation of their medical care leading up to their death.
- Accident or incident reports: If the wrongful death resulted from an accident, bring any police reports, accident reports, or workplace incident reports.
- Financial records: Provide documentation of your loved one’s income, benefits, and financial contributions to the family to help calculate economic damages.
- Correspondence: Bring any communication you’ve had with the responsible party, their insurance company, or legal representatives.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions for the lawyer about the legal process, potential outcomes, and fees.
- Timeline of events: Be ready to provide a clear timeline of the events leading up to and following your loved one’s death.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice.
