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17 Apr, 2018 by Robin
Amy made all things possible and easy in the adoption of our granddaughter. Her work was prompt and professional. It’s easy to see Amy truly cares about the child’s best interests.
Thank you Amy for making our dream a reality.
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04 Apr, 2017 by Lauren
Upon receiving high recommendations regarding the work of Ms. Davis, my husband and I hired her to help with the legal aspects of adopting our son. I cannot say enough praises about the work that she did for us. Adoption can be an incredibly stressful journey but with the expertise and reliability of Ms. Davis it was very comforting to know we were in such good hands. I could rely on Ms. Davis for prompt and clear responses to my numerous questions, she approached our legal needs with enthusiasm and care, and the vast knowledge she has of adoption law was necessary to complete our adoption process. I highly recommend Ms. Davis.
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15 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
We are so thankful to have found Amy. Our adoption is somewhat complicated and she has provided honest advice, has proven her knowledge of the system, and has even been willing to "talk us off the ledge" late in the evening when we felt overwhelmed by the uncertainty in the process. She is flexible but also straightforward when she feels that a particular course of action is best. I truly believe that she cares about us, our child, and our relationship with the birth mother, which is extremely important to us. She also has a good sense of humor, which is always appreciated during stressful times!
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05 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Tom Floeter is an excellent attorney. He helped me fight my divorce case very well. He helped me tremendously in communicating with my ex-husband to help me get through the case. He was knowledgeable and was prepared to handle challenging issues in my case. He allowed the process to unfold at its own pace which allowed both parties to take the time to make a clear decision to their best advantage. I have no words for it how nicely he handled my case. I am ever so grateful to him for that and would recommend him to anyone seeking for this type of help.
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21 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
I ended up paying another lawyer to fix the mess he made of my Dad's estate. So now have paid for it twice. On top of that he would not return any of my retainer , or my files.
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09 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
He messed up my custody case by not researching the our statutes. He also filed paperwork incorrectly and and didn't properly serve my ex wife. Lost my case because of him.
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14 May, 2019 by Bob
Attn: Jan Baliles, Attorney at Law 6 May 2919
Generally, the average person seldom finds themselves in need of an attorney but once they do , the search begins. Similar to the medical field, one finds lawyers, like doctors specialize. So now the search begins based on your particular situation. In my case I didn't have family or friends to make a recommendation so I went to the yellow pages and settled on an attorney in a practice by themselves. I knew the multi membered ones would be more expensive. I selected Attorney Janese M. Baliles. Sure enough it was the right choice. That was about two decades ago. I was very comfortable with her as she listened attentively to my situation and ultimately solved my problem. Since then, every time I've need legal help she has consistently and reasonably resolved my problems, even to the extent requiring us to travel out of town.
I have no reservations about highly recommending Jan for a wide number of issues.
Bob LT. USN (retired)
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05 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Janese helped us get our family home sold. We had heirs that were difficult to reach. She took care of all of the details and was able to get us much more money for the property than we ever thought we would get. We were so glad to have her as our attorney. We were all so happy with the mo day that we got.
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12 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I had such a positive experience working with Jan! She is such a warm and friendly woman. She is very professional and it is obvious from the start how smart she is and how much knowledge she has in her field. She helped us with a very complicated case and we could not have been more thrilled with the outcome. We highly recommend her!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Proported
Mr. Louis is by far the best attorney I have ever dealt with. Very understanding and always responds fast. He helped me prove my innocence and I could never thank him enough.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Andre lipscomb
They are the best really great folks
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09 Sep, 2024 by Jane heath
07 Apr, 2024 by Janeth gutierrez
07 Apr, 2024 by Fidel camacho
28 Jun, 2023 by David thaddeus
Honest, blunt and to the point. Very knowledgeable, insightful, and even pleasant! I think Mr. Hastings is a one-in-a-billion attorneys. I highly recommend him for your legal needs. Thanks for all you do Mr. Hastings
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02 Jun, 2022 by Christine swanson
Both parties were very nice. Miss panetti stated that she would be back in touch with me one way or the other but that wasn't true but it's okay because I knew that she wouldn't be but it would have been nice if she had
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05 May, 2021 by Dg hester
23 May, 2020 by Tom da bomb
01 Apr, 2024 by Kriste s
Jim is an outstanding attorney who exceeded my expectations and got me the best outcome possible. I consulted multiple attorneys prior to finding Jim; no one came close to his level of professionalism and experience. Jim was an invaluable resource during a very difficult time and he truly has his clients' best interests in mind. I cannot recommend Jim more highly.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Kurt elkins
Had to find new law firm because this one lied to us and here is the last email I sent to their office after finally getting my documents back along with half retainer due to the non refundable clause in the contact. Even though they breached the contract with dishonesty and poor standard of care. Placing my grievance with the state for our wasted time and funds.
email from me to office manager:
Is it a breach of contract to lie to your client or just a breach of ethics? We have honored our side of the contract with the expectation to get honest representation and a standard of care. Now we have a huge waste of time and money because of the professional performance of your firm. I will attach the email communication that proves that we have been told two different statements. First being an email labeled (receipts), In which I provided Mrs. Frey with the receipts she requested. In her response, "I have reviewed the discovery served upon you and have made my objections; I'll scan over to you once I return to the office. Along with it, I'll send you a tip sheet to make the process less daunting".. Document was never sent. A week later, I asked through email for an update on our CS case since I have heard nothing since the last email stating that she would scan and send documents. Her reply was "how's it going with the discovery?". Which is ridiculous to ask seeing as she had the discovery and never sent it back with the corrected questionnaire. I responded, informing her that she has the discovery and was reviewing it last week. Her response was " just double checked, looks pretty straight forward!"..... This is completely opposite of what was said the week before. Both cannot be true and can only conclude that one statement is a lie. This is a complete abandonment of trust along with the lackadaisical update on our case, especially when I am asking on a Friday evening whether we are showing up for court Monday morning because I have gotten no word from my paid attorney.
I believe this is gross negligence of standard of care from your firm. I will leave a detailed review of my experience with your firm and place my grievance with the state.
This is a very important matter to my family and I. I hope that other cases you have, that you treat them with more respect and care than we have received.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Tommy sullivan
06 Sep, 2024 by Aj yuka
Yolanda M. Trotman is someone you want at your side when things are tough and uncertain. I was pleased with the service I was given. The main office is professional and very friendly. If they don't pick up the phone do not freak out. Give it some time and call or shoot a email they are working hard for many people.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Mandy deese
Thankfully Yolanda took my nasty dog custody case that was making my life hell when other firms didn’t know where to start. Even working in legal myself I needed assistance. She was professional in court and had the respect of others. She did what I hoped she would do, rip my lying ex to pieces in cross examination. The results were favorable to me. She is an experienced attorney and I’m thankful she took my case! Thank you, Yolanda. ❤️
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08 Jun, 2024 by Dear jania
Yolanda is a excellent attorney. I trust her completely and her services are professional and reliable. Highly recommend to hire for any legal issue. You want a attorney who cares and is dependable.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Elizabeth jackson
outstanding law firm
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21 May, 2024 by Lauren tew
One of the best law firms that I know of. Amazing attorneys, friendly staff, what more could you want?
I have been a frequent customer of this law firm for over a year now and, let me tell you, each time I come in, I am greeted with warm smiles and a welcoming atmosphere. This firm really puts the 'family' in 'family law'. Love it!!
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15 Mar, 2024 by Kricket hughes
I hired charlene back in 2021 after my other attorney resigned with no notice after5 years When I presented my case to her she educated me on so much when no one else did during consultations. I see why now she is voted best in harnett county. After 8.5 years total fighting custody battles. Charlene did what she was suppose to not only looked out for me as her client she looked out for my child and her best interest we finally ended this fight this March without a trial like we were suppose to and im so glad. She got me what I wanted. I'm so thankful I wish I was able to have had her from the start but im thankful for now. I would give charlene and april a 10/10
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14 May, 2021 by Karri
I was desperate to find an attorney that would take my very complicated custody case that spanned 3 states. Jennifer was/is amazing!!! She jumped right in and went to work! She is very personable and treats you like a friend.
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09 Jul, 2020 by Lynn
I had hired Jennifer as my attorney. She checked to see if there would be a conflict of interest to which she replied that there wasn't. Yesterday, she informed me by email and not telephone, that she could not represent me because a conflict of interest that was found and she could not relate to me what it was. I expected to be refunded the full amount of the retainer that I had paid to her. This was her fault and not mine. She should have been well aware if there was a conflict of interest. However, only a portion was returned to me. The full amount would have been enough to pay my new attorney. This is costing me a lot of money. I could never do this to someone else. I know that she put work into this and I was willing to pay a small amount for her services but that was not to be. Like I said, it is not my fault that she just found out there was a conflict of interest. That is on her and she should absorb the cost.
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29 Mar, 2018 by Debbie
Sorry, just not impressed. Guess my expectations set too high from previous professionals.
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29 Jun, 2021 by Tamara davis
Attorney Lisa Stewart was an angel Sent From Heaven for us we would have been lost without her she worked with my son to get his child back to safety she even came from another County to have paperwork signed she will go the extra mile our family will forever be grateful for the work that she's doing to keep a child safe
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06 Nov, 2017 by Teresa
I was referred to Lisa by another attorney, so I was remiss in doing my normal research before calling her office. To say that I was disappointed in the lack of follow-through, preparation and skill of our case is a sore understatement. During the initial meeting with Lisa, she advised that she would pull a copy of the paperwork later that morning when she went to the courthouse. 4 days later, in the courtroom. AFTER the case had started, I found out that Lisa had not even read the case notes, knew nothing about what she was going to say to the judge and was bordering on the edge of incompetence in our case. I will never recommend or use her services again. Lesson learned on due diligence when so much is at stake.
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27 Jan, 2011 by Arlene
I ONLY GOT TO USE LISA FOR A POA FOR MY SISTER BUT SHE WENT OUT OF HER WAY TO HELP ME ACCOMPLISH THIS. SHE
DID NOT LEAVE UNTIL I WAS TOTALLY SATISFIED.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Tanner x
THEIVES! We used them to handle a workers comp case and they tried to steal over $5000 by sneaking behind our backs and lied in writing!
We only found out when one of them let it slip discussing that they received their check weeks prior and we have been ignored and left in the cold for months trying to get paid, even after signing papers and settling! Do not trust these people (Greensboro Office) Cannot believe after they get $20,000+ they have the nerve and greed to attempt stealing another $5,000 illegally.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Charles hill
Losing your home is a horrible experience and this law firm doesn't give damn about you or your circumstances. You're doing everything to come up with the money and this law firm's fees is what will get you because they add more whenever they feel like it and whatever amount they feel like. I called and told them that I'd finally come up with all of the money and two days later they added 6,000 with only a few days for me to come up with money or lose my house. I literally collasped and I hope to never have to deal with them again.
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25 Sep, 2023 by Matt
07 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Mrs. Riddick and her law firm were absolutely the best possible experience I could've asked for when dealing with my divorce. She was there with me every step of the way and her paralegal was always very calm and helpful. Mrs. Riddick consistently had my file up to date and everything done way ahead of time. I cannot recommend her enough!!
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22 Mar, 2017 by Eddie
Divorce is not fun, and regardless if you are a man or women its difficult to cope with our emotions. My EX(soon to be) had a temp restraining order the night before I was leaving for a annual company meeting, it was planned as a strategy between her and her Atty, we had been married my second marriage for only 18 months and had started stealing large sums of money to boot. Anyway, I called a few Atty's not being from Mooresville I was lost, also being on other side of the US the day after I was given 20 minutes to grab belongings out of my home, I was not in best mental state. They were the only firm that listened to me story and accepted a small retainer sight unseen. They have stayed in touch the last year and as I move to Colorado for business they have been wonderful to finish things on my behalf. Patricia has a great team, July especially has been great. I would highly recommend
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04 Sep, 2015 by Donna
My appt. was for 4:30 pm and I was not seen until 5:20 pm. No apology for an almost hour delay was given. Communication of some sort - so that I could have chosen to reschedule - would have been nice. Apparently my time is of no value to her. I will continue looking for a lawyer who shows some semblance of caring. I felt that she would not be a strong advocate for me.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Umbrella investments llc
Was consulting with them about a matter I was wronged in. And was continually cut off and brushed off. They don't work they don't listen! As I'm now seeing this is the same complaint in many other reviews. I was just yelled at by an attorney because I was asking questions. Find another law firm! Trust me I've dealt with many attorneys this is not the one you want to do business with. Have tried to work with multiple lawyers in this firm. They all give the same nonchalant vibe!
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09 May, 2024 by Jeanette hendricks
I was given info on LegalShield through a representative who came to my job. I signed up and had a matter that I needed legal assistance with. I called and spoke with an attorney who was extremely unprofessional, he kept cutting across me, jumped to conclusions and offered me no options to help resolve the matter, stated that the representative who spoke to the employees lied and gave misinformation, was NOT empathetic to my situation, very cold and lacked decorum. I called back to report it to a customer service representative and she never apologized for my bad experience or encounter, she too was non empathetic. This law firm has individuals who lack social and emotional awareness for people who call and are just trying to get some direction and insight. And even if you can't help, it's a way to do and say things. From the other reviews I'm seeing, I'm not shocked at the experience I had today. LegalShield certainly needs other attorney options for NC!
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03 Apr, 2024 by Sara mcglynn
Incompetence at its best. Unable to respond in a timely manner leaving important issues in limbo.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Once hired -Very bad with returning emails and phone calls. She told me she was filing my case but instead went on vacation for a week. She didn't inform me she was going away and I didn't find out until I tried to reach her to follow-up on the status of my filing. She was not organized. When she returned it was too late, so we lost jurisdiction! I asked her what are we going to do now and her response was "I don't know what you are going to do. You need to try to find an attorney in that jurisdiction." I had to go to that jurisdiction to file my own paperwork at the courthouse!!! She did finish out my case however, my case still has lingering issues and I don't feel comfortable reaching out to her because my experience was so bad. I would not recommend her services unless you are ready take on the work yourself!
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03 May, 2023 by Jonathan
I paid 3k and the only thing she did is continued my child support case for the whole 2022 year. Than smile in your face and next thing you get a letter from her requesting from the courts not to represent you anymore after you express disappointment because its been lingering for a whole year almost. In return you receive from her a email talking bout her rates and how much she charged but the only thing she have been doing is pushing your court case back. I got the job done by representing myself. She don't care about Father Rights it's just another day in the office and easy money for her. I could have saved my money and just represented myself. She'll make it sound good at 1st. She lay out the plan and everything when you give her the money. Next thing when you court she be telling something totally different. She'll request a continous lol. It's funny now but I'll never give her any more of my money ever again .. I wouldn't do this but it's the principle now and I can't let this one ride. She doesn't have a steady office. She always moving somewhere. She all over the place. She need to tighten up. Prepare to take a L if you use her
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20 Mar, 2023 by Brittany
I hired Ms. Williams to represent me in a custody case in 2021, and was very helpful through the entire process. She just helped me win our custody case and I could not be happier! Thanks so much for the help and support. Would definitely recommend her to anyone going through a custody case.
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20 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
I PAID THIS LAWYER ALMOST $3,000 & HE DIDNT DO ANYTHING TO HELP ME IN MY CUSTODY CASE ONLY SIDE WITH THE PLAINTIFF & MAKE ME LOOK BAD. HE HARDLY EVER COMMUNICATED , ANSWERED MY CALLS OR EMAILS. HE NEVER USED ANY OF MY EVIDENCE TO HELP MY CASE OR FILED MOTION ON MY BEHAVE. LAST CONVO HE PROMISED TO FIX MY VISITATION ORDER TO ONLY BE HIT WITH A MOTION PAPER FROM HIM TO WITHDRAW MY CASE WHEN I WAS HIT WITH HEARING AROUND THE CORNER & LEFT ME TO DRY. HE HAS NO EMOTION OR COMPASSION FOR HIS CLIENTS AT ALL . I SWEAR TO YOU HE WAS ABOUT TO MAKE ME LOOSE MY KIDS. WORST EXPERIENCE EVER. PLEASE DONT HIRE THIS LAWYER TAKE YOUR MONEY. IM DISTRAUGHT FROM THIS SITUATION.
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23 Jul, 2020 by Robert
I haven’t ever written a review on anything or anyone in my life.
Mr. Ceruzzi deserves to have some light she’d on the caliber of individual he is. My children were abducted, and removed from the state. This was the result of a highly contentious divorce, spanning over 3 states, foreign custody orders, and enough drama to require weeks for trial prep. I hired Mr. Ceruzzi on a Friday, he represented me on a Monday! He took the time to hear me out, and he’s the first of 4 lawyers in this process that truly cared.
He never mentioned the bias towards men getting custody of children, never uttered one negative outlook on the case, and that’s not a common trait these days.
Mr. Ceruzzi placed my daughters well being above other cases that were more pressing I’m sure! Mr. Ceruzzi is the reason I have full custody of my daughters. He’s the reason they have their own beds to sleep in. He’s the reason I wasn’t forced out of my daughter’s lives.
Words can’t describe how much the acts this man did for my family meant to me.
If you want someone who identifies and is just as passionate as you are about the case at hand... I’d say there is no better option than Mr. Ceruzzi.
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15 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Ceruzzi has assisted in helping my family members in several matters; traffic, eviction, will, and several more. Thanks for a job well done.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Andy captain
I would not recommend you use this law office unless they are offering to do the work for free, and even then I would carefully consider them. They did work for me in September of 2022 for a refinance. Almost 2 years later on Monday August 26th, 2024 I received a phone call stating they had a check for me for over $1400. When I asked what it was for they told me when they did the refi they took out for insurance but then found out it had already been paid out of escrow so they needed to refund me the money. Two years later they realized lol. Wow. They wanted to confirm my address which they did. I live about 3 miles from their office so one week later when I still didn’t have the money they were mailing I called and left a message. The check was still there lol. I guess they figured that 2 years was not enough and I needed to wait longer.
When I picked up the check I asked what is going on down there, why did this take so long? I got a deer in the headlights look from the nice lady at the front who said she would pass along my dissatisfaction. Since no one can give me a reason for this I am going to go out on a limb and call it incompetence. That is something you don’t want from someone representing your interests in any legal matters.
So do yourself a favor. Do not use this incompetent law firm. I am lucky they ever figured it out at all and that I ever got the money back.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Jeremiah gilliland
This Law Office was extremely helpful, personal, and all-around inviting. Highly recommend!
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23 Jan, 2024 by Kym furr
Terrible lawyer for children’s services. What a waste of money
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13 Aug, 2023 by Tina
No I would not hire this attorney ever again. He was paid in full and took years to get in a courtroom. If I dare call him after he was paid he would never return calls or rarely if I did get him on the phone he would scream at me about he had other clients. This was years back but I remember how I was treated.
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02 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
I needed a good attorney to handle my child support case, since it was coming from another state, and a few complicated matters going on. I was told that Lassiter would not begin to work my case until I paid him in full, and I paid him in full earlier this yr. He made 0 calls to the other state to find out about a final hearing, which actually delayed some info. needed for a hearing in NC, in addition, he hardly returned my calls and I had to drive with a fever once to his office, to be treated unfair. I did receive court dates and never papers in the mail from the law firm for the past 7 mos. showing updates on my case, I had to drive in person to the local courthouse to get papers needed about my case, In addition, his secretary-paralegal is extremely rude and even border line control of emails. I have been displeased with the level of service I have received, and my ex husband had plenty of time to get a good lawyer during the longevity of my entire case, which has put me behind in my bills. Please try to find another family law attorney,
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05 Jun, 2020 by Gary
I will forever be grateful to Mr. Lassiter and his fine staff for the work they did representing me.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Sonya riggs
20 Dec, 2023 by Gina reilly
I recently needed legal services and I hired Attorney Curtis.
He was amazing! Seriously I’m so very impressed and so lucky to have had him in my corner!
He was brilliant and really knew how to cross examine someone who was lying and expose them perfectly!
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06 Nov, 2023 by Steve smith
08 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Ashley Michaels to represent me during my separation, it involved a prenup and children. A retainer was paid for my legal fees in the amount of 5000.00 and put into an ILOTA for my legal fees and my use. I told her that I no longer needed her services and I wanted to formally end my separation to my wife. She refused to write up my request. Accusing me of doing things under duress. I wanted to have my attorney write this up because it was what I wanted and I wanted to make sure no one could say my request was done for any other reason then because it was what I wanted. Just because it was not what she thought was best LEGALLY does not mean that it was not the right thing to do for my family. I stated that I wanted a refund of my remaining retainer and I was ending our business together. She then stated that they would cut the check and mail it to a THIRD PARTY and refused to give me my retainer so that I could hire a different attorney to assist in ending my separation with my wife. Her representation of me was terrible. She caused more issues than she resolved. She was unable to make any headway with my wife who was Pro Se. Meaning she had NO attorney. The fact that her office originally lied and stated they had sent the check and then told me that they had not and would send my retainer to someone else and refused to cut me a check for the remaining balance has to be illegal in some way. I have filed formal complaints with NC STATE Bar. I would not do business with her and I question the partners only because they hired her to work in their firm. She has more loyalty to a non client than her actual clients. She is more interested in the money and draining a retainer because once you no longer need her legal services and she cannot bill you she is unhelpful and dishonest.
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02 Apr, 2019 by Christina
She has communicated every step of child custody process. Very professional and maintains contact with me and very responsive.
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29 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
I had a excellent experience working with Mr. Kakassy. Amy was very helpful to help me when I really did not understand what was really needed. I was a easy smooth experience and I would go to Mr. Kakassy again for any additional legal help I might need.
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09 Sep, 2020 by Charles
He represented me in case where I needed to modify my parenting plan. He sat in another room with my ex and giggled and seemed to be more a friend to my ex's attorney than my representation. He kept calling me by another name because he couldn't even remember mine. He was nice until it was game time and didn't care about my case or what was best for my child but rather to just getting it done quickly. I'm still dealing with visitation interference and he did a horrible job with the parenting plan. I absolutely would not recommend Mr Kakassy to any parent who is dealing with co-parenting issues. He's the worst I've ever experienced.
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25 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
He was hired for a custody issue and made me look like an idiot and made copies that wasn't legible. Lucky I had the originals in court and the Judge saw what he was trying to do!! Sabotage His own client!!! I would give him 0 stars if possible!!! He is by far the worst Lawyer ever!!
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16 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
she is first and foremost a liar and second to none in lost and confused person in her life.
After paying a retainer in excess of her childish demands for representation, along with changing schedules for court hearings and then finding out she instead needed a “nose job” thus resulting in no preparation for proper representation during hearings.
this woman needs to shunned and then invested by 1) IRS
2) Bar
Stay away from this fugazzi lawyer
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16 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I paid a retainer to pursue child support, 10 months later nothing had happened. She did not return emails or calls. I fired her and handled the court preceding myself
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17 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Smith acted improperly by e-mailing a Judge outside of the courtroom and having exparte communications with her regarding my case and also interviewing my children in Judge's chambers and asking them questions when he was not allowed to. I would never use this attorney under any circumstances.
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02 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
I informed Mr. Smith four days after he received a $6500.00 check and it cleared that I no longer needed his services. We never signed a contract. That was 11/24/13. I asked for an immediate refund minus $1500.00 for his time & troubles. It is 1/2/14 & I have yet to receive an invoice or any money back. We've been in pretty regular communication, but he still hasn't informed me as to an amount or what exactly he charged me for. I have to report him to the Bar Association & file a fee dispute in order to get a decent amount back.
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07 May, 2022 by Bobbie
I was married for 14 yrs in a marriage that lasted way too long. He left me financially destroyed. My Lycans didn't get me any sort settlement on the divorce. Didn't even try to. In the custody battle, I had 3 cases left to trial, she switched to my ex husband's lawyers law firm & could no longer represent me. So I had to hire another attorney last minute. What was worse is that she had put in her contract that I signed originally that I couldn't get my money back if it happened. So she knew the entire time she was switching to his lawyers lawfirm. Totally screwed me over & has no soul. Do not hire.
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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.
