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James Roberts Potter, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Clarksville, TN with 7 reviews
Average
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39,22
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
7 Reviews
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08 Aug, 2022 by Mariana
Mr. Potter is the best divorce lawyer in Clarksville. He made what I thought was going to be a long and emotional divorce short and sweet. I cannot thank Mr. Potter enough for all that he has done for me. Mr. Potter is the best lawyer to have on your side.
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10 Jan, 2021 by Kevin
This man is amazing, he fought hard for me to have time with my daughter after her mother dragged it out for a year and caused so much unnecessary drama. He kept me cool and collective and went to bat for me through it all. Trust in his knowledge and his time as lawyer he will truly fight for what is right for you and your family!
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14 Sep, 2020 by Jasmine
This man is a true angel, absolutely amazing. When it came to my stepdaughter he got everything my husband was entitled to and went to bat for him. He is very attentive and helpful through every step of the way! His staff is also amazing so friendly and always there to help!
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Sharon Tipton Massey, experienced Adoption, Criminal Defense attorney in Clarksville, TN with 2 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,06
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
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12 Oct, 2016 by Quatonya
Ms. Massey is an extremely insightful, strategic, ground paving attorney. Complexity is without challenge for Ms. Massey as she carefully approaches each case with a subject matter expertise that's noteworthy. Her demeanor and personality enable her to set tremedious strides inside of the courtroom. She offers a helping hand, prideful professionalism, that's appreciated by myself as well as, every client to whom she represents. It's with great pride to have been represented by a premier attorney that has a keen expertise that's consistent. Ms. Massey provides an honest assessment which is invaluable.
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14 Mar, 2014 by Mechelle
Awesome Attorney. We retain her for all our family needs, she s helped us with adoptions and more. She s a very personable person. I can t say enough good things about her. She will tell you like it is and everything s she has told us to this date had come true in all our cases-if she doesn t think you will win a case, she tells you instead of telling you lies and taking money just to get your business as some attorneys do. If you want the best attorney in the area, call Sharon Massey! I recommend her to all my friends and family!!!!
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Amy Catherine Bates, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Clarksville, TN with 217 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,34
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4.3/5
Avvo
4.6
10 Reviews
Google Maps
4.3
207 Reviews
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13 Feb, 2025 by Nwa inc
Awesome team & staff.
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19 Nov, 2024 by Kylee white
I am not a client, but a defendant in a case with T.J. Samson Community Hospital which this firm represents. This case is about collections which I talked to Crystal in billing about today. I’d like to first say, I am not upset my hospital bills were turned over to collections, and have no problem paying for them. I started out nice and eager to figure this all out and start paying my bills, however from the second the call started she was rude and carried a condescending tone. I have never dealt with a matter like this before, therefor I didn’t know what was expected of me, but I do know what’s expected of her considering she works in public service. Much like a child, she was quick to cut me off, talked to me like I was an imbecile, and raised her voice when I called her out for the way she was speaking to me. I am usually not one to complain but the matter was as simple as needing to know what payment to make and where and she could not get through a 5 minute conversation without being bitter and cold, even refusing my phone call when I had tried to reach her again to figure out what payment I agreed to. Although I cannot speak to the attorneys capabilities or manners, I’ve read the other reviews and it seems as though this place lacks severe communication skills and common decency.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Katerin garrido
10/10 recommend Mr. Mathis. He answered all our questions regardless how small they were and was super quick in answering back emails. I trusted him with my immigration process and have no regrets! We even moved across the country while our case was still pending, and Mr. Mathis was still able to represent us. He transitioned smoothly and did not make the distance affect his way of working for us in the case. We cannot thank him enough for the job he did!
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Ryan Kyle McFarland, experienced Adoption, Criminal Defense attorney in Clarksville, TN with 10 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
23,18
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3.8/5
Avvo
3.8
10 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2022 by Robert
The front desk and staff are the worst. Ryan will continue to avoid you. It's sad that this once good law firm is now just another place that feeds off the scraps of great law firms. Soldiers and spouses beware. Get anyone but this law firm to handle your case
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03 Jan, 2022 by Kyle
They screen calls, the paralegal and front desk clerk are by far the most unprofessional two people I have met. An I used Ryan McFarland personally 2 years ago as my attorney. Unless you're an attorney yourself they try to belittle and speak down to you. After over 2 months of emails and sending paperwork that needs to be signed per a final divorce degree they will string you along and make no attempts to remedy the situation. If you're a woman and love having another woman treat you like a child this is the best place for you to go. If not I wouldn't bother looking one second more into this company for any type of fast legal process.
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05 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I fully entrusted Ryan McFarland. He stated to me when I first retained him, “I will see you through this to the end”. That provided me with so much hope and encouragement then. In my experience with this attorney and his office, is more often than not there are a LOT of communication break downs. Being left in the dark not knowing and uncertain of things. I would ask questions and sometimes they would go unanswered. The last communication breakdown resulted in, Ryan McFarland, resigning from my case. This happened without warning, I was lead to believe I was going in for an appointment to discuss the process and start the preparations for the divorce trial with children and domestic abuse involved. To my surprise, I get there, to be turned away. Now, during the holidays having to pay a whole new retainer fee for a new attorney to pick up where someone else left off. I personally, only want someone to represent me that stands true to their word and actually follows through. From my experience, if you’re looking to hire someone that is dedicated, has great communication skills, also has assistants and paralegals that have excellent communication skills and that will actually see you through the end of your case. Ryan McFarland isn’t the attorney to hire.
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Jennifer Renee Steiert, experienced Adoption, Juvenile Law attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Jill Suzette Ezell, experienced Adoption, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Timothy J. Gudmundson, experienced Adoption, Appeals attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Nicole Latrice Martin, experienced Adoption, Family Law attorney in Clarksville, TN with 0 reviews
Below Average
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0,00
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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