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30 Aug, 2019 by Brad
Emily handled a divorce matter in which I never thought I'd see myself embroiled. She was incredibly competent, listened well and counseled me through the evolving options and nuances of my case. When the matters became contentious, she maintained calm compassion and focused her efforts to bring the case to closure with great effectiveness and timeliness. This was legal representation at its finest!
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12 May, 2016 by Anonymous
She took over the case and handled it with dedication, follow through ,and exceptional customer service. She went above and beyond in a short period of time. Highly recommend her.
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22 Oct, 2021 by Kevin
Corrin handled my divorce. She is very responsive, usually returning my emails and calls the same day. She gave me great tips on what to ask for and what might damage my case. During the back and forth with the paperwork, Corrin went on vacation, but she got one of her associates to step in for her in case anything came up when she was not available. I wholeheartedly recommend her.
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19 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Corrin has stayed on top of my court case. She has been able to find and prove the truth when it was not apparent to others. I am very pleased with her services.
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22 Jun, 2015 by Shelby
Alex is professional, knowledgable and personal. Considering that divorced family dynamics can be a bit challenging at times, Alex was able to keep things in perspective in a constantly changing family dynamic and she often noticed things that I did not see being so wrapped up in the difficulty; because of this, she was able to help guide the process along with efficiency, capability, knowledge and understanding. I like that she is serious when required and necessary, but also has a dry sense of humor that comes out when appropriate. She is always approachable and helpful. I would highly recommend her.
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15 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I had an excellent experience with Alexandra Nowlin. I chose her after interviewing two other lawyers. She was very calm, kind, and very analytical. She was also realistic about the details of my divorce case. As we worked together I always found her and her staff to be very quick and thorough in all communications. She did a great job at guiding me to plan and prepare for my case. She was very attentive and thorough throughout the entire process. I felt extremely well prepared for my divorce mediation. She was also very emotionally supportive and truly knew me as a client when we entered mediation. I highly recommend her.
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17 Aug, 2022 by Kim
Mr. Gaukrkoger helped me greatly the same day I called him. He wrote a very effective letter that received positive results in less than 24 hours. I will most certainly use him again in the future.
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17 Nov, 2017 by Greg
I recently worked with Loren G Gaukroger on a complex and personal legal matter. Loren is a very fair minded and ethical individual. He pays attention to detail and treats his clients with respect. I was so fortunate to have him work me. I recommend him wholeheartedly to anyone who needs legal assistance.
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01 Sep, 2023 by Larry
Marissa Roldan took over my case mid-way and that was pending to be litigated in court in a very contentious lawsuit. She was able to bring the suit to arbitration and facilitate an out of court agreement, saving weeks and perhaps months of wrangling. Her professionalism and competence enabled an acceptable conclusion. I not only thank her, but I am also pleased to recommend her as a competent attorney.
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01 Sep, 2023 by Amy
Marissa helped me with the last (I hope) of a series of many family / parenting plan matters that Easley Law represented me on throughout the years.
Marissa quickly got up to speed on my case, the scope of the matter at hand, and the nuances and challenges with the opposing party.
Marissa provided solutions and counsel with creativity and realistic approaches with great competence. She managed opposing counsel with respect and collegiality, yet very adeptly and assertively on my case's behalf.
I also appreciate that Marissa was humble enough to research matters to ensure she had the latest and best information. My case included some uniqueness that required some extra research, and her assessment and subsequent strategy was right on, leaving opposing counsel's client without loopholes that were not in our child's best interest.
Marissa's was assertive yet tactful, and I feel that she effectively led the process along without excessive costs or time, despite backups and delays on the opposing side and large court backlogs.
When needed, Marissa could handily, kindly, and respectfully explain things that became frustrating or not realistic to me, and kept the case moving as effectively as possible. In other words, she quickly and effectively brought me "back down to earth" when things became intense, as it sometimes does in this process.
I know I got the best outcome without excessive billing. Most importantly, the interests of my child prevailed to the greatest extent possible, thanks to her superior work and support. We are forever grateful to Marissa, and also to everyone at Easley Law.
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08 Oct, 2020 by Jillian
Ms. Vaught-little was AMAZING!!!! She made me feel like I wasn’t alone in our case and I could tell she truly wanted the best for me. She was super approachable, extremely knowledgeable, personable, efficient, and organized. I’m so incredibly happy to have gone with her firm. Her paralegal and all staff were amazing as well!!!
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08 Oct, 2020 by Hope
Stephanie Vaught Little is a compassionate and trustworthy attorney who guided me through my divorce. My outcome was better than I expected.
I also hired her to update my will and durable power of attorney.
She and her staff were amazing and helped me every step of the way. I feel they were able to give me my life back.
I would hire Stephanie Vaught Little again in a heartbeat.
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25 Feb, 2022 by Dennis
I'm putting all my concerns in her...and I know she listens to my concerns...
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10 Sep, 2021 by A
Marvilyn was very kind and very honest with me. Her rate for me was fair. If I needed assistance again, I would go to her.
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30 Oct, 2014 by Jamie
Stephanie helped me with my divorce and really made the process as easy as it could be. She was extremely informative and honest. She was completely on top of the process the entire time. I would not have gotten through this awful event without her by my side!
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24 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Anyone can learn the law but Stephanie Winegrad helped me and my kids through very hard times. Stephanie practices law with me and my family at heart. In addition to being an expert in family law she has the highest morals and has compassion. I wouldn't be where I am today without Stephanie. She is one of a kind.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Jada
Marissa did a great job with handling my case! Dealing with the courts is stressful as it is, but Marissa was clear in her communication and she kept me informed throughout the process. She advocated for my cause and I’m happy with the results! Please see Marissa for legal counsel she’s approachable, will answer all your questions and get you in the right direction!
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21 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Marissa did an excellent job handling my case. She clearly communicated the paperwork I needed to gather and complete, kept me updated on the case, and explained some of the intricacies of navigating the court systems that made me feel a lot better about the entire process. I highly recommend working with her!
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13 Mar, 2024 by Anabel
Certainly! Here are a few sample reviews for attorney consultation:
."I cannot recommend Ormond Law enough for a consultation. Allison was incredibly knowledgeable, attentive, and compassionate throughout the entire process. Allison and her team patiently answered all of my questions and provided valuable insights into my legal situation. I left the consultation feeling informed and empowered. Thank you!"
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13 Mar, 2024 by Thomas
Allison was great and helped us through our family law matter in Moorestown. She was very professional throughout the process which made it very easy for us. Her well mannered demeanour made our time with her very smooth.
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02 Jul, 2016 by Cristina
I hired Darren to represent me in a custody battle. I had hired 2 other lawyers prior to him, but he was the only lawyer that I found that paid attention to all of the details of the case and gave me the time needed to understand the facts. I would, without doubt, hire him again.
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23 Jun, 2015 by Adly
I recommend him to everyone, I hired Mr. Darren maybe over two months ago and he did a very nice work. I pretty much got everything I ask for especially I will have my daughter most of the time. I'm a father and I pretty much have 70 percent of my daughter. He find my mistakes and certain paperwork I thought I did but I didn't do he fix it immediately. I am pleased with his work he know what he doing. I am happy with the results and my child support went down 70 percent. I am almost done with this child custody battle. And also his prices was very reasonable
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04 Apr, 2024 by Jeremy
Very great experience with the Lacoste Team. They were thorough and helped me out every step of the way.
Thank You so much!
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20 Mar, 2024 by Jeymi
Jennifer and her whole team were very helpful through such a stressing process. They always made sure to keep me in the loop and answer every question I had. They make sure to listen to their clients needs and fight to get them the best outcome possible. Jennifer really cares about her clients and goes above and beyond. I would definitely recommend her.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Hilary
Megan was outstanding during my custody dispute and subsequent child support modification in 2023. Not only did she support me from a legal standpoint and give me transparent advice of all options in helping me gain full physical custody of my teenage daughter, but she was empathetic and supportive on an emotional level as well. I’d happily and confidently hire Megan again should I need additional post-divorce legal advice or representation.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Nicole
I hired Megan in 2023 to assist with my divorce. She was helpful when I had questions and was supportive when I was spinning out of control. Going through a divorce is stressful, frustrating, and mentally exhausting. Megan was there to support me evey step of the way. She is passionate about her clients and wants the best for them. You won't only have the support of Megan but you'll also have the support of her Paralegal Christian who is just as wonderful as Megan. I appreciate all the hard work and support throughout the years!!!
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01 May, 2016 by Sharon
Divorce is one of the most difficult decisions that too many people have to make. The day I met Erica, was the day that I knew everything would be o.k. I found her to be very supportive, conscientious, caring, knowledgeable of the ins and outs of divorce and child custody, as well as very thorough. She made sure that I understood what was expected of me, and what I should expect from her. She was cognizant of my financial situation, and was willing to work with me to try and keep costs down as much as she could.
My divorce was painful, yet healing. It’s been a little over 2 years since I first met Erica. We’ve stayed in touch, and I am forever grateful for her time and efforts to get my children and I where we are today.
Should you find yourself in the position of impending divorce, I highly recommend you consider contacting Erica G. Brown as your representative. She truly is one of a kind.
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24 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Erica was an incredible advocate for me during a very complex, excessively long and exhausting divorce. She listened to me, understood my position on certain things, worked to make sure my interests were represented, and was always conscious of keeping my legal costs down (picking the right battles). She continues to look out for me and make recommendations as the residual details of the judgement are finalized.
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26 Mar, 2015 by Debbie
I have known Sadiki for years and I have sought her legal advice from the first day we met. Whether it's divorce, child support, bankruptcy, accidents, etc. If she does not handle it, she will find you someone who does. She was a friend in the beginning, now she is family. It's just comforting to have a person like her in your corner in trying legal times because she cares and you will realize that when you meet her. Sadiki is a lawyer for the People, all People...
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29 Jun, 2014 by A mike mammarelli
She put in many hours in order to give me different points of view of which path I should go. After her counseling me I truly believe I made the right choice. Her expertise was greatly appreciated and followed. I would recommended Ms. Alexander- Lynch to anybody who needed professional input to make a educated decision. Many thanks to her.
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17 Sep, 2013 by Amanda
I have had Christopher Coen as a laywer and legal consultant for a year. He is professional, knowledgable and committed. He makes sure you are receiving the information you need in a timely and efficient manor. I have had nothing but positive outcomes to my legal needs. His professional demeanor and caring outlook is hard to find in this business.
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17 Sep, 2013 by Jonathan
Chris met with me and prepared my will and medical proxy on short notice when I had to go in for surgery. He is very IT friendly he scanned many of my documents and put others on a CD for safe keeping. He returns calls and emails promptly
Chris is very well organized.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Samantha
Liz and her team have been amazing. I’ve been fighting a custody case for over 3 years and although it’s been a lengthy and torturous process dealing with my narcissistic ex, we’ve reached a best possible outcome this far. I’m extremely grateful for her attention to detail, timely responses and understanding for my situation. She is someone you can trust and know she has your best interest. Thank you again for everything you’ve done and continue to do as we still have a long road ahead of us.
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13 Jan, 2022 by Christine
I have been a client of Liz Wakeman from 2006-2021, as a result of a very litigious ex-husband. Having worked with her for 15 years, I can say unequivocally that she is both an excellent attorney and an outstanding human being. She combines professional expertise with deep and genuine care for her client and those affected by the divorce; in my case, this meant that she prioritized what was best for me and my children. My experience with other attorneys, who often pay more attention to finances than anything else, confirms that this is a special quality of the Wakeman Law Group. Liz is knowledgeable of family practice case law as well as interpersonal dynamics, so she is always striving to de-escalate tensions and reach amicable settlements. In cases where mediating and reaching mutual agreement is impossible because of the recalcitrance of opposing counsel, she is knowledgeable of family case law and effective in trial situations. During the 15 years that I worked with her, she prevailed in court repeatedly while maintaining the highest ethical standards. I am very loyal to Liz and have come to consider her a friend who cares about my welfare and that of my children. The team Liz has recruited is also exceptional; of special note, she has an extremely reliable paralegal who is always available for consultation when Liz is occupied in court. For those searching for a divorce attorney, I would encourage you to ask yourself what kind of person you would like representing you in court. Your attorney is a reflection of you to the judges, to opposing council, and to all the members of your family who are affected by your divorce. I have not regretted choosing Liz – a kind, ethical, and intelligent attorney – to represent me for the past fifteen years.
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01 Jun, 2022 by Lee ramirez
29 Aug, 2020 by Tara saldivar
30 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Michell took care of everything and anything my case needed and guided me through it with excellent advice! The hearing was a breeze with Michell by my side and I am so happy with the outcome. Thankful to have been recommended to her.
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28 Oct, 2020 by Jonathan
I cannot recommend Michell highly enough! After hiring two lawyers before hiring Michell, I soon realized that finding legal aptitude is not easy. Having the wrong lawyer on your team can be frustrating and costly. From the very first phone call, Michell listened intently to my legal plight, which had become an extraordinarily complex and elaborate situation inside the court. Michell always listened to understand, and she communicated clearly in a way that I always felt well taken care of. Ultimately, Michell was able to argue my case during a motion for reconsideration, and it was successfully overturned. Vacating previous orders in Family Court is not an easy thing to accomplish! I will continue to work with Michell and highly recommend her services. Thank you, Michell, for the peace of mind you have afforded me since starting to work with you. I am grateful to have found you!
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24 Jul, 2017 by Eli
Excellence in communication,highest standard in writing and discussing contracts.They are very fast in reacting to difficult problems,giving solutions,
Even being away on vacation, they would answer phone calls and emails at any time
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25 Jun, 2012 by Rc
Mr. Bergman handled my divorce and I feel he was G-d sent. Not only did he make my ex-husband's attorney look like an novice (which he is not) in every hearing but he truly placed my child's best interest in mind the whole time. This man is the true definition of "old school" law, where people respect each other, treat other with kindness and place ethics above all.
He is a bulldog none or less, someone you want to have by your side in any litigation or mediation process and but he is always thinking 10 moves ahead.
I highly recommend him and his partner Mr. Jacobs.
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09 Jan, 2016 by Claire
She would definitely make a great consult. I had no clue where, how, or when and she helped me easily through every process! She made sure I was well prepared before I ever needed to worry about being ready. She is just an awesome, awesome lawyer and a great down to earth person. Sara made sure I have every resource at my disposal. I would not even hesitate to come back to her for my other legal needs!
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24 Oct, 2013 by Philip
Ms. Pitcher assisted us with adoption related documents a couple of times and did outstanding work. Her passion for her work and personal touch made us much more comfortable and confident in working through a complicated process. With her help, two orphans got a forever family.
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21 Aug, 2020 by Natalie
Mrs. Harris has represented me both with my business and person and I have gotten positive results every time. She goes above and beyond for her clients. Mrs. Harris gives her clients more than they pay for. Above all, she owns her client's problems, she is reliable, smart, and honest. She is simply the best!!!
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24 Jan, 2020 by Nardia
Thessica is a honest and dedicated person. She is smart and very educated. She uses her knowledge with accuracy. And her outcomes are very noticeable.she has represented me in all three areas of her expertise. I have and will always refer clients to her. Ms. Graham
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01 Jun, 2022 by Lee ramirez
29 Aug, 2020 by Tara saldivar
14 Dec, 2019 by Joseph muzaurieta
03 Apr, 2018 by Carter
Nicole was amazing. Got me through a very difficult situation. I highly recommend her.
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19 Nov, 2021 by Savitha
I worked with Zoe when she was still a law clerk in Barbra Black's firm. She helped me understand the financials, something i had a lot of trouble getting my head around.
Zoe has great attention to detail and follows up on tasks. She became a lawyer while still working on my case! I was very comfortable working with her.
Zoe brought calm to my chaotic situation and that helped me during my contentious divorce! I strongly recommend Zoe! She is awesome.
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15 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I was so lucky that Zoe joined the Black Law Group just as my case began. Zoe is smart, empathic, diligent, and a great communicator. Zoe's and Barbara's outstanding legal expertise and kindness made the stress of going through this with a crazy ex-spouse bearable. I will be forever grateful for their help and would want them as friends if we had met under other circumstances!
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03 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
When you need an attorney for divorce, child support etc (as a petitioner or respondent) you need a professional that is able to listen to what you need and want and work for it, Nabila is the person that will always be clear since day one and will do everything in her power to make sure you are satisfied with her service. I highly recommend her!
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06 Feb, 2018 by Yara
Ms. Torres handled my case with care and utmost professionalism. She takes her time when reviewing a case to ensure she is well prepared for a hearing.
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15 Nov, 2016 by Paige
Randal handled my divorce and a assault charge. He is very professional and has a great sense of humor.
Both cases where done quickly and had great results.
I would recomend Mr. Hughes to anyone needing a wonderful professional attorney.
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10 Oct, 2016 by Mina
Randal has been my attorney regarding my divorce and contempt orders twice and has been great to work with. We both got the results we wanted and i would work with him again in the future if need be.
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25 Nov, 2014 by Jerald
Over a 2 year period I was represented by Catherine Byrne and found the experience to a good one when it came to representation. She was prompt, detailed and always well prepared in her presentation. What I found most enlightning was responsiveness in getting to know me as a father and not just a client. I think this helped a great deal in how she approached the representation.
She was able to make things happen, get us in and out of court and have all issues addressed. Catherine is well respected in family court and always treated the process with respect.
She is truly a caring attorney and I have already recommended her. I know that through this entire ordeal I felt safe and that I was being represented by someone who had the best interest of me and my children at the top of the list.
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30 Oct, 2014 by Becca
Catherine is a fantastic attorney! She is extremely knowledgeable in family law, well known and respected amongst her peers and is dedicated to winning. She's definitely worth the money!
Catherine took on my case knowing that it would be an uphill battle. She and her staff were great keeping me informed and always sent me emails AND hard copies of all motions and responses that she filed on my behalf. She is a dedicated attorney that spent a tremendous amount of time on my case. She is aggressive, determined and results oriented. Cases can get very costly, especially if your case goes to trial. However, I don't believe Catherine deliberately bills hours to inflate cost. On the contrary, in my case, Catherine fought hard to resolve my case however my ex-husband and his attorney keep prolonging our case by being uncooperative, unresponsive and unwilling to negotiate. My case did indeed go to trial. During my trial, Catherine came in fully prepared with facts, documents, and case law that backed up each argument. She was focused, prepared, and confident! As I sat in court, I remember thinking how glad I was that I had her on my side! As a result or her knowledge, hard work and dedication, we were victorious!
The bottom line is when you are going through the process of selecting an attorney, your really do get what you pay for! And, it's equally as important to note, that - as a client - you get what you give. Without question, it behooves clients to be COMPLETELY honest & forthright with Catherine and provided her with all the facts and the information she requests in a timely fashion. By providing her with the information she needed quickly, she was able to work efficiently and focus on the law and how it applied to my case.
I honestly can't say enough great things about Ms. Byrne. She has looked out for me and my family since day one and I hold her in the highest regard. She has a perfect mix of integrity & Hootzpa. In a world still greatly dominated by men, she definitely holds her own in a court room. If your looking for a strong, well-spoken, dedicated and hard working attorney that is looking to do what is right, then without question Ms. Catherine Byrne is the attorney for you!
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26 May, 2021 by Ro
Let’s face it, divorce and separation is never easy, yet Rachael did an incredible job helping us find a middle ground on issues and provided guidance for making things amicable.
In the end we both got what we wanted and through Rachael’s legal advice, we were able to move forward with our lives.
I could not be happier with her services.
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25 May, 2021 by Allison
We used Rachael for years against my husbands exwife. From child support, to the custody schedule, to ongoing disputes (ie educational and residential concerns) Rachael got us what we wanted every single time. I refer her to everyone I know in need of family law support.
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31 Aug, 2021 by Juni
I was in search of an attorney to help me with a mortgage assumption (transferring my mortgage loan to a family member) and was pretty confused about what I even needed help doing. I was referred to the office from a realtor friend. Elizabeth answered my email super quickly and was right to work helping me get started. Although Elizabeth had informed me she and her office colleagues are not in the realm of mortgage assumptions - she did help me tremendously. Enough so that I’m sad she couldn’t help me all the way - I know she would have done a wonderful job if she were able to. Thank You Elizabeth!
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19 Jul, 2021 by Katrina
Elizabeth Dalton handled the closing of our home and I would recommend her to anyone needing a real estate lawyer. She answered all of our questions and was very timely with responses to phone calls, texts, or emails!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Child Support Lawyer Can Do for You
A child support lawyer specializes in legal issues related to the financial support that one parent provides to another for the upbringing of their children. These lawyers assist with establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders, ensuring that the financial needs of the child are met, including housing, food, healthcare, education, and other essentials. A child support lawyer can also represent parents in disputes over the amount of support, ensure fair calculations based on income, and handle legal proceedings if one parent fails to meet their obligations.
Whether you're seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or enforce payments, a child support lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights and the well-being of your child.
When Should I Hire a Child Support Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child support lawyer when you need assistance with any of the following child support matters:
- Establishing child support: If you are going through a divorce or separation and need to establish a child support order, a lawyer can help ensure that the support amount is fair and accurately calculated.
- Modifying child support orders: If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, income change, or a child's financial needs, a lawyer can help you request a modification to the existing child support order.
- Enforcing child support payments: If the other parent has failed to make court-ordered child support payments, a lawyer can help enforce the order through legal means such as wage garnishment, property liens, or even legal action.
- Disputing child support calculations: If you believe the child support amount has been incorrectly calculated based on your income or expenses, a lawyer can help you challenge the calculation and seek a fair adjustment.
- Paternity disputes: If paternity needs to be established before child support can be ordered, a lawyer can assist with DNA testing and legal proceedings.
- Interstate child support cases: If the parents live in different states, navigating child support laws can be complex. A lawyer can help ensure the proper jurisdiction is established and that child support is enforced across state lines.
- Child support during custody disputes: If child custody and child support are being determined simultaneously, a lawyer can help ensure that both issues are resolved fairly and in the best interest of the child.
Hiring a lawyer early can help ensure that your child support case is handled effectively and that your child's financial needs are met.
What Does a Child Support Lawyer Do?
A child support lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents secure, modify, and enforce child support arrangements. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing for child support: A lawyer can help you initiate the legal process to obtain a child support order, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and deadlines are met.
- Calculating child support: A lawyer can help ensure that child support is calculated fairly based on both parents' incomes, the needs of the child, and other factors such as healthcare and education costs.
- Negotiating child support agreements: If both parents are willing to negotiate, a lawyer can help facilitate an agreement on child support outside of court, which can then be approved by a judge.
- Representing you in court: If negotiations fail or the other parent contests the child support amount, a lawyer will represent you in family court, presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Modifying support orders: A lawyer can help you file a request for modification if circumstances change, such as a loss of income or an increase in the child’s financial needs.
- Enforcing child support: If the other parent is not making court-ordered payments, a lawyer can take legal steps to enforce the order through wage garnishment, property liens, or other measures.
- Handling complex cases: In cases involving high incomes, self-employment, or complicated financial situations, a lawyer can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered in determining child support.
How Are Child Support Lawyers Paid?
Child support lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work required. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child support lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. The total cost will depend on how much time the lawyer spends on your case, including preparation, negotiations, and court appearances.
- Flat fee: For more straightforward cases, such as uncontested child support agreements or basic modifications, some lawyers may offer a flat fee that covers all services related to the case.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount of the retainer depends on the expected complexity of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or provide pro bono (free) services in cases where clients cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially when children’s needs are at stake.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are covered.
How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child support lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it's contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested child support cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and the lawyer’s fees.
- Contested child support cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, especially if the case involves significant court time.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for child support cases, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases that involve complex financial issues.
- Modification or enforcement: Fees for modifying or enforcing a child support order may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity and the need for court intervention.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Support Lawyer
Before hiring a child support lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with child support cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support orders. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and any potential challenges you may face. -
How long will the process take?
Child support cases can take time, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors may cause delays. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
What documents should I prepare?
Ask the lawyer what financial documents and other information you should bring to help them calculate child support and build your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Support Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child support lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and have successfully handled child support 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 the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on child support matters.
- Check for certifications: Some lawyers may have certifications in family law or membership in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), which can indicate their expertise in child support and family law issues.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a child support lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Income documents: Bring pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or any other documentation of your income and the other parent’s income, as this will be used to calculate child support.
- Existing child support orders: If there are any existing child support or custody orders, bring copies for the lawyer to review.
- Child-related expenses: Provide documentation of your child’s medical bills, education expenses, daycare costs, and any other expenses that should be factored into the child support calculation.
- Communication with the other parent: Bring any communication between you and the other parent regarding child support, whether through emails, text messages, or written agreements.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions about your case, the legal process, and the lawyer’s fees.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
