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16 Feb, 2021 by Peggy lauer
21 Feb, 2020 by Sayayin kayosama
21 May, 2018 by Astrelle lucas
No longer in service.
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18 May, 2024 by Taylor
I couldn't have asked for a better laywer. Communication was seamless, keeping me informed every step of the way. I highly recommend Daniel Baker services to anyone in need of legal representation.
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31 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I pretty much never write reviews.
Baker Legal Services (just one guy, who does all the work himself), is everything you could want in a family law attorney. He answers his own phone and is generous with his time. His billing practices are beyond fair, and he's both very upfront about them and reasonable about payment plans. He's honest, compassionate, humane, conservative, intelligent, and honorable. My divorce was a complicated and traumatic one by anyone's standards; Daniel treated me kindly and fairly in a situation where it would have been easy to take advantage, and got a better resolution for my case than I or any of the professionals involved thought possible. Most importantly, he helped me reacclimate to normal life during a difficult period, simply by being consistent, humble, and real.
If you have pending litigation of any sort, I would recommend at least calling Baker Legal Services to see if he can help. I will trust Daniel Baker to handle any legal issue I have, and I'm not a trusting person.
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25 Mar, 2021 by Matthew
Mr. Baker gives lawyers a bad name. He gives bakers a bad name. He's dirty, dishonest, and he abuses children.
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26 Mar, 2017 by Corey
Atty Elizabeth Strand represented me in a case where I'd been charged with Felony Fleeing of a Peace Officer. The County offered a plea deal and I refused. I risked a year in prison and a $10,000 fine if we lost. She found a million holes in the prosecution and the Jury ruled on my behalf because of her. She also returns phonecalls in a timely manner.
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27 Aug, 2010 by Anonymous
Ms. Strand performed admirably for me. She was knowledgable and very kind when working with me. I would recommend her to anyone.
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28 Jul, 2010 by Paul
Elizabeth was very patient with me and took an extended period of time to explain all facits of the case to me. In the courtroom Elizabeth is a pro and is clearly respected by other attorneys and the judges.
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10 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
At first she seems sincere and determined to help me but that quickly turned into raking up extra unnecessary bills and invoices. She prioritized clients as paychecks, never responded to calls/texts/emails until the last possible second. She not only wasted thousands of my dollars but also years dragging on my divorce! I would have been better off defending myself!
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23 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
She is my sons attorney and she really cares about him. I know she does her job from the heart and fights for what's right. When everyone was trying to put me down and my lawyer was absent she really did and said what she could to stick up for me and not make me look like a terrible person or mother and also stuck by my sons side at the same time. Today was my sons birthday and he passed away and I had court today and had a lot on my mind and she really made me feel better like I'm worthy and not a piece of trash. She's a mother and I know a mother understands that we fight for our kids. Thank you so much Kristiana Gomez for today you have no idea how much it helped for this time of the year is hard on me and for seeing that I do love my children and I am trying and that I'm not a bad person and also that having a close family unit isn't a bad thing. Especially when your own and for understanding that's it's about my kids and what makes them happy emotionally and mentally. God bless you for your definatley an angel. EVERYONE HIRE KRISTIANA GOMEZ YOU CANT GO WRONG WHEN YOU DO.
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20 Mar, 2016 by Chris
I hired Kristy because I heard about how much she cares for her clients needs. She helped me fill out the paperwork that I needed to get done and when we went to court she made sure that I knew what was going to happen. She helped me to get sole custody of my daughter and now my ex is finally helping me out with the bills! Thank you Kristy!
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10 May, 2022 by Anna koleva
The worst experience with an attorney ever!! Gave us false advice - and then backed out on his words, even though 2 other people, including another attorney, were present on the conversation. We all heard the same thing. Because of his bad advise we lost a buyer, and took bunch of unnecessary actions. All in all, because of him we lost 70k.
Definitely do NOT recommend.
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21 Apr, 2020 by Alexander grasso
26 Jul, 2016 by Cari rincker
I have known Tim for several years through the NYC legal community and a lawyer networking group that I belong to. He is very professional and knowledgeable on tax law. I regularly refer clients his way knowing they will be in good hands. I have received great feedback from the clients who have worked with him.
I also presented with Tim on a wine and vineyard law panel for the National Business Institute and Tim presented on tax implication. His presentation was very well received and I recommend him for speaking engagements for tax law issues.
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23 Jan, 2023 by Lorena
Attorney Belanger has helped me so much during my still ongoing divorce. She has defended my legal rights every step of the way...even when I didn't know that I had any rights. Trustworthy, honest and extremely knowledgeable. I highly recommend Attorney Belanger.
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08 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Extremely slow to respond and fast to ask for money. Did not feel like she had my interests at heart, rather she was just going through the motions.
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19 Sep, 2019 by Jill
Brandie is amazing. Not only is she very knowledgable about family law, but she has the perfect demeanor for navigating family drama. She coached me throughout the process and helped me stay cool, calm and collected. She reassured me that things were constant moving forward and she was always available for questions via email or phone. Brandie's team went above and beyond and guided me through a very stressful relocation process. Her personality, demeanor, professionalism and knowledge made it so much easier. She also worked with me on my payments. I wish I could relocate her to upstate NY so she could be my attorney up here too! I very highly recommend her! THANK YOU BRANDIE!
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14 Jul, 2020 by Kathleen
Clint is one hell of an attorney!! He is trustworthy, cares about your wellbeing & does not drag his feet like so many others do. I had gone through several attorneys, I was losing my trust. Clint made me believe there are still honorable attorneys left in San Antonio. I am so happy I trusted & believed in Clint Lawson!!
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03 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Unfortunately, I've had a long and trying custody battle over a stretch of 10 plus years. I've dealt with a handful of attorneys over that time and Clint is far and away the best. He's understanding, direct, competent, and sincere. That last one is really a breath of fresh air. Mr. Lawson is currently working to help me get my daughter back (I'm the Managing Conservator) from the other parent who did not return her to me after Spring Break. I'm not sure where I'd be without his guidance.
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17 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Clint did not want to hear about a civil settlement with my spouse. He only cared about what he could use to hurt my spouse. While I want to divorce my spouse, I don’t want to run him down because we have minor children. Clint was not concerned with my children.
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23 Mar, 2022 by Sheldon
Worst family attorney in Texas. I retain McNutt as my attorney in October of 2021. McNutt move my case out Texas child support court and into Hays County Family Court. After paying McNutt Law Firm nearly 3000 dollars she then requested a motion to withdraw from my case on day 7 o March of 2022. She withdrew from supposedly for bad client and attorney relations. Basically she took my money and left me to defend myself with no specific reason at all. I got proof of everything I am writing. My advice to anyone is to not retain McNutt as your attorney in family court if you want a good outcome in your case. She may do some good work for some of her clients but not for all and my case proves that beyond reasonable doubt. I am a real person and I have proof to show that this is a bad law firm, especially if you value your money and expect a good outcome. Don’t end up like me. You might find yourself in the same situation if you retain Jacqueline R. McNutt as your attorney. I can prove my claim, reach out to me if you want to know more.
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19 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Mrs. McNutt fought to ensure my child was the only focus and prevented further personal vendetta from his mother.
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04 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Professional and very well versed with balancing family law issues and the emotional aspects facing her clients. I would recommend Mrs. McNutt to anyone needing a family law attorney.
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09 Oct, 2023 by R w
She is The Man
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25 May, 2021 by Akhila jael
I had a case a few years ago.
And the results were great.
She is an honorable litigant and one of the best in the area of her expertise.
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13 May, 2018 by Scott deo
She was an hour an a half late to court... Which put us at end of docket. The lawyers took it upon themselves to mediate terms of visitation an custody while we were waiting in the hall. Due to my lack of knowledge in the legal area, and out of desperation of wanting to see my daughter- I ignorantly agreed to terms that were very limited, I wish I had waited to go before the judge. ALSO- a month an a half later I recieved a letter from her office stating she filed to be removed from the case due to non payment. HOWEVER- I did pay her in full, and the day I did- I was never given a RECIEPT because someone in her office had backed up the printer and I would of had to wait quite awhile, she had said she would just email the RECIEPT to me. Which I never recieved!! DO NOT USE THIS ATTORNEY! SHE DOESNT CARE ABOUT YOU OR YOUR SITUATION. SHE ISNT TRYING TO HELP YOU!
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06 Jan, 2022 by Melinda rasco
18 Jan, 2021 by Mr.100 nofakelove
They are really good ppl
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17 Dec, 2015 by Eleanor davis
Only my experience as the parent of defendant, not defendants Opinion, my experience as an observer: Beware!! Brian's reputation will always come first, no matter what it takes. For my son, Brian not a winner and still saved reputation in Bay St. Louis, Ms. which is what matter in my opinion.
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19 Feb, 2013 by Carl
We retained Ms. Senentz and another attorney at the same firm to represent us in opposing a state's motion to change the placement of our foster child and to argue for our adoption petition. They were both thorough in their preparation and exceptionally professional in the courtroom. Following thirteen hours of testimony and arguments, the judge ruled in our favor. We could not be more pleased with the outcome, and attribute the result to the outstanding counsel we received. I would highly recommend Ms. Senentz for work in the field of family law, adoptions and foster care. She is the consummate professional, and is easy to work with.
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11 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
Very unhappy with a lackadaisical approach to case management and execution. Peggy came recommended for friendliness but in the end resulted in poor execution and a high number of hours charged for marginal execution of her duties.
Keep looking for a more well rounded attorney with a zest for their profession.
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14 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Peggy came to us with the highest recommendations and we were beyond satisfied with everything she brought to the table. Her knowledge of Florida family law is comprehensive and she went the extra mile to familiarize herself with our state's adoption laws as well.
With only 2 hours notice before our daughter was born we made contact with her and she set the wheels in motion that would bring our family together forever. Peggy never sugar coated anything and gave straight-forward, honest advice. From the first phone call to the day
of our finalization I felt supported and well informed about every step of the process.
Our hectic adoption was made far less stressful by dealing with someone as professional and well versed as Peggy. Her office staff was always polite and helpful. The only reason I marked
4/5 under responsiveness is due to the excellence of her services Peggy is a very busy lady with what I am sure is a rather large client base; I was clearly not the only one making demands of her time and attention but she always made sure to get back to me (even if it wasn't as fast as my new mom-in-progress nerves wanted) sometimes just to let me know there was no news yet, she never left me hanging. The personalized service I received ranged from Ms. Senentz using up her entire Saturday at the hospital with me waiting for my daughter to be discharged to meeting with me several times over the next two weeks as we pieced together the necessary paper work to satisfy all of the ICPC demands.
I truly cannot give enough praise to Peggy and everyone at the Clarie
Law Office, I felt like family and was treated that way.
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29 Dec, 2018 by Bill
I brought a very serious systemic issue like most people who come to an Attorney for consultation. I spent an hour talking about the issue only to have my money taken at the end and was told it's a problem and nothing she can do even though its in her field of expertise. She had no problem taking my money $250. This is a common practice that I have notice with attorneys throughout the US and we as the people who pay money need to inform others who might fall as a victim to attorneys who conduct themselves in this manner. It should be a crime to take people money knowing that no service was rendered. I understand we all need to eat, but do not waste people time who are being robbed the the system. I am not disgruntle but concerned that this seems more like a scam and it is putting people lives in jeopardy especially when they have little strength to tell there story over and over again. I would rate one star, but she was very courteous when taking my money.
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14 Nov, 2012 by Paul
The basis for my case involved the responsibility for developing a nuclear quality program in accordance with federal regulations for a U.S. company and then assisting senior management with its implementation. The quality deployment effort required total commitment throughout the company. Following my unjustifiable termination, I was referred to Ms. Anderson by a person that had engaged her for a similar case.
Ms. Anderson gained an understanding of the background in a very timely manner and set a clear approach for moving forward. Even at the early stages, it was clear she understood the rules and regulations in the nuclear industry. As my case evolved, she continuously kepted me informed and at appropriate times provided me with options. She was very good at keeping me focused and making sure the content level for supporting questions and answers was appropriate.
Ms. Anderson's negotiating expertise became very apparent during the final stages of the case. Not only did I receive a meaningful settlement, but more importantly I felt that my voice had been heard.
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12 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
Alene provided me with my options at each step in the case with enough information for me to weigh and feel relatively comfortable with my decisions (as comfortable as one can in these situations). She kept me informed and responded almost immediately to my phone calls and e-mails. We did not meet unnecessarily and in the meetings we had, Alene was well-prepared and focused. I was new to this type situation and asked many questions. I found her answers complete, helpful and, in the end, accurate. When the other party did not follow through as agreed (several times and once after we thought the case was settled), Alene communicated with them quickly and effectively. Finally, her fees were clearly explained and fairly applied. I did not go forth with a suit in court, but I can recommend Alene Anderson without reservation for securing a fair settlement.
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18 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Raegen to write a not very complicated agreement. Almost 3 months later I got a partly filled out agreement that seemed to be a form or template. And a bill for over $4000. I complained and she agreed to finish it for not much more. But I feel that the service I received was extremely expensive for the product.
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13 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
She is excellent. she is very sincere and enthusiastic. She asked a lot of good questions, wanted to understand my goals, and was completely supportive of my objectives. She told me much knowledge. She’s a high integrity professional.
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05 Oct, 2014 by Amy
Target represented me throughout a collaborative divorce and parenting plan that was occasionally technically difficult and occasionally emotional and occasionally greedy regarding division of assets. She was calm, clear-headed, yet personable and even the whole time. I annoy say enough positively about my experience with her. She knows the law, did not show one sign of being cutthroat and never fomented the parties. She reined me in a few times, and she reviewed everything from our mediated portion. Simply a great attorney.
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29 Jan, 2019 by Jen
Attorney Martone helped me through a very nasty custody battle with my ex husband. He was very diligent and helped guide me in the right direction. I cannot thank him enough.
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07 Mar, 2011 by Lonn
My letter to Joseph, still waiting on a repsonse from him:
Dear Joseph,
I wish to express my concerns about your last representation. In no way am I upset about the outcome of the recent custody conciliation. What I am very disappointed in is the total lack of guidance you had offered me when I had presented at your office in January. As a matter of fact, we never truly discussed the current situation in your office prior to the conciliation paperwork even being completed. I truly believe that had you took the time to go through my documents with me, and properly guided me as to the criteria for the request I was making, that we would have reached the same recommendation back in January that I am facing now.
I know that there are no guarantees in legal proceedings. I do expect proper guidance and representation a month before the fact when I present for it and not in a quick twenty minutes just before the custody conciliation is to take place and be left to defend myself. I view these circumstances as unprofessional conduct and expect more from such an honored attorney.
It is therefore I believe I should be entitled to reimbursement for some of the legal fees I have incurred. These proceedings could have been timed more effectively had you given this matter the attention it deserved for the fees I have submitted for your time and services.
.....In short, Joseph didn't have the time for the prior consult I scheduled with him and he just took my check and filed the papers without knowing a single fact. Once we did talk just twenty minutes before the conciliation (a month later), it was all so clear that Joseph initiated the action way to fast and just blew my time and money which was completely avoidable had he done things in the correct order. Why any lawyer would file a case before talking to his client is just beyond me????? I will be finding a new attorney..................
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19 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Ladona was slow to start, had several things going on at once. Did not answer calls at first. However, outcome was great and she is very fair. I will recommend her to others.
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13 Mar, 2018 by William parker
19 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
I would recommend this lawyer if you have plenty of money. He did an excellent job with the custody motion, however I was only able to use him until a hearing was scheduled, and had to proceed pro se. This lawyer requested a larger than normal retainer (due to my particular situation) and stated that when the retainer ran out, he would let me know before he started billing me. This did not happen and he billed me $8,000 beyond my retainer.
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22 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Cathy was very prompt to respond that she does not have the experience necessary in the area I was requiring help. I was impressed with her professionalism in on the matter.
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30 Jun, 2024 by Flynna80
Attorney appleyard is a very good lawyer who always answered my phone calls was very professional and worked very hard to vacate my sentence and get me out of prison and stayed on top of new cases that came out she is someone who will fight to get you out of prison and will answer all of your questions for you and will keep you informed on anything that is going on in your case
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28 Feb, 2017 by Mark
I was referred to Meaghan because my wife and I decided to get a prenuptial agreement before our wedding.
Meaghan was wonderful, caring, and insightful. They explained each step, pros and cons, potential issues, and areas I never thought of. She was efficient in their time and were upfront on costs. Meaghan even emailed me best wishes on my wedding day! How considerate!
I hope I never have to execute my prenuptial or need a lawyer, but if I do I’m calling Meaghan.
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06 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
A family friend got guardianship of my 2 year old when he was a newborn well I just had his brother 1/27/2018 dcs is involved so they placed him with his brother with the family friend I want her to have guardianship of him too so he can't be separated from his brother well DVD is refusing that as an option please help me
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12 Dec, 2018 by Nekko strahin (nekko-thewebsitehustle)
Quickly answered my call, and questions!
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29 May, 2018 by Delyne mccafferty
03 Oct, 2024 by Me8mgp
Who would have thought that my google search for an injury lawyer would lead me to Ron Clearfield & Associates. Well it did and it was a worry free and great experience.
The staff are very knowledgeableand professional. They were kind and we even had a couple laughs. If I had any questions or concerns they handled them in a timely manner. I felt confident knowing I had chosen the best law office. They had my whole interest at state, The end resul proved it. I can’t thank them enough. Five stars⭐️ Hands down
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30 Sep, 2024 by Kisha o
Awesome firm! Andrew and Ron were absolutely awesome! From the initial phone call to the close of my case they were polite, professional, patient and understanding. I let them do their thing and was always advised on the best course. Very satisfied with the outcome. I would highly recommend Clearfield and Associates! Thank you Ron and Andrew.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Khasan amridinov
The team at Clearfield & Associates was always available to help and answer my questions. Their helpfulness and expertise were outstanding. Highly recommend!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Torris miller
10 Aug, 2024 by Angie reynolds
Megan Allen in the Huntingdon office…..no help at all. I sent everything she asked for. In our initial meeting I asked for spousal support. She hatefully said there is no way I could get it. My response was I definitely would not receive if it’s not asked for.
My hopefully soon to be ex husband was physically, emotionally abusive. I sent Megan pictures of bruises, a black eye and a picture of my dog bleeding from my husband breaking a wood bar stool on his head. I sent her recordings of him threatening to kill me and wishing me to die. There was an instant that he showed up knocking and looking thru the windows where I am staying. I asked her for an order of protection. Several times. She did not attempt to even consider it.
Extremely disappointed.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Gary clough
Attorney Jake Old did a terrible job on my case against Capitiol One Bank. Mr. Old sent the notice to Capitol One to the wrong address in Utah even after I provided him with Capitol One's address in Illinois. Mr Olds letter to Capitol One stated that he would sue Capitol One for triple damages and attorney fees if they didn't remove a $250.00 transaction fee when I paid off my account. On 7-18-24 I received a letter from Attorney Jake Old stating Capitol One did not respond to his letter and he didn't have the time or money to continue my case. He had the case for 3 months and his incompetence allowed Capitol One to add late fees and interest to my account. If Mr Old wasn't willing to do what he said he would do if Capitol One did correct their mistake he should have never accepted my case. I would have been better off dealing with Capitol One on my own. I will be filing a formal complaint against Mr. Old with the Tennessee Bar Association in the near future.
Gary Clough
Tiptonville, Tennessee
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02 Jan, 2024 by Geoff blaesing
Nice people
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13 Nov, 2023 by Sheri lenz
27 Sep, 2023 by Trish defrancisco
The unprofessionalism, lack of representation, and blatant disregard for their client's best interest is disgraceful. Please do not hire this law firm unless you have money to burn! I have never worked with a firm that fails to communicate and is only concerned with obtaining additional funds to pursue long-term litigation. In addition, to shirking their responsibilites as legal counsel. Stay Away!
In Response from the Law Firm: I am the mother of the client and the facts that I stated above are not due to emotions. My daughter provided authorization to the Attorney to discuss the case and she refused to return any of my calls!! Again, she is providing one excuse after the next and stole $5,000 for a retainer!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Kelly tomkins
07 May, 2024 by Patrick madison
Men, steer clear of this place...Here's the reasons why.
...It's exactly how all of these other reviews are. Dana Judas is one of the worst attorneys we have ever hired. We have hired numerous real estate and family law lawyers throughout the years. Hands down doesn't have any fight, sided with other counsel numerous times just to get a tentative decision without going to court. Would go as far as to begin deals without consulting us.
WE created all the exhibits, and she billed us for that.
We would ask a question about the case and wouldn't receive a call back for weeks. When she did call back she wouldn't have anything prepped from our exhibits, emails. Prepping for court we went in and she wouldn't have anything figured out as she was trying to ask questions about all the info we had already sent her, which means no review at all. We put down a retainer for court and our first visit with her things starting going south. She started getting frustrated by us having an opinion of how we wanted the problem handled. Save your money,
They conveniently billed out the retainer to the max without going to court . My belief it was to keep our money (BTW). Just shows distrust. She stated the retainer would be for review, prep, and hearing. You know most of the retainer is when you sit in court all day. Didn't end up in court because i was feeling she wasn't qualified to handle my case. Either she was getting fired or withdrawing from the case. She didn't even file all of our exhibits. Once again conveniently billed it all the way up to our full retainer.
What a joke! If you're a guy it's tough already. Having an attorney that doesn't fight makes it even worse.
She just laughed and said my wife sent her a thank you email saying "sorry it ended up like this".
I mean what else is someone suppose to say "with class" to part ways with someone who doesn't perform their job correctly.
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28 Jan, 2024 by Deanna smith
Greg Usher and staff are a great group to have on your side. Highly recommend
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01 Jul, 2024 by Colton lyles
Lady that answers the phone needs a different job or an attitude adjustment immeditantly. So rude!
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04 Apr, 2024 by Jacen bacon
Rude and unprofessional once they find out you're a tenant and not a landlord.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Victoria cardenas
Sara was amazing! Listened to my concerns and did what was right by me and my daughter. I will forever be grateful. I recommend you use her shes great!
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01 Jul, 2024 by Colton lyles
Lady that answers the phone needs a different job or an attitude adjustment immeditantly. So rude!
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04 Apr, 2024 by Jacen bacon
Rude and unprofessional once they find out you're a tenant and not a landlord.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Victoria cardenas
Sara was amazing! Listened to my concerns and did what was right by me and my daughter. I will forever be grateful. I recommend you use her shes great!
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02 Jan, 2024 by Talley
DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY. Julie loves to take your money and all your information and the evidence you give her and just sit on it and do nothing to actually help you when it’s time to go before the judge. “Family Law” is a joke. She values $$ not families. You’re better off representing yourself rather than giving her a dime.
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30 Jul, 2023 by Mike kidd
29 Sep, 2021 by Latrista taylor
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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:
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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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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.
