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22 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
This attorney does not maintain a office or current hours where you can get a hold of this attorney also went to trial with this attorney did horribly horribly in front of the judge she generated over my years and years of my case where I went hungry waiting on this case to happen she generated six pieces of paper on my behalf that is incredibly poor performance lazy lazy she takes on so many clients it's like a shotgun blast type of legal representation move along to the next attorney there are way way too many to choose from
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06 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
She is hard working and does everything she can in her will to get you right.
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31 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Very poor representation throughout. Michelle did the bare minimum. Would definitely not recommend.
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12 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Came highly recommended (from a friend whose ex had actually used her services in their divorce). Very thorough and straight forward. Quick response time. Available to answer questions. Very happy with her services. I even referred a friend.
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12 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Tina is one of the most Knowledgeable attorneys around! I've hired Her on more than one cases and had the best outcome on each case, if your looking for a Respected and understanding attorney, Tina's it!
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14 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I used this attorney for a DWI an she did little to nothing. Her approach for my defense was to get into a battle of the sexes against a long standing prosecuting attorney. She failed to present any evidence for my jury trial, even doctors documentation stating I had a concussion from my ER visit, hospital photos, and etc. I would never use this attorney for ANY legal representation!
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26 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Contacted and met in August from a car accident I had in dec ! Called again today ( nov) found out she moved and the secretary knows nothing of my paperwork I left for her to copy!
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17 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
She is GREAT since she is away from Harvey's office !!!! Recommend her highly. She now practices law like it should be, I had to stand back and watch her be a puppet with my cousins case at Harvey's which is still not settled and has cost over
$ 100,000. Penelope kept wanting to settle Ashley"s case two years ago and she couldn't, you could see the aggervation in her face. To bad Ash is still suffering because of Harvey !!!
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1.0
1 Reviews
5.0
1 Reviews
06 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I can't imagine being more disappointed in an attorney, or any other service provider. This guy smiled and took my (and my family's) money, promised things to be included in my divorce settlement that somehow never made it in, placated me with things like "we can go back to the judge in a couple years and revisit the custody arrangement," which he only said to keep me quiet. When that time came, he would not even respond to messages or phone calls. My ex violated every premise of the divorce decree, over and over, caused enormous harm to my children, and this "attorney," once paid, never lifted a finger on their (or my) behalf again, even to answer a phone call or email. Literally ANY attorney is a better choice.
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15 Feb, 2017 by Mahdi molla
11 Jan, 2020 by Joe bertera
Run and don’t hire. Their motto is over promise, severely under deliver and ILL advise you to run up their fees. They are great at over charging you for substandard service. If you are looking for an attorney whose says in court “I am sorry, I am confused” or “I get those confused” this is the place for you.
Below is owner response after I posted the above on google:
We are very sorry that you were unhappy with our services. We do wish you the best of luck with your future attorneys and would be happy to update who you hire next on the status of your file. Often what we hear at initial consultations and find out later in the case, changes our opinion of how the case will work out. In the end, you have more now in your case
Here is the reality:
After I posted the original review the response from the owner says she is willing to discuss "any charges". A month ago she would not take my phone calls and sent me an email stating she would not do any more work for me unless I paid my balance. I was in fact current on my balance and the next payment was not due until the end of December per her invoice, yet she demanded payment on Dec 6th. Previously I have given her a $4K retainer which was used up very quickly and I was double billed on my first invoice for the same day in court with one charge for 4 hours and another charge for 4.5 hours, I was over-billed right out of the gate on the very first invoice. I knew the $4K was used up or was going to be soon, so I gave her another check for $2K without an invoice or being prompted which in turn made me prepaid for another 2 months. Then towards the end I was being harassed by emails almost on a daily basis for the $ 660 that was not even due yet, payment was demanded before Thanksgiving over and over because "she was closing out her books" even though the invoice was dated to be due Nov 30th and her payment was scheduled to be paid on Nov 29th. I even received a payment email reminder on Christmas morning, shows how much they don't care about you and only $$$$. After all this is when she demanded payment or would not finish the motion. These attorneys obviously only care about money and I find it disgusting. In addition, I was told 1 thing by an associate and she had me sign a document that said different. That mistake in turn cost me another $ 6,000 I had to pay to opposing attorney, and when I asked how could this happen she said that is what opposing council wanted. Trust me you sure don't need a $300/hour note passer that is only going to do what the other side wants. Every move they recommended only cost me time and money to lose over and over again. She was 0 for 5 and I am $20K in the hole.
Spindler Law Attorney
Mon, Dec 2, 2019, 11:05 AM
to me
Joe, The answer to your question was sent in the email below on Friday. I started your motion and am in the process of finishing your motion today. pay your current balance of $1484.15 and I will file the motion Wednesday. Kathryn
So at 11:05am she stated "started your motion and am in the process of finishing your motion today" her words above. THEN AT 11:22 when i ask when will it be done? Her response is below:
Spindler Law Attorney
Dec 2, 2019, 11:22 AM
to me
depends on the speed at which I can finish the motion. I will check on your payments. Kathryn
I got 3 different answers within 30 minutes on when my motion would be done.
On their description she says they are passionate, aggressive, and understanding of your legal needs. The reality is they are selfish, have delicate feelings when challenged and are complete push overs doing whatever opposing council wants. Either way they get a payday and that is their really their only focus, not your needs. Don’t be fooled by their description, it is so far from the truth and how they conduct their services your head will spin.
Please don’t hire. They will only make your legal issue worse and take all your money.
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18 Jul, 2016 by Sarah
Kathryn is great!! She helped me with family documents when I had unexpected health issues. She was extremely knowledgeable and thorough but more importantly she was kind and understanding of the situation.
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26 Sep, 2019 by Sami shelly
Maria Lawrence handled a heartbreaking case concerning our son Tim Shelley. She was very through...professional and at the same time compassionate and competent.
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07 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Only cares about making money. Doesn’t care about Justice. Dropped my case when I needed her the most.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
He always looked out for the best Interestfor my child and I . Always get truthful and honest . Being in a mother leaning state he fought that as a father have equal and fair rights. Always looking for the truth . To the point I asked once if I’m doing wrong please tell me . He helped me grow as a man and how to handle situations better with my child mother. I would always recommend but come as prepared as possible . He is very detailed and honest . The more info the better I felt things went . He always went above and beyond . Worth every dollar invested.
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04 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Unfortunately this lawyer was extremely disorganized and inadequate. Mr Lowen Jones neglected to bring in reports during court and did not represent and fight my case. Due to his lack of efficiency as a lawyer to represent me, my life for the past several years has been changed for the worst. He did not fight for my rights as a mother. It’s a very sad disheartening experience that I don’t wish upon any mother. I would not recommend this lawyer.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Amber
Jason has years of experience and cares a great deal about his clients. His advice is spot on. He has been a great help to me understanding the intricacies of divorce and family law.
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10 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I cannot recommend Jason Fuller to any women. He was unprofessional in many respects that there are too many to list.
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29 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I was referred to Eric Neumann by a friend during a very stressful, back and fourth divorce. I was exhausted with my situation and was looking for a straight forward, honest and direct lawyer and he always provided counsel to me in a professional and compassionate manner.
What also impressed me about Eric was that he never led me down a rabbit hole to run up my bill. If he knew I was asking for something I couldn’t or wouldn’t to able to get he would make it clear that he would do as I directed as my lawyer, but financially it could possibly work out against me. He was looking out for my best interest even over his own financial interest! That is something I had never seen in a lawyer before!
I’d highly recommend Eric to anyone looking for a lawyer that will look out for you without breaking your bank account out of greed!
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25 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
I’ve received the quality of work of a FREE court appointed public defender. He was not aggressive in my case and didn’t know any details about court. I did most of the paperwork myself yet he was not on top of things but charged me an arm and leg to sit on paperwork. When children are in potential danger and time is of the essence, you expect your lawyer to contact you and be on top of any and everything. I expected someone to be aggressive and fight for me but I believe my case wasn’t a priority. I do not recommend him unless you want your court case pushed out, unaware, and to do majority of the work yourself.
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03 Apr, 2014 by Mark
As an attorney, I respect David and always believed he fought for his client
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31 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
This attorney convinced me to agree to a fifty fity that has affected my son so much. The other parent has huge anger issues that I had police reports for as well as witnesses. He had pot in car upon pick up and had been mad about money since pregnancy. I had log books and the courts have proof that he was after taxes. I tried to let him know I was unhappy but he fired me and used the excuse of consistantly late papements. I was late one month but I made next 4 months. He sent me s check back for over 500.00. He had this laid back casual attitude and I needed a fighter!! My son says every time when he has to go with dad, I don't want to go mom, I want to stay at your home... That sucks.. I respond to my son this is your home and I will see you real soon and work hard... My son calls this my home but ITS HIS HOME!!! He is only 3 1/2 and his father didn't even accept him until he was two. He actually bought a swab test at walgreens...Then never sent it. Missid his first easter, birthday, and gave me hell and I have the proof... David Hasen didn't pay attention to his fathers anger, greed or neglect and handed him right over... HE SUCKS!!!!
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24 Jan, 2021 by Lisa
I hired this lawyer she is extremely unprofessional and always late. She is money focused and lied to me on many occasions, stating where my case was and what she filed but never did. Do not waste your money on this woman.
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01 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
I am still currently working with Tiffany on a child custody case and she has been a great help not only legally, but she is responsive and whenever my mind gets the best of me she helps me get back on track.
She is honest and upfront about what can and can't be done so she keeps it real and won't build false hopes. I'm still awaiting the outcome, but so far I am very impressed with Tiffany and grateful she's taken my case and at a reasonable rate as well.
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06 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Although I did not hire Mr. Duncan because he is not nearby, he answered my question quickly and succinctly.
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27 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Guess, like the rest of 99% of lawyer's. In the end, it's the judges' re-election contributions that count rather than legal skills!
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13 Nov, 2019 by Bobby
I contracted her in a divorce case and she said she would file a motion to block sale of property didnt do anything they want answer the phone, if your leave a message they dont call you back, she left town on two different times for a month at a time. I lost 3 harleys and a GMC Terrain because I put rust in her and she didnt do a thing that she said she would do. Stay way clear of the art. Real bad. And the last thing I had was a 1/2 a house and she told me I'd need another att for that.. and still have got a refund yet..... STAY CLEAR
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08 Jun, 2017 by Elise
Ms. Simmons was prompt, professional and caring in handling cases for both me and my family.
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01 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Ashley promised to keep charges down. Instead she threatened to withdraw constantly if funds weren't constantly replenished. She had charges for paralegals doing general secretarial work and reading emails she already charged for reading. Her fees were astronomical and work was poor. She entered stuff incorrectly for me and refused to correct her work or help me get it corrected which cost me terribly and my children.
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15 Apr, 2014 by John
My case was a child custody case. Being a Father in Texas and trying to get custody of your children seemed to be an almost impossible task. The Texas court system is NOT too favorable to giving Father's custody, even when the children want to live with their Father. Ashley was highly recommended and turned out to be the attorney we needed to help us successfully navigate our difficult, if not impossible, court system. She is very knowledgeable, professional and courteous. She was confident, comfortable and performed exceptionally well in court. We can't thank her enough for helping bring our family much joy and happiness. She was a life changer for our family.
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09 Nov, 2020 by Mary
Ryan did not do his homework about how to deal with DOPL. Ryan accepted payment to represent me in a case, then he did not follow any of their requirements to defend me. Advised me I did not need to go to a meeting with the board of nursing. I ended up without a job and a suspended license. He grossed his flat fee of 2500 dollars. I trusted him.
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11 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I was charged criminally in Farmington. Ryan took the time to go through the evidence and even sent out requests for more evidence to see if the case could be argued from a different angle. I could tell that the prosecutors respected him and listened to what he had to say. Also, the Judge listened to Mr. Bushell and considered his arguments. I have been in court before and it seems that court is where Mr. Bushell excels. I would recommend him to family and friends. He was worth the money.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Emma thomas
Kim has been my lawyer for several years. He is kind compassionate and does what is best for his clients.
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20 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
A despicable excuse for an attorney. Very non-professional. Has been disbarred for stealing over 100K of his clients' money. Still steals his clients money with all the unnecessary documents he tricks his clients into filing to prolong the case by several months, even years. Lies and files false documentation. Should be disbarred again!!!
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29 Nov, 2022 by Ms.
Mr. Enbody has represented me as a court appointed public defender and I must say that he has restored my faith in the judicial system, especially in Washington State, which the whole world knows is full of corruption.
Thank you, sir.
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08 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
I was referred to this attorney from an Employee Assistance program. The program provides 30 minutes of free consultation. After the consult you can choose to hire the attorney or not. I called and talked to Enbody Senior. It was an contensious estate issue. I was wondering if it was worth my time or money to pursue. After a 10 minute conversation, Mr. Enbody said he would check the title on a property and "call" me back the next day. At this point, I did not have an answer to my basic question regarding should I pursue the matter or not. However, he did say he would call me the next day and I assumed we would resume the consultation. Instead, I received a call from a secretary who wanted my address so Mr. Enbody could send me a written response in lieu of a call. I provided my address and much to my surprise received a short letter in the mail along with a bill for $60 and a copy of a deed to the property we had discussed. A deed, by the way, that I could of obtained for myself for much less than $60. And still I did not have an answer to my basic question. I complained to my Employee Assistance organization that I had been billed for a service I had never agreed I would pay for. They contacted him and get no where. I will pay the bill. For $60 it's not worth any more of my time other than this review. I hope this keeps other people from getting surprise billings.
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11 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Thank you Raymond! You helped me during the hardest time in my life and you always gave me full attention and kept all of the information regarding my case organized and in view.
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16 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired this man to represent me and he was very incompetent
Lost much of my information I gave home
Didn’t even respond to contempt’s on my behalf
I fired him and hired a real attorney
I’m still paying for his lack
Oh yes he still charge me full price
Don’t hire him!!!!!!
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06 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I went to Mr. Moran, even though his price was higher then most around our area. Pros: he was quick to get us in, and he was straight to the point. Cons: He got frustrated when we had additional questions about our case, and he did not explain certain things clearly like, our house and auto loans. I had a quick question about our bankruptcy a year and half after it was discharged, and he did not return our calls, I even offered to pay for the answer, and I actually had to consult another attorney for free because he never responded. My co-worker was doing bankruptcy same time we were, and found a cheaper lawyer in Silverdale, who accepted payments, and also made sure all questions were answered.
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07 Jul, 2014 by Gena
Mr Moran took care of my chapter 7 filing that came up in the middle of a very acrimonious divorce, he was quick, reassuring, understanding & never made me feel terrified the way the divorce process did.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dala miller
08 Jul, 2024 by Billy roesch
22 Oct, 2015 by David
Atty. King has helped me on several occasions and has always been up front and direct with regards to the expected outcome. He is an excellent litigator and is well respected by prosecutors, judges and fellow defense attorneys in the multiple counties in which he practices. I highly recommend him!
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06 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
I have no feedback for his work as a lawyer, but his personal skills are beyond horrible. After my initial inquiry and multiple attempts to confirm receipt of my fax, he called me and yelled at me non-stop and lied about his calling me back multiple times (I got 1 call 4 days later). He would not let me say a single word for well over a minute. He then hung up on me and when I called him back, he told me to NEVER call his cell phone ever again. He did not return the emails I had sent, and he waited 4 days to tell me he did not receive my faxes and then complained that this all would be blamed on him because I didn't send the document! (Why would I NOT send the documents and then ask multiple times if you received them?!?!)
What a horrible representation and initial impression he gave us. Even if I were in the wrong completely, this is no way for reasonable humans to act. Engage this man with caution. He may be a wonderful lawyer, but I would never trust him.
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30 Apr, 2020 by Mary
Ms. Hawkins quit on my case the business day before my trial for no reason and cost me a half a million dollars. Then proceeded to bill me. How completely awful and unethical. What kind of person does something like this.
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05 Dec, 2017 by Robert
She listens and doesn't beat around the bush. We have been using her for over 3 years now in coustdy battle.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired this lady and Mr Wilson. They both worked together, advertised they both had experience in family law. Yet she had zero experience. Ruined my life and my families life. I lost my job after 30 yrs of experience for taking her advice. She advertised she has family law experience. She isgay, has no experience in families and even admitted to me she had none after ruining my family by giving bogus information. Use this lawyer and you may end up screwed like I was.
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25 Feb, 2020 by Michelle pennell
10 Jul, 2019 by Dawby
Peasley charged me over $30,000. Forced me to sign a divorce settlement agreement, behind closed doors. The agreement was dated incorrectly and notarized without the notary having witnessed my signature. The MSA was never filed. Peasley entered me into a child custody agreement (never filed) without my consent and charged me billable hours. Child support was based on joint custody, but my child resided only with me his entire life. Peasley did not specify any amount of my settlement which constituted child support. She told me she was retiring and may not be able to finish my case and then withdrew as my attorney immediately after settlement, leaving me and my minor son unrepresented, broke and disadvantaged. When I last saw her to retrieve my disorganized and partial files, Peasley was consulting with a new client. Certainly not retired.
This attorney is not a family law attorney, as she did not represent me or my son to the best of her ability.
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16 Oct, 2009 by Jeff t.
A very good lawyer and fair as well, I spent time with another lawyer who was not very productive and let my x walk all over me. When i hired paige she got things moving along. She was very fair to all parties and made sure that fair and eqaule treatment came from the other side as well because before paige that was not happening. Once again could not be more pleased if you can get her for your lawyer I would recommend you do so .
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15 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Attorney Kochis is unprofessional. She ignores clients and never calls one back
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06 Mar, 2021 by Iris pagan
Very professional
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06 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
We trusted Denise to prepare an accurate contact for us and our surrogate. Unfortunately the contract was miswritten costing us thousands of dollars in the end. We would not recommend using her.
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24 Jan, 2015 by Sue & greg molochnick
Having Denise Bierly support us legally was the best decision we made! She wasn't our first attorney we sought and we struck gold when we found her. She was our educator on the gestational process, our saving grace in answering all of our many questions throughout, our match maker for finding the a perfect carrier for our needs, and most of all a newly gained caring friend. We could not be more pleased to have her there the day our twins arrived. It was so reassuring knowing that she was truly there in support, love and kindness to help us celebrate; for thanks to Denise we now have our family!
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29 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
This lawyer was the most insensitive rude lawyer I have ever had the misfortune of meeting. She kept non of my information disclosed, she was rude, and said terrible things. She doesn’t NOT CARE about her clients at all. LACKS COMPLETE EMPATHY. Doesn’t do her job and relies on other lawyers to do her job for her. She is NEVER available is always taking vacations and spending time at “family events”. If you want someone who will over charge and do a piss poor job and make you feel terrible about your choice for adoption THIS IS THE ONE! BEWARE horrible manners would not recommend
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19 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Jenny was a great person to deal with the issues of my divorce and took the lead in the process of the collaborative divorce.
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18 Dec, 2020 by Renae d
Jason Broesder has helped our family with Powers of Attorney, Wills and LLC formations (several times). He is so knowledgeable and offers guidance through each process.
I highly recommend him!
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11 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
My mother (who is 82 years old) approached him when she was advised to file a petition for guardianship & conservatorship for me (which, in and of itself, is ludicrous). She did so because he was already her attorney, having drawn up her will. However, he never even met with her in person, leaving it to his assistant (a paralegal, I presume).
Secondly, once she did approach his office (knowing little to nothing about what the process entailed, let alone what the ramifications were), they never explained to her what guardianship or conservatorship meant, the legal process involved, the ramifications would be for her (let alone me!!!!!). They did not even tell her how much they would charge, whether there would be a retainer fee or whether they charged by the hour.
Now that I have legally filed an objection to her petition and she has been made aware of what this really means (thanks to other people, including myself!), she told her attorney she wished to withdraw her petition. Broesder's office, however, urged her to continue the petition in spite of this, telling her that if she didn't go through with it, it would "cost her far more money" if she were ever to file it again.
I, in the meantime, contacted an attorney to find out what my legal options were (especially since, although I have requested Jackson Circuit Court to appoint an attorney for me-- especially in view of the fact that money is an issue for both my mother and me...) who informed me that the whole petition was ludicrous and I needed to have my mother withdraw the petition ASAP (my hearing is scheduled for Sept 23!!!). My mother called Broesder's office that very afternoon (two days ago), spoke with the same assistant (Melissa), who informed her that her office would be "impossible" (!!!) to withdraw the petition unless my mother coughed up the $2000 she owed them!!
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01 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Mrs. Johnson to represent me with my child custody case. She did nothing but destroy my case. She was clearly intimidated by the opposing lawyer. She did not submit facts and promised me the world when in fact all I received was a big fat bill for $25,000 after paying her $12,000 already. Then she will quit on you when she realizes she can’t do her job.
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10 Dec, 2015 by Emma
I went in for a consultation from Mes. Johnson and she told me she would not be able to represent me, due to scheduling, but went ahead and started helping me as much as she could on my case. She gave me some amazing advise and referred me to another lawyer. If you want someone who will work hard for you and be honest this is your lawyer.
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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.
