Although their website explicitly states, "we offer free phone consultations," I was informed my consultation "must be in person," so I drove 80 miles round trip for a 1:00 p.m. consultation offered through my EAP benefits--and walked out roughly 18 minutes later, shaken and appalled by the experience.
I arrived at 12:55 p.m. to find the front door locked. After standing there waiting, I finally called the office at 1:02 to see if anyone was actually there. When I was finally let in at 1:05, I was told, "Mark's lunch is running late." Not a great first impression, but the consultation itself was far worse.
Before I could fully explain my situation or ask the questions I had printed out to ask, Mr. Peron repeatedly interrupted me and kept pushing legal action I was not seeking. More than once, he aggressively insisted he could "file a suit against my employer today," despite the fact that I had verbally indicated repeatedly that I would not do such a thing. He incorrectly claimed my employer needed to issue me a reimbursement (not true in garnishment cases), and seemed far more interested in manufacturing a paying case than in listening, assessing the facts, or offering sound legal guidance.
This was not a professional consultation. This was a pressure pitch for billable hours. I was talked over, rushed, dismissed, and treated like an opportunity rather than a person asking for knowledgeable advice. After less than 15 minutes in the office, I calmly gathered my things and walked out without saying a word.
The office itself only added to the poor impression. It is rundown, smells strongly of mothballs, and does not project professionalism or competence.
I will not return, and I would strongly caution anyone considering Norman E. Rouse, Collins, Webster & Rouse, P.C. to look elsewhere. read more
