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08 Jan, 2025 by Angela turner
Mr. Scott and staff was very informative, and he worked my case to the very end.I would highly recommend Mr. Scott to any one that is looking for a honest and trust worthy attorney.Thank You, for the hard work you put into my case.
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29 Dec, 2024 by Katelynn andrus
I highly recommend Amber L Cain for family law matters. Before choosing a lawyer, I had several consultations and I felt that she was the most genuine and sincere. Her pricing is extremely fair as well. She gave several referrals for other services when needed. She responded to my emails and calls in a timely fashion and when my matter was resolved I received the rest of my retainer without any issues! Definitely glad I choose to work with her!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Joel gainey
Ms. Cain is a responsive, knowledgable and stalwart attorney. I retained her for a high-conflict custody case that would end up taking 18 months and the involvement of child development specialists to navigate; she was with me every step of the way, effectively moving the ball forward.
Against the backdrop of heightened stress, her ability to manage client expectations and engage both parties with practical solutions and a cool head was remarkable. Ms. Cain has an exceptional instinct for when and how to be strategically flexible, versus when to draw "red lines". My family, children and the coparenting relationship with my former spouse would not be in the positive place it is today without her support and expertise.
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5.0
9 Reviews
4.8
101 Reviews
09 Dec, 2024 by Pat friedrich
21 Oct, 2024 by Melinda sharp
When I hired Franz, I was so emotional, stressed and just didn't know what to do. After speaking with him, I felt a sense of relief, he was always available and always got answers for me. He is very knowledgeable and explains everything to your understanding. Always answered the phone when called and if he didn't, he would text you to explain why he's unavailable and would always return your call as soon as he was available. If you need an excellent attorney, he's your man!!!!!!
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17 Oct, 2024 by Matthew mcallister
Being frank, Franz kept my behind from being in a lot of trouble in a very rough situation I was in. He always picked up the phone, texted back promptly, and reassured me when I thought things were hopeless. He isn't afraid to go to bat for you no matter what situation you're in. Hire this man!
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11 Dec, 2024 by R j
The best decision I could've made was to contact Magnolia Disability Law Firm. It was beyond a satisfactory experience! Mr. Lance and Mrs. Paula is great! Kept me informed every single step along the way and provided all the necessary steps for me to provide essential information needed to get the job done! I definitely recommend Magnolia Disability Law Firm to anyone looking for a satisfactory experience for the services they provide! Their work ethics and effort to provide for their clients is nothing short of exceptional!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Corey russell
Mr. White was professional and courteous while working my case. He is truly a blessing.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Nate
Excellent lawyer, if you want a realisitic lawyer that's with you every step of the way, this is your guy! He fought to make sure I received everything I was owed. Thanks to Lance I won my case against an unforgiving system.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Tammy shannon
Sophie is amazing. She was INCREDIBLE with my son and helped him gain full custody of his two children. She never hesitated to answer a question from me or him and she was extremely fair in her cost. She is just a wonderful person. Highly highly recommend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jennifer edwards
Daniel and Tracy were ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!! They were very professional and they get the job done. You also feel like family and not just a client. They answered every question I had and never left me wondering. Highly recommend!!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Beatcat
09 Dec, 2024 by Pat friedrich
21 Oct, 2024 by Melinda sharp
When I hired Franz, I was so emotional, stressed and just didn't know what to do. After speaking with him, I felt a sense of relief, he was always available and always got answers for me. He is very knowledgeable and explains everything to your understanding. Always answered the phone when called and if he didn't, he would text you to explain why he's unavailable and would always return your call as soon as he was available. If you need an excellent attorney, he's your man!!!!!!
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17 Oct, 2024 by Matthew mcallister
Being frank, Franz kept my behind from being in a lot of trouble in a very rough situation I was in. He always picked up the phone, texted back promptly, and reassured me when I thought things were hopeless. He isn't afraid to go to bat for you no matter what situation you're in. Hire this man!
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16 Jul, 2024 by Shannon gondran
One of the best public defendant attorneys I’ve ever had.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Erica farley
Richard done our Intra-family adoption for my husband and son! He was AMAZING! It was the most smooth experience we could have asked for! He knew what he was doing from start to finish! There was no hiccups, no back and forth, he got it done in a timely manner! We will always recommend him! 🫶🏻
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30 May, 2024 by Craig parker
Solid performance, efficient and timely. Well versed and works well with other lawyers
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.5
84 Reviews
16 Jan, 2025 by Vinh nguyen
Ron and his team were absolutely great and very efficient. No need to shop for another attorney, Ron is your guy. Don't hesitate to give Ron a call and have him protect you. Thank you Ron!
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08 Oct, 2024 by Raven white
Straight to the point and gets the job done. Thank you.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Renzo b
Worth every penny
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10 Aug, 2018 by Kathy
Mr. Gaudin was simply amazing in our custody case! He was brilliant in so many ways. Our children were so blessed to have him represent us! He is extremely knowledgeable in many areas of custody and adoption, not to mention his professionalism, awesome personality and extreme dedication to his clients.
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03 Aug, 2018 by Michael
Our adoption case was not exactly the easiest. What started out as too good to be true, turned into just that. We set out to adopt a little girl 7 years old. We sought advice from Mr. Todd Gaudin as he was the premiere adoption lawyer in our area. Upon meeting Todd and his staff, we agreed to hire him and move forward. Todd is such a warm, delightful person.
As we got further into the adoption, and initial visits, it became very clear that this was not going to be a normal adoption.
At one point, I was asked to make a trip to Pennsylvania in order to move the adoption forward. Without any hesitation, Todd said he would go with me.
We hopped in the car, drove 17 hours and arrived at our destination only to find, the guardian had made some changes in the plan and decided to call off the adoption.
Todd and I stayed in Pennsylvania for several days, as we fought to reinstate the adoption.
It amazed me how selfless Todd was and is. He left his family in Louisiana to come with me to Pennsylvania so that I could build my family.
Todd exhausted every avenue he knew of in Pennsylvania, but in the end we were outgunned and outnumbered by out of state laws and judges. We were forced to go home without our little girl.
A month went by, and the guardian decided that she had made a mistake. She offered to us the little girl again. Of course we jumped right back into the adoption without question. And of course we went right back to working with Todd.
Honestly, I cant imagine an outcome other than what we got, had we ever used the services of anyone other than Todd Gaudin.
As we returned to Pennsylvania to get the little girl, we were informed of the many laws in place for the Protection of children called ICPC. We were informed by the Maryland State ICPC that we could return to Louisiana. Half way home, we were informed by the state police of Pennsylvania that they would like question us regarding kidnapping the child. The Guardian and Birth father had cooked up a story, and accused us of kidnapping her.
As you can imagine, Todd was the first person we called. Todd settled the matter very quickly, but we were asked to no longer continue our journey home to Louisiana. So, we were forced to stay with friends in Tennessee for 35 days.
During this time, Todd fought, clawed, and eventually won our little girl to us.
Through our experience, I witnessed so many sides of people that I never knew could really exist. Todd was like a spirit guide. Always showing us the way, and walking us through all trouble.
We owe our family to the heart of Todd. His never ending pursuit to do the right thing, and do it correctly is how we eventually won our little girl. Todd and his staff were delightful warriors. We never felt alone, or that we needed a different lawyer. Todd was it, and will always be it. He is family now, and a friend.
We thank God every night for Todd and his unwavering heart to get us our little girl.
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04 Jun, 2018 by Metashar
My Family had a great experience with Attotney Todd Gaudin from the beginning to the end! Attorney Todd gave us all the legal equipment that we needed for out of state Adoption through the interstate Domestic process. Thanks Attorney Todd! We will never forget you!
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04 Jan, 2023 by Rebecca
As a client, I highly recommend Liz and her staff. As naive, scared, impatient and much more; that I was Liz and her amazing staff were more than just my attorney. They kept me on course when I had doubt and they stayed the course. Liz, was fare and extremely upfront when it came to cost and to what "our" action plan would be. She was extremely professional, honest, and knew her stuff. She explained and educated me the pros and cons of each step we took "together" before we took the leap. I was well prepared for the good and the not so good. However, we came out way beyond I ever expected. We WON in the end. I, luckily haven't had to deal with attorneys much , but I would definitely refer, recommend, and continue to use Elizabeth Meneray Law firm. 5 ⭐️
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10 Nov, 2020 by Andrew
Liz showed genuine human empathy and fought for the truth for me. I hired her seeking custody of my children and my ex dragged it out costing me a fortune. Liz did everything that she could to not only put me in the best position for my case, but also to help alleviate the financial burden of this process. She is kind and doesn’t throw fits to argue her points like most lawyers do. She also treated me like a fellow human being rather than just a client or a number. I highly recommend her.
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27 Mar, 2019 by Jennifer
I hired Mrs. Meneray from Florida to represent me with my child custody modification case in Louisiana. I was very skeptical since I was out of state. She was not only honest but also gave me all my options prior to court. She made me feel very comfortable while facing my biggest fear. I would, without any reservation, hire her again. ABSOLUTELY AMAZING experience. Thank you for all you did for me.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Lauren
James Diamond was hired because he has a law degree, however his knowledge of the law falters greatly. He will absolutely take your money. Will he then in return do the work that money was paid to do? Nope. He also CANNOT handle being told that he is not measuring up to the level of professionalism he was hired for. These clowns will attempt to take advantage of you. Stay vigilant and don't accept GASLIGHTING from anyone, especially your own employees.
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06 Sep, 2023 by Renee
I was in need for a child family lawyer and found Jay Diamond from Diamond Law Firm. We hired Jay to help us with a custody issues. He was excellent, and was in contact with me through every step. We were so please that we hired him again to do an adoption. What a fantastic job he did to help us reach our goal. If anyone needs a great lawyer. I would highly recommend Diamond Law Firm. Thank you Jay Diamond
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16 Aug, 2023 by Catie
He was able to get my ex to break. Dealing with a narcissist is extremely difficult. He was able to navigate around my ex’s manipulative behavior and focus on what was on the line. My children’s best interest were in mind the whole way. At the end of the ordeal, I got my son back.
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22 Dec, 2017 by Devonta
He literally saved my life Josh is a spectacular and phenomenal lawyer that's genuine and sincere I would highly recommend him to anyone
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10 Jan, 2014 by Mhan
I used this firm twice and I was extremely happy with the results of my case. I'm very glad that I chose this firm to handle my particular issues.
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28 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
I went to speak to Mr. Guillory regarding a DWI that I received about 1 month prior to going in to his office. Once we started taking, I mentioned that I was involved in a horrible custody fight. I didn't realize that Josh handled child custody issues, too. I thought it was two totally different areas of the law, but he explained how much the DWI case could impact my custody case. I am so glad that I went with Josh Guillory for both cases. He and his staff really got me through a very tough period. My criminal charges were handled very much to my satisfaction, better than I ever hoped under my circumstances. My son and I have the best relationship that we have had to date. Thank you to Josh Guillory, Ms. Cindy, and everyone else in his office. I will definitely go with Josh again if I ever need a lawyer.
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28 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Doherty provided me with excellent legal care. He has been very insightful and knowledgeable while dealing with my case. My situation is a difficult one and he has shown compassion and caring towards it. Thank you, Mr. Doherty
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28 Sep, 2016 by Renee
Mr. Doherty helped us tremendously in a case involving the adoption of our children. He was compassionate, straightforward, efficient, and very knowledgeable. We were able to attain a positive outcome in our situation, thanks to his excellent representation.
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28 Sep, 2016 by Laura
Dean is a good lawyer and hard worker. He is really good communicator with his clients and is very helpful with your questions.
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23 Apr, 2019 by C. dauphin
Mr. Parks has handled several matters for myself and my husband throughout the years. He is always professional, knowledgeable, and timely. He is a wonderful person and our family relies on his expertise with many decisions....we have never been let down!
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30 Nov, 2016 by Kristi
Jessica is an amazing adoption attorney! She is genuine and caring. She helps keep you at ease throughout the process. Jessica was even willing to answer questions after the adoption.
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28 Dec, 2020 by Melissa
Our adoption was very unique. After searching for counsel, and not finding the answers we needed, I some how came across Emily. She was so full of knowledge and such a ray of hope! After talking to her, I knew that she was the attorney for us!
As soon as we hired Emily, she got to work immediately, wasting NO time at all! She was so well organized and so knowledgable of every single step to take. There was never hesitation or procrastination. Her attention to detail kept the process flowing as smooth as possible, never missing a beat.
Although she had other clients and her hands were full with planning her own wedding, she made us feel like we were her only focus. She went above and beyond, really treating our case as if it were her own. Not only did she give wise counsel, but she was so encouraging!
She gave us every reason to trust her and we were confident that she was doing everything she could for our family. With all the stress and drama that was going on in our lives, it was such a blessing not to have to worry or wonder if our attorney was doing everything she could. We were so confident that there was not another attorney out there that could do better! She REALLY is the BEST!
Emily is incredible!! We cannot say enough great things about her! She truly has a heart of gold and cares about her clients and children. Our family will forever be so grateful to Emily for fighting for us and for our little girl!
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05 Aug, 2023 by Blaine
Layne isn't just a lawyer and Heather isn’t just his assistant. They are your legal advocates and partners in / out of the court room. I had a somewhat complicated child support and family court case. I worked with other lawyers in the past and easily paid three times as much for less than stellar results. I reached out to Layne and explained my legal situation. His assistant Heather was extremely helpful and accommodating to me having to cancel several times. During a free consultation Layne explained his very fair fee structure and his approach. Layne has experience working for both the plaintiff and defendant. So, he knows how each side thinks and how to navigate the court system and judges. Layne / heather were very responsive via email and phone. Layne would break down complex legal terminology and procedures into simple understandable terms. He prepares you for what expect in court and lays out the various scenarios and options.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Kathy v
It’s clear Christopher is extremely knowledgable in his field. But what makes him such a good lawyer, is his intuition. The ability to understand something immediately, along with a strong sense of intuition, makes him a GREAT ATTORNEY. The icing on the cake - he is righteous man and conducts himself the way all attorneys should.
"we shall allow our intuition to guide us"
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24 Feb, 2020 by Jesse boclair
got me my girl
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25 Nov, 2019 by Robby peatross
04 Dec, 2018 by Ronnie abbott
24 Oct, 2020 by Sharan thomas
25 Apr, 2017 by Mario vice
11 Jul, 2024 by Nicole mayeaux
I don’t know where to start honestly, Emily Bertholl is simply one of the best. The whole salario team is wonderful. Emily worked so hard to make sure my case was handled correctly, she listened to all my concerns and helped reassure me when needed. She is incredibly sweet and helpful. Michelle the secretary is more than a secretary, she was the one who answered the phone any time I needed a question answered and was so incredibly respectful every time! We are so lucky to have gotten the chance to choose Emily here at Salario Law! Thank you to everyone!
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29 May, 2024 by Bridget messina
Emily was amazing! If u need an attorney she is definitely one u want to use. She is professional and a great person. Ty Emily for bringing our family together.
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13 Jan, 2024 by John wilson
The firm made us feel right at home, like we were family. It just felt homey talking to them, from the receptionist to the lawyer, everything went smooth. I would definitely recommend Ms. Emily to anyone, she’s just down to earth, she is very thorough in her explanations and makes you feel comfortable talking to her. She is on top of her stuff, she took all our worries away.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Angela haile
Stephen is the BEST and his services were awesome!
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19 Nov, 2024 by Deirdre batiste
The Best Attorney hands down
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29 Oct, 2024 by Lauren buckles
Louis and Diane were a pleasure to work with and were able to handle my property settlement without even having to go to court.
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22 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Mrs.Shelia does not reply in a timely manner! She handles business well while she’s defending, but doesn’t have time to reply to emails or even attend meetings and “reschedule” if you need something done in a timely manner I suggest you go with someone else! But her defending skills are great, she is a very nice person!
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30 Apr, 2019 by Misty
Sheila O’Connor is a BRILLIANT attorney, who will fight tooth and nail for the BEST INTERESTS OF YOUR CHILD. She will know your case, as if she actually lived your life. She is exceedingly knowledgeable, detail-oriented, and extremely well-prepared. After working with Sheila, I would not consider another attorney! I would give her 10 stars!
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21 Sep, 2016 by Roy d'arcangelo
I was a father in a desperate situation and needed immediate help to save my kids from an extremely abusive home. This is especially difficult (almost impossible) when the mother is the abuser. The horrible truth is that for a father to obtain custody, the extent of a mother’s neglect and abuse must be immense and the burden of proof required of the father is nearly insurmountable. After six years, two attorneys, and thousands of dollars spent with little result I nearly gave up hope for both my kids and the judicial system.
Then I found Sheila O’Connor. Within 2 days of my first consultation with Sheila my children were in my custody and within 2 weeks I had won my first hearing to keep them there. Sheila fought against the odds tirelessly, skillfully, and with a fierce determination that only comes from someone that personally invests in what they do. In the end, the mother and her husband were proven closet drug addicts who had abused and neglected my children for years. My kids are now finally safe permanently. Sheila has proven to me this is more than just a job to her. While she is undeniably a great attorney, what makes her an incredible one is her personal investment in her clients. She was standing right next to me in the middle of the night when my kids were rescued by police from their mother’s home. She guided me every step along the way, was available day and night, and ultimately put a winning case together that saved my kids.
As a father I have felt desperate, helpless, and hopeless knowing that my kids were subjected to abuse and still would lose court battles just because I simply wasn’t the mother. Sheila turned that all around because of her expertise, dedication, and unwavering determination driven by an immense care for her clients. Sheila saved my kids and I’ll thank God for her for the rest of my life. If you’re in the same situation and need help, stop reading and call her. It will be the best thing you ever did.
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13 Feb, 2025 by Tonya harmason
I live in a town called Plaquemine LA. A very corrupt town. A town where every black man is guilty in the eyes of the judicial system. A system that is ran by certain families, and a whole lot of unfairness and corruption and injustice. My nephew was arrested on a murder charge here in Plaquemine. He told his mother that he wanted John Fuller & Associates to represent him on this charge. His, mother went and retained John Fuller as his attorney. Living in a town such as Plaquemine, and knowing how corrupted the system and town is. John Fuller came to Plaquemine and he represented my nephew. He let my nephew decide his faith. When I say my Family are forever grateful and Thankful to the Fuller Law Firm. It gave me great pleasure to hear, officials in Plaquemine saying Fuller is the best.
Thank you
John Fuller and Devin Jones
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09 Feb, 2025 by Marty gibson
Paige is fast, professional, and understanding. Couldn’t ask for a better experience!
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07 Feb, 2025 by Alberta jarreau
01 Oct, 2018 by Sallee
Greg has handled multiple issues for me and I couldn't be happier with the service.
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03 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I found myself in a horrible custody situation that I wouldn't wish upon my worst enemy and I needed an attorney ASAP. When GREG takes a case on he lives and breathes it. He knows the law inside and out, I can say without a doubt he is one of the smartest attorneys around. He is sympathetic to your situation, but most importantly he cares, and he isn't afraid to do the right thing and never backs down. If you want a bulldog with a heart of gold you want him.
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22 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Did everything he said. Kept me informed throughout the case.
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14 May, 2024 by Lavinsky thompson
Wonderful Person, He Gets The Job Done
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18 Feb, 2024 by Pressureman714
He's a real crook and will take your money and leave you hanging
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24 Jan, 2024 by Edmond bacchus iii
Showed up twice to court cost me 12k got the same amount of time,overrated
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04 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Atty Coleman gave her opinion based on the information provided. She was prompt and knowledgeable.
I will be contacting her for a consultation.
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23 May, 2024 by Jo depew
27 Dec, 2023 by Kathleen romero
Both kind and professional. If they were not sure of something you ask they will find out the up to date answer you need.👍👍
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15 Nov, 2022 by Richard bujol
Best lawyers in Lafayette.
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19 Nov, 2020 by Tyisha milton
19 Jun, 2018 by Carol kinney
Very professional and very knowledgeable about everything.
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30 Oct, 2023 by Henry ward
08 Jun, 2020 by Eric house
Good people
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26 Apr, 2020 by Pumpkin smile
25 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I had to give all 5 stars for Mr. Bill Godley and his staff. I’d give 10 if I could. I needed help and I sure got it. What started out a tragedy became a victory for me and my children. Mr.Godley took real interest in my children’s well being. As a mother that meant a lot.
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21 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Godley has been incredible handling my matter. He is truly a one-of-a-kind attorney in that he goes above and beyond for you, he listens, he is polite, he is encouraging, and absolutely looks out for your best interest. He does not see dollar signs when he sees you, he sees you as a human being and cares. You don't find that in an attorney these days. Thank you Mr. Godley for being you and making sure that my matter was handled with care. Your the best.
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20 May, 2019 by Steve
Thank you Mr. Godley !! You and your staff took such good care of my family. You all seemed to really care about us and that meant a lot. I appreciated your honesty and being able to do it economically was a real plus. I will recommend you to anyone who needs an good and honest attorney.
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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.
