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James Bulthuis, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Seattle, WA with 27 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
31,28
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4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
27 Reviews
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18 Jan, 2025 by N m
I originally hired Sean because a plumbing company had caused structural damages to floor joists during a renovation and they would not accept responsibility. What happened instead was Sean transferred me to Joe and the lawsuit lasted 2 1/2 years. We ended up going to arbitration and I won all damages but zero lawyers fees. Incredibly frustrating experience. I wouldn’t hire nor recommend them. I regret hiring Sean and Joe.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Brian c
I worked with Will Reingold, Jr for my divorce, who was recommended to me by a friend. He was friendly and knowledgeable for a process that is painful for most. The guy always works and never seems to miss a beat. He is always on top of it and prioritizes to get things done/executed like you're his only client. He made efforts to resolve more complicated challenges like parental rights of embryos even though it's not his wheelhouse.
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29 May, 2024 by Cheryl nodland
I'd like to thank William Reingold for beautifully handling my daughter's divorce appeal case. His professionalism, legal knowledge and compassion brought a horrible situation to a successful end. We both highly recommend Mr. Reingold.
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Karen Kathryn Koehler, experienced Car Accident, Medical Malpractice attorney in Seattle, WA with 10 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,13
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4.2/5
Avvo
5.0
8 Reviews
Google Maps
1.0
2 Reviews
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04 Oct, 2024 by Nichole kyrkos
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star star star star star
11 Dec, 2021 by Nichole kyrkos
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08 May, 2014 by John
I would highly recommend Karen to anyone dealing with a personal injury case. The legal process may be slow and complicated, but Karen's office allowed me to keep living my life with minimal inconvenience as my case progressed. I always felt confident that Karen had my best interest in mind and I was thoroughly pleased with how my case resolved.
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Raymond Stillman Weber, experienced Appeals, Government attorney in Seattle, WA with 79 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,65
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4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
79 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Dec, 2024 by Preston hoxie
I received the services I paid for. The team was very responsive every step of the way. If I need future legal services I will use them again.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Marie broten
I contacted Zuanich Law about 22 months ago to get my gun rights back. We covered all the pertinent information they needed to start the case. I paid the retainer and left them to do what they needed to do without my interruptions. After several months I hadn’t heard anything, I was worried so I contacted them to see what the progress was. They filed a motion in my county, it was review and denied as there was a law change prior to their filing. Brian Zuanich talked to me in depth about refiling in Pierce County as that is where my initial felony was signed. Again I left them alone to file the motions and hoping this would happen. Again several months later, I was thinking this was a lost cause then I received an email from their office telling me that the Courts signed the motion to restore the right to own and possess a firearm in Washington State. Yeah!! I was really surprised and happy. It took longer than I thought it would but they stayed the course. There were other options I could have taken if this motion was denied as well but Brian Zuanich knew what he needed to do and how to move forward. That’s the important thing with you hire an attorney, make sure they know the system for the type of law you need to have help with. Yes, I am very satisfied with their office and will recommend them everytime!
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15 Nov, 2024 by Dane cook
Mister Brian Zuanich and his paralegal Kristy were an integral part of my civil rights restoration. Without sharing too many personal details of my case, I can say I had a rather unique complication with my process involving a move between Washington and Oregon that the Zuanich team were able to help me navigate and understand. Legalities between states and documents from one state to another are not always equal. For myself, and most others I'd wager, these are complicated matters and were something that I personally wasn't too knowledgeable of. The Zuanich law team, however, clearly laid out what options I could take and, after choosing what to do, along the way ensured to keep me informed and give me a clear understanding of what needed to be done, as well as what parts I could do to make things smoother in the process. Their know-how in what needed to be done got the matter resolved. I would recommend their services to anyone attempting to restore their civil / firearm rights in Washington or Oregon.
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David L. Crump, experienced Medical Malpractice, Personal Injury attorney in Seattle, WA with 13 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,00
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
13 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Feb, 2025 by Ilarie letca
Highly Recommended Divorce Lawyer Erica provided clear guidance, strong representation, and always had my best interests in mind. My case involved complex financial and custody issues, but she handled everything with professionalism and skill. Thanks to her expertise, I reached a fair resolution and can move forward with confidence. If you need a dedicated and knowledgeable divorce lawyer, I highly recommend Erica.
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21 Feb, 2025 by Isabelle roy
Exceptional dedication and care, knowledge and experience. Erica was able to get me the impossible 10 years ago - full custody of my 5 year old daughter after I divorced an abuser. She was the first one to tell me my circumstances will unlikely yield a full custody, I replied I HAD too. We got full custody and a 5 years DVPO, Erica did it! Last November after 6 months of harassment , treats and coercive control , I found myself in court again to ask for another DVPO protecting my daughter and I from the same man, her “ father “. She told me to hold off for a few months before she knew it worth spending the money on representation. Once we got there , she told me and once again, she got us another DVPO. Erica has a heart for her clients, she made the difference in the life I and my daughter have. I am forever thankful and have recommended her more than I have recommended contractors ( I am a real estate broker :) all my friends know her by name! Isabelle Dowling
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21 Feb, 2025 by Rebecca colter
Knauf Santos Law counseled me through a difficult process of renegotiating a parenting plan and child support agreement with my children’s father. Erica was incredibly helpful answering all my questions and providing solid advice with the utmost professionalism, legal expertise, and compassion during a very difficult time for me. Her advice was critical in helping me make the right legal choices and I got the desired outcomes I had hoped for! I have always felt that she has my best interest and the interest of my kids in mind. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for legal counsel!
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Viivi Marie Vanderslice, experienced Car Accident, Medical Malpractice attorney in Seattle, WA with 5 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,52
star star star star star
4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
5 Reviews
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04 May, 2022 by Jessica
Awful, horrible and never again! I was in a bad accident in 2018, the insurance company wanted releases signed within 13 hours. I knew something was right so I contacted Bernard Law Group. I should have done better research and more calling around. 2 years of treatment came to a referral for a procedure my insurance doesn't cover, doesn't even consider it it's just flat excluded from the policy. 2 years of what I am now realizing was just lies and passing blame to the other side. 2 months later and I am still waiting and being fed more lies. Viivi Vanderslice is incompeten, doesn't listen to you and just does whatever she feels is best for you without discussing or considering your wants or needs. If I could get the fee they collected for themselves I would, they don't deserve even half of what they got.
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09 Jun, 2014 by Mike
actually.i recommend vivi v. alot as personal experience brought me to the bernard law firm. what seemed like a simple case became complcated by my insurance company.she is very knowable , caring and turned a loser into a winner.
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31 May, 2013 by Dawn
Viivi did an amazing job on my case! I am so pleased with the outcome. She is a tough negotiator and I felt as though she really cared about me and the outcome of my case. I would recommend Viivi to anyone needing a tough, competent, aggressive attorney! THANK YOU VIIVI!
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Rebecca Reed Morris, experienced Car Accident, Criminal Defense attorney in Seattle, WA with 9 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,59
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
9 Reviews
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30 Jan, 2024 by Sam jones
We are contemplating a move back to Washington state where we lived for many years. Without proper estate planning we would potentially be subject to the Washington estate tax. n our initial contacts with the firm, we clearly identified that we were residents in another state. We were instructed to provide our detailed financial picture as well as our current estate planning documents which we provided promptly and told that our information would be forwarded to the attorneys for evaluation. The following is the email response. “Thank you for filling out and returning your Questionnaire. I will forward your information to our attorneys for review. Once they have completed their review, I will be back in touch with you regarding a quote for services and the next steps for scheduling.” Well over a month went by with no word back from STIB. I finally contacted them by email requesting a status update. Within minutes, I received the following reply. “Thank you very much for contacting our firm. Unfortunately, we are not able to take on your case. Our firm does not advise out-of-state residents on tax issues. Our focus is estate planning and long term care planning.” The STIB website clearly tax issues as part of estate planning. I also found no restrictions on attorneys in Washington state providing consultation to out-of-state residents considering residency in Washington. Needless to say, I was astounded by what I consider to extremely poor communication and timely follow-up. If it is indeed not their policy to advise out-of-state residents on tax issues, I would have expected to have been informed of that policy up front thus saving us the time of compiling and sending detailed and confidential financial and estate planning information. In my opinion, this represents incompetent and totally unprofessional behavior.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Michelle tanco
As someone who has no experience with wills or lawyers and doesn’t understand the process, this was a bad fit. It’s quite possible that if you know what to ask or what’s happening that they will be great for you, but for me I ended up with a $120 invoice for two emails I didn’t understand what to do with, going to look for someone else to help us setup out family will.
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18 Jul, 2023 by Michael o'connell
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Jason Leonard Simmons, experienced Car Accident, Medical Malpractice attorney in Seattle, WA with 37 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,40
star star star star star
4.1/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.2
36 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Jan, 2025 by Ryan riggins
This company was retained to assist someone trying to steal my land. They clearly have a losing case. This firm has delayed every email and settlement offer presented to them. They takes weeks or months to respond to calls and emails if at all. It is clear they are doing this to delay the process to rack fees for their clients. Read all the horrible reviews about this firm online and how they treat their own clients and opposing counsel offering them more than generous settlements. We have 7 attorneys and have never experienced this kind of unprofessionalism. Even our property insirance company and the firm retained said this is the most unprofessional communication ever. All they have to do is agree to a settlement but they delay the process to rack of trial fees and do not communicate with clients or opposing counsel. Read all the horrible reviews before hiring these people.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Mitch keszler
I retained their services for help with business contracts, and business partner discussions. They were extremely prompt, thorough, and helped me succeed with positive outcomes. I first worked with Imants, then mostly with Phil Neale. Phil was very easy to get a hold of, and constantly updated me on progress. Every time I called in, he either answered the call right away, or called back very shortly afterwards. Highly recommend, and we will retain their services when needed again in the future!
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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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Gregory W. Albert, experienced Civil Rights, Personal Injury attorney in Seattle, WA with 3 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,04
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
He was very rude and I felt like he did not want to talk to me. I needed help in a civil matter and was referred to him by one of my friends
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01 Mar, 2017 by Chuck
Outstanding attorney. Extremely effective, diligent, and very intelligent. Friendly and easy to work with. Also has high ethical standards and a sense of morality - not your typical attorney. Greg saved our bacon after our first attorney passed away, and the second turned out to be "less than diligent". Greg jumped right in, wrote exceptionally well researched motions, and cogently advocated our claims.
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30 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Gregory quickly informed me as to my standing, and the fact that I didn't need representation at this time.
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Marissa Olsson, experienced Business, Car Accident attorney in Seattle, WA with 5 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,24
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
1.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
RUN. Literally didn't do anything. We gave her massive amounts of information, didn't answer emails or texts, and elongated my suffering hugely. I was literally helpless and half dead she pretended she was invested and disappeared. She should have her license removed.
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11 Apr, 2023 by Junior brooks
Best attorneys I have ever worked with in my life.
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19 Apr, 2022 by Jimmy harris
Will has been our attorney for several small businesses over about 5 years. He is thorough, knows his stuff, and gets back to you quickly when you have urgent issues. I highly recommend him.
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Janelle Nicole Bailey, experienced Car Accident, Personal Injury attorney in Seattle, WA with 4 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
18,24
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
1.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2024 by Nichole kyrkos
Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2021 by Nichole kyrkos
Google Maps
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07 Sep, 2019 by Feb
I had a business matter I needed help with. Janelle was prompt, professional, but also very caring. She exceeded my expectations when it came to communication, empathy, and results. Janelle will be my “go to lawyer “for any legal matters I may have in the future.
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Michael E Withey, experienced Car Accident, Civil Rights attorney in Seattle, WA with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,29
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Feb, 2014 by Robert locke
This attorney has a very promising and "Hope Raising" website. He touts that he "Fights for the Little Guy". I am disabled in my 50's, can't afford my prescribed medications and the State of Washington has RAPED my Constitutional rights. His office said they are unable to help me at this time. He had a movie made about him regarding the 99' WTO protests and the false arrests I guess if your not worth of a movie deal you are not worthy of his representation!!
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20 Oct, 2010 by Diem
Mike represented me in a case that was extremely contentious and long drawn. From the moment he came on board, he alleviated my concerns at having to deal with the opposing counsels' tactics. Mike's dedication to his clients is unsurpassed in more ways that I can articulate. He is tenacious in his representation of his clients, he is protective of his clients' interests, and he is committed and skillful in getting the best results for them. In short, Mike's experience coupled with his integrity and compassion that few others can compete with are just a few reasons why I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Mike.
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Aaron Dean Bigby, experienced Insurance, Personal Injury attorney in Seattle, WA with 3 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,08
star star star star star
3.3/5
Avvo
3.3
3 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Dec, 2020 by Victoria
Very glad I hired this attorney! Very generous with time, above and beyond service! Won our case. He is like a detective. He knows his law! And he knows how to approach the judge and get the right outcome for his clients.
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19 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
My decision to hire and work with Aaron was based on my need for an attorney who could clearly guide me through an employment law case with many facets. Because the case involved former employees, government agencies, and issues of indemnification, I needed an attorney who would be very conscientious of each decisions impact on the next stage of the case. I found Aaron's work to be well-researched, his decision making guidance useful and his court room presence reassuring. I highly recommend Aaron and his staff.
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02 Mar, 2010 by Adissatisfiedcustomer
My experience using Aaron Bigby as an attorney was negative: -Aaron made some decisions regarding my case without consulting me first. -Aaron was thorough and detail oriented when researching and preparing information I did not request. -Aaron shared details of my case with another person without my permission; he was also loquacious about his other clients ongoing cases when talking to me. -Aaron was not responsive to my repeated requests to keep me apprised of what was happening in my case.
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Charles N. Berry, experienced Car Accident, Litigation attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
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0.0/5
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Gemma N Zanowski, experienced Car Accident, Civil Rights attorney in Seattle, WA with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,15
star star star star star
1.0/5
Google Maps
1.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2024 by Nichole kyrkos
Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2021 by Nichole kyrkos
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Micah Ryan Steinhilb, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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David Michael Reeve, experienced Appeals, Car Accident attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Thomas Nedderman, experienced Civil Rights, Litigation attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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John R Vaughey, experienced Car Accident, Litigation attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Jane Jessica Matthews, experienced Insurance, Personal Injury attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Todd M. Nelson, experienced Business, Class Action attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Ferhad Ullah Sultani, experienced Civil Rights, Consumer Protection attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Dana Andrew Ferestien, experienced Business, Litigation attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Richard L Anderson, experienced Personal Injury, Sexual Harassment attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Francis Stanley Floyd, experienced Litigation, Personal Injury attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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John Michael Graham, experienced Car Accident, Personal Injury attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Carl-Erich Kruse, experienced Litigation, Medical Malpractice attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Javier Ortiz, experienced Car Accident, Child Custody attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Kenneth M Odza, experienced Insurance, Personal Injury attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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David Lawrence Hennings, experienced Personal Injury, Wrongful Death attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Mallory Colleen Allen, experienced Medical Malpractice, Personal Injury attorney in Seattle, WA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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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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