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19 Sep, 2024 by Leroy and linda
Judy Sartain was highly recommended to us in the middle of a two-year drawn-out custody proceeding that didn't seem to be working in our favor. As soon as Judy and her team were hired, they worked tirelessly to ensure our legal goals were met and that our Grand babies were afforded the opportunity to have a chance at a life that would allow them to prosper. Legal fees were expensive but worth the outcome! Her team was professional, responsive and prepared! She exceeded my expectations and provided every option to a desired end and success for my Family. Today I rest easy and am postured to allow my Grandbabies to enjoy a good life. A big thanks to Judy, Stephanie and the entire team.
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01 Aug, 2024 by James
We tasked Judy with a nearly impossible task, and she was innovative and aggressive on our behalf. Judy is a fighter, a winner, and an ally who knows adoption and juvenile courts better than anyone. I recommend her with the highest praise I can possibly give.
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15 May, 2024 by Ryan
We hired Judy and her team at Stearns-Montgomery & Proctor to handle the adoption process for my step-son. Judy and her team were hard-working and professional. I would highly recommend them to anyone going through the adoption process. Thanks!
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06 Aug, 2021 by Robin
Josie and her assistant Stacy are the best hands down! They kept us in the loop the whole process start to finish. If I had a question they were very proactive to respond quickly. We just finished with finalization yesterday and received communication all in the same day! I would highly recommend Josie to everyone that is looking for an adoption lawyer. The best part was knowing all the costs up front and not being surprised with a huge bill at the end.
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12 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
We could not be more pleased with the services that Josie Redwine and her staff provided to us. We had an extremely difficult and lengthy case and her expertise was key in helping us. She was a true professional in everything thing she did and was also very personable and caring. We could not ask for anyone better. We would highly recommend her!
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10 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Redwine took on our adoption case when previous counsel was failing to assure the custody of our children to us from the hospital. She worked quickly and set the proper course of action. She was very diligent in reviewing the previous counsel's work and found many errors that could have possibly threatened the permanency of the adoption in the future if someone would have chosen to contest it. We are grateful that we hired Ms. Redwine when we did as her knowledge and familiarity with the whole process turned a potential huge problem into a much more manageable situation.
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25 Apr, 2017 by Todd
My wife and I worked with Suzanne during a custody and child support modification that my ex-wife filed around the time when the previous poster who chose to remain "Anonymous" commented and gave a one-star rating. To that poster - you know your case better than anyone else including your attorney and if you catch something in a draft document that your attorney didn't - so what. It's your case so you should be reading the documents, catching things, and making changes/suggestions too. If there is something that is important to you, then stick to your guns. Don't blame your attorney because something that they might not view as important in the grand scheme of the case may be very important to you for some particular reason. So communicate that to you, it is important and why it is such and recognize that sometimes it is easier to give on something if it means you can move on.
For me, I was extremely pleased with Suzanne on everything from responsiveness, timeliness, counseling within the legal guidelines, documenting, settling, and finalizing the entire custody and child support modification. In working with Suzanne, I felt that it was a team effort - my wife and I had our role, Suzanne had hers, and we coordinated on everything in between - strategy, ideas, negotiating points, documentation, etc. She is very direct, engaging, and is very timely in her responses and turnaround time. My only regret is that I didn't have Suzanne as the attorney for my divorce and the first modification. Thanks, Suzanne.
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29 Apr, 2015 by Jamie
Me and my wife recently finalized an adoption with Ms. Prescott. We initially started the process with another lawyer and was getting no where. My wife located Ms. Prescott and gave her a call. From the very first meeting we felt very comfortable with her and she was very excited to work our case. There were some snags along the way but not from their doing. There were several waiting periods on certain things but her office stayed on top of them and communicated what was going on when we asked and even when we didn't. The adoption was very sensitive and Suzanne made sure certain things were not mentioned to our daughter. Really and truly we just kind of sat back and cruised through the whole process. I am now the daddy to two beautiful children and have Suzanne and her great office staff to thank!!!!
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07 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Prescott made my divorce quick and easy. I felt I could tell her important details without trepidation or judgement. She is very quick to respond and was available to me beyond traditional business hours and across multiple modes of communication. Ms. Prescott's knowledge and expertise gave me confidence during a very difficult time. I feel that she has my (and my child's) best interest at heart and I am very happy and satisfied with the results of my case. She was very clear and communicative throughout the entire process and to top it all off, has a great sense of humor. In the time I have been a client, I have referred several people to her to retain her services.
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01 Jun, 2024 by William
Damon and Suzanne were phenomenal to work with as our family in going through a very tough circumstance. They were empathic, tenacious, and understanding.
They were not just collecting a pay day, they cared about the outcome for our family, and they celebrated with us after guiding the process to close and a big victory in a way we did not believe was even possible.
Could not recommend the firm more. If you a phenomenal family law firm, look no further.
Thank you so much!
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01 Jun, 2017 by Sabina
I am so impressed with Mr. Bivek. He is a "cut to the chase" kind of attorney who is incredibly knowledgeable, but more importantly he's sharp. He knows what you need, how you need it, when you need it and will help you make it happen. He's a bright light in a seemingly dark tunnel of paperwork and procedure. I'm just glad I found him to assist me in my divorce.
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16 Jun, 2016 by Robert
My experience with Damon Bivek was excellent. Divorce is a difficult thing, Damon was professional, responsive and efficient. My experience couldn't have been better. His experience and demeanor helped me deal with the matter in a dignified and positive way. I would highly recommend this lawyer to anyone facing a divorce.
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07 Sep, 2020 by Martin
My husband and I ran into some very difficult legal complications 1 week before our adopted-baby-to-be was born due to our status as Canadians living in the US on work visas. Although we had satisfied all the requirements to adopt, we were notified at the last minute that due to recent changes in adoption law, our adoption would be considered international (despite living in California since 2016 and purchasing a home a week before this took place). The agency handling our adoption told us they could no longer help us and recommended finding an international adoption lawyer.
Along came Irene, who right from the start was reassuring, friendly, and professional. Irene took up our cause and reached out to the agency that dropped us and convinced them to have their legal team collaborate with her to create a case for the courts that argued in our favor. Irene is someone you want in your corner because she has a lot of friends in high places, many of whom she contacted in order to streamline our case. After working with Irene for just 3 weeks, and only 2 weeks after the birth of our son, we were able to take him home with us to California.
Since our return, Irene continues to check in on our son. The cost of her services is remarkably inexpensive for the expertise, compassion, and resourcefulness that Irene brings to the table. Thank you "Auntie" Irene - we will forever be in your debt!!!
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09 Feb, 2015 by James
I am returning to the States after 10 years of living abroad in Costa Rica. I am a US citizen but I am bringing my wife and daughter from Coast Rica with me. Irene is assisting us in this process. She has provided to date excellent services. She is extremely knowledgeable of the process and makes us all feel at ease with her professional handling of our petitions. I would highly recommend Irene Steffas for your needs in the area of immigration.
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27 Jan, 2015 by Mj
My husband and I, in a very round about way, found ourselves embarking on a journey adoption from Sint Maarten, a country with no current path to adoption. We found out mid way through we needed to work through a Hague approved attorney or agency. There were no agencies working in Sint Maarten so we immediately started looking for an attorney. We are SO happy we were able to find Irene and her team. Irene was VERY frank from the get go. She didn't sugarcoat anything which we appreciated so much. We had been told this and that and were given false hope a lot throughout this process and were very discouraged, so to have someone so open and honest about the hurdles we would need to get through was so refreshing. Irene was able to outline all of the steps her team would take to see this through. She was open with the fact that it wasn't a sure deal, but that they would take steps to analyze the entire situation before moving us forward and would do anything in their power to help us adopt these boys. They have taken point on some of the paperwork and processes that were bogging us down and causing a lot of frustration, she and her team clearly know how to navigate the adoption legal system. They've always kept in tight communication throughout the entire process. I've never felt like I can't reach out to Irene directly if I had questions and she has always been so responsive (along with her team). Our adoption isn't complete yet, but things are looking good. I would absolutely recommend Irene to anyone who is looking to adopt, especially in a situation where you may be paving the way. It's clear she is passionate about her work and her clients and I will be ever grateful we made the choice to partner with her and her team in this process.
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25 Feb, 2021 by Bonnie
My sister died unexpectedly and without a will. We live in Pennsylvania and definitely needed legal help. After reviewing lawyers with top ratings in Cobb County, I contacted three lawyers by email. Steve Worrall responded in 2 hours. One of the other lawyers contacted me days later, and the third not at all. The initial contact was not just a legal one, but also one saying how sorry for our loss in a genuine way. Steve was able to meet with us and offer help during the limited time we could spend in Georgia. Once in Pennsylvania, any questions we had were responded to by Steve or Karen in a speedy manner. Worrall Law is tip top in my book. They made this awful time one in which I felt legally and personally supported.
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01 Sep, 2020 by Susan
I can't say enough good things about Steve, Karen and Georgia Estate Plan. They have helped my family to navigate a very challenging time of executing my father's estate after he passed away this year. Steve has been there to answer all of my questions and guide me through all of the unknowns. They also guided us through building an estate plan for our family, making the process clear and convenient. Steve came highly recommended by a close friend, and I can see why! We would recommend Georgia Estate Plan to any friends and family that need guidance in these sometimes challenging areas.
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28 Jan, 2019 by Lawson
Having been involved last year in settling a relatives' estate with nothing more than a software generated, one-size-fits-all Will, we knew we wanted something more comprehensive than that for our Estate. Additionally, we needed a clear, objective comparison of Trusts vs Wills, and which would be the best fit for us. After attending some local attorneys' introductory/free-lunch seminars, we felt far more comfortable working with Steve Worrall at Georgia Estate Plan. Without a doubt we made the right choice. We could not have completed the complex process of generating an all-inclusive Estate Plan that addresses potential issues without Steve and Karen's guidance and expertise.
Going forward, this will be our family's "go-to" law firm.
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02 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Attorney Heather Logan is the best! Heather and her staff were dedicated to helping me navigate through a difficult time with compassion and wisdom. Heather kept me grounded; she helped me see the path forward when I could not. She was always prepared and I was her sole focus during our meetings. She was patient, professional, honest and approachable throughout the entire experience. I was grateful to have a strong coach and ally during a tumultuous time.
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21 Sep, 2022 by Cesar colon chardon
Mrs. Logan from the first day to the completion of my divorce was excellent. A true Professional! She gave true advice and explained in the detail and in language I could understand, the process. Should I need the service of a Family Attorney in the future, Mrs. Logan is my choice. I definitely recommend her.
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09 Jul, 2020 by Nicholas
Heather was amazing. She helped me throughout an extremely difficult time. She was on top of everything and made sure I received what was fair to me in my divorce. I highly recommend her.
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24 Jul, 2020 by Evered
These last few years in have been dealing with hostage situation in the form of my Ex wife who choose to leave our marital home with our child. My previous representation IS a wreck and I had to find someone that actually could do the job.
Gina not only provided patience, logical standpoints and understanding but she also treated me like a person and not just a case or an income. Given the trash heap I brought to her in the form of my case, she did the best that she could to help clean up. She is not afraid to stand up and represent you and deflect wrong doing or poor decisions that could damage your life worse than it currently could be. If I would have stuck with my previous representation I honestly believe that I would not even have a chance to see my daughter at all.
If you want someone who will have your best interest in mind when it comes to you as a person in need, Gina and her staff are hands down the team you need.
Any other choice is putting yourself at risk.
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05 May, 2018 by Johan
A divorce is a stressful process and feeling alone and vulnerable is common. I chose Gina Grady for my support and Gina and her team helped me through the trying times. I give Her my warmest recommendations.
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30 Mar, 2018 by John
Gina Grady of this lawy firm recently represented me for a case involving a divorce with children. She helped me settle this divorce, get a contempt against the children’s other parent for refusing visitation and in the end I got custody of my children because of their previously unstable living environment.
Both the firm and Mrs Grady were very professional and very responsive. They allowed me to do as much leg work as I could to help with the case and Mrs Grady would use all resources available, including conferring with other attorneys at the firm, to ensure that everything was handled and accurately and proficiently as possible.
If I have any more legal matters requiring an attorney with this case, I will be coming back to this law firm to assist me in getting it handled.
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21 Mar, 2019 by Wes
Courtney and her Team were AMAZING in my divorce process. No divorce process is easy, but if you want the BEST, retain Courtney and she will get you the best outcome!
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15 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Assisted me during a very stressful time in my life. Also efficiently handled a high conflict case against my child's other parent.
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13 Oct, 2017 by Rick
Ms. Carpenter was able to reduce the alimony I had been paying from $2400/mo to $0! Her attention to the details was impressive. I’ve got an attorney!
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12 Jan, 2015 by Joujou
Mrs. Jessica Gordon is a very trust-worthy person and very professional. Before I met her, I had no idea where to take my case. I had been to three different lawyers, all of whom were unable to help me. Mrs. Gordon helped me conclude my case, and it ended very successfully.
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18 Dec, 2014 by Sharon
Ms. Gordon assisted me in adopting my Mexican stepson in August 2012. We had certain time restraints that we had to meet and she worked very hard to meet those conditions which ended in the successful adoption of my son.
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10 Dec, 2014 by Marina
Jessica did outstanding job in getting green card for an international orphan with health problems.
Thanks to her my not adopted daugther can continue medical treatment without a fear being deported.
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29 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Nancy Syrop represented me in a painful divorce. She was very patient as she worked with me. I explained my situation and she listened. My papers were filed and things were completed with such professional efficiency. Nancy made sure I always knew what to expect each step of the way. I have recommended her to others and will continue to do so. She is an exceptional person as well as a great lawyer.
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26 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Nancy Syrop is a professional and thorough lawyer. She was responsive to my calls and emails, and she knew all the details of my case. She was prepared and fought for me, and I am very pleased with the results. She was very fair in her billing, and hiring her was money well spent. I would highly recommend Nancy Syrop for your legal needs.
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27 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
After misrepresentation by a previous counsel, Ms. Syrop took over my case providing me the advice and counsel necessary to be successful in a contentious custody battle. She understood and studied my case so well. I felt she understood not only the legal ramifications of my situation, but also the pain I was and had been experiencing. At all times she maintained a professional countenance. I was impressed by how she focused on the well being of my children, and not only my personal circumstances. Through every stage of the legal process, I felt comfortable with, and confident in, her counsel.
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02 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I called Saeed and explained my traffic ticket; unlike the other lawyers who wanted me to hire them immediately and pay them up front. Saeed advised me that my traffic ticket was a simple expiry of tag and that i should be able to pay the fine without paying thousands to any lawyer. He was more of a physician watching out for the best interest of his client instead of a businessman looking out for the best for himself. I can not thank him enough for giving the best advice in a simple and understandable language. I highly recommend Saeed for his principles and practise of law.
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04 Sep, 2012 by Mitch
Saeed is a fantastic attorney and just a genuinely caring guy. His office is in a very nice area, and conveniently located. He spent more time with me than I've ever experienced from an attorney, and he was quick to find answers to all my questions. He handled my case extremely efficiently, and even made me laugh a couple times.
I'd recommend Mr. Mahallati to anyone. I actually picked up a stack of his cards because lawyers like him will actually give lawyers a good name.
Also, he speaks various languages. If you're in the market for a Persian / Iranian speaking attorney, then he's your guy.
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11 Dec, 2010 by Jason
This guy was the only honest guy that I talked to about my situation. He told me exactly what would happen and helped me through it. He was very professional and knowledgeable. I would most certainly recommend him to anyone needing legal services.
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14 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
Litigation is never pleasant in anyone's life, however, having had Stacy Ingle as my attorney during a 2 year family law modification case made it easier. Stacy has excellent attention to detail and is very organized and responsive. I trusted her completely as she helped me manage through a very difficult case. She is professional, honest, responsive and trustworthy. She was frugal with her time and I never once felt like she wasted time & effort to charge me more and always was concerned about my financial best interest as well. She seems to have good rapport with the legal community and always handles herself with professionalism. I would use Stacy again if I needed a lawyer and would highly recommend Stacy to anyone. She gets the job done and will not let you down!
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03 Mar, 2023 by Ash husak
Just I want to know.more about the practice, seems like a good and powerful , professional attorney
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03 Feb, 2023 by Ralph clark
At the age of Nineteen, I made some incredibly bad decisions and was facing possible prison time. Thank GOD, I was blessed with a second chance. Mr. Woodman is the best defense attorney around.
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29 Jan, 2020 by Jason butler
I have been blessed to have Mr. Woodman as my Attorney, so I speak from a experience that one could not find a better, more capable, kind Attorney to handle significant matters on your behalf. I am grateful that he took the time to assist me in life...and yes he cares a great deal! He comes up with brilliant ideas to handle the situation.
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05 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Jeanette and her office staff are great. They handled my matter effectively, tactfully, and quickly.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
So thankful that I ended up working with Jeanette and she explained why a Post Nuptial Agreement would be more beneficial in my specific case than going straight to divorce. I didn't quite get it when she proposed it but looking back what a relief I went her route.
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12 Mar, 2021 by Andrea
I had a dispute related to covid protections and my shared custody of my two children. When my ex refused to coordinate or even talk about important issues and my divorce decree was unclear, I had no choice but to hire legal help for an arbitration. Jeanette Soltys approached this contentious situation with calm, professional precision and neatly avoided escalating the already-excessive family drama. Her main concern was restoring a positive coparenting situation and building a foundation for parental collaboration in the future with better legal solutions than had been written in my divorce decree. My divorce had been self-filed, but if I’d known how much difficulty that would cause me now, I’d have worked with Jeanette on the initial decree and I believe she would have had to foresight to ensure a post-divorce problem like mine wouldn’t have happened.
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13 Apr, 2024 by Mom
I cannot speak highly enough of Jordan Hendrick for his exceptional expertise and dedication throughout my child support contempt case. From the very first consultation, it was clear that he possesses a profound understanding of family law and a genuine compassion for his clients.
Jordan took on my case that was more challenging than it should have been, yet he handled it with remarkable skill and determination. His no-nonsense, straightforward approach was refreshing, coupled with his unwavering commitment to securing the best possible outcome for my case.
Throughout this difficult time, Jordan provided clear guidance, a meticulous attention to detail, and a sense of reassurance that I greatly appreciate. His ability to balance legal prowess with heartfelt empathy truly sets him apart.
I must also mention his amazing paralegal, Danielle, whose organizational skills and attention to detail were invaluable throughout the process. Together with the supportive office staff, they created a team that was truly remarkable.
What truly impressed me was Jordan’s ability to manage my very difficult ex-husband with grace and professionalism. He listened attentively to my concerns, offered insightful advice, and ensured that every aspect of my case was thoroughly addressed.
Thanks to Jordan and his exceptional team, I not only received the support my children deserved but also a sense of closure and peace of mind. I wholeheartedly recommend Jordan Hendrick and Abernathy Ditzel Hendrick, LLC to anyone in need of a brilliant legal mind, a compassionate advocate, and a team that goes above and beyond. Thank you, Jordan, for truly making a difference in my life and the lives of my children.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Erin williams
Jeremy Abernathy was referred to me by another attorney and I could not be happier with the outcome of my custody case. My case was a bit difficult and throughout the whole process, I always felt as if my sons livelihood and best interests came first. He fought tooth and nail for us and stuck to his guns both in and out of the courtroom. He is going to do what's best for you, your children, and your case to make sure you get the best possible outcome-and will do it in the most professional manner. He showed his expertise and at times if I was a bit difficult, he brought me back down, reassured me, and even prayed for me which I greatly appreciated. He explained everything to me and made sure I understood properly. He showed up to court very well-prepared, organized, well-spoken and professional but will also go toe to toe with aggressive opposing counsel or opposing parties if needed, and it made me feel as if he was really looking out for my son and I and fighting for what's right. There were times, even after-hours and weekends, when I needed guidance on how to approach situations with the opposing party and he was very responsive and didn't make me feel like I was a bother. He's very rational, fair and won't let you fail in the courtroom for having your own personal expectations that may be unrealistic. He made me feel heard and that he cared. Based on personal observation, he is also very well respected by his peers as well as the judge that we had. I would recommend Jeremy to anyone going through a legitimation and custody case. I can imagine Family Law to be very tough but he is definitely very knowledgeable and well-equipped to handle you and your case with the utmost professionalism and care.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Jessica ellis
18 Sep, 2019 by Marvel
When you have child custody issues, call Christine Triebsch asap! From our first conversation, her interest and attentiveness to my case earned my trust. As my ex and her attorney were very difficult people to deal with, Christine's professionalism and experience outperformed that drama. As long as you are thorough and honest regarding your case details, Christine will provide you with ALL of the best options for the best outcome. She will definitely be a part of the relationship between my daughter and I. If you want your parental rights protected, Call CHRISTINE TRIEBSCH today!!!
Thanks Christine for all that you did!!!!
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24 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Chris was amazing!! I had a year long divorce proceeding she was very persistent and accommodating. She was very compassionate and caring. Anytime I needed her she was in contact with me with a matter of mins to the next day at the latest. We were awarded everything I was asking for as well as primary custody of my children. I would highly recommend Chris.
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06 Jul, 2016 by Melanie
Ms. Triebsch handled my divorce through ARAG legal in 2014. She was professional and very supportive in the process, especially when it came to the courtroom portion. I would highly recommend using her services. I didn't choose to go through a divorce, but her help minimized the negative effects.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Greg
Amy and paralegal Corbyn were very helpful getting 2 more important court wins for my ongoing interminable family estate dispute against a weasel like executor with a CPA pulling tricks left and right. So review at 4.5 because always room for improvement a few missteps etc.
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10 Dec, 2021 by Phil
I hired Amy in April of 2021. She was incredible and saved me from making serious mistakes when I was overwhelmed in a terrible situation. There were a couple of people deceiving law enforcement in multiple ways to get me into serious trouble. Without her, they would have succeeded. I would recommend her to any family or friend that was in need of a lawyer. Hire her and listen to her!
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30 Jun, 2021 by Kim
Amy is a passionate, dedicated, and professional lawyer. She made the process as easy and painless as possible. Amy was thorough with her work and made sure my questions were addressed in a timely manner. She is the only lawyer I would trust to handle my divorce.
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.6
103 Reviews
30 Aug, 2024 by Linda zeng
"I highly recommend Mr Sean for anyone in need of a compassionate and highly skilled family law attorney. Sean and Michelle were incredibly knowledgeable about the legal aspects of my case and provided clear, actionable advice every step of the way.
If you are looking for a family law attorney who combines legal acumen with genuine care for their clients, look no further than Sean. Thanks again .
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21 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
What a great experience working with Attorney Sean Whitworth. He is extremely knowledgeable and went above and beyond to help me at such a low time in my life. I would highly recommend Attorney Sean Whitworth and his team.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Thomas schwalenberg
Michelle & Sean did a great job navigating my Case and getting to a Settlement. They communicated very well and I felt like my Concerns were Heard and Applied. I would recommend them in the Future. Thank you guys!
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31 May, 2022 by Anonymous
We had a complicated family business and Gina really helped me with my asset distribution from a family business. Very grateful.
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08 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired Gina for custody modification but from the beginning she made false promises and mistakes .
I felt misinformed and manipulated into a prolong court process which has financially devasted me and my young kids. My kids are still being abused but now we are even poorer than before thanks to Gina and her office. I am absolutely heartbroken and suffering but instead of admitting her defeat and faults she threatened me with a lawsuit and collections. Please choose someone else as your attorney so you don't suffer like us.
Heartbroken mom.
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15 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired her in Feb 2018 and from the beginning I felt she was a good lawyer and responded to me quickly. Hopefully when it got to working on a settlement agreement for parenting time , she was all for my exhusband having 1/2 of the parenting time in TWO DIFFERENT COUNTIES! I had to find another lawyer that was gonig to take my side all the way to the courtroom!
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10 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Despite coming highly reviewed, I was extremely disappointed with her lack of objectivity. She did not consider all the facts and information that was presented to her by several parties. She made a very skewed recommendation that sided with a sub par parent. By all means, do your research and choose your lawyer carefully.
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07 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
Case assigned to underling who could not hold her own for the client in a negotiation with a high school drop out. Often wondered if she was representing the person I paid her to represent or the lazy convicted meth manufacturer she should have been defending her client against. Would never recommend her and the cost was extreme.
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12 Feb, 2013 by L. a. br
She did absolutley nothing to help my case. She just pushed papers. She didn't look out for my best interest or offer ideas of what I was entitled to during my divorce. Thus my kids ended up with little child support and I ended up with no spousal support even though I stayed home with my kids for close to eleven years. We are now hurting desperately for money to live. I personal paid $6,000 for the divorce and ended up paying over $40,000 to go back to school to earn enough of a living to be able to support my children. I am in serious debt now. My ex walked away with everything because Ms. Boga didn't know my rights nor did she fight for my children.
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What an Adoption Lawyer Can Do for You
An adoption lawyer specializes in navigating the legal complexities of the adoption process, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved - the adoptive parents, birth parents, and the child - are protected. They assist families through the different types of adoption, such as domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, and private adoptions. Adoption lawyers ensure that the adoption process complies with state, federal, and international laws, and handle any legal issues that may arise during the process, such as terminating parental rights, conducting home studies, and finalizing the adoption.
If you're looking to adopt or if you're a birth parent considering placing your child for adoption, an adoption lawyer can guide you through the legal requirements and ensure the process goes smoothly.
When Should I Hire an Adoption Lawyer?
You should consider hiring an adoption lawyer in the following situations:
- Private or independent adoption: If you’re adopting a child directly from the birth parents without the involvement of an adoption agency, a lawyer is essential to draft and review all legal documents, including consent forms and parental rights termination agreements.
- Foster care adoption: If you’re adopting a child from foster care, a lawyer can help navigate the legal process, ensure the child’s eligibility for adoption, and represent you in court to finalize the adoption.
- Stepparent or relative adoption: If you’re adopting a stepchild or a relative, a lawyer can assist in terminating the parental rights of the biological parent and ensure the adoption is completed legally and efficiently.
- International adoption: International adoptions are complex, involving multiple layers of laws from the U.S. and the child’s birth country. A lawyer can help navigate immigration requirements and ensure compliance with international treaties like the Hague Convention.
- Contested adoptions: If a birth parent changes their mind about the adoption or there is a dispute over parental rights, a lawyer can represent you in court and ensure that the adoption proceeds legally.
- Adoption for same-sex couples: If you're a same-sex couple looking to adopt, a lawyer can help ensure that your adoption complies with state laws and that both parents have equal legal rights to the child.
- Birth parent representation: If you’re a birth parent considering adoption, a lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, help you understand the legal implications of terminating parental rights, and ensure that your decision is legally sound.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help avoid legal complications and ensure that the adoption is legally finalized as smoothly as possible.
What Does an Adoption Lawyer Do?
An adoption lawyer provides a variety of legal services, ensuring that the adoption process is completed in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing legal paperwork: Adoption lawyers handle all the necessary paperwork, including petitions to terminate parental rights, consent forms, and final adoption decrees. They ensure that the adoption is in line with state, federal, and international laws.
- Conducting home studies: Some adoptions require a home study to evaluate the prospective adoptive family. While a social worker usually conducts the study, a lawyer can ensure that the process complies with legal requirements and that the report is submitted correctly.
- Terminating parental rights: Lawyers assist in terminating the legal rights of the biological parents, either voluntarily through signed consent or involuntarily through court proceedings if necessary.
- Representing clients in court: Adoption lawyers represent adoptive parents, birth parents, or other parties in court hearings to finalize the adoption or resolve disputes.
- Navigating international adoption laws: For international adoptions, a lawyer helps ensure that all legal requirements, both in the U.S. and the child’s home country, are met, including securing the child’s visa and citizenship.
- Providing legal advice: Adoption lawyers guide clients through each step of the adoption process, advising them on their rights and obligations, as well as any potential legal issues that may arise.
- Drafting post-adoption agreements: In some cases, especially open adoptions, a lawyer can help draft post-adoption agreements that specify the level of contact between the adoptive and birth parents.
How Are Adoption Lawyers Paid?
Adoption lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the adoption and the time involved. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many adoption lawyers charge a flat fee for handling the entire adoption process. This is common for straightforward adoptions, such as stepparent or foster care adoptions, where the legal work is relatively predictable.
- Hourly rate: For more complex adoptions, such as contested or international adoptions, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: In cases where the adoption process may take longer or involve more legal work (e.g., termination of parental rights or court disputes), a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, so you understand the total cost of the adoption and any additional expenses that may arise during the process.
How Much Does an Adoption Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an adoption lawyer depends on the type of adoption and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:
- Stepparent or relative adoption: Legal fees for these types of adoptions typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on whether the adoption is contested or requires a court hearing.
- Domestic private adoption: The legal fees for a private adoption usually range from $5,000 to $10,000, including drafting documents, terminating parental rights, and finalizing the adoption in court.
- International adoption: International adoptions are generally more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the adoption and the child’s country of origin.
- Contested adoption: If the adoption is contested and involves court disputes, legal fees may range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the length and complexity of the court proceedings.
In addition to lawyer fees, adoptive parents should also be aware of additional costs such as court filing fees, home study fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
Top Questions to Ask an Adoption Lawyer
Before hiring an adoption lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
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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.
