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Pros
As a result of the analysis of reviews about this lawyer, no significant pros were found.
Cons
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03 Jun, 2024 by Pierre hicks
The employee they’re always so nice and helpful
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26 Apr, 2024 by The cube man clips
Um people would rather not go here lol just sayin that's any prosecutors office to though .
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16 Apr, 2024 by Rosemarie schwartz
Very difficult to get prosecutors to call back. Very frustrating!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Brad n
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11 Mar, 2024 by Drema johnson
My call still hasn't been returned... And I called 1 1)2 ago
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Best lawyers in Fort Wayne, IN

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03 Feb, 2023 by Steve
Had some paperwork that needed attended too, he did it fast accurate, and affordable, Great staff to deal with as well.
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14 Apr, 2021 by Angela
Mr.Essex has been my attorney for a long time, at least 10+ years. He has always been dependable, upfront and honest, a plethora of knowledge and most importantly, caring. He's been there for my family every time we have needed him, everything from traffic violations to criminal law. He's never been judgemental, just honest. Mr. Essex, thank you for all the times you've helped my family and I out, you've never let us down! You are appreciated more than you know!
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26 Jul, 2018 by Rolando
If your looking for a great attorney Thomas is the man, I had a felony that I thought would never be erased well glad to say Thomas got it erased. JOB WELL DONE THOMAS THANKS. Sincerely Rolando
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10 Sep, 2019 by Molly
I can't say enough good things about Zachary and his staff at the office. I came into his office in quite a panic and he heard me talking with his secretary. He immediately came out to greet me and listened attentively to what was going on. I could tell that Zach and his team truly cared about my situation and were ready and eager to help. Zach jumped into action immediately pausing the tasks he was currently working on. He worked diligently and helped resolve the issue the within hours. From the moment I stepped in his office, Zach and his team made me feel at ease. Zachary is an incredible attorney who will handle your situation with care. I am truly grateful for everything Locke and Witte did for me that day.
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05 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Zach helped my family with our will. He also helped us with my parents estate. He spent a lot of time with us explaining the process during a very stressful time.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Katie
Shawn is a class act! She knows her stuff-policy, laws, how to argue for you. She never gives up! 5 stars!
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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 Fort Wayne, Indiana?

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.
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