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09 Jul, 2017 by Dennis
Attorney Miller was prompt with all phases of my case. I also got the right, just, and favorable outcome from my case thanks in part to her experience. If you have any family law issue (I had several ranging from elderly care, child care, estate questions, death, and divorce), I highly recommend using Attorney Miller. She fought for my case in court and she wasn't afraid to take the case to trial. I had answers to all questions rapidly. 7 different lives were made better thanks to her help with my family law issues. SEVEN people benefited from her assistance in my case.
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07 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Melissa was very professional in my divorce proceedings. She filed all paperwork required and only had me come into the office if necessary. She was able to keep it out of court. She was very informative on the steps we needed to take and let me know what usually happens next. I would highly recommend her services.
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17 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Thanks for all your hard work Melissa
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29 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Jason and Jennifer McCartha went above and beyond our expectations! They were organized, thorough, and experts at explaining all the legal terms and requirements we needed to know. I feel confident beginning my new business that they have helped me form.
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13 Jul, 2017 by Josh
Mr. McCartha was a HUGE help in getting my LLC started. We went over the ins and outs of my company, he gave me wonderful advice, and I left with full confidence that I knew what I was doing. He took all the time had needed to (almost 4 hours) when explaining everything and I will now recommend him to anyone and everyone I talk to!!
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28 Jun, 2017 by Linda
I live across the country and needed a Lawyer in Huntsville to Probate my Mother's Estate and I was fortunate to find Mr. McCartha and his wonderful wife Jennifer. They walked me through the process very thoroughly and gave me excellent advice and information every step of the way. I found them to be very genuinely nice, caring people and felt like I could trust them as soon as I met them. They went out of their way to expedite the initial filings so that I only had to make one trip to Huntsville and made me feel confident that they would continue the process expertly - which they did. I highly recommend Mr. McCartha and would not hesitate to contact him again should I need to.
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18 Aug, 2018 by Pam
Aaron helped me with my contentious divorce. He communicated regularly with me, responded quickly to emails and phone calls, and made sure I understood everything that was happening. He didn't mind explaining things and answered all of my questions in detail. Unfortunately, we had to go to trial (not at all his fault, the ex refused to negotiate a settlement) but Aaron did a great job for me. He was very calm and sure, and presented my case very well before the judge. In the end, I was awarded almost everything we asked for. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Aaron for anyone needing his services.
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10 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Aaron is an outstanding, caring, professional attorney who was able to handle both child custody and personal injury claims. He is very knowledgeable and has a way of making you feel like you have a friend handling your case because of his sincerity, responsiveness, and the way he explains your options clearly.
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18 Sep, 2013 by Chelsea
Aaron cares about the cases he works on and the people included. Going through a child custody battle is the hardest thing I have ever went through, and he was very supportive and did everything he could to help.
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28 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Anderson worked with us to set up a life trust and living will. He gave us his email address if we had questions, which he responded to. He followed up with us after we had paid him making sure we had done everything we were suppose to on our trust. He was great. Very pleasant.
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15 Feb, 2022 by Dale
My wife and I have putting off getting our wills done for a while. After the holidays, we finally decided to get it done. Mr. Anderson asked us many questions, listened to our concerns, and drew up the paperwork to get it done. It was surprisingly painless. I would highly recommend Zach Anderson.
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10 Oct, 2016 by Scott
We have had the opportunity to adopt again in our home state since using Mr. Brodowski years ago in a previous adoption. Our middle child was adopted out of Alabama and our most recent Tennessee. We hired Mr. Brodowski after our Alabama adoption was contested 16 years ago. He was compassionate, extremely accessible all hours. Very thourough and professional. We owe the privilege of having been able to raise our 16 year old to these people. Our current experience in Tennessee is still ongoing, but the experience is no where close. If you want to adopt a child, you cannot go wrong with Micheal and his legal staff.
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25 Apr, 2017 by Claudinette
I sought the services of Attorney Williams. I was very pleased with the service as well as the professionalism of her as well as staff. She provided wills, POA (financial and medical) as well living wills.
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16 Mar, 2020 by Howard
Attorney Green recently closed a law suite for me. Attorney Green is a compassionate, professional lawyer with integrity, with a very friendly capable staff who works tireless to insure the client receives all entitled within the law. Without hesitation I will recommend her to anyone looking for a well equipped attorney.
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07 Nov, 2022 by Brittany chavarria
Such sweet people at this firm....
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04 Nov, 2021 by Mary e. grubbs
Ms. Hall saw us when we had no appointment. We appreciate that so much, and we have confidence that she is going to represent us well. She has been a very big help. Her new location is convenient, and the area is nice.
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10 Apr, 2018 by Elizabeth
I hired Maureen in a custody matter and she was wonderful to work with. She was highly Knowledgeable in the area of family law and extremely professional. Maureen was able to work out an ideal settlement with opposing counsel. I would highly recommend Maureen.
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07 Sep, 2016 by Jenny
I have consulted with Maureen Cooper for two different issues related to divorce and alimony . In the past , the thought of consulting with any attorney was one associated with fear and dread . I have had contact with lawyers in the past who had no genuine desire to help me quickly resolve a problem or to provide straight answers . I had never consulted with an attorney who genuinely wanted to earn the respect and trust of others as much as he wanted to take advantage of my problem for his own profit . Ms. Cooper is a rare gem because she is competent , straight forward , not manipulative and earnest in her desire to assist people and not exploit their problems to advance herself in an unfair way . She is a good person , and if someone needs an attorney they can trust who will not take advantage of them , she is the first person to call . I hold her in high esteem and feel thankful to know an attorney of her caliber in competence and human decency . I asked another attorney who was too busy to consult with me for a name of an honest and capable lawyer . She spoke highly of Maureen , and I must agree she was correct in her assessment of Maureen Cooper.
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29 Apr, 2016 by Denise
I had a very difficult Injury case, that I didn't think could be won, but Mrs. Cooper prevailed without breaking a sweat! Also, she and her staff are beyond kind and caring. They seemed to be truly concerned with my dilemma!
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12 Jun, 2021 by Susan
I have been very impressed with Mickey’s knowledge and professionalism. He is usually available when I call with questions or returns my call in a reasonable time.
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20 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
First i want to say Lee Nation is a nice person. But he is a NOT a good lawyer, definitely not a strong lawyer. I am writing this to protect others from choosing an incompetent lawyer to ruin their cases. He does not prepare, he does not respond calls and emails promptly and most of time even ignore them. His answers are inconsistent and misleading. And he gave wrong legal advices. He read my documents only 11 PM at the night before the trial. His mind was not present at the trial. He was passive and did not fight. It was a waste of money, but it was also the source of stresses. I do not recommend him. Take time and be patient and find a good lawyer who does the work you pay for and fight for you.
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04 Mar, 2023 by Owen
He seemed like a real straight shooter during consultation. I ended up hiring a lawyer who was a better fit for my case, but I would nevertheless recommend Mr. Nation above most of the alternatives.
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16 Jul, 2020 by Matt
You helped me out alot you got my case handled how it needed to be done and u helped me with probation than you and I'll recommend you to everyone
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07 Apr, 2019 by Jennifer
Shelley represented me for my divorce and custody dispute. Through the entire process she was extremely strategic, patient, and effective. When things got tough and I struggled to find strength, she was strong, creative, and RIGHT. She sincerely cared about me and my family. Rest assured you are in good hands with Shelley Bilbrey.
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27 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Shelley took over my contested/high-conflict divorce after a few months by recommendation. She listened to my concerns, pulled together the evidence I provided, tackled the unfortunate problems associated wtih a high-conflict divorce head-on, and strategically pulled me through the entire process. She was prompt, well organized and showed up to win whenever she set foot in the courtroom. At one point during the process I had the opportunity of what she had done in her past life and if/why she enjoys being an attorney. Her answer reassured me that she legitamately cared for the well-being of my children and was going to do in her power to make sure we acheived the outcome I was seeking. She did all of that and more and I couldn't be more grateful. Her staff was a pleasure to work with as well. THANK YOU, SHELLEY AND CREW!
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21 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Shelley is a real go getter. She won my custody trial after a tough 2 year battle. She cared about me and my kids and it showed in the courtroom.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Joseph ramsey
Sara and her office staff are great to work with. They helped me open an estate for my brother She listed and addressed all of my concerns. If you need to open an estate for a loved one, give them a call.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Michelle
How would you like to go to court and your attorney does not know your name? Her assistant did all the work and made excuses when the attorney did not deliver and would not give me my money back. Handle your personal affairs or tell the client you are unable to help them. Awful Awful and then the courts sold my home on auction without notice. Sad. No stars
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23 Jan, 2020 by Clark
Sara and her staff made things so easy for me. She made it easy to open my mother's estate. She broke everything down perfectly throughout the whole process. I was very impressed and would definitely recommend to anyone who needs representation.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Bad experienced with this lawyer. Not recommend it to friends and neighbors. No tricks for the business please... Thank U
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16 Oct, 2023 by Leslie edwards
Ms. Banks was my attorney starting in January 2011 and represented me for several years from that point, through more than one custody battle. My case was extremely complicated and convoluted. Page definitely did her homework and took all the extra steps to fight my case. She even came in and watched some public cases that could have affected my case, in order to be fully prepared to fight for me. It was a long, hard battle, but we came out on top in the end, and Page played a vital role in that. I 10/10 recommend her as an attorney.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Did not tell me i was divorced until after i had used medical insurance, resulting in a large bill not being covered. Sent property division paperwork to the wrong branch of the military.
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25 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
She was rude, unprofessional, and practiced poor ethics. She has a bad attitude, and seems very entitled does not follow directions also does not have a good demeanor with most family court judges in Madison County. She works for one of the big name on the door guys but that still doesn’t guarantee the quality of her work.
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12 Aug, 2021 by Teresa
I naively went to Amanda Canupp for my divorce (2017). I told her about the abuse I suffered. Physical, emotional, and mental abuse. I've come to learn, after firing her for later services (2021) that all she did was put my case in a que/ on a conveyer belt without dedicating any personal focus or attention to my case or custody scheduling. I've come to learn that my ex should not have 50/50 custody with me, and because the case settled, there is nothing I can currently do. It should have been done right the first time. Four years later, I need the help of my attorney to file a contempt charge. Not only does she ignore my requests, but my ex-husband filed one, because Amanda blatantly ignored my request, I was not able to file my counter in time. She WASTED hours and weeks and money. I would call and/or email and receive no response for over one week, multiple times, during a time I was in great need and paying for her services. This happened on many occasions. Her excuse when I got her on the phone was that I was not at the head of her cue, and she assured me that when my case came up, I would be the priority. This is non-sense, and her lack of dedication and delays caused me to incur more expenses and I was not able to take the actions I was paying for her to assist me with. I fired her, humorously enough, she emailed me back within 30 minutes, and 'told' me we would "discuss it tomorrow", as if I were a child. I did call the next day, and gave my complaints. We talked for about 45 minutes, not at my request. Guess what.... she charged me for that phone call to. She works under a respected name in Huntsville, AL, which is why I hired her, but she is not a advocate for her client. The money I invested in her services for my contempt $6,500 (in 2021), was money wasted, but was still obligated to payed. I went on to another attorney, and my case was resolved with LESS cost and a positive affect. If I had stayed with Canupp, I would have been out $12,000 and a negative final impact to my case. I am certain. Lanier Ford should reimburse the $6,500 I paid this firm for my contempt case, but if I called, i'm sure they'd charge me for that too. I am a single mother, educated, was going through difficulties in my life and received no respect from this attorney.
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01 Nov, 2019 by Steve
Amanda picked up my case when my prior lawyer abruptly closed. She reviewed and revised my filing including pleadings and QDRO. She made improvements and resolved all of my concerns in same business week. Her charges were minimal and her services were outstanding. Had I started with Amanda, I likely could have closed my case in half the time at half the cost.
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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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