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How to Check Reviews of Domestic Violence Attorneys in New York
How to Check Reviews of Domestic Violence Attorneys in New York
When you’re facing domestic violence charges in New York, finding the right attorney can make all the difference. You want someone who is experienced, knowledgeable, and will fight tirelessly for your rights. One important step in finding the best lawyer for your case is to check reviews from previous clients. Here’s a guide on how to do just that.
Why Reviews Matter
Attorney reviews give you valuable insight into what it’s like to work with a particular lawyer. They can tell you about the attorney’s:
- Communication skills: Does the lawyer keep clients informed and promptly return calls/emails?
- Professionalism: Is the attorney respectful, punctual, and organized?
- Expertise: Does the lawyer have a track record of success in domestic violence cases?
- Personality: Is the attorney compassionate, trustworthy, and easy to work with?
Of course, reviews are subjective and should be taken with a grain of salt. But they can still be a useful tool in narrowing down your options and finding the right fit for you.
Where to Find Attorney Reviews
There are several places you can look for reviews of domestic violence lawyers in New York:
1. Google
Start with a simple Google search of the attorney or law firm’s name. Check for any Google Reviews that come up. These tend to be more verified and reliable than some other review sites. Pay attention to the overall rating, number of reviews, and specific feedback from clients.
2. Avvo
Avvo is a popular directory that rates and profiles attorneys across the US. Look up the lawyer you’re considering and read their client reviews. Avvo verifies that reviewers are actual clients. The site also gives attorneys an overall rating based on their experience, professional achievements, and industry recognition.
3. FindLaw
FindLaw is another reputable online resource for finding and researching attorneys. Their directory includes client ratings and reviews for many lawyers. The reviews are sorted into categories like trustworthiness, responsiveness, and kept me informed, so you can quickly assess the attorney’s strengths and weaknesses.
4. LawInfo
LawInfo provides a free online directory of attorneys, including those who handle domestic violence cases in New York. Many of the lawyer profiles feature client reviews and ratings. You can see how many stars the attorney has overall and read detailed feedback from past clients.
5. Reddit
While Reddit isn’t exclusively for attorney reviews, it can still be a helpful resource. Try searching for the lawyer’s name on r/legaladvice or r/domesticviolence. See if anyone has mentioned their experience with that attorney. You can also make a post asking if anyone has worked with the lawyer you’re considering. Just take any anecdotal feedback with a grain of salt.
6. Quora
Like Reddit, Quora is a general Q&A platform rather than an attorney review site. But it’s still worth searching here to see if the lawyer you’re looking into has been discussed. People may have shared their experiences working with the attorney or asked for feedback about them. Just remember that anyone can post on Quora, so consider the source.
Tips for Evaluating Attorney Reviews
As you’re reading through reviews of domestic violence lawyers in New York, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider the source. Reviews on a lawyer’s own website or social media may be cherry-picked. Third-party sites like Avvo and FindLaw tend to be more objective.
- Look for patterns. A single negative review shouldn’t necessarily rule out an attorney. But if you see the same complaints coming up repeatedly, take note.
- Check the dates. An old review may not reflect the attorney’s current practice. Focus on the most recent feedback.
- Read between the lines. A lack of reviews can also be a red flag. It may mean the attorney is inexperienced or doesn’t have many satisfied clients.
Other Factors to Consider
While reviews can be informative, they shouldn’t be the only factor in choosing a domestic violence attorney. You should also consider:
- Experience: How long has the attorney been practicing? Do they have experience with domestic violence cases specifically?
- Availability: Will the lawyer be available to take your calls and answer your questions? Do they have time to give your case the attention it deserves?
- Comfort level: Do you feel comfortable talking openly and honestly with the attorney? Do they seem to understand your situation and goals?
- Cost: Can you afford the lawyer’s fees? Do they offer payment plans or sliding scale options?
Red Flags to Watch Out For
As you’re researching attorneys, be on the lookout for potential warning signs like:
- Unresponsiveness: If a lawyer takes days to return your calls or emails, that’s not a good sign. You need an attorney who will be communicative and attentive.
- Lack of specifics: If reviews are vague and don’t give any details about the attorney’s performance, they may not be legitimate.
- Pressure to hire: Be wary of attorneys who try to pressure you into hiring them on the spot. A good lawyer will understand that you need time to make this important decision.
- Unrealistic promises: If a lawyer guarantees a certain outcome, that’s a red flag. No attorney can promise specific results.
Making Your Decision
After you’ve read reviews and done your research, it’s time to make a decision. Schedule consultations with your top choices so you can get a feel for their personality and approach. Prepare a list of questions to ask, including:
- How many domestic violence cases have you handled?
- What are the possible outcomes of my case?
- How often will you update me on the status of my case?
- What are your fees and payment options?
Listen to your gut during these meetings. If something feels off, don’t ignore that instinct. You need to feel fully comfortable with and confident in your attorney.
Resources
For more information and support related to domestic violence, check out these resources:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- NY Courts Domestic Violence Resources
- NYC Domestic Violence Services
Remember, if you are in immediate danger, call 911. You are not alone in this. There is help and support available, both legally and emotionally. Take the time to find an attorney you trust to guide you through this challenging time.