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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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06 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
The entire staff at Marrison Family Law is top notch! Having been a client for 2.5 years during my DV divorce and custody case, I can say with out a doubt that I made the best choice in law firm. You can tell that every client matters to the owner Pat Marrison and the firm. Mark Bosworth and his paralegal Shannon have been nothing short of outstanding through the entire process- and I did not have an easy divorce case. They handled every aspect of the case with professionalism, support and are both extremely knowledgeable and well versed in the process of family law cases. I was awarded full custody of my children and Mark and his team fought to make sure that was the outcome. I cannot recommend them enough! When you are going through a hard situation and need someone strong by your side, Marrison Family Law is the best choice!
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16 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
A friend referred me to Dominic J. Perrino and told me that he was helping her navigate a contentious adversary who was negatively affecting her children and was causing great distress for her whole family. She told me that Mr. Perrino was compassionate, highly efficient, helped her with the documentation, and listened carefully to her needs.
I had spent several months contacting about 42 divorce lawyers in the Colorado Springs area, but I finally decided to go with Marrison Family Law because of my friend’s recommendation.
Mr. Perrino did not disappoint — far from it, and he came up with strategies for me that solved seemingly impossible problems, saved me tens of thousands of dollars, and was able to assist me in negotiating a divorce settlement that made the difference between walking away with enough to start my life over or ending up in a protracted fight and financially catastrophic outcome which is the likely fate I was facing.
My paralegal, Rene, has given me appropriate, focused attention, responded quickly and efficiently to every inquiry I’ve made, at the same time that she and my lawyer have worked very hard to keep my fees to a minimum.
As a result, I was able to get through this extremely painful and harrowing process in roughly 100 days with competent, caring support. I have full confidence that they are fully invested in my success and truly care about my well-being.
A professional staff member at Marrison Family Law answers the phone every single time I have called during business hours. They respond to my e-mail communications usually within the same day or no later than the next business day. They are consistently professional, courteous, and efficient.
I am eternally grateful to Dominic, Rene, the support staff, and Ms. Marrison for providing a level of personalized and professional service that I would never have been able to find at a big-name law firm. Also, unlike other practices I have researched, they do not have a policy of intentionally aggravating emotions in order to create conflict between the parties so that they can increase their charges. Quite the opposite, they were completely cooperative to my insistence that I maintain a stance of peace during the divorce process. They made sure that I didn’t incur any unnecessary charges so my total divorce costs were about a third of what I expected — and I am fantastically happy about that. I must also give credit where credit is due; this outcome heavily depended upon the cooperation of the other party to a peaceful process.
Everyone has a unique situation and experience with their divorce, so your experience might be different but I highly recommend Marrison Family Law because they are truly focused on my success, are cost-conscientious, and they were able to provide efficient, personalized, creative strategies for problem solving.
Finally, and most importantly, I believe that my friend’s referral to Mr. Perrino was Divinely directed. Thanks be to God for His provision, protection, and guidance!
Blessings,
An eternally grateful client
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03 Nov, 2022 by Krys
Pat and her firm were highly recommended to me. My first lawyer went on maternity leave (she was awesome!) and Pat stepped in to help. She was kind, professional, and very supportive of my difficult and long case.
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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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17 Mar, 2024 by Gm barr
I've known and worked with Mr Eastland several times over many years, both in the past and recently as well. He is extremely knowledgeable and thorough in all he does, and explains things in a manner that someone who's not well versed in law understands. I appreciate him and his staff very much and would (and have) recommend him to anyone!
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13 Dec, 2023 by Denise lange
Mr. Eastland is the best, and I have recommended him to others. He has prepared my Will, as well as some other documents for me over the last 10 years.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Gail barr
I've known Mr. Eastland for years so naturally when I needed legal assistance with estate matters, he was/is my choice! He and his legal assistant are so helpful and knowledgeable which puts me at ease! Anyone needing these services will be so pleased, as I am, with Mr. Eastland!
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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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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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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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26 Jul, 2024 by Nancy sanders
I would absolutely recommend that you consult with this attorney and retain his services. I'd your having issues with real estate and or shared ownership any type of civil dispute or disagreement. My experience has been like a light on the darkness.
I had issues with shared ownership of a home.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Claire schroeder
We’ve worked with Tim Priebe with our construction company. When we’ve had homeowners not pay invoices, Tim has always advised us with our best interests first. Highly recommend!!
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01 May, 2024 by Hannah van roekel
Stephen is an excellent attorney and mentor. He is constantly looking for innovative ways to get justice for his clients. I would not hesitate to recommend The Longo Firm!
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25 Jul, 2024 by Mark brambila
24 May, 2024 by Jai
I found Mary while searching YouTube for steps for a name change. Not to sound like a hippie but I gravitated towards her energy. I set up a consultation and in that initial meet I felt as if I was talking to a long time friend. Needless to say, she accepted me as a client and our journey began. Mary made things very easy for me. She laid things out step by step. She was speedy and prompt in answering any questions and walked me through the entire way. I have told her privately how much I appreciate her and now I publicly! Mary, thank you again!
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01 May, 2024 by Jk patterson
Mary was very helpful and efficient with my name change! She is extremely kind and made this process painless for me. Thanks so much, Mary!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Maureen rayner
Great lawyer with solid advice and counsel. Highly recommend!
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20 Feb, 2024 by Joerhamilton
I retained Clawson and Clawson to represent and guide me through the complicated and confusing Colorado Workman’s Compensation system. Michael Clawson personally handled my case and his paralegal, Tammy stayed on top of every detail. The entire staff is very approachable, helpful, and responsive. Thanks to their expertise and perseverance I was awarded a very fair settlement. I highly recommend Clawson and Clawson, LLP without reservation.
Respectfully,
J. Hamilton
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05 Feb, 2024 by Leonard garcia
The Best! From the first phone call to the day my divorce case was finalized(appox 1.5 yrs) Mr. Clawson, Natalie Buer, and the entire staff embraced me with care, honesty, and integrity. I was granted a favorable decision due to all the hard work and intelligence of Clawson and Clawson Law firm. If you wish to be represented by one of the best i highly recommend !!
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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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04 Dec, 2023 by Stacie kwitek
Lisa Dailey handled a potentially contentious legal issue for me with brilliant ease. She and her team were easily accessible and quick to respond to inquiries. Lisa is a top notch attorney!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Kathryn tchokreff
Such a good experience with Cory! He advocated for everything I needed and gave great advice. Overall had a very fair ruling and an even better outcome than I expected because of the diligent work of Cory and Kristie.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Mokey lokey
Brandon pringer is a beast of a lawyer skilled knowledgeable and thorough. He is honest and I have referred alot of people to.him already he is worth every dime
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19 Jun, 2024 by Brian
You will struggle to find a better law firm than Aviso in Colorado Springs. They are exceptionally prompt, friendly, and knowledgeable. They are the only law office that I will be using in the future, and the only one I will recommend to family and friends. Kyra is an absolute ace, and I am incredibly grateful for her approach. I wish I could give 10 stars.
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22 May, 2024 by Rhysand orion
From the moment I sought her counsel, Attorney Salamon exhibited a level of dedication and understanding that immediately put me at ease. She took the time to listen attentively to my concerns, providing invaluable insights into the intricate nuances of family law.
What truly sets Attorney Salamon apart is her unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for her clients. Throughout every stage of the legal process, she demonstrated a mastery of strategy and negotiation that instilled confidence in her ability to advocate on my behalf.
I wholeheartedly recommend Attorney Christine Salamon to anyone in need of exemplary legal representation in family law custody cases. With her unparalleled expertise, unwavering dedication, and compassionate approach, she is a formidable ally whose guidance can make all the difference in securing a brighter future for you and your loved ones.
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22 May, 2024 by Janessa ortega
I had the pleasure of working with Christine Salamon during a challenging custody case and couldn't be more satisfied with the experience and outcome. From start to finish, Christine demonstrated a high level of expertise, professionalism, and genuine care.
Christine Salamon has an outstanding grasp of family law, particularly custody issues. They provided me with a thorough understanding of my rights and the legal processes involved, laying out a clear, strategic plan tailored to my case.
Throughout the case,Christine maintained excellent communication. They were prompt in responding to my questions, whether by phone or email, and kept me informed of every development. Their ability to explain complex legal concepts in an understandable way was incredibly reassuring.
One of the most significant aspects of working with Christine Salamon was their empathy and support. They took the time to listen to my concerns and provided emotional support, which was invaluable during such a stressful period. Their compassionate approach made me feel more at ease and confident.
Thanks to Christine's hard work and dedication, the court's decision was favorable, aligning with the best interests of my child. Their ability to present a strong, compelling case was key to this successful outcome.
Overall, my experience with Christine was exceptional. They are not only a highly skilled attorney but also a compassionate advocate who truly cares about their clients. I highly recommend Christine Salamon to anyone seeking a knowledgeable and empathetic custody attorney. Their dedication and professionalism set them apart in the field of family law.
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21 May, 2024 by Frank bailey
Patricia Wallace thank you so much I appreciate the help
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11 Oct, 2024 by Nathalie pace
I was represented by Drake Larson and felt completely comfortable since the first meet. He prioritized both my feelings and my case and made everything a lot smoother than what it would have been without him. Super grateful for his hard work and energy that he put into his clients.
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03 Feb, 2024 by Shannan vogel
13 Dec, 2022 by Val clapper
Phil Winegar was our lawyer years ago and I never thought about leaving a review. I was made aware that I could do this as of late. He is a wonderful lawyer and a kind man. He helped us during an extremely trying time. We are very thankful for all his help. He is a good man to have on your side.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Dave
I cannot express how grateful I am to Mikayla for her outstanding work in my recent court case. I was going through a tough legal battle with my ex-wife, and Mikayla's professionalism, dedication, and expertise were exactly what I needed. From day one, she made me feel confident and reassured, always providing clear communication and a solid strategy that ultimately led to a successful outcome.
Mikayla was not only knowledgeable but also compassionate and kind, truly understanding the emotional rollercoaster and legal complexities of my situation. She handled everything with the utmost care and attention to detail, and her courtroom presence was nothing short of exceptional and commanding. Thanks to her, I walked away with so much more than I could have ever expected.
If you’re looking for a fierce, competent, and caring attorney, Mikayla is the one to trust. She turned what could have been a stressful experience into a victory, and I can’t thank her enough!
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15 Dec, 2022 by Jeffery
Mikayla stepped into a difficult situation when my trial attorney left the practice of law. As others have said, she is fierce, knowledgeable, and practical. She knows the law and presents it calmly to the court in ways others only wish they could. She keeps an open ear, spots issues, and crafts legal writings that result in positive outcomes. More importantly to my own situation, she approaches cases with an eye toward the long term impact on trial history and the well being of children involved. Her ability to see the bigger picture and move to resolution is without compare. I’ve referred others to her knowing she is the right person to navigate difficult times. I don’t want to be in litigation, but if I must, Mikayla is the first person I call to unwind and correct issues. My children, let alone myself, are better off as a result.
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13 Dec, 2022 by Bertie
I gave Mikayla an unbelievable amount of evidence, and updated on issues throughout the 2 years of my divorce. She failed me on so many levels. She submitted documentation with incorrect information. She didn't know opposing party evidence was relating to, as she told me in the middle of my hearing. She failed to ask the pertinent questions during questioning that would have been a game changer. I would never hire her again. This isn't a bash for all because my case came out bad, I got what was most important to me, but she cost me thousands of dollars in back-owed support as well as assets that she never accounted for.
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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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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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25 Jun, 2024 by Kim watkins
We had a long road ahead of us with adopting my daughter. Every single member at the office was very kind, welcoming, understanding. They walked us through step by step on things we didn’t understand. I would refer anyone, going through this process to them.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Santiago fajardo
18 Jun, 2024 by Michael blake
My case was unique and took way longer to resolve than first anticipated. The cost was higher than originally anticipated, but it was due to the complications of the case. They were always helpful when questions arose. The only negative is the original lawyer quit and moved on so I had to have another lawyer assigned, but it did not really affect the outcome.
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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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01 Sep, 2023 by Susi lacross
I would NOT recommend this firm. They DO NOT care about you, just closing cases. I lost $60,000 in my divorce due to Steve not being prepared. He didn’t fight for me. They cut my last bill in half because they knew they failed me. Susi
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02 Jul, 2023 by Maria carroll
Wonderful and very helpful with my case
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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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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.
