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2 Reviews
4.4
96 Reviews
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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5.0
7 Reviews
4.0
143 Reviews
22 Feb, 2025 by Mobolaji komolafe
I am beyond grateful for the exceptional legal services provided by the Lawyer Office of Sola Egunyomi in facilitating the approval of my wife’s change of status. From the very first consultation, Attorney Egunyomi exhibited a level of professionalism and expertise that immediately put me at ease.
What truly stood out was his attention to detail. He took the time to thoroughly understand our case, ensuring that every form was meticulously filled out, and every document was in order. He did not overlook even the smallest detail, which played a crucial role in the success of our application.
Throughout the process, Attorney Egunyomi maintained clear and open communication. He explained complex legal concepts in a way that was easy to understand, alleviating the stress and confusion that often comes with such daunting cases. His ability to articulate the nuances of our case, combined with his calm demeanor and reassurances, was invaluable.
Though we initially got a RFE, his courteous approach made us feel comfortable and confident that our case was in the right hands. Attorney Egunyomi’s commitment to securing the approval for my wife’s change of status was evident, and I am truly thankful for his tireless efforts in ensuring everything went smoothly.
Thanks to his dedication, we received approval, and I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to handle such a critical matter.
I highly recommend Attorney Egunyomi to anyone in need of a reliable, professional, and compassionate legal assistance. He is way better than the best?
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22 Dec, 2024 by Gregory
Very helpful, and kind and always answered questions if I needed help with anything. Professional and would recommend to family or friends. Thankyou so much!
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10 Dec, 2024 by Ms mimi
I found attorney Sola Egunyomi through google search and I am so glad that I have found him as he was very helpful and due to his excellent knowledge of immigration law my proceedings was terminated.
Besides being an outstanding professional, he is super attentive and always assuring that things was going to be ok anytime I called about a concern I had.
This is me saying thank you again attorney Sola for the great work you've done. I would recommend you over and over again to anyone with immigration law needs.
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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
30 Dec, 2024 by Nathan r
These guys were clearly looking for an opportunity to make money off of us. My ex husband was apparently walked into an unnecessary mediation when for some unknown reason he called to get advice for an uncontested divorce. So, it was much to my surprise when they contacted me to schedule a mediation and then several weeks later asked for $300 for me. When I wrote them saying I never asked for this and I wasn’t paying them anything, I received a snarky imprudent response, which was my typical experience whenever there was conflict when I lived in Kendallville, from the owner essentially indicating I wasted his time.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Harlan bontrager
I knew Mr. Jansen was the right person for my case!
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19 Aug, 2024 by William ritchie
24 Jul, 2024 by John vandyke
Andrew is really nice and talked me through on the process that I'm dealing with. Gave me some suggestions and line up what the next steps will be. He isn't like most lawyers that talk down to you or act like you're wasting their time. He seems like he genuinely cares about your case.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Jim mitchell
It’s embarrassing to admit how many times in my lifetime I have needed a lawyer, but at the same time, it is comforting to recognize how often Andrew Kruse has come to my rescue. As a kid, I used to think normal people only consulted lawyers to write wills. That certainly has not proven true in my life. Andrew has helped me through the whys and wherefores of an adoption. I have consulted him in drawing up rental property contracts, preparing guardianship documents, and he once successfully represented me and my son in a civil suit. Andrew is a skilled, effective lawyer, and a compassionate, caring man. Oh, and that thing about wills – as recently as last year a close friend wanted help with estate planning as well as other end-of-life documents, and Andrew came through for her. If you need legal help, Andrew’s your man!
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08 Sep, 2023 by Jacque wilhelm
Andrew is great! He is very thorough, professional, and attentive.. if I ever need an attorney again I will be calling Andrew.
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06 Apr, 2024 by Paul scott
Aaron is a calm lawyer and knew what he was doing. Very reasonable also..
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06 Apr, 2024 by Bash k
Didn’t return my calls
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06 Apr, 2024 by Yay mail
Aaron Is a great guy, takes time out of his day to make sure what your concerns are is heard he will make sure he gets you the help that's needed. Kind hearted family man.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Doesn’t answer any questions but charges for every email and I don’t even get a reply back. We went to court and she never asked about my case until an hour before we go in to the hearing and didn’t know anything about what was going on in my case.
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03 Mar, 2023 by Lynn
attorney MEGAN WELLS. she fights for every case and the impossible. she makes it possible. excelent service. Thank you Megan, for being my lawyer.
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23 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
I 100% recommend the attorney Megan Wells. your work is efficient. THANK YOU SO MUCH MEGA. you're the best
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14 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Failed to respond in a timely manner. Showed very little or no conviction. Had to remind her what this case was about several times. She was unable to provide any legal argument. Worst legal representation possible. Wasted thousands of dollars.
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08 Feb, 2016 by Angela
I've used Julie for several years now and am very pleased with the service she's provided for me in my very challenging post-divorce cases. Having a difficult ex-spouse isn't easy, but Julie handles it very well. She is brutally honest with me and I appreciate that about her. She's friendly, knowledgeable, witty, aggressive, and trustworthy (I know that's not usually a word we associate with attorneys). I really feel like I am in good hands, and that takes away some of the stress and anxiety of being in these circumstances.
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03 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Julie was amazing throughout the whole divorce process. She made every step of the way smooth by explaining what would happen next. She is prompt at returning emails and phone calls. Julie does her research and keeps up with current laws and cases. Julie is always open to ideas and work through issues. She is willing to hear her clients out and work with their ideas. Having children involved, she knows the law and works for the best interest of the children. Even since my divorce was finalized, I have been able to contact her with questions and concerns about my case. I would highly recommend her!
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09 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I found this attorney through Avvo. He said he could not help both my everyone needing an attorney. So I am looking for a new attorney but my family member is going to see this attorney. I was surprised after reading the reviews he was charging a 100$ consultation fee & can't see them for five days. I pray he is a fantastic attorney. With the reviews saying their consultation was free ... I felt it necessary to let any one looking that that has changed.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Amanda muir
Caryn is amazing! She navigated me through a tough transition in my life. Thorough, diligent and dedicated to her services and clients. I couldn't have done this without her expertise and reassurance. Highly recommend.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Nathan king
I cannot recommend Caryn highly enough for her exceptional service as a family lawyer. She went above and beyond to ensure the best outcome for both me and my child. Her expertise and dedication were evident throughout the entire process, and she consistently prioritized what was fair and in the best interest of my family. Working with Caryn was a seamless experience.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rhonda moore
Caryn has been our family attorney for the past 4yr .She has fought hard for my family and our grandson. And we are still fighting for full custody. She is honest fair and LISTENS to her clients. If it wasn't for her we would not have our grandson right now .She is an awesome human being ...
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19 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Ladona was slow to start, had several things going on at once. Did not answer calls at first. However, outcome was great and she is very fair. I will recommend her to others.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Terry long
Maria matters represented my X-wife in divorce proceedings. I almost felt sorry for my x with her choice of attorney. Notice I said ALMOST. She’s incompetent at practicing law and loves to tell you what you want to hear.
I wouldn’t recommend her to represent anyone in traffic court much less anything of substance. Do your research on her, you’ll thank me later!
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20 Dec, 2023 by Robin lynn
Just had so questions.
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06 Aug, 2022 by Mohammed rajabi
Great Attorney .... Thanks
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05 Dec, 2024 by Dawn jones
Tyson Schroeder was very helpful and friendly. Returned all my calls and emails and answered all of my questions.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Rebecca greenwell
They are great, helped me a lot 😁
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16 Oct, 2024 by Michael holt
I appreciate how they didn’t accept the very first offer and move on to the next case. They checked in with me, gave me a few options and I made a decision from there.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Paul meert
03 Jul, 2024 by Dave carlson
Very respectful and friendly staff
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31 Mar, 2024 by Stephen johnson
They're always very knowledgeable about the law
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04 Nov, 2024 by Amie etter
Great attorney
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23 May, 2024 by S cam
Mrs. Votaw was supposed to contact me regarding my son's case to go over items for his day in court. There were so many items that were handled wrong in his case that even his reporting official was wondering why certain things were applied. And now, the only way to question these items is to file an appeal to get in front of the judge to explain what was supposed to be brought up at his court date. Once again, another court appointed attorney making the great attornies look bad.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Amy davidson
Very helpful and efficient!
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22 Apr, 2019 by Alfred howard
01 Oct, 2024 by Michael roberts
I’m surprised to see so many positive reviews to be honest. I felt over charged and had a more similar experience to Kay’s. I didn’t feel like things happened in a timely manner due to no fault of my own and how she dealt with those delays was not to my liking. She was definitely not proactive when it came to that. I was expecting a decent refund because what started out as a potential difficult divorce turned into an uncontested one with no issues whatsoever. So to be charged the majority of my retainer was very much surprising. In fact, had I not complained about the last in office visit, where I originally would have been charged additional time of her apologizing for how things went and discussing cases not related to mine, I would have owed additional money. My attempt to get resolution and a larger refund was met with what appears to be a scare tactic that I would hear from her own attorney. I never once heard anything more from anyone and that was almost a year ago. I was very disappointed to say the least and still upset after all this time. So wanted to share my disastrous experience so others would be aware. I for one wish I would have paid more attention to the one negative review at the time.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Nancy cockerham
I'm fixing something that got deleted by mistake. I've been ill. Millie is still a top notch lawyer she is a great listener doesn't judge ya! She rules the courtroom seriously she's for the underdog and most of us are. Millie is with you till she wins your case no matter how long it takes. Hire a winner!!!!
Yours truly Nancy A Cockerham
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17 Jan, 2024 by Michelle galloway
She is such a great lawyer!
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16 Feb, 2021 by Peggy lauer
21 Feb, 2020 by Sayayin kayosama
21 May, 2018 by Astrelle lucas
No longer in service.
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07 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Giving Jane 2 stars as she has the potential to be a good lawyer however when she represented me in 2022 as a Keffer-Hirschauer attorney I was disappointed on many occasions . Jane completed a lot of work last minute, which might have been the result of Keffer-Hirschauer overloading their attorneys with too many cases. Regarding spousal maintenance, Jane wasted months before asking the court for a hearing on spousal maintenance, and Jane did not follow through with the request once filed. Jane recommended signing certain financial agreements without communicating the possibility that future hearing dates may be rescheduled or extended, which lead to me being left without funding for many months. Lastly, a few weeks before a scheduled mediation and final hearing date Jane was either fired from Keffer-Hirschauer or left Keffer-Hirschauer on her own, (I have not been given a reason for her departure from either side) which then extended my mediation and final hearing, left me in a desperate financial situation and resulted in an exorbitant amount of legal fee's as I had to start over with a new lawyer.
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02 Mar, 2019 by Stephanie rettig
Ms. DeBrota's services were invaluable to me in my particular situation. I was very satisfied with the affordable fees and professional attention she gave to my case. I highly recommend her for her knowledge in gender law cases.
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06 Nov, 2017 by Frank julian
When lawyers need advice about employment and discrimination cases, they trust Amy DeBrota to have the answer. Highly recommended.
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22 Feb, 2025 by Mobolaji komolafe
I am beyond grateful for the exceptional legal services provided by the Lawyer Office of Sola Egunyomi in facilitating the approval of my wife’s change of status. From the very first consultation, Attorney Egunyomi exhibited a level of professionalism and expertise that immediately put me at ease.
What truly stood out was his attention to detail. He took the time to thoroughly understand our case, ensuring that every form was meticulously filled out, and every document was in order. He did not overlook even the smallest detail, which played a crucial role in the success of our application.
Throughout the process, Attorney Egunyomi maintained clear and open communication. He explained complex legal concepts in a way that was easy to understand, alleviating the stress and confusion that often comes with such daunting cases. His ability to articulate the nuances of our case, combined with his calm demeanor and reassurances, was invaluable.
Though we initially got a RFE, his courteous approach made us feel comfortable and confident that our case was in the right hands. Attorney Egunyomi’s commitment to securing the approval for my wife’s change of status was evident, and I am truly thankful for his tireless efforts in ensuring everything went smoothly.
Thanks to his dedication, we received approval, and I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to handle such a critical matter.
I highly recommend Attorney Egunyomi to anyone in need of a reliable, professional, and compassionate legal assistance. He is way better than the best?
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22 Dec, 2024 by Gregory
Very helpful, and kind and always answered questions if I needed help with anything. Professional and would recommend to family or friends. Thankyou so much!
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10 Dec, 2024 by Ms mimi
I found attorney Sola Egunyomi through google search and I am so glad that I have found him as he was very helpful and due to his excellent knowledge of immigration law my proceedings was terminated.
Besides being an outstanding professional, he is super attentive and always assuring that things was going to be ok anytime I called about a concern I had.
This is me saying thank you again attorney Sola for the great work you've done. I would recommend you over and over again to anyone with immigration law needs.
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01 Mar, 2012 by Andrew
Christine was referred to me by a friend in the legal environment. From day one, I knew I was in good hands. She answered any questions I had and gave me great advice throughout the whole process. Her drive to help her clients and get a quick resolution was phenomenal.
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01 Feb, 2012 by Keith
If you are looking for a diligent, responsive, trustworthy attorney, look no further than Christine Stolle. I am very satisfied with how Christine worked toward a fair resolution and successfully litigated issues I had concerning a divorce settlement. Christine was very thorough while working my case and kept me well informed. I felt very comfortable having such a zealous advocate with me in court. I would hire Christine again, no questions asked.
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30 Jan, 2012 by Candy
Christine was very efficient for me. My ex did everything he could to make things difficult but she was somehow able to get him to come to the final result that I was happy with. She was truthful with me-both positive and negative (when I needed it). She promptly (quicker than I expected) responded to my questions and issues about the divorce and helped me through this difficult time. When I worked with her face to face I was absolutely amazed at how quickly she was able to work and figure things out. Our financial situation was complicated and she sure knew how to work those numbers and FAST. My money was well spent and I have even had to hire her again a few months ago because my ex was in contempt of court. She is absolutely fabulous. I would hire her again. I first hired her in January of 2010.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Waheed rasoli
22 Sep, 2023 by Evan dowel
Horrible service never calls back
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22 Sep, 2023 by Debra dowell
Find anyone else
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22 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Mark was very professional and informative. He even did work up front to find out if he could help me and how before we even decided to hire him. I will be hiring him to assist in my case!
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04 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Mark is really poor at responding to clients emails or phone calls which is even critical due to COVID.
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28 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Mark was very sensitive and thorough when we were dealing with a sudden death of a our mother. We quickly had to organize and put our grief aside and Mark was extremely sensitive and caring throughout this process. He made everything very easy to comprehend and kept in constant communication while we figured out next steps. Hopefully no more morbid excuses to use him but would definitely use again in a different (hopefully) circumstance.
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05 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
First took the case giving me every bit of confidence that we had a fitting chance. When we got into the real battle and exchange of information to get prepared for court I had to lead the way making sure we met before the court dates, going over again what we were fighting for as if he was shocked to see me and did not give me confidence that he knew what was going on. After our court date left me with not recieving infornmation, calling the office for infornmation, waiting a month before a return phone call and after that call still not a response without me digging one out myself. With no results or explanations on what or why things went the way that they did and a very large bill in the end I would make sure you make the right choice.
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03 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Ruiz is very professional and clear. He delivers confidence and respect while focusing in the best interest of the child for my custody case.
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13 Nov, 2015 by Ashtongaines
What an absolutely wonderful lawyer. Clear, never misleading and delivers with confidence the outcome you desire . Never have I ever had a more confident and strong lawyer. He demands respect the second he walks into the room. We won custody against a horribly negligent mother in a matter of just two short months. I will never go to anybody else. An incredible man and a trustworthy attorney. You want results? He is your guy. Don't waste your money on these other timid sketchy lawyers. I give him all the gratitude in the world !!!!
Sincerely, Ashton.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Paid to get a better Plea Deal and After he got the full payment the courts came with the exact same plea deal
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16 Aug, 2023 by Melissa
Don’t even waste your time on this tool. He did absolutely NOTHING for us. House arrest probation just to name a couple for defending my home when someone walked in. Worthless lawyer
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06 Dec, 2022 by Beau
It was my privilege to retain Mr. Demotte. Obtained an excellent result given the circumstances, so that was service enough. The communication and professionalism were a bonus.
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12 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Attorney was aggressive towards others in the courtroom. She did not communicate with opposing attorney to provide evidence before trial. Attorney was unprofessional in her manner towards others. Really poor communication skills. Attorney admitted to client's fault in public place so there was a breach of confidentiality.
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05 Apr, 2019 by Christina
She was very responsive, punctual with paper work, fast on setting court dates, knows her stuff
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03 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Horrible, Horrible representation. This attorney was extremely clear that I was in an extremely vulnerable divorce situation that was high conflict with soon-to-be-ex. She was not honest about the potential cost. Mostly, she did not return phone calls in a timely manner, she did not give me a clear understanding of my case and Indiana law, she was not my advocate, she was very shaming towards me, she seemed to actually side with opposing counsel. It was bizarre. I cannot fathom anyone needing to get a divorce, who is in a vulnerable situation because they were the "stay-at-home" parent having this attorney. She does not seem to be a women's advocate whatsoever. If you need someone who will have your back and fight for your rights...do not hire this attorney.
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28 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I had Ashley represent me in a custody case. She did not do a good job. I never felt she was on my side. I felt it was strictly about money and none of my billing was correct, even the dates were wrong. I finally had enough when she more or less called me a liar.
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22 Feb, 2018 by Kim
She was my first attorney when going through a contentious divorce. She was also my first mistake. I lost custody of my kids to an abusive spouse with a long paper trail of anger management classes. I would have been better without her.
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13 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Great communication, never felt just trying to "rack up" time, direct with responses, great guidance, etc. all around great job!
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26 Jan, 2024 by Benjamin warren
21 Jun, 2023 by Lauren lang
Although the individual we worked with did have some decent feedback for our document revision, we felt that we weren't well-informed on how the firm's process works. By that I mean that we felt ill-informed regarding quotes, incurred costs, and invoicing. At the end of our interactions (which we concluded prematurely), we felt as though we had little tangible improvement to show for our interactions.
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22 Feb, 2023 by Ken cook
Tom and Justin were great to work with; they were consistently professional throughout the entire project. There was no better council I could have wished for. Thank you.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Waheed rasoli
31 Oct, 2023 by Dawn
She was appointed by the court to be a Gardian adlitem for my son when he was 16. She was paid for services (we had 30 days to complete entire payment). She interviewed me 1x and kept just pushing it off. MY SON TURNED 18 & she still hadn't/hasnt filed ANY reports Not 1. I wish I could tell the courts ABSOLUTELY do not appoint her to b a child's only defense because the court system & Her both FAILED my son so miserably.
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22 Sep, 2023 by Evan dowel
Horrible service never calls back
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08 Dec, 2024 by Richard bowman
Brian Keyser and his firm is a disgrace! First off if people have a great experiance with his business, they don't write bad comments! They lied to me on cost filing chapter 11. Had all paper work to them in week and half and $450. They said they needed $316. To file right away. 3 month later nothing done. There needs to be a class action lawsuit against his business with all bad reviews and Indiana Barr association contacted!!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Kirtis haynor
Let me start by saying I hired this guy 14 YEARS AGO, and today they contact me and ask if I want to settle up on my account?!?!?! So you contact me now about some payment.... first off I almost went to jail because he lost paperwork and wasn't prepared at my hearing. Never heard from the guy and strung my case out over 18 months. Based off the reviews this guy is a scam artist!! I paid my last payment in cash, big mistake!! I was young and stupid. Now apparently 14 YEARS LATER!! They want more money... Do not hire this guy!! Wish checking reviews would have been more of a thing back then, as I would never have hired this guy. Very cold, never talked to me unless it was about money. Clearly they are hurting and are trying to scam ppl. Also why the hell would you give credit card info and such over the phone now days when everyone is out there trying to take advantageof ppl. Yeh no thanks, I know a scam when I hear one... stay far away from this place!!
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05 Oct, 2024 by Lucas weick
Represented a family member and failed to live up to his responsibilities as a lawyer. His legal advice was incorrect and could have gotten the family member into far more trouble. When a simple question was asked, he said the family member would need to find out for herself. No compassion whatsoever. If I could leave no stars, I would.
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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.
