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31 Jul, 2024 by L v
I recently used Y&W services for a family law matter. The firm was very respectful and responsive to all aspects of my case. Mr. Young was very gracious and offered a creative solution to meet my needs and I was very appreciative of his efforts. I highly recommend the firm.
Luisa
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02 Mar, 2024 by Michele clow
Rand Pinsky is the most human lawyer I’ve ever spoken to. He was so helpful in providing me with the best information to help me with my issue. He’s as asset to his firm.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Nana kankam
I would highly recommend you look elsewhere for your legal needs, if my experience is any indication of this law firm’s professionalism and competency.
I reached out to Donahue, Young & Williams after finding them via Google, reviewing Yelp reviews, and checking out their website. Everything seemed fine. I had an initial intake call where I explained my situation and what I was generally looking for. I promptly received a legal services agreement, signed it, sent over the agreed upon deposit, and also took the time to compile relevant documentation, as requested by Kaylee. By promptly, I mean within three days. Kaylee and Sherry nearly immediately confirmed receipt of payment and documents, and all seemed well - I was confident that I was dealing with a professional and attentive law firm, and looked forward to getting robust advice. I expected this in a relatively timely fashion, as discussed and confirmed during my initial call.
2+ weeks, and 5 calls/emails later, I emailed to ask if someone could take just a few minutes to write back and give me a sense of when I should expect any feedback/insight/etc. This was a relatively simple landlord/tenant issue, and I’d provided well organized information for their review. Taylor Williams-Moniz, the attorney assigned to my case, emailed me, claiming that her office had called me several times (they had not), and tersely stating that though I wanted an email (I actually just wanted a response rather than radio silence), she needed to have a phone call. I wrote back confirming my phone number and asking if she could ensure they’d been calling me as I had to record of said calls, and also suggested a five hour window of availability for the next business day. No response. I had to follow up again in order to get a response from her legal assistant.
To make a long and frustrating story short, Taylor Williams-Moniz was very nice when I spoke to her, but couldn’t adhere to deadlines she herself set. Melody Dosch was unfortunately not much more helpful than Taylor - and in general I found the law firm to be not extremely well versed on the law (in one instance, Melody told me she would have to get back to me as to whether my unit was covered under a common law that I was able to discover as a layperson, and which should be been considered in the legal advice granted prior to my question), then proceeded to go on vacation and refuse to put her perspective in writing until I followed up repeatedly and insistently. Mark Younger was also very nice, but also totally missed a call we had scheduled with no prior notice. I also never felt like they advocated for my position or were particularly proactive and believe they misrepresented my actions to my landlord’s counsel (to my detriment). And obviously, I really didn’t appreciate having to agitate for a response from them over and over again.
I’d strongly recommend you look elsewhere, as it seems they have a burgeoning habit of playing attentive to get clients to sign, and then deteriorate from there. I also have strong questions on their expertise (at least on landlord/tenant issues) and have some ethical questions about their willingness to give advice without a seemingly thorough understanding of applicable laws.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Roger
Ryan was instrumental in helping bring justice to a very serious crime I was accused of. I was facing some serious charges that could have impacted my life in a very bad way. Though the court process was long, he was persistent and worked endlessly to eventually have my case dismissed. I would highly recommend him.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Wayne simpson
The best by far in Redding California.
He will work for you whatever you are going through.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Paint bro'z inc.
Does what he says he’s going to do. Trustworthy. Follows through his words with action. Willing to work with you.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I retained Brian Mitchell and but was dissatisfied with the fees. Initially, I signed a retainer, only to receive a substantial invoice shortly after demanding additional prompt payment. I was surprised by the sudden request given that I do not recall receiving any prior notice that my retainer had been depleted and needed replenishment.
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16 Jan, 2024 by Paul krause
Words can't express the gratitude I have towards Brian and his team (especially Miki) at Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell. I actually interviewed four different attorneys before I found Brian. I hear horror stories from others regarding their relationship with their attorneys. During a divorce, you need access to the one person you trust that's assisting you in an already difficult chapter of our lives. If you unfortunately need a divorce attorney, you can feel confident knowing they will always have your back!
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30 Oct, 2023 by Jason ritz
Highly recommend. This law firm has been amazing to work with and is a class act. Mr. Mitchell was outstanding explaining my rights as a father and working with the opposing counsel. My situation was a complicated one but Mr. Mitchell was able to write up a parenting plan so I could start seeing my 3 children again after being away from them for 4 years. This firm definitely goes the distance for its clients and the office staff is always there to assist with any questions and I had a lot of them!
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14 Feb, 2023 by Robert castaneda
Eric and his firm really take the time and efforts to make sure you have a strong case. They listen and help point you in the right direction to best win your case. I will always come to Eric and ask for advice and whenever in need, use him again.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Chrystal myers
Ludwig Law Center was referred to me by friends. Eric was my attorney on the first case I had involving child support. Eric did a phenomenal job in court for me. I felt like I was on a television legal show. I didn't believe lawyers were this good in real life. 2 years later I had a problem with my business associate and I went to Michelle since Eric was busy on another long term case. Michelle was extremely professional and kicked booty in the courtroom too. She won that case for me as well as the one Eric won. I am 2 for 2 with this firm and would highly recommend them to friends and family.
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14 Feb, 2023 by Ash
Thank you so much for the wonderful representation you gave me during my divorce case. This was a terrible time in my life and you guys, Eric and Michelle, made me feel safe and protected throughout the whole process. You were so prepared when we went to court and I know that is what helped me get the best judgment I could have gotten. I cannot thank you enough.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Patricia cardenas-mendoza
27 Jan, 2024 by Crystal gonzalez
There is so much I can say about Miguel Jimenez. He is one of the best attorneys I’ve ever seen. He helped me with my custody case and we got exactly what we wanted. He was communicative and quick to respond. We communicated via email and he was quick with it. I felt like he was a really honest and would tell me what I needed to hear. We are now going onto the divorce part but I feel so confident with Miguel I recommend him 100%
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29 Dec, 2023 by Sam seklawi
She is the worst lawyer !! If you will hire her you will lose your case and she will keep sucking your blood till you are out of money !!!what she cares is about money thats all , she used to go to the court snd push it more and more so she can take more money … and she doesn’t know what she is doing .
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4.4
14 Reviews
09 Aug, 2024 by Ray watch4me
I was married for 20 years and live together 15 years the total of 35 years.. We Got to the end where we needed to go our separable ways so I needed to get attorney. After doing my research for a couple days I found Paul. It was the best move I ever did if you need a good attorney that will watch your back all the time he's the one. Thanks again Paul keep up the good work
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09 Aug, 2024 by Katrina nolletti
I highly recommend Lerandeau & Lerandeau! Lacey Sanchez and her team were so patient throughout negotiations with my ex and her lawyer (took 1.5 years to settle) gave excellent advice, and even continued to take my calls and emails while I still paid alimony over the past over the past five years even after official representation ended. I remember Paul telling me when I first went to them patience wins the race, and it did. I will forever be grateful to this team!
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04 Jun, 2024 by Tanya light
I highly recommend LERANDEAU & LERANDEAU. My son was going through a very nasty divorce and our attorney Lacey Sanchez was awesome getting us thru the legal obstacles. I don't know what we would have done without her. She and her team were very responsive to our questions and concerns. All their responses were professional and we never felt like a question or concern was to small or silly to be answered. The office staff are very friendly and helpful at all times.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Horrible experience and I would steer clear of this law firm at all costs! They charge you for every email and second spent on your account, even if the email was regarding correcting their own mistakes! I asked them to correct their errors and typos and they charged me to fix them. If they send you an email (even when you did not request it or outreach to them), they charge you for it! It took me multiple emails just to get my final agreement signed, all of which they charged me for! Ridiculous and unfair billing practices that could bankrupt you. Find a lawyer who actually cares about their clients.
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19 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Ms. Reynolds approach to my family law issues were excellent. She explained effectively that I as a non-lawyer could understand. Her understanding of the law helped to reassure me that my legal position was reasonable. I look forward to my next consultation.
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25 Mar, 2019 by Holly
Christine was terrific. She was always available to answer questions. She was calm, cool and collected prior to our hearings. While I had internal jitters, she was more than confident in us and our case. I would use her and her law firm again if I ever needed anything!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Krista conte
Lori and her team are responsive, thoughtful and sensitive. They helped me through a tough time and also gave me great counsel along the way. I would highly recommend the Costanzo Law Firm.
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24 Aug, 2024 by T williams
Great Firm, very corresponding and versatile to their clients needs. Agenda and goal oriented in seeking justice.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Raquel riopel
30 Aug, 2024 by Raina
Melissa has a thorough understanding of the law and I highly recommend her legal services. She will handle your case with extreme professionalism and truly wants the best for her clients.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Third eye champagne psychic kirsten langston
I cannot say enough about Melissa Cianci. She is a tireless advocate who not only cares deeply about her clients and helping them but has an undeniable talent for litigation. Her performance in the court room is phenomenal. She will fight for you, period. She give you realistic expectations regard your outcomes and she provides top notch client care and goes above and beyond for you. In court, she's nothing less than dazzling. She is kind, intelligent, and extremely good at what she does.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Clarence patterson
Great firm, they are very knowledgeable in the field with a great reputation!
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30 Nov, 2023 by I am bbjnene
Scammers. They had me pay all of the money they were charging me for my case then claim that their business was closing because the owner had “cancer” and I couldn’t get my money back WOULD NOT RECOMMEND. THEY WILL TAKE YOUR MONEY.
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05 Jun, 2022 by Linda l. keating
June 5, 2022 GOLDEN STATE LAW GROUP is EXCELLENT & OFFERS SUPERIOR SERVICE. THANK YOU again for all your great help.
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25 Dec, 2019 by Flint lorraine
I was uncomfortable from the first time I walked into the office. I felt like I was in the middle where they just grind out bankruptcies. I was not happy about filing a bankruptcy but it needed to be done. In the meantime things went from bad to worse my son died and I was in the hospital for a month. When I told them I really wanted to go with a different firm one of their employees told me that they would keep me in court to use all the money. I was talking about small claims court. She was almost yelling at me. I’m thinking about making a complaint with the state attorney board. But I warn you right now stay away from them. I am shortly going to be 74 years old. And the way she yelled at me it was almost elder abuse. I believe their shysters. And due to my failing health. I’ve been delayed and filing a small claims court. To my knowledge you cannot be represented by an attorney in small claims court. But apparently their employee thought differently. Beware
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25 Mar, 2023 by Mike flynn
08 Jul, 2022 by Christopher craddock
I had a very complicated case with cps and a crazy ex. Although the system may have failed, Jennifer was very kind and polite and helped through the whole ordeal. She was always fast to answer any questions. She was court appointed and not even a family law attorney. With that she was still the best attorney I’ve dealt with. I would recommend these guys to anyone.
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18 Apr, 2022 by Steve winston (ice)
Friendly atmosphere. Willing to help out with any concerns and questions with our family will
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05 Jul, 2024 by Ian mclean
Maya Shulman and her staff were absolutely wonderful in helping us achieve our dream of many decades. At last I was able to legally adopt my step daughter through a voluntary adult adoption petition. My wife and I are so glad that we employed Maya and her team. They iterated with us to get all the details right, so that when we finally went to court the judge ruled immediately in our favor and the whole process was over in minutes. What a wonderful day. Thank you Maya.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Shlomo benlaib
Competent, empathetic, knowledgeable, strategic and passionate. A wonderful combination. Highly recommended. - SG
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05 Jul, 2024 by Lana bernard
Ms. Shulman was the perfect attorney for my case-cool, calm and collected. No nonsense attorney who did not waist time and money. I am extremely happy with outcome. Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart!
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06 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr Graham's performance on my case was shocking. He repeatedly demonstrated a dangerous lack of attention to detail generating error ridden discovery documents and a frustrating inability to comprehend simple financial transactions. Despite enormous fees, Mr. Graham achieved little to nothing on my behalf.
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10 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
He’s a nice guy but he does not have a productive bone in his body. His paralegal and him would charge for opening emails and not respond to opposing counsel. You would do much better setting out of correct without Andrew representing you. He will collect $19k in two months without making any progress on your case.
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14 Jan, 2020 by Kimberly
Andrew is very honest, he calls it as he sees it. He is straight forward very professional. He seeks out the facts and is very quick to point out the points of the case. He's a husband and a father and knows family values. He doesn't let his ego get in the way when dealing with attorneys he sticks to what's best for the family. Andrew is confident and professional and handles himself remarkably well.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Geoffrey waugh
didn't know how to turn on adding machine i had to do it for him
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20 Dec, 2023 by Heidi desalvo
My Mother hired Chris Allred to represent her Trust. Mr. Allred did everything in his power to decieve Me. He lied to benefit his client. If you love your family DO NOT HIRE THIS MAN! He made lossing my Mother horrific. She trusted him and he failed horribly. He caused a Nightmare for my family that we are still living.
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24 Apr, 2022 by Kim gonzalez
22 Dec, 2023 by Morgan zimmer
Passive aggressive and doesn't serve people properly , doesn't follow law rule handbook, and is just a rude person
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21 Sep, 2022 by Valene veriato
13 May, 2022 by D
Beth is great. She is experienced, is very ethical and always did a great job representing me.
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07 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Michelle during one of the most vulnerable and traumatic times of mine and my children’s lives. She made big promises, didn’t deliver, and drug things out for billable hours, while she knew my kids were going through hell when with their dad. I was never in the courtroom with her, always made to wait outside of it. I remember one court date, where I became very frustrated as the court was once AGAIN postponed, and she turned around, away from me, and said to her associate, “She’s so I unappreciative”, referring to me. Very unprofessional at times. I finally had to fire her and retained another lawyer who had my children’s best interest at heart and got results and resolution, and always had me in the courtroom with him. If you can, try to work things out in your marriage. If you can’t, try to keep it out of the courts, and work out an agreement that’s good for the kids.
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10 May, 2021 by Ryan
Being a business owner, I typically only leave reviews for one of two reasons; Either what I experienced was above average, exceeded expectations, & the business deserves the shout out. Secondary, as a forewarning to others the business was such a letdown & did so horribly, avoid wasting your money. Unfortunately, my experience with Michelle & her firm was the latter.
Custody is never easy and conflict was high with my case as I was barely able to see my kids for almost 2 months. I reached out to Penna Coker Law & spoke with Michelle, once & only once with an initial free consultation. After listening to my case, she provided pieces of an aggressive game plan & some guidance that gave me hope. I retained Michelle's firm & she assured me along with her team, she would be there to continue providing legal guidance. She couldn't have been more wrong.
I spent the next 3 weeks with unanswered questions, confused, afraid, & completely left in the dark without a single word from Michelle until I terminated her firm. Things started off rocky with over 20 misspellings on the initial filing, including several of my son's name which would be correct on one line, incorrect on another, correct, then incorrect. Other misspellings included commonly used words or incorrect grammar. If you're going to charge $350/hr for a paralegal's work, at least have them run spell-check. Even Windows 98 had spell check... After that, they filed a document I never saw until after they filed with court & misspelled CALLIFORNIA. The state they're practicing law in. I emailed my attorney directly 6 times & called 6 times requesting to speak with Michelle over a 3 week period. I always got the same excuses of why she wasn't available & after taking my money, Michelle didn't see my case fit enough to take even one more second of her time on me.
Michelle was so uninvolved & out of the loop, in one of her final emails to me she made several references to my "child". I have two children Michelle. After being fired, Michelle was so kind as to take the liberty of filling in my new attorney, then bill me for her time. Neither my new attorney nor I requested Michelle to inform my new counsel how to do their job. $4,500 initial retainer, then Michelle informed me "there was so much work done on my case" & then I got another $3k bill a month later. I just hit the same total amount with my current attorney after 7 weeks, who also got me custody orders & overnight alternate weekends with my kids after 11 days.
Michelle advised me to file an aggressive restraining order, then admitted to me in an email (after termination) that evidence wasn't concrete enough. Had I pursued what Michelle advised with fantastic odds of losing, I was potentially liable to pay the opposing side's legal fees if I hadn't decided to drop the case.
If you're looking for help with your family law case, I would recommend any firm but this one.
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19 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Michelle Penna and her staff all worked very hard to help resolve my issues. When looking for an attorney, you want to find one that will be fair and is capable of providing you with accurate information. Michelle and her staff will go above and beyond to help you find a fair resolution. If you want an attorney that has no heart and will just crush the other party then don't go to her. If you want someone that will help you through a tough situation and do everything possible to provide a very fair result, then Michelle Penna is who you want to hire. As angry as we can be with our former partners, at one point we loved them. It can be difficult to remember that, especially in the heat of battle. For me, the most important thing was getting though my custody situation with a fair outcome. Michelle made that possible for me! Now me and my ex both feel good about the situation and are able to communicate well again and work together on matters regarding our daughter. Everyone's situation is different, and it wasn't an easy road getting to this point. It took us over a year to get to where we are today. On the other hand, I have recommended people to Michelle that were able to resolve their issues in a matter of weeks. I would recommend Michelle and her staff to absolutely anyone I know. Thank you very much Michelle, for everything you did for us!
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19 Jun, 2024 by Skylar rowell
I have used Mr. Peterson as my attorney for child custody and child support for about the last 7 years. He has represented me each time I have found myself back in court. Over the years he has always been very pleasant to deal with. He does not only treat you with respect, but he treats you like a friend. He won’t steer you wrong, he won’t give you false hope, he will be very straight forward and tell you what to expect. He will always be realistic with you and explain what the laws allow and don’t allow, even if it’s something you won’t agree with. Even with his own personal life, he still has always reached out and informed me of what’s going on.
It is never fun finding yourself going to court, regardless of the situation. Mr. Peterson has always taken the stress off my shoulders. In my honest opinion, he is worth every penny spent.
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14 Jun, 2022 by Jose cano
I am happy and grateful Jeffrey Peterson represented me in my divorce case. He is very knowledgeable, fair and honest man in my book.
He was very respectful with my concerns and my ex wife’s petition’s as well. He will treat you right, plus the ladies in the office are the best! I will definitely recommend Mr. Peterson Law Firm.
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25 Jan, 2022 by Lisbette torres
As we were speaking and I was explaining my situation to him he became so rude and over defenssive about Men. I literally had to hang up because he made me cry. No women should be treated this way because of Men like him who think they got more power than us women can offend us.
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03 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Nicole is professional and smart and I am able to sleep at night knowing she's on my side fighting for me. Having to retain an attorney for family matters involving children is never enjoyable but if you need someone who will truly listen and guide you correctly it's Nicole. She saved my future with my two kids and continues to make sure I have the best legal representation out there. I firmly believe she is one of the top lawyers out there. If you need one of the best give the firm a call and ask for Nicole. Ill continue to refer my family and friends her way.
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19 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Nicole not too long ago to represent me in a scary divorce & custody battle. She was very knowledgeable & experienced. She was very honest with me. She let me know what was worth fighting for & what was a waste of time & money. I felt like she held my hand the entire time. Everything came out great...better than I hoped. My child is happy & healthy. I just found out there was a website for reviews & wanted to thank her publicly for her patience.
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08 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Nicole was pawned off on me, for lack of better words, I went in thinking I was hiring Ms Whyte, and ended up with Miss Schmidt. She was rude through most of the process, and really did not listen, it was much easier for her to handle things in a cookie cutter fashion than to think outside the box. My biggest mistake was not getting a new attorney after our first day in court when she negotiated, I had very little involvement wirh that and was told it was only a preliminary and that we could get it changed later. Come to find out that is actually a very difficult feat. She prefers only contact through email. Once your case is finished, she mmakes it clear that she is no longer your attorney, you can rehire her for $300 an hour to ask her about your specifics about what was agreed upon in your negotiation. There's no information given on preparation for the future and in what instances you are entitled to make negotiations. Now I am paying an even steeper price by financial loss through her settling instead of fighting the fight and by hiring a new attorney to review and inform me of all that was agreed upon.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Jonathan alcerro
I went in and out of the courts all by myself with no luck for 2 years. Served her several times and even though the mother never showed up, things didn’t change. They FINALLY helped me get custody but by the time I got it, it was too late. Mother took my daughter who knows where. Detectives are still looking for them. It’s been over 14 years since I have seen her. The family court system is broken, you really DO need someone by your side with experience navigating it. I only wish I knew about them and called earlier. Maybe I could have gotten custody before she disappeared. And they did it all for free.
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06 Jul, 2024 by Daisy moreno
People is very nice, all of them
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06 Jun, 2024 by Tv
As if it wasn't hard already being a victim of domestic violence, there Levitt & Quinn is to make it an even more grueling process. I applied for help over a month prior to my final court hearing. After jumping through many hoops: 1) traveling to and applying directly at the office 2) submitting additional paperwork that took much effort to collect detail behind 3) several delays in correspondence from L&Q and 4) needing to spend money on requested documentation, I wasn't able to even land a consultation. They were misleading with hope throughout the process. They could've told me "we are unable to help at this time," which would've sufficed instead of wasting the time and energy of someone who is already suffering.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Diego pineda
Really pathetic place in my opinion, total waste of time, came here for some general information, they didn’t help because I made too much money? Go figure, didn’t at least try to see why I was there or at least explain that I would have to pay if they help. Don’t even try and look somewhere else they would only help if you’re unemployed I guess not wonder Marin of full of homelessness
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15 May, 2024 by Padme tatum
They turn away landlords. Only help tenants. Many landlords are very low income themselves. Doesn’t seem right.
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08 May, 2024 by Tatiania margules
I love Virginia so much and her tattoos. Everyone that’s hating she won my case case closed
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22 May, 2024 by Ash
I was referred to Andrew by Legal Shield. The initial call was great, and I sent him the file on my case. After review, we spoke again, and instead of taking the case on contingency, Andrew wanted to do a retainer with hourly plus contingency, which I agreed to, and even insisted on increasing the contingency percentage. I told him I could fund the retainer and start the case in about three weeks. At this point, his demeanor changed significantly, and it got awkward. He then told me to call him back when I was ready to start and that he wouldn't sent the agreement to be reviewed until then. Odd, but I agreed.
I called him back sooner than originally forecast, 20 days later, ready to start the case and fund the retainer, but it went to voice mail. Over the next few days I left several voicemails and texts until I finally got a text reply that he wasn't interested in working with me. I said I was sorry to hear that, and asked why but did not receive a reply. I sent a follow-up asking for the reason, but still no reply. Very unprofessional; should have believed the other reviews.
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24 May, 2018 by Patrick
From our first conversation, I knew right away Andy was going to have a positive impact on my case. He exceeded my expectations and I had little to worry about throughout the entire time leading up to and on my court date. He was professional, knowledgeable and assertive with every aspect of my family law matter. He was always available to answer any question I had and made me feel more at ease when I worried or was in doubt. I would recommend Andy to any parent that is looking to spend more time with their child and wants a fair amount of support to be ordered. Thank you Andy for all your efforts and for a successful outcome!
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17 Nov, 2017 by Beau
I hired Mr. Rosenfeld for a child support case in California. I live in Texas. Mr. Rosenfeld charged a fair price and communicated amazingly. I would recommend Mr. Rosenfeld to anybody. One of the best experiences I have ever had with an Attorney. Thank you for all of your help!
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11 Dec, 2022 by Nancy
Catherine helped me thru a nasty divorce. My former husband is also an attorney. Catherine held my hand and fought for my rights and I will always be grateful.
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16 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I contacted Catherine through Avvo with a question and with the intent of hiring her, but I never heard back from her. She either did not receive my message or has too many customers and does not need another one.
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08 Jun, 2012 by Jennifer
Catherine is the only lawyer (out of close to 20) that would actually speak to me on the phone and answer my questions even before I made an appointment with her. She is very knowledgeable regarding the law and has many superior suggestions on how to handle things. She explains things so I can understand them and proves to look out for the best interest of my family. My case will be handled in a different state so I could not hire Catherine full time. She knew this after the first consultation but still speaks with me and answers all questions I have. She has worked with me on payments as well. She truly is someone who cares and is compassionate. She's not out for your money but out to help people. Thank you, Catherine. You have been such a blessing to my family.
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14 Feb, 2024 by Ravyn
BEWARE!! HARASSING, HORRIBLE AND MONEY HUNGRY ATTORNEY FOR SERVICES HE DID NOT DO!!
I continue to be harassed by the law office for a bill they did not render services for! Mr. Young was already paid and received payment from the respondent almost a year ago. For which he stats to me you n front of 2 witnesses that I did not owe him any more money. In his exact words "we are square. You owe me nothing." My witnesses wrote out affidavits and submitted them. I had to FIRE this attorney due to him making back door negotiations with Opposing Counsel withOUT my knowledge or consent. He did nothing for me! And still got paid over $16,000 and continues to bill me for services not rendered! See his yelp reviews! He's a 2.8 on Yelp!
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14 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I would give Mr. Young 0 stars if that were an option.
Mr. Young was my second attorney on my divorce case because I was seeking a strong custody lawyer and he was suggested to me as a custody attorney. I have nothing positive to say and deeply regret using him. He charged a lot of money for absolutely no benefit, I literally would have gotten the same result if I had represented myself. I say that confidently as I am now three years post divorce and have represented myself at numerous hearings over the years.
Ladies dealing with domestic abuse situations in particular do not use this attorney. My ex was abusive. I asked for some basic things in my custody agreement such as doing custody exchanges at a public place. Mr. Young scoffed and asked if that was really necessary stating I would find it to be an inconvenience down the road. Three years later, my ex is still abusive and I am so grateful I insisted on adding this language despite his "advice" not to.
I was the primary supporter financially of our family and asked Mr. Young to fight on my behalf to reduce my alimony obligation based on the fact that our marriage did not contribute to my ex's inability to support himself. He said there was nothing he could do about alimony. Three years later, I've had three different attorneys tell me I should have fought the alimony originally and that it's harder to change later. I am currently going back to court to get it reduced.
He made no effort on the custody agreement. He simply wrote into the agreement the items I provided to him. I am regularly finding errors which has caused a lot of difficulty in coordinating visitation exchanges. For the amount of money I paid him, and because he's marketed himself as a custody attorney, I would have expected the custody agreement to be air tight.
Mr. Young was my second lawyer so my paperwork had already been filed, however, his office insisted on refiling. I found numerous errors they needed to correct. I was charged a lot for them to do something i had never asked and for them to do it incorrectly.
Every step of the way, the work Mr. Young and his office provided was incorrect, unhelpful, and cost a ridiculous amount. I can not strongly enough urge people, especially women, to not use Mr. Young's services.
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07 Jun, 2018 by Therese
I have found Mr. Young to be experienced and highly skilled as well as a caring and concerned advocate. My experience with Mr. Young and his staff has been exceptional and I could not be more pleased. I would recommend Mr. Young without hesitation.
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28 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Hired to help with my nasty divorce. I’m a professional business woman and my ex was attempting to steal our assets and my income by making false claims of abuse to simply increase his chances of getting large support orders. Mr. Rinaldelli and his office staff were very helpful in guiding me through the frustrations of the whole divorce process. He really made me feel like her cared about me and my situation and helping get me to a better new life beyond my failed marriage. Was very aggressive in court and very sharp and saw all the angles my ex and his lawyer were trying to employ. After a tough battle he was able to convince the court of my ex’s lies and I didn’t have to pay any support whatsoever. And he accomplished all of this in less than six months even though my ex was trying to drag the case on to force me to pay his lawyers fees and pressure me to settle. In the end I had to pay no support, no attorney fees, and was granted a restraining order against my ex. Mr. Rinaldelli and his office really helped me to move past my divorce and I’m very thankful. He was also very reasonable in his payment arrangements, discounts, and overall fees. I believe my ex paid his lawyer almost twice what I paid Mr. Rinaldelli and he lost almost everything he wanted. Thank you Daniel.
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09 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Hire Mr. Rinaldelli for a child custody modification. All paperwork was given to him within 2 days of retaining him, it took him over 7 months to file my paperwork. I had called, emailed, left message after message only to be ignored for months. Once I finally did speak to him he just gave excuse after excuse. He was highly recommended by a past client that is why I didn't just fire him. He agreed to two continuous' without even consulting me. Once we finally did go to court SIX months after the filing date due to continuous after continuous he was great. Very professional and does know the law very well. But it should not take over a year for a simple modification. An order after hearing was never filed by him although I did request one several times. If he only would be respectful of his clients time and money outside of the court room he would be great.
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01 Jun, 2021 by Sarah
I was really frustrated after reading some of these reviews. Leigh has been extremely supportive and encouraging during this difficult process. She is a matter of fact, tell it like it is kind of person but isn't that the kind of person you want standing up for you in court? Leigh's prices are so reasonable, I was so afraid I wouldn't be able to afford a lawyer and I prayed for a miracle. Leigh has been doing this for a long time and I am grateful for her knowledge, guidance and support. I am confident that walking into this courtroom with her by my side is the best choice I could have made.
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27 Apr, 2018 by Justin
Leigh was not reliable nor did she provide the effort you would expect when dealing with legal issues. I was very open and upfront with her regarding my case and needs as a client, but Leigh couldn't provide the same respect back. After my consultation, which I thought was comforting, I spent money immediately to retain her due to the complication of my case. Leigh showed up to every court hearing either as court checked in or had already started, which left no time to consult with her going into a hearing about expectations, needs, and facts required for judge. During the hearing, due to lack of consultation, I consistently had to try to provide input or request things on an instant before hearing would be over. After hearings is when Leigh would communicate with us, in which she charged for. After I received my first invoice, not only did she charge the incorrect rate, but she would charge for simple communication (reading and responding to my emails). Not only was her hours spent on tasks appearing to be inflated, Leigh also didn't provide a receipt for a cash transaction, then wouldn't credit the money provided to her until I gave my bank statement reflecting my atm withdrawl. She blamed "personal" reason as means to not crediting me, but I had to advise her multiple times she didn't credit me. Now comes the unethical aspect, which occurred every hearing. I'm not sure if race played a role in her character judgment, but Leigh would tell my wife and I we couldn't afford her nor the effort to fight for my rights as a father. This was the single most disrespectful and inappropriate thing I've ever been told, from someone I looked to for counsel. There was no indication of my ability to pay, when I keep my terms to our contract regarding payment. Then when asked to actually make effort to progress the case, Leigh consistently told me she couldn't do anything. Therefore it left me with no other choice but to move on from her services. BE CAUTIOUS IN RETAINING THIS ATTORNEY, she will force you to do all the footwork, legal processes, and more while she collects your money. Also, if you can't afford her suggestions, don't expect her to fight for you in your case. I believe Leigh thought she had a money case because of the high conflict I'm involved in, but she didn't expect me to be as efficient as I am in my case. Just as stated from the anonymous reviewer, they were 100% correct about Leigh. Dont believe me, theres other sites that have reviews on her as well dating back to 2009 of her poor and unethical work, in a simple Google search, which I do regret not doing before retaining her. I would highly suggest you review your invoices and contract before you make a legal decision.
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02 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
She's very good on billing you for hours that she probably never did considering on how badly she arranged my file. I deeply regret that I had to deal with her. Please do a favor to yourself and AVOID this attorney. Good luck!
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28 Jul, 2019 by Clay singleton
Ben Ramsey is the consummate professional. I had a very complex case and he sorted the many interwoven issues and was able to focus our time, and the opposing counsel's time, on only the most important items. He has a great understanding of the law, but relates to clients very well.
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14 Apr, 2019 by Anthony
Very unprofessional. Does a decent job in Susanville only because there is such low standards in Susanville. Doesn’t do much more then take your money.
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14 Dec, 2018 by Rita antram
Mr. Ramsey was great to work with, he spent all the time necessary to put my mind at ease and answer all my questions.
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06 May, 2024 by My business
Awful!!!
This lady is very nice person. I would NOT recommend her as a lawyer at all. I hired her, she dug up what she called a "companion" case and that case became her focus, me and mine becoming collateral damage. She had me do some of her work, she is very defensive, she runs around like a chicken with her head cut off talking about she has ADD, she gave me no guidance at all. None. I expected her to sit me down and let me know what to expect that's why I hired her. I could have lost all by myself. After she lost my case, in her pursuit of the "companion" case, rendering me unable to ever see my granddaughter. She asked me if I wanted her to continue on the "companion" case. I told her I had no more money. She said 'you do, actually, said she still had the two last checks for MY case. One was a $2750 check and the other was at $275 check. After she lost my case I expected her to return those checks. She did not. She cashed them. She lost my case with devastating consequences and then had the audacity to cash the two last checks totaling $3,025. Money grubber. Not on her game. I do not recommend.
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24 Feb, 2024 by Sarah steele
05 Dec, 2023 by Joyce adams
Good attorney. I feel she will make a fair and competent judge
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03 Jun, 2024 by Doug foster
This is a long overdue recommendation for Becker Nelson Center & James. Our LLC has been a client for several years and we've always received top quality counsel and service. We've worked with Crystal Center and she has done a variety of projects for us ranging from tenant leases to litigation. She does a super job balancing practical needs with getting what's best for our business. I highly recommend this practice for others!
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14 Feb, 2024 by A r
Crystal Center gave my case all the attention it needed and constantly kept me updated on how things were progressing along the way. As a client, you are certain that your needs, concerns and case will be handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Crystsl went above and beyond to help my case in anyway she possibly could. It was clear she cared deeply about me and my case. The firms office is welcoming and professional. I highly recommend Becker Nelson Center and James
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29 Sep, 2023 by Tracie whitney
I have called twice, left a message, and have not gotten a call back.
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22 Oct, 2023 by Brittani wagner
15 Sep, 2023 by David arebalos
I would like to express my utmost gratitude and appreciation to Attorney Susan Hemp and her paralegal Channing for their exceptional work in handling my court battle. After having worked with three other attorneys previously, I was feeling hopeless and financially burdened. However, Attorney Hemp and Channing stepped in and accomplished what seemed impossible to others, ultimately saving me thousands of dollars.
Their expertise, dedication, and attention to detail were truly remarkable. Throughout the entire process, they exhibited professionalism, responsiveness, and a genuine commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for me. Their comprehensive knowledge of the law and strategic approach were evident in every step they took.
Not only did Attorney Hemp and Channing tirelessly fight for my rights, but they also provided invaluable guidance and support during such a challenging time. They consistently kept me informed, promptly addressed my concerns, and patiently explained complicated legal concepts to ensure I understood the proceedings.
Thanks to their unwavering efforts, I can confidently say that I received the justice I deserved. Attorney Hemp and Channing's exceptional performance not only saved me significant financial strain but also brought me much-needed peace of mind.
I wholeheartedly recommend Attorney Susan Hemp and her paralegal Channing to anyone in need of legal representation. Their professionalism, expertise, and unwavering dedication make them true assets in the legal field. Thank you once again, Attorney Hemp and Channing, for going above and beyond to secure a favorable outcome for me.
-David A. Arebalos
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17 Jan, 2023 by Edward monk
26 Apr, 2024 by Kiyoko
Evidently, I'm not the only person who had an unsatisfactory experience with Bobby Luna as a Small Claims judge. He did not review any of my evidence, nor did he speak to my witness who was on standby on Zoom. In summary, be prepared to appeal his decision if you have him as a judge in Small Claims court.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Shawn mclaughlin
I have appreciated the offices of Bobby P Luna for four years and counting. Jennifer Holdener, Mackenzie, and reception have all been extremely patient with my needs and multiple cases that were far from normal in the eyes of us mere mortals. The bad reviews for Bobby and his office reflect a lack of understanding that the relationship between you, your lawyer and your case is a symbiotic dance where you provide the information and work together to create a case. There were times I was panicked and called and received no word back—and became upset—but these lawyers are constantly working for someone each day, so I would remember to be patient—that we have our day in court, not our day on the messaging system. I will continue to support Bobby P Luna and Jennifer with my recommendations and any new issues that may arise. I’ve been meaning to write this for a long time, and it took these one star reviews to get me to use my fingers and speak.
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15 Mar, 2024 by J rob
I definitely agree with everyone that rated him a one star. And he is trying to run for Superior Court Judge?! Thank God Sacramento saw through his bull. I went to this man several years back to get help with my divorce case. He told me he would definitely review my case and Get back with me, but I had a pretty clear cut case. He stated that he had to go to some type of attorney’s forum in Orange County and would review it when he returned. He told me to give him two weeks. Well, 3 1/2 weeks later, I kept calling with no response. Approximately 1.5 months later, I received a phone call from his office, not even him , stating that he would not be able to take my case due to it being too complex! Too complex?! Well, if he’s trying to run for a superior court judge that is as complex as it gets. Stay away from this person. I wouldn’t vote for him to run a boxcar race. Personally, I think he’s only an attorney based on the title and the prestige that it gives not based on anything that he earned or worked hard for and most certainly not his knowledge/expertise in the field. Look somewhere else for a competent attorney. I bet his premiums for his malpractice insurance are more than his net worth.
Update: See his reply below?! He said I never was a client. Exactly! Because after holding all of my documents several weeks and then making a cowardice move of having your staff call me and tell me that my case was too complex to handle- you’re right. I never was a client. Now, I’m so glad that you did me that favor. It was years ago and you may have gotten better since you’re “practicing.” Oh and just because you teach somewhere means nothing. I can own a beauty salon and not know how to do hair or have a license to do so. And you have further buttressed my statements in my review just by saying that you don’t “normally” reply to reviews- shows a lack of maturity and an underlying soreness about your loss. Nahhhh, Sacramento made an excellent decision.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Adoption Lawyer Can Do for You
An adoption lawyer specializes in navigating the legal complexities of the adoption process, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved - the adoptive parents, birth parents, and the child - are protected. They assist families through the different types of adoption, such as domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, and private adoptions. Adoption lawyers ensure that the adoption process complies with state, federal, and international laws, and handle any legal issues that may arise during the process, such as terminating parental rights, conducting home studies, and finalizing the adoption.
If you're looking to adopt or if you're a birth parent considering placing your child for adoption, an adoption lawyer can guide you through the legal requirements and ensure the process goes smoothly.
When Should I Hire an Adoption Lawyer?
You should consider hiring an adoption lawyer in the following situations:
- Private or independent adoption: If you’re adopting a child directly from the birth parents without the involvement of an adoption agency, a lawyer is essential to draft and review all legal documents, including consent forms and parental rights termination agreements.
- Foster care adoption: If you’re adopting a child from foster care, a lawyer can help navigate the legal process, ensure the child’s eligibility for adoption, and represent you in court to finalize the adoption.
- Stepparent or relative adoption: If you’re adopting a stepchild or a relative, a lawyer can assist in terminating the parental rights of the biological parent and ensure the adoption is completed legally and efficiently.
- International adoption: International adoptions are complex, involving multiple layers of laws from the U.S. and the child’s birth country. A lawyer can help navigate immigration requirements and ensure compliance with international treaties like the Hague Convention.
- Contested adoptions: If a birth parent changes their mind about the adoption or there is a dispute over parental rights, a lawyer can represent you in court and ensure that the adoption proceeds legally.
- Adoption for same-sex couples: If you're a same-sex couple looking to adopt, a lawyer can help ensure that your adoption complies with state laws and that both parents have equal legal rights to the child.
- Birth parent representation: If you’re a birth parent considering adoption, a lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, help you understand the legal implications of terminating parental rights, and ensure that your decision is legally sound.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help avoid legal complications and ensure that the adoption is legally finalized as smoothly as possible.
What Does an Adoption Lawyer Do?
An adoption lawyer provides a variety of legal services, ensuring that the adoption process is completed in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing legal paperwork: Adoption lawyers handle all the necessary paperwork, including petitions to terminate parental rights, consent forms, and final adoption decrees. They ensure that the adoption is in line with state, federal, and international laws.
- Conducting home studies: Some adoptions require a home study to evaluate the prospective adoptive family. While a social worker usually conducts the study, a lawyer can ensure that the process complies with legal requirements and that the report is submitted correctly.
- Terminating parental rights: Lawyers assist in terminating the legal rights of the biological parents, either voluntarily through signed consent or involuntarily through court proceedings if necessary.
- Representing clients in court: Adoption lawyers represent adoptive parents, birth parents, or other parties in court hearings to finalize the adoption or resolve disputes.
- Navigating international adoption laws: For international adoptions, a lawyer helps ensure that all legal requirements, both in the U.S. and the child’s home country, are met, including securing the child’s visa and citizenship.
- Providing legal advice: Adoption lawyers guide clients through each step of the adoption process, advising them on their rights and obligations, as well as any potential legal issues that may arise.
- Drafting post-adoption agreements: In some cases, especially open adoptions, a lawyer can help draft post-adoption agreements that specify the level of contact between the adoptive and birth parents.
How Are Adoption Lawyers Paid?
Adoption lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the adoption and the time involved. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many adoption lawyers charge a flat fee for handling the entire adoption process. This is common for straightforward adoptions, such as stepparent or foster care adoptions, where the legal work is relatively predictable.
- Hourly rate: For more complex adoptions, such as contested or international adoptions, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: In cases where the adoption process may take longer or involve more legal work (e.g., termination of parental rights or court disputes), a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, so you understand the total cost of the adoption and any additional expenses that may arise during the process.
How Much Does an Adoption Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an adoption lawyer depends on the type of adoption and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:
- Stepparent or relative adoption: Legal fees for these types of adoptions typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on whether the adoption is contested or requires a court hearing.
- Domestic private adoption: The legal fees for a private adoption usually range from $5,000 to $10,000, including drafting documents, terminating parental rights, and finalizing the adoption in court.
- International adoption: International adoptions are generally more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the adoption and the child’s country of origin.
- Contested adoption: If the adoption is contested and involves court disputes, legal fees may range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the length and complexity of the court proceedings.
In addition to lawyer fees, adoptive parents should also be aware of additional costs such as court filing fees, home study fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
Top Questions to Ask an Adoption Lawyer
Before hiring an adoption lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with adoptions?
Ensure the lawyer has experience with the specific type of adoption you’re pursuing, whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, or stepparent adoption. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or hourly rate and ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in your adoption. -
What are the legal requirements for my adoption?
Ask the lawyer to explain the legal steps involved in your adoption and any specific requirements that may apply to your case, such as home studies or parental consent. -
How long will the adoption process take?
Adoption timelines can vary depending on the type of adoption, so ask the lawyer for an estimate of how long the process will take, including any potential delays. -
What are the common challenges in adoption cases?
Ask about any potential legal challenges that could arise during the adoption process and how the lawyer plans to address them. -
Will I need to go to court?
Depending on the adoption, you may need to attend court hearings. Ask the lawyer whether your presence will be required and what to expect during these hearings. -
Can you help with post-adoption issues?
Ask the lawyer if they can assist with any post-adoption issues, such as obtaining the child’s birth certificate, finalizing the child’s U.S. citizenship (for international adoptions), or drafting post-adoption contact agreements.
How to Check the Credibility of an Adoption Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable adoption lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions on their record.
- Look for adoption experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in adoption law and have experience handling cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on adoption cases.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for lawyers who are members of adoption-focused organizations like the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys (AAAA), which can indicate their expertise in this field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with an adoption lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Information about the child and birth parents: Provide any available information about the child you’re adopting (e.g., age, country of origin, current living situation) and the birth parents, if applicable.
- Adoption preferences: Be clear about the type of adoption you’re pursuing - whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, or private - and discuss any preferences you have regarding the child’s age, background, or special needs.
- Legal documents (if applicable): If you’ve already begun the adoption process or have signed any agreements, bring copies of all relevant legal documents, such as consent forms or agency agreements.
- Questions about the adoption process: Prepare a list of questions about the legal steps involved in your adoption, potential timelines, and any concerns you may have about the process.
- Financial considerations: Be ready to discuss your budget for legal fees and any additional costs, such as home studies, court fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for your adoption journey.
