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02 Mar, 2023 by Tori brock
An amazing team that will take care of you. I’m really happy they were able to help me with my case.
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19 Dec, 2022 by Christopher saleh
Integrity, professional, responsive and fair !! I could not give a higher recommendation for Rik Lovett. His ethical approach to a difficult job when you are dealing with the most trying of times was impeccable. He was always up-front in discussing the realities of divorce and constantly kept the ultimate goals of the case in focus. Rik's paralegals are also top-notch in assisting with your case. The fee structure was fair, and the expertise and experience Rik provides is invaluable. I found Rik extremely easy to communicate with. Look as much as you like, but you would be hard pressed to find his equal.
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18 Apr, 2022 by David dietrich
The complete team at Rik Lovett's are committed to bringing the best to the table. Helpful, friendly and straight to the point.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Arnold dargen
1st time and I’m highly uneducated in theses matters, this team helped me understand and didn’t discuss things with me as if I should know. Look forward to this group assisting me.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Benny lorie
I want to first and foremost can't express enough of my gratitude
Towards the amazing team at Riddle and Brantley. I was in a really bad car accident. And after trying to work with the insurance company with the at fault party and they weren't willing to help me. I honestly felt like it was the end of the road, and no one was going to help me.
Then I contacted this company and man old man. I can honestly say they came in the clutch. I'm blessed and grateful to my lawyer Daren Dawson and the exceptionally gifted an incredibly sweet patient Case Manager Kalena Tavares for their time and effort and assisting me when I needed someone the most, they didn't just treat me like a patient. They treated me like family.
And I will forever recommend this amazing law firm for all of your law. Needs, thank you guys, you're the best.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Shakima spence
Excellent experience with Riddle & Riddle consultation. Having the time to take out of their day to come to my home and visit me was truly a blessing. A time where I needed to be heard and listened to gave me a sense of peace. I truly appreciate them and the kind, warm spirit that Riddle & Riddle have. I highly recommend them to anyone who is in need. Thank you Kevin C.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Taylor edwards
I cannot thank Barbara enough for her help in my personal injury case. She truly cares for her clients and goes above and beyond. I highly recommend!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Heather mceachern
A really great lawyer. I would definitely use again. A lot more responsive than most other Asheville lawyers.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Elspeth oliver
Barbara is amazing. She is incredibly talented, sweet, caring, funny, professional and has your back. She works so hard to make things right. She is absolutely fabulous. She is the only person I would ever trust with my legal issues. I’m so glad she is my lawyer.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Jeremie woodall
Dasher Law changed my life. I worked with Catherine Smith and through a very difficult processes she was able to provide the guidance and recommendations to allow me to move forward. I can not recommend Dasher Law highly enough. They care about their clients are take a kind (yet assertive) approach to making sure the best outcome is achieved. Amazing team and organization.
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13 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I am so thankful that Lindsey was my attorney. Lindsay and her team made an incredibly difficult time so much easier to manage. I wanted things to be as amicable as possible and I know I found the right person who cared about family as much as I did. She is as kind and empathetic as she is organized and smart. She did better for me than I could have hoped and would refer her to anyone.
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17 Feb, 2023 by Traci hord
I had the pleasure of working with Catherine Smith during a difficult time in my life. Her knowledge and experience was exceptional, but her compassion for me as her client was something that outweighed all of her gifts. I highly recommend her for any legal needs you may have. Catherine will not only represent you, she will support you every step of the way.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Jesse stevens
I contacted this number for help with a DMV hearing. I was told it was going to be 200$ to get started with pulling records and going over them. All pretty standard except how little I actually got for the 200$. Spent maybe an hour on the phone for 3 minutes of information. Then I was quoted 2k for the hearing help. I would look down the street.
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17 Jan, 2025 by Courtney warner
09 Jan, 2025 by Gene figuereoa
I am very pleased with the attentiveness to date with this law firm. Everyone is polite and caring. I tried using a different form but they were very unorganized and not very responsive. Thank you
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07 Aug, 2024 by Jeremie woodall
Dasher Law changed my life. I worked with Catherine Smith and through a very difficult processes she was able to provide the guidance and recommendations to allow me to move forward. I can not recommend Dasher Law highly enough. They care about their clients are take a kind (yet assertive) approach to making sure the best outcome is achieved. Amazing team and organization.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Jeremie
Dasher Law changed my life. I worked with Catherine Smith and through a very difficult processes she was able to provide the guidance and recommendations to allow me to move forward. I can not recommend Dasher Law highly enough. They care about their clients are take a kind (yet assertive) approach to making sure the best outcome is achieved. Amazing team and organization.
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17 Feb, 2023 by Traci hord
I had the pleasure of working with Catherine Smith during a difficult time in my life. Her knowledge and experience was exceptional, but her compassion for me as her client was something that outweighed all of her gifts. I highly recommend her for any legal needs you may have. Catherine will not only represent you, she will support you every step of the way.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Casey e
Brandon was my attorney and he was an absolutely amazing attorney! He was always on top of everything. I was never worried that he would forget about anything and he was always fast at responding to any questions. I felt at ease knowing that he was representing me. If I ever need another attorney, he will be my first call.
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26 Oct, 2024 by Shannon gray
Mr.Remington represented my son on 2 cases and both were dismissed. He is highly recommended and worty every penny! Thank you Mr.Remington! You guys are awesome
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30 Sep, 2024 by Rebecca patterson
14 Jan, 2025 by David rogers
Zac is the best highly recommend!!! Cannot say enough good things about him
thanks for your help
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22 Dec, 2024 by Jeff eckert
Beau is a confident and skilled attorney who is passionate about winning.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Sean bloos
Mr. Brooks is hands down the BEST attorney in Union and Mecklenburg counties. Whether you are seeking a divorce attorney, someone to fight your speeding ticket, or have a serious criminal case, this is who you want to represent you in court. He is not afraid to go to trial and will not back down under any circumstances. 10/10 stars for Mr. Brooks.... although I wish I could give him more.
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5.0
22 Reviews
4.8
25 Reviews
24 Feb, 2025 by Reynaldo perez
My family worked with Mr. Jacob Beeson on a property matter. Mr. Beeson was able to help us resolve this complicated and emotional circumstance. We came to Mr. Beeson with a specific goal in mind and he went above and beyond our expectation. He was very diligent with communications and logistics with setting expectations. We will always use Jacob and his team at Kirk Sanders Law.
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20 Feb, 2025 by Adam
First off let me start by saying Mr. Bennett is an absolute amazing person and attorney, as well as his paralegal Mrs. Kimberly. She is just as hard working as he is. My situation was really crazy with the way that it happened. When I first contacted Mr. Bennett and explained everything, he was super honest and told me exactly what I needed to do because of how things unfolded these last few years. Once he got the lay of the situation, he dove straight in and got to work doing what he does best, representing his clients to his full potential. I've have been using him since August of 2024 and his dedication and understanding of my situation this whole time shows that he isn't just a lawyer who wants your money. He has gone out of his way, even on his off time to call and check in with me. If you honestly want someone who is honest, and will be honest with you from the start, I highly recommend Mr. Bennett. I appreciate all you have done for me sir.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Jenn heath
09 Jul, 2024 by Josephine buchanan
Clifford law firm was to represent my son in 2 counties both wake and sampson. He showed up once in wake none in sampson after being paid to be my son's rep. I would not hear from him nor my daughter in law would see him attend to business. The man mumbles and I could not understand most of what he was saying even though he was apprised I am hard of hearing. 20 months and nothing he said he would do was done. I even hesitate to give one star he deserves none.
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21 May, 2024 by Phil black
03 May, 2024 by Jeffrey
Super professional and always on point. We were able match with our expectant mother and Angel guided us along the way and checked in often to motivate and encourage us. We finalized our adoption in about 4 months. Would not recommend anyone else but Angel.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Michael schutz
I cannot recommend Allison highly enough. From the very beginning, she demonstrated incredible professionalism, deep expertise, and a genuine commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for me. Divorce is never easy, but Allison made the process much more manageable with her clear communication, empathetic approach, and strategic thinking.
She was always available to answer my questions, no matter how small, and provided invaluable guidance throughout the entire process. Allison is not only a skilled attorney but also a compassionate advocate who truly understands the emotional challenges that come with divorce. She fought for my interests with determination and integrity, and I always felt confident knowing she was on my side.
Thanks to Allison's expertise and dedication, I was able to navigate this difficult time with a sense of peace and confidence. If you are looking for a divorce lawyer who is knowledgeable, supportive, and truly cares about her clients, Allison is the one you want in your corner.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Shelley spears
30 Jul, 2024 by Tim hurlburt
Great experience! Listens and guides as necessary. Very helpful even goes beyond the extra mile. Honest. Takes time to fully explain things when you need to understand. Very satisfied and highly recommend.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Foster
Derek helped me with my divorce and his legal council was really helpful and he took care of everything for me and the whole process was easy and fast
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04 May, 2023 by Erin
Mr. Mace was professional and courteous. He explained everything clearly so I could understand all legalities of the situation. Worked quickly with my documents and was reasonably priced for all services. Highly recommend!
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03 Apr, 2023 by Elizabeth
I was sued for full custody and equitable distribution. I met with Mr. Mace multiple times to go over my cases. He listened to everything I had to say and took charge. I got full custody with the exception of one day every two weeks visitation and the equitable distribution worked out in my favor as well. Thank you Mr. Mace for your help in all of this.
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05 Nov, 2019 by Trey
Mr. Webb is truly a professional. He helped me resolve my case quickly and easily. He is very upfront and honest. I felt completely in the right hands after I hired him. I would recommend him to anyone looking for help getting a divorce.
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28 Sep, 2018 by David
We hired Mr Webb to assist us in the process of adopting our two boys. He was very professional and very helpful throughout.
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08 Aug, 2018 by Michael
I had the opportunity one day to speak to Richard in passing. Not knowing that Richard was a divorce lawyer, I asked if he knew a divorce lawyer. Richard informed me that he was in fact a divorce lawyer. After a brief conversation, I hired Richard to handle my divorce. Richard was thorough in explaining the divorce procedure as well as mine and my soon to be ex wife's roll in these procedures. Richard was timely in returning my calls or emails. As well as taking the time to address each of my questions and making sure I fully understood the response.
Richard made this stressful process as easy as possible. I would recommend Richard to anyone needing this service.
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06 Sep, 2024 by Luciana sobral
Kerry is so knowledgeable and helpful. She really cares and listens to you. She is extremely honest and amazing. I 100% recommend her to anyone that needs support.
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14 Aug, 2024 by V brooks - bellamy
Where do I start! Attorney Westmoreland is a breath of fresh air. I literally felt supported, seen, and heard from our initial intake. She has a very calm but confident disposition and her angle to support rest in the realm of knowledge. So she knows her stuff and is ready to fight with and for you to get you the help you need. So grateful. Every business has legal matters at times - it comes with the territory, don't hesitate to get the support you need.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Jeffrey greene
27 Feb, 2025 by Sarah ganieany
Ms. Miranda and her paralegal Angela were so helpful in navigating a stressful situation. They were both very communicative about what to expect and responsive whenever questions arose. It really helped to give me peace of mind throughout the process!
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27 Feb, 2025 by Eddie lampkin
Sarah Miranda is the ultimate professional. If youre looking for smooth process and an attorney who will fight for you, Attorney Miranda is the ONLY option. I am so happy I chose to work with Sarah and her team. Thank you so much, Sarah Miranda!!
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24 Feb, 2025 by Michelle arriaga
I am so happy that I chose to go with Miranda‘s Law Firm. It has been a very pleasant experience for the Step parent Adoption of my twins. Every time I had a question, Every time I needed anything from them, they were right on it. I never had to wait for a phone call or a text back. If you are looking for the best Adoption attorney in Cumberland County look no farther.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Paul kakouras
04 Dec, 2024 by Carolyn wallace
My experience was very positive. Everything went just like she said it would. She was available for questions. Ms Caitlin was great too! She was always available. I would definitely recommend this office.
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04 Dec, 2024 by 2solidshonte
Highly recommend!
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02 Mar, 2025 by Clarence cornish
02 Mar, 2025 by Rimon rozario
01 Mar, 2025 by Angie frye
04 Dec, 2024 by Elijah vanclief
13 Nov, 2024 by Greg niebylski
Great Customer Service and communication from the front office staff and the attorney who helped me. I had pleasure to work with Chris Shelburn who was knowledgeable about the relevant law and able to successfully assist me from start to finish. Great legal advice I would recommend to any friend or family in need.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Sreemanth gollamudi
Best in town
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5.0
9 Reviews
4.5
175 Reviews
19 Dec, 2024 by Dwayne stafford
The Worst!!!!!
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23 Oct, 2024 by Cori caggiano
Writing this review because of the unacceptable and costly administrative errors made during the handling of my case. Egregious errors include the attorney failing to prepare any argument points for negotiation, blaming his performance on his failing memory, double billing for hours already paid for, and ultimately *losing my settlement check* within his own office. He billed me for time he spent looking for the check he had misplaced, and withdrew funds from my settlement check without permission or providing a bill for services. I know these administrative errors are atypical for law firms. Unfortunately, I made a poor choice in choosing this firm to represent me.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Brett leasure
01 Jan, 2025 by Lisa smith
10 Dec, 2024 by Leslie sheppard
One of my go to law firms for residential real estate closings for my clients! Excellent communication and responsiveness! I highly recommend this firm! A++
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26 Nov, 2024 by Chad collins
19 May, 2016 by Anastasia
Ms. Herring's firm was easy to work with and very helpful throughout the entire process. I'm a 3 time gestational carrier and still need guidance and reminders of the next steps, which is exactly what I received. It was a pleasure working with Ms. Herring and all of her amazing staff.
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11 May, 2016 by Roger
I've had to good fortune to know Parker since she was recommended to me during my divorce some 20 years ago. Through the years, we've stayed in touch, and I have recommended her to numerous friends in need of help with divorce or adoption. Hands down, Parker is one of the best family practice attorneys in the region. As impressive as her command of the legal ins and outs of divorce, what I found - and still find - most impressive is her command of how to manage the emotional aspects of divorce (especially when children are involved as was the case with my case) with the negotiation strategies that's needed. Parker's advice was spot on about when, what and how I should advocate for myself, and her focus on the long term picture helped me navigate the short-term emotional mess when a marriage dissolves. When I felt indignant or angry over a counter-offer about some minor debt my "future former" and I shared, Parker wisely counseled, "Roger, in the long run this is pocket change. It's not worth the fight because there are more important issues for us to take a stand on."
And she was right. Years later that advice to focus on what's really important in the long-run (that helped design a fair separation agreement that didn't engender long-term resentment) helped us work through a particularly thorny financial issue. And Parker was there right by my side again offering just the right guidance to help me come out of that negotiation (we were able to avoid court, thankfully) in a = good place. Moreover, Parker went out of her way to help keep my legal costs to a minimum.
Parker's a great attorney, a great individual and I'm proud to say a great friend. I cannot recommend her highly enough.
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10 May, 2016 by Jackie
Parker Herring is an excellent family lawyer who guided me through a difficult divorce. She is thorough, professional, compassionate, and experienced in every aspect of the divorce procedure. Parker was not only my legal counsel but she was my friend, guide, and protector throughout the divorce. I always felt safe and secure knowing that she would give me her best everyday.
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10 May, 2019 by Rex
Best thing since Denny Crane. Used for both domestic and business issues in the past few years.
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4.7
14 Reviews
4.9
164 Reviews
28 Jan, 2025 by Robert honeycutt
Always contacted me in a timely and professional manner
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24 Jan, 2025 by Eric ramirez
My experience went very well. They were very informative and easy to work with. They took care of my divorce process very smoothly, didn't have to do much but sign papers and they took care of the rest. Would recommend. Thank you Stephen e. Robertson and team.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Parth parikh
09 Dec, 2021 by Charles
Sam Spagnola is a very knowledgeable, professional, and principled attorney. He did an outstanding job with my child custody case, all the while looking out for the best interests of my children the entire time. Mr. Spagnola will provide you the facts of the law, be upfront with matters at hand, protect your interests and guide you through the process.
I cannot thank Mr. Spagnola and his paralegal, Heather Owens, enough for all they have done for my family.
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15 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
sam and his paralegal heather realy stays on top of everything. price is very fair.
being a veteran i was treated with respect.
highly recommend sam.
thx mike D USAF VET.
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16 Sep, 2020 by Amber
I am so glad I decided to hire Sam for my child support case. After almost a year of back and forth, no fault to Sam of course, my case has been finalized. Sam knew the laws around my case and everything went in my favor because of his arguments during our hearing. He truly fought for me and for that I will forever be grateful. Worth every penny.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Jayden kadiya
A friend and I were falsely accused, and from the second we met Dustin, the case was smooth-sailing, he exercises incredible professionalism and maturity. The situation was resolved with minimal stress and little effort from my end. Dustin had a sizeable role to play in saving my future and I couldn't recommend him more.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Nicholas ivers
I have used Mr.Dow multiple times across many years his prices are 100% Reasonable and came out with the favor of the courts on my side every time. He’s very calm and reassuring in the most stressful situations. He’s the best criminal defense lawyer in Asheville.
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19 Jun, 2024 by James parris
Honestly the most professional and efficient lawyer i have ever met. He does exactly what he says he is going to and his results are beyond impressive. Couldn't recommend a better Lawyer.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Danny ray
He was amazing and very recommended he very good and ty u Lloyd Kelso
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31 Jan, 2025 by Rise bolch
I highly recommend Attorney Lloyd Kelso, I used him several years ago, and currently. He is very respectful and professional and has years of experience. He explained everything to me in terms I could understand which gave me great peace of mind. I greatly appreciate his expertise, patience, and his kind demeanor.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Victoria o'leary
Mr. Kelso helped me back in 2014. Today in 2025, I am still reaping the benefits of Kelso's great mind of the law. His 47 years of law experience has become priceless for me and my family. Kelso always kept a very professional and gentlemen like demeanor. I would recommend Lloyd Kelso to many people, family, and friends.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Joshua kesling
Andrew is a fantastic addition to this team. He cares and does a very good job for his clients.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Thomas barber
Working with Mr.Gantt and his staff was a smooth process. His experience kept me calm through out this whole process.
Thanks
Gantt Fanily
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04 Aug, 2024 by Michael cornelius
Richard and his team really listened to try and understand my situation early on which was huge for me. They worked diligently to ensure that I was awarded 50/50 custody of my children which was my main goal in contacting his firm. If you are in need of an divorce attorney, I’d highly recommend giving Richard a call!
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10 Jan, 2025 by Joshua kesling
Andrew is a fantastic addition to this team. He cares and does a very good job for his clients.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Thomas barber
Working with Mr.Gantt and his staff was a smooth process. His experience kept me calm through out this whole process.
Thanks
Gantt Fanily
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04 Aug, 2024 by Michael cornelius
Richard and his team really listened to try and understand my situation early on which was huge for me. They worked diligently to ensure that I was awarded 50/50 custody of my children which was my main goal in contacting his firm. If you are in need of an divorce attorney, I’d highly recommend giving Richard a call!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Monty losey
I was most fortunate to choose Smith, Dickey & Dempster! Michael Fiala personally handled my traffic violation in a timely and favorable manner! It was obvious from my outcome that Michael’s expertise and due diligence is a testament to the caliber of service you receive at Smith, Dickey & Dempster!
Thank you Michael!
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02 Jan, 2025 by Katrina dansby
They were very responsive fast and reliable. Thank you for helping me with my case from 1998. From New Jersey
All done in one day!
You did an awesome speedy job!
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18 Dec, 2024 by Mark tebo
I hired Michael Fiala to handle my case and it was the best decision I ever made. I contracted with his law firm two days ago as my court case isn’t until the end of January 2025 and just today received word that they’ve dismissed my case. Wow, I was blown away that they were proactive in resolving my case well before the actual due date. I would highly Recommend this law firm. Great job and thank you for all you did Michael.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Lg lists
30 Jan, 2025 by Marcus stanley
23 Jan, 2025 by Cincear weaver
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Adoption Lawyer Can Do for You
An adoption lawyer specializes in navigating the legal complexities of the adoption process, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved - the adoptive parents, birth parents, and the child - are protected. They assist families through the different types of adoption, such as domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, and private adoptions. Adoption lawyers ensure that the adoption process complies with state, federal, and international laws, and handle any legal issues that may arise during the process, such as terminating parental rights, conducting home studies, and finalizing the adoption.
If you're looking to adopt or if you're a birth parent considering placing your child for adoption, an adoption lawyer can guide you through the legal requirements and ensure the process goes smoothly.
When Should I Hire an Adoption Lawyer?
You should consider hiring an adoption lawyer in the following situations:
- Private or independent adoption: If you’re adopting a child directly from the birth parents without the involvement of an adoption agency, a lawyer is essential to draft and review all legal documents, including consent forms and parental rights termination agreements.
- Foster care adoption: If you’re adopting a child from foster care, a lawyer can help navigate the legal process, ensure the child’s eligibility for adoption, and represent you in court to finalize the adoption.
- Stepparent or relative adoption: If you’re adopting a stepchild or a relative, a lawyer can assist in terminating the parental rights of the biological parent and ensure the adoption is completed legally and efficiently.
- International adoption: International adoptions are complex, involving multiple layers of laws from the U.S. and the child’s birth country. A lawyer can help navigate immigration requirements and ensure compliance with international treaties like the Hague Convention.
- Contested adoptions: If a birth parent changes their mind about the adoption or there is a dispute over parental rights, a lawyer can represent you in court and ensure that the adoption proceeds legally.
- Adoption for same-sex couples: If you're a same-sex couple looking to adopt, a lawyer can help ensure that your adoption complies with state laws and that both parents have equal legal rights to the child.
- Birth parent representation: If you’re a birth parent considering adoption, a lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, help you understand the legal implications of terminating parental rights, and ensure that your decision is legally sound.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help avoid legal complications and ensure that the adoption is legally finalized as smoothly as possible.
What Does an Adoption Lawyer Do?
An adoption lawyer provides a variety of legal services, ensuring that the adoption process is completed in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing legal paperwork: Adoption lawyers handle all the necessary paperwork, including petitions to terminate parental rights, consent forms, and final adoption decrees. They ensure that the adoption is in line with state, federal, and international laws.
- Conducting home studies: Some adoptions require a home study to evaluate the prospective adoptive family. While a social worker usually conducts the study, a lawyer can ensure that the process complies with legal requirements and that the report is submitted correctly.
- Terminating parental rights: Lawyers assist in terminating the legal rights of the biological parents, either voluntarily through signed consent or involuntarily through court proceedings if necessary.
- Representing clients in court: Adoption lawyers represent adoptive parents, birth parents, or other parties in court hearings to finalize the adoption or resolve disputes.
- Navigating international adoption laws: For international adoptions, a lawyer helps ensure that all legal requirements, both in the U.S. and the child’s home country, are met, including securing the child’s visa and citizenship.
- Providing legal advice: Adoption lawyers guide clients through each step of the adoption process, advising them on their rights and obligations, as well as any potential legal issues that may arise.
- Drafting post-adoption agreements: In some cases, especially open adoptions, a lawyer can help draft post-adoption agreements that specify the level of contact between the adoptive and birth parents.
How Are Adoption Lawyers Paid?
Adoption lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the adoption and the time involved. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many adoption lawyers charge a flat fee for handling the entire adoption process. This is common for straightforward adoptions, such as stepparent or foster care adoptions, where the legal work is relatively predictable.
- Hourly rate: For more complex adoptions, such as contested or international adoptions, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: In cases where the adoption process may take longer or involve more legal work (e.g., termination of parental rights or court disputes), a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, so you understand the total cost of the adoption and any additional expenses that may arise during the process.
How Much Does an Adoption Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an adoption lawyer depends on the type of adoption and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:
- Stepparent or relative adoption: Legal fees for these types of adoptions typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on whether the adoption is contested or requires a court hearing.
- Domestic private adoption: The legal fees for a private adoption usually range from $5,000 to $10,000, including drafting documents, terminating parental rights, and finalizing the adoption in court.
- International adoption: International adoptions are generally more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the adoption and the child’s country of origin.
- Contested adoption: If the adoption is contested and involves court disputes, legal fees may range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the length and complexity of the court proceedings.
In addition to lawyer fees, adoptive parents should also be aware of additional costs such as court filing fees, home study fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
Top Questions to Ask an Adoption Lawyer
Before hiring an adoption lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
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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.
