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19 Dec, 2013 by Karen
We adopted a little over 3 years ago. She was helpful, knowledgable and just awesome! Very good advocate for adoption! Loved working with her!
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05 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Doesn't finish what she says, client has to track her down to work, over charges what she quotes. Paid final payment to find she wanted more money . Money motivated. Will not be a returning client. Shows little professional conduct to birth family & price gouges adoptive family.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Amaris castillo
Personally, I would not recommend Sylvia. She was very helpful initially, as I was recommended her by a close friend. I paid her retainer to her in cash, then I was informed that she moved to a new firm shortly after hiring her, then was asked for another retainer with her new firm. Not sure if this is normal, but the way I was communicated with about the situation by the new firm wasn't very professional and quite rude.
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07 Jan, 2020 by Leittia knight
Sylvia is an amazing attorney! She is very knowledgeable in regards to Family law. Sylvia is very easy to talk to and compassionate as well. Don't be fooled though, she is tough and will go to bat for her clients. I am very pleased and will use her in the future.
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10 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
We had a horrible experience with Carie. Our teen son was questioned privately with the judge and our attorney Carie. She asked him if he understood his biological siblings would no longer be his siblings, made him consent that this is what he wanted, asked if he understood his previous identity would no longer exist like his mom was never his mom. After he had a panick attack they made him come back in the court room and finish the interrogation. It was a horrible day and she was a horrible advocate.
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10 Mar, 2011 by Ray
We've used Carie for three adoptions and have always found her to be professional, caring and responsive. She has gone over and beyond in two cases that were complicated and we were glad to have her guidance. We'd recommend her, without reservation.
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06 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Totally unresponsive and lacking knowledge of the law. All I got in reply to inquires about my case were "we'll let you know when we have something" or excuses like vacations and "they keep missing each other".
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18 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
She always was there for me in a crisis and there are a lot of them in divorces. Returned phone calls, filed things I needed just overall the best.
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22 Jan, 2024 by Wendy west
Does not side with her own client. Won't listen to clients side of petition . Highly recommend you run from her as fast as you can.
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10 Dec, 2017 by Felecia jones
22 Apr, 2019 by Alfred howard
09 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I found this attorney through Avvo. He said he could not help both my everyone needing an attorney. So I am looking for a new attorney but my family member is going to see this attorney. I was surprised after reading the reviews he was charging a 100$ consultation fee & can't see them for five days. I pray he is a fantastic attorney. With the reviews saying their consultation was free ... I felt it necessary to let any one looking that that has changed.
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28 May, 2020 by Anonymous
I worked with McKenzie for several months. She is nice and helpful, but i was disappointed in her grasp or recall of the details of my case. I should have recognized the signs. I corrected the details in the case many times, in fact each document sent to me for approval needed corrections. At my hearing, while the opposing counsel was dressed professionally, spoke confidently and knew all his facts, McKenzie did not meet those same standards of professionalism. In her presentation of my case she often looked up and to the right, a sign that she was trying to remember or trying to formulate what to say. She even stated some facts of the case incorrectly in front of the judge. Part of our request was allowed to go to trial (which my ex wanted completely dismissed) and part of the opposing party's request was granted. The outcome wasn't all bad, but I was disappointed in the way she represented me. I spent a lot of extra money correcting the documents over and over.
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24 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Mrs, Kalores failed to make sure the suite filed against me was going to be seen in court timely. I appeared with her on the initial court hearing date to find that the opposing party's attorney had filed for a continuance. She had no notice of the continuance. Then she received a court date from the opposing attorney for the continuance. We showed for the date to find there was nothing on the docket for my case. She blindly accepted the word of the opposing party's attorney. The attorney filed a continuance, but did not set a date. She allowed the opposing attorney to waste time and use up time. I feel my case wasn't important to her, she did not stay on top of the case.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Teresa kocher
My experience goes back 23 or so yrs ago. Had a whippersnapper ADA back then. Having an atty w your best interest at heart, good judgement & a brain is even more important.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Shaakirah landers
07 Jan, 2023 by Marcia sylvester
No reason to fear this place they drag out chump change cases and have newbies and interns do all the work. Big companies spend more money in litigation than they would have if they settled. Stay away!!!
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08 Dec, 2022 by Delisa shatteen
Definitely would not recommend for hire… they purposely dragged out our case. The Plaintiff was more than willing to settle for way less than they was in the beginning but the attorney never said a word. No calls, communication and very unprofessional. Wish we saw these reviews beforehand.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Charles p.
How glowing of a review do you give someone who saved your life? Bad, short duration (3 years), too quick marriage for all the wrong reasons. I had the house (free and clear), wife had the credit rating to get a home equity loan so we could pursue a business venture. I quit claim'd the deed to a joint tenancy one (bad mistake) and she got a HELOC ON MY HOUSE!. Wife soon soured on the business venture and emptied what was left in the HELOC account after significant home improvements. Relationship went to hell and I reached out to Ms. Ryan whom I learned of through a friend. Best call I ever made. Talk about nasty divorces. Wife wanted 1/2 the house and relief from the HELOC. Ms. Ryan successfully parried ever motion wife's attorney filed and I got my house back (wife got no part of it), and I took responsibility for the HELOC - fair since the bulk went into the house. To me it is apparent that Ms. Ryan has the knowledge, experience and judiciary relationships in SE Mass like no other divorce attorney on the South Shore. She and her staff are worth every penny. My divorce became final two weeks ago and I'm back in my house pursuing my business venture with the help of my brother (should have reached out to him rather than marry a credit rating). If you are in the Massachusetts South Shore area (read Plymouth) and your spouse is contesting the divorce, Ms. Ryan is likely the lawyer for you - she will save your life like she saved mine.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Jeanne
Susan did not represent me she was my husbands lawyer. My husband and I spoke though our whole divorce process. We still speak today, just saw him yesterday. Susan intentionally changed his Financial statement, all through email (We laughed). I’m not too sure who she knows in the courts that has gotten her to where she is today. The judge seems to be in her back pocket. Scumbag move on your part Susan (again we laughed and it ment nothing) but youll pay for your nastiness somewhere. Lots of love ❤️ sincerely Jeanne Farrar.
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09 Jan, 2024 by Workerline worker
Bulldog that destroys families!!! She is your worst nightmare and will not fight for your children's interest - I haven't seen my children in months. By the way, I have no criminal record, DCF involvement, pay for the house he left me with and now I will become homeless, lose my children to a liar who is just after money and anger. She made up lies after lies, she will try to get you to sign custody without your knowledge of the law. She fought for a a guy with a DUI to be able to drive children around.
She will fight for all substance abuser parents so if you are one of those hire her, she will fight for you and abuser spouses - she supports and parent alienation, no communication of vital information between parents as well such as medical - there is no reason for both parties to know about the children - one is always dirt and doesn't matter and has no rights.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Korbin sturgeon
She will never return my calls and if I could I would give this place a half have a star but I've called her 100 times in the past two weeks she is the worst attorney in the world I've sent emails and called and I get nothing back.
DO NOT HIRE HER SHE SUCKS
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14 Nov, 2022 by Hollywood
She was the representative for 2 cases that I have known personally. One of the cases paid IN FULL and still refused to communicate as a lawyer typically does. That case fell to the waste side. The father still received custody of his child but NOT with any help from Linda.
In the other case, we tried to communicate and once again she refused to respond to her emails and the message left at her office.
The email was sent while she was "at a conference" and the phone call left over the weekend 3 days after the email was sent. I came by her office and when she decided to step from behind her partition I introduced myself and explained who I was regarding her client. This was at 4 pm the day before the court hearing. The saddest part was that she was completely unaware of her client's whereabouts. She stated, "from my understanding she is....". Her client was not where she thought she should be, the client was in custody. I told her "I'm not sure why you were unaware" and she IMMEDIATELY cut me off, took offense, and told me to leave instead of allowing me to help her with pertinent information regarding the said case. Now initially I wasn't blaming her at all for not knowing however after that outburst it had me thinking. If she was following her client and following up with her work then she would have known the whereabouts of said client.
I would NOT recommend this attorney.
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11 Jan, 2022 by Carlos edwards
My biggest heart of appreciation to you I don't know where would if wasn't for your help, and thank you for getting me back to my normal life.
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26 Jul, 2022 by Ann shiffer
I have met with Mr Barber a number of times over the past 9 months regarding my estate planning. 3 documents have been signed, notarized and paid for yet I have not received any of them. The fourth has not yet been drafted and my attempts to contact him have been ignored.
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03 Jun, 2022 by Loretta muhammad
16 Dec, 2021 by Ghessehgoo
15 Jan, 2021 by Akrielz “akrielzgarage” garage
Do not recommend!
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01 Mar, 2020 by Okk hik
Best lawyer in Omaha. Helped with the case a lot and help ful Kasaby
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06 Sep, 2024 by Emily belloso
01 Aug, 2024 by Joseph
I can’t thank Edward Smith enough for his incredible support during a very challenging time. When I needed him most, he showed up during my civil TRO hearing and knew exactly what to say to ensure I didn’t sabotage my own case. His professionalism and ability to navigate the legal world with ease were truly impressive.
Edward Smith fought tirelessly against my wife’s demands, which were more than I could afford, and he wouldn’t settle for anything less than fair. His dedication and expertise made all the difference in my case. If you’re looking for a lawyer who will stand by you and fight for your best interests, look no further than Edward Smith. Highly recommended!
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09 Jul, 2024 by Christian brown
I've had an absolutely terrible experience. He took a 5.5k retainer, my case was moved to Canadian Courts, and now he's failing to respond, not returning the retainer, and appears to be attempting to steal my money.
These actions have been preventing me from acquiring the appropriate legal representation.
I strongly advise staying away from this law firm.
UPDATE:
He ended up padding the bill when asked for a refund of the retainer. Charged me for text messages and emails that he never responded to including messages listed below were I requested my funds be returned.
"You are negatively impacting my ability to secure legal counsel and leaving me with no other
options but to explore pursuing a civil case against your firm.
If my money isn't returned this week, I'll be pursuing a civil case as well as filing a complaint
with the Hawaii State Bar Association. This is absolutely ridiculous." CHARGED me $55.
"Are you planning on returning the funds at all?
It's very concerning that my requests have gone unanswered." NO RESPONSE and CHARGED another $55.
"Good morning,
We secured a lawyer in Ontario to handle the extradition/child custody. Would it be possible to
return the remainder of the retainer? If the case ends up coming to Hawaii, we can send resend
a retainer. Funds are just tight at the moment." NO RESPONSE and CHARGED another $55.
"Hello,
Are you able to help me formulate the response to the OCL report? This is my draft so far.
OCL Response .docx" NO RESPONSE and CHARGED another $55.
I think everyone can see the trend. I strongly advise looking elsewhere for a lawyer.
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17 Feb, 2024 by A s
Worst attorney in Kansas, incompetent, does not advocate for Father's rights. Is a mumbling lost buffoon in the courtroom.
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09 Apr, 2020 by Cheyenne pamp
26 Jul, 2019 by Charles cox
Decent attorneys office nice people
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09 Aug, 2024 by Janet
22 Jun, 2024 by Gaby d t
RUN DO NOT HIRE THIS LAWYER!!!
HE WOULD FILE FALSE STATEMENTS INFORMATION!!! HIS LICENSE SHOULD BE TAKEN AWAY!!
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19 Jun, 2024 by Marcia del toro
He is about to get reported to the border school of attorney for filing wrong motions and petition for child custody in the wrong state when there is NO jurisdiction there for the child!!!! Him knowing the child didn’t reside there!!! Unethical and unprofessional!!!HIS LICENSE SHOULD BE TAKEN AWAY!!!
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03 Jul, 2023 by Kim gollehur
Quick easy free referrals. I was very pleased.
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24 Apr, 2023 by D dee
Just not interested in helping anyone... Yet, it's there to assist the public & Not in Such a rude manner.
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21 Sep, 2022 by Dylan ochoa
rude, didn't care, don't want to help the people, hate their jobs, rude once again,
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21 Jan, 2023 by Alexandra alberti
Horrible horrible lawyer. She represented my mom in the middle of a complete nightmare scenario for our whole family. We are now seeing the impacts of her complete lack of fighting for my mom and it's awful. The amount of effort put into what she did for my mom was minimal, at best. I would never recommend her to anyone in need of a lawyer, ever. After a divorce, someone should be able to move on in an okay situation due to the fact that their lawyer made sure of that. There was so much that was overlooked. There was no attention to detail. There was no soul in the fight from this lawyer. Do not hire her. You'll regret it later when you're sitting there wondering why so much is still being taken from you or your loved one that should have been concrete and locked down after the divorce. If you're reading this, keep looking. This lawyer isn't where you should stop your search.
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09 Sep, 2022 by Shane davis
The law firm's website is infected with a URL Phishing malware.
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15 Dec, 2021 by Erin aguilar
Rudely interrupted, not friendly and just purely not professional
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27 Oct, 2023 by Kayla scott
Complete JOKE! They filed suit without our permission. They do not communicate at all. They do not follow directions. And they lie! Horrible service. Do not use them unless you want your situation to get worse.
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24 Oct, 2023 by David pena
Did not show up to court. Lost all our paperwork and emailed copies 3 times. Resending not a big deal but annoying. Communication through out the whole process was horrible. Now we lost the case and it's very hard to over turn. He has promised to return our money in payments. First check was denied by the bank. And now he says I forgot. I have the emails to prove it.
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13 May, 2023 by Anonymous
I wish I hadn’t hired her. Won in court but then lost in arbitration on enforcement due to her not filling on time with the arbitration rules!!!
I hired another lawyer who was aghast at the documents she drafted and we WON our case for enforcement in court.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Lauren ambrogi
Georgia is absolutely one of the best lawyers I’ve ever worked with. When you’re truly doing right & need help she is your person. She truly fights for what’s right & advises you in the right direction. She’s been available at anytime for me during my case. It really helps when your lawyer takes the time that she does with a case. She will be my go to for anything needed in the future. Cannot recommend enough.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Reyne polk
This attorney was recommended by another attorney to contact for information regarding divorce. I was not able to speak with Ms. Ashby; however, I was consulted by her partner. This attorney answered my questions but informed me it would be a long process and by the time we finished I would owe her $200,000.00 - 400,00.00 US dollars what a crock!!! Then she sent me a bill for our 6 minute conversation over the telephone for $ 400.00. Which they stated she charged $400.00 an hour. How does 6 minutes constitute one hour. STAY CLEAR OF THIS LAW FIRM THEIR OUT FOR YOUR MONEY NOT TO HELP YOU!!
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21 Mar, 2024 by Laura trout
Got my answers that I need
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03 Sep, 2024 by Andy captain
I would not recommend you use this law office unless they are offering to do the work for free, and even then I would carefully consider them. They did work for me in September of 2022 for a refinance. Almost 2 years later on Monday August 26th, 2024 I received a phone call stating they had a check for me for over $1400. When I asked what it was for they told me when they did the refi they took out for insurance but then found out it had already been paid out of escrow so they needed to refund me the money. Two years later they realized lol. Wow. They wanted to confirm my address which they did. I live about 3 miles from their office so one week later when I still didn’t have the money they were mailing I called and left a message. The check was still there lol. I guess they figured that 2 years was not enough and I needed to wait longer.
When I picked up the check I asked what is going on down there, why did this take so long? I got a deer in the headlights look from the nice lady at the front who said she would pass along my dissatisfaction. Since no one can give me a reason for this I am going to go out on a limb and call it incompetence. That is something you don’t want from someone representing your interests in any legal matters.
So do yourself a favor. Do not use this incompetent law firm. I am lucky they ever figured it out at all and that I ever got the money back.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Jeremiah gilliland
This Law Office was extremely helpful, personal, and all-around inviting. Highly recommend!
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23 Jan, 2024 by Kym furr
Terrible lawyer for children’s services. What a waste of money
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17 Sep, 2023 by Carol kennedy
Been renting from them for over a year and a half always helpful and friendly
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06 Sep, 2023 by Kelsey gilley
Disrespectful, and very unprofessional
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18 Jul, 2023 by Hawkeye
14 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I highly recommend using better representation for cases that matter. You get what you pay for with this one.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Tracy
Jennifer and her staff were wonderful until I paid her. They never had their crap together. Even sent me paperwork with my name on it, but other people's information in it. I would have to ask several times for paperwork to be filed. She didn't fight for me in court. Not sure what I paid $4000 for. I guess so she could get a new Louis. I asked multiple times for finalizd paperwork after we went to court and never received it. I finally stopped asking. I regret the day I hired her.
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11 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Jennifer is a sloppy lawyer who lies and bases information off word of mouth instead of really digging deeper her own self. She stays on her phone more than she pays attention and also tries to humiliate people on facts of assumption rather than truth. The bar really needs to look into her practices and dismiss her!
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16 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
If I could give zero or even negative stars I would. She ignored about 98% of my phone calls, emails & texts. She made agreements/arrangements with the opposing council, without my knowledge. Then signed an order on my behalf to an order I didn't agree to, nor did I have any say in.
I wish I could get my time & money back.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
After my initial consult I thought she seemed great and wanted to hire her for my case, but she never called or emailed me back for the retainer. I called several times, left messages and even talked to the paralegal who assured me every time that she would call me back. In the end, I'm very glad I never hired her. If she can't even manage to call me back to take my money, she probably couldn't handle anything else.
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03 May, 2023 by Rick jacobsen
We have used Meghan twice this year. She was awesome to work with. Highly recommended
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27 Oct, 2022 by Carlos maldonado
If you are considering hiring this Law firm and you love your family, I urge to reconsider, read all the reviews bellow this one they are really bad, She (Julie Seymour ) it states things we didn't agree and didn't talk being a lawyer you should judge for your self, I will let you judge this situation and consider if its a good fit for your family. A person that doesn't pay her house cleaners to threat, don't respect agreements and change them to her convenience. I strongly recommend consider doing buissnes with this law firm. You can judge people how they behave with others and most important if its in your own home and family.
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05 Feb, 2021 by Robin johnson
Spent thousands of dollars and got nowhere. Lawyer was doing her own thing in her time. I didn’t feel she was working for me or my sons best interests. I do not recommend this law office
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03 May, 2019 by Samuel ireri
Initially I retained Julie as my attorney and ended up getting Mary. They promised alot but didn't deliver to expectation. She missed child support court date. Of all court appearances....I walked in thinking I was would have my lawyer with me but no one was there, no counter motions were filed as expected and as promised.
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13 Aug, 2023 by Tina
No I would not hire this attorney ever again. He was paid in full and took years to get in a courtroom. If I dare call him after he was paid he would never return calls or rarely if I did get him on the phone he would scream at me about he had other clients. This was years back but I remember how I was treated.
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02 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
I needed a good attorney to handle my child support case, since it was coming from another state, and a few complicated matters going on. I was told that Lassiter would not begin to work my case until I paid him in full, and I paid him in full earlier this yr. He made 0 calls to the other state to find out about a final hearing, which actually delayed some info. needed for a hearing in NC, in addition, he hardly returned my calls and I had to drive with a fever once to his office, to be treated unfair. I did receive court dates and never papers in the mail from the law firm for the past 7 mos. showing updates on my case, I had to drive in person to the local courthouse to get papers needed about my case, In addition, his secretary-paralegal is extremely rude and even border line control of emails. I have been displeased with the level of service I have received, and my ex husband had plenty of time to get a good lawyer during the longevity of my entire case, which has put me behind in my bills. Please try to find another family law attorney,
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05 Jun, 2020 by Gary
I will forever be grateful to Mr. Lassiter and his fine staff for the work they did representing me.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Sonya riggs
20 Dec, 2023 by Gina reilly
I recently needed legal services and I hired Attorney Curtis.
He was amazing! Seriously I’m so very impressed and so lucky to have had him in my corner!
He was brilliant and really knew how to cross examine someone who was lying and expose them perfectly!
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06 Nov, 2023 by Steve smith
08 Jul, 2024 by Dave burke
Amy Moniz and the Crary Buchanan team are the most outstanding, knowledgeable and talented law firm Ive ever had the pleasure of working with. I truly can't say enough good things about Amy, if you need someone to help guide you, look no further, she's a perfect 10
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08 Jul, 2024 by Colin connolly
This law firm is beyond superb!
We had the luck of getting a referral to Linda for me to adopt my son. She made the entire experience easy and seamless. Kept me informed the entire way and truly went above and beyond to make our family whole.
We recently used Nicole to handle our recent home sale that started out as a nightmare but once Nicole LaLiberte came aboard all my stresses went away. She was beyond amazing and went above and beyond to ensure the transaction was legal and protected my assets.
I can not thank them enough!
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08 Jul, 2024 by William kiddy
My experience with Crary Buchanan has been a wonderful and educational endeavor. They were compassionate and communicative throughout our client relationship; they took the time to inform me of my options, as well as explain technical nomenclature and professional jargon in ways I could understand. They worked diligently to achieve the best outcome for my case. Thank you!
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Discover the ideal 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.
