Gene Carson Brucker, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Bloomington, IL with 7 reviews
Lawyer credibility
rating system
LCRS
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.
Below Average 8,79
Is this your profile? Claim it for free in just a few minutes!

Gene Carson Brucker

405 W Front St Ste A, Bloomington, IL

star star star star star
1.9 / 5
Avvo
1.9
info
Avvo rating
7 Reviews
Data reflects the status as of the latest update. Updates are typically done monthly.

License

License ID number: -

Licensed in: -

Year admitted: -

Last reviews

See All Reviews
Overall rating
star
star star star star star
1.9 7 reviews
Avvo 1.9

Perry

star star star star star
04 Feb, 2025
Gene represented me when I was going through a divorce and a child custody battle for a few months before I requested a letter of relinquishment be written. I echo all the 1 and 2 star reviews. Waste of money and uses outdated practices for the state of IL. Gene wanted me to start paying child support to my ex when we didn’t even know where she was working or how much she was making at the time but advised me to start paying child support as “good faith” to potentially make me look better in court. I’m in a wheelchair and a father of 2 boys going through a custody battle and Gene props his feet on the table leans back in chair and tells me not to take offense to this but it seems like my dad was making all my decisions. He had me fill out an outdated financial affidavit from 2016. The law firm owes me a refund from my retainer and still have not received it. Never received an itemized invoice for the months he represented me. I could go on and on and I’ve been waiting a year and a half to write this review. Take it from me and go elsewhere.
Read more Avvo

Anonymous

star star star star star
05 Jun, 2023
I can agree with another review listed here. He talks up a good game and that's all. He will not return phone calls, goes MIA, tells you you don't need to show up for court and doesn't bother to give ANY details of how it went. He suggested that I bring in a 3rd party, GAL so that my kids could consult with them on how they wanted visitation. That was $1000 and he never called them in to court. Total waste of time and money.
Read more Avvo

Jennifer

star star star star star
11 Feb, 2022
I met with Gene for a second opinion and found him to be very transparent, helpful, and relatable. He listened well, quickly comprehended the nature of my concerns, and was gracious. He not only gave me free advise, he encouraged me to stay the course with the attorney I was using, though he had every opportunity to steer me away and sell me on his services. I left feeling very encouraged I was on the right track and I very much appreciated his help.
Read more Avvo

Top review highlights

Pros
1
Transparent, helpful, and relatable in providing free advice
“He listened well, quickly comprehended the nature of my concerns, and was gracious. He not only gave me free advise, he encouraged me to stay the course with the attorney I was using, though he had every opportunity to steer me away and sell me on his services.”
2
Efficient in setting up child support
“He did a fine job of getting that setup. I have no complaints about that.”
Cons
1
Unresponsive and neglectful of follow-up matters
“Now that the support order is done and I overpaid the state, I tried to contact them to determine how to get a refund. I have yet to hear from his office regarding the matter and that wa”
2
Lack of legal expertise and professionalism
“The guy completely doesn't know Illinois law. Even the law updated in 2016 he didn't know. Absent twice at court and no reason! I called him many times but he turned off his phone.”
3
Disappearing and becoming belligerent when questioned
“When my case became ongoing, needing assistance from him was next to impossible. He would disappear for months a time and get belligerent when I questioned anything he did or did not do.”
4
Perceived bias against men's rights
“This attorney does not believe in mens rights, he talks a good game up front but when it comes down to it he will either tell you its best to settle because he cant discredit a GAL or he is to chicken to gonuo against a female attorney.”

Best lawyers in Bloomington, IL

See more
Nathan Bradford Hinch, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Bloomington, IL with 2 reviews
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.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
31 Dec, 2009 by Kathleen
Nate Hinch has provided me with solid advice and counsel on several legal matters for my small business. He is diligent in his research and provides honest answers...not necessarily what I had hope to hear, but an hinest assessment nonetheless. Nate is prompt is getting back to me unlike other attorneys I have used in the past where you may or may not get a response at all. I highly recommend this attorney.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 Dec, 2009 by Doug
Mr. Hinch helped with two different contracts: one for a real estate transaction commission for a contaminated property and the other for an independent contractor agreement. These both were very complicated agreements and Mr. Hinch responded quickly and accurately. I would recommend him for real estate agreements, general contracting, and environmental issues which I have also had him evaluate
Read more Avvo
See more
Stephen F. Wood, experienced Litigation, Personal Injury attorney in Bloomington, IL with 2 reviews
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.
39,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Jun, 2024 by Cassie mcgowan
Google Maps
star star star star star
01 Dec, 2019 by Rayne d.
Chips receptionist alone would be more then enough to win my loyalty. Wonderful people.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Charles Lynn Corwin, experienced Personal Injury attorney in Bloomington, IL with 2 reviews
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.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Jun, 2024 by Cassie mcgowan
Google Maps
star star star star star
01 Dec, 2019 by Rayne d.
Chips receptionist alone would be more then enough to win my loyalty. Wonderful people.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What Questions Should I Ask Before Hiring a Lawyer?

Hiring the right lawyer is crucial for the success of your case. Here are some important questions to ask during your initial consultation:

  1. What experience do you have with cases similar to mine?
    Ensure the lawyer has relevant experience in the specific area of law pertaining to your case.
  2. How do you charge for your services, and what are the estimated costs?
    Understand the fee structure, including hourly rates, flat fees, retainer fees, and any additional expenses.
  3. Who will be handling my case?
    Find out if the lawyer will handle your case personally or delegate tasks to other attorneys or paralegals.
  4. What is your approach to resolving cases like mine?
    Learn about their strategy, whether they prefer negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
  5. What potential outcomes can I expect?
    While no lawyer can guarantee results, they can provide an assessment of possible scenarios based on their experience.
  6. How will you communicate with me throughout the process?
    Establish expectations for updates, preferred communication methods, and response times.
  7. What is the expected timeline for my case?
    Get an estimate of how long the process may take from start to finish.
  8. Do you have references from past clients?
    Testimonials or references can provide insight into the lawyer's professionalism and effectiveness.
  9. What challenges do you foresee in my case?
    Understanding potential obstacles helps you prepare and sets realistic expectations.
  10. Are there alternative ways to resolve my legal issue?
    Discuss options like mediation, arbitration, or settlement to resolve the issue efficiently.

Can a Lawyer Represent Me in Courts Outside of Bloomington, Illinois?

Whether a lawyer can represent you in courts outside of your city or state depends on their licensure and the jurisdiction of the court:

  • Within the Same State:
    Lawyers licensed in a particular state can typically practice anywhere within that state, including all cities and counties. They can represent you in both state and federal courts located in that state.
  • Outside of Their Licensed State:
    If your case is in a different state, the lawyer must be licensed in that state to represent you. However, there are exceptions:
    • Pro Hac Vice Admission: An out-of-state lawyer can request special permission to represent a client in a specific case in another state. This requires filing a motion with the court and often working in conjunction with a local attorney.
    • Federal Courts: If your case is in federal court, a lawyer licensed in any state may be able to represent you, provided they are admitted to practice in that particular federal court.
  • International Representation:
    For cases outside the United States, different rules apply, and the lawyer may need to comply with the foreign country's legal requirements or collaborate with local counsel.

It's important to discuss your specific situation with the lawyer to determine if they can represent you in the desired jurisdiction and what steps may be necessary to do so.

How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer

Before hiring a lawyer, it's crucial to verify their credibility and ensure they're qualified to handle your case:

  • Verify Their License:
    Check with your state's bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and in good standing. Most state bar websites have an online directory for this purpose.
  • Experience and Specialization:
    Ensure the lawyer specializes in the area of law relevant to your case. Review their website, professional profiles, and case history.
  • Disciplinary Record:
    Look up any history of disciplinary actions or complaints through the state bar association's records.
  • Client Reviews and Testimonials:
    Read reviews on legal directories like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, Google, or Yelp to gauge client satisfaction and experiences.
  • Professional Memberships:
    Membership in professional organizations or specialty bar associations can indicate a commitment to their field and adherence to high ethical standards.
  • Awards and Recognitions:
    Honors from reputable organizations reflect expertise and a positive reputation in the legal community.
  • Consultation Assessment:
    Use the initial consultation to evaluate their communication skills, responsiveness, and willingness to address your concerns.
  • Ask for References:
    A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients who can speak to their abilities and professionalism.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your initial meeting with a lawyer, come prepared with:

  • Relevant Documents:
    Bring all documents related to your case, such as:
    • Contracts or agreements
    • Correspondence (emails, letters, texts)
    • Legal notices or court papers
    • Financial records (if applicable)
    • Evidence (photos, videos, receipts)
  • Written Summary:
    Prepare a concise written summary of your situation, including key dates, events, and parties involved. This helps the lawyer quickly understand the context.
  • List of Questions:
    Write down any questions you have about your case, the legal process, fees, or the lawyer's experience.
  • Financial Information:
    If your case involves financial matters, bring relevant documents like pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, or invoices.
  • Contact Information:
    Provide details of any witnesses or other parties relevant to your case, including their names and contact information.
  • Personal Identification:
    Bring a valid photo ID for verification purposes.
  • Pen and Notebook:
    Take notes during the consultation to remember important points discussed.
  • Budget Constraints:
    Be ready to discuss your budget and any financial limitations so the lawyer can provide appropriate guidance on fees and payment options.
  • Openness and Honesty:
    Be prepared to discuss your case candidly. Full disclosure allows the lawyer to give accurate advice and anticipate potential challenges.
Scroll to top