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24 May, 2024 by Lenora
I hired Taylor in April 2023, sharing with her that my top priority was securing the majority of the year with my children. From the beginning, Taylor was candid, telling me she couldn’t guarantee outcomes but that she would fight diligently for my case. I expressed my desire to avoid court, and thanks to Taylor’s expertise, we managed to settle everything through mediation, sparing me from ever stepping into a courtroom. My divorce was high conflict, and Taylor was a constant source of comfort. She showed remarkable patience, especially when my mother passed away just weeks before our first mediation session. Taylor compassionately offered to pause the proceedings, but respecting my wishes, she continued to push forward. Taylor’s dedication and diligence were evident as she fought to secure everything I deserved, from primary custody of my children to retaining the family home. Her strategic approach and unwavering support made all the difference. For anyone considering hiring an attorney, my advice is to be completely honest with them from start to finish. Integrity is crucial, and Taylor exemplified this every step of the way. She was worth every penny, delivering on every single request I had. Taylor’s tenacity and dedication to her clients are unparalleled. She fights for her clients like a Soldier on the battlefield. I have no regrets and complete respect for her work. Keep an eye on Taylor—she’s destined for great success!
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24 May, 2024 by Anonymous
My divorce could be categorized as ‘high-conflict’ because I was dealing with a ‘covert passive aggressive narcissist’ and at that time I did not fully understand what I was up against and the person I was really dealing with. From the beginning with Leigh Taylor and Taylor, I had their unwavering support and we worked as a team. I am extremely grateful to both for navigating me through an already tough situation made exponentially worse by former spouse's behavior and actions/inaction. Former spouse cycled through 3 attorneys - I consider myself fortunate to find these two from start to end. Leigh Taylor and Taylor bring extensive experience, are detail-oriented, timely and made sure the products put in front of the court were polished and ironclad. I have great respect for both and sincerely appreciate everything they did for me. Thank you!
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15 May, 2024 by Melissa
I hired Taylor Oyaas in the summer of 2022 for ongoing post-divorce custody proceedings. I filed for divorce in 2011 and I've had a lawyer pass away, verbally abuse me, retire, and take a sabbatical. After my previous lawyer announced her sabbatical, I asked her point-blank, "Who are the best female family law lawyers in Memphis?" Without hesitation, she referred me to Leigh Taylor White and Taylor Oyaas. From my first consultation to our last phone call and every step in-between, they have demonstrated professionalism, empathy, expertise, determination, and a killer instinct. They have guided me through a challenging situation and every recommendation they have made has been spot-on. Taylor has spent extensive amounts of time researching precedent and not only making legal recommendations, but explaining why she made them and how they could potentially impact my case and my children. For the first time in 13 years, I am confident in my attorneys and believe these custody proceedings will finally be resolved. They have restored my faith in humanity and the legal profession and inspired me to leverage my experiences to try and help others in my position. My daughter is a junior in college and Leigh Taylor and Taylor have inspired her to pursue a career in family law because they have had such a powerful impact on her life. Hire this woman. Like another Taylor I'm a fan of, she is fearless.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Abbay
I’m forever grateful to Leah for her deft handling of my divorce. She is exceptionally knowledgeable in her field. My divorce was complex, and she didn’t hesitate to consult experts as needed. She is professional, patient and kind, and was tireless in explaining the process repeatedly to me while tolerating my ups and downs. She was intent upon getting a fair settlement for me and concerned about custody arrangements and our parenting plan. Leah is conscientious and judicious in billing her time. I knew exactly where my money was going. Hiring Leah was the best decision I could have made while going through this difficult process. I have already referred several people to her, knowing they will get the same high level of care that I received.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
A friend referred me to Leah for representation during a pending divorce. She proved to be an excellent listener and encouraging voice and always remained my advocate, even at times when I was in my own way. Leah continues to be my first call whenever I'm in need of legal advice or assistance. I give her my highest recommendation.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Melissa
Leah is a zealous advocate for her clients. She is detail-oriented and always prepared. She works hard to ensure that her clients' best interests are served, whether that is through the negotiation process, or the trial process.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Cathy pea
Great people!
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07 Aug, 2024 by Michael russell
I had an amazing experience today. I met with Attorney Burdette. She was claiming and did an excellent job explaining the process and my rights. I am glad she is on my side for this journey
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24 Jul, 2024 by Ontony
Burdette Law Firm is soooo rude. I asked to schedule a conversation because I didn't understand the divorce process, and the below was their response. The response was over the top and unnecessary. It could be just me, but I read a lot of adittude, a bit of sugar, and a broken wrist.. lol.. This company is grossly unprofessional, and I hope they get everything they deserve....
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09 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
LT and her team is the BEST! I was referred to her. I did a consultation with her. I explained my entire situation and she gave me the best advice for child support court. I hired her within a week. She is easy to get hold of and follow up with you. She is worth it and I will recommend get her 10/10.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Sarah
Hire these women! You absolutely will not be disappointed. I can’t say enough about LT and Taylor. Not only did they help me get everything I needed, but they were ROCKS throughout the entire process. They answered emails promptly, they were personable, empathetic, scheduled meetings as soon as possible when I needed them, like everything about them is just perfect. They are seriously the best of the best.
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22 Jun, 2022 by Francis
Leigh Taylor is excellent. Brilliant, compassionate, ethical and incredibly competent. So grateful she handled my case
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31 Jan, 2024 by Rich c.
Can’t trust a law firm whose main goal is to disrupt a mothers life and try to take her kids away or to jail due to a lying husband. Don’t trust this law firm for anything. All crooks
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16 Jan, 2023 by Kelli abee
This law firm is top notch in every way! Amy Cannon has helped me many times over the years, and is an absolutely wonderful attorney and person! Her and her team are extremely professional, return calls and e-mails in a timely manner, and are always helpful and kind. I would highly recommend her to anyone needing help with child custody or support issues. She is simply the best!
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03 Jan, 2023 by Steven jacobs
Amy helped me through a very difficult time in my life. I would advise anyone else going through this process to immediately contact her. Thank you Amy and bccmlaw.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Rich c.
Can’t trust a law firm whose main goal is to disrupt a mothers life and try to take her kids away or to jail due to a lying husband. Don’t trust this law firm for anything. All crooks
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16 Jan, 2023 by Kelli abee
This law firm is top notch in every way! Amy Cannon has helped me many times over the years, and is an absolutely wonderful attorney and person! Her and her team are extremely professional, return calls and e-mails in a timely manner, and are always helpful and kind. I would highly recommend her to anyone needing help with child custody or support issues. She is simply the best!
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03 Jan, 2023 by Steven jacobs
Amy helped me through a very difficult time in my life. I would advise anyone else going through this process to immediately contact her. Thank you Amy and bccmlaw.
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16 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Nick acted like he cared about my case. As the victim of long standing DV, ending with my ex being arrested and a SWAT team being involved, I thought I would finally see justice. Nope. Nick didn’t return phone calls/emails. I had proof my ex was violating multiple conditions of his bond order. Nick simply didn’t care. Transferred the case to Shelby County. There will be no consequences. So now my ex gets to do this to someone else. Nick is a coward. Lazy. Incompetent. Unprofessional.
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29 Nov, 2018 by Cynthia mason-hutchinson
My father was incarcerated for an incident against my brother and after I met with Nick for a consultation and within 3 minutes of talking with him, I hired him immediately. Nick was very detailed on all of the pros and cons of my dads case, very informative and through from day one. My dad was looking at a lengthy sentence, “Possibly Life,” but Nick pushed on and my Dad ended up not passing away behind bars, but instead at home with his family. Thanks to Nicks persistence, dedication, commitment, and unselfish loyalty to my Dad & Our Family. For all of that, I am and will always be forever grateful to Nick! I can never Thank You Enough.
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29 Mar, 2017 by Fotini sandoval
Thanks to Nicholas! Every step of my divorce was explained in detail with no unexpected surprises! Highly Recommended!
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28 Dec, 2022 by Gary
Sarah was a tremendous person to hire as an attorney to help guide me through the dissolution of a near 15 year marriage with multiple children. She was honest, factual, attentive, and respectful of what was important to me. Most importantly, she has a keen ability to understand people in a short period of time. She brought up many things during the creation of the MDA that i had not thought about previously that remain helpful today in navigating life post-divorce. From a pure business perspective, her practice operates very efficiently and she is very organized. All expectations regarding fees, payments, and the entire process are as clear up front as they can be. I would highly recommend Sarah to anyone seeking a family law attorney. For me, she was exactly the attorney I needed.
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01 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Wonderful! Night and day experience. They actually care about who they represent.
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17 Jan, 2022 by Quinton
Mrs Turner explained everything to us upfront before we hired her she was extremely professional she answered our questions…Mrs Turner is a beast in the courtroom she will fight for you until the end. Definitely recommend her. She returned our calls and messages
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19 Aug, 2024 by Michael davis
Bill Jones and the Jones Law Firm represented me in my divorce case for two years. When I met Bill for my consultation, I was on the brink of losing my case and everything I had, I thought my destruction was inevitable. The moment Bill took the reins as my Legal Counsel everything changed. We won the case due to Bill and his firm’s tenacity, knowledge, and legal prowess in the face of impossible odds. Bill will always give you a straightforward assessment that you can trust. I never once doubted his loyalty or motives as my attorney; he has earned my trust and belief that he would fight till the end exhausting every opportunity to win his client’s case. Bill, Chris, and Heather will fight for you with everything they have because your success is their success. They worked tirelessly and diligently, delivering results better than the goals we set, the cost was more than fair and well-earned. When I hired the Jones Law Firm, I was looking for representation, instead, I found permanent legal representation & lifelong friends who are loyal and fight for you. If you need representation, you can find no better Attorney than Bill Jones and the Jones Law Firm, they are the best advocates you can have, and they will earn your trust every day for all your legal needs. It is rare today to find an attorney of his caliber, commitment, and integrity.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Daniel barin
I got pulled over over going 52 in a 45. Cop said I was in a 35 zone clearly lying. Scott didn't fix it, the ticket stood. Easiest case to win and somehow he loses.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Jake whittaker
Bill Jones provided cool-headed guidance in a seemingly life-shattering situation. He took me from getting no time with my kids to winning majority custody. Plus, he enabled me to save money by teaching me how to do a lot of the tedious homework, like discovery responses, for myself. He wasn’t looking to bleed me dry. He treated me with genuine compassion; while also keeping me grounded, and making sure my goals in my custody battle were realistic. A great friend of mine, who recommended Bill to me, had a similar experience. I had worked with a couple of attorneys before him; and can thoroughly see the difference between an attorney like Bill, who legitimately cares, and a typical attorney who’s just looking to close a deal as soon as possible. If your life has been shattered by divorce, and/or a custody battle, there is no one better to have in your corner.
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14 Sep, 2024 by Karma
It was quite scary and hard for a 14-year old trans kid to face their rapist and not cry. The process was long and grueling but getting to meet my lawyer and judge before having to testify in front of a group of random people and to tell what he did to me made it much better. I don't think I could bare to do this ever again but the process was worth it.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason rudd
The feds need to come here asap totally ineffective. How are we fighting crime when they just let these criminals out without facing any consequences. I'm ashamed that I unfortunately live in this hell hole.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Dillon crone
My Rating is Zero!!! This office should be ashamed... It's a No Wonder these Criminals are Running the streets. 18 year old gets caught breaking into cars and gets a $1000 bond... I guarantee you he had his $100 to bond out.... Right back on the street!!! SMH...
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05 Jun, 2021 by Josh matthews
Miss Mullins is an unprofessional mediator. She is not able to keep the parties on track so a plan can not be formulated. She is not worth the expense you will end up losing money by using her. I would recommend finding a different mediator.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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