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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
Simplemente los mejores
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
Great service
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Jonathan gannecilli
Did a great job ! Kept me in the loop about everything ! Got my cases dismissed no problem !
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19 Sep, 2024 by Trisha brutus
Maria and Cheyenne helped my transition to be so smooth, they were professional and great with my case. 10/10 recommended!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Jay harker
Matthew and his staff were amazing. They kept my wife and I informed throughout the process. And the outcome of our case was very favorable. We highly recommend
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31 Oct, 2024 by E.m. reynolds
Best ticket lawyer ever!!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Jay hancock
Scott did a wonderful job on my speeding ticket and was great at keeping me advised on how my case was progressing with a great outcome thanks again
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29 Oct, 2024 by Nic wesselius
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09 Nov, 2024 by Cheryl purfeerst
Raghedi Law LLC was great to work with. They handle our case promptly. Stayed in contact with us throughout the whole process. Took the stress off of the whole situation. We will definitely use them again, if needed. Highly recommend!!
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01 Nov, 2024 by Michael green
Chris was great vary professional and vary thorough and communicated every step of the way. I would defiantly recommend him.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Haseeb770 haseeb7770
Mr. Chris’s Law office is the best. One thing I like most they respond right away, Not like other law offices you just keep leaving the messages they never respond. God bless him and his team🌹
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18 Oct, 2024 by Bianca shillingford
Immigration attorneys are a dime a dozen but if you’re looking for quality work, an attorney who is patient, understanding and most importantly knowledgeable then you should give Jude Law a call. You’ll meet an immigration attorney who genuinely cares AND does amazing work. Attorney Jude and her team goes above and beyond and gets the job done. The immigration process can be confusing but she ensures that you are aware of and understand all of your options in order for you to make an informed decision.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Mert sayın
Jude is an excellent lawyer. They were very attentive throughout my Green Card process. They expedited my case, and what was supposed to take 4 years was completed in 1.5 years, and my Green Card was approved. I highly recommend them. They will fight for you to win. I am very grateful to them and their team, and I am very happy to have worked with them.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Alaqua gordon
I’m really grateful and happy that I could put my trust in Jude law, to help me get my cases approved, I’m so happy and I loved working with them, they made me feel comfortable, so easy going, they listened and we communicated together all the time, while working with them I didn’t feel like I was left alone, not once, they were helping me every step of the way, I appreciate that and I loved working with them, thanks for helping me getting my case approved. 10/10 recommendation.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Meera pradeep
Eric is an amazing lawyer!! He explained every step thoroughly and is easy to communicate with, at any time of the day which meant a lot. He’s been so professional and helpful throughout this entire process, I’m so glad I listened to the reviews and chose him!!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Henry merino
Eric Matheny is very friendly and relatable but above all he is one of the most knowledgeable, detailed, hard working and quickest people in his field. He wouldn't stop until he got me the best solution possible. I would definitely recommend him to anyone. Thanks again Eric.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Emmanual rogers
The Law Offices of Eric M. Matheny, P.A. I want to seriously thank you for the level of professionalism and efficiency you displayed and you took care of all my needs almost immediately!! I’m a Disabled Veteran that suffers from major anxiety and Eric made sure I had nothing to worry about if you are in the Miami Beach area and need legal assistance this is the man to call!! I’m so serious please seek out The Law Offices of Eric M. Matheny, P.A. you will not be disappointed.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Robert felix
Great service, really listens and helps clients definitely would recommend
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02 Oct, 2024 by Jessbeingme
The best lawyer. The quickest process. Will recommend every time.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Dana benson
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07 Nov, 2024 by Joshua
Finally got my case closed and they did a wonderful job always answering me questions in a timely manner. Im very pleased with my service with them and would highly recommend using them. I had a bit of issue with high doctor costs, and they made the final settlement negotiations a bit difficult. If you get in an accident, I recommend calling this group asap and asking what doctors they have worked with first to see if you can get recommended good doctors that can help your negotiations go smoother. I loved their text service as well. I would text my case manager all my questions and she would respond in a timely manner. They are also really empathetic, which was helpful when the stress of not knowing was high.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Jacqueline winch
Although it seemed like forever before the final settlement, in the end, it was well worth the wait. Craig fought hard, advocating for me and I am more than satisfied and grateful for that extra effort that paid off. After all the mental trauma from the crash, I can finally put it all behind me with a life altering settlement.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Mei canjie
Very good win
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16 Sep, 2024 by Samantha penar
Professional and easy to use for notary services
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12 Sep, 2024 by Evan reuter
Very friend and very responsive
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28 Jul, 2024 by Dennis godoy
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31 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Fantastic local lawyer that is so accommodating and accessible. Highly recommend.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Buddy husic
The Law Office of Kelly Hoyt did an outstanding job handling my case. Kelly is very professional, knowledgeable and responsive. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for legal representation.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Chris ackerknecht
I would highly recommend Kelly to anyone in need of adoption services. Her knowledge and attention to detail is beyond compare.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Michael caras
Eric Pacy and Colby Macdonald along with their team are top notch! They have completed closings for dozens of my clients in the pass and they always make it a smooth and timely transaction. Their availability and efficient communication is above and beyond. Thank you!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Ryan richards
Kayla was very helpful and very responsive! And the closing was made easy with everything explained clearly
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05 Sep, 2024 by Josh lopez
I had the pleasure of working with Eric and Kayla on two deals, one contingent on the sale of another. Eric and team did a fantastic job with communication, and assisting in the close on a challenging situation with multiple delays. I look forward to working with them in the future.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Ashley jewell
I needed a personal injury attorney after I was involved in a car accident in Hamilton County, Ohio. When my first attorney took a job with the County and could no longer represent me in court, he recommended The Richards Firm and Rhys Richards. Hiring Rhys was a great decision—the transition was seamless. He quickly got up to speed on my case and helped me achieve the resolution I deserved. Throughout the process, I felt informed and at ease, knowing my case was in competent hands. I highly recommend The Richards Firm for personal injury cases!
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27 Aug, 2024 by James unger
My daughter and I were in an automobile accident in October of 2020 in Fairfield ,Ohio and my daughter had some injuries. I reached out to Rhys Richards at The Richards Firm for legal advice on protecting my daughter and myself from overwhelming medical bills. Rhys Richards did not disappoint he filed suit and protected my daughter’s medical rights and mine as well. Rhys was very professional,prompt, and even gave us his cell number. The settlement that Rhys obtained for my daughter exceeded our expectations! Rhys Richard’s has been a continued Sponsor and Supporter of Christians Corn Stand Jam a charity I run and I see Rhys providing Students College scholarships in our community. That goes a long way with me if you have an injury please give The Richards Firm a call and ask for Rhys Richards Sincerely James Unger
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24 Aug, 2024 by Mary
I was involved in an auto accident in SouthWesternOhio and was in need of a good attorney. Rhys was far more than a “good” attorney . Rhys proved to be an OUTSTANDING attorney.He displayed a sincere desire to help resolve my issue from the beginning to the end. When the insurance company low balled me Rhys filed suit in my behalf resulting in my receiving the compensation I deserved. I highly recommend Rhys. He embodies the trust, dependability, tenacity and sincere desire to bring a favorable outcome to the legal process. Thank you Rhys Richards. Excellent job!!
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28 Jul, 2024 by Gustavo galvan
I recieved great advice and help in the most difficult times in regards to my property. Thank you for consultation 'Alexandria', Very helpful!
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26 Jul, 2024 by Volodymyr tilnoy
"Definitely recommend this firm, they will go above and beyond for you!"
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03 Jul, 2024 by Mohsin
He is a Gem I do believe that I’m in a right hand he has a good communication skills & very convincing tone. God bless him. I recommend him 100%.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Anita vickery
Lance and Paula are great. They work hard and are very communicative and very knowledgeable.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Kimberly elgin
Ms Paula was very kind and informative.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Heather brady
Lance and Paula are THE BEST! THEY TOOK THE WORRY OUT OF THE WHOLE PROCESS!!
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12 Jul, 2024 by Bertha villaserñor
When I needed legal advice, Wolfson & Leon provided clear guidance. Their expertise in personal injury law is unmatched, and they go above and beyond to protect their clients’ interests.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Marjosebith guerra
Exceptional legal representation from Wolfson & Leon! Their team went above and beyond to ensure my rights were protected and that I received fair compensation for my injuries. Highly recommend their services to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Jennifer guerrero
I had a wonderful experience with Wolfson & Leon. Their team of personal injury attorneys is top-notch and guided me through every step of the legal process. I am extremely satisfied with the outcome of my case. Highly recommend!
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29 Nov, 2023 by Ryan paul
Troy Moore was extremely helpful to my family during very difficult times. After my father passed, he guided us through the challenging and confusing probate process. When my mother passed a year later, he again provided excellent help and support with our estate issues. Like most people, I had no idea how to settle my parents' accounts and deal with all the other legal issues involved when someone dies, so I cannot thank Troy enough for his work and support. He was always available to answer questions, clearly explained everything that we needed to do, and was always prompt and efficient with everything. I highly recommend consulting with Mr. Moore for any estate planning and related problems!
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23 Nov, 2023 by Malick geraldo
Thanks for helping me with my paperwork. Process was smooth and definitely will recommend you.
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18 Nov, 2023 by Mary carmona-gomez
He be published a video that gives wrong information about survivorship.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Kristi
I met with Alicia (I believe... over a year ago) regarding some adoption questions. She was professional, courteous, and very helpful. When it came time to adopt and I had been given a list of attorneys, she was on the list. Of course I chose her and I'm glad I did. Top notch, prompt, efficient, friendly, you name it! It was such a smooth adoption! Thank you Alicia!! Highly recommend. FYI.. Her office is right near the water in downtown Edmonds. Pack a picnic when you visit her office!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Tyler patterson
Alicia Kikuchi was a breath of fresh air in an otherwise long and stressful process. Professional, courteous and kind! Thank you Alicia!!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Kyong chon
Alicia Kikuchi Law Firm, PLLC has provided the best professional yet flexible service when it comes to clients needs. All my questions were met and any contingency were looked at immediately.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Matt s
Stephen prepared a revocable trust, powers of attorney, pour over will, and health care directives. He is very knowledgeable about writing these to stand up to scrutiny later on and he is knowledgeable about tax implications for an individual or estate. Easy to work with. Reasonable pricing. Will continue to work with him on future needs.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Christine oakley
Stephen and the Carpenter & Lewis staff have been excellent with the formation of my PLLC and small business needs. Thankful for their expertise and professionalism.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Scott halseth
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09 Oct, 2024 by Munazza haq
I was referred to this firm from a friend of mine who was very happy with them and their service. My daughter and I have the pleasure of working with them and now also my husband. We are very pleased with the friendly staff and the excellent results of Jordan Taylor. I will always recommend this firm to anyone who needs this type of service. Thank you Mr. Taylor and staff.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Kristy miller
In my experience with Jordan Taylor and his staff, I was treated very well and they were beyond helpful with my personal and legal situations. I had been in a terrible motorcycle accident the year prior and they were helping with the repercussions from that. I had also just lost my only son and they were very empathetic. I would highly recommend them.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Anthony mcfarland
Incredibly understanding and patient, went above and beyond to get me a fair settlement.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Mary
Finding ourselves in a complicated Family law case, with limited funds, we were referred to Dan. Shocked and beyond pleased doesn't begin to describe how responsive and knowledgeable he was out of the gate! You never had to wait, worry, and wonder. He always responded and did everything he can to help you, while explaining it in terms we could understand and AFFORD! BLESS YOU DAN EXNER LAW FIRM!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Mary
Call after Call, appt. after appt. resulted in frustration and disappointment that should've been a cut and dried due diligence but due to lack of money, I wasn't being heard until Dan. He instantly listened, put things rightly in motion with the court, and was beyond amazing and caring. I cannot recommend him enough and be more grateful for restoring faith in the justice system!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Cynthia ramirez
Maura Falk was very attentive to my needs and was very helpful and thorough with my case. I got exactly what I wanted and I'm very happy that the whole process was made easy for me.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Mathew stockstad
Amazing personable care.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Zakiya bell-rogers
Gives back to the community and very helpful. The office is lovely
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08 Jul, 2024 by Taylor edwards
I cannot thank Barbara enough for her help in my personal injury case. She truly cares for her clients and goes above and beyond. I highly recommend!
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14 Jun, 2024 by Lori alyea
Such a relief to hand over your problems to a group that take care of you in a respectful and pleasant way .. you can’t beat that feeling!! I’ve already referred Glaesman Law to a friend last week!!
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07 Jun, 2024 by M love
Very professional and efficient. I would recommend their firm.
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05 Apr, 2024 by Cathy m
I'm BEYOND GRATEFUL FOR LUCUS and PAM. On our first phone call. Lucus put my mind at ease. Moving forward every suggestion that Lucus made worked out for a positive outcome. If you are looking for a safe, responsible and get the job done law firm this is it!! Many Thanks to Glaesman Law Firm!!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Bri
Amanda Kazzi is the best lawyer in Florida, she’s very respectful and knowledgeable about all cases, she has done above and beyond with my case. Thank you Amanda and her team for being so supportive of my case!!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Shadowmurk420
Amanda was very helpful in court and I'm very glad I had her as my attorney. If I ever need another attorney I will definitely be calling her. Thank you again Amanda 🙂
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06 Aug, 2024 by John smith
I was going through a divorce and had been working with another lawyer for about 6 months. Needless to say, they were not helping progress my case, they were charging me out the wazoo and there seemed to be no end in sight, so I started to look for another lawyer. I found Amanda Kazzi by looking on Google for lawyers that had good reviews and she did not disappoint. Her flat rate was a breath of fresh air and her personalized approach to my case is what got me through it with the best possible outcome. Going through a divorce is stressful enough. Go with a lawyer you can trust. Amanda Kazzi is that person.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Isaiah b
I’d recommend any and everyone 10 times over again to This Law Firm. Attorney Sean Taylor was very diligent, persistent, understanding, and VERY Professional in every matter of this case. As a male, I had doubts about securing full custody of my daughter because of courts typically favoring women, but we went in there and I came out with Sole custody of my child. I couldn’t be happier and I’ll ALWAYS come back to him if I need anything at all. God Bless
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16 Aug, 2024 by Chase oswald
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21 Jul, 2024 by Holly brasher
Sean Taylor is an excellent attorney and person. He will take care of you like family!
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04 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
She has worked for me since several years ago. Always fight for what is the best for me. Also, charges very reasonable amount.
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29 Apr, 2024 by Gabriel salazar-servent
It is with great pleasure to leave a heartfelt review for Ms. Parastoo. Recently, Ms. Parastoo represented me in a Family Civil court case; she was sociable, curious, tactful, empathetic, and solution oriented. Within a matter of weeks on hiring Ms. Parastoo services - she diligently researched for possibilities to my case, by consulting with her mentors, getting all the cards on the table and proposing the best possible solution. During the court case hearing, she was amicable, professional, firm, and informed. Giving way for a simple [1...2...3] solution. My personal experience with Ms. Parastoo has left me with a feeling of regret. Regretting not hiring her services sooner! Peak Legal is an efficient legal team with great staff personnel ready and willing to provide assistance. I cannot endorse Ms. Parastoo's services enough. Should you require any legal representation for your problems; Peak Legal under Ms. Parastoo's leadership should be your first option. Gabriel Salazar Servent
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29 Apr, 2024 by Bianca gonzalez
I hired a previous company that took OVER A YEAR to even start my process and I literally mean START. I couldn't even get my attorney to answer the phone! I had no idea what was going on with my case at all and I was livid! Parastoo became my lawyer and literally got my entire case handled IN MY FAVOR in about 4 months! When I say she is on the ball I mean it ! I was updated bi weekly and copied on every single email correspondence. She handled my case so efficiently that I will never even consider another attorney. Even if her price tripled she's worth every cent! I appreciate her her and her staff for taking care of me and my family with such care. You have a client forever.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie parker
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03 Sep, 2024 by Martha smolen
It's been great working with the Family Estate Planning Law Group. They are very knowledgeable and have been so helpful to our extended family around trust planning, inter-generational planning and estate management. We all feel lucky to have them as partners and feel like our estate and future is in great hands. Thank you!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Gayle maganzini
We have found everyone at Family Estate Planning to be knowledgeable, courteous, caring and thorough. It is easy to set up appointments and they follow up to make sure everything is in order.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Jeremie woodall
Dasher Law changed my life. I worked with Catherine Smith and through a very difficult processes she was able to provide the guidance and recommendations to allow me to move forward. I can not recommend Dasher Law highly enough. They care about their clients are take a kind (yet assertive) approach to making sure the best outcome is achieved. Amazing team and organization.
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13 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I am so thankful that Lindsey was my attorney. Lindsay and her team made an incredibly difficult time so much easier to manage. I wanted things to be as amicable as possible and I know I found the right person who cared about family as much as I did. She is as kind and empathetic as she is organized and smart. She did better for me than I could have hoped and would refer her to anyone.
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17 Feb, 2023 by Traci hord
I had the pleasure of working with Catherine Smith during a difficult time in my life. Her knowledge and experience was exceptional, but her compassion for me as her client was something that outweighed all of her gifts. I highly recommend her for any legal needs you may have. Catherine will not only represent you, she will support you every step of the way.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Jing tian
I had a chance to talk to Nathalie Jackson. She gave me really good advice. Very professional and knowledgeable. I recommend Howe.Law Injury.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Brandon watkins
Natalie Jackson is an awesome attorney. I have family and friends who have received amazing results from her representation and Howe & Associates. Take it from me, you will be satisfied.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Mia cowan
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09 Aug, 2024 by Christina aguilar
Knowledgeable, helpful, and trustworthy legal services
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02 Aug, 2024 by Choochoo cutie
Annemarie is an incredibly dedicated professional who always puts her clients' needs first. Her outstanding efficiency and commitment to her work make her a truly valuable asset.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Rebeka reyes
Ms. Josephine Norton was the attorney assigned to my case. She was very professional, caring, patient, and thorough. The communication was excellent and I would definitely recommend Merel family law services to anyone in the future!
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07 May, 2024 by Sarah
I retained Shane Henry and he was upfront from the beginning and did not sugar coat expectations and cost. Communication was amazing with him and Amy their paralegal. They work very quickly and you see all communication with opposing counsel which I did not get from the attorney I had prior to retaining him. I got everything I wanted and I owe that to good counsel. I was able to get full custody which was best for my child. It was amazing. If I have to go back to court in the future, I will retain Shane. You will not regret going with Shane! If you are unsure, read the google reviews and do a consult. You will get exceptional service.
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14 Apr, 2024 by Ernest maina
I really appreciate Shawna Baker Esq and her team, they were very thorough and kept me updated with my case, it was a privilege to be represented by her and her team, I highly recommend her.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Jan starke
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What an Adoption Lawyer Can Do for You

An adoption lawyer specializes in navigating the legal complexities of the adoption process, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved - the adoptive parents, birth parents, and the child - are protected. They assist families through the different types of adoption, such as domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, and private adoptions. Adoption lawyers ensure that the adoption process complies with state, federal, and international laws, and handle any legal issues that may arise during the process, such as terminating parental rights, conducting home studies, and finalizing the adoption.

If you're looking to adopt or if you're a birth parent considering placing your child for adoption, an adoption lawyer can guide you through the legal requirements and ensure the process goes smoothly.

When Should I Hire an Adoption Lawyer?

You should consider hiring an adoption lawyer in the following situations:

  • Private or independent adoption: If you’re adopting a child directly from the birth parents without the involvement of an adoption agency, a lawyer is essential to draft and review all legal documents, including consent forms and parental rights termination agreements.
  • Foster care adoption: If you’re adopting a child from foster care, a lawyer can help navigate the legal process, ensure the child’s eligibility for adoption, and represent you in court to finalize the adoption.
  • Stepparent or relative adoption: If you’re adopting a stepchild or a relative, a lawyer can assist in terminating the parental rights of the biological parent and ensure the adoption is completed legally and efficiently.
  • International adoption: International adoptions are complex, involving multiple layers of laws from the U.S. and the child’s birth country. A lawyer can help navigate immigration requirements and ensure compliance with international treaties like the Hague Convention.
  • Contested adoptions: If a birth parent changes their mind about the adoption or there is a dispute over parental rights, a lawyer can represent you in court and ensure that the adoption proceeds legally.
  • Adoption for same-sex couples: If you're a same-sex couple looking to adopt, a lawyer can help ensure that your adoption complies with state laws and that both parents have equal legal rights to the child.
  • Birth parent representation: If you’re a birth parent considering adoption, a lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, help you understand the legal implications of terminating parental rights, and ensure that your decision is legally sound.

Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help avoid legal complications and ensure that the adoption is legally finalized as smoothly as possible.

What Does an Adoption Lawyer Do?

An adoption lawyer provides a variety of legal services, ensuring that the adoption process is completed in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Filing legal paperwork: Adoption lawyers handle all the necessary paperwork, including petitions to terminate parental rights, consent forms, and final adoption decrees. They ensure that the adoption is in line with state, federal, and international laws.
  • Conducting home studies: Some adoptions require a home study to evaluate the prospective adoptive family. While a social worker usually conducts the study, a lawyer can ensure that the process complies with legal requirements and that the report is submitted correctly.
  • Terminating parental rights: Lawyers assist in terminating the legal rights of the biological parents, either voluntarily through signed consent or involuntarily through court proceedings if necessary.
  • Representing clients in court: Adoption lawyers represent adoptive parents, birth parents, or other parties in court hearings to finalize the adoption or resolve disputes.
  • Navigating international adoption laws: For international adoptions, a lawyer helps ensure that all legal requirements, both in the U.S. and the child’s home country, are met, including securing the child’s visa and citizenship.
  • Providing legal advice: Adoption lawyers guide clients through each step of the adoption process, advising them on their rights and obligations, as well as any potential legal issues that may arise.
  • Drafting post-adoption agreements: In some cases, especially open adoptions, a lawyer can help draft post-adoption agreements that specify the level of contact between the adoptive and birth parents.

How Are Adoption Lawyers Paid?

Adoption lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the adoption and the time involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: Many adoption lawyers charge a flat fee for handling the entire adoption process. This is common for straightforward adoptions, such as stepparent or foster care adoptions, where the legal work is relatively predictable.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex adoptions, such as contested or international adoptions, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Retainer: In cases where the adoption process may take longer or involve more legal work (e.g., termination of parental rights or court disputes), a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on the case.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, so you understand the total cost of the adoption and any additional expenses that may arise during the process.

How Much Does an Adoption Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an adoption lawyer depends on the type of adoption and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:

  • Stepparent or relative adoption: Legal fees for these types of adoptions typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on whether the adoption is contested or requires a court hearing.
  • Domestic private adoption: The legal fees for a private adoption usually range from $5,000 to $10,000, including drafting documents, terminating parental rights, and finalizing the adoption in court.
  • International adoption: International adoptions are generally more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the adoption and the child’s country of origin.
  • Contested adoption: If the adoption is contested and involves court disputes, legal fees may range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the length and complexity of the court proceedings.

In addition to lawyer fees, adoptive parents should also be aware of additional costs such as court filing fees, home study fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).

Top Questions to Ask an Adoption Lawyer

Before hiring an adoption lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with adoptions?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience with the specific type of adoption you’re pursuing, whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, or stepparent adoption.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or hourly rate and ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in your adoption.
  3. What are the legal requirements for my adoption?
    Ask the lawyer to explain the legal steps involved in your adoption and any specific requirements that may apply to your case, such as home studies or parental consent.
  4. How long will the adoption process take?
    Adoption timelines can vary depending on the type of adoption, so ask the lawyer for an estimate of how long the process will take, including any potential delays.
  5. What are the common challenges in adoption cases?
    Ask about any potential legal challenges that could arise during the adoption process and how the lawyer plans to address them.
  6. Will I need to go to court?
    Depending on the adoption, you may need to attend court hearings. Ask the lawyer whether your presence will be required and what to expect during these hearings.
  7. Can you help with post-adoption issues?
    Ask the lawyer if they can assist with any post-adoption issues, such as obtaining the child’s birth certificate, finalizing the child’s U.S. citizenship (for international adoptions), or drafting post-adoption contact agreements.

How to Check the Credibility of an Adoption Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable adoption lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:

  • Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions on their record.
  • Look for adoption experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in adoption law and have experience handling cases similar to 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 their experience with the lawyer.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on adoption cases.
  • Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for lawyers who are members of adoption-focused organizations like the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys (AAAA), which can indicate their expertise in this field.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your first consultation with an adoption lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Information about the child and birth parents: Provide any available information about the child you’re adopting (e.g., age, country of origin, current living situation) and the birth parents, if applicable.
  • Adoption preferences: Be clear about the type of adoption you’re pursuing - whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, or private - and discuss any preferences you have regarding the child’s age, background, or special needs.
  • Legal documents (if applicable): If you’ve already begun the adoption process or have signed any agreements, bring copies of all relevant legal documents, such as consent forms or agency agreements.
  • Questions about the adoption process: Prepare a list of questions about the legal steps involved in your adoption, potential timelines, and any concerns you may have about the process.
  • Financial considerations: Be ready to discuss your budget for legal fees and any additional costs, such as home studies, court fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for your adoption journey.

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