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10 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
Rob is absolutely wonderful! He was very supportive, informative, and sweet! He did a great job explaining the process and Rob and Olivia both went out of their way to make sure we had an amazing experience!
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20 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
We have only the best things to say about Rob at Kirsh & Kirsh. As soon as we were matched, Rob called us and gave us the most warm welcome. He was the most thorough lawyer we've ever spoken with in regards to adoption and we had gone through the process before. He truly educated us on things we had never been told and always made sure to help us understand. He was a wealth of knowledge and support through our time finalizing our adoption. He truly cares about the birthmothers and the families looking to adopt and it is so apparent! We were so grateful he was brought into our lives & was the one who carried us through adding to our family. We highly recommend him as your attorney to anyone looking to adopt. Thank you so much Rob and Kirsh & Kirsh!
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11 Jul, 2023 by Michelle
Helped us adopt our little girl. Was very informative and walked us step by step of what to expect. Made it so it wasn’t overwhelming.
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26 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Was an extremely unprofessional atmosphere. Was definably not a good choice. Rushed to complete and please choose a different mediator. Would not use again.
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04 Dec, 2020 by Gil
A very honest and reasonably priced attorney! He is very very knowledgeable on the law and the best way to proceed with your case! I’ve used his service multiple times because his service has been second to none for me! I highly recommend him for all of his specialty services!
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08 Feb, 2019 by Andrew
Travis handled a bankruptcy for me and was just excellent to work with. He returned calls and or text messages in a timely manner. I alway felt he was there for me when I need him. He really guides you through the process and makes you feel comfortable. Everything went smooth as I could ask for. Highly recommend him to any and all my friends and family.
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22 May, 2015 by Anonymous
I recently had Marc represent me in family court. I hope the ratings speak for themselves as I would highly recommend him. The phrase "goes above and beyond" should be on his business card!
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10 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr Halata listens, cares and you can tell he genuinely loves what he does. He was extremely affordable and he helped me at a time when I most needed it. I have an upcoming issue where I'll likely need the services of an attorney again and I would not hesitate to call this gentleman.
No, I'm not related to this guy; nor is he my neighbor. I ranked him so high because he earned it. His responsiveness is a six out of five, by the way.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Cody boyce
Joe was absolutely professional and got the job done. This man made it so quick and painless to get my record expunged and give me my rights back. I can’t thank him enough for what he did for me and my family. I HIGHLY recommend him if you need an attorney!
He communicated very well
It was affordable
And he was absolutely great to work with!!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Jason breitwieser
I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Raymond M. Adler, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome. They demonstrated an impressive level of dedication, expertise, and professionalism throughout the process. They navigated complex issues with ease and communicated clearly every step of the way. I felt well-supported and confident that my case was in good hands. Highly recommended for anyone in need of a skilled, compassionate advocate.
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09 Sep, 2024 by John yount
It was after spending hours searching, making phone calls and getting the run around that I eventually found Duepner Law LLC. I had a simple, specific service I needed help with. Not only did Joe Duepner help me with greater immediacy than I'd so far received, he also managed to do so at a rate that far out-performs others in the market. I'm immensely grateful for the help I received, would definitely recommend Duepener Law to friends or family in the future, and urge anyone who's on the fence to go ahead and make a call.
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09 Jan, 2019 by Tonya tidd
She made my calls a priority. Her follow up was stellar. She sent follow up emails after talking to us after the court hearings to make sure we understood what exactly happened in court and what to expect next. Her fee structure was well explained and fair. She has a lot of experience and that was obvious with her knowledge of case law and just the law in general. It is very hard to be heard when you are JUST kinship placement in our DCS system. Mrs. Boyd successfully helped us in this process. She is prompt, prepared, and ready for whatever is thrown at her, she is very fast on her feet. She was confident, yet graceful and well respected in the Juvenile court. We are so thankful for the referral and would recommend Mrs. Boyd highly.
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04 May, 2018 by Felicia
Elaine was a referral from a friend. I'd never been in court before and, I was so upset and afraid when I received my summons in the mail. Elaine was prompt and reassuring. She worked meticulously to find out as much information as she could that pertained to my case. She consulted with my child's teacher, his therapist, and others to make sure that what was in the best interest of my child would be the outcome in this case. Myself and the other parent had a horrible relationship when this all started . We were required through the courts to complete a course and Elaine wanted feedback. She asked me questions, in hopes that I'd learned something that could be applied to my specific family situation. I won in court, myself and the other parent have a much better relationship now, and most importantly my child is happy. I had no hope in the beginning of this case and by the end of it all my family was free from all of the strife and disappointment from past years.
I'd hope that no one I know finds themselves in the same situation I was in but if so I know how I can help. I'll refer them to Elaine. She's trustworthy, she cares, and she gets results. Thank you so much Elaine. You have been a huge blessing in my life and I'll never forget what you did for my family.
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13 Jan, 2014 by Samuel
I met Elaine in 2003 when I married her niece. At the time I had no rights to my 3 daughters and was constantly fighting my ex-wife lies etc. I am proud to say that I now thanks to the hard work of Elaine have custody of my daughters. She saw through all the lies and painted a plain picture for the judge to see. Because her great attention to detail EVERY lie my ex-wife told, Elaine had the truth in black and white. My ex didn't give up easily, we went all the way to the Court of Appeal and I am proud to say because of Elaine, I have my daughters and my ex-wife can not use anything to hinder our relationship. THANK YOU ELAINE. WHAT CAN I SAY I OWE YOU SO MUCH. I HAVE PEACE OF MIND.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Claudia rose
Brett Galvan is truly so amazing!! One of the best and my most favorite attorneys that I work with. Truly so kind and puts so much into the work that he does. He has helped so many of our drivers and is the most understanding attorney I know! If you consider hiring him, don’t think twice JUST DO IT!
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19 Nov, 2024 by Bridget tillema
16 Oct, 2024 by Kyle sereiko
Brett has done a wonderful job for multiple issues I’ve had in the past. He’s fair, easy to work with, and all around a great guy. Definitely would recommend 10/10
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10 Oct, 2024 by Johnny “chavez”
23 Jun, 2023 by Wendy sweeney
So far so good!
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30 Apr, 2023 by Summer
26 Sep, 2024 by Rick
21 Jun, 2024 by Dave laspas
My wife and I would like to thank Mike and Tina for all they did for us. Mike is a true professional and craftman at his trade. He recognized we were in jam. He put on a clinic throughout the process. The other side had no chance and folded up camp.
Thank you Mike. You will forever have special place in our lives.
Dave & Lisa
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09 Feb, 2024 by D_christine
Lori was unprofessional, disrespectful, and lacked common human decency.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Chestnut hills chiro
03 Sep, 2024 by Srikanth d
nathan sandwich
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25 Jul, 2024 by Nathan lapid
21 May, 2016 by Kimberly
Mr. McKay is hands-down the best attorney I have ever retained. He handled a case 4 hours away from my residence by appearing for me. He is extremely knowledgeable and goes above and beyond for his clients. His secretary, April, is one of a kind. She is very professional while also making you feel like a friend. Emails and call backs are very prompt. I would recommend to anyone in Owen county.
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16 Jul, 2013 by Letha
John McKay represented me in a marriage dissolution in an extremely professional and competent manner. His staff is keenly attentive and helpful. I always received responses from his office in a very timely fashion. He successfully negotiated a very equitable settlement. I highly recommend Mr. McKay.
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06 Jul, 2021 by Kathy
Mary Kohn helped me navigate the estate and probate court system following the death of my Uncle. She was professional, was responsive to all of my questions and concerns in a timely manner, and displayed an expertise in her field. I was most grateful for her assistance and would highly recommend her.
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20 Apr, 2015 by Wendy
My first meeting with Mr. Pickett went smoothly and he was very upfront and honest about his concerns and thoughts about my case. He was very thorough in explaining what I needed to prove my case and what my chances were for winning. I was very appreciative of the fact that he did not talk down to me. He was extremely professional and showed concern for my worries. I would recommend him to anyone seeking legal advice.
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22 Apr, 2021 by Dustin
I highly recommend. I wish she was in Texas because I would higher her again.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Melissa
Trying to figure out how to get charges off my record that are not mine. I'll be so thankful for your help with this situation it's preventing me from moving on in my life! I've been clean and sober on February 14th
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16 Jul, 2020 by Cynthia day
03 Jul, 2018 by Jaime swango
Kevin O'Keefe is an awesome estate/probate attorney. We hired him for our grandparents estate and he did a fabulous job. I'm so glad we got to work together. He is extremely accessible and ready to return emails or phone calls with very reasonable timing, almost immediately by email many times. Our process was special and had many twists and turns and he was always able to give me answers and advise. I felt very confident knowing I had him to turn to in our situations. I would definitely recommend Kevin to everyone. He explained this process in such a way that I am able to tell someone else. He is excellent. Thank you Kevin for being a great attorney!!! My family is happy to be finished lol. Please choose Kevin and tell him that Jaime's review sent you!!!!
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06 Dec, 2023 by Holynootnoot
Felt bad he has a lot of 1 stars so I gave him 5 stars
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03 Oct, 2023 by Jayne joseph
Mr. Spreen yes is a very busy man. However, he got me cleared of 20 charges. Just he also is a free county attorney so it's a lot of cases js
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31 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Things started off absolutely fantastic between Emily and I. She was kind and informative and I felt a relief having her on my side because I literally had no one to help me fight a narcissist that didn't care about the family he abandoned. But then one wrong, albeit accidental issue in court and she abandoned me at my time of need. I misspoke about something that I truly made a mistake on and explained that thoroughly to her. Everyone involved understood, even the opposing side that it was a mistake but Instead of trying to work with me or trying to understand that I would never purposely jeopardize my own case, she withdrew from my case. No chance to talk to her about it, not even a good luck as she snuck out the back door The horrible thing is that she threw me onto the plate of a completely inexperienced and non-existent attorney that she recommended. My new attorney showed up late to court, blew her breath in exasperation at the judge and doesn't return a single phone call or email. Even though Emily made it sound like she was going to be able to take over for her. Emily abandoned me for all of the wrong reasons. And hurt my family's chances at a better life after being abused by my narcissist ex.
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15 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Did not follow through with what he said. Unresponsive to requests for update.
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12 Nov, 2013 by Frederick
Mr. Rocker has been nothing short of extraordinary in handling my affairs and the affairs of my company. As having been caught up in the real estate bubble several years back, my company has had its share of turmoil. Mr. Rocker has been there and continues to be here every step of the way. In addition to company issues that stemmed from the "bubble" bursting, personal issues have come my way as well. Jeff has handled each case with the utmost attention to detail. He continues to carefully explain his thought process and strategy in dealing with each situation as if it and I were his only case. His very thorough analysis of cases have shed light to our benefit in more than one instance. He has a very hard to find ability to articulate extremely technical legal terms and statements into more common terms that a non-lawyer such as myself may understand and use to make informed decisions with his guidance. For me, Jeff posses a valuable attribute in his follow-ups. He ALWAYS gets back to me the same day or as close to it as possible. I can be somewhat of a high-maintenance client and you would never know it by the way Jeff and his entire team at Beck Rocker treat me. They're never snarky or sound as if they'd like to say, "it him again." In fact, the team at Beck Rocker sound delighted and very enthusiastic when I call or run by the office.
In closing, I can't imagine having gone through the past eight years without Mr. Rocker as my counsel. I certainly don't plan on navigating the next eight years with any other attorney.
If you are reading this and are in need of a mindful, trustworthy, distinguished, astute, loyal, dependable, and "leave no stone unturned" attorney, Mr. Jeffrey Rocker is the attorney you've been searching for!
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11 Aug, 2013 by Alex
Jeff Rocker and his team were great at helping me set up a complex estate planning strategy. Revocable trust fund, last will and some business ownership structures. He was crystal clear when explaining all the options as well as the pros and cons associated with them. He and his team were also very fast in setting this up - I was the bottleneck in getting all the information to them. Jeff was recommended to me by other Indiana lawyers that do their estate planning with Jeff Rocker
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06 Jun, 2024 by Ryan time
Dale has helped my family,friends, and myself over the years for a variety of different reasons.
If you need assistance
I highly recommend Dale Coffee
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06 Mar, 2024 by Ryan ogden
He's great, all around. Knows his stuff. Highly recommend him
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21 Nov, 2023 by Crystal edwards
02 Dec, 2024 by Ryan moser
I've never felt so taken advantage of I'll leave it at that !!!! I can't give 0 stars !!!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Melissa mirza
Anna was amazing! She helped me with my case and got the best possible outcome! Highly recommend!
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27 Oct, 2024 by Gina decker
*2nd review. Was contacted and asked to remove my 1st review*
When Anna was in contact with us she seemed empathetic and determined. However she'd go weeks without answering our calls and messages via portal, as we fought for very basic fathers rights.
We requested numerous changes to custody paperwork before it was filed that were never honored, and pushed aside as "this is what is standard" and our requests to go to court were not followed through on, on 3 separate occasions.
We were told at one point we could stop making payments because we were ahead of payments, so we have been in good financial standing the entire time.
In a crisis situation with the children, we were unable to reach Anna for weeks. We eventually received a letter that we required immediate attention that she didn't have time for right now, and that we were being dropped as clients in 10 days. The letter also stated that we were valued clients and to please consider her in the future.....
We contacted Anna to ask what kind of refund we could get and while she said she would look into it, we heard nothing further.
We are so deeply disappointed to have spent 15 months working with Anna, only to have her suddenly drop our case when we were facing a family emergency. Left high and dry, no lawyer and no refund.
Would not recommend.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Marty
We were assigned Mr. McClelland who came across as a nice guy initially. However, his lack of attention to detail in doing the work required was very worrying, with him missing out key parts and putting in things that should not be there all, of which we made clear to him from the start. Not only that, but he also gave two firm dates in writing to have draughts completed, both of which were missed. He then indicated that he did not want to complete the project. This caused us to totally lose faith in the company, and we fired them as our attorneys after many years with them.
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29 Nov, 2023 by Stephanie rae
Mr. McClelland is an excellent attorney, as well as a good person. He has been helping our family with estate planning, and has truly gone above and beyond to accommodate while simultaneously striking the perfect balance of kindness and professionalism.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Stephanie rae
18 Dec, 2024 by Amber sullivan
12 Dec, 2024 by Mckenzie vibbert
Incredible experience and a very kind person. He definitely cares about his clients.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Dawn sorenson
Tara was a famtastic lawyer for us in family court. We went to her on a recommendation so I'm paying it forward... Tara is easy & straightforward to work with and a top notch lawyer in the courtroom.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Shampree miller
Thank you again Mike for all of your help with my dissolution. Mike and the staff were all very kind, informative and reasonable priced. I can definitely recommend him
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06 Jan, 2025 by Bobby frm1500
I give them 5 stars because my lawyer Mike had helped me see my child that was taken from me years ago he’s much respectful and helpful and got it done fast -darnell
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19 Dec, 2024 by Karly smith
Mike was absolutely wonderful to work with for my dissolution. He is prompt and courteous, while doing a great job of keeping me informed. He was able to work with my work schedule, and is very reasonable cost wise. Highly, highly recommend working with him!
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07 Nov, 2024 by Jazheel hannah sangalang
Some of the nicest people I’ve ever met. They did an awesome job on helping out my case! They respond to my messages and questions right away. Would rate them 10 star if I can!
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28 Oct, 2024 by Silvana
05 Sep, 2024 by Jean tantsman
I've worked with Eugene for many years now and whenever a legal question comes up - I get a complete and detailed answer. I referred others to him and everyone is satisfied with the work. If the question is outside of their area of expertise - I get either a referral or where to look. Can't recommend them highly enough.
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13 Feb, 2025 by Kelly stowers
Great office! I got the help that I needed so quickly, and was kept updated with every step of the process. I really appreciate the assistance, and communication!
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02 Feb, 2025 by Sara
Excellent service. His work speaks for itself. Helped me when nobody else would take the case and he did an amazing job and won.
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18 Nov, 2024 by J bee
Mr.David worked Appeal for my friend. Unfortunately the appeal is not successful but I can see that he work his best and he also get it done faster. He reply fast whenever I asked him something and his assistant Katy is also very good with reply and answered every questions. He also helped me finding PCR lawyer for the case, which is really helpful for me. Currently I am working PCR with one of the lawyer he recommended.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Kevin hastings
One of the best lawyer experiences I've had. I just got a call with results i didn't even know were possible. after thanking him for job well done, he stated, "you deserve a break". I couldn't be more grateful. Thanks!
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14 Dec, 2024 by Mark bragdon
Very professional and knowledgeable in bankruptcy law. A very pleasant personality, everything was explained, from your fees to what was expected of us as clients. I would highly recommend her if you are looking for a caring individual who is willing to listen, which is what impressed me the most, a very good listener. Thank You
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01 Aug, 2024 by Nolan bayers
Very helpful
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05 Aug, 2024 by Jasper dulin
He had a full understanding of my needs even though it was a complex legal issue involving real-estate, inheritance and legal rights.
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20 Dec, 2023 by Samantha thompson
Danny is a good lawyer and fights for you. We have hired danny 2 times already and would recommend him, actually I recommended him to my sister for her divorce.
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17 Oct, 2023 by Jacob struble
Did an amazing job taking care of an infraction deferral. They were very clear with what they offer, how they handled it, set real expectations, and then they met and exceeded the expectations. 10/10 recommend!
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01 Jul, 2024 by Julia partida
Overpriced.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Marcia degraaf buis
Bruce and his staff were fantastic! They worked quickly and efficiently. Highly recommend if you need a family attorney.
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13 Jan, 2024 by Joe hall
20 Jul, 2024 by Mike elbert
I'm very pleased and would definitely recommend
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14 Jun, 2024 by Randal campbell
Evan was my lawyer. He handled my case exceptionally well! Thank you Ingle Law Office!
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04 May, 2024 by Brad heishman
01 Feb, 2023 by The miller’s
23 Oct, 2022 by Laura blake dangler
26 Aug, 2021 by Destiny hernandez
06 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
A family friend got guardianship of my 2 year old when he was a newborn well I just had his brother 1/27/2018 dcs is involved so they placed him with his brother with the family friend I want her to have guardianship of him too so he can't be separated from his brother well DVD is refusing that as an option please help me
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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:
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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.
