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04 Oct, 2024 by Cam step
12 Aug, 2024 by John beck
I contacted the Attorney Generals Office to register a complaint of Fraud. I did so on line. They told me it would be a fee of $5.00 for filing, so I used a credit card. But before I could be connected to an attorney they wanted me to agree to an automatic withdrawal of $60.00 a month until I cancelled. This is another form of extortion especially since the Attorney General is paid by tax payers. Do not consumers have any protection by our government without them trying to extort funds from taxpayers?
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02 Jul, 2024 by Dwayne wafford
04 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Do NOT give this man your money - his license has been REVOKED. Unfortunately, I didn’t see all the negative reviews until it was too late. Not only did he walk away with the retainer, but he also cost me $1000’s in hotel/flight costs for court dates that he didn’t even show up for. He even promised to reimburse me for my travel for one of the trips since he messed up the paperwork, telling me to get dinner, breakfast, coffee, etc. and it would be compensated…right before he ghosted me.
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16 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
He started helping me with my case, pretended to work on my case, charged me and then ghosted me. Wont answer calls, texts or emails for months and still nothing. He never did anything he was hired to do. He over promised and under delivered. Based on the reviews already as a NEW lawyer he will not make it in this career at this pace and this is a very common practice of his. He should not have a license. I HIGHLY do NOT recommend him. I will be filing a complaint to get my money back. Everyone who has ever used him should do the same.
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04 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
El abogado christopher contreras, tengo un caso de divorcio y solo cobraron el dinero y hasta el día de hoy no contestan las llamadas ni mensajes ni te regresan la llamada, mal servicio y mal abogado
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09 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Wes Cowell is a liar, plain and simple. He is an immoral, manipulative person who works only for his own self-interest and will abandon his responsibilities with shocking ease. Hire at your own serious risk.
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06 Jul, 2024 by Rian marquez
My experience with Attorney Curtis Ross was nothing short of a nightmare. From the outset, he displayed a level of rudeness and disrespect that was utterly appalling. When I sought clarification on certain legal matters, he dismissed my concerns with the utmost arrogance, labeling my questions as "idiotic."
Instead of fulfilling his role as a legal advocate, he left me to fend for myself in court, all the while painting a false picture of me as argumentative. His complete lack of support and guidance was both shocking and deeply disappointing.
Save yourself the headache and avoid hiring Curtis Ross at all costs. He is an utter disgrace to the legal profession and will leave you high and dry when you need support the most.
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28 Oct, 2022 by Susan dotson
He's 76 years old and very forgetful. If you're lucky, Curtis Ross will remember to provide zoom information. If he has a bad day he may forget and you could miss court or be very late. He loves to celebrate every holiday and disappear days before court. Do you want him to prepare before court? Do you want to be prepped before court? If the answer is "no" pay his $5,000 retainer and $375.00 an hour.
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13 Apr, 2023 by Kelita 0027
03 Aug, 2021 by Axelle touchard
#justiceforariel !!!
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03 Aug, 2021 by Cael low
#JUSTICEFORARIEL
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09 Nov, 2014 by Howdidshepassthebar?
Our girl Amy... she has so much experience screwing people... but we were talking about her attorney skills, weren't we? Well, she may have some attorney skills, but she won't be using them to help you out... because if there is anything our Amy loves, it is using her skills to have you pay her money. Working your case... if, and I mean IF, you can get her to return your calls-- to her communicating with her client is to leave her famous message: "this has been going on too long and we need to get it resolved. I am going to (fill in the blank)..... Talk Soon!". If she does anything, she will do it half@**ed and then charged against your fee to do it the way you asked her to do it the first time.....
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07 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
If you want to hire an attorney, getting this one is the equivalent to throwing your money in the street and setting it on fire. She does very little, and if she helps you at all, more than likely it won't be enough to actually finish your case. Beware of this lawyer. She is lazy, and the worst lawyer I've yet to hear of or TRY to work with. I count her as a big regret in my life!
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17 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Don't hire this lawyer. She should have known not to take my case or my money. She did a poor job of working on my case, very slow, late for court every time. She does a poor job of keeping you informed. I had to call the "Clerk of Court" for my county to get info. I had to call the State Bar to find her. She moves around a lot, or she has. She will take your money and run if she wants to and leave you with no good representation or your $$$. She will also lie as to why she thinks she earned your money if you hire her. I've never seen a lawyer this bad.
Do someone else a favor and file a complaint with the State Bar!
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12 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
The woman clearly can't even take care of herself and make herself presentable yet she's in charge of the welfare of so many children. If you are lucky she will be a friend of the attorney you hire and then you can get away with anything. You will know right away if they are on a first name basis. Absolutely pathetic human being
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09 Jul, 2021 by Amy
She is a pathetic so called attorney and human being that just goes along with whatever the DA wants. She does not care what happens to you and your family. I would say it's just a 9-5 with her only she doesn't give any effort that an actual job would require. The one star was because i had to.
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14 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Hired Attorney Smith for my divorce and custody matter. She talked a good game during my consultation about how quick she gets back to her clients. Once I paid the retainer, I found out that was a lie. She stopped returning my calls and emails. She drug her feet submitting my custody petition, so when she got around to it weeks later, she found out the other party had already filed in a different county so I had to go retain a new attorney in that county. She never returned my emails and calls to follow up and let me know my divorce was final or send me the decree. I found out the divorce was final after it was posted in the newspaper and I had to go to the court house and find out how to get my own copy of the divorce decree.
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16 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I have nothing good to say about this attorney. Could not argue his way out of a paper bag.
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16 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I have nothing good to say about this attorney. Could not argue his way out of a paper bag.
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29 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Poor communication skills about my case. I wouldn't recommend him to anyone. He doesn't return calls, and he doesn't stand up for my child in court either.
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14 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
This was my attorney appointed to me by the courts. I could not get in contact with him to go over my case. We only spoke a for a few minutes before I would see the judge. Very rude each time. He seemed to be best buddy’s with the District Attorney, always laughing and talking with them. I asked the Judge if he could be removed from my case and explained why. The judge granted my request and he was removed.
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18 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
After two court appearances he moved quickly to have me enter a plea. Asked me when I would be ready to go to jail when I told him things were moving too quickly, i felt rushed to take a plea. No criminal background but facing misdemeanor charge. I never received copy of criminal complaint or review of the discovery. I assumed in his professional experience he would provide those to me. I asked to judge to withdraw him as counsel after he raised his voice at me before court. I watched another client of his complain to their family about his tactics. Its been 8 days since court and He has yet to provide my file to public defenders office or myself so I can obtain new counsel before court in 6 days. Poor defense attorney. Maybe a defense for criminal law isn't the best fit.
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21 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
I would not recommend Mr patrick wait for your attorney let me say the money you spend for attorney is what you will receive so dont expect anything on your case to be done right or done at all !!!
After my case from him practically nothing i still got Bolth charges on me and I had no criminal background on me I expected to least 1 charge dropped from destruction property and domestic and the charges were from my wife but she wanted to drop all them but I didn't expect to get Bolth charges dropped in wisconsin. Patrick wait told me he talked to D.A and told me I will be charged with only destruction property with I agreed to !!! We went to court (( they charged me with Bolth )) I almost went to jail with no criminal record!!! Later months later when I called patrick wait the attorney for questions on probation HE SHOUTED ON PHONE and started swearing at me and said why should I help you cause I made this review on him. Don't use this attorney he is pointed out any from garentee funds from the state you are better off getting your own attorney I had to pay 2 attorneys to get my job done.
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30 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Seven months into my custody battle (and a ridiculous $22K spent with little to show for it), Mr Rolsch started ignoring all communication. He then suddenly withdrew during a VERY critical time in my case, leaving me with no Atty or money. I am obviously not happy with his services and do not recommend him. His legal assistant however, is great!
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20 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Steve to represent me in my child custody case. At the time I had no idea that he was the same attorney that represented my uncle in a divorce were my he lost almost everything. He also grew up with the opposing party in my custody case. I had thought that he was a genuine straight up attorney that was good at his job. I took out a loan for $3,000 and that was gone in no time but I thought to myself that custody cases are expensive and that is the way it has to be. Another $5,000 and I now owe him a thousand still. We never once made it to court and he was sitting there billing me for calls he never had to make to me in the first place because he knew my answer to settling. I smartened up and got another attorney to handle the rest of my case. I hope as many people as possible get a chance to read this before they hire him. I also plan on speaking to an attorney about taking him to court to be repaid the money that was spent on the services that he did not deliver on. To all I wish the best. God Bless You.
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24 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I'm not just a bitter former client I can justify my rating. Trustworthy, I had to call Mr rolsch to remind him of my court date in which we never ended up speaking with each other prior to that date. Responsive, Months went by without speaking with Mr rolsch and when I would try to call him the only response I would get was a $75 bill for listening to my voice mail but never did hear from him. Knowledgeable, he billed me for hours and hours of research for a dwi case. That is the bread and butter of any defense attorney, why would he need to spend that much time researching unless he was just padding the bill. He never did come up with even a remote defense plan even after I offered a few avenues which I still regret pursuing after speaking with other attorneys. Kept me informed, I was never even sure he would show up in court not to mention have anything to tell me about my case.
BEWARE
when I first spoke with Mr rolsch I explained to him that I could pay him only an agreed upon amount (already 2 times higher than everyone else) he said that was fine unless we had to go to trial. Six months after my case was over I received a bill for 3 times that amount. He ended up taking me to small claims for it. When I showed up for court I found that the entire courtroom was filled with his former clients with the same story. I was always told you pay for what you get and that's why I went with rolsch but there isn't one aspect of his business conduct I would recommend.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Andrea defalco
In my opinion, Gail is a threat to the safety of children. Based on the overwhelming number of reviews saying the same, I am sharing how to report her conduct. It is easy to file a report with both regulatory boards/commissions.
Use the link below if you have used her in the capacity as a Psychologist:
https://idfpr.illinois.gov/admin/dpr/complaint.html
Select “Professional Regulation” and fill out the information in the form.
Use the link below if you have used her in the capacity as an Attorney:
https://www.iardc.org/Files/Request_For__Investigation.pdf
In my opinion Gail is a danger to children and families. In my opinion, she puts children at risk of serious harm. In my opinion she must be stopped.
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14 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
We used Gail for divorce mediation. She was late for every appointment. She clearly hadn't ever review anything prior to our meetings and then never sent us our final documents. She was supposed to connect us with a lawyer at the end who 'she works with' to finalize and file our case, she did not do that, she completely disappeared once our last payment was sent. I called and emailed many times and no one responded. She was slow during meetings and wasn't much help with any questions we had. If it hadn't been during a pandemic we would have changed mediator. Ours was a simple divorce, I would hate someone in the middle of a stressful divorce to have to deal with this unprofessionalism on top of that.
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16 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
This women will continue to try to convince you that abuse of your children is okay. She as a mandated reporter will hide abuse in order to assure she will receive a paycheck from you as long as possible. She will make excuses for the abuser and lie to Judges/Child representatives/DCFS, because if the children get removed from the abusive home she loses you as a client. Please make sure to report this woman to the state of Illinois if anything like this has happened to you. A hospital Doctor that had to care for our children said that Dr. Gail Petrich’s actions are “disgusting and she should be ashamed of herself”. We cannot let people like Dr. Gail Petrich continue to practice.
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17 Dec, 2017 by Jessica
Complete waste of money, almost cost me the most important piece of my life (my children). I would literally do EVERYTHING for the case. EVERYTHING. All she had to do was present it and she couldn't even do that right. I had to fire her mid court hearing it was that bad and the judge wouldn't let me speak because "I hired an attorney to speak for me"
The ONLY positive thing I can say about working with her is that I became so knowledgeable and good at the legal system, I ended up getting a scholarship to attend law school.
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17 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I have dealt with damages from, trying to get rid of and be done with, this sorry excuse of an attorney. She was highly unprofessional during my few dealings with her, discussing other cases by name in front of me, using profanity during meetings, NEVER returning calls herself...the list goes on.
I received multiple calls from her office during which I was told I needed to track down and obtain this document or the other. I would also be instructed that *I* needed to pay for however many copies of each that she required (even though they would have been free had her office done so) and then bring them into her. If it wasn't documents she wanted, it was for me to make phone calls to various professionals. Now, I'm fairly sure that the hard come by cash I had paid her was so that SHE would be handling all this. All said and done, there was not one single thing she did in any legal capacity to further my case AT ALL. In all truth I feel her actions, or I should say, her lack of appropriate action, ANY action, caused significant damage to the incredibly important matter I entrusted her with.
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06 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
This Attorney was very unprofessional in handling my case.
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19 Mar, 2024 by Zack
I would like to share some details in regards to an ongoing case that daniel was handling for us. However, due to our complaints of his ineffectiveness. And his paralegals' inability to create professional documents, he decided we were too much of a hassle and could earn easier money somewhere else. If you have hired this firm and they have not delivered on anything that they have said or promised And have continuously just taken money from you. Please reach out to me so we can put a stop to this together. Family court is hard enough. We should have an attorney that is on our side.
Update: I've requested a refund for services because of the lack of work and have been ignored. I filed a bar complaint.
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02 Aug, 2022 by Pamela gonzalez
I strongly recommend that you do research before hiring this firm. I spoke with Catherine Vincent originally and my case was handled by Daniel "Rat" His inexperience has shown throughout my case and I feel like everything is a wreck because of him.
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23 Apr, 2015 by Bill
She was fairly knowledgeable on divorce law, but did not send opposing counsel our settlement offers. She was not very well organized and became harder and harder to contact and get a response from her. Did not receive my first bill until about 45 days after I retained her and I was way over my retainer at that point.
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18 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Did not communicate, rarely answered calls , did not have details of my case correct when we were before the judge, very rude, accepted payments then said she never agreed to them and wanted to be paid in full or she would not go to court for me. Court was in 5 days. When I did manage to meet with her she didn't know why I was there and said I needed to spoon feed her. Overall do not hire her , you will end up in debt and wondering if she presented your case or someone elses to the judge.
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22 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr.habhab is a mediocre lawyer.the that I wouldn't recommend to represent a cat (he's that dumb).he only cares about money and how long he can drag out a case.I tried to use him in a simple matter and he flubbed that up and then told me I was up a creek without a paddle so to speak.in fixed the case with a phone call and one appearance in court,thank God I didn't take this lame lawyers advice.
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03 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Habhab was to represent my son in a domestic case. Instead he represented both my son and sister-in-law. talked with Sister-in-law but not my son. My son paid him for nothing and it has been over six months and still has not received a receipt for the charges. My son ended up going back to court for the same charges. He went without a lawyer representing him and did better than if Habhab was there. The case was thrown out. Habhab can't remember the facts or the names of the people involved even during the same conversation. His notes has no rhyme or reason on paper. He is a spineless little man. Big mistake - he was recommended by his sister who also is an attorney in a different district.
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12 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
No expert knowledge and Rip Client off Illegally
Totally agree with the other reviewer, Leonard Garber has no clue what to do with my case as well. Typically when attorneys try to sell their services, they will propose their approach for the case. Leonard Garber says he has no idea what to do with the case, but would expect to get paid for his time even when he is doing nothing.
He illegally conned the client into retaining him only then to intentionally get on the phone with the client doing nothing other than saying he doesn’t think he can handle the case. Then he charged the client for that time. He is not even supposed to get in retainment when he doesn’t want to take the case. The only way he did so is so as to charge the client illegally.
It is hard to believe an attorney who has practiced for 40 years would have no clues of some basic case scenarios!
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29 Feb, 2020 by Heather
I hired Mr. Garber for my divorce case and I am glad I switched attorneys as soon as I could otherwise, my case would have been a disaster! Mr. Garber is not a family law specialist and besides that, he took days to get back at emails/calls. He didn't have a clue of what to do in my case.
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16 Mar, 2022 by Kevin
This attorney just shrugged me off like my case wasn’t important. Lacking in response and communication ended up choosing another attorney.
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23 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
When a 94-year-old man who obviously lacks the capacity to make decisions for himself wants a will for his caregiver, you have to question whether the lawyer hired to draft the paperwork has the capacity for sound judgement - of any kind.
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13 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
If Aronberg Goldgehn have any self respect for their firm they'll send this arrogant, incompetent lawyer on retirement and pronto!
Not only is he completely inept in what he's hired to do, he's cognitively incapacitated (my sympathy but it's a sign you can't perform as you pledge), rude, forgetful, unaccountable for his actions or lack thereof, dismissive, ignorant and most of all: full of misconduct (unsubstantiated charges) that should be and will be raised to ARDC. Desperate for billing hours, he'll do absolutely nothing for you but bill you for it without justification. To avoid being held accountable for his misconduct and negligence, he'll refuse to communicate any way there is a record of it (email, etc),
STAY AWAY FROM HIM and report him as soon as you notice any of the red flags. I wish I read his (atrocious) reviews prior to being engaged with this person.
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12 Nov, 2021 by Michael
First of all, the picture you see was likely taken decades ago. This man and his law firm are reprehensible. As a divorced Father of three, my ex-wife went ballistic when I moved in with my partner and her two children. We spent 17 months in Lake County Family Law Court fighting an Emergency Motion to remove my parenting time. Zaslavsky was routinely unprepared, could not remember basic facts, arrogant and dismissive of my ideas / opinions. When I questioned him and his failure to challenge the corrupt Judge Charles Smith (who was removed from his post after we complained), Zaslavsky fired me in the middle of the case. When I reached out to his senior partners in protest, they provided me with another Attorney from the firm to replace him. She was definitely better, but these people all eat at the same table, and at the end of the day, they are all cowards. They will not stand up for what is right if there is any fear that they will anger the Judge. Also, this was during Covid, when the hearings were all remote Zoom. Zaslavsky stalled and extended the legal process as much as possible to keep the meter running (a common trick). Despite the fact that I beat back all of the lies and distortions brought on by my ex-wife, and despite the fact that my custody never changed, I went into debt $30K and lost my employment. I "won" on paper, but in truth, I would have been better off representing myself. This is entire process is corrupt, and nobody wins except the lawyers.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
With all respect , on first court date MR Najera was about 2 hours late , on 2 nd court he said he would be there at 9am and was running late , me and my ex wife with her attorney waited till 11am finally MR Najera s assistant called that he would not make due to being in another court trial , 3 rd court date MR Najera showed up late about 10am and without my file , mey exs attorney had to give him a copy , finally they asked for more money and I refused ..
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20 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Do not waste your money. He will make you pay and not deliver what he promises
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08 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Save your money I cannot say this enough. You rather go in with a public defender than to hire this person that knows nothing of the law and I have to sit down and educate myself about the law so I can educate him about how 5years probation for a second time dui is the maximum and 3 years is the minimum. He has the audacity to try and manipulate me into thinking 5 years is the minimum and his excuse is they always give 5 years. LOL. DO NOT HIRE THIS HORRIBLE LAWYER
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11 Dec, 2021 by Lorenzo
My BFF's sugar daddy paid this attorney to get him out of some trouble a few years back. Don't know if he's a good lawyer but apparently pressured my friend into *more* than a professional relationship. The State Bar really ought to be on this guy.
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21 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I felt Gail was more sympathetic to my ex-spouse's situation, and not as much as mine or my child's plight! During our support negotiation, she didn't "fight" for my son, and instead, advised me to settle for a payment BELOW the minimum recommended payment! I went back later on my own (after she charged me for a very expensive fee to let the court know she no longer represented me) and got more money. I did more on my own without paying her very expensive fees!
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10 Mar, 2013 by Jane
Gail was never able to really listen to me, nor did she advocate for me as I thought a true "Super" attorney would. At the end of my two year QDRO case, I wrote Gail, and her two partners, a letter outlining 5 areas in which I was dissatisfied with Gail's work. No one ever answered me. Gail and her firm are very expensive. I would never recommend her. Use someone else who may really listen to you, work for you, and not cost as much.
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16 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Very unprofessional. Did not return calls & e-mails and (in other ways) ultimately contributed to this innocent parent losing custody of only child after spending thousands of dollars for nothing. I heard he was good. He was awful!!!
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16 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Google search his DUI arrest on March 23, 2012. Read the negative comments from prior clients and his colleagues. Then ask yourself "do I really want him representing me as my attorney?" If you know what's good for yourself, you'll work with a respectful attorney who deserves to be paid your hard earned dollars. He's experienced but very self-serving and not trustworthy. I wish I knew then what I know now.
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24 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Reneka and Kary Gregg were put on my case last minute and did not do anything they were ordered to do by the courts in Montgomery County. I would highly recommend finding a different attorney as this entire law firm is a joke. Don't read and believe their reviews. they literally pay employees to put good reviews on there site to make them look better. Run as fast as you can.
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12 Nov, 2021 by Kt
Ms. Hayes was assigned to my case last minute by Bryan Fagan Law Firm, after my attorney resigned days before my trial. She was totally unprepared, unassertive, and lacked any evidence of properly preparing for my trial. As a disabled veteran on social security, I am still questioning how is it that I was billed over $10,000.00 for what amounted to horrible legal representation.
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14 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Relatively new attorney in the Strom firm, who is knowledgeable, but is meeting an hourly monthly quota, so your divorce will be dragged on with no forward movement by Patty. Patty also does not play well with others, so do not expect negotiations to happen. Do yourself a favor and keep looking for an attorney that actually wants to settle your case and not destroy your children’s future in the process. Sometime you can be too young and not have enough life experiences to understand the detriment being caused by one’s actions. This is certainly the case with Patty.
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31 Jul, 2021 by T.
We hired Mr. Herrera after a pleasant phone call to help my elderly mother with a landlord (slumlord). After paying his fee for a letter we had to seriously edit because it did not contain troubling elements regarding her landlord's negligence, he was difficult to reach and made excuses contrary to legal remedies we know existed.
A month after the first letter, as we waited for the landlord to take action on his dilapidated house, I hired him to write a letter to a business competitor regarding his defamation and slander. I had to write the entire thing, including state and federal laws he was ignoring, as I'd already emailed him the laws and their corresponding precedents.
Months later, after landlord had failed to live up to his own written promises, much less repair the house in a livable fashion -- which includes a failing heating and ductwork system -- Mr. Herrera told my mom to wait until winter before we could address the issue.
Seriously? Seriously.
We'd informed him, with photos, of this problem the PREVIOUS WINTER.
To get that "answer," we had to call numerous times over the course of two weeks, finally stating "we'll have to hire a new attorney if we don't hear from you today."
He took our money, wrote crappy letters, refused to any follow-up, and never stated fees for more action. Maybe he didn't want to take any action. Maybe he made his easy money and that was all he wanted. We paid for letters I could've written myself just to have his Esq. attached to them.
Wasted six months and $800 which would've been better spent on a competent lawyer. Nothing has changed since we sadly chose Mr. Herrera to "represent" us.
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13 May, 2021 by James
I was extremely dissatisfied with this lawyer. I Hired her outside of avvo. There lawfirm is very expensive and does not care how much it costs you.
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26 Sep, 2020 by Rebecca
I went to Lynette for help with custody of my son after his dad physically abused him. In the initial (free) phone call to review the events she stated we would request a restraining order and push for full custody. Once she receive my deposit and began charging me for every contact she sent several emails just to check in (I was charged for those check in emails), she spent 1.7 hours discussing the events (that we had gone over several times prior). During that phone call she kept acting confused about the explanation that my son's father threw a shovel at my son, pinned him to the ground and choked him. She did not follow up with the CPS report or Sheriff report. She claimed to have prepared all of the paperwork to submit to the court, but after 3 weeks of interaction she still had not submitted any paperwork to the court.
The bill was just sent for $1400 for 2 phone calls and some check in emails. The end result is my son is still forced to go to a man's house that is physically abusive and the lawyer got paid.
To add to the incompetence, the book keeper told me that I could pay with a credit card and the deposit would be sent back as a check. now I have a $1500 credit on a paid off credit card.
Please do yourself a a favor and do not use this firm.
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18 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
she is terrible at her job and has no patience, she is very bitchy and contradicts everything that she says, and is very inconsistent
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03 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Please beware of this attorney. Her severe lack of ethics directly harms the children she "represents" as Minor's Counsel. She makes alliances...and self-interest/money supplants children's safety, well-being, best interests and justice & truth. There is a shocking underbelly to the San Diego Family Court system particularly North County. Do very careful research and please protect your children regardless of whether you are the mother or the father.
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03 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Live in condo association which board members such former president didn't want dogs even emotional support for people dr wrote letter the association attorney wanted diagnosis yet other people didn't have answer question in fact current board member has dog for emotional support other people have dogs yet this called doesn't treat all people equally3
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03 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Diana has to be the worst attorney for men. If you just need motions filed, she is great. But to have her as representation I would RUN, she will misrepresent you, she gives the other side whatever they want. Diana is more combative with her client than she will with the opposing team. You can have all the documents in the world and prove that the other party is in contempt, perjury and showing you do not owe what they say you do she will not go up against it. It was like I was going against the state and her. SHE DOESN'T OR DO NOT WANT TO UNDERSTAND THAT SHE IS HANDLING PEOPLE LIVELY HOOD. But she will take your money like she did all she could do to represent you. Let's not forget she hides information from her own clients. But if you have extra money and would like to throw it away use them. Charles goes along with whatever as long as they are getting paid. PLEASE DO NOT BE FOOLED BY THE RESPONSE THEY MAY POST TO SAY THEY NEVER REPRESENTED ME BECAUSE THEY DID, THEY JUST DONT WANT THE NEGATIVE REVIEW.
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FAQs
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What a Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Do for You
A domestic violence lawyer provides legal assistance to individuals involved in cases of domestic abuse, whether you are a victim seeking protection or someone accused of domestic violence defending against the charges. These lawyers help with obtaining restraining orders (protective orders), representing clients in criminal court, and handling related family law issues such as child custody, divorce, and visitation rights.
If you are dealing with domestic violence, a lawyer can help protect your rights and navigate the legal system to ensure your safety or defend you if you’re falsely accused.
When Should I Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a domestic violence lawyer if you are:
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A Victim of Domestic Violence:
- Filing for a protective order (restraining order): If you need immediate protection from an abuser, a lawyer can help you file for a protective order, which legally requires the abuser to stay away from you and refrain from contacting you.
- Divorce or separation due to abuse: If domestic violence is a factor in your relationship, a lawyer can help you pursue a divorce or legal separation and ensure that you are protected throughout the process.
- Child custody and visitation issues: A lawyer can help you secure custody of your children and limit or restrict the abuser’s visitation rights to protect the safety of your children.
- Filing criminal charges: If you are pursuing criminal charges against the abuser, a domestic violence lawyer can work with law enforcement and prosecutors to ensure the case is handled properly.
- Assistance with safety planning: A lawyer can advise on the legal steps to create a safety plan, including securing temporary housing, and taking steps to protect you and your family.
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Accused of Domestic Violence:
- Defending against criminal charges: If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, a lawyer can defend your case, challenge the evidence, and represent you in court. If possible, the lawyer can help get charges reduced or dismissed.
- Challenging a restraining order: If someone has obtained a protective order against you, a lawyer can help you contest the order to prevent it from negatively impacting your life, including your employment and child custody rights.
- Dealing with family law issues: Domestic violence allegations can affect child custody, divorce, and property division. A lawyer can represent your interests in family court and ensure that your parental rights are protected.
- Avoiding criminal record implications: A lawyer can work to minimize the impact of the allegations on your record, which can affect your employment, housing, and future legal matters.
Hiring a lawyer at the earliest stages can help ensure your rights are protected and the case is handled effectively, whether you are seeking protection or defending against accusations.
What Does a Domestic Violence Lawyer Do?
A domestic violence lawyer provides various legal services depending on the specifics of your case. These responsibilities often include:
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For Victims:
- Filing for protective orders: A lawyer can help victims of domestic violence obtain temporary or permanent restraining orders, which provide legal protection by restricting the abuser’s access to you and your children.
- Representing you in divorce and child custody matters: Domestic violence often leads to divorce or separation, and a lawyer can represent you in family court to protect your assets, secure custody of your children, and arrange spousal and child support.
- Criminal representation: Lawyers work with law enforcement and prosecutors to pursue criminal charges against the abuser, ensuring that you are informed and supported throughout the legal process.
- Safety planning and legal advice: Lawyers provide advice on how to stay safe legally and can assist in securing temporary housing, providing guidance on how to leave abusive situations safely.
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For the Accused:
- Defending against charges: A lawyer will build a defense by investigating the case, gathering evidence, and challenging the claims made against you. If necessary, the lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties.
- Challenging protective orders: If a restraining order has been placed against you, a lawyer can contest the order and present evidence to defend against it, aiming to minimize its impact on your life and reputation.
- Handling related family law issues: Lawyers help defend against domestic violence allegations in divorce, child custody, and visitation disputes, working to protect your parental rights and reputation.
- Preventing long-term consequences: A lawyer will work to protect you from the long-term consequences of a domestic violence conviction, such as a criminal record that could affect employment, housing, and more.
How Are Domestic Violence Lawyers Paid?
Domestic violence lawyers generally charge for their services in different ways depending on the case's complexity and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many domestic violence lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. Hourly rates are common for both criminal defense and family law matters.
- Flat fee: For specific tasks, such as filing a restraining order or defending against a straightforward domestic violence charge, some lawyers offer a flat fee that covers all legal work related to that service.
- Retainer: In complex cases, such as those involving criminal charges, divorce, and custody disputes, a lawyer may require a retainer fee, which is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
- Pro bono or reduced fees: Some domestic violence lawyers provide pro bono (free) or reduced-fee services to victims of domestic abuse who cannot afford legal representation.
It’s important to discuss fees during your consultation to ensure you understand how much your case will cost and what payment options may be available.
How Much Does a Domestic Violence Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a domestic violence lawyer depends on the complexity of your case, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of legal work required. General cost estimates include:
- Restraining orders: The legal fees for filing a protective or restraining order typically range from $500 to $2,500, depending on whether the case requires a hearing.
- Criminal defense: If you’re defending against domestic violence charges, legal fees may range from $2,500 to $15,000 or more, depending on whether the case goes to trial and the severity of the charges.
- Family law issues: Legal fees for divorce, child custody, and other family law issues related to domestic violence can range from $3,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
- Hourly rates: Domestic violence lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for their services, with more experienced lawyers charging higher rates.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to understand the total cost of legal services.
Top Questions to Ask a Domestic Violence Lawyer
Before hiring a domestic violence lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the right experience and approach for your case. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with domestic violence cases?
Ensure that the lawyer has handled domestic violence cases similar to yours, whether you’re a victim or the accused. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, flat fees, or a retainer, and ask for a detailed cost estimate. -
What is the likely outcome of my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Domestic violence cases vary in length, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what might cause delays. -
Will I need to appear in court?
Ask if your participation in court is required, and how the lawyer plans to represent you during hearings or trials. -
What steps should I take to protect myself or my rights?
Whether you’re a victim seeking protection or defending against allegations, ask the lawyer how they will help you navigate the situation.
How to Check the Credibility of a Domestic Violence Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable domestic violence lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for domestic violence experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in domestic violence cases and have successfully handled cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients say about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have been involved in domestic violence cases.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for certifications or memberships in family law or domestic violence advocacy groups, such as the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a domestic violence lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
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For Victims:
- Details of the abuse: Prepare a detailed account of the abuse, including dates, locations, and descriptions of any injuries or threats.
- Police reports and medical records: Bring copies of any police reports, medical records, or photographs that document the abuse.
- Legal filings: If you have already filed for a restraining order or been involved in any legal proceedings, bring copies of those documents.
- Questions about your safety and legal options: Be ready to ask about the best steps to protect yourself and your family, as well as what legal actions you should pursue.
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For the Accused:
- Details of the allegations: Prepare a detailed account of the incident or allegations against you, including any evidence or witnesses that support your defense.
- Legal documents: Bring any legal documents you have received, such as a restraining order, criminal charges, or child custody filings.
- Questions about your defense: Prepare questions about the legal process, possible penalties, and how the lawyer plans to defend your case.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation and provide the best possible legal advice.
