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14 Jan, 2022 by Asher goldman
I was waiting to post a review until my divorce was finalized, as I have had bad experiences with lawyers before. Couldn't be happier with her services! I was very worried going into my divorce, but Laura was straight forward, and didn't promise on anything she wouldn't be able to deliver. Her and her team guided me through the process clearly and efficiently. I would recommend her to anyone!
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14 Jan, 2022 by Paul remer
I highly recommend Laura - she was very helpful with my divorce case and will be recommending her to everyone I know. Thank you
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12 Jan, 2022 by Drew
I have hired attorneys in the past and was left with the feeling that my voice didn't matter. Being charged for the smallest things, even making a single copy and postage to mail a letter, seemed to be more of a priority. I had the exact opposite experience with Ms. Baluch. She really listened to me, fought for what I wanted, and didn't nickel and dime me for every little thing which was appreciated. Communication with her and her staff was great and put my mind at ease during a very stressful time. I highly recommend her!
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02 Apr, 2024 by Tim
Peter James esq. has been my armor and shield against my narcissistic Borderline personality ex-wife saying anything she thinks might sway the judge including (I kid you not) that I treat our daughter like "a modern-day Cinderella" in her actual motion! Peter often cited cases of precedence from memory during consultation and always included these in his written and verbal arguments. He did not waste time with hearsay and stuck to referencing actual requisites of family law for the judge to weigh against whatever false or twisted half truth that (sadly in Nevada) must be taken as true unless evidence to the contrary is provided. Peter is the only reason I have maintained primary custody of my kids and I am so grateful.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Amy
I hired Peter James, in January 2024 he has been absolutely wonderful, extremely knowledgeable, and very, very responsive as well as his office staff, I could not be happier with who I chose to represent me!
I have found my forever attorney,highly recommend him!
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26 Mar, 2024 by Lauren
**Title: Exemplary Legal Support: Peter James and April Schultz Shine Bright!**
In the often turbulent waters of family law, finding a guiding light can make all the difference. Look no further than the remarkable duo of Family Law Attorney Peter James and his invaluable Legal Assistant, April Schultz. Their unwavering commitment to their clients is nothing short of extraordinary.
Peter James is not just an attorney; he's a beacon of strength and wisdom in navigating the complexities of family legal matters. His wealth of knowledge and profound understanding of the law are matched only by his genuine compassion for those he represents. Peter approaches each case with a blend of expertise and empathy that instills confidence and reassurance in his clients.
Behind Peter stands April Schultz, a legal assistant par excellence. April's attention to detail and dedication to her craft are truly commendable. From managing schedules to ensuring documents are meticulously prepared, April's contributions are invaluable to the seamless operation of their practice. Her warmth and professionalism create a welcoming environment for clients facing challenging circumstances.
Together, Peter and April form an unstoppable team. Their collaborative approach and unwavering dedication set them apart in the legal field. They take the time to listen attentively to their clients' concerns, providing guidance and support every step of the way. With Peter's expertise and April's diligent assistance, clients can rest assured that their cases are in the most capable hands.
What truly sets Peter and April apart is their genuine care for their clients' well-being. They understand that family legal matters can be emotionally taxing, and they offer not just legal expertise, but also empathy and understanding. Their personalized approach ensures that each client feels heard, valued, and empowered throughout the legal process.
Thanks to Peter and April's dedication, I was able to navigate a challenging family law matter with confidence and peace of mind. Their professionalism and unwavering support were instrumental in achieving a positive outcome. If you're searching for a family law attorney and legal assistant who will go above and beyond for you, look no further than Peter James and April Schultz. They are a shining example of excellence in the legal profession.
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14 Mar, 2019 by Krystal
I was dealing with a very difficult situation, and it was only for a referee hearing our divorce was already final. Lana was very supportive, caring, forthright, and so knowledgeable about all the laws. She helped me stand tall with a difficult ex and took my financial situation into account. She knew that the money I was using was a gift from a friend who had passed away and was very good about ensuring I received what was left when we closed the case. She was able to help me realize he couldn't bully me any longer.. I wish I would have used her for my divorce!! Her care for her clients is amazing and her 1st priority are the children involved and taking care of her clients. She is AMAZING!!! I was absolutely grateful to have found her. I will absolutely use her again and always refer her to everyone I know! This review is long over due-Lana-Thank you for all you did!!!!
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03 Apr, 2018 by Jen
Lana and her team are there for you every step of the way. She is truly an outstanding attorney who cares a lot about her clients and making sure their needs are met. I’m truly grateful for Lana and all that she’s done for me!
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25 Feb, 2016 by Tony
Lana is not only very professional, she is a compassionate person. After I was refereed to a lawyer, I decided I wanted to keep looking because I had that feeling that the lawyer seen me as just another case. Then I found Lana. Lana was very different and I am so glad to have run into her. Do yourself a favor and consider her as your attorney. You won't find a better person to give you legal advice; that goes a long way for me. She is also extremely knowledgeable while providing an experience that feels so much more than a legal consultation. She's a real human being and you just can't find that anywhere else. I rarely write reviews, but in this case, I had to go out and provide a very positive review.
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02 Apr, 2021 by Adam
Ronald was excellent. This was my first time in my life having to use any type of lawyer. After 28 years of marriage I was struggling with my ex wifes decision to get a divorce. Ron recognized this and helped me tremendously. Not only did he help explain the steps and procedures but he also was concerned for me personally because of my emotional state of going through the divorce. Ron always conducted himself professionally. During the pandemic and having to adjust to the virual world was very different. He did an exceptional job in helping me with this. I will definitely recommend Ronald in the future for anyone in need of a lawyer.
Thank you.
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01 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Ron to resolve insurance co-pays for my last year of Child Support. The original Court Order stated my ex would provide my daughter's insurance and I was responsible for 75% of the co-pays or out of pocket expenses. In 2014 my ex could no longer afford health insurance for my daughter. I took over paying my daughter's health care insurance.
My ex waited until 3 months before my daughter's 18th birthday to file documentation with DES for $11,000 of unpaid out of pocket expenses. The actual amount was $4,000. Ron was critical to resolving the issue and my final payment of $4,000.
Prior to retaining Ron I had utilized the services of a well known family law firm that was supposed to be one of the best for "father's rights". Ron far exceeded what the original law firm accomplished with my case.
Highly Recommended!!!!
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01 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I couldn't have been happier with the result of my case! Ron diligently worked through multiple layers of delays and complications (including the wrongful removal of a child to another country). Ron consistently kept me up-to-date and I felt very confident that he would achieve the desired outcome. You will not regret having Ron represent you!
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30 Oct, 2023 by Cara
Mr. Straffi (JR) is a safe space to go to
discuss a vulnerable situation, such as
claiming bankruptcy. Not only did he
reassure me that things happen, he made
sure I wasn't confused or alone in the
process as well. He answers all questions
with a smile and confidence, and
practically guides you through all the hard parts. The first lawyer I went couldn't help me, he gave me Mr. Straffi's card. (l'm so grateful to that man because he was a little mean to be honest, I don't even want to imagine how it would have went with him.)
If you're curious and reading my review
don't hesitate. He handled my case with
care and never once made me feel
ashamed about my situation. l'm so
grateful to him and his staff (they are
EQUALLY as helpful and friendly!!) 10/10
definitely recommend.
Thanks again Mr. Straffi!!
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09 Aug, 2023 by Christine
Being very nervous when I first contacted Daniel Straffi he made me feel calm and relaxed. He listened to all my questions and explained what would happen to help me. His whole office was very compassionate and I was very happy I chose him for my bankruptcy.
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15 Nov, 2022 by Mark
Highly recommend Mr. Straffi Jr. and his office staff. I was so stressed out about filling for bankruptcy Mr. Straffi and his staff made the whole process a stress-free experience for me. His office always answered my calls and responded quickly to my emails with exceptional professionalism,knowledge,and respect.The process was quick and stress-free. I can't thank him and his staff enough for all the work they put into my case. I'm forever grateful. Thanks again!!!
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21 Apr, 2024 by Jason
After 10 years of a nasty divorce & custody battle, Lisa Batts and her firm took my case and have impressed me beyond words. I feel like they stepped in at the 11th hour, but they got up to speed and prepared more than I expected. With their help, I felt ready and informed. Lisa's counsel has proven wise, helped us avoid court a few times over smaller issues and when the big hearing finally happened, Lisa was incredible in court! I highly recommend this firm!
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21 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Lisa is the best attorney I have ever met. She is extremely detailed and very well spoken. She is more then prepared for the court room and her experience benefits anyone she is representing.
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10 Dec, 2019 by For the kids!!
Lisa was highly recommended to me! She is knowledgeable, hard working, thoughtful and kind! I strongly suggest you hire her and her staff when needed.
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25 Apr, 2017 by Todd
My wife and I worked with Suzanne during a custody and child support modification that my ex-wife filed around the time when the previous poster who chose to remain "Anonymous" commented and gave a one-star rating. To that poster - you know your case better than anyone else including your attorney and if you catch something in a draft document that your attorney didn't - so what. It's your case so you should be reading the documents, catching things, and making changes/suggestions too. If there is something that is important to you, then stick to your guns. Don't blame your attorney because something that they might not view as important in the grand scheme of the case may be very important to you for some particular reason. So communicate that to you, it is important and why it is such and recognize that sometimes it is easier to give on something if it means you can move on.
For me, I was extremely pleased with Suzanne on everything from responsiveness, timeliness, counseling within the legal guidelines, documenting, settling, and finalizing the entire custody and child support modification. In working with Suzanne, I felt that it was a team effort - my wife and I had our role, Suzanne had hers, and we coordinated on everything in between - strategy, ideas, negotiating points, documentation, etc. She is very direct, engaging, and is very timely in her responses and turnaround time. My only regret is that I didn't have Suzanne as the attorney for my divorce and the first modification. Thanks, Suzanne.
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29 Apr, 2015 by Jamie
Me and my wife recently finalized an adoption with Ms. Prescott. We initially started the process with another lawyer and was getting no where. My wife located Ms. Prescott and gave her a call. From the very first meeting we felt very comfortable with her and she was very excited to work our case. There were some snags along the way but not from their doing. There were several waiting periods on certain things but her office stayed on top of them and communicated what was going on when we asked and even when we didn't. The adoption was very sensitive and Suzanne made sure certain things were not mentioned to our daughter. Really and truly we just kind of sat back and cruised through the whole process. I am now the daddy to two beautiful children and have Suzanne and her great office staff to thank!!!!
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07 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Prescott made my divorce quick and easy. I felt I could tell her important details without trepidation or judgement. She is very quick to respond and was available to me beyond traditional business hours and across multiple modes of communication. Ms. Prescott's knowledge and expertise gave me confidence during a very difficult time. I feel that she has my (and my child's) best interest at heart and I am very happy and satisfied with the results of my case. She was very clear and communicative throughout the entire process and to top it all off, has a great sense of humor. In the time I have been a client, I have referred several people to her to retain her services.
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5.0
20 Reviews
27 Jan, 2024 by Sidney
After being with a nationally advertised law firm for a year, I was given a list of alternative litigators for my life event.
Kristine Cummings listened and followed up and within a month did more than the my previous attorneys could do in a year. In doing so, she saved my life. Kristine, along with her team treated me with dignity and respect.
You can search long and wide for an attorney but you’ll never find one better than Kristine. She is quite literally a life-saver!!!
Eternally grateful,
Sidney in Elk Grove, CA
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22 Nov, 2023 by Teresa
Kristine walked me through every step of the process of my divorce, ending a 34 year marriage. She always knew when to be direct and when to show patience and compassion. I was overwhelmed by the legal process, but she was savvy and always looking out for my best interests. The highest compliment I can give her is that I was able to relax during this difficult process, knowing she had everything in hand. I highly recommend Kristine to anyone looking for competence, expedience, professionalism and compassion.
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05 Jul, 2023 by Mary
Kristine is not just an amazing lawyer, she is patient, kind, and a truly wonderful human being. Going through the divorce process is not for the faint of heart, but Kristine is wicked smart, is well respected by her peers, and made the process bearable. She is patient with questions, quick to answer emails, and has a wonderful staff. She is a gem!
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15 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
From the first initial conversation, Susan and her team have been nothing short of excellent. The team was very empathetic and compassionate about my divorce situation. She and the team took the initiative and responsibility to explain each step and the process, along with the best options for me to think about and make a decision. They were just SUPERFANTASTIC at what they do and how they treated me as a person and a client.
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03 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Susan is an outstanding attorney. She is highly responsive, detail oriented, highly empathetic, and overall a tremendous advocate for her clients. I felt very comfortable raising questions and concerns and always felt like Susan had my best interests in mind. During a difficult process, I felt very confident in Susan's abilities to represent me and all things considered, the outcomes of the case were very positive. I feel 100% sure that i chose the correct attorney for my case and would not hesitate to fully recommend Susan to anyone in need of legal services along the lines of her subject-matter expertise.
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29 May, 2019 by Jacquelin
I honestly can't praise or recommend Susan Butler and her staff enough! From 2006 through 2013 we hired her to represent us in a guardianship case. In 2008, I hired her to represent me in a divorce from my ex-husband. In 2012, my husband and I hired her in his child custody case. In 2013, we hired her to represent us in our adoption case. Each time we were able to obtain the outcome we wanted for our children and ourselves. Susan is extremely knowledgeable and straight forward. She holds herself to the highest degree of professionalism, and it shows in how she carries herself in and outside of the courtroom. Her care and compassion for those she represents is beyond comparison. The care and time she puts into the cases she takes shows in her representation of her clients, and in the handling of her cases. Her compassionate and knowledgeable staff have also been amazing! Her paralegal, Denise, has heard me cry in times of struggle, but encouraged me that Susan would see us through and fight for what was right. Susan fights for what is in the children's best interest, and won't back down! We've always said she was our BEST advocate for our children, and for ourselves!!! To this day our children will occasionally ask about her, and we've taken a few trips to her office to see her. She has made a positive impact on our children and their lives, and they adore her. I can't thank her enough for all her hard work and time she put into our cases. To be completely honest, if your looking for an attorney she is the one you want beside you, not the attorney your fighting against!!!
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09 Nov, 2022 by Kyle
I cant say enough good things about Steven Stolar and his team of lawyers. Steven always returned my calls and answered my questions. Mr. Stolar with the help from his associate was was able to negotiate a reasonable solution to my case. They did what other law firms could not do. I couldn't be happier with their services and I would recommend them to anyone.
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13 Aug, 2021 by Brandan
Stolar Law did an excellent job facilitating my asset mediation. Not only did Bill and Jenny meet my every need, they went above and beyond! Thank you for affording me peace of mind during this stressful time. I'm very happy with the results. 10/10
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13 Aug, 2021 by Amanda
I have to say that these guys are amazing and have gone above and beyond for me and my family. I can start with Jenny Barizian who has made this difficult time in my life so much easier. She is probably one of the smartest and sweetest woman I've ever met and she is on point with everything she does. Steven Stolar is a very professional man who I trust completely and last but not least is Bill Hinz who was my attorney and his performance exceeded my expectations. I can't thank him enough! If you need legal representation Steven Stolar Law is the way to go!!
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08 Jan, 2024 by Kelly
Mr. Zitney provided exceptional service as he represented me during my recent divorce proceedings. He provided exceptional representation and he was quick to respond to any questions and concerns I may have had during the process. He is truly concerned about his clients and he worked extremely hard to put me in the best possible financial positions after my case was over. Additionally, his staff provided prompt answers to all my questions and I felt the strong support of his team throughout the entire process - he his very highly recommended.
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27 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Zitney is highly knowledgeable, professional & advises on his clients' best interests from start to finish. My case was complex and draining, however he provided me with exceptional advisement and service that benefited not only myself, but also my children.
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23 Dec, 2022 by Claudia
No doubt divorce is disruptive, emotionally and financially draining. The last thing you need to worry about is if your attorney is honest and looking out for your best interests. Mr Zitney is both honest and skilled. He listened to and understood what was important to me in the settlement. He presented me best and worst case scenarios and he immediately went to work. He represented me with dignity. MT his legal assistant/paralegal doesn't ever sleep! She kept me updated on the status of my case. Its been said a good divorce is when both sides lose. Thanks to Mr Zitney I got the best possible outcome, I got what was most important to me.
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30 Nov, 2021 by J.d.
Divorce is a dark and lonely abyss. Anyone that’s ever journeyed through this perilous path to reach freedom and peace understands what I mean. Kim Ma was that beacon of hope to help me reach the destination in one piece.
There are many false presumptions and threats made during this time from both sides. There are those attorneys that promise but doesn’t deliver. Kim Ma is the gold standard. Kim provide the law and realistic expectations, not just what I wanted to hear.
In the court room, Kim was poised and established a clear respectful presence. She was factual and experienced with the process and people.
My divorce process was extremely long due to the unwillingness of the other party. During this time, I felt that my retainer and fee was reasonable and every dollar was worth it. I received a monthly statement showing where my charges were, received copies of every document, and they remembered my specific situation without me reiterating throughout the years of my case. Email and phone communication was timely and always followed through.
My only regret was not going to Kim sooner. She navigated me through the treacherous storm. Thank you.
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16 Aug, 2019 by Rocky
I am so incredibly grateful I found Kim at Cameron Fernandez. I was represented by Kim in my divorce case in the Sacramento judicial system. She is an absolutely consummate professional in every aspect of the word. She's incredibly knowledgeable, intelligent, kind, patient and courteous. Above all she knows law and she knows it very well. She's a solid communicator and was there for me every step of the way. She was available for me night/ weekends/ holidays -- it made no difference. She always made time for me and made me feel like my case was a priority for her. When I begun my search for an attorney I felt extremely overwhelmed. She was referred to me by another attorney in the Sacramento area; and like I said - so tremendously grateful I found her. She is a senior attorney at her firm and is certified in family law. Her credentials speak volumes.
Her office is clean, quiet, centrally located and plenty of free parking. Not like other firms in Sacramento requiring paid parking/ meters/ parking validation... which can make a difficult emotional situation even worse. I definitely can appreciate the accessibility, and also not far from the Courthouse.
Her Administrator, Sherri is also so incredibly kind and knowledgeable as well. They make such a great team and I also appreciate her as well.
Should you find yourself in need of a very good family law attorney, I would not hesitate to recommend Kim in a heartbeat.
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11 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
In 2016, I filed for custody and won by default. Shortly after, my ex filed to dispute custody, and filed a pretentious emergency ex parte hearing. I only had 24 hours, and knew I needed an attorney. I spoke to Kim and several others, but Kim seemed more significantly competent, assertive, clearly understood the urgency of my situation and made herself available to represent me at my hearing at which she convinced the judge not to send my daughter out of state to live with her mother.
She continued to help me navigate a difficult and contested custody fight, during which I was simultaneously fighting a criminal case that led to CPS involvement. On top of this, my ex made many false claims against me in court. Despite these major hurtles, Kim expertly represented me, and was able to get me full physical and legal custody.
In court, she was conspicuously more composed and experienced than my ex's attorney. Seeing Kim in court leaves me feeling very confident knowing that she represents me. Kim knows the law inside and out, and understands what steps and direction need to be taken.
Just recently in 2019, my daughter had to travel out of state for summer visitation. During this time, she was subjected to major emotional trauma, and placed maliciously into a psyche ward by her mother who would not let my daughter speak with her family. Her mother filed for custody in a state other than in which she lives who was not aware of the existing order and lied to the judge about existing court orders which resulted in her being awarded full custody under false pretenses. Again she made numerous wild accusations and had filed fake CPS allegations against my family members.
Once again I called Kim. Kim knew exactly what to do, and what to avoid. She communicates extremely well, making sure that I knew what I needed to be doing and what the next steps were. She emailed me even at 6 AM on the weekend, working around the clock to help me get my daughter back, which again made me feel better knowing I had Kim with me.
For this case I hired an attorney in the other state as well, and Kim coordinated perfectly with them, demonstrating a strong capability to handle even more difficult cases. She very quickly won return of custody and I was able to bring my daughter home.
I can't express strongly enough how grateful I am to have Kim as my attorney. I absolutely recommend that you give her a call if you are dealing with family law issues.
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5.0
20 Reviews
23 Feb, 2021 by Alejandro
I personally would highly recommend Betsy Salcedo, she is very quick, intentive, and really knows what she is doing. Not is she friendly and highly professional but is also fairly priced. Ms. Salcedo never failed to exceed, I was always satisfied with her work. She has a great ability to grab all of the bits and pieces of information and when it came to my defence was able to effectively use that information. when ever I had a question Ms. Salcedo would always be more than happy to take the time out of her day to answer them.
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22 Feb, 2021 by Fred avant
Ms Betsy Salcedo is the best lawyer ever. Very tremendous at what she does I highly appreciate her for what her Firm has done for me she saved me so alot of money from owing child support. I would Highly recommend if anyone is in need Betsy Salcedo law Firm is the way to go. SHE LEADS THE WAY!!!!!!!!
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22 Feb, 2021 by Dennae
Betsy has been my saving grace through the most hellacious time in my life. She has been fair with payments and pricing as she knows that I am struggling financially. She has taken phone calls and texts at crazy times and has even called while she was assisting her son with homework when I was in a panic. She takes her time and explains what may or may not happen.
Neither of us knew my case would take a turn the way it has and she has gone above and beyond to get me what I deserve for my children. I recommend her to everyone I know!
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12 Apr, 2023 by H. frank
If you are looking for justice this is the right lawyer for you. He is an honest lawyer I have to say thank you Mr. Cripps
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24 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I had been using Mr. Cripps from the time my son was 2 for my initial divorce and child support and his fathers indiscretions until he was 13. Never once did he promise me ANYTHING! There were times I felt so frustrated and wondered what the hell he was doing? Why wasn’t he ordering drug tests? Why wasn’t he fighting harder? All the while what I didn’t know was that Mr. Cripps knew the system inside and out and knew it would not fly. Not to mention the integrity and trust he has built with the courts is stellar! They know he’s not there to just throw anything at the wall to see if it sticks. The many many times we were in court we won, EVERY TIME! And when my sons father would show with a high payed attorney that his mom payed for they would try and bs, along with my ex, and lost! The one thing I truly regret was listening to a friend who convinced me to use another attorney at a very crucial point in time, that he had used and I ended up paying probably about 6 times what I would have paid with Cripps and I know he still would have done better than she did. I still won but even she didn’t think she did. There is no doubt in my mind he would have too! And better! Mr. Cripps would always talk me down. I was very emotional, scared, lost, angry, all the things! And he was so patient with me. I will never forget the one thing I always remember and carry with me that he told me, “he will hang himself” he said to me. At the time that frustrated me but when I look back I can tell he knew the type. He simply has seen it all. Mr. Cripps has a secret guys. He reads people. He knows what he is doing without having to charge people what these other thieving lawyers do! All with integrity, honesty, trust, and just no bs! So if you are looking to spend a lot of money on a “tiger” go right ahead! But my money would be on Mr. Cripps every time! He truly is a Godsend!
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29 Jan, 2022 by Matt
Where to start?? I went thru a 2 year divorce, and Mr Cripps was with me every step of the way. Her lawyer tried to screw me every step of the way, and Mr Cripple blocked them every time, they had ZERO wins! He may not tell you what you want to hear, but he will ALWAYS tell you what's in your best interest. This is a very emotional time, and your not always thinking straight, but he ALWAYS is !! I dont think you could find better representation!!
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27 Mar, 2024 by Samantha
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional representation provided by Attorney Johnny Riddick during my recent divorce case, which spanned a yearlong process. From the moment I enlisted his services, Mr. Riddick displayed unparalleled professionalism, expertise, and unwavering dedication to achieving the best possible outcome for me and my children.
One aspect of Mr. Riddick's approach that truly stood out was his remarkable kindness and respect towards everyone involved in the proceedings, including the opposing attorney and the plaintiff. Despite the inherent tensions and adversarial nature of divorce litigation, Mr. Riddick consistently maintained a demeanor of civility and empathy, fostering an atmosphere of cooperation and mutual respect. His ability to navigate the complexities of the legal process with such grace and diplomacy was truly remarkable.
Thanks to Mr. Riddick's astute legal strategies and tireless advocacy, I was able to secure sole custody of my two children, ensuring their well-being and security remained the utmost priority. Additionally, Mr. Riddick skillfully negotiated for me to retain possession and ownership of the marital home, providing stability and a sense of continuity for my family during this challenging transition.
Throughout the entirety of my case, Attorney Riddick demonstrated an unparalleled level of professionalism and integrity. He approached every aspect of the proceedings with meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to securing a favorable outcome on my behalf. His guidance and expertise were invaluable assets, providing me with confidence and peace of mind during what was undoubtedly a difficult and emotionally taxing experience.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Attorney Johnny Riddick to anyone in need of legal representation for their divorce case. His exceptional skills, compassionate demeanor, and unwavering dedication to his clients make him a truly exceptional advocate above approach. I am profoundly grateful for his assistance and could not have asked for a better ally during this challenging time.
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30 Nov, 2022 by Es
I was referred to Mr. Riddick by another lawyer. The lawyer told me that Mr. Riddick was a great attorney. My matter involved gaining more access to my only child, a son. My son's mother wanted sole custody and for me to have much less visitation.
I explained the situation to Mr. Riddick, and he gave me his thoughts and advice on how best to proceed. Mr. Riddick talked to me in a way that made sense, and it was clear that we was quite experienced.
The case took a little less than a year to conclude, but was just resolved favorably for me. Instead of my child's mother getting sole custody, I kept joint custody and got almost double the time I had been getting. For sure, I got a great result.
But I received more than good legal advice. Mr. Riddick encouraged me in other areas of my life, including pushing me to purchase a home, which I am preparing to do, and maintaining a proper relationship with my son's mother, who can be a very difficult person.
I feel like I have really grown as a young man while the case was pending. The case is now over. And Mr. Riddick treated me really well.
He is a terrific lawyer.
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27 Oct, 2022 by Larry e. h.
My wife's co-worker referred me to Mr. Riddick. Her co-worker told her that Mr. Riddick was thorough, thoughtful, and would get the job done. My case was very complex. I got divorced twenty years ago, and my former attorney DID NOT take care of the pension and retirement issues. So my pension and retirement grew substantially.
My ex-wife then came back asking for a huge amount of money from both sources of my retirement, including money that I had earned in a government retirement savings plan. Without stating the amount, I will say it was quite substantial.
My current wife and I met with Mr. Riddick, and after he explained his thoughts about how we should proceed, hired him the same day. It was clear that he understood the complexity of our case. My wife and I both felt totally comfortable with him, and he showed great compassion. I recall him even asking my wife would she stick by me through this situation. My wife said that she would.
Because of the COVID pandemic, our case was delayed for almost two years in the court system. During that time, we attended an Alternative Dispute Resolution meeting, and reached what we thought was a great resolution to the case.
Then my ex-wife tried to back out of the agreement. Mr. Riddick had to file a very complex motion to enforce the agreement, which had been oral. We actually had to have a difficult court hearing in the matter. After the trial, however, the court rendered a decision which ended the matter in our favor. As a result, I have saved hundreds of thousands of dollars in my retirement accounts, and my current wife, if anything happens to me, will receive all of my retirement and survivor's benefits. My ex-wife no longer has any interest in any of my retirement benefits.
This was a fabulous outcome. And my wife and I were treated so well during the process. Great legal work and great treatment as clients.
I definitely recommend him.
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15 Oct, 2018 by Karla
Becky represents my brother in a nasty divorce and custody battle. He lives in Texas and his ex-wife in Las Vegas. Because of lies his wife told the hearings are held in Vegas. Becky put forth and continues to put forth 100% for my brother. Not only has she been able to show the courts what kind of lying, manipulative person his ex-wife and her family are, but she was able to get my brother custody of my niece and reduced visitation for his ex-wife to his daughter. Becky continues to represent him in a professional manner since his ex-wife continues to file motions to keep this in court and in her attempt to drain my brothers money and time and ruin his lively hood. This is one of the most difficult and worst cases seen in a long time by the courts and Becky because of all the lies and deceit told by his ex-wife. I would highly recommend Becky Pintar and not look anywhere else. She can definitely get the job done and work hard to get everything you deserve!
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06 Sep, 2018 by Robert
Honest attorney . Helpful in price
Knows her stuff. Very seasoned
Thank you
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15 May, 2018 by Sheena
Becky truly is a fantastic attorney. After interviewing several attorneys, I hired Becky to handle my divorce. When I first spoke with Becky, she immediately calmed my worries and showed true compassion and empathy. She told me NOT to worry; that everything would be alright, and because of her expertise, everything turned out better than I expected. Becky even allowed me to pay monthly payments when other attorneys demanded payment up front.
Becky and Teresa, her paralegal, would keep on top of the numerous emails and plethora of documents I'd send and ALWAYS were quick to respond by either email or phone call. During the months we worked together Becky told me details matter of factly. She explained exactly what was going to happen and what I would expect with each step (requests for discoveries, settlements, going to court and with mediation). She explained everything so thoroughly I would share the information with my ex-husband as he had not been told by his attorney.
Becky did not sugar coat the information. She was always knowledgeable and truthful. She even gave me some "tough love" advice, which I needed as I was letting my emotions get the best of me.
During mediation, Becky, had my back and strongly negotiated a settlement that was fair. I have NOTHING BUT GOOD WORDS for Becky and her paralegal, Teresa. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Becky Pintar as a divorce attorney.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Nicole dorning
Ken and his team were wonderful from start to finish! Always looking out for my needs and best interest! Highly recommend.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Ehsan mostaghni
If you are looking for an ethical, knowledgable, passionate and well-posed attorney who treats you professionally during your hard times of your life, you should go to Mr. Burgi.
His team also is so professional and helpful.
You are never treated as “ another client” at Mr. Burgi’s office.
I highly recommend Kenneth Burgi.
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05 Apr, 2022 by Amanda
I was referred to The Law Offices of Kenneth Burgi through a friend who had previously worked with him. She had nothing but praises and raves about her experience with him. When faced with the termination of my abusive and violent marriage, I wanted to make sure I chose the right lawyer to represent me. From the first moment I sat down with Mr. Burgi, his gentle soft spoken demeanor was very comforting. Mr. Burgi and his staff were all extremely professional. They handled my case with such delicacy, empathy and care. Mr Burgi went to bat for me. He fought my case with integrity, such determination and went in for the kil when they least expected it. He knew when to press forward and when to sit back and let the other party hang themselves. Mr. Burgi is a fountain of knowledge, a true professional and an all around wonderful family man. Throughout my case, he talked to me, not at me. He made me feel as comfortable as possible in all aspects of the case. Mr. Burgi is an extremely talented, professional lawyer built upon a foundation of years of experience. Mr. Burgi gave me my life back when it had been stolen from me by an evil monster. I highly recommend Mr Burgi and would not hesitate to use him again if needed.
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10 Nov, 2021 by Tifani
Ellen is a rockstar attorney! Sharp, accurate , supportive and constructive to say the least. Her support and willingness to help made throughout the years has made me feel safe and strong. As she continues to support me, I can walk with my head up high knowing she’s on my team.
Ellen, thank you for everything you do. I appreciate all your efforts and kindness throughout the years. You are truly a blessing in my life.
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02 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend Ellen Wright. She is highly professional and very helpful. She handled everything for me and made it easy.
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29 Apr, 2020 by Ashley
Attorney Wright is an extremely talented attorney and very well known among other lawyers and court staff. I was incredibly nervous about my parenting time case and I'm so glad I had her with me. My ex husband was determined to try to take my daughter away from me after the police called DCF on me after my ex boyfriend assaulted me. The whole situation was extremely high conflict and very emotional. Long story short the outcome was a positive one and my daughter is doing well. I highly recommend Ellen and the legal team at her firm to anyone who needs help in family court.
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17 May, 2024 by Elena
Excellent service, people know what they are doing and do it very well . I Would definitely recommend .
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03 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I am a very satisfied client of Ms. Greaves. She put out all effort to help with my case and I got satisfactory results. I found her to be very knowledgeable professional during the whole process. Thank you for been so helpful and understanding.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Kate
Stephanie worked really hard for us even when we had difficulty from the other party and she kept us informed on what step in the process we were in. When the big day came for the final hearing she even put the effort to make my son a big part of it. I recommend her to anyone who needs a family law attorney!
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08 Feb, 2024 by Courtney
Austin was beyond amazing during the arduous process of custody modification. Austin was always very quick to respond and answer the million questions I had through each step. I am thankful for Austin and his team's work! I got the best result I could have gotten, and modifications are not an easy task.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Austin was fantastic in our custody case. He truly cares for his clients and is very focused on doing the best thing for the children involved. I appreciated that he was realistic in the goals we set for our case. He was also able to point us in the right direction for a counselor for our daughter and a Guardian ad Litem. Because of him, we had a dream team of professionals all working toward the goal of keeping our kiddo safe, supported, and providing the best future possible.
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26 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Austin is the best family law practitioner in town imho. The staff at the office are lovely: very professional, friendly and responsive. Austin is very knowledgeable about his area of practice, takes the time to ensure that clients understand their options, and really goes to bat for them. Billing is very clear and uncomplicated. I felt very supported throughout my court case(s) and would ask him to be my lawyer again in a heartbeat if I ever found myself in a legal situation again. Would give him 10 stars if I could!
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13 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Attorney Mayer and his wonderful associate Jill are first exemplary people. During an incredibly difficult divorce process, they have been both attorney and counselor. They represent and embody compassion, knowledge, persistence and a true desire to fight for what is best for your family. They will persevere and fight for you with quiet strength and a fierceness to see the best outcome. As people they are spectacular and as attorneys they are absolutely superb! . They care about you, your family and the long term results. I would absolutely recommend them to help you through a divorce. I am forever grateful to Bill Jill and team for their guidance, wisdom, professionalism and exceptional legal services . I give them an A+.!
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29 Aug, 2022 by Raeanne
There are no words to describe how grateful I am to Bill Mayer for all that he did for me during my difficult divorce. Our first meeting I presented my wish list for what I wanted, and he far exceeded my expectations. He took the time to learn my situation, listen to my many concerns, and was available anytime I needed to talk things through. Any nerves I had were gone after that first time watching him in court fighting for me. He is a true professional, and he put me at ease anytime I felt stressed over the proceedings. His staff was always prompt, courteous and helpful every step of the way. Bill saved me from a lifetime of financial ties to my ex, and for that I am forever thankful. It was actually a pleasure to watch him in court, and I was proud to have him standing next to me. I would without any hesitation recommend Bill and his law firm to anyone going through a divorce.
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27 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I was honored to be represented by such a caring, knowledgeable, well-known, and highly respected expert. This is the strong and noble representation you are fortunate to have by your side no matter how simple or complex your case. Works with an equally highly rated and professional expert team. Personally as I faced a challenging experience, I consider Mr. Mayer to have positively impacted our lives. He saved my child and I by providing us with the support and strategic thinking necessary as we navigated a difficult situation for over a year. I was very fortunate to have been represented by someone of such character and reputation. This is who you want, this is who you need, no matter your case, believe me! In court, when it matters the most in front of a judge, Mr. Mayer brings the brilliance, strength, and elegance to the forefront so that the client's voice is effectively heard.
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28 Dec, 2020 by Peter
William Gallese is the ideal lawyer because he is knowledgeable in so many areas and is very easy to communicate with. After experiencing 17 other attorneys, William was an exceptional advocate.
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04 Oct, 2015 by Peter
Has been there whenever I needed him and settled all problems quickly what ever they were - and has been willing to go the extra mile for me - if you need his opinion or his advice on simple matters he will always be willing to help you
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02 Oct, 2015 by Robert ireland
I hired Mr. Gallese to handle a tenant collections issue, and was awarded a win. The case was settled out of court and I would definitely recommend Mr. Gallese to anyone in need of the legal services he offers.
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17 Dec, 2021 by Trini
I believe certain people come into your life for a reason, and Cynthia Lazar certainly is one of my people. Divorce can be a painful and gut-wrenching process. Cynthia was there for me every step of the way. She is reliable, thorough and provided the best legal advice and service I could have asked for, while keeping both my costs and best interests in mind. Her expertise and approach are second to none! Cynthia Lazar has my highest possible recommendation!
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04 Oct, 2021 by Lisa
Cynthia is friendly, easy to work with, thorough and was fair to both sides during our divorce mediation. She was able to accommodate us with a “pay as you go” payment plan, which made things easier financially during this difficult time. I would definitely recommend her to anyone seeking an amicable divorce through mediation.
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03 Aug, 2021 by Paulette
Cynthia is extremely professional and honest. I wanted an amicable divorce and she was there every step of the way to advise me. I couldn't believe how smoothly the process went. I highly recommend Cynthia.
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31 Mar, 2021 by Jessica
I hired Jackie for my divorce and child custody case, and I am so glad that I did. She is the best of the best. From our very first meeting, Jackie was extremely approachable, understanding, compassionate, and so reassuring. My case became extremely difficult and messy and Jackie was always there to guide me and answer any questions I had. She was very responsive to calls and emails. She was extremely knowledgeable, professional, organized, thorough, honest, and always prepared. I trusted her to only communicate when necessary - she didn’t want to waste my time or my money. I felt heard and supported through every step of the process. I felt like she truly cared about the best interests of my child and me and fought to get the best possible outcome for us.
I hired Jackie again post judgment for additional child custody issues, and again, she did not disappoint. Jackie is simply a rockstar. She went above and beyond both times that I needed her, and I will forever be grateful for the huge role she played during such a difficult and challenging time of my life. I truly feel as if I could not have gotten through my divorce and child custody case, and received the outcome that I did, without Jackie by my side. Not only is she an amazing attorney, but she’s a wonderful person. I would highly recommend her to any of my loved ones. I would 1,000% use her again as my attorney in the future if necessary - I honestly wouldn’t want to be represented by anyone but her. Thank you, Jackie!
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23 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Jackie was able to help me though a difficult time in my life. She separated my emotions from the fact that I needed to take care of my own interests. We started the process before the pandemic and were able to work through the many hurdles it presented. I would highly recommend her.
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23 Mar, 2021 by Corie
Jacquelyn Dupler is an excellent attorney that will not waste your time or money. She represented me in a complicated, contentious divorce and always answered all my questions and concerns fully. She is an amazing advocate for children and her clients.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Nick
Divorce is clearly a journey that I never thought I would end up on. At first, I was clearly in shock, and in desperate need of a guide and someone to support me on this journey. Katie, and the entire firm of Hertz Sager, were supportive, empathetic, and collaborative in the entire process.
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10 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Katie Sager was absolutely fantastic handling my case. I hired Hertz/Sager to take over my prior counsel. Katie was outstanding and professional from start to finish. Katie took the time to truly understand my case and every nuance around my situation (always taking the extra step in diligence). Additionally, she was always clear explaining every aspect of the process and creative around strategic solutions. Her support and depth of knowledge prepared me for every possible scenario. While I felt extremely comfortable and confident knowing I was very protected, I was incredibly appreciative of the humane/respectful nature, while maintain firm positions on our side. While going through depositions, there is no better counsel I could ask for. I would highly recommend Katie and her results-driven firm to anyone looking for a genuine and knowledgeable team.
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02 Dec, 2022 by José
I hired attorney Sager to handle my divorce. She was successful getting the judge to agree to the prenuptial agreement and to prevent having to disclose finances which were not included in the prenup. She carefully worded the marital agreement that my ex wife and I finally signed. The whole process took only a few months.
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13 Mar, 2024 by David campos
Jay did a phenomenal job helping my family in an immigration case. The permanent residency was accepted fast and without an interview. Very supportive and professional.
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25 Jan, 2024 by Mo
Attorney Jay by far is the best attorney in what he’s doing i was dealing with 2 law firms before him all what they cared about was money nothing more which caused me to lose a case a child would have won my last case was something mutual between family law and immigration and was really complicated one I went to attorney Jay and he had shown me alot of attention he would sit with me for hours together to prepare for every single step we’re taking on the hearing day during the trial I didn’t need to go on the witness stand, he didn’t even need to interrogate the other party he just listened carefully and made his statement and i won!!! I couldn’t believe how he made it that easy but now i know because he’s dedicated to his clients what a great lawyer… don’t ever hesitate to hire him as your attorney HE’S THE REAL DEAL
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02 Oct, 2023 by Ambrocio
Was very helpful with my case. Kept me in the loop of things. Will use him the future
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30 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Clark, Lowery and Lumpkin to assist with a very contentious divorce. Naomi took the lead on my case and her expertise and calm demeanor made me immediately feel like I was in great hands. The divorce proceedings took longer than anticipated, but Naomi provided timely updates and was by my side throughout the entire process. Although it was a tough experience, I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney. Naomi is simply the best out there!
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20 Nov, 2023 by Taylor
It’s hard to find the words to describe how amazing Naomi is. She made me feel comfortable & confident from the first time that we spoke. She did an amazing job with my case. She made a constant effort to make sure that I stayed up to date on everything going on & was always prompt with answering questions. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney. Zeelita & Katherine are amazing too! I’m so happy I had Naomi & I would highly recommend her to anyone going through a tough time - she will get the job done & she will get it done right!
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02 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Naomi stepped up during a critical time in my case when my counsel had to take emergency leave. This was not planned, but she made it seamless by stepping in with confidence and grace to get prepared and go before the court. She put my worries to rest quickly and I knew I could trust her to do everything she could. And she did not let me down. It’s great to work with a team that can adjust in this uncertain world to represent you with excellence! Naomi, Cherese and Zeelita are the dream team!
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02 Dec, 2023 by Gabrielle
I initially consulted with Ashley because I got turned away at the courthouse for not having filled out the correct form. The whole process was so confusing to me, and Ashley did a great job in explaining how it works. I decided to hire her to file my divorce for me, and I'm so grateful! She was extremely professional and kind, as well as very flexible with her schedule to make it easy for me to meet with her. I am so appreciative that she handled all the paperwork and court processes for me, as well as explained how to fill out forms in such a patient and easy to understand way. I had a pretty simple divorce all things considered, but she's great at what she does and knows how to get things done quickly!
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03 Nov, 2023 by Massiel
My experience as a client hasn't been anything other than a growing experience. For that I have Ashley to think. Navigating through the court system is not only tricky, but frustrating, amongst many other feelings, and Ashley made sure to not only guide me, but with patience teach me the ways around it as well. I highly recommend Ashley Wahl, not only for her experience and knowledge, but for her human quality which comes in handy when you need someone, not only to vent those frustrating feelings, but to help sort and understand those complicated laws.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Alicia
Ashley A. Wahl, es una joven abogada con gran ímpetu muy profesional con mucha iniciativa, dispuesta a encontrar soluciones a tus necesidades legales. Estoy muy satisfecha con los servicios que ella me brindó. Recomiendo con gran ahínco a Ashley Wahl por su excelente trabajo.
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14 Apr, 2024 by Peter l.
I would definitely recommend Blacha Law Firm to anyone who needs a lawyer for family matters. My lawyer was Elizabeth Youakim. She was awesome, great service, always answered my calls and e-mails, was very knowledgeable and her paralegal Christine Lovendal was very helpful as well, they both never missed a beat with me and would always keep me in the loop and let me know what was going on. They both are very outgoing and kind people. Elizabeth always have good advice on what should be done and said, and she never let me down thank you for your help, I will always be grateful for what Elizabeth has done for me.
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03 Oct, 2021 by Candice peterson
Ms. Blancha's team is excellent. I would recommend her firm you anyone in Cook County looking for family law services. The team is friendly and responds quickly. They handled my case with care and expertise.
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03 Oct, 2021 by Jose
We are grateful to find the help we needed with Blacha Family Law.
They did not just win our case but they guided us through every step in the process of our adoption. They were very informative and professional.
Thank you Blacha Family Law for your services. We are very pleased with the results.
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14 Jul, 2024 by K.m. p.
15 Apr, 2024 by J coston
I am extremely pleased with the services I received from Dwayne. I required a Trust and Will for my Estate Plan. Dwayne was knowledgeable and professional from the first consultation to the closing. He did an amazing job overviewing and explaining my Trust options. When I had additional questions, he was patient and provided detailed explanations. The entire process was completed within weeks. If I require an estate lawyer in the future, I will be using Dwayne again. I would highly recommend him for any Estate Planning services needed.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Jamiah jackson
Dwayne pennant represented me in my case and he was very helpful and supportive throughout the whole process, I highly recommend his representation and I wouldn’t choose any other lawyer to represent me ! I really appreciate him getting me to great a settlement! Thank you again I appreciate your representation!
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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:
-
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.
