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03 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Ms. Flanagan helped me straighten out a problem I encountered with an adoption that was previously in process before I met her. She is trustworthy, knowledgeable, meticulous, and sympathetic.
She knows how to handle difficult situations and thinks them through to avoid future problems.
Her genuine care for her clients results in the best outcomes.
I highly recommend Ms. Flanagan.
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07 Apr, 2021 by Tracey
When searching for an attorney to handle a personal and emotional matter, the need to find someone who is professional, knowledgeable and compassionate can be a difficult task. I found all of these characteristics and more in choosing and hiring Aimee Ashby Flanagan to handle my dissolution of marriage.
During our initial phone call, Aimee and I discussed the particulars of my marriage and as uncomfortable as it was for me to approach the conversation, Aimee's calm and comforting demeanor quickly settled my unsure nerves. Upon our first face to face meeting (during the Covid -19 pandemic), Aimee politely answered each of my many questions, took ample time discussing the divorce process and welcomed my feedback. Never was I rushed into signing an agreement or pressured to hurry the process. Her communication, whether by email, telephone or in person was always articulate and excellent and her response time throughout the duration of my case was immediate an on-point. She continually provided status updates, which I appreciated greatly. I was made aware of any email communication between she and my future ex-husband; each time impressed with her professionalism and expertise.
When the time came to file the final documents with the court, Aimee made sure I was 100% satisfied with the judgment agreement, spent ample time interpreting each document and again, answered my many questions.
The decision to end a marriage can be direful and as to be expected, emotional. Aimee has a keen way of not only listening; but, reassuring that you will be all right. Any fear I experienced at the beginning of this process has transpired to an overwhelming sense of relief and gratitude.
I highly recommend Aimee Ashby Flanagan. She is simply outstanding!
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20 Aug, 2019 by Robert
My divorce had a number of uncommon situations that might easily have baffled another attorney. Aimee not only navigated the difficult situations for me, but she also handled the divorce in such a manner that we resolved it completely with my ex-spouse as harmonious as possible. Most important, Aimee provided me with warm human understanding, coupled with her superb legal expertise. I could not have hoped for a better outcome and was so lucky to have the very best attorney.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Christina
I would never recommend anyone to use Emily as their attorney. I hired her many many years ago to represent me for my child custody/ support case and she did nothing to help me. I did all the leg work by providing her all my documents, going to the court to retrieve old documents from previous cases with the father of my children. The day of court she showed up with no paperwork, good thing I was prepared and had a copy of the whole case with me that she used. After months of not hearing from her with an update she informed me the judge threw out my case due to the other parent having outstanding violations and that I could pay the tickets myself to live forward which turned out to be a lie years later. I went to the court to try to proceed with the case on my own and the staff thought I was crazy and advised me to fire my attorney because they hard record she showed up to court on an unknown date and represented me and the judge did actually grant me full custody and child support which I did not know about for years. When I asked for the final documents they informed me the child support will not be valid since the attorney filed the order after hearing incorrectly and left off the child support but it was mentioned in the minute order. Per the court staff I would have to refill all the paperwork and serve the other parent again and go before a judge. It’s impossible for me to serve the other parent as he is in jail far away and financially I do not have the funds nor time to do this as this has been a case going since about 2013. Do not waste your time or money because you will be left doing the attorney work on your own.
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05 Feb, 2024 by Alejandro
I cannot express this enough, But Emily is a professional, understanding, and aggressive lawyer who will speak and fight for your Justice.
First thing’s first, I am very proud of my attorney, she really understands and takes into consideration the needs of her clients very seriously and acts accordingly. The Domestic Violence Restraining Order was DENIED AND CASE DISMISSED. Do not miss out on Emily, trust in her and her skills and follow her lead. Her cross examination skills are phenomenal. During my trial Emily defended me and I was able to see her be 10 steps ahead of petitioner and her attorney. She won my case and most importantly SHE REUNITED ME WITH MY DAUGHTER after 4 months of not being able to see her. I will forever be grateful to Emily, she will always be someone in my life that I will never forget. The way she spoke for me and represented me in that court room is something I will never forget. She took the stress away from me and assured me that their is Justice for MEN. I highly recommend Emily for representation!!
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17 Oct, 2023 by Luis
I want to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation for the outstanding legal services provided by Emily Marx throughout the duration of my lengthy child custody case. The dedication, knowledge, and professionalism demonstrated by Emily Marx were instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome that has positively impacted the lives of my children and me.
From the moment I met Emily, I was impressed by her compassionate and empathetic approach. She took the time to listen attentively to my concerns, ensuring that every important detail of my case was thoroughly understood. This personal touch made me feel valued as a client and instilled a sense of confidence in her abilities.
Throughout the years, Emily Marx consistently went above and beyond to advocate for the best interests of my two daughters. She exhibited exceptional expertise in family law matters, providing me with expert guidance and advice every step of the way. Her extensive knowledge of the legal system, combined with her sharp analytical skills, allowed her to develop a strategic plan that ultimately led to a successful outcome.
What impressed me the most about attorney, Emily Marx was her unwavering commitment to my case. She invested an enormous amount of time and effort, always promptly responding to my inquiries and ensuring that I was well-informed about the progress of my case. Emily Marx consistently demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and a genuine passion for her work.
Not only did Emily Marx possess excellent legal acumen, but she also had exceptional interpersonal skills. She managed to navigate complex family dynamics and difficult courtroom situations with grace and poise. Her ability to articulate our position effectively in court was commendable, leaving no doubt in my mind that I was in capable hands.
Finally, I would be remiss not to mention the invaluable support provided by Emily Marx's dedicated team. Her paralegal and support staff were always willing to lend a helping hand, ensuring that all necessary documentation and deadlines were met seamlessly. Together, this cohesive team exhibited a level of professionalism and dedication that exceeded my expectations.
Thanks to the exceptional legal representation provided by Emily Marx and her team, I can now enjoy a brighter future with my children. I highly recommend her services to anyone facing a child custody battle or any family law matter. In trusting Emily Marx, you can be confident that you are working with an individual who will fight for your family's best interests tirelessly.
Once again, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Emily Marx and her team for their unwavering support, legal expertise, and commitment to achieving justice on behalf of my two lovely daughters and me.
Again,
THANK YOU!
LRG
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07 Aug, 2024 by Ray cebrian
I thought that the price to update my trust was kind of high but I still went to Estate Lawyers. Amy Gostanian took all our info and make us understand all the pro and cons in making a trust, paralegal Diane Davis was the go too and she took all info that we agreed during the meeting, she went above and behind to treat us the best way possible, she is a very good hearted person.
Cassidy Russell she was the lawyer that checked the whole trust and make sure that we had all our wishes.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Greg martin
Very disappointed.
Reply to reply. Your firm is still on the service list of documents to this day. We had an agreement where, in lieu of a discount to the total bill, you would continue to represent me on the loose ends at no charge. You then immediately, without notice, filed to be removed as my council.
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03 Aug, 2023 by Jill bartholome
Amy was very kind, helpful and knowledgeable. And, she is fair and reasonable.
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03 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Nicole is professional and smart and I am able to sleep at night knowing she's on my side fighting for me. Having to retain an attorney for family matters involving children is never enjoyable but if you need someone who will truly listen and guide you correctly it's Nicole. She saved my future with my two kids and continues to make sure I have the best legal representation out there. I firmly believe she is one of the top lawyers out there. If you need one of the best give the firm a call and ask for Nicole. Ill continue to refer my family and friends her way.
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19 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Nicole not too long ago to represent me in a scary divorce & custody battle. She was very knowledgeable & experienced. She was very honest with me. She let me know what was worth fighting for & what was a waste of time & money. I felt like she held my hand the entire time. Everything came out great...better than I hoped. My child is happy & healthy. I just found out there was a website for reviews & wanted to thank her publicly for her patience.
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08 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Nicole was pawned off on me, for lack of better words, I went in thinking I was hiring Ms Whyte, and ended up with Miss Schmidt. She was rude through most of the process, and really did not listen, it was much easier for her to handle things in a cookie cutter fashion than to think outside the box. My biggest mistake was not getting a new attorney after our first day in court when she negotiated, I had very little involvement wirh that and was told it was only a preliminary and that we could get it changed later. Come to find out that is actually a very difficult feat. She prefers only contact through email. Once your case is finished, she mmakes it clear that she is no longer your attorney, you can rehire her for $300 an hour to ask her about your specifics about what was agreed upon in your negotiation. There's no information given on preparation for the future and in what instances you are entitled to make negotiations. Now I am paying an even steeper price by financial loss through her settling instead of fighting the fight and by hiring a new attorney to review and inform me of all that was agreed upon.
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FAQs
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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:
-
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.
