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24 Apr, 2024 by Megan machno
I called and was astonished with the fact I got through to an actual person. I have reached out to many other lawyers offices with no luck. I was given amazing advice from William Pettersen for a case. Even though he wasn't able to take my case at this time; I was offered detailed information, what specifics of the law I need to know about, recommended other attorneys, and also gave me notes to pass along for a more professional reference. I would recommend this practice 100%. Thank you so much.
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17 Mar, 2024 by Crystal
William Pettersen represented me through my divorce. He was professional, respectful, and made sure that my best interests were met. I am grateful to have had him represent me through a difficult time. I would hire him again if ever I needed representation.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Rave bell
Quickly answered my questions and demonstrated their expertise in the field in a highly efficient manner. They unfortunately were no longer taking the types of cases that pertained to my situation, however they left me with far greater knowledge of my situation and recommendations to lawyers who would also be able to help me.
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26 Jun, 2023 by Jerry gump
Always great counsel from Duncan. We've used Duncan for all our legal and estate planning for over 20 years.
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11 Jan, 2023 by E. joy polydore
Seeing business agreements for partners/investors
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11 Jan, 2023 by Brent garrett
I have been a client of the Webb & Webb legal firm for over 20 years! Duncan Webb and his team are hard working, reliable, and uniquely qualified to handle my personal, business and estate legal needs. The Webb & Webb team bring a common sense approach when providing legal strategy, service, and advice. Duncan Webb is honest, principled, grounded and very skilled. If you need wise and tempered legal advice for your family, business or estate, don’t hesitate to call Webb & Webb pc. I highly recommend this firm without hesitation! - Brent Garrett, President of Sirius Plumbing and Air Conditioning, Inc.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Thesuper21gunsalute
Marty is a great guy and a great lawyer. He really does go above and beyond for his clients. I 100% recommend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Josh self
Marty is an amazing attorney and hard worker for his clients dont wait just hire him for your legal needs definitely 5 star service
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jason kim
If I could give him more stars I would. He was very professional and did everything in a timely manner. Great communication, I highly recommend.
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16 Dec, 2022 by Ahamed musthafa
17 Mar, 2022 by Danny j. adams
09 Oct, 2021 by Christopher hendrix
I retained Peter last year to create a will and trust. He was great at answering all my questions. He was easy to work with from the initial consult to signing the final documents. His fees were very fair, and I would happily retain him again if I needed legal services.
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29 Oct, 2022 by Cameron mills
29 Nov, 2020 by Brother moses (br. moses)
He is a great defense attorney. Down to earth, compassionate, and professional.
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05 Mar, 2020 by Shannon price
Great lawyer very knowledgeable of the law and will fight for you like he’s the victim and he’s fighting for his self
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22 Jan, 2021 by Jenn
I came to Isaiah with a very emotionally charged case that involved changing the custody agreement for my child. Isaiah was honest and real with me from the beginning. I always felt heard, understood and knew that the best interests of my case were his priority. I could not have asked for a better outcome in the courtroom. I am beyond thankful that Isaiah is in my corner!
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01 Jan, 2021 by Candice
Isaiah has been my lawyer for three years. He helped me through a divorce and custody battle as well as a criminal case. I’ve never doubted him and have trusted his advice and knowledge over the years. Isaiah has his clients best interest at heart. He will go to the ends of the world to make sure he is doing everything he possibly can to help you. I always feel like I’m his only client. He is dedicated, determined, smart, not afraid to ask his associates for help in order to handle your case with the best of his abilities. He isn’t afraid of the courtroom. I can’t say enough great things about him. I am very grateful and lucky to have Isaiah on my side. This is the man you want to fight along side you in court.
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30 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Isaiah was very professional in my case. He always got back back to me in a timely manner and was able to answer any questions that I had and explained everything in a way anyone would be able to understand.
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07 Nov, 2021 by Michael bryant
Great lawyers , the very best at representing train employees injured
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22 Sep, 2021 by Daniel brown
I really, really appreciated having Rebecca Guyette in my corner over the last year and a half as my divorce dragged on and on due to my former spouse's combative recalcitrance. I think I would have gone insane if not for her calm confidence, support, and professional expertise. I appreciate her immensely and recommend her without reservation.
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31 Aug, 2021 by Leslie kimes
Rebecca is an experienced family law attorney and is well-regarded as a practitioner, mediator, parenting consultant, and parenting and custody evaluator by the local bar. She is a long-time member of the Collaborative Law Institute of Minnesota and founding member of our local practice group, Collaborative Divorce Professionals. I highly recommend her services.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Andre aguilar
02 Jan, 2024 by Shelby miller
Susan and her team are fantastic… sadly I come into contact with couples that need to sell their home due to getting a divorce. Susan is instrumental in ensuring clear communications and keeping parties focused on what’s important. I highly recommend Gibson Family Law.
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09 Jun, 2023 by Jason lichtfus
Gibson Family law is a great firm. Their knowledge of the law is incredible and they also care about you and your family's needs. I have worked with them for over a year now and I wouldn't go anywhere else for guidance and legal assistance. Susan's knowledge of the law covers many different counties and she is familiar with the process in each county. She is fair, upfront, hardworking and will be very honest with you in regards to your case. I would refer anyone to Gibson Family Law and will use them again for my legal needs.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Penny mechler
Susan and her team are experts in their field. I am so glad I called Susan; she helped me every step of the way. Susan is so easy to talk to and work with. I can't imagine going through my divorce without her.
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24 Aug, 2023 by Robert marti
Susan was a pleasure to work with and was incredibly helpful from start to finish!
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23 Jun, 2023 by Nv5 technology and acoustics
There are a lot of lawyers out there to choose from, and I was very happy to have selected Susan. She was patient but firm, sympathetic but sturdy, and kept me informed every step of the journey. I always felt that my interests were being protected.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Tina moore
I used them for my divorce and they helped me so much and made it much less stressful!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Nick
08 Jul, 2024 by Thomas miller (millertwin24)
24 Jul, 2024 by J johnson
I came to Shawn with a tenant issue. He went above and beyond in his communication with me as well as the tenants. Shawn was more than fair in his pricing and went above and beyond with regard to time spent assisting and counseling me in the matter. I am very appreciative of his services and highly recommend him.
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10 May, 2024 by Barbara fong
Used their services to remediate a medical bill and they did great job & was able to obtain favorable result. Highly recommend!
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27 Apr, 2024 by Nikki
Very great attorney and person. He is honest and truly cares about his clients.
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5.0
9 Reviews
5.0
2 Reviews
08 Jul, 2024 by Sherlyn jurgensen
I have hired Lindsey twice for legal matters and I can not speak highly enough about her. She is both personal and professional. She is prompt to answer questions and resolves issues in a timely manner! You will not be disappointed with the legal representation she provides to her clients!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jessica johnson
She is such an amazing person!!! She truely is the kindest, most loving, sweet person, and a great attorney!!!! I wish i could give her more than 5 stars!!!!
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14 Nov, 2017 by Marina
My good fortune was to hire Michael Taylor for my divorce. He is a superb lawyer, but much more - so caring and compassionate. When my case went to trial I was so proud to have him represent me. Understated, yet he made point after point. A few well chosen cross- examination questions and my ex's lies under oath were exposed. Somehow he got my ex's girlfriend to open up about her anger problems, her medications and her time in jail for assaulting the police. He did everything for me, getting me huge child support, maintenance, and money judgments beyond my expectations. He is the best!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Daniel hillyer
Cary Dohman is the man. He took care of me, I received the best outcome I could have asked for, and he’s just a great guy. Highly recommend.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Gabriella eve
I had an absolutely amazing experience working with the Dohman Law Firm! The lawyers are attentive, provide great communication, and work above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. 10/10 would recommend for anyone in need of legal counsel.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Kolby stutzman
Mr. Dohman has been a great attorney! I have had a very rough time in life lately because life is life and not all blue skies. He was there for me, understanding, patient, and he still stuck with me through my court case! I received the best deal for my case and my circumstances. If you are looking for an attorney, I strongly recommend Mr. Carey Dohman! He has reasonable prices, and he will do everything he can to work with you. Thank you Carey, for all you have done for me, you have been a blessing!
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21 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I recently had the pleasure of working with Mackenzie during my divorce proceedings, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. From the very beginning, Mackenzie demonstrated exceptional professionalism, empathy, and expertise. She was always available to answer my questions and provided clear, concise guidance throughout the entire process.
Mackenzie's attention to detail and dedication to my case were truly remarkable. She handled every aspect of my divorce with the utmost care and ensured that my interests were always protected. Her ability to navigate complex legal issues and negotiate effectively made a significant difference in the outcome of my case.
Beyond her legal acumen, Mackenzie was a source of emotional support during a very challenging time. Her compassionate approach helped me feel more at ease and confident in the decisions we made together.
If you are looking for a knowledgeable, dedicated, and compassionate family law attorney, I highly recommend Mackenzie. She is an outstanding advocate and a true professional.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Ivan
I recently worked with Mackenzie on my divorce case, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the experience. She was incredibly helpful throughout the entire process, organizing mediation efficiently and always being responsive to my questions and concerns. Her professionalism and dedication ensured that everything went smoothly, and I'm very happy with the outcome. I highly recommend Mackenzie to anyone in need of a knowledgeable and supportive attorney.
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02 May, 2024 by Anonymous
After contacting many different attorneys regarding a family law case, all the other law firms requested heavy fees up front without offering any solutions regardless of them providing free consultations.
Despite her law firm being quite busy at the time, Mackenzie Bretz received a brief description of my case from their staff and was the only person I encountered knowledgeable in the field to present the best options moving forward despite them being the least profitable for her.
Other attorneys that specialized in family law specifically for men asked the highest rates of all before providing any form of advice.
Before Mackenzie was hired on for my case, she provided realistic solutions and outcomes along with reasonable pricing by comparison.
Mackenzie did not drag out communications to maximize profit, everything was succinct and to the point.
Despite her advice being accurate she was flexible and open to other points of view with regard as to how to proceed.
Mackenzie and her assistants would take additional time beyond their hours to help with legal matters despite already providing a timeframe and quality solutions.
When representing my case, she was committed to presenting evidence fairly even if it was outside of her initial advice.
I am infinitely grateful for the legal help provided by Mackenzie and the Beresford staff during a time of need.
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16 Dec, 2022 by Ahamed musthafa
17 Mar, 2022 by Danny j. adams
09 Oct, 2021 by Christopher hendrix
I retained Peter last year to create a will and trust. He was great at answering all my questions. He was easy to work with from the initial consult to signing the final documents. His fees were very fair, and I would happily retain him again if I needed legal services.
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03 Nov, 2022 by David belica
27 Sep, 2022 by Michelle lesaca
12 Apr, 2021 by Don sullivan
Matt is a professional. I highly recommend him. He stays on top of everything and works for you. No hidden fees or excuses. He stays on top of the details and works to get you the best result. He takes the time to explain everything to you and what to expect.
He has a lot of experience and he will make it work for you!
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04 Aug, 2024 by Nick frazier
If there was 6 stars I would have chosen 6. There is so much to praise Melanie for I don't even know where to start. She is one of the most kind, caring, and genuine people we have come into contact with. Add those qualities to a strong understanding of the law and you have a warrior to fight for you. She went above and beyond to no only fight for what was right, but to emotionally support us through our hard time. She changed our lives in so many ways and we are so thankful we found her.
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05 Apr, 2024 by Jon hall
Signified Law stands for what is right. In a world that is lost in misinformation, manipulation, and cowardice Signified Law is not afraid to stand up for what is right. If you are looking to be represented by a law firm that will do everything in their power to make sure you get your justice, this is the law firm for you. It is refreshing to know that this quote from MLK is still true. "The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice." Thank you Signified Law!
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30 Jul, 2021 by Tronica vanzant
I was referred to Melanie by a good friend who had glowing things to say about her not just as an attorney, but as a kind, thoughtful and ethical person. I was not disappointed. While my case was more of a business issue rather than a family law issue, she responded to my desire for understanding and guidance with a well thought out response that helped me understand the several options available to me even given my issue was with a company based in another country. It was a pleasure to work with Melanie and I would not hesitate to refer anyone I know to her for thoughtful insight and guidance.
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13 Dec, 2023 by Abdi mohamed
John Hammer represented me in a court case. He has been available to give me necessary advice whenever i try to reach him, either on phone or through physical meetings. Very professional and honest person. Thank you John for all the support.
Abdi Abdi.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Thomas donahue
Totally awesome attorney!
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21 Oct, 2023 by Brad donahue
Very knowledgeable and professional lawyer!
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27 Feb, 2024 by Gebo
Awesome criminal attorney! Would recommend!! Friendliest and very knowledgeable!
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14 Apr, 2023 by Jd perry
05 Dec, 2020 by Benjamin kemp
21 Feb, 2021 by Bashi kutai
Mr. Alexander Novak has assisted our family in numerous matters and has always proven to be super- professional and efficient. We highly recommend his services!
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09 Feb, 2021 by Harrison wolpoe
Mr. Aryeh was able to understand my concerns and helped find a solution that best fit my personal needs. I felt comfortable and confident speaking to Mr. Aryeh, knowing I was in good hands.
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28 Jan, 2021 by Taly aryeh
14 Feb, 2024 by Reginald craig
I just think the world of Lindsey & her talent.
She wasn't cheap but ended up saving me much more than the cost by getting my child support payments for both of my sons, zeroed out and justifiably so!
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29 Jan, 2024 by Richard hubler
12 Mar, 2021 by Adrienne kane
A true professional and quick to respond in a time of crisis! Thank you so much for your help in our time of need. Our family is forever thankful.
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15 Nov, 2020 by Pik
A coworker that knew I needed a divorce attorney recommended Jan in 2007. I'm Asian and at the time spoke limited English. She patiently listened to my story and assured me that she could help. I suggested having a translator for the court room but Jan told me that she understood me well and that together we would present the case. She turned an impossible situation into a very good settlement for me and my children.
Since then I think of Jan as a friend I can reach out to for any legal needs including my will, healthcare and durable powers of attorney.
Most recently she helped my son with his own child custody settlement.
If you need legal help I highly recommend Jan Holleywell-Smith, she is a very good attorney.
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19 Jul, 2019 by Billee
My job recommended using Jan to handle my divorce and after the entire process, I am blown away at her focus, intelligence and patience of ME to get this done. Another law firm took advantage of me, but Jan restored my faith in lawyers and I will recommend her to anyone who seeks a lawyer. I need at least 1,000 STARS to rate this phenomenal lawyer!
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24 Dec, 2018 by Amy
I was desperate to find someone to help me get divorced, and I feel so blessed to have found Ms. Jan. She really listened to me and did everything to get me out of my marriage as quickly as possible. I couldn't be happier and recommend her to everyone I can.
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24 Aug, 2023 by Azfar khan
Amazing service and knowledge!
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08 May, 2023 by Carolay vasquez
Gracias a DIOS por poner en nuestro camino ala mejor abogada Shamaila Malik sin duda es la mejor la recomendamos 👌👏
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19 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr Alvarado was professional he walked me thru the toughest thing I had to thru.Thank you
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09 Apr, 2024 by Britta pedersen
24 Aug, 2023 by Aileen trues
I consulted with Mr Herger, who was kind enough to give me his time. He thoroughly covered all the angles of my difficult case, gave me more information to consider, and answered my questions patiently and concisely, and then some. He is the consummate professional. I highly recommend.
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02 Jun, 2021 by Vinicio oliveira
Peter Herger was extremely helpful navigating my child custody case. He is responsive and helpful in explaining different ascents of the legal system and courts. Ultimately he is honest and trustworthy and I highly recommend him!
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24 Aug, 2024 by Danielle manning
Kelly was recommended to me by a coworker for a divorce lawyer. The first day I met Kelly I felt she was compassionate about my case. I expressed my concerns going into the divorce and I feel she never let those concerns be forgotten. She was very patient as unfortunately my case was lengthy. But she never stopped defending me. It's evident she cares about her clients.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Ryan moore
Cant say nothing more than great things about kelly! She was absolutely outstanding and put mine and my daughters needs first over everything. If your looking for someone who has your best interest in mind and will fight for you, then you need kelly on your side!! would give 10 stars if i could
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11 Oct, 2021 by Kelsey glastetter
06 Sep, 2023 by John smith
Attention to detail. Easy to get a hold off
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07 Mar, 2022 by Justin k
16 Jul, 2021 by Paul mangione
02 Aug, 2024 by Kendrick martin
❤️❤️💯🤝🏾 picked up my case with no problem and very professional and understanding. Thank you Bradley Law Firm
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06 Jan, 2022 by Laura
Todd really cares about his clients. He puts in every effort to make sure you are 100% happy. He’s always there when you need him and what I love the most is that your not just another $. He treats you like a person. I would definitely recommend him! I would use him again if I need him.
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29 Dec, 2021 by Robert
My advice is to avoid family law but if you must, Todd Glassman is your guy. His honesty and attention to my case was detailed and authentic after switching to him mid child custody case. I completely trust him and he delivered on all of his consultation promises unlike previous lawyers.
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06 Feb, 2018 by S t
Sam is a good, honest attorney, I highly recommend him.
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09 Dec, 2015 by Jill s.
Cindy Best and her Firm are Superior in their profession. I can not express enough the gratitude I feel towards Ms. Best and her Firm after the premium job they did with our case. No stone was left unturned. Every pertinent detail was presented. Ms. Best is top notch with her research and preparation. She is thorough and effective when working with clients and witness testimony. She is equally as thorough and effective when cross examining opposing party witnesses. Her experience with domestic violence has provided her with invaluable and reliable resources utilized for her clients. She is "no nonsense" and honest when relaying information and potential outcome for each situation that arose. The opposing party was beyond difficult and unethical. She handled them effectively as well. She and her staff are a pleasure to work with. Every single person there is a pleasure to work with and they really work as a Team. Words can't describe the gratitude I have for Ms. Best and her team. Thank you All!
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30 Oct, 2013 by Christopher
I am sure everyone says this but i had a very unique situation that required Cindy and her team to do research that was out of the oridnary for our custody case. They went above and beyond my expectations. Cindy and her team were able to help the judge to see things I have been trying to get others to see for years. In the end, my son is better off since we won our case and he is happier and healthier then ever which in the end.. is all we wanted. I went into the court process thinking since I am a Dad I would never get what I wanted but that couldn't be further from the truth. Cindy saw the reality of our situation and fought hard for what was the best interest of my son. We have used other lawyers in the past that were too afraid to battle custody against my son's Mother however, Cindy put all that aside and fought for the best interest of the child, she will continue to be our first and only choice in the event we need family law in the future.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Jeremy zebas
THE ABSOLUTE BEST PUBLIC DEFENDER IVE EVER MET HE IS A DEFENDER NOT A PRETENDER HE ACTUALLY IS THERE FOR YOU AND CARES AND GIVES HIS ALL TO EVERY ONE OF HIS CASES HE TRULY KNOWS WHAT HE IS DOING AND WILL GO ABOVE AND BEYOND HIS PAY GRADE THIS GUY NEEDS A METAL, OR A PAY RAISE HE IS JUST AMAZING!!! IS there anyway I could pay him/you to do an adult case? If I pay cash? Because he/you are/ is the only attorney that I've met that I trust to actually give this case your all please tell me you can!?!? Or maybe refer me to someone with your same drive and morals? ( If someone like this even exists?) I will call your office on Monday thank you so much for your services defending our community against the crooked system that it has became!
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02 Jun, 2021 by Amanda hurt
22 Dec, 2020 by Randy kunes
David Kovalik is a great and honest attorney. He is competent at his practice and very honest about outcomes. He is very clear and concise and knows the law. He stuck with us to the very end and without him we wouldn't have established our grandparents rights to see our grandson on a weekly basis.
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27 Nov, 2023 by Merina lama
Attorney Andrew is the best. I got him at the very last moment for my case and he was willing to take it and help me. He is very knowledgeable, he knows what he is doing and offer you 2 or 3 solutions depending on your case. He is very compassionate and has the best intention for the clients that he is working with. He is not one of those lawyers who is there just to make money off of you, he is there to help you at any cost to the best of his abilities. He is truly one of a kind. Very thankful i got to work with him and he was the one who handled my case.
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14 Jun, 2023 by Syrina wells
24 Apr, 2022 by Danielle deschamps
Ok
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
