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23 Feb, 2023 by Chris
I was in a not-at-fault auto accident in Colorado Springs, where I was rear-ended, and my car was totaled. After speaking with Mr. Clawson, I retained him as my attorney. Mr. Clawson and his team were courteous and professional and provided exceptional representation. I received a settlement more significant than I could have imagined. I highly recommend the Clawson Team for any bodily injury accident claim! The free initial consultation was also helpful! Thank you.
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31 Jan, 2023 by Reese
I highly recommend Clawson & Clawson! Mr. Clawson and the whole team were so helpful, understanding, and knew exactly how to get things done as related to my automobile accident. My medical bills added up quickly, and I never thought they would all be covered, let alone get money for me. I was amazed at the outcome. I received the best medical treatment, and my expenses were covered. I received more than I ever hoped to cover future needs. Thank you, Mr. Clawson!
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20 Jun, 2021 by Cheri
He explains everything, very detail oriented and understands the stress that I was going through. I am so pleased with my results. I would hire him again in a heartbeat. Thank you both Natalie and Matthew for getting me through one of the toughest times in my life. You are amazing!
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08 Apr, 2021 by Thomas
The Travis Law Group is excellent. Mr. Travis and Donna handled my divorce case with integrity, competently, and presented the truth. The court and judge agreed with our position and my case was settled to my satisfaction. The Travis Law Group is to be commended for their due diligence and expertise. I have faith in our legal system based on their superior work and expertise.
Travis Law has my deepest respect and appreciation for a job well done.
Thank you.
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19 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Richard Travis and his staff did a great job, and I would recommend them! He explained all the steps and options and was very approachable, as was his staff.
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26 Feb, 2020 by Kelly
Mr. Travis and his paralegal Dauna were wonderful in representing me in my divorce and child custody case. They were both very knowledgeable about laws, and detail oriented in preparing my case. I was extremely impressed with their explanations of all of my questions. Mr. Travis spent time talking with me about a situation that could have potentially gone negative on me with my kids, and helped me form a positive plan to present in my hearing. The outcome for me and my children could not have gone better. Their firm was also cost cautious. I will definitely hire Travis Law if I ever need legal representation in the future.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Justin ross
I worked with Mike Kuhn, Paul Lewis, and Cameron Caldwell on a situation for a year. It was an incredibly stressful situation, but because of their partnership through the situation, I felt at peace. Mike, Paul, and Cameron were absolutely incredible every step of the way. Their experience and expertise were immediately evident. They are extremely responsive and give great care to their clients. I highly recommend them!
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10 Oct, 2024 by Thomas kittelsen
I have had a very good experience with this firm. Very professional. Very competent.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Lisa zimmermann
Nick one of the attorneys is in protection mode of his receptionist who was absolutely unprofessional ! Any attorney who believes his receptionist over a potential client is not a good attorney. Obviously this office wears Versace suits with Walmart shoes.
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24 Nov, 2024 by Barbi cannabis
Dailey & Pratt helped me with an appeal against a nuisance neighbor. Their honest insight & analysis helped me make the right decisions. I ultimately won my case and the neighbor minds his own business now.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Sean parker
09 Dec, 2023 by Todd casey
You cannot go wrong hiring Lisa. She’s Incredibly responsive and efficient (Carrie too!). She truly understands how devastating divorce can be and I always felt like she was looking out for my best interest. She was always professional (even in challenging situations) and made sure all my bases were covered. Hire her. You won’t regret it.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Linda arnold
We are long-time clients of Mr. Williams. He drafted wills and powers of attorney for me and my husband years ago, and it was time for an update. His staff scheduled us in right away. Mr. Williams reviewed the deed to our house to make sure it was titled right so we wouldn't have problems in the future. He talked to us about our assets, which had grown over the years, and ensured that we properly named beneficiaries on investment accounts. He explained the difference between a will and trusts, and we decided to keep it to wills. Mr. Williams helped guide us about where our property will go and who will handle our things when we pass away. He drafted our documents and took the time to hand-deliver drafts to our house, so we had plenty of time to review them before we signed them. At the signing, Mr Williams took us through all of the documents and explained them thoroughly. His paralegal made copies and put the originals and copies in a new portfolio, so our documents are together in one place. We are very pleased with the work he did and how he explained everything. He was very knowledgeable, professional and a pleasure to work with. We highly recommend this law firm.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Stephen wyatt
Incompetent and rude. We requested Gordon to draw up a will and other documents. Upon our request, my wife asked to review documents for errors. Gordon stated he would email the documents to my wife, but he did not. Gordon made the simplest errors in even scheduling the meeting to sign the documents, which was a huge red flag. It gets worse. My wife sat down for approximately 30 seconds and found over a dozen errors in her documents and mine. Again, we were told we would get the documents prior to this meeting to review. This proved our point. While working with Gordon to fix the numerous errors he made, we kept finding more errors!!! For 350.00 we thought there was better quality. My wife stopped the meeting, and we refused to continue. While refusing, Godon became very rude and defensive of his own errors!!!!! Ridiculous!!!!! Complete waste of our time. Now, we have to find a competent attorney's office that can handle a simple last will and power of attorney paperwork. If I could give a negative rating, I would. These are facts, not opinions.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Veronica pira
22 Nov, 2024 by Christopher meadows
The legal firm provided excellent service, with both the receptionist and my attorney, Mikayla Shearer and her team, demonstrating exceptional professionalism and competence.
She is worth every penny I promise words cannot describe what an amazing person she is i mean just Google her she's the best I love her when I told her that it's time I was devastated dude she's saved my life im being able to see my son now , if you need a lawyer she's the one I promise after our first conversation I got off the phone and I knew I was gonna get my rights and i started shadow boxing I was so excited she'll take the time to get to understand the whole picture her passion is doing the right thing for parents. I really really am gonna miss you mikayla, there's alot of things that I would love to say about whole experience but how I talk is very unprofessional but guys this is the lawfirm and highly request you guys ask for her .
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15 Nov, 2024 by Michael hedquist
Burnham Law was amazing through a very difficult time for me. I want to personally thank Karla and Rebecca for being patient with me and even talking me off the ledge a few times:). They fought for what was fair for me and for my kids. They were on top of what needed be done a communicated and explained everything throughout the whole process.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Hailey pearl
Allison Sutton has been the absolute best lawyer I’ve had throughout my case! She was able to be upfront and honest with me every time about all the potential ways a situation could play out and always got the job done! I am seriously so impressed with her work ethic and professionalism! I will definitely go to her any/every time I need a lawyer for anything related to family law!
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01 Oct, 2019 by Stephen
When my daughter needed a divorce lawyer, I asked my attorney friends who the best divorce lawyer is in Colorado Springs. The answer came back – Yolanda Fennick. She fully lived up to the reputation. She fought hard for my daughter and was very skilled through every complicated step. She was a superb negotiator. It was also evident that other attorneys and judges have high respect for her. I strongly recommend her.
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12 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
I had been battling for my child support since 2005. Once I hired Ms. Fennick my child support payments started 6 months later. She had to fight with Child Support Enforcement and Social Security. She was so thorough she even found out that CSE made several mistakes with my Order. Not only did she fix the mistakes she updated my Order. If not for Ms. Fennick I would not be receiving my child support due to the mistakes she uncovered and fixed.Thank you.
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07 May, 2022 by Rebekah
Brittany was amazing helping with my adoption paperwork. She walked me thru the whole process, answered all my questions and completed my paperwork in a timely manner. She is knows the laws and is efficient in getting the paperwork done and filed with no errors. 10/10 recommend DocuPrep!
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15 Apr, 2019 by Mirei hiratama
I had a wonderful experience when it came to family law. Pierce Elliot Law is affordable and understanding when it comes to dealing with families. I recommend them any day.
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27 Dec, 2018 by Patrick j. peake
Most professional legal representation I've ever seen. Plus they're veterans and understand what veterans need. I highly recommend Pierce Elliott law.
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05 Oct, 2018 by Modern knight hobbies
Excellent, they do have yopur back and are always available
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15 Apr, 2019 by Mirei hiratama
I had a wonderful experience when it came to family law. Pierce Elliot Law is affordable and understanding when it comes to dealing with families. I recommend them any day.
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27 Dec, 2018 by Patrick j. peake
Most professional legal representation I've ever seen. Plus they're veterans and understand what veterans need. I highly recommend Pierce Elliott law.
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05 Oct, 2018 by Modern knight hobbies
Excellent, they do have yopur back and are always available
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09 Jan, 2024 by Warren clay
I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. West; whose service has proven to be exceptionally valuable, supportive, and distinguished.
I believe Mr. West stands out as a true exemplar of legal professionalism and dedicated service. He and his team's unwavering commitment to the betterment of clients, their issues, and the community has been both evident and impactful.
Through years of principled dedication, particularly in my extended family law issue, he became a beacon of rationality and disciplined thought which proved vital for my survival during the chaos of an extended custody battle.
What distinguishes Mr. West is his profound dedication to ensuring that I received not only expert legal guidance but also compassionate support during my contentious family law situation.
His principles and unwavering dedication have significantly contributed to resolving my conflict with integrity and sensitivity.
I firmly believe that when seeking counsel, particularly in family law cases where emotions often run high, Mr. West and his team should be at the forefront of consideration.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Deb mack
This attorney is so smart and really advocates for you. His staff is excellent. Listen to what he says.
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10 Nov, 2022 by Ian geis
I have no reservations in making the highest possible recommendation for Dan West Esq and his team. Dan is knowledgeable, fair, and honest. He is readily available when needed and always eager to help.
Mr. West is a fantastic lawyer and brings a sense of peace and calmness to situations that are very stressful and challenging. I am incredibly happy to have Mr. West help me through a difficult divorce.
Thank you Dan, Melanie, and Tatianna!
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15 Jan, 2025 by John rougeux
Stephen is exceptional. I was skeptical about hiring a personal injury lawyer and didn't know what to expect. But Stephen walked me through the process, provided clear guidance and advice, and delivered the expertise I was looking for. He achieved an outstanding result to my case. I'd recommend him to anyone who wants a reliable pro in pursuing a personal injury case.
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15 Jan, 2025 by David hackett
100% a top quality firm! Professional, knowledgeable, friendly, honest, and will go the extra mile to insure that you get the best possible outcome for your situation. Very satisfied with how he handled my case.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Sierra levy
Stephen Longo has been an incredible resource for legal advice and guidance. He took the time to understand every detail of my case, explained the process clearly, and provided thoughtful, expert recommendations. His guidance and support throughout this process gave me peace of mind.I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking skilled and compassionate legal counsel. Thank you again for your outstanding help—it has truly made a difference!
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26 Jan, 2025 by Malana cordova
A few years ago my husband used Clawson&Clawson when a guy ran a red light and t-boned him. We were very happy with the outcome. Fast forward to last October when I got rear-ended. We reached out to Michael again. I really appreciate how thorough they were with both cases. And once again, we are very happy with the outcome. If you are ever injured and need a very reputable attorney I recommend Clawson & Clawson. They will take care of you and get you the most possible for your injuries.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Pete aragon
Clawson & Clawson is a down to earth law firm, which I greatly appreciate. Their staff are very patient, thoughtful and helped guide me through my legal situation. They are the best law firm I have dealt with by far, since I have been involved in many other auto accidents in the past. Brenda and Wendy are great, they really care!
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16 Nov, 2024 by Lacey mclaughlin
Wonderful firm. Mike, Matt, and their staff are exceptionally patient and communicative. For such an unwanted and unexpected event in my life, they made the legal side a breeze. Thanks everyone!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Chad compton
I cant say enough great things about Jackie and Lily. They helped me greatly through a difficult time. They were easy to get a hold of and answered all my questions promptly. Would recommend to anyone needing their services!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Sara
Kris Freeman was amazing and took my case when no one else would because it was so close to the end. She jumped in, reviewed everything I had already done, and made it happen! I highly recommend this group to anyone who needs a good attorney!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Bernie jesik
Christine Salamon and Patricia Wallace were outstanding in handling my case. They were very professional, compassionate and very prompt in all matters. I would highly recommend Modern Family Law if you should ever need a family attorney.
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20 Jan, 2025 by Amy downs
I had a problem that was very worrisome and complex seeming to me. Mary made it very straightforward and very clear, and helped with every step along the way.
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12 Oct, 2024 by Alex zhang
Mary walked me through the process and addressed all my concerns, highly recommend!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Mark brambila
04 Jan, 2024 by Michael ellis
I had a very intricate legal situation, and Clyde Zamir from Family Law Group provided outstanding support. His explanations were clear, he kept his promises, and went above and beyond by working after hours one several occasions! Clyde ensured I understood every detail, offering trustworthy guidance throughout the process by making calls, sending emails, and offering overall guidance/support. Kudos to April and Kenah for their prompt responses to my emails and phone calls no matter what the issue was, making me feel like Family Law Group was more than just a name—they treated me like family. Highly recommended!
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03 Oct, 2023 by G watkins
This law firm is amazing! They helped me in such a dark time in my life and make this whole process so much easier. Would recommend to anybody.
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20 Sep, 2023 by Thomas mellow
Very helpful. Honest and straightforward and answered all my questions. All I could ask for.
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28 Oct, 2024 by David barnett
Cory is a surgeon in the court room. His ability to dissect all of the facts, keep all parties on track, and his exemplary attention to detail are top notch. He cares about the case at hand, tries his best to negotiate and reason with the opposing party and keeps everything relevant to the case.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Taylor maggio
Cory and Kristie were the perfect team to help me through a very emotional and stressful time. They were timely with their communication, comforting, reassuring, professional, and knowledgeable. I'm so happy I decided to work with them and highly recommend their services. This experience was very new to me and they supported me through the whole process.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Raymond jordan
Amazing team. They really care. Special shout out to Kristie Mumma and Brandon Prenger.
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13 Oct, 2024 by John hanna
Marrison Family Law is amazing. They helped me navigate the difficulties of my divorce. I completely recommend them.
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05 Oct, 2024 by J gee
I wanted to take a moment to make sure I recognize my Attorney Pat Marrison. At first I didn´t think I had a case but thought I would take a chance and request a consult with her. Marrison Law had handled my divorce over 10 years ago. My ex husband was retired military and Marrison Law made sure I received what I was entitled to when we originally divorced.
My ex decided he did not want to continue to make payments. We were married for more than 10 years. For those of you out there that don´t know what you are entitled to as a spouse to a military service member. I would encourage you to use Marrison law. Attorney Marrison took my call at the end of her busy day and advised me on what I could do before hiring her services.
She is truly a woman of integrity and highly experienced in military divorces. It played out just as she said. She did not have to do that.
Thank you, Attorney Marrison thanks to your free consultation I was able to get my ex to start sending my payments again.
Make sure you know your rights property and Alimony are 2 different types of payments.
Attorney Marrison is incredibly patient, and kind. She will answer all of your concerns. She will help alleviate any doubt and fears of how to proceed. I highly recommend her firm and if I have any issues again I will surely hire her as my attorney. Thank You Attorney Marrison and God Bless you.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Allie marie
06 Feb, 2025 by Aa
The Gasper Law Group, and specifically Randy Koonce, was incredibly helpful in assisting my family and me with our estate plans. Due to unforeseen medical circumstances, we needed a quick turnaround, and Randy and his team exceeded our expectations. We visited on Monday, and by Wednesday, we were reviewing and signing our estate plans, which included a Last Will and Testament, General Durable Power of Attorney, and Medical Power of Attorney. Randy was thorough and took the time to answer all our questions. I highly recommend this firm and their team for anyone in need of estate planning services. Thank you Randy, Therese, and Pam for your help and for putting our minds at ease.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Conway
While I’m very glad that I didn’t need to hire anyone because it was dismissed before court even happened. I wanted to say how incredibly kind the people here were. Brandon reached out to me after hours and that was a huge weight off my shoulders. I spoke to a very kind lady on the phone as well before speaking to Brandon for a second time. I genuinely feel like the people here cared about helping me
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28 Jan, 2025 by Melissa morman
I just completed my estate plan. Attorneys Pam Radigan and Randy Koonce and paralegal Therese Hofheins were highly professional and wonderful to work with. Randy and Pam answered all my questions and went through my documents step by step, explaining everything thoroughly. I could not be more pleased.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Amairany dominguez
I am so thankful to have found Greg Quimby and his team to represent me and in such short notice take on my case. In only 2 weeks before my final court they were on top of my case and made miracles happen. Everyone was so friendly, understanding, and compassionate. I am extremely appreciative of all of them and what they did for me especially because they won my case. I was extremely impressed with Greg and his team's knowledge as well as his presence in the court room was amazing and very respectable. Walking into the courtroom i felt at peace knowing he was on my side representing me and I couldn't be happier with the outcome. 100% recommend!
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14 Sep, 2024 by Cody blount
I have been a repeat client of this office due to the fact that they are amazing! I have never experienced bad customer service from anyone. Between my husband and I, we have retained Erica for 3 separate cases/incidents. They work hard to make sure you're heard, and Erica and Susan don't let anyone push them around, and nothing slips by them. I REALLY hope to never have to spend money on attorneys again. However, if I do, I will most definitely contact the Law Office of Greg Quimby! I feel like they're family!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Momof3
I wish I could give this place 0 stars! My husband and I separated a decade ago, we have 3 kids together, my husband hired this law office to represent him to go after split custody, however my husband and I worked things out a week after hiring them and we NEVER went to court, this law firm submitted 1 document for him to the court but we NEVER made it in front of a judge for them to ever represent him. This place then sued my husband for $5k because he signed a document saying he would hire them to represent him, they didn’t care that they never represented him and that we worked things out, all they cared about was the money and don’t truly care about the “best interest of the families they represent” I think that’s beyond messed up they would sue him for what?!?! Till this day my poor husband is still paying on this debt because it has incurred thousands in interest the longer it sits not being fully paid off. We have paid $3000 and still owe over $11,000 for absolutely nothing! By the time they finally get paid off we will have probably paid close to $20k! I would never recommend this law firm to anyone unless you want them to help you destroy your life and put a financial burden on your family.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Sonja anderson
They made the process simple. They kept me informed all the way through my case.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Leah feltner
I had a great experience with everyone at McKinney & Assoc. The front staff, paralegals and attorneys were all kind, thorough, and helpful. Steve McWhirter was my attorney and I always felt that he cared for me and my case. I appreciate all their help through a very difficult time.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Renae and allen paris
My son had Stephen McWhirter represent him in his divorce case. My son’s ex-wife was allowed to lie and defame my son’s character and his ability to parent without being confronted during a cross examine. Mr McWhirter allowed the other attorney to take all the time, delay the final hearing and claim she had full consent from my son before submitting the final hearing to the court. McWhirter not only didn’t stand up for my son but didn’t even stand up for himself with the opposing attorney. $25,000 to be drug through the mud. Disgusting.
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21 Jan, 2023 by Alexandra alberti
Horrible horrible lawyer. She represented my mom in the middle of a complete nightmare scenario for our whole family. We are now seeing the impacts of her complete lack of fighting for my mom and it's awful. The amount of effort put into what she did for my mom was minimal, at best. I would never recommend her to anyone in need of a lawyer, ever. After a divorce, someone should be able to move on in an okay situation due to the fact that their lawyer made sure of that. There was so much that was overlooked. There was no attention to detail. There was no soul in the fight from this lawyer. Do not hire her. You'll regret it later when you're sitting there wondering why so much is still being taken from you or your loved one that should have been concrete and locked down after the divorce. If you're reading this, keep looking. This lawyer isn't where you should stop your search.
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09 Sep, 2022 by Shane davis
The law firm's website is infected with a URL Phishing malware.
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15 Dec, 2021 by Erin aguilar
Rudely interrupted, not friendly and just purely not professional
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
