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Elissa Margaret Stuttler

1243 Liberty St Ste 403, Franklin, PA

Adoption Criminal Defense Family Law +2 +5

4.2/5

4.2

19 Reviews

09 Aug, 2024 by Kelly langston

This attorney is truly amazing !

31 Jul, 2024 by Selena donlon

Amazing attorney and gets the job done, I would highly recommend him 🥰

10 Oct, 2023 by William flockerzi (wildbill)

Joseph Douglas Barics

356 Veterans Memorial Hwy Ste 3, Commack, NY

Adoption Appeals Child Custody +4 +7

4.2/5

4.2

17 Reviews

13 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous

After he got his retainer he did nothing. No document production, no motion to get documents from prior counsel. Seven months. He told me nothing. He even tried settling my case without my knowledge. I know because I saw his email from another counsel. He must have made a deal with the other side without my knowledge because he harmed me terribly in my case.

04 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous

Doug has worked on my case tirelessly for over a year. His knowledge of the law and consideration of an exceedingly delicate situation has been extraordinary. He has both been incredibly professional and personable. I would recommend Doug to anyone who is in need of someone that is both caring and requires an attorney who is well-versed in the nuances of the law. In my case, Doug was able to change a seemingly impossible situation - an "onion that needed to be peeled layer by layer" as he put it. He is very thoughtful of the fact that my ex is extremely abusive and helped prepare me for what abusers typically make their next steps. In doing so, I have been better able to care for my children in devastating circumstances. He also has helped me better understand the legal process and what is typical vs atypical in the court room. Having that background, the legal jargon and proceedings were easier to comprehend in what has previously been very overwhelming. While my case is not finished yet, I expect Doug to keep fighting with the veracity and intelligence that he has exhibited thus far and will post again at the conclusion of my case! I think the best I can say so far is thank you for everything Doug!

02 Nov, 2019 by Max

I had an attorney and was not happy with her services. I consulted several lawyers, all of whom wanted my case for a significant retainer. I consulted with Mr. Barics who reviewed my case, and said that my current counsel was properly representing me. He explained in detail what should be done and what to do if the judge didn't do what she was supposed to do. I was ready to change lawyers, and Mr. Barics was high on the list. However, his honesty in telling me to stay with my current counsel and declining to accept a large retainer is worthy of mention. I stayed with my existing attorney, and the case proceeded nearly exactly how Mr. Barics predicted it would. I did not retain Mr. Barics then, but I am impressed he would decline a client when he felt the client was properly represented with current counsel. My former attorney has since retired and if I need new counsel Mr. Barics would be my first choice.

Hannah Elizabeth Versemann

210 W. Oklahoma St, Branson, MO

Adoption Business Estate Planning +2 +5

4.2/5

5.0

1 Reviews

4.1

15 Reviews

18 Sep, 2024 by Up grade rc

This place is absolute crap! I hired them nearly 6 months ago paid in full. A month later I had everything signed and notorized now 5 months later they don't answer phone calls text messages email or their client portal. Don't waste your money! Find someone better!

08 Jun, 2024 by Tim hickman

13 Apr, 2024 by Bianca wright

Anthony Wayne Liakos

8712 West Dodge Road, Omaha, NE

Adoption Family Law Litigation +3

4.2/5

4.2

16 Reviews

15 Mar, 2021 by Pete

I have known Tony, personally and professionally, for more than 10 years. I have used his services for my family on multiple occasions. Most importantly, I hired him to get custody of my son. He was extremely honest with me and told me upfront what I could expect. He did such an excellent job for me that I ended up not having to go to court. I have highly recommend Tony to a few people.

14 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous

Had Tony handle my legal separation but he did very little and I ended up getting screwed. At the consult he said "don't worry we will get you what you deserve"!! Well that was a lie and working with him was the most miserable experience ever. Many times he would not answer my emails OR phone calls, that was a huge problem. I would never recommend him or this firm EVER. They will take your money and deliver very little.

24 May, 2020 by Anonymous

Tony not only did a bad job with my divorce, I will now have to pay another attorney due how poor his work was and due to the fact that he was never really fully enraged in my case. It was too difficult to hire another attorney due to how close the court date was, otherwise I would have fired Tony. Phone calls were never returned, email answers were vague, document meant to protect me were left incomplete. Tony was always “too busy” to respond promptly or at all. I could go on and on. The bottom line is, Tony just wants your money, he strung the process along to get the most money from me he could, doesn’t seem to care too much about you, your livelihood or the outcome of your case. I will now how to pay a different attorney to fix his mistakes. Avoid this attorney.

Erin Adams Armstrong

17407 Lorain Avenue, Cleveland, OH

Adoption Child Custody Child Support +4 +7

+1 (216) 264-3907

4.2/5

4.2

16 Reviews

10 Dec, 2022 by Allie

Erin Armstrong handled my divorce case which also included custody and child support. She is so personable, compassionate, understanding and non-judgmental that it made the whole process so much more comfortable for me and put me at ease. She is so reliable and what she promises gets done. She follows through with any issues and communicates in an extremely clear and upfront manner about what to expect, what could happen, how to handle it, etc. She answered my messages and questions in a timely manner. She is honest, has years of experience and knows the laws of Ohio regarding family law inside and out. Erin was truly a fantastic lawyer to work with and I felt I was very supported during the process of my divorce. I have recommended her to many friends and colleagues and will continue to do so. I am so grateful to how much she has helped me and my child handle a very difficult situation which we can move forward from thanks to her assistance. I would hire her again if needed in the future for any other area of law she handles.

10 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous

I retained Erin for a complicated divorce. Not only was she able to answer all of my questions, she went above and beyond to ensure that I was prepared for anything that could have been "thrown at us". She knows her state/local/and county laws and regulations unlike any lawyer I have ever seen...even in court she had to "remind" opposing counsel of things they were not aware of. She approached all of my concerns with grace and compassion but was amazing a fighting for me and my children in court. She is open and honest in her communication with you and you will always know and feel that she truly cares about you as a client...with Erin you are not just a "number" or a "money maker" she is truly invested in helping you navigate through what is often a difficult journey. I recommend her and her services to anyone I know looking for a family law attorney.

31 Jan, 2022 by Tito

As we closed today on our case with a win! I must say I’m beyond forever grateful from start till finish Erin did an amazing job at representing me and I feel like amazing is an understatement. I can’t express how grateful and bless I was to have her represent me during my case, my wife and I actually went with Erin based off reviews left from others and it was the best decision I’ve agreed to do! Thank you Erin for everything you have done for me and my family and we’ll definitely continue to recommend you to others in need.

Emily Jo Gunville

115 W C St, Iron Mountain, MI

Adoption Child Custody Child Support +5 +8

4.2/5

4.2

15 Reviews

22 Jul, 2024 by Frieda violet

Finch law represented me in a child custody case back in 2017. I’ve been singing their praises ever since. They provided unparalleled service. Their no nonsense approach to legal matters and the compassionate way they worked with me was exactly what I needed at the time. This law firm is worth every penny.

22 May, 2023 by Justin spaniak

23 Mar, 2023 by Katie cronick

S. Micah Salb

7979 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD

Adoption Estate Planning +2

4.2/5

4.2

15 Reviews

21 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous

Micah has been my attorney for a number of years. He has always been respectful. thoughtful and above all, honest. That is what I look for in any business relationship. That shows me that he is not " all about the money". Micah represented me in an employment case and it took a very long time. He never gave up at any time. I did work with other attorneys in his firm however, that is what it is about in a team environment. God forbid should anything happen along the way. I think it is a great idea to include others. Everyone can then be on the same page. I also went to him with a family estate issue as well as a medical billing and coding problem. We can't always have our way but I will say this, I can be sure I will understand what the law says about matters that I bring to him especially if there is nothing he can do to help. I will understand why. There was only one time when things did not go my way. But it was not because he did not try for me. I have seen some of the other reviews that are, shall we say, less than glowing? I have to whole heartedly and respectfully disagree with those people. We cannot make everyone happy that is clear but I will say that I endorse Micah and his team. I will always turn to him for legal advice when I need it. I am grateful for his knowledge and expertise in the matters that I bring to him. Thank you Lippman, Sempsker and Salb for being my attorneys!

23 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous

I would not recommend Micah Salb. He didn't return my phone calls, and I was constantly passed on to one of his junior associates who also wouldn't return my phone calls. Drafts of paperwork was scheduled to be sent to me by certain dates but it took multiple weeks to even receive an electronic copy. He only cares about the money and not really about the client.

18 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous

I hired Micah Salb to deal with a family estate matter. After nine months with no resolution, I needed to seek other council. It’s hard for him to listen to the client’s requests. He is arrogant and confrontational, while blaming the client for not cooperating with him. He had to be pushed and prodded concerning updates on my case. Days and weeks would be go by without any emails from him. His billing practices are extremely inefficient. My credit card company had to resolve a disputed bill.

Michael Scott Jennings

130 Jordan Dr, Chattanooga, TN

Adoption Estate Planning Probate +1 +4

4.2/5

4.2

15 Reviews

28 Nov, 2023 by Kim wilson

I could never actually sum up in a review my complete satisfaction with this Firm. I have used Michael Jennings over the past twenty years. And it's because he is so trustworthy and and awesome. It's a absolute pleasure to know he is a phone call away. I have had things come out of nowhere, felt panic and then remembered that I could call him. Everything has always worked out in my favor because he is diligent, a good friend, a person who you can trust. All I can say again and again is Thank you

30 May, 2023 by Aimee simon

I swear I was trying to just ask one question these attorney's would not give me the time of day! They just avoided me! Like they were better than every body else! It was rather disgusting! No wonder alot of people do not respect attorneys! I had to keep calling which was very disrespectful!

30 Apr, 2022 by Andrew metelits

I am certainly glad I have never had to deal with Hoyt Samples in the lawyer sense, but I can comment on his inability in being a landlord. Him and his wife, Mitzi, were the worst landlords a.k.a. slumlords my family and I have ever had to deal with. From Jan '21-Mar '22 we rented 1034 Red Robin Lane in Chattanooga from the Samples. 3 weeks after we moved in, we woke up to a swimming pool of water in the kitchen from a broken sink pipe. notified them immediately and they acted like it was our fault, asking" what did you do" and asking to send them pictures, like it was impossible to understand. Took 2 days for them to get a plumber out there, so no kitchen sink for 2 days for family of 6, unreal! Next the plumbing in the house is God awful. Toilet's never flushed properly, why... because after several complaints the plumber came back out and found chunks of pvc piping in the line. Leaking bathtub faucets, backed up sewer lines in the house, black mold in the house, and above all that, ... these people will nickel and dime you on getting your security deposit back, if any. If he practices law the same way he is a landlord, surprised he hasn't been disbarred.

Sarah Marie Turner

320 S. Walnut Bend Road, Memphis, TN

Adoption Child Support Family Law +1 +4

+1 (901) 410-9587

4.2/5

4.2

15 Reviews

28 Dec, 2022 by Gary

Sarah was a tremendous person to hire as an attorney to help guide me through the dissolution of a near 15 year marriage with multiple children. She was honest, factual, attentive, and respectful of what was important to me. Most importantly, she has a keen ability to understand people in a short period of time. She brought up many things during the creation of the MDA that i had not thought about previously that remain helpful today in navigating life post-divorce. From a pure business perspective, her practice operates very efficiently and she is very organized. All expectations regarding fees, payments, and the entire process are as clear up front as they can be. I would highly recommend Sarah to anyone seeking a family law attorney. For me, she was exactly the attorney I needed.

01 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous

Wonderful! Night and day experience. They actually care about who they represent.

17 Jan, 2022 by Quinton

Mrs Turner explained everything to us upfront before we hired her she was extremely professional she answered our questions…Mrs Turner is a beast in the courtroom she will fight for you until the end. Definitely recommend her. She returned our calls and messages

Michele Louise Wilson

130 Hawthorne St, Hollister, MO

Adoption Family Law +2

4.2/5

4.2

14 Reviews

16 Nov, 2023 by Cheez 200

09 Jul, 2023 by Nanette parton

Great lawyer! Great person!

26 Feb, 2023 by S dixon

At a stressful time in my life I found Attorney Michelle Wilson to be an excellent choice to go to for help. The cost was reasonable and I understood every step of the process. She always responded clearly to my questions. In addition I just liked her.

James Paul Peterson

14400 Northbrook, San Antonio, TX

Adoption Child Support Estate Planning +2 +5

4.2/5

4.2

14 Reviews

22 Jun, 2020 by Michael

I came to know Mr Peterson through my Mother, who worked with Mr Peterson for her will and estate planning. I hired Mr Peterson in early 2019 to help with estate matters (probate, etc) and he continues to be available and helpful and willing to listen to various related matters and offer guidance and professional insight and respect. I value patience and communication and this is what you also get with this lawyer. Highly recommended. As an aside, my brother has also consulted Mr Peterson for other family law/child support matters with great satisfaction as well.

05 Nov, 2019 by Hollyn

Mr. Peterson took my case when a previous lawyer was unable to perform in court. Every email or call from Mr. Peterson was professional and showed all legal reasons, and I always received information from the other parties lawyer when he got it. I would absolutely use him again if needed and would recommend to others. He is a genuine person and very kind and knowledgeable.

26 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous

Attorney Peterson was very reasonable and upfront with my case. He gave several recommendation before my hearing and is a man who understands that mediation can save time and money, in some cases. Definitely, was impressed by his good charater and in holding his word truth to the end. His is not afraid to go up against a high-end paying attorney, realizing that no matter how much the other side charges their clients if you have no case you have no Justice.

3707 Cypress Creek Pkwy, Houston, TX

Adoption Child Custody Child Support +2 +5

4.2/5

4.2

9 Reviews

08 Aug, 2020 by Jeremy

Kimberly was very informative, professional, and lead me to a quick divorce. I would recommend her to anyone who is in need of his services! Thank you for everything!

13 May, 2020 by Anonymous

Kimberly was like my best friend during my divorce. She was there for me every step of the way and was my advocate. I can't recommend her enough.

08 Mar, 2020 by Tonie

My case was assigned to Kim Washington, seemingly an competent lawyer; but after working with her for about ten months, basically continuing work begun four months prior by two of her colleagues, I have come to know differently. Any lawyer earning her fee per hour should be equipped with knowledge and experience that should enable that lawyer to offer sound advice to clients, especially if clients are asking for services that are not offered by the firm anyway!!! I paid too much money (well over $15,000.00) for a divorce that was never contested, but too much time/expense allocated towards chasing possibilities only to learn later on two occasions that I would have to go outside of the firm for services not offered by the firm, but needed to resolve my issue!!! I hope Ms. Washington will listen carefully to what future clients need/want from her and honestly advise accordingly without unnecessarily compounding costs without delivering on objectives known from the beginning of the process.

Beth Angel Garrison

103 Bluegrass Commons Blvd, Hendersonville, TN

Adoption Criminal Defense Estate Planning +4 +7

4.2/5

4.2

9 Reviews

25 Feb, 2022 by Holly parness

“Overpriced and undelivered” is the best way I can describe my experience. Lacked the detail, true concern, or follow through you would expect from a professional attorney charging exorbitant fees whom claims to be the absolute best. Interesting to note, as I met with additional attorneys in my area for help with the same case .. none were surprised by my experience with him.

23 Jan, 2022 by Sonita stewart

02 Jul, 2021 by Angela woods

Great lawyer

Jacqueline M. Handorf-Rugani

5740 Gateway, Mason, OH

Adoption Appeals Child Custody +1 +4

4.2/5

4.0

7 Reviews

5.0

2 Reviews

14 Jul, 2021 by Ahd united

05 Aug, 2020 by Dirty cheese chunk

Mr. Sharma settled my car accident injuries very quickly. Thank you.

19 Feb, 2016 by Cathy

Jackie represented me in an overwhelming family situation involving my daughter. Prior to meeting with her, I was terrified and had no idea of what my rights were or what I could expect to happen. From our first meeting to the last, Jackie did a wonderful job spelling out how the law applied to my situation, and reviewed for how she planned on representing me. Sitting in front of her white board as she clearly defined the facts, the applicable laws and her recommendations in my case, I felt a growing sense of control as she made sense of what I saw as chaos. I greatly appreciated her direct, no nonsense style. While this situation was personally painful for me, I will be forever grateful to her for navigating me through a very difficult time in my life with skill, professionalism and compassion.

David Christopher Veazey

1100 Market Street 6th Floor, Chattanooga, TN

Adoption Child Custody Criminal Defense +1 +4

4.2/5

4.2

7 Reviews

19 Sep, 2016 by Leigh ou

David answered an obscure legal question for me pertaining to something that happened to me at a U.S. Consulate in Europe. He managed to find law relevant to my case, and he proposed a solution for me. David found the answer to my question quickly and easily.

17 Aug, 2016 by Heather

My husband and I hired David for a custody dispute over my nephew. He was always kind, answered our questions appropriately, returned calls promptly and explained the complicated juvenile court system to us. I recommend him to all my friends in need of representation. Our case hasn't always gone as we would have liked but not because of David. He has been wonderful to work with and we wouldn't go elsewhere.

17 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous

I've not hired Mr. Veazey myself, but am fam illiar with him through the Occupy Chattanooga lawsuit. Not being one of the main organizers, I was not personally his client. However, Mr. Veazey was clearly a capable attorney who fought for a client with whom the public in Chattanooga had little sympathy. Later when I thought I needed an attorney, I consulted Mr. Veazey who could have taken my case and charged me quite a bit of money. Instead he directed me to a not-for-profit who would assist me in filing a complaint via a regulatory agency and gave me the name of a more specialized firm to consult if that process was unsuccessful. If I ever need a lawyer again, he will be my first call.

Lauren D. Berkich

305 N. Carson Street, Carson City, NV

Adoption Child Custody Child Support +1 +4

4.2/5

4.2

7 Reviews

15 Mar, 2022 by Caitlin

Very professional and knowledgeable. Quick responses very helpful. Her staff made me feel very welcomed and always got back to be fast. Very open communication. Would highly recommend for anyone going through a divorce.

15 Nov, 2021 by William

Thanks - well done from start to finish - highly recommended - my experience was smooth and timely despite the sensitive topic

26 Mar, 2021 by Megan

I have been a client of Berkich Lucey Law since early 2019. Lauren Berkich represented me through 8 months of mediation and through another 6 months of the litigation process where she helped me deal with a difficult ex-spouse and obnoxious opposing council. The divorce process can feel complex but Lauren and her paralegal, Ashley, guided me through the journey with patience. The process of divorce has such a negative connotation, especially walking into an unknown arena where the legal diction and required documents can be tedious and intimidating, all while going through an emotional roller coaster. Lauren and Ashley's service has transformed my negative connotation of this process to a positive one. Quite honestly, I wish I had contacted them sooner! I chose Lauren because of her firm's philosophy. From the start she was very personable which helped to calm my stress and ease my concerns, her sense of understanding made my transition comforting. I will return to her again for my future family needs. Without a doubt her poised personality, flexibility and patience have been much appreciated. I highly recommend her service. I am positive she will render the same to you.

Jennifer Janet Lothert

995 Morning Star Dr Ste C, Sonora, CA

Adoption Business Estate Planning +2 +5

4.2/5

4.2

7 Reviews

25 Mar, 2023 by Mike flynn

08 Jul, 2022 by Christopher craddock

I had a very complicated case with cps and a crazy ex. Although the system may have failed, Jennifer was very kind and polite and helped through the whole ordeal. She was always fast to answer any questions. She was court appointed and not even a family law attorney. With that she was still the best attorney I’ve dealt with. I would recommend these guys to anyone.

18 Apr, 2022 by Steve winston (ice)

Friendly atmosphere. Willing to help out with any concerns and questions with our family will

Jennifer L. Ater

33 West Main Street, Suite 201, Chillicothe, OH

Adoption Child Custody Estate Planning +3 +6

4.2/5

4.2

7 Reviews

08 Jul, 2024 by Michael himelrick

From the moment you walk into her office you know you are speaking with someone who cares about her clients needs. Very friendly and knowledgeable about the law. She put my mind at ease by explaining and handling my affairs when my wife passed away last year. I highly recommend Attorney Ater.

22 Aug, 2021 by Merissa cruse

02 Dec, 2019 by Wes williams

Allison Luck Bridges

6802 Paragon Place, Suite 602, Richmond, VA

Adoption Child Custody Criminal Defense +2 +5

4.2/5

4.2

5 Reviews

04 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous

I would not recommend her to anyone. She was not very interested in telling us what she could do with our case but was clear on telling us her hourly and retainer fee and had the nerve to add we could pay her more money to file a simple change order. Why would I hire you if I have to do all the work myself?!

19 Sep, 2017 by Tom mckeen

Alison is an amazing attorney. She was prompt to respond to emails. She really cared about the case and most importantly her skills won my case. I would highly recommended her.

16 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous

Allison is the best! Dealing with custody matters can be nerve-racking. When you are coping with a high conflict custody dispute on top of all it can become overwhelming. Allison took care of everything. We would not have kept our sanity without her. Allison kept us up to date and eased our anxiety. We hope we are never in this situation again but if we are, we know Allison is just a phone call away. It has been a positive experience working with Allison. She makes it easy for us to understand all the procedures that are involved, we appreciate all the work and effort she put in on working on our case. Weal enjoyed working with her. Thank you again for everything you are truly a part of our family!

Dana Ranae Looper

165 E Spring St, Cookeville, TN

Adoption Business Civil Rights +6 +9

4.2/5

4.2

5 Reviews

05 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous

I have known Dana for many years and worked with her in a professional capacity before she became an attorney. She was always friendly and even requested my assistance professionally on occasion. I later needed her assistance in a legal matter and she never returned my phone call. She never even a called review the issue with me to determine whether I needed to take legal action. She just ignored my call altogether. I would not recommend her and I am glad she never called me back. Considering her lack of professional courtesy, I do not think she would have provided sound judgment in the matter.

14 May, 2021 by Anonymous

Ms. Dana Looper and staff were extremely helpful, knowledgeable, gracious, and professional. Being able to put matters in order and get questions and concerns addressed is peace of mind. Seek the best, I did. Thank you.

09 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous

Ms. Looper was there for me every step of the way with my case. I highly recommend her for any legal needs. She has a genuine care for her clients and responds in a timely manner.

Marsha C. Woodruff

2863 Old Missouri Road. C-106, Fayetteville, AR

Adoption Personal Injury Probate +3

4.2/5

4.2

5 Reviews

16 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous

We hired Marti initially to facilitate an adoption with a potential birth mom. The birth mom didn't speak English, and during our first meeting, all the red flags went off for us. Marti didn't provide an interpreter, so we had no idea how the birth mom felt about us or what was happening. We later discovered that specific details Marti included in our contract were completely false, including the expected date of birth and gender of the child. We were frantic trying to correct the errors and make adjustments in time, as well as confirm the birth mom was even comfortable placing her child with us. We ended up firing Marti and hiring a new attorney, and we were very glad we did.

02 Mar, 2018 by Jenny

I found her to be very honest and truthful. Her Integrity was a breath of fresh air. However she declined us as clients due to not being able to provide what we are asking for. I appreciate her integrity. It was a breath of fresh air even if she did not tell me what I wanted to hear. I appreciate her honesty.

22 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous

Above all, our birth mom felt safe, comfortable and confident under this attorneys care. Marsha Woodruff was on top of the medical and legal needs for birth mom, baby and adoptive parents. I would recommend her to others.

Valerie Miche Moehle

410 Broadway St, Pekin, IL

Adoption Appeals Business +1 +4

4.2/5

4.2

5 Reviews

02 Jun, 2024 by Robert f

They handled my father's estate quickly and efficiently.

27 Jun, 2023 by L r

11 Apr, 2023 by Wayne holly

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FAQs

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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).

How to Check the Credibility of an Adoption Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

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