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03 Jun, 2024 by Liam stanton
Good people
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19 Mar, 2024 by Mommaof3
he is the best! i would not hire anyone but him for child custody or divorces.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Angelica waldridge
Five stars ACROSS THE BOARD!!!
THE ABSOLUTE BEST ATTORNEY AROUND!!!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
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13 Jun, 2024 by Fredco conneighton
07 May, 2024 by Renee reeves
17 Apr, 2024 by Hani tsegai
5.0
3 Reviews
01 Jun, 2020 by Lindsay
Jenna’s knowledge, professionalism and compassion shown consistently for my daughter and I was superior. She was an absolute pleasure to work with, prompt in her responses and very patient with all of my worries and questions. I would rate her 10 stars, if I could! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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20 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
It was unfortunate that I need Mrs. Overmann services but she did a amazing job handling my divorce.
She is organized, level headed and cuts thru the BS. At the beginning I was unsure because of all the emotion of just going thru the divorce but looking back I made the right decision by hiring her.
And I have interviewed 8 or 9 senior level attorneys with 20 years experience.. They would not be any different from the service and knowledge you would get from Mrs. Overmann. I would give her 6x Stars if I could.
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15 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Jenna has always handled my case with the utmost respect and professionalism. She responds in a timely manner and has always done what she says she will. I would recommend her to anyone.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy lunsford
08 Jul, 2024 by Lesa bailey
ms ridings is a great lawyer!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Crystal williamson
The lady Kelly Ridings is amazing!! I would definitely recommend her. She is all around a great person to work with!!
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07 Dec, 2024 by Ashley simpson
06 Dec, 2024 by Dilshani
06 Dec, 2024 by Larry row
They handled everything from start to finish, only thing you and your spouse have to do is fill out paper work they send you. They'll even notarized the paperwork, you don't even need to see your spouse too, they'll mail the paperwork or you can go into their office. Overall wonderful experience, if you're looking for someone to handle an uncontested divorce this are 100 percent the people to go and see.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Shatha sh
I highly recommend Howell & Kidd they are truly the best you can work with. Everyone here is so kind,friendly and professional. Courtney is an exceptional person who takes the time to understand your situation without taking advantage of your needs. I was truly pleased to work with her because she treats you as a person, not as source of income. I would like to thank them and wish to them continued success.Thanks a lot "You are the BEST".
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08 Oct, 2024 by Stephanie cochran
We used Courtney Howell for our adoption attorney and we couldn’t have been more happy to work with her. From our very first phone call, she was just as excited for our sweet boy as we were. Every step of the way, she was accessible to answer all questions and concerns. She was informative about the whole process and made sure everything was 100% taken care of! We would recommend her to anyone!
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14 May, 2024 by Katherine eschels
Courtney was helpful and responsive throughout the whole adoption process! We had a difficult journey, but Courtney made everything easier and was very compassionate and caring every step of the way. Very grateful that we found her!
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21 Dec, 2024 by Erica oechsli
Zach is the best! He's very knowledgeable. He helped me through my divorce. He always replied to me and made the process so easy. I definitely recommend him!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Whitney miles
Ashley has been nothing, but helpful and kind to me over the last few years. I will always be thankful for her & her guidance.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Sarah hay
Adam Stotts is professional, punctual and fair. Most importantly, Adam focuses on and defends a child’s best interest. He has been an outstanding advocate for Father’s parental rights.
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15 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Axon went above and beyond to help me and my family. My son was in a horrible situation and Mr. Axon fought for what was right and true and got him home with us like he needed to be. We’re so thankful for his time and all his efforts.
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10 Jun, 2019 by Jessica
Grant is one amazing person! I can’t go in to much detail at the moment. But this man truly puts his heart and soul into his work and it’s easy to see. Truly a life saver for my family. I thank god everyday we chose him to represent us in a few different cases. They’re ongoing at the moment but I have all faith in this man. So easy to talk to and always available when we have questions!!
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29 May, 2019 by Jordan
I had the pleasure of Mr. Axon representing myself recently in a child custody case. He explained everything well to the point where I could understand what was going to happen. Very professional in the courtroom and was always available when I had a question. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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30 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Every lawyer I called before calling greg felt like they didn't care and weren't easy to talk to. It was easy to lose hope in dealing with a difficult time and not having any idea what to do with my situation. Greg called me back moments after leaving him a voice mail. He was kind, caring, he listened, and answered all of my questions. Greg knew exactly what he was talking about when it came to my case. He offered an immense amount of advice to me. He was not driven by money like other attorneys I had spoke to before hand, he was driven with care. After talking with Greg, I'd recommend him 100 percent without hesitation. I can't thank him enough for his time in speaking with me and all the help and guidance provided.
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06 Nov, 2015 by Greg
Greg did a great job in helping us to understand our options and explain the steps to move forward. He is responsive, on time, and thorough. He is flexible in his meeting schedule and reasonable priced. I would recommend him.
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02 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
My attorney was excellent from start to finish in regards to communication, providing me with documents, and explaining what they meant. Everything was done in a professional and timely manner.
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07 May, 2020 by Anonymous
Kendra helped me a great deal with my case. She was there when I needed her. She was able to help me with a motion filed against me. She was quick in taking charge of my case and made time for my concerns. Kendra was very confident and I will be using her in the future. Highly recommended.
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12 Feb, 2019 by Clifford
Kendra helped me with a complicated custody action between states. She was prompt and professonal the whole time. She walked me through the process. She always responded quickly to any questions I had. She is kind, caring, and passionate. Definitely the best attorney for the job. In the end I got exactly what I wanted and what was best for my child. I could not be more pleased with having Kendra as my attorney. 10/10 would recommend!
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05 Apr, 2018 by Ross
We were impressed. Kendra provided us with quick services and answered all of our property management questions with ease.
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30 Jan, 2017 by Matthew
I have had contact with a large amount of lawyers since 1981 when I got into law enforcement. I have never met a more professional person that always responds to my emails and calls. All questions asked are answered directly and quickly. This is the first time I have had to employee a lawyer through my vehicle insurance company and I am very happy with the services provided.
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17 Jan, 2017 by Rick
Susanne Cetrulo provides top notch legal services. Her experience is vast which allows her to provide excellent representation while valuing your time. She is flexible and allows for work to be done over the phone or via e-mail as necessary. However, she is very willing to meet in person if that is what is required. Hiring a lawyer can be quite scary but Susanne's knowledge and experience will put you at ease. She is highly recommended.
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21 Nov, 2015 by Kimberly
Unlike many attorneys, Suzanne is not constantly watching the clock, looking for how many ways she can bill you. I hired her for an adoption, and it was a great, caring experience! Later I hired her for wills/POA/healthcare directives; quick, easy, and reasonably priced. I also asked for quick advice a couple of times. She was there with reassurance--and not an INVOICE!
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02 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Tasha and her team were incredible to work with. Tasha made the entire experience a very positive and empowering one for me. I am forever grateful for the entire team that worked on my case and lead me to a happier life.
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17 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Tasha and her staff have been wonderful to work with. Tasha has always listened to my concerns, answered all my questions, and gave suggestions on how to proceed in the future. She carefully explained what to expect with the process of my case. My mind was quickly put at ease with the knowledge that everything was in very capable hands. She is confident without being arrogant, compassionate and genuinely caring. Her nature is comforting.
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24 Sep, 2021 by Jessica
Tasha is great to work with. She is very smart, encouraging, kind, creative, thoughtful, and she gets the job done! I had such a wonderful experience with Tasha and her staff! I would definitely recommend her. Absolutely love Tasha!!
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15 Nov, 2016 by Myra g. steffen
Ashley helped me modify my divorce papers in regards to child support. She was on top of things, and more than fair to both parties involved. We loved Ashley and highly recommend her to anyone in search of a good family attorney.
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05 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Ashley was a wonderful and understanding attorney from day 1. Her empathy for my situation amazes me to this day. She poured herself into my case and became not only my attorney but my friend. She walked me through the entire process and held my hand through the toughest days of my life. When I was brokenhearted and couldn't fight for myself, she stood up and fought for me. She didn't just look for billings, she actually cared. Her intelligence, knowledge of the law, and meaningful tactics allowed me to to get more visitation and less child support than I had imagined. It's nice when you are heartbroken to have someone to fight for you that you can believe and trust wholeheartedly. After the divorce, Ashley stuck by my side as we weathered the storm that came from my ex and her boyfriend. And eventually we were able to file for and gain custody. Ashley had told me from day one that I would eventually get my kids if I was patient and stayed out of trouble and didn't react to their harassment of me. I followed her instructions even though it was hard and Ashley came through for me again. I can't say enough wonderful things about her. If anyone is reading this and searching for someone that will fight for them. take their case personally, and produce the best results our legal system will allow, then Ashley Wiggins is the lawyer you need to choose. Trust me that you will be happy that you did.
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23 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Ashley is knowledgeable, organized and personable. She was prepared for court and made sure I was. Ashley and her team took the legal part off my plate because they understand divorce is stressful enough. She returned calls, emails, and turned in legal papers in a timely manner; she doesn't mess around and is proactive. I moved to another state after my divorce, I keep asking her to move so I can keep her on retainer!!
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02 Mar, 2016 by Brian
I have used Greg Taylor multiple times for attorney work and always receive the highest level of service. Greg is accessible, willing to answer any questions, very quick in completing the work needed and affordable. He works hard to produce quality work and to help his clients and that is why I continue to use his services and refer him to others.
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01 Mar, 2016 by Ryan
Greg has handled dozens of real estate closings for us as a closing attorney and will continue in that capacity in the future. He is always very organized, diligent, and very knowledgeable; pricing is always fair and at the agreed upon price or less. I would recommend Greg for any of your legal needs!
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18 Apr, 2013 by Courtney
We used Greg to close our loan on our new house. Greg is fast, professional, organized, and keeps thing on schedule. Our loan closed on schedule. Greg is easy to work with and I highly recommend him. He came highly referred from local loan officers for his ability to get the loan closed on schedule.
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22 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Jenny handled our case with kindness, professionalism and made the process very easy.
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19 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Jennifer Dusing carries herself with class and strong professionalism. She is passionate about doing the best job she can for her clients. She is strongly rooted in the law and ethics, as well as relatable to clients so that working with her feels seamless and productive. I am so thankful to have had Jennifer aid in the legalities of my divorce and provide the legal insight and support required to successfully maneuver through such a life altering process.
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17 Feb, 2017 by Amanda g
Jenny was fantastic. From the moment we called and asked if she'd be able and wiling to handle our case, we felt comfortable and confident.
She maintained ongoing communication and was very knowledgeable about the different process and procedures.
We highly recommend Jenny!
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03 Apr, 2016 by Leigh
Bruce Orwin has recently assisted me on numerous occasions, and has done an exceptional job across the board. Previously, I have hired Bruce to assist me with estate and will planning, and to establish a trust for my child. Bruce has assisted me in writing contracts for tenants, as well as lease agreements, and most recently helped me to create a Limited Liability Corporation. Bruce is professional, courteous, punctual, diligent and meticulous. I will continue to contract with Bruce to assist me with my legal matters. I highly recommend Bruce as an exceptionally skilled attorney with the highest integrity and excellent work ethic.
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29 Mar, 2016 by Debra
I would highly recommend Bruce Orwin. He's very intelligent and he cares about his clients. He made me feel like my case was top priority and gave me excellent legal representation. and advise.
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29 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Orwin treated me like my case was important to him and kept me updated and informed. If I ever need a lawyer I would use The law office of Bruce Orwin!!
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05 Aug, 2017 by Thomas
Mrs Dietz helped with my divorce and child custody. She was simply amazing. My ex wife tried to be a bully and Mrs Dietz didn't allow it. She even at one point told my ex to stop talking (because my ex was verbally bashing me), and said that it's my turn to talk. She helped reveal the truth that my ex lied and that I was being honest. Hopefully I never have to go through a divorce or custody battle again, however if I do I will definitely be seeking help from Mrs Dietz.
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07 Jun, 2007 by Anonymous
My wife and I used Ms. Dietz to finalize a complex international adoption. She was outstanding in her role. I highly recommend her.
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12 Aug, 2013 by Mitchell r.
I have used Mr. Kerr in cases in both Logan and Christian County. He is very professional, easy to work with and will get you the best deal.
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10 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Hallock helped me through a very difficult legal issue
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03 Jan, 2024 by Terry huff
She was my Attorney 25 years ago. The best doesn’t cover it.
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19 Jan, 2022 by Dennis gambrell
Martha is the real deal straight sitter
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24 Mar, 2020 by Austin edwards
08 Mar, 2013 by Perri froehle
Our experience with Brenna has been nothing short of outstanding. She is hands-on, she quickly addresses our concerns and questions, and she provides common sense advice and guidance, all of which allows us to highly recommend Brenna as a confident legal representative of family law issues.
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06 Mar, 2013 by Sarah mullins
I highly recommend Penrose Law and Brenna! She was great to work with and made me feel very comfortable throughout the process with her expansive knowledge. In addition, she was also very consistent in her communication and kept me up-to-date throughout the process. She made the entire process quick and easy. I would highly recommend her services.
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24 Jan, 2013 by Micheal j
Brenna is a great lawyer. She treated me right as a client. I have already recommended her to several people and I will continue to do so.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Darcy kirk
Miss Sarah done the most wonderful job for me on my divorce. She is so kind and made me very comfortable while she worked with me. I will definitely recommend her for anyone to use. It was so easy and very quick. I am and will always be very grateful.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Jeff higgins
I've had a couple different attorneys since my divorce dealing with custody/child support issues and Mrs. Jones is the one I should have had from the beginning. She is an amazing attorney who cares about her clients 100%. If I could give more than 5 stars I would!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Paul cellucci
I needed a good lawyer to do a simple divorce, Sarah came highly recommended her fees were very reasonable and she did a great job in handling my divorce. If you ever need a great lawyer I highly recommend using Sarah she's a great lawyer.
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02 Nov, 2021 by David thornton
Did what was needed. Nothing more,nothing less.
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19 Jul, 2020 by Katie sharp
05 Feb, 2020 by Marissa lainhart
15 Feb, 2024 by Teresa lona
06 Dec, 2023 by Sarah mccormick
I called up there and had an appointment with them it's $250 for a consultation to see if you want to take them on as a lawyer it was definitely $250 wasted she acted like she didn't have time she had no interest and it was definitely money first what was going on second. I was very disappointed.
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20 Feb, 2022 by Sbriscoe 0318
Amazing attorney has helped me and had my best interest in mind always.
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16 Nov, 2022 by Ben
I hired Michele to take over my divorce case that was on going, based on her 5 star reviews.
My first encounter with her was us going through details about the process. I provided every single fact/ proof that would determine fair and easy divorce.
She was all over the place on our two encounters, and the date for the mediation was set. She came in UNPREPARED, admitting she doesn’t KNOW my case minutes before the zoom call- mediation was taking place. When the zoom mediation started she did not represent me nor the case but she just agreed on whatever the other party wished for! She left the room every single time between breaks and did not want to sit and talk NOR consult with her own client that happens to be me. But she had the guts to say, CALL ME WHEN THE MEDIATION IS BACK ON!
I was left all by myself in that room that day, not knowing what’s happening, and the lawyer I was paying a tremendous amount of money to represent me, wasn’t even willing to consult nor communicate with her own client!
I faced a severe loss, as she was bothered to present facts during mediation to the opposing party that day.
As the mediation was taking place, she kept shoving all the possible assets towards my x-wife voluntarily, even though I had all the proof and documents stating the assets in question weren’t marital ones to split in two!
After I walked away confused and lost, the divorce was finalized, and I had to constantly beg her to send me either an email or mail me the divorce decree.
And unfortunately, I still had to take care of a minor thing left from the divorce, I asked Michele if she could finalize paperwork, my x wife’s name taken off the deed, ( this issue was a total neglect she could have handled the day of mediation)
I went ahead and paid another enormous amount for her to do a job she failed to initially do on the day of mediation.
Michelle Eisenmenger, my divorce lawyer, you were very expensive for the job you did not do, let alone do the job right!
My case could have been an easy one in comparison, but it cost me heartache, time and a huge amount of money, and time is the ultimate luxury.
It’s takes a lot to sit down and write an honest review as I feel for the people going through a traumatic experience with divorce and families being split, so they chose wisely, yes please, do chose wisely!
I would absolutely NOT recommend Michelle to handle even the easiest, slightest legal matter let alone trust her to handle your family/ divorce case.
It will shape your life in the most uncomfortable direction, because she decides to not break a sweat and learn about her client, learn about the case, so she can present her own client fairly. SHE CUT ALL POSSIBLE CORNERS TO EARN EASY MONEY, she used vulnerability and overcharged and crushed me in the process.
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19 Jan, 2022 by Kara
Michelle took my custody case with very short notice, and thankfully we won. She was very thorough, open, straightforward, professional, responsive, and kind. She made me feel more at ease, and made me feel like she was on my side. Her staff that I dealt with was professional and respectful as well. I would hire her again and recommend her to others as well.
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01 Oct, 2021 by Katie
Michelle provided great service during a difficult time. She was so helpful in navigating the divorce process. She was quick to respond to any questions and very professional. Definitely recommend!
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03 Aug, 2024 by Luke yaegel
02 May, 2024 by R brandenburg
20 Apr, 2024 by Amy locke
Ted is so nice and really works w you on prices
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30 Oct, 2023 by Tanya rogers
Bobby and Eddy are the bomb, great people!
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28 Sep, 2022 by Tim “pickone” berry
02 Jun, 2022 by Karen baker
Bob Bornstein helped me when I called his office. He was very polite. He answered any questions I had in a way I understood. He was there to help when I needed it.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Nikki glover
Very professional
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08 Jul, 2024 by Crystal spears
08 Jul, 2024 by Crystal gussler
14 Dec, 2024 by Susan baum
I was an out-of-stater needing to find a local attorney I located Marl's name online. I left a message and he returned my note very quickly. He fully understood my situation and spent much time on the phone discussing my concerns. I knew I wanted him to represent me. He met me in court and sure enough his strategy for the issue was perfect. His friendliness, professionalism, and skill helped me resolve the issue. I highly recommend Mark to support you in your legal matters.
Susan B
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11 Dec, 2024 by Yung old
Mark is the man. Traveling through Kentucky, I left the commonwealth with several charges including a couple felonies. Waited until the last minute and finally turned to Google to find an attorney to help me through my.. situation
Mark absolutely delivered on every aspect of the case. Zero surprises. He has a good working relationship with state prosecutors and is able to navigate conversations and plea negotiations more effectively than most other lawyers.
If you find yourself in a situation you absolutely don’t want to be in and if you want to put it behind you as quickly and as definitively as possible, give Mark a call and give him the details of your situation and allow him to put your mind at ease and get to work getting you the best result possible.
Thank you for all you do, Mark!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Chadrik kyle
Mark responded to my initial call immediately with an appointment that day. He was clear and consise about what he could do. The day of court he achieved exactly what he said he would strive for. I will definitely use his services again in the future if needed as well as recommend to anyone who needs counsel. Thank you Mark you are very much appreciated.
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3.4
5 Reviews
4.6
50 Reviews
28 Nov, 2024 by Sam robinson
I was very fortunate to have retained Ruth Wilkerson earlier this year to represent me and my interests in a child support modification. Contacting her and arranging a consultation was a smooth process. She addressed my concerns and provided valuable advice regarding my interests. I am very thankful for her representation and wouldn't hesitate to recommend her to anyone seeking a professional AND personable lawyer. 10/10. I'll retain her services again without hesitation.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Meg wilson
I cannot recommend Ruth Wilkerson highly enough. After 36 years of marriage, I found myself navigating an incredibly contentious divorce, and Ruth was exactly the kind of attorney I needed to guide me through such a difficult time. From the very beginning, she was prompt and responsive—often replying to emails and calls immediately, which gave me such peace of mind throughout the process.
What truly stood out to me about Ruth was her ability to balance her representation of both parties while always keeping my best interests at the forefront. Her advice was clear, detailed, and incredibly helpful. She asked thoughtful questions that I never would have considered, ensuring that every loose end was tied up before finalizing anything. At times, I made suggestions that, in hindsight, wouldn’t have been wise, but Ruth patiently explained why certain paths would be better for me in the long term.
What’s more, Ruth’s approach was not just about legal expertise—she was also kind, compassionate, and understanding during a very emotional time. She was always professional, but there was a genuine care in how she handled my case. I felt supported, respected, and confident in her guidance every step of the way.
Hiring Ruth was, without a doubt, the best decision I could have made. I’m grateful for her exceptional service and would recommend her without any reservations. If you need a skilled, thoughtful, and compassionate divorce attorney, Ruth Wilkerson is the one to call!
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15 Jun, 2024 by Dina english
I am so grateful I chose Ruth Wilkerson to represent me in my divorce case. She was quick, efficient and veryyy patient with me and everyone involved in my case. She understood more about what I needed than even I did! She fought hard to get the case closed and did whatever was needed to get the job done! She is also an incredible human!!
Don’t hesitate to hire Ruth. You will be so glad you did!!!
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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.
