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18 May, 2019 by Jerry
We can’t say thank you enough to Kory. He took care of everything from start to finish. He is bold and will stand up for you and your kids. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a CPS lawyer. Anyone facing false accusations should contact Kory he will definitely point you in the right direction.
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29 Nov, 2018 by Sara turner
Hes spent many years defending me and my children and asked very little in return .He genuinely cares about the safety of children and their families. Thank you , Kory.
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06 Jan, 2023 by Krista s.
David has been our family's legal counsel for several years. He has helped us navigate divorce, custody, and other domestic matters seamlessly. David is consistent, transparent, a critical thinker, and is highly respected in the community and valued by our family. David is an advocate and has worked diligently to see our case(s) to success from beginning to end. Thomas Family Law, LLC is highly recommended.
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26 Jul, 2016 by Matthew burford
16 Oct, 2019 by Marquel
Without the hard work of Anthony my circumstances could have been worse, since the first day I spoke to him I felt that he always had the best intentions for me, and he also understood how these charges could reflect on my future career so with that being said this guy is a top of the line attorney I was grateful he was appointed to me and in the near future I plan on utilizing his talents once again to settle my expungements.
- Thank you again Anthony and I appreciate everything brother!
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16 Oct, 2019 by John
Anthony was just incredible handling my case. He was very professional and listened to my concerns. Living in Florida and having to hire an attorney outside of the state was a little frustrating but hiring Anthony was absolutely the right person to help my family. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to have him represent me.
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11 Oct, 2022 by Leann
Assistance provided was with Restraining order and Custody concerns.
I had made several calls and consulted with many attorneys before asking Emily to represent me. I have been working with Emily for almost a year if not more. It was very difficult for me to hire an attorney because there is much to consider like communication, price, availability, experience, etc.
I must say, I am pleased that Emily Peterson was able to pick me up as a client.
She helped me with obtaining a restraining order and dealing with a custody issue. The restraining order was incredibly nerve wracking yet, Emily made the process better and gave me other resources to use in addition to her. She maintained a quick turnaround to answer my questions and calls. She was encouraging and provided me with honest feedback. I knew what my choices were and what could happen by selecting those choices.
I was incredibly impressed and satisfied with our interaction. We did everything electronically, this helped me tremendously. I have already recommended her to others. I am especially happy that I didn’t have the stress of dealing with attorney who was not communicating back with me. She was organized, diligent, and responsive.
I will continue to recommend her and will absolutely use Emily again if I should need to.
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25 Oct, 2021 by Eileen
I would not have made it through what was undoubtedly the most difficult year of my life, without Emily. I am sure there isn’t a short supply of competent attorneys in the Twin Cities, but I am not sure many are as compassionate and committed as Emily. Her expertise and legal acumen were critical in the process in reaching the best possible outcome. But, it was her kindness and unending support that also got me through. She is very hardworking. Emily was incredibly responsive. Getting back to me quickly and at all hours of the day. She always made me feel like a top priority. There were days I would call or email 20 plus times, she never made me feel like an inconvenience, the opposite I always felt valued. There were no dumb questions. Emily walked me through every step of the way. She made a daunting and scary process so much easier for me. In the end, I walked away with the most optimal agreement possible. I highly recommend Emily Peterson, she is an excellent attorney and wonderful person.
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07 Mar, 2019 by Job
I hired chuck to represent me in my child custody case and he has been exceptional. He is very forward and honest about the process and his reasoning on the way he is proceeding. He clearly has the best interest of his clients and the impact it has on all parties. He is very knowledgeable in the entire process and has guided me through every step and given me counsel on how to proceed with many situations.
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07 Mar, 2019 by Jodi
Chuck is very diligent, knowledgeable and available whenever I need him. He has performed legal assistance for me in a variety of levels including; reviewing contracts, making recommendations on by-laws and writing by-laws for my organization as well as assistance with eCommerce issues. Chuck has represented me both in business and personally. Chuck is also very knowledgeable on patent legalities and am planning to utilize his talents as needed in this area. Chuck is certainly an attorney to keep in your address book and call the minute he is needed.
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21 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
kelly took my post divorce case and was excellent she was knowledgeable, and caring. Kelly is lawyer you would definitely want to hire, I am very grateful for her help in this legal matter.
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02 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Kelly went above and beyond to get the best outcome for my case. I switched to Kelly after working with an incompetent attorney who attempted to coerce me into settling. I had sole custody of my son (who has Asperger's) for 6 1/2 years. After I recently remarried, my son's father brought me back to court for joint custody and increased visitation. Kelly fought hard, and the end result is that I maintain sole custody of my son and my son's father was mandated to an alcohol and drug treatment program (which he failed to complete) with his visitation REDUCED to four hours per week in a public venue. It is extremely stressful when you are advocating for your child. Kelly is highly responsive, honest and hard working. She knows the law, the court system and the players. She gets the job done with excellence. I will always be grateful. I highly recommend her.
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08 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend Amy. She is efficient, practical and easy to work with.
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22 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Amy, she has been my lawyer for years (long process divorce & custody).
She is available for her clients above and beyond.
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14 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Melchoir was the first attorney we contacted who knew exactly how to handle an adoption from Nebraska. This was a relative, whose mother was unable to care for her son and whose birth father had never met him. He handled every step with integrity and respect, ensuring that both birth parents fully understood their individual decisions to relinquish their rights AND had their own separate legal representation so there could be no challenges against the adoption in the future. Handling an adoption across state lines is particularly cumbersome, and he made it seem easy (after multiple other attorneys seemed confused and muddled). Mr. Melchoir made it possible for a lost little boy to be adopted into our loving home.
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26 Apr, 2015 by Kevin
I hired Steve when my ex wife moved out of state and expected to take our children with Her. I appreciated the fact that Steve had a plan from the beginning, he clearly knew how to win and did so with integrity. He was always responsive to my questions and in the end, he helped me gain full custody of my three children. He was very expensive, but he was worth it. I can never thank him enough.
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15 Oct, 2014 by Zach
Retained Wayne on a personal injury matter.
Very smart and knowledgeable, one of the few lawyers who actually knows his information and did great in my court case. Resulting in a heft settlement
Experience was also great i highly recommend him for any matter
He is now helping me with my sons ongoing criminal case.
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16 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
I used this attorney for all of my divorce matters, and also a few criminal matters. He has handled my divorce very well. He is a very smart man and always knowledgeable. He will treat you like you are the most important case to him. He also put a lot of time and work Into each client. I have recommended him to family and friends and they all say the same thing. This man KNOWS HIS STUFF! I will never use anyone else.
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30 Aug, 2016 by Dan
Hiring Tiffany was one of the best decisions I made during my custody battle. She is very knowledgeable in her field and had plenty of great suggestions for me along the way. Any question I had I would just send her an email and she responded very quickly with an answer. She is very organized and on task and an extremely nice person. She always told me when she thought what I wanted was plausible and when she thought that I might not have much of a leg to stand on. This was all new to me so I went with what she thought and I do not regret it. Everything I originally wanted in my custody agreement I was granted and I could not be happier. As bad as things were I always knew I had someone with the know-how that I could trust in my corner.
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17 Aug, 2016 by Tammy
I had Tiffany for my Support Hearing. She was EXTREMELY organized and very knowledgeable with the rules. I would HIGHLY recommend her as your lawyer. She is very down to earth and honest. I had a great experience with her as my lawyer. I was very nervous with going to Court. She was very calm and confident. Having her represent me in Court was a blessing. I would recommend her to anyone. She made my time in Court much easier. Thank you Tiffany !!!!!
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08 Feb, 2024 by Amritpal nat
I m truck driver got traffic tickets in Pennsylvania Ashley saved my license got tickets dismissed they are professionals highly recommended.
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20 Nov, 2020 by Capo thedon
Ashley represented me today in a matter where i was facing jail time plus a license suspension. Not only did she keep my freedom but also saved my license. The odds were against me but she persevered. She is a very professional, attentive lawyer. HIGHLY recommend.
Josh G.
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06 May, 2014 by Marty
Mr. Feliccia handled my divorce case,he was very knowledgeable of the facts, and at the same time made me feel very comfortable and at ease. He was always readily available and his honesty and loyalty is something very rare in this proffession. He's a fighter, and always protected my interests. I highly recommend Mr Feliccia.
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07 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
My divorce / custody case was dragging on for many years. A divorce case is a civil case, unless it turns criminal. Mr. Fileccia and his legal team uncovered criminal behavior on behalf of a former attorney, and other attorney’s that were actively involved in the case. His quick action brought this case to a screeching halt in my favor. He is an honest and trustworthy attorney; his integrity can not be compromised. I highly recommend Robert Fileccia to protect you in a civil or criminal action, state and federal
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29 Mar, 2015 by Bill
I found David to understand my needs very quickly and to thoroughly pursue the best remedy to resolve those issues. He would always contact me to keep me informed on the latest developments in the case. it was a great relief to know David Levy represented me.
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26 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Levy and Obstarczyk handled my legal matter. They were very prompt, responsive, and honest with me throughout my case. I highly recommend this firm!
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12 Jul, 2019 by Larry
Mr. King just represented me in a very difficult and complex family court case, He was EXCELLENT !!! Came to court prepared and knew the facts of my case and the law cold. This showed as he did a great job arguing on my behalf in front of the Judge, He was honest, diligent, took my case and ran with it, zealously representing me. I would definitely use him again, although I hope I never have to :) :) Feel free to contact me, if thinking of retaining him.
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29 May, 2013 by Anonymous
I got charged with aggravated harassment, 2nd degree comm/alarm. I decided to hire this lawyer as a risk, and he was VERY forth coming with my case with honesty, integrity, and dignity. He was very honest about the outcome of the case although he doesn't promise anything, but can lessen the charge to a much lower degree.
I went to court and this fantastic was able to lower the charge from Misdemeanor Class A to ACD (Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal); I gladly took it and I was overjoyed!!! No fines, community service, and/or prison time! FANTASTIC LAWYER! HIGHLY RECOMMEND FOR DISABLED PEOPLE!!!!!
Keep in mind, he doesn't make any promises but his guarantee is pretty much golden as stated.
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15 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
she handled my family law case excellent, I well definetly use her again thank you for your passion for the law
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15 Apr, 2014 by Robert
I live out of state and sold property from my father's estate. Jo handled the entire process professionally and efficiently. She kept me completely informed at every step in the process and resolved several problems quickly and completely. I never had to set a foot in her office.
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17 Feb, 2015 by Alissa
There is no enjoyable pleasant court case, and Robin gave me so much support during this divorce that everything went smoothly till the end. She followed through with to the end even when theother side hired scum bag lawyers that tried to twist the truth. Robin Kantor's ethics and authenticity shined through out and the truth stood in the end. I do not believe another lawyer could have handled this complex and challenging case as well as she did. I am grateful to have met Robin.
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07 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Robin was by far the most incredible lawyer I've ever dealt with. She was kind, thoughtful, and so comprehensive in her practice. Not only did she avoid litigation in most of my separation issues, she got me above and beyond anything I expected from my divorce. She worked incredibly diligently, and is on great terms with many of the judges and attorneys in the county. If you are going through a divorce, separation, or have problems with alimony, child support, or any of these family and divorce issues I would absolutely recommend Robin!
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25 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired for order of protection case and it was resolved quickly to my satisfaction. Would recommend to others
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11 Aug, 2014 by Jane
I had a wonderful experience when I obtained Ms. Nichols services, I found her to be very informative and patient when dealing with my unusual circumstances. I would highly recommend her legal advice.
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14 Jun, 2022 by Melissa
I would highly recommend Steven Grocott to anyone looking to hire a divorce attorney. He is extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of the law concerning divorce. He is very good about educating the client regarding all of the options to be considered and presents them in such a way that you can make the best decisions in regards to your own situation. He does all of this very professionally with compassion and the space to thoroughly think through your decisions. Divorce is not easy, but Steven walked me through the process feeling as though he always had my best interest at heart and I would walk away with a fair outcome which I did.
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07 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
If you are looking for an attorney who puts 100% of his time and effort into your case look no further. Mr. Grocott was able to untangle one the most complicated custody cases in history that involved multiple jurisdictions in four different states. In addition to being trustworthy and knowledgeable he is compassionate, which is a rare quality for the legal profession these days. I highly recommend Mr. Grocott's services.
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14 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Don as a divorce attorney. I am so happy I had Don representing me in my case as he helped me achieve a very desirable outcome with my divorce in all aspects including child custody, alimony and equitable distribution. He listens and makes sure he understands your personal situation and then does an outstanding job of representing you when engaged in legal discussions and negotiations.
He always made time for me, was very responsive and I felt very confident throughout the process. In addition to his expertise in divorce law, custody law and support law, as a husband and parent, he really connects with you and provides great guidance on personal decisions you need to make. He really helped me and again, I highly recommend Don.
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08 Feb, 2008 by Anonymous
My husband and I have used this lawyer from 2003 til the present. We will no longer be needing his assistance with the custody case since the adoption papers are being filed. We have given his information out and have informed that I have seen other lawyers and he is the ONLY one I feel comfortable and confident in! The staff there are soo informative and helpful and respectful. My biggest thanks goes out to them for all the help they provided us when ever we needed them. If you are looking for a lawyer, contact Don.
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15 Nov, 2017 by Jeff
Pat is an excellent attorney to work with as a client. She is very realistic about what the "end game" is going to look like from the start and communicates that to the client. She builds a strategy for getting to that end game with the client from the initial consult, encourages proactive disclosure and negotiations to facilitate that legal strategy and refuses to let emotional responses or motions from opposing counsel get in the way of getting to that goal with her client. She is a worthy litigator who knows the court and works hard in her client's interest, again focused on the pathway to the end game discussed in those initial consults. She also was able to make adjustments on the fly as required to keep the case moving efficiently. Most importantly, Pat was able to explain the process both overall and at each step along the way in a way that helped me understand how the puzzle would come together, the variances introduced by each judge involved, and helped me remain confident that we were progressing to a workable conclusion. Finally, she never used her position as my counsel to increase my anxiety about the divorce and the actions of my ex spouse or her attorney, rather she always dampened those emotions and kept me focused on constuctively ending the failed marriage in the best interests of me and my children. I would highly recommend Pat and her firm, which also was extremely supportive throughout the process.
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27 Jan, 2016 by Michael
I originally consulted with Patricia and then engaged her once I had made the determination that I would move forward with a divorce. I found Patricia to be very responsive, professional and she consistently assured that I understood the process and what the implications were when alternative paths and/or positions needed to be decided upon. She would also provide her thoughts as to what direction to take which I appreciated immensely. Most importantly, she always gave me the sense that she truly cared about me and my situation and that she was always looking out for my best interests. I found her to be a strong but fair negotiator and very capable in assuring that initial agreements made, between the parties, were translated appropriately into the formal documents. I am extremely happy with the way Patricia and her staff have handled my divorce. I would highly recommend her to anyone in need of family matter legal counsel.
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17 Oct, 2019 by Judy
Every case she did for me was done in a timely matter-divorce-will-deeds,and always good advice! I have no issues against her,only great respect!
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13 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Always took the time to listen and address all concerns I had. Let me know what was worth pursuing and what wasn't. Didn't just nickle and dine me to death financially. I always felt she was looking out for my best interests.
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09 Mar, 2014 by Michael
I have nothing but good things to say about Karen and her firm. She helped me throughout a tough time in my life and even went above and beyond in her work. If anyone asks me for a family law attorney, I would recommend them to see Karen.
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14 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
Karen represented me in family law matter about 4 years ago, and I found her to be trustworthy and knowledgeable. She has also represented several of my family members and friends. I personally have recommended her to many, many people. In fact, I am also an attorney, and I often am asked for names of family law attorneys. Whenever my clients need someone who specializes in Family law, I feel more than comfortable giving them her name.
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04 Nov, 2019 by Kathleen
Mr. Houghton is a compassionate lawyer who cares not only about the case but also his clients. He explained the law in a way that we were able to understand and we were comfortable with the process and knew what to expect. Our family was pleased with the outcome of our case and if needed, I would not hesitate to call him again.
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28 Apr, 2018 by Jesse
I will just simply say I’m very impressed by Mr. Houghton. I have been with other law firms and will never go to any other.. He is a good listener and a very nice guy... very knowledgeable on a variety of legal topics.. he’s caring, honest, always in constant contact... always thinks of the best options for my family and I... I would more than highly recommend him and this firm. There is no reason to go to anyone else!!
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02 Apr, 2014 by Tom
John was extremely helpful during a stressful transition in my life and I'd highly recommend him as a very trustworthy and honest attorney. The quick, professional manner in which he conducted his practice helped reassure me I was in the right hands from day one. If you need trusted legal help with family law issues, I'd definitely recommend Mr. Bee.
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23 Aug, 2013 by Todd
My review of Mr. John Bee is that he provided excellent legal service. He is knowledgable in his field and very professional. His work was thorough and he was able to communicate his ideas effectively. He does quality work and responds to questions in a timely matter. I was very happy with his legal service.
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08 Nov, 2017 by Stephen p.
I would recommend and refer potiential clients for family law to Shah Law Firm .The staff is excellent they're always prompt and on top of everything . Kristen A. Bojarski is a top notched family law Esquire that really helped me resolve my family legal matters with favorable results .
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21 Jun, 2017 by Ashley
I would highly recommend Kristen as an attorney! She is very knowledgeable, experienced, and professional. She fought hard in court for me during my divorce trial. Shah Law Group's staff is also very helpful and organized. They are there to support you on daily basis! Thank you!
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10 May, 2023 by Allison
Jennifer is a true professional. She helped me understand the issues, explained the complexities, and helped me navigate through a difficult case. She brought her years of legal expertise to the table. Without her, I would not have had the success I did.
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26 Feb, 2015 by Leo
Jennifer is organized, experienced and very professional. She kept me informed and provided me with options and information so that I could make informed choices at each step of the process. It didn’t hurt that she’s super smart too. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney.
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16 Jun, 2015 by Michele
I have never need a lawyer before and i was very nervous about my situation but ms tummala was there every step of the way she answered all my many questions and handled everything for me i couldnt be happier with her services
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02 Jun, 2015 by Lindsay
I am only half way through my bankruptcy but thus far she has been fantastic! I ask a lot of questions and can be a pain in the butt but she had never made me feel like I was bothering her or like I was being a pain. She has answered all of my questions within a day and always gets right back to me.
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10 Jun, 2020 by Susan
I was referred to Paula by a friend who spoke highly of her professionalism. Paula was amazing every step of the way. The lawyer I had previously was not ferocious enough and lacked tenacity. I wanted someone who would fight to get me a clean divorce and full legal custody of my children, I knew it would be a battle. I needed someone who was strong, willing and experienced. Paula went above and beyond to ensure I got sole custody, she was phenomenal! Her experience showed in court, and her presence in the court room was exceptional. I am so grateful that I choose Paula B Katchmer, and I would do so again in a heart beat!
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06 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I used this lawyer for my divorce. She is very experienced and understanding of all the emotions of divorce. She was up front about the pricing of everything. My divorce went as smoothly as could be expected with a divorce. I have recommended her to friends.
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28 Feb, 2014 by Rabi
Mr. Feldman was the consummate professional. He provided invaluable guidance in a very complicated real estate transaction that took over a year to complete! Needless to say, not all parties involved were aboveboard. He was always available, extremely responsive and highly trustworthy -- I would recommend him to anyone.
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18 Feb, 2014 by Dr. ben
Mark Feldman was my divorce attorney from 2001-2002. He takes cases personal and he is a very compassionate and understanding attorney.
He was able to negotiate a joint custody arrangement for me and by being in my children's lives have helped them emotionally, socially and academically.I highly recommend him to anyone looking an excellent attorney.
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19 Sep, 2017 by Gwen
She has a very professional team that is there for you. She knows the law and never keeps you guessing. She explains things clearly for you to understand and always knew she had our best interest. Always returns calls and emails. Will definitely hire her again if needed. Not enough stars for her.....
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01 Sep, 2016 by Marianne kosteff
This is my second time using this law office . The first time was to end my marriage and Handle a child custody matter . This second time is to modify the original order . All the staff make you feel welcomed . Everyone in the office is always willing to answer questions . This law firm will also look at the big picture and shoot you straight on your expectations . If you have an end goal in mind they will tell you the honest answer due to their experience if you will get it . I love the ladies in the office and recommend them to anyone looking for great female attorneys . The retainer they charge is slightly high but for what they can do it is worth it.
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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.
