Top review highlights

AI generated excerpts from the customers reviews
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Pros
1
Exceptional legal representation and advocacy, resulting in favorable outcomes for clients
“The best attorney in the area won my case with reimbursement of my separate property funds that I do not believe another attorney would have been able to get for me.”
2
Personalized and compassionate approach, making clients feel like part of the team
“They made me feel like I was part of their family. They will always be my first choice for future legal needs.”
3
Deep knowledge of the local legal landscape and procedures, providing a key advantage
“Given the differences between county procedures, we found ourselves requiring the services of someone more familiar with the nuances of the area.”
4
Proactive and thorough preparation, leaving no stone unturned
“He spent countless hours preparing his defense, dissecting the prosecution's case each day and anticipating any pitfalls we may have encountered.”
5
Strong communication and client support, keeping clients informed and addressing their concerns
“Throughout the entire trial, we felt informed and confident that there would be few, if any, surprises.”
Cons
1
Potential disconnect between client expectations and the attorney's advice
“Though my (now) ex-wife and I agreed on property and other monetary instruments, our only disagreement was of who should gain control of my son. I believed everything to do with my son's best interest to be split fairly. Instead, Ryan and his staff insisted on 'Take the minimum since that is what we can guarantee to get you.'”
2
Lack of regular communication and updates during the legal process
“I rarely heard from Ryan or his paralegal (Denise) during the process. I would get an occasional message on my phone to call letting me know 'We're almost done.'”

All reviews

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14 Jan, 2019 by Luis a. ayon
When I went to Childers and Associates I was living a nightmare. I had to resign my dream job in law enforcement, I was facing felony charges, and a potential prison sentence, and I hadn’t done anything wrong. My ex-wife had falsely accused me of domestic violence, she’d promised she ruin my life and now she was attempting to do it. In our first meeting, as soon as Mr. Childers and I began speaking he put me at ease, and unlike some lawyers he was easy to understand, and he took the time to listen to me. I made it clear that I would not plead guilty to anything since I had done nothing wrong, and Mr. Childers agreed he would fight my case until it was dismissed or we won at trial. In court, at our first hearing with witnesses, Mr. Childers was able to cross-examine my ex-wife exposing her lies, it went so well that at the end of the hearing he was able to convince the judge that my case should not be a felony and it was reduced to a misdemeanor, this was a big win but we weren’t done fighting. For some reason, the DA would not budge on my case, so we had take my case to trial. I have never been through anything like this before, it is stressful, but it always made me feel good that Mr. Childers was confident in my innocence and in his ability to convince a jury of it too. My trial was nerve wracking but also so enjoyable watching Mr. Childers skillfully expose lie after lie after lie being told by my ex-wife. He used text messages I had given him and confronted my wife with them after each lie, and with others he used voicemails, taking my ex’s own voice and using it to expose more lies. It seemed like Mr. Childers was running circles around the DA. Every time the DA tried to do something my lawyer was prepared and knocked it down time after time. As I sat through the trial, especially Mr. Childers final argument to the jury, I knew I could not have made a better choice for my lawyer, I knew I was getting my life back. I was right, the jury took less than an hour (45 minutes) to find me not guilty. At the end of the trial I knew that I wasn’t just a case to Mr. Childers but he actually cared, and I’m grateful that he worked so hard to help me. I’m sorry this is such a long review, but so much happened that I don’t know how else explain it. Let me finish by saying, I can say without any doubt that if you need a lawyer, you have to hire the best and there is no question that Mr. Childers and his firm Childers & Associates are the best.
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15 Aug, 2017 by Paulina gutierrez
En 10 años que llevo siendo demandada injustamente por el padre de mi hija, sintiendo temor por sus amenazas, al ser yo mexicana y el padre ser americano, en todos estos años y varios abogados contratados, el licenciado Childers es el mejor abogado , realmente estudio y resolvió con ética y humanidad el caso .Gracias! For over 10 years I've been the father of my daughter has been sue me with false declarations, causing me fear of loosing my daughter to him. I've had many lawyers until I came across Childers. Thanks to Mr. Childers we won this battle and I feel much safer. I highly recommend his firm. He really takes time to study your case very carefully, advising you well and finding the missing pieces to solve the puzzle. Thank You!
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20 Jul, 2017 by Jenna
I gave Ryan Childers and Associates a FIVE star rating for their extensive knowledge of the law, the compassionate demeanor of Mr. Childers and his entire staff, and the great lengths he goes to, putting his all into the cases he takes on. My case is a very rare and complicated legal matter. This fact has not slowed down Mr. Childers or his staff a bit. Mr. Childers and his team thrive in the law field and do an outstanding job with their legal research, filing of proper paperwork, and writing professional responses and petitions. They also strive to understand ever detail of the case. They really go above and beyond for their clients. And when the time comes for trial, Mr. Childers' performance is very impressive. Aside from his witty tactics in court, he also continues to research and look over details during recesses. I'm telling you--Above and Beyond!!
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20 Feb, 2017 by John
Ryan Childers was by my side throughout my custody dispute. We won our case getting a 50/50 timeshare, including a schedule that was in the best interest of our children; allowing them to have much needed time with both parents. Ryan was very knowledgeable and he handled my case very professionally, keeping it on track.
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24 Jun, 2016 by Carolyn
I cannot say enough positive things about the law offices of Ryan D. Childers & Associates, in El Centro, CA. My boyfriend and I were struggling for two and a half years with a legal issue, which wasn't looking good. We live far from Imperial County, where the issue occurred, and had hired a San Diego-based attorney to handle our case, initially. However, given the differences between county procedures, we found ourselves requiring the services of someone more familiar with the nuances of the area. We were so fortunate to find Mr. Childers through a search of reputable attorneys in El Centro, and could not have been more pleased with the entire team. From his polite and helpful receptionist, to his bright and adept associate attorneys, to his exceptional support team, EVERYONE treated us with courtesy, respect and kindness. Mr. Childers, himself, is very well respected in the community, serving on multiple boards and committees, and happens to be the third-generation of his family to be born and raised in El Centro. He so loves the community that he is raising his own family there, as well. It seems rare to find a defense attorney who is invested in his clients' lives, but Mr. Childers took the time to get to know my boyfriend, myself and our infant daughter. His wife also works out of his office, as a real estate agent, and both she and his young children took the time to introduce themselves. I found this to be such a comfort during a difficult time for our small family. When it came time to take our case to trial and we had to stay in town, two hours away from home and anyone we knew, Mr. Childers and his staff went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that we had safe and reliable childcare as needed, at no cost. This may seem small, but it made an already stressful situation vastly more manageable. In total, we spent roughly one week in trial. Mr. Childers left not a single stone unturned, listened to our input and truly made us feel like we were all on the same team. He spent countless hours preparing his defense, dissecting the prosecution's case each day and anticipating any pitfalls we may have encountered. Throughout the entire trial, we felt informed and confident that there would be few, if any, surprises. When I had the opportunity to sit in court, Mr. Childers spoke with confidence, respect for everyone involved and armed with as many facts as possible. We won, thanks to his efforts. Whatever the legal matter, be it a defense case, estate planning, family law, or any of the other legal matters his office handles, I would put 100% of my faith in Childers & Associates, every time. We are beyond grateful for their assistance, and so happy to have put the matter behind us and be able to move on with our lives.
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Best lawyers in El Centro, CA

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27 Apr, 2024 by Dan perkins
Ed sada did an outstanding job defending my family several years ago. He kept his eye on the ball and was on point. I recommend him.
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27 Jul, 2021 by Julian
Ken Baker is a "down to business" attorney that took charge of my legal matter with the confidence of a true professional. He helped me when I was in a dire situation. I originally contracted the services of another attorney which turned out to be a nightmare and a waste of time and finances. I was in desperate need for someone capable that would not over charge me and Ken Baker answered the call, he went above and beyond. He was able to explain the law in a manner that I could easily understand, but more importantly, he kept me updated through the entire process. After spending (both in time and money with the original attorney) 5 months with my original attorney, Ken Baker was able to start and close my case in a matter of 30 days. Unlike my original attorney, he was always available for advice, updates and requests always returning emails, phone calls, and even text messages. I was very pleased with his services and I definitely recommend him to whomever needs it.
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11 Feb, 2020 by Noel ortiz jr.
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09 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Harter is an excellent professional. Very knowledgeable, personable and will give you 110% of his time to your case. I was very impressed with his effort and with how he really cares to give you the best outcome in your case. Mr. Harter helped my son clear all charges and retain a clean record. I highly recommend Mr. Harter for helping you with your legal matters.
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10 Jun, 2012 by Jay
John was very proffesional and at the same time personable. He handled my case with the expertise of a lawyer with years of experience. Im very pleased with the outcome of my case!
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15 May, 2012 by Ronnie
The California DVM revoked my son's driver's license for not getting a medical exam as recommended to them by a California Highway Patrol Officer nearly a year a half ago. He was never notified to get a medical exam or that his license was revoked. Last December he was stopped for a stop sign violation. Surprise, my son's license was no good. He gets a stop sign charge (which he pleads guilty) the license he has in hand gets taken and the car is towed to the impound yard. He gets charged with a misdemeanor. My son got his license reinstated. Mr. Harter straightened the legal requirements out and met with with court at each step of the way. No charges were upheld by the court.
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26 Jul, 2014 by Rachael
I was very pleased with Mr. Honse. I was scared, but he was always so positive and upbeat. El Centro is a small town and it helped having an attorney, like Mr. Honse, who was well-known and obviously very respected. He knew just what to do and who to talk to. Two months after the case was over I had a problem with my insurance company. I called Mr. Honse and he was glad to help me and told me there would not be an additional fee. I could not be happier.
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17 Jan, 2014 by Larry
I was facing jail and losing my job. Mr. Honse insisted that I relax. He told me the system is filled with good people trying to do the right thing. He was right. I kept my job and got passed my problem. He is a very decent and fair man. Thank you so much
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21 May, 2012 by Oscar
I was falsely accused of domestic violence. My girlfriend admitted that she had lied but the police still would not drop the charges. Mr. Honse was very calm and reassuring. He kept saying the District Attorney would not take the case seriously unless I was willing to go to trial and fight. On the day the jury trial was scheduled to start, the Distict Attorney told the court they did not have enough evidence and they dismissed the case. Thank you Mr. Honse. I was ready to give up but you refused to allow me to plead guilty to something I did not do.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What Questions Should I Ask Before Hiring a Lawyer?

Hiring the right lawyer is crucial for the success of your case. Here are some important questions to ask during your initial consultation:

  1. What experience do you have with cases similar to mine?
    Ensure the lawyer has relevant experience in the specific area of law pertaining to your case.
  2. How do you charge for your services, and what are the estimated costs?
    Understand the fee structure, including hourly rates, flat fees, retainer fees, and any additional expenses.
  3. Who will be handling my case?
    Find out if the lawyer will handle your case personally or delegate tasks to other attorneys or paralegals.
  4. What is your approach to resolving cases like mine?
    Learn about their strategy, whether they prefer negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
  5. What potential outcomes can I expect?
    While no lawyer can guarantee results, they can provide an assessment of possible scenarios based on their experience.
  6. How will you communicate with me throughout the process?
    Establish expectations for updates, preferred communication methods, and response times.
  7. What is the expected timeline for my case?
    Get an estimate of how long the process may take from start to finish.
  8. Do you have references from past clients?
    Testimonials or references can provide insight into the lawyer's professionalism and effectiveness.
  9. What challenges do you foresee in my case?
    Understanding potential obstacles helps you prepare and sets realistic expectations.
  10. Are there alternative ways to resolve my legal issue?
    Discuss options like mediation, arbitration, or settlement to resolve the issue efficiently.

Can a Lawyer Represent Me in Courts Outside of El Centro, California?

Whether a lawyer can represent you in courts outside of your city or state depends on their licensure and the jurisdiction of the court:

  • Within the Same State:
    Lawyers licensed in a particular state can typically practice anywhere within that state, including all cities and counties. They can represent you in both state and federal courts located in that state.
  • Outside of Their Licensed State:
    If your case is in a different state, the lawyer must be licensed in that state to represent you. However, there are exceptions:
    • Pro Hac Vice Admission: An out-of-state lawyer can request special permission to represent a client in a specific case in another state. This requires filing a motion with the court and often working in conjunction with a local attorney.
    • Federal Courts: If your case is in federal court, a lawyer licensed in any state may be able to represent you, provided they are admitted to practice in that particular federal court.
  • International Representation:
    For cases outside the United States, different rules apply, and the lawyer may need to comply with the foreign country's legal requirements or collaborate with local counsel.

It's important to discuss your specific situation with the lawyer to determine if they can represent you in the desired jurisdiction and what steps may be necessary to do so.

How to Check the Credibility of a Lawyer

Before hiring a lawyer, it's crucial to verify their credibility and ensure they're qualified to handle your case:

  • Verify Their License:
    Check with your state's bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed and in good standing. Most state bar websites have an online directory for this purpose.
  • Experience and Specialization:
    Ensure the lawyer specializes in the area of law relevant to your case. Review their website, professional profiles, and case history.
  • Disciplinary Record:
    Look up any history of disciplinary actions or complaints through the state bar association's records.
  • Client Reviews and Testimonials:
    Read reviews on legal directories like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, Google, or Yelp to gauge client satisfaction and experiences.
  • Professional Memberships:
    Membership in professional organizations or specialty bar associations can indicate a commitment to their field and adherence to high ethical standards.
  • Awards and Recognitions:
    Honors from reputable organizations reflect expertise and a positive reputation in the legal community.
  • Consultation Assessment:
    Use the initial consultation to evaluate their communication skills, responsiveness, and willingness to address your concerns.
  • Ask for References:
    A credible lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients who can speak to their abilities and professionalism.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your initial meeting with a lawyer, come prepared with:

  • Relevant Documents:
    Bring all documents related to your case, such as:
    • Contracts or agreements
    • Correspondence (emails, letters, texts)
    • Legal notices or court papers
    • Financial records (if applicable)
    • Evidence (photos, videos, receipts)
  • Written Summary:
    Prepare a concise written summary of your situation, including key dates, events, and parties involved. This helps the lawyer quickly understand the context.
  • List of Questions:
    Write down any questions you have about your case, the legal process, fees, or the lawyer's experience.
  • Financial Information:
    If your case involves financial matters, bring relevant documents like pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, or invoices.
  • Contact Information:
    Provide details of any witnesses or other parties relevant to your case, including their names and contact information.
  • Personal Identification:
    Bring a valid photo ID for verification purposes.
  • Pen and Notebook:
    Take notes during the consultation to remember important points discussed.
  • Budget Constraints:
    Be ready to discuss your budget and any financial limitations so the lawyer can provide appropriate guidance on fees and payment options.
  • Openness and Honesty:
    Be prepared to discuss your case candidly. Full disclosure allows the lawyer to give accurate advice and anticipate potential challenges.
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