Reviews
Overall rating
James
23 Aug, 2023
We hired Hirabayashi from a referral list given to us by DCFS. We had 3 adoptions that needed to be processed sooner than later so we opted to pay rather than wait for the “free one”. We sent off a check 2/17/23 and it was cashed 2 weeks later. He asked us for dates of availability for the next few months just in case so that he can schedule an adoption date but that it shouldn’t take too long. It was almost 3 months later that his office submitted the first form. We were told they were waiting on DCFS. Long story short, another few weeks go by and we found out they made an error on paperwork and they were resubmitting it. After that it we had to push to get an adoption date sooner than later. Paid the attorney in early February and adoption finalized last day of July due to errors on lawyers end. They first told us that they submitted the forms then they said they were going to submit the forms next week. Never got a straight answer from his secretary Nancy. Just a bunch of runaround. That’s when anyone answered the phone or even replied to an email.
After all said and done we look for a receipt or invoice stating what was paid and for what because my employer pays for all legal fees specific to adoption and we find that the “Adoption Expenses” form submitted to the court shows we haven’t paid yet which was filed nearly 3 months after we paid him. We ask for a receipt 3 times, 2 emails and one phone call, and on the third we get a copy of the original bill that says what we owe. Then Hirabayashi states, “Isn’t that the same thing?” Back and forth about him basically refusing to acknowledge he knows what I’m asking for. A simple receipt or invoice showing paid or better yet, be professional and supply an itemized invoice maybe.
Horrible experience from beginning to end. Wood not recommend. I truly believe he takes advantage of the fact that he’s on a list distributed by DCFS and he’ll get calls no matter what.
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Nadine
04 Aug, 2020
Mark was AMAZING!!! We tried for months on end to get our adoption finalized but never heard not once from our state appointed attorney.
We waited 4 months to hear from our attorney until someone told us about Mark, we decided to switch and try him.
With the whole Covid situation it slowed everything down to a screeching halt. Thankfully as soon as we switched to Mark he knew how to navigate the system to get our adoption finalized.
He was super communicative and we always knew where things stood. After waiting for 2 1/2 years and people telling us it would be another 1-1.5 yrs due to Covid, it took us a few months with Mark and everything got finalized. We couldn't thank him enough!! He has made our family finally feel settled and whole. Thank you Mark for all of your efforts we will never forget you ❤️❤️
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Katie
06 Jul, 2020
From the moment we contacted Mark's office, we were extremely pleased with his knowledge of procedures and attention to detail regarding the adoption of our two grandchildren. Every phone call and email were answered promptly and thoroughly. Mark worked diligently with us for months, explaining all of the forms needed and guided us through the new online process that took place in June 2020. I would highly recommend Mark Hirabayashi to anyone who is looking to adopt. We are so grateful for his service and his dedication. He was always helpful, friendly, and followed up on any item that required attention. Mahalo Mark. Your passion for the field is appreciated!
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Anonymous
28 Apr, 2017
If you are looking for a very professional attorney this is your guy . Mark helped us and got our adoption done very fast and made us feel very safe and welcomed . If I need to adopt again guess who I'm calling . Best lawyer in town . I would highly recommend him to anyone for any reason he is awesome !!!!!!'
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Orlando
16 Mar, 2017
When choosing a lawyer for our adoption, Mark came highly recommended by family members as well as friends. Mark or a member of his team always kept us informed every step of the way. He let us know what was going to happen and when. On our court date, Mark was there to go over paperwork and assist with any questions we may of had. When choosing your adoption attorney, I highly recommend Mark Hirabayashi.
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Tracee
13 Mar, 2017
Mark was great to work with. He had great communication throughout our process and was able to explain things in a way that we could understand as this was our first adoption and we will unfamiliar with the process.
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Doug keefe
08 Jun, 2016
We hired Mark back in 2002. We needed help adopting a young boy who was at risk. There where many challenges that made it seem impossible. Immediately after we hired Mark, he began knocking down barriers. He was always positive, upbeat and most important, he was always accessible. We are now ready to help another child in need and without hesitation we will be calling on the services of Mark. His service and knowledge is the best in the business. We will be leaving another review after our next adoption is complete. I have little doubt that he will yet again earn another five star rating.
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Eddie
04 Mar, 2016
My wife and I recently adopted 2 girls, 2 and 3 years of age. We couldn't be happier then to have worked with Mark and for him to represent our family during the adoption process. Not only is he a great attorney, but he is a great guy as well, an added bonus. The man really cares about his work and helping families like ours to navigate through the adoption process. Thank you Mark!
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Wendy
22 Feb, 2016
I engaged Mark Hirabayashi to finalize the adoption of my daughter. His office was professional and on top of all the details. They provided exactly the right amount of information and direction to complete the process making this the easiest part of the adoption by far. In court, Mark was personable and put us at ease. I highly recommend him as an adoption attorney.
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R & s henderson
30 Jan, 2016
We had an adoption, that other lawyers told us would be complicated and would have added expenses. We were so confused and almost hopeless. We found Mark through a referral and after speaking with him and explaining our situation, he offered the help that we desperately needed. He took the time to really understand our situation and he followed through with what he said he was going to do. Thanks to him, we are now a forever family! We would highly recommend Mark to anyone looking for an amazing and compassionate adoption attorney.
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Candice
18 Sep, 2015
We were Very pleased in hiring Mark in assisting us with the adoption of our daughter. He Communicated very well and was very professional. Mark showed that he cared in getting our adoption finalized. We would highly recommend him to anyone looking for an adoption attorney!
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Paul
02 Sep, 2015
Handled our adoption finalization. His office was on top of every step and responded quickly to our emails and calls. I recommend him highly. As an attorney myself, I appreciate that he is better than most. I did not know him before and hired him on word of mouth recommendation. I will refer him to others.
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