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15 Mar, 2022 by May ann
Attorney Kathy Erickson is a professional on every level. She is fair, upfront, honest and sincere. She handled my case with the highest concern for myself and my child. Her knowledge about the legal system is unparalleled and her compassion and understanding for her clients is profound. It's rare to find a lawyer who not only represents you well, but has a natural ability to connect with you on a personal level. That understanding is crucial in achieving the best outcome possible for all involved.
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16 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Kathy Erickson's experience with problematic personalities helped me confirm my suspicions that I had married a covert and manipulative abuser. She accurately predicted my ex's behaviors during the divorce process and helped me navigate a minefield of control tactics and protect my children. Kathy's investigative and documentation skills ultimately helped me expose my ex's true character to the court. I highly recommend her to anyone who is trying to defend their children from an abusive parent.
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14 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
After three and a half years with a large family law firm and my ex spouse successfully getting continuance after continuance I was referred to Kathy. What a blessing! She watched over me like a mother bear over her cub. I simply couldn’t be happier with her handling of my case and it’s ultimate outcome! Exceptionally strong work! I highly recommend Kathy!
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09 Dec, 2024 by Lauren cuddihee
If you’re familiar with Exodus, Camille is my Moses. When I first met Camille, I was a scared, shaking, shell of myself with only enough hope left to pursue a consultation. I came to Camille with so many misunderstandings about family law and I felt so trapped by what I had been told elsewhere. She corrected my misunderstandings with the perfect combination of comfort and authority to help me see all the different paths forward we could take. Camille had the experience and knowledge to confidently guide me through each step of the way. My fears became less and less powerful with each successful push forward, and my divorce ended in not only a great settlement with my children and I taken care of, but also a promising co-parenting relationship with my former husband and the ability to get along when we’re together with our kids. Camille was the best defense and best partner to lead me through the hardest season of my life. I love my new life so much and I can’t imagine having even a fraction of what I have now without her. She got me through this time so strategically and with so much sensitivity, no one else could have done for me what she did.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Rebekah e. daily
We had the good fortune to engage Carissa Galvan to represent us in a family matter. What a wonderful experience! Carissa is knowledgeable, kind, understanding, and responsive to our contact with her. You absolutely can't go wrong with Carissa.
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11 Nov, 2024 by A stephens
Carissa helped my wife and I adopt our daughter. As an LGBTQ+ couple, it can be scary to take on something like this in a red state, however she streamlined the process, fought for us, educated us, and ultimately got everything done in less then a years time. Couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer for my family during such an emotional time. Would recommend time and time again. Also want to shout out her legal assistant, Ashley C., she is always on top of everything, very responsive and extremely knowledgeable. Thanks again Carissa & Ashley!!
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4.8
17 Reviews
4.5
123 Reviews
25 Oct, 2024 by Brian mai
Mr. Voyles responded to my inquiry in a very timely manner, I appreciated that he took time to listen and understand my inquiry completely before giving his legal advice. I am impressed with his legal knowledge and professionalism, and would wholeheartedly recommend him!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Andrew l.
After paying a total of $300 for two consultations, 15-min each, at a different law firm and not receiving sufficient guidance on how to move forward with my situation regarding a real estate matter, I decided to continue my search in finding what I deemed to be adequate legal counsel.
Therefore, I conducted an online search and came across the Law Office of Bradley Voyles. His reviews seemed extraordinary, and I was eager to give his office a call in hopes of setting up an appointment to speak with him as soon as he was available to meet with me.
When I called his office, I was hoping I would be able to quickly pay my consultation fees and schedule an appointment with Mr. Voyles to have my issues addressed within the next 1-2 weeks or so. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find out from his receptionist that although Mr. Voyles was currently in court at the time of my call, I was promised he would call me back later that same day to go over my concerns.
From the moment I called Mr. Voyles's office, I was immediately impressed at how courteous his staff was, and in how responsive Mr. Voyles was in getting back to me in the same day. I was not expecting this level of service at all!
Furthermore, when I called his office, I was surprised that at no time during the call were consultation fees ever brought up. Usually law offices want to charge your credit card lots of $$$ before you can even just say, "hello" to an attorney. But this was not the case here. I genuinely felt like Mr. Voyles and his staff's primary concern was just immediately addressing my concerns and nothing more.
In fact, when Mr. Voyles called me, he spoke to me for over 40 minutes. He also asked me to email him documentation and real estate contracts regarding some of the matters I discussed with him, and after wrapping up our conversation, he still never asked for any consultation fees.
I'm honestly in awe at how patient Mr. Voyles was with me during the call and with how informative he had been. The level of legal service I was provided by him was unparalleled to anything I've received elsewhere. I honestly cannot see myself entertaining another law firm on any related legal matters, just based off the recent experiences I've had with Mr. Voyles and his staff.
Mr. Voyles, this is how you create relationships that are mutually beneficial between the attorney and client! Thank you so much for everything you've done to help me!
Sincerely,
Andrew L.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Michelle gell
Bradley Voyles was very informative. He helped me understand what was and wasn’t needed in our current situation and also shared what we could do to ease issues when our children have to deal with our estate.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Brian mai
Mr. Voyles responded to my inquiry in a very timely manner, I appreciated that he took time to listen and understand my inquiry completely before giving his legal advice. I am impressed with his legal knowledge and professionalism, and would wholeheartedly recommend him!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Andrew l.
After paying a total of $300 for two consultations, 15-min each, at a different law firm and not receiving sufficient guidance on how to move forward with my situation regarding a real estate matter, I decided to continue my search in finding what I deemed to be adequate legal counsel.
Therefore, I conducted an online search and came across the Law Office of Bradley Voyles. His reviews seemed extraordinary, and I was eager to give his office a call in hopes of setting up an appointment to speak with him as soon as he was available to meet with me.
When I called his office, I was hoping I would be able to quickly pay my consultation fees and schedule an appointment with Mr. Voyles to have my issues addressed within the next 1-2 weeks or so. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find out from his receptionist that although Mr. Voyles was currently in court at the time of my call, I was promised he would call me back later that same day to go over my concerns.
From the moment I called Mr. Voyles's office, I was immediately impressed at how courteous his staff was, and in how responsive Mr. Voyles was in getting back to me in the same day. I was not expecting this level of service at all!
Furthermore, when I called his office, I was surprised that at no time during the call were consultation fees ever brought up. Usually law offices want to charge your credit card lots of $$$ before you can even just say, "hello" to an attorney. But this was not the case here. I genuinely felt like Mr. Voyles and his staff's primary concern was just immediately addressing my concerns and nothing more.
In fact, when Mr. Voyles called me, he spoke to me for over 40 minutes. He also asked me to email him documentation and real estate contracts regarding some of the matters I discussed with him, and after wrapping up our conversation, he still never asked for any consultation fees.
I'm honestly in awe at how patient Mr. Voyles was with me during the call and with how informative he had been. The level of legal service I was provided by him was unparalleled to anything I've received elsewhere. I honestly cannot see myself entertaining another law firm on any related legal matters, just based off the recent experiences I've had with Mr. Voyles and his staff.
Mr. Voyles, this is how you create relationships that are mutually beneficial between the attorney and client! Thank you so much for everything you've done to help me!
Sincerely,
Andrew L.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Michelle gell
Bradley Voyles was very informative. He helped me understand what was and wasn’t needed in our current situation and also shared what we could do to ease issues when our children have to deal with our estate.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Brian mai
Mr. Voyles responded to my inquiry in a very timely manner, I appreciated that he took time to listen and understand my inquiry completely before giving his legal advice. I am impressed with his legal knowledge and professionalism, and would wholeheartedly recommend him!
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Andrew l.
After paying a total of $300 for two consultations, 15-min each, at a different law firm and not receiving sufficient guidance on how to move forward with my situation regarding a real estate matter, I decided to continue my search in finding what I deemed to be adequate legal counsel.
Therefore, I conducted an online search and came across the Law Office of Bradley Voyles. His reviews seemed extraordinary, and I was eager to give his office a call in hopes of setting up an appointment to speak with him as soon as he was available to meet with me.
When I called his office, I was hoping I would be able to quickly pay my consultation fees and schedule an appointment with Mr. Voyles to have my issues addressed within the next 1-2 weeks or so. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find out from his receptionist that although Mr. Voyles was currently in court at the time of my call, I was promised he would call me back later that same day to go over my concerns.
From the moment I called Mr. Voyles's office, I was immediately impressed at how courteous his staff was, and in how responsive Mr. Voyles was in getting back to me in the same day. I was not expecting this level of service at all!
Furthermore, when I called his office, I was surprised that at no time during the call were consultation fees ever brought up. Usually law offices want to charge your credit card lots of $$$ before you can even just say, "hello" to an attorney. But this was not the case here. I genuinely felt like Mr. Voyles and his staff's primary concern was just immediately addressing my concerns and nothing more.
In fact, when Mr. Voyles called me, he spoke to me for over 40 minutes. He also asked me to email him documentation and real estate contracts regarding some of the matters I discussed with him, and after wrapping up our conversation, he still never asked for any consultation fees.
I'm honestly in awe at how patient Mr. Voyles was with me during the call and with how informative he had been. The level of legal service I was provided by him was unparalleled to anything I've received elsewhere. I honestly cannot see myself entertaining another law firm on any related legal matters, just based off the recent experiences I've had with Mr. Voyles and his staff.
Mr. Voyles, this is how you create relationships that are mutually beneficial between the attorney and client! Thank you so much for everything you've done to help me!
Sincerely,
Andrew L.
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Michelle gell
Bradley Voyles was very informative. He helped me understand what was and wasn’t needed in our current situation and also shared what we could do to ease issues when our children have to deal with our estate.
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Brian mai
Mr. Voyles responded to my inquiry in a very timely manner, I appreciated that he took time to listen and understand my inquiry completely before giving his legal advice. I am impressed with his legal knowledge and professionalism, and would wholeheartedly recommend him!
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Andrew l.
After paying a total of $300 for two consultations, 15-min each, at a different law firm and not receiving sufficient guidance on how to move forward with my situation regarding a real estate matter, I decided to continue my search in finding what I deemed to be adequate legal counsel.
Therefore, I conducted an online search and came across the Law Office of Bradley Voyles. His reviews seemed extraordinary, and I was eager to give his office a call in hopes of setting up an appointment to speak with him as soon as he was available to meet with me.
When I called his office, I was hoping I would be able to quickly pay my consultation fees and schedule an appointment with Mr. Voyles to have my issues addressed within the next 1-2 weeks or so. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find out from his receptionist that although Mr. Voyles was currently in court at the time of my call, I was promised he would call me back later that same day to go over my concerns.
From the moment I called Mr. Voyles's office, I was immediately impressed at how courteous his staff was, and in how responsive Mr. Voyles was in getting back to me in the same day. I was not expecting this level of service at all!
Furthermore, when I called his office, I was surprised that at no time during the call were consultation fees ever brought up. Usually law offices want to charge your credit card lots of $$$ before you can even just say, "hello" to an attorney. But this was not the case here. I genuinely felt like Mr. Voyles and his staff's primary concern was just immediately addressing my concerns and nothing more.
In fact, when Mr. Voyles called me, he spoke to me for over 40 minutes. He also asked me to email him documentation and real estate contracts regarding some of the matters I discussed with him, and after wrapping up our conversation, he still never asked for any consultation fees.
I'm honestly in awe at how patient Mr. Voyles was with me during the call and with how informative he had been. The level of legal service I was provided by him was unparalleled to anything I've received elsewhere. I honestly cannot see myself entertaining another law firm on any related legal matters, just based off the recent experiences I've had with Mr. Voyles and his staff.
Mr. Voyles, this is how you create relationships that are mutually beneficial between the attorney and client! Thank you so much for everything you've done to help me!
Sincerely,
Andrew L.
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Michelle gell
Bradley Voyles was very informative. He helped me understand what was and wasn’t needed in our current situation and also shared what we could do to ease issues when our children have to deal with our estate.
Read more
30 Sep, 2017 by Jennifer
Having to deal with a school regarding your child is very stressful. You know your child deserves more than they are getting. Every suggestion I have been given, as been a help. Jackie and Sharon are extremely knowledgeable and know what to do. They fight for child at every turn.
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16 Sep, 2017 by Beverly
No one sets out on he wedding day thinking I'm going to get a divorce someday. Sometimes the inevitable happens though and that day does happen. When I reached that day in my own life, my #1 concern was that my son was effected as little as possible and his best interest was put first.
I interviewed several attorneys before meeting Sharon Ramage. After meeting with Sharon I knew she beyond fit the bill. Her background in Social Work gives her the background to have your kids interest covered.
Our divorce was very amicable and other than a few things my ex and I agreed on all points, because of this Sharon offered to handle the entire divorce. This not only saved us thousands of dollars, but allowed us to fast track a lot of the process. Since I hired her, she couldn't give my ex advice on anything but would send & submit things for both of us.
Her office staff is just as amazing. I worked closely with McKenna & Betsy on several occasions and they were just as wonderful.
So if you do find yourself in need of legal counsel for you family matter, I can't think of anyone more qualified than Sharon Ramage.
I wish you all the best!
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13 Nov, 2015 by Randi
Recently hired Sharon to help me in a battle for custody of my son. My situation was complex to say the least but from the beginning she provided me with nothing but confidence, reassurance and truth. I think the best quality is her ability to express to you blunty where you too, are at fault as much as it can feel like a hard reality in the midst of a struggle it is calming and easier to approach the courtroom with your eyes open to every aspect behind it, especially in a case that is not only involving yourself but the well being of your child. Highly recommend her. Not to mention Betsy Ober is always right beside Sharon they mesh well to put you at ease before, during and after your hearing.
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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:
-
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.
