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09 May, 2024 by Jodi johnstone
I feel as though I was wrongfully arrested for a DUI. I am a pretty boring mom who never goes out and had not had a drink in years. A friend came from out of town and for the first night in years I took her out in KC, had 1 drink, than drank water for about 2 hours, grabbed a bite to eat, and about 3 or 4 hours after my one drink got in the car and forgot to turn on my headlights and got pulled over by a thirty to arrest DUI officer. He did three field sobriety test and I lost my balance on the walk, the last test, due to nerves/anxiety (was shaking), it was on an elevated surfaces and a uneven cracked sidewalk. He arrested me and gave me a PBT which I easily passed but still insisted I was under the influence. I called many lawyers and many stated that many prosecutors are hard on DUI’s due to MAD and even though it seemed straightforward we likely would have to go to trial. I looked up Denise and was impressed by her credentials but once I talked to her I knew she was hands down the one I wanted to hire. She was confident in her abilities and what she would be able to do for me. I could have gotten a cheaper lawyer but I she was well worth the extra I had to spend to get representation that would fight for me. Denise was able to get charge completely dismissed. It is disappointing that you can do everything right and still get wrongfully arrested by someone stacking up cases but thankful for people like Denise who are able to represent people when they feel like the odds are stacked against them.
Denise, thanks for everything you did to represent me and get my case dismissed. I shouldn’t never need another DUI lawyer but would/will recommend you, hands down!
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18 Mar, 2024 by Bryan deba
14 Jun, 2023 by Karlin york
I got charged with a DWI in September, 2022. I hired Denise Kirby and she started by calling me and getting all the information she needed from me asap. She was very impressive with how she handled the case and she constantly kept me in the loop with what was going on. After watching the video of my arrest, she filed for a motion to suppress and won that, which resulted in the case being dropped. She came to court incredibly prepared and had a counter for everything the prosecutor said. Overall, watching Denise handle this case was very impressive and I would highly recommend her to anyone in this situation.
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09 May, 2024 by Jodi johnstone
I feel as though I was wrongfully arrested for a DUI. I am a pretty boring mom who never goes out and had not had a drink in years. A friend came from out of town and for the first night in years I took her out in KC, had 1 drink, than drank water for about 2 hours, grabbed a bite to eat, and about 3 or 4 hours after my one drink got in the car and forgot to turn on my headlights and got pulled over by a thirty to arrest DUI officer. He did three field sobriety test and I lost my balance on the walk, the last test, due to nerves/anxiety (was shaking), it was on an elevated surfaces and a uneven cracked sidewalk. He arrested me and gave me a PBT which I easily passed but still insisted I was under the influence. I called many lawyers and many stated that many prosecutors are hard on DUI’s due to MAD and even though it seemed straightforward we likely would have to go to trial. I looked up Denise and was impressed by her credentials but once I talked to her I knew she was hands down the one I wanted to hire. She was confident in her abilities and what she would be able to do for me. I could have gotten a cheaper lawyer but I she was well worth the extra I had to spend to get representation that would fight for me. Denise was able to get charge completely dismissed. It is disappointing that you can do everything right and still get wrongfully arrested by someone stacking up cases but thankful for people like Denise who are able to represent people when they feel like the odds are stacked against them.
Denise, thanks for everything you did to represent me and get my case dismissed. I shouldn’t never need another DUI lawyer but would/will recommend you, hands down!
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18 Mar, 2024 by Bryan deba
14 Jun, 2023 by Karlin york
I got charged with a DWI in September, 2022. I hired Denise Kirby and she started by calling me and getting all the information she needed from me asap. She was very impressive with how she handled the case and she constantly kept me in the loop with what was going on. After watching the video of my arrest, she filed for a motion to suppress and won that, which resulted in the case being dropped. She came to court incredibly prepared and had a counter for everything the prosecutor said. Overall, watching Denise handle this case was very impressive and I would highly recommend her to anyone in this situation.
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17 Nov, 2024 by Radclyffe george
Her $300 consult was a waste of time and money. It was clear during the meeting that she hadn't really read any of the advance material provided about the case. She was very defeatist and provided no strategy for getting any of the things I was proposing in the custody modification. There were no outputs from the consult meeting (eg.: summaries, proposals, assessments for path forward). When I called the office to follow-up I was told she wanted another $300 consult fee. No return phone calls. Very unprofessional to the point of ethically questionable.
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21 Jul, 2024 by Robby benoit
Maybe a good candidate for a cupcake eating contest, but even the most casual observer can discern her inadequacies in a courtroom. The only argument she ever made was on behalf of herself trying to justify why she was so ineffective at very fundamental task.
We spent 3.5 years concluding a fifth grade math problem and they still screwed it up.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Dylan scull
Amazing lawyer highly recommend! She got me everything I wanted within months, I’m extremely grateful for Jessica and her team:)
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04 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Sara for my divorce. During the free consultation, she actually asked me questions that showed me that she cared about me. She is super busy but I could always reach her paralegal and was kept informed and I got the result that I wanted.
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26 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I have hired Sara twice now, and she's the just simply the best. If want someone who will truly care and fight for you and your children, Sara is the one. Hands down. Thank you so much, Sara, for all you have done for my family.
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07 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Sara represented me in a custody battle. My ex threatened to raise support every time she got mad at me, gave me the kids when it suited her and changed plans without giving me a choice. Sara Marler got me extra time with my kids, got my support lowered due to the additional time I had the kids and got better conditions for the exchange. You get what you pay for - it was my kids. I wanted the best. I didn't want a bargain lawyer. I got the best.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Beth krieger
Anna is so authentic and genuine. Such an intelligent person. She is compassionate and not afraid to put reality on the table. I really like her, not just as an attorney, but as a wonderful human!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Carrie mccardie
Amy Salladay has been a fantastic attorney to work with. In a maintenance modification case, Amy is not only highly knowledgeable, but she demonstrated great creativity in her approach to my case. All of my questions were always answered with great clarity. She kept me informed every step of the way, which gave me great peace of mind. Amy’s courtroom demeanor and presence are top-notch and speak volumes in a trial setting. She thoroughly reviewed all of the evidence in my case. She prepared an exceptional strategy that ultimately tipped the scale in my favor for the final court judgment, which exceeded my expectations of no longer paying spousal maintenance. I highly recommend Amy Salladay and her team at Columbia Family Law Group. Thank you so much for everything you have done - Jason and Carrie
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15 Jul, 2024 by Jordawn boyd
31 Dec, 2024 by Missy denton
Didn't notify that he was dropping the case. Not professional at all. His secretary was very rude as well!! Took money and told client that he didn't have any time for the case. However it didn't bother him to take the money! Stay clear of this lawyer if you don't want to be taken advantage of!!
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22 Dec, 2024 by Kevin mason
Didn't go
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06 Aug, 2024 by Craig johnson
Great to work with and provided excellent services. I would recommend Birk Law Firm to anyone needing legal help!
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24 Jun, 2024 by Chantel hamrick
I had a wonderful experience with HPM! Jenny is the best. Everyone was very helpful and friendly. Thank you Jenny, Molly, and everyone who helped along the way!
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22 Dec, 2023 by Scorpions missouri
To be laughing as we leave is highly unprofessional and the biast you have shown is utterly unacceptable and will be asking for you to recuse yourself from this case and any cases involving my cases as the biast you have shown in my cases in the past and current ...from making deals with out lawyers saying "I don't normally make deals like this with out a lawyer but in the Christmas spirit I will "to saying we're not ready for trial when said last court appointment saying we are going to trial in December then not being ready for trial to comments about contacting the attorney general when I won the case against the city of Gower for my snakes this has festered since that day with you and chief Adam Hill I will be asking to file a motion under rule 2.-2.11
Sincerely
Colt Skouby
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30 Aug, 2023 by L daleo
I used kelly for my divorce. She helped me through every step start to finish. She kept me well informed and on schedule with court dates, I always got a phone call to tell me how hearings went if didnt have to attend or any communications she had with oposing counsel. Kelly is well in tune with clay county court. She fought hard for me in a difficult case. And the outcome was much better than I had expected going into the proceedings. I highly recommend Kelly and have actually referred a good friend and a family member to her
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07 Oct, 2024 by Sarah denney
16 Nov, 2023 by Cheez 200
09 Jul, 2023 by Nanette parton
Great lawyer! Great person!
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10 Dec, 2024 by Jacob nichols
In my opinion you should stay away from this law firm. That’s all I will say for now.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Tommy gilmore
05 Apr, 2024 by R g
Casey Elliott provided top-notch legal service to a friend of mine who was an Air Force veteran with cancer and in hospice care. Casey came to the Hospitals at both Boone and later at VA to get the information needed and to get the necessary legal documents executed by him in a timely manner. Because of her speedy assistance, when my friend passed away only weeks later he did so with the peace of mind that his legal affairs were in good order and that his wife would also be in good legal shape. I am glad I was able to help my friend become a client of Casey and am writing this review on his behalf.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Tiffany hoffman
20 Jun, 2024 by Cheryl spurgeon
Do not use this law firm! Terrible service and very expensive with no outcome!
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11 Jan, 2024 by Deanna napier
Joel is phenomenal and he truly cares. I appreciate how thorough and patient he is, showing mercy to me and my lack of legal knowledge, providing me lengthy and comprensible Explanations throughout the process . He is super knowledgeable and dedicated to his work . So glad we went with Stange law firm!
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19 Jan, 2025 by Living with autism and traumatic brain injury
Great bunch worth every penny
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26 Dec, 2024 by B huber
I am a returning client to Stange after a really good first experience, but after my experience on the phone with an extremely rude woman, I have cancelled my consultation and vowed to never use Stange again. The call was to tell me that instead of the $175 consultation fee I was told over the phone, I was told it would be $250 because I was a returning client. I asked how that entices people to come back to the firm if the cost was 45% more? She responded with , well it's whatever, and I told her I thought that was a lousy response. She asked me if I wanted to keep the appt. scheduled for today, and I said not at the increased price. She said she'd let it 'slide' for today, but for next time, I needed to be aware. Strictly because of her tone of voice, candor on the phone, and not being kind and/or pleasant on the phone whatsoever, I asked to cancel the meeting and get my deposit refunded, where she then hung up the phone on me. Not a good look for Stange, losing clients because your front office is rude, but who knows, maybe they don't need the business!?
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19 Dec, 2024 by The pit crew
Chad took time to help me get through a hard time.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Her safeplace
I would agree as to Sylvia's prowess as an attorney and her skills in getting desired results for her clients. She certainly knows how to work the legal system to the greatest advance of her clients. Yet she does so with quite questionable ethics/acumen. In my opinion, anyone who has to lie and cheat to win, never truly wins. It all will come back to you. Justice without your head held high is no justice that I want to be a part of, ever.
In response to the below reply: I gave an honest good faith review of my experience. All viewpoints are necessary, whether they be that of the beneficiary or the one on the other side of the table.
Edit: As evident, I am not a client of Sylvia's. Her willingness to achieve the goal by any means necessary, no matter the ethical bounds has been my true in fact experience. If that's the side you need to take, then by all means, she is your girl.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Shawn ali
05 Sep, 2024 by Kerry borawski
Highly recommend Martin Jansky & his team of professionals. They supported me through a difficult time, and in Martin's words, allowed me "to be a daughter" when I needed just that. His advice was helpful and his team excelled in both clear communication & consistent support.
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3.8
11 Reviews
4.0
57 Reviews
04 Dec, 2024 by Taylor dunkel
I highly recommend Reece Family Law! Shelly has been patient, kind, and understanding throughout the entire process. She is incredibly informative and explains everything in such a compassionate way and makes sure that all parties understand each part of the process. She’s always been available for questions and legal counsel whenever we’ve needed her, and her office staff is helpful and great to work with.
If you’re needing family law representation, Reece Family Law should be your first choice!
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31 Oct, 2024 by Shannon black
Shelly was so awesome!! I needed a lawyer to step in for my previous lawyer and she came through!! She is extremely knowledgeable and she cares about her clients. Highly recommend for divorce cases.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Brittany senter
21 Mar, 2023 by Michelle bernard
Terry and Mark are great listeners and front desk personal is fabulous
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04 Mar, 2023 by Rhonda mccracken
01 Nov, 2022 by Miranda riggs
I wouldn’t even give this review a 1 star. The lawyer I talked to was very rude. Didn’t listen at all. Told me that I needed to do more visits when it not even possible when there are family’s out there that live states away from their children/child. But I’m suppose to make 4 hrs away and spend 1500 to 2k a week/weekend to go see my child. NO ONE can spend that much a weekend and be able to survive in this world.
She was very rude an in my opinion very very unprofessional at her job.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Chris dowdy
Family law at its finest! Monica has by far exceeded all of my expectations and was an absolute pleasure to work with. Quick response times and straight to the point. She listens and understands very well while providing the best legal counsel I have ever experienced.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Michael anderson
I'm VERY pleased with Mr. Cisar's law firm. Not only is this man an awesome lawyer, he's a cool guy. Understanding, funny, and VERY professional.
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30 Oct, 2024 by Trish brown
Monica was awesome!! She walked me through a very difficult divorce. She stay by me all the way getting the best possible results. She is sweet caring and most of all she is for you from beginning to end ..Thank you Monica for all you did for me .
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11 Apr, 2023 by Amanda o'brien
11 Jul, 2021 by Terry bailey
18 Apr, 2021 by Jim bastian
01 Dec, 2024 by Maddalyn mansfield
i attempted for weeks and weeks to get an initial appointment set up or even a call back with no luck, and we ultimately ended up going with someone else. we had really high hopes about him and are very disappointed we never even got the chance to speak to him. the woman who answers calls at the office is extremely snobby. the only response i ever got was "if he has time and feels like it he will give you a call" she had such a nasty attitude and it seems like she expected us to beg for an appointment. whenever you are willing and ready to hand someone almost twenty thousand dollars you would expect them to be eager too do their job, apparently not.
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18 Nov, 2024 by James jablonski
Travis is the tuffest lawyer on the seen. He does exactly what he says he will. Trust and believe that.
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20 Oct, 2024 by Anaya moore
This man helped me get my license back while it was suspended in no time give him a call
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19 Jan, 2025 by Living with autism and traumatic brain injury
Great bunch worth every penny
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26 Dec, 2024 by B huber
I am a returning client to Stange after a really good first experience, but after my experience on the phone with an extremely rude woman, I have cancelled my consultation and vowed to never use Stange again. The call was to tell me that instead of the $175 consultation fee I was told over the phone, I was told it would be $250 because I was a returning client. I asked how that entices people to come back to the firm if the cost was 45% more? She responded with , well it's whatever, and I told her I thought that was a lousy response. She asked me if I wanted to keep the appt. scheduled for today, and I said not at the increased price. She said she'd let it 'slide' for today, but for next time, I needed to be aware. Strictly because of her tone of voice, candor on the phone, and not being kind and/or pleasant on the phone whatsoever, I asked to cancel the meeting and get my deposit refunded, where she then hung up the phone on me. Not a good look for Stange, losing clients because your front office is rude, but who knows, maybe they don't need the business!?
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19 Dec, 2024 by The pit crew
Chad took time to help me get through a hard time.
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25 Jun, 2022 by Josh crawford
11 Mar, 2022 by Stacey barrett
Rebecca was my attorney for my divorce it was a very complicated case she walked me through every step of the way any time I had a question I had an answer quickly I couldn’t of asked for a better attorney without hesitation I would definitely use Rebecca
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09 Mar, 2022 by Jacob simpson
04 Dec, 2024 by Taylor dunkel
I highly recommend Reece Family Law! Shelly has been patient, kind, and understanding throughout the entire process. She is incredibly informative and explains everything in such a compassionate way and makes sure that all parties understand each part of the process. She’s always been available for questions and legal counsel whenever we’ve needed her, and her office staff is helpful and great to work with.
If you’re needing family law representation, Reece Family Law should be your first choice!
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29 Nov, 2024 by Nathan
He does not deserve any stars at all, actually. Unfortunately, that's not an option.
Be very careful if considering hiring Joshua Roberts. He demands money, money, money and does nothing, nothing, nothing. Check out his other reviews online. I gave him $24,000.00 and he did nothing of value in representing me. He eventually withdrew from my case without reason or warning. Shortly thereafter he told me that the $24k retainer was used up. There was absolutely no way. I demanded a refund and he refused, saying "That's the nature of the business." I have hired attorneys before who have done a fantastic job and ripping people off was certainly not the "nature" of their businesses. He actually had the gumption to tell me I needed to pay him more money. Once he withdrew, I scrambled and tried to raise the money to find a legitimate attorney that could actually help me defend my position. I was unable to afford getting a different attorney, had to finish the case by trying desperately to defend myself, and ended up losing my case and getting a massive judgment against me.
This man (if he should even be called one) is no good. He's a liar, cheater, and a thief. He thinks he's superior to the law. Again, he's a liar, cheater, and a thief.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Shannon black
Shelly was so awesome!! I needed a lawyer to step in for my previous lawyer and she came through!! She is extremely knowledgeable and she cares about her clients. Highly recommend for divorce cases.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Luke skaggs
Worst attorneys I've ever experienced. Had to have 2 attorneys represent me because the first attorney didn't recognize her own client waiting for trial and started insulting me to another attorney without realizing I was sitting a few feet away. Then the second attorney they supplied to make up for it, just wanted money. She threatened to not represent me anymore if I didn't pay her more money while we were in the middle of the case, days before trial. I ended up having to switch lawfirms completely before my case was over.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Julia richards
18 Sep, 2023 by Alexandria johnson
19 Jan, 2025 by Living with autism and traumatic brain injury
Great bunch worth every penny
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26 Dec, 2024 by B huber
I am a returning client to Stange after a really good first experience, but after my experience on the phone with an extremely rude woman, I have cancelled my consultation and vowed to never use Stange again. The call was to tell me that instead of the $175 consultation fee I was told over the phone, I was told it would be $250 because I was a returning client. I asked how that entices people to come back to the firm if the cost was 45% more? She responded with , well it's whatever, and I told her I thought that was a lousy response. She asked me if I wanted to keep the appt. scheduled for today, and I said not at the increased price. She said she'd let it 'slide' for today, but for next time, I needed to be aware. Strictly because of her tone of voice, candor on the phone, and not being kind and/or pleasant on the phone whatsoever, I asked to cancel the meeting and get my deposit refunded, where she then hung up the phone on me. Not a good look for Stange, losing clients because your front office is rude, but who knows, maybe they don't need the business!?
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19 Dec, 2024 by The pit crew
Chad took time to help me get through a hard time.
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19 Jan, 2025 by Living with autism and traumatic brain injury
Great bunch worth every penny
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26 Dec, 2024 by B huber
I am a returning client to Stange after a really good first experience, but after my experience on the phone with an extremely rude woman, I have cancelled my consultation and vowed to never use Stange again. The call was to tell me that instead of the $175 consultation fee I was told over the phone, I was told it would be $250 because I was a returning client. I asked how that entices people to come back to the firm if the cost was 45% more? She responded with , well it's whatever, and I told her I thought that was a lousy response. She asked me if I wanted to keep the appt. scheduled for today, and I said not at the increased price. She said she'd let it 'slide' for today, but for next time, I needed to be aware. Strictly because of her tone of voice, candor on the phone, and not being kind and/or pleasant on the phone whatsoever, I asked to cancel the meeting and get my deposit refunded, where she then hung up the phone on me. Not a good look for Stange, losing clients because your front office is rude, but who knows, maybe they don't need the business!?
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19 Dec, 2024 by The pit crew
Chad took time to help me get through a hard time.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Matt newcomer
22 Jul, 2024 by Angela d jones
He is very kind and helpful with our situation. Would definitely recommend
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06 Dec, 2023 by Jonathan smith
Tom was absolutely wonderful. I caught a speeding ticket about 2 am from a state trooper one night on my way home to my family. This ticket was drug out for 8 months. 8 months because the trooper never showed up for court and the state refused to amend the citation. I was able to get in touch with Tom and he not only got the citation amended but also saved my CDL in the process. Extremely reasonable fella. Would recommend him to anyone in the Marshall area!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Amy clausner
The attorney I meet with at this practice couldn't tell me if he knew for sure he could help me with my situation due to laws. I paid $175 for him to tell me doesn't know for sure. Then he let me know their extremely high rates. He maybe spent 10 minutes with me, he didn't even seem like he had any sympathy. He told me they charged $5000 just to help me get my daughter a restraining order and he cont even guarantee that I would work. This practice is definitely out for the money and don't care about their potential clients. Just a disgrace.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Logan chmiel
Your money is spent better elsewhere. This company does not have your best interests or your families in mind just thier wallets. They Will idavidualize every case to make the most profit even if the cases or motions should be or could be filed jointly. If you do your own research that contradicts what they are saying, they will lie to your face and tell you that you are wrong. Thier invoices do not add up and the entire operation seems shady. Avoid at all costs. Thankfully we switched our attorneys before they lost us our case and more money.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Sha############################ron ismith
Keith Fuller represented our family recently. He was educated, precise and closed out our case swiftly. I would definitely recommend his services.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Justin jones
01 May, 2024 by Sarah bunton
26 Jan, 2024 by Chris lute
16 Dec, 2023 by Donald deshone
DO NOT USE! I hired an attorney out of the Troy location. But they assigned me an attorney out of the Arnold location, I was charged $700 in attorney fees just for him to drive to court every month. I was told I had to hire a 2nd attorney in the case. Another $2500 retainer. This attorney was out of Washington, Missouri, and he used all of my retainer fee just to show up to the first court date for the judge to dismiss it in the attorney never to say one word. my first attorney quit the law firm and moved to Texas and I was assigned another new attorney which I was charged for him to review all my case file. in total, I have spent over $14,000 at 6 court dates for nothing at all to happen. The law firm constantly put my money into the wrong trust account, which causes me to pay interest on my bill. Customer care is horrible, I highly recommend finding counsel somewhere else, and not using Stange law firm
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30 Nov, 2023 by Leonila salinas
Chad Hager represented me in a complex custody case from January to November of this year and was a consummate professional. I had retained a different lawyer a year prior from another law firm and they did nothing but waste my time and take my money. But Chad at Stange was nothing like that. Chad’s expertise made me confident I had made the right choice. He is concise, quick to respond, and strategic in his work. Very glad we chose him to help us navigate our situation, I am now free to live a life safe and happy with my child, free from our harmful past. Thank you, Chad and Stange!
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14 Jul, 2023 by Jeremy littrell
They are very on top of things. I give them 2 thumbs up for service and satisfaction!!!!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Tiffany hoffman
20 Jun, 2024 by Cheryl spurgeon
Do not use this law firm! Terrible service and very expensive with no outcome!
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11 Jan, 2024 by Deanna napier
Joel is phenomenal and he truly cares. I appreciate how thorough and patient he is, showing mercy to me and my lack of legal knowledge, providing me lengthy and comprensible Explanations throughout the process . He is super knowledgeable and dedicated to his work . So glad we went with Stange law firm!
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21 Mar, 2024 by Bobbie panning
Steven listened to the concerns and issues there were. He always gave advice on how to react based on his many years of experience. Even though the case took nearly a year he was on top of it the whole time. He got the best results possible for my daughter! He stood behind our choices. We won for her benefit, with some of the best wins ever, because he always had her best interest at the forefront. I will recommend Steven for any family law cases with abuse. My daughter’s long term life has been changed! I can not say Thank You enough to Seven and the Anderson, Sundell, and Skinner firm.
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30 Dec, 2023 by Erin chapman
12 Aug, 2022 by Jennifer romick
Rude over the phone and hateful in person!!!
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04 Nov, 2024 by Taylor lucas
The legal assistant, Holly, for John Fuchs is incredibly rude. I called to inquire a case I had submitted, she told me it’s “impossible we call every client…” I stated that is exactly why I was calling, to follow up and save her precious time. She also proceeded to sigh heavily on the phone while I was talking. I was polite, never angry. Maybe coach Holly on how to be nice to clients and proper phone etiquette.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Chris myers
My ex tried to steal custody from me with slander and false statements. I'm happy that Cynthia was able to make a fair and accurate judgement on my case. Not easy going through a divorce, but happy to have this GAL appointed.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Steve carapella
Unethical, drags every case out to maximize his profit. Speak to any other lawyer or judge that’s ever worked with or around him. They all will tell you how unethical he is. How he hasn’t been disbarred is astonishing. Unethical!!!!
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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.
