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24 Oct, 2024 by Danielle frohling
Please, Please be careful with this attorney. He acts like he’s there to help you but he’s not. He will try and get you to make bad deal that’s being offered by the prosecutor. I’m in the process of reporting him to the TN Law Board. If you don’t want to get the worst deal possible or end up going to jail find another lawyer.
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06 May, 2024 by A
Great attorney, I definitely recommend 👍
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08 Mar, 2023 by Lois curry
James represented my son. My son had several felony charges and was facing serious time in prison. He worked wonders and my son now has a second chance to build a new life for himself. I would recommend Mr. Hickman to anyone in Sever county. He knows the law and works it to his clients advantage. Thank you, Mr. Hickman.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Wendi
She was opposing counsel for my ex.
Her initial complaint was riddled with errors, including the fact that we owned land together, which a cursory search or phone call would have verified. The Order setting the hearing had the wrong hearing date and was never actually served to me. There was no duedilligence done by her or her firm. She showed up in court in a sheath dress, sandles and wearing her sunglasses as a "headband". She is the epitomy of unprofessionalism. No matter what they have to say about me, that doesn't negate the blatent mistakes and errors in the filed court documents. Debs and Davy should both be reprimanded for their unbelievable unprofessional and inadequate practice of the law.
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02 Feb, 2023 by Chelsea
I had the best experience with Debbie and her team. They achieved the best outcome for my family. I will forever be grateful for them. I highly recommend this wonderful team. Thank you again for making us whole.
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25 Jul, 2019 by Nicole
I could not have chosen a better law office or attorney to represent myself and my family. Debbie Zimmerle was our super star on more than one occasion when. During a time that was very difficult for us we found comfort and security in speaking with her and knowing our side would be heard in court. She has a presence like no other in the court room and when she speaks her words are mannerly, powerful, and well thought out. She is smart and effective. You can't go wrong with her by your side. The staff is wonderful as well and they make you feel at home and always welcome. We will continue to lean on their services if ever needed and will highly recommend them to anyone we feel is in need of justice.
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19 Sep, 2016 by Leigh ou
David answered an obscure legal question for me pertaining to something that happened to me at a U.S. Consulate in Europe. He managed to find law relevant to my case, and he proposed a solution for me. David found the answer to my question quickly and easily.
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17 Aug, 2016 by Heather
My husband and I hired David for a custody dispute over my nephew. He was always kind, answered our questions appropriately, returned calls promptly and explained the complicated juvenile court system to us. I recommend him to all my friends in need of representation. Our case hasn't always gone as we would have liked but not because of David. He has been wonderful to work with and we wouldn't go elsewhere.
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17 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I've not hired Mr. Veazey myself, but am fam illiar with him through the Occupy Chattanooga lawsuit. Not being one of the main organizers, I was not personally his client. However, Mr. Veazey was clearly a capable attorney who fought for a client with whom the public in Chattanooga had little sympathy.
Later when I thought I needed an attorney, I consulted Mr. Veazey who could have taken my case and charged me quite a bit of money. Instead he directed me to a not-for-profit who would assist me in filing a complaint via a regulatory agency and gave me the name of a more specialized firm to consult if that process was unsuccessful.
If I ever need a lawyer again, he will be my first call.
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05 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I have known Dana for many years and worked with her in a professional capacity before she became an attorney. She was always friendly and even requested my assistance professionally on occasion. I later needed her assistance in a legal matter and she never returned my phone call. She never even a called review the issue with me to determine whether I needed to take legal action. She just ignored my call altogether. I would not recommend her and I am glad she never called me back. Considering her lack of professional courtesy, I do not think she would have provided sound judgment in the matter.
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14 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Ms. Dana Looper and staff were extremely helpful, knowledgeable, gracious, and professional. Being able to put matters in order and get questions and concerns addressed is peace of mind. Seek the best, I did. Thank you.
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09 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Ms. Looper was there for me every step of the way with my case. I highly recommend her for any legal needs. She has a genuine care for her clients and responds in a timely manner.
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31 Dec, 2019 by Marcus
This woman is amazing! I loved her! As a father she got me with residential custodian parent with 50/50. She went up against other great lawyers my ex wife had and stood her grounds no problem. Highly recommend her!!!
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11 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I paid over $3000 for a child support modification case where numerous mistakes were made. I tried to be understanding at first but then when it took a weeks and months to get simple things done I started advising things needed to improve. It took over a year to get a simple child support modification done. My case was never put first . The day before my first scheduled court date at 3:30pm they called to tell me we weren’t having court bc the other party had not been served. They didn’t even make sure that was done right !
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27 Apr, 2018 by Rachel
I hired Haley to take care of my child support case. She has been amazing. She really listens to what I want and fights for it. She's on time to court and the day before court even called to make sure I remembered. She's very nice. I would definitely recommend her. She wasn't like some lawyers where it takes months to get in just to consult. She gets you in fast
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28 Sep, 2024 by Abi kuefler
28 Mar, 2023 by Rachael roppolo
I highly recommend and always gets back to me in a timely matter. Just good people.
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23 Mar, 2023 by Mari townsend
Awesome lawyer
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03 Oct, 2024 by Lyz free
19 Sep, 2024 by Chandiliers
Sorry bums! What was I paying them for?
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16 Sep, 2024 by Russell williamson
10 Jan, 2025 by Paula frater
15 Oct, 2024 by Matthew williams
Shelley breeding is awesome! So helpful and supportive and professional. Thank you Shelley your the best!!!
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15 Oct, 2024 by Bethany heins
Did not look out for her clients best interest and extremely unprofessional. Put us in the worst situation, had to hire a new lawyer.
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30 Nov, 2024 by George cushing
26 Aug, 2024 by Caleb wyatt
24 Aug, 2024 by Jesse robards
Although I'm a staunch supporter of Sean Fry's. I am bewildered by Dana Loopers participation in this law firm. Her actions are deplorable and unconstable at best. She was appointed attorney ad litem for two my children and after she had the facts from the hospital and other sources in hand proving we the parents did nothing wrong, with accompanying affidavits certified, she still chooses support and litigate for the state's position. I would stay away from this attorney at all costs! If you're looking for a good attorney beware she is Not one! I have and I expect others will be filing grievances with the Tennessee bar and board of professional responsibility and I have also filed a federal lawsuit against her see you in court Dana
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06 Aug, 2024 by Cre8tive bird
I had an emergency dealing with child custody situation Garner Law Firm jumped into action and made things work out for the best. I was very pleased with their professionalism and kindness.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Leallison whittinghill
There are not enough words to describe how incredible this Law Firm is….if you are looking for more than just legal representation than you have found it! They actually care about their clients! They will fight for what’s right, best money you will ever spend!
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02 Jul, 2024 by Roger r.
I highly recommend Garner Law Firm , they show impeccable attention to details and truly care about their client . Mrs. Patti would go out of her way to follow up and see to it that her client/child are of the most importance and truly care about your well being . I can’t say enough about the professionalism and care of this law firm . I would not hesitate to use this law firm’s services if ever needed again .
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18 Dec, 2024 by Wendy burleson
Working with Valerie has been FANTASTIC. She went way beyond to help out my family sort out the legality concerning our Family Estate. Thank you so very much!!!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Cody sawyer
Mario helped me through my divorce. He made sure that I understood everything that was going on. If you need a bulldog lawyer that won't back down he is the go to. I am very happy with his professionalism and the hard work that he put into my case.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Diana fitzgerld
Very professional, and extremely helpful . Highly Respect them and everything they do for their clients. Definitely recommend.
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17 Feb, 2024 by Shannon shattuck
Worth every dime will rehire if needed
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08 Feb, 2024 by Delight carig
21 Oct, 2023 by Rebeccamccoy
11 Nov, 2024 by Veronica anchondo
Erick is the best lawyer thanks
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05 Nov, 2024 by Maggie murphy
Doesn’t return calls. Apparently Jay Jackson doesn’t have time after 1 week and 3 phone calls later to answer 1 question. 11.14.24 still hasn’t returned my calls.
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18 Oct, 2024 by John green
I had an issue and was given Jack Mitchells name by several different people and have heard nothing but good things about him and how he gets things done right the first time
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18 Apr, 2024 by S s
I can't get anyone to call me back about my case. When i go by the office they say they will call me back or no one is there. They open my parents estate back in 2022. After I paid them they stopped communicating with me.
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16 Mar, 2024 by Lisa coffee
Great job every time I need a lawyer.
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19 Feb, 2024 by Louie tieman
Would not recommend them.Ì called t we ice they never returned my
calls
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15 Apr, 2024 by Lisa bassett
Judge Van Hook handled my father's Estate beautifully. I have nothing but appreciation for him and his staff. Thank you for everything.
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06 Apr, 2024 by Tiffany sno
Terrible. Money hungry. Will take any inheritance for himself.
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15 Jan, 2022 by Kristy griffith
06 Aug, 2024 by Tina borlay
07 Jun, 2024 by Sam patel
Great Attorney! Has really helped throughout my business journey!
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29 Jul, 2023 by Roman shabanov
Susan mader is snobby and doesn't call her clients to explain ANYTHING. She doesn't fight for you or your kids to be with you. Basically you'd be better off fighting for yourself and your kids without her interfering. She gets mad when u ask questions. If you ask too many questions about your kids she calls it harassing her.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Tammy huddleston
I've worked with a few attorneys in this area and I contacted Nick Black for a situation I had, I was concerned because we didn't exactly run in the same circles in high school but he was so professional and helped me more than anyone else has. When I heard what he was able to work out I almost cried, I would definitely recommend him to anyone who needs legal help. Nick you are awesome, thank you!
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12 Apr, 2024 by Brian sneed
12 Apr, 2024 by Christopher sizemore
I had the pleasure of working with Damon Wooten on 2 cases and I couldn't be more satisfied with his exceptional service. Mr. Wooten's expertise in criminal law was evident throughout the entire legal process. He provided comprehensive guidance, demonstrated a deep understanding of the law, and tirelessly advocated for my rights. Mr. Wooten's professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication to achieving the best possible outcome truly exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend Damon Wooten to anyone in need of a top-notch defense attorney.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Diane o'hara
Doug is very nice and has very good prices. He did our wills and charged much less than the quotes I got. Nice family practice. I have been recommending him to everyone.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Rick l.
Known Doug Shults for years. Top shelf class A, honest attorney. A rare find these days.
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31 Mar, 2024 by John hood (thief in the night)
I hired Shults and Shults to represent me in a custody battle. Lois Shults is the attorney that was supposed to represent me I payed . For months now I can’t get a straight answer on what’s going on. I’ve definitely been told things that just where not true at least from what I can see from the text and emails. If you fire Shults and Shults you have to take the firm to small claims court to get your money back. I would suggest to NO ONE to use this firm. If you do good luck. No representation. It took months just to draw up a draft. Don’t use em.
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01 Jul, 2024 by James ackerrman
cant wait to meet ..im sure well be besties
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23 Apr, 2024 by Joshua bermudez
Erica was an amazing lawyer and helped so much on my case. I had to take a leap of faith since I live outside of the county and could not meet people in person, and it payed off completely! Not only did she handle my case well, but I was quoted 3,500 by another lawyer and she did it for a fraction of the price! Thank you again, Erica!
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17 Mar, 2024 by Kathy ireland
Very good
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28 Nov, 2023 by Kim wilson
I could never actually sum up in a review my complete satisfaction with this Firm. I have used Michael Jennings over the past twenty years. And it's because he is so trustworthy and and awesome. It's a absolute pleasure to know he is a phone call away. I have had things come out of nowhere, felt panic and then remembered that I could call him. Everything has always worked out in my favor because he is diligent, a good friend, a person who you can trust. All I can say again and again is Thank you
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30 May, 2023 by Aimee simon
I swear I was trying to just ask one question these attorney's would not give me the time of day! They just avoided me! Like they were better than every body else! It was rather disgusting! No wonder alot of people do not respect attorneys! I had to keep calling which was very disrespectful!
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30 Apr, 2022 by Andrew metelits
I am certainly glad I have never had to deal with Hoyt Samples in the lawyer sense, but I can comment on his inability in being a landlord. Him and his wife, Mitzi, were the worst landlords a.k.a. slumlords my family and I have ever had to deal with. From Jan '21-Mar '22 we rented 1034 Red Robin Lane in Chattanooga from the Samples. 3 weeks after we moved in, we woke up to a swimming pool of water in the kitchen from a broken sink pipe. notified them immediately and they acted like it was our fault, asking" what did you do" and asking to send them pictures, like it was impossible to understand. Took 2 days for them to get a plumber out there, so no kitchen sink for 2 days for family of 6, unreal! Next the plumbing in the house is God awful. Toilet's never flushed properly, why... because after several complaints the plumber came back out and found chunks of pvc piping in the line. Leaking bathtub faucets, backed up sewer lines in the house, black mold in the house, and above all that, ... these people will nickel and dime you on getting your security deposit back, if any. If he practices law the same way he is a landlord, surprised he hasn't been disbarred.
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25 Feb, 2022 by Holly parness
“Overpriced and undelivered” is the best way I can describe my experience. Lacked the detail, true concern, or follow through you would expect from a professional attorney charging exorbitant fees whom claims to be the absolute best. Interesting to note, as I met with additional attorneys in my area for help with the same case .. none were surprised by my experience with him.
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23 Jan, 2022 by Sonita stewart
02 Jul, 2021 by Angela woods
Great lawyer
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23 Aug, 2024 by Dolores monroe
Ms. Clark made us so comfortable right from the beginning. She listened to us, answered every question we had & put us at ease immediately. She was very knowledgeable, direct & did exactly as she stated to us. We felt as if she truly had our back & it was such a huge relief! If we ever need a lawyer again, she'll be the 1st one we call on for assistance. Thank you Ms. Clark!
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14 Jul, 2024 by Brudda
Helped with divorce and most importantly child custody with a parent trying to use the children as pawns. She fights for what's best for the children; not what the parents want. Ms. Barbara Clark is awesome
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19 Dec, 2023 by Teresa porter
She has done much for me and my family. Her excellence and knowledge has served us well.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Kathy stallings
23 Jun, 2024 by Travis williams
I love Laura. She is the best lawyer I have ever had. She is a true, you know what! Lol, I mean that as a true compliment, in the good way. As in, if your in a dog fight in a court room, she's really gonna fight for you! You're going to be glad she is in your corner when you see her in action, trust me! P.S. Laura I will pay my remaining balance soon I promise lol 😆. Stay cool Laura and I will see you soon!
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20 Mar, 2024 by B doc
Very rude and unprofessional. I truly don't think she did one thing for me even after spending about $7,000 on her (besides screw me over). She told me I would have to give her an additional $15,000-20,000 if I wanted her during court? Her and "her" mediator are very shady, and need to be looked into. Run far away from this woman. PS- if I could have given zero stars, I would have.
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18 May, 2020 by Anonymous
I reached out to Mr. Rasberry for a consultation on divorce and he didn't listen to a word I said. He responded to my questions with unrelated information emphasizing just how little he listened to me. Even though he clearly didn't care about me or my case he made sure to talk down to me during the entire conversation. to boot he frequently interrupted me and spoke disparagingly about my situation. After seeing his history of reprimand and the annual disciplinary actions taken against him it is clear he should explore a new industry. Perhaps one where he doesn't have to interact with others as sympathy, empathy and sheer humanity are severely lacking in his skill set. There are many other lawyers in TN, keep searching.
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17 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Rasberry always represented me in a professional manner. Recently we had to file a order to protect my daughter while her father is dealing with mental health issues, Johnny worked nonstop for two days interviewing witnesses and drawing up papers in order to get this in front of a judge, where he worked with father's attorney to protect my daughter with her father's consent until a resolution can be reached. Mr. Rasberry is a magic worker and I am so thankful!
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05 Apr, 2017 by Peggy s
I met with Mr. Rasberry to discuss my pending divorce, we went over everything and I liked what he had to tell me. Mr. Rasberry was the best ......I was referred to his office by a friend that hired him for her divorce. He kept me well informed, was my guide, and wonderful council thru this terrible ordeal. I couldn't ask for better. If you are looking for someone to stand by you, and not back down, Johnny Rasberry is your man. Think Bruce Lee in a suit...
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04 Aug, 2020 by Laura
Meghan Bodie was very compassionate, professional and made my divorce process smoother than I could have ever imagined. She took time to answer any questions I had and helped me every step of the way. I moved during the process, and she was able to complete my filing and finish everything across the distance. I highly recommend - couldn't have done it without her!
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30 Jul, 2020 by Mandy
I am a single mother of 2 children, father showed very little interest in our children and had many addictions . After father tested positive for drugs and proof of how mentally unstable dad was she made an agreement to allow our children to be supervised by grandpa who left them alone with father while he was intoxicated. Ms. Bodie, gave me terrible advise and put my infant and toddler in harm's way. She did not show up for court and sent her paralegal who told the judge " I dont know the case well enough to answer that question" even the judge responded "then why are you here" I was also wondering the same thing. I was still charged for that day also. Many emails of not being responded to. Ms. Bodie has no idea what she is doing and charged me for a bunch of paperwork that she never showed or had signed by a judge so therefore, I could not use a single document in future court situations. She was not bold, she had very little knowledge of what my rights were, and did not fight for me or my children. Honestly,
this lady is heartless and money hungry. Shame on you for taking advantage of me and my children knowing our situation Meghan... After almost 4,000 dollars later, she did not help me further my case but actually set me back almost a year and a half and STILL have not established child support and father is still playing games and not responsible for following anything court or lawyers requested. It seemed like Meghan was not for me but for the father. I also know another family that she screwed over big time and put their foster child in harm's way when they wanted to adopt and give this child a better life. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND HER OR HER LAW FIRM. I'm surprised that she had positive reviews.
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13 Nov, 2016 by Jason
It's been a hard couple of months on my family. Without a doubt, the service that Meghan Bodie provided uplifted us in our time of need. While the ebbs and flows of the case didn't always go our way, Meghan always fought for us and our family's needs.
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21 Dec, 2021 by M steiner
19 Jul, 2021 by Wednesday wiseman
30 Sep, 2020 by Robert schley
I hired Ms. Ewing about 10 years ago regarding divorce proceedings. Her work was professional and has held up. If I ever need representation representation again (knock on wood), I would definitely call her office first.
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08 Jan, 2022 by Robert
The front desk and staff are the worst. Ryan will continue to avoid you. It's sad that this once good law firm is now just another place that feeds off the scraps of great law firms. Soldiers and spouses beware. Get anyone but this law firm to handle your case
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03 Jan, 2022 by Kyle
They screen calls, the paralegal and front desk clerk are by far the most unprofessional two people I have met. An I used Ryan McFarland personally 2 years ago as my attorney. Unless you're an attorney yourself they try to belittle and speak down to you. After over 2 months of emails and sending paperwork that needs to be signed per a final divorce degree they will string you along and make no attempts to remedy the situation. If you're a woman and love having another woman treat you like a child this is the best place for you to go. If not I wouldn't bother looking one second more into this company for any type of fast legal process.
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05 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I fully entrusted Ryan McFarland. He stated to me when I first retained him, “I will see you through this to the end”. That provided me with so much hope and encouragement then. In my experience with this attorney and his office, is more often than not there are a LOT of communication break downs. Being left in the dark not knowing and uncertain of things. I would ask questions and sometimes they would go unanswered. The last communication breakdown resulted in, Ryan McFarland, resigning from my case. This happened without warning, I was lead to believe I was going in for an appointment to discuss the process and start the preparations for the divorce trial with children and domestic abuse involved. To my surprise, I get there, to be turned away. Now, during the holidays having to pay a whole new retainer fee for a new attorney to pick up where someone else left off. I personally, only want someone to represent me that stands true to their word and actually follows through. From my experience, if you’re looking to hire someone that is dedicated, has great communication skills, also has assistants and paralegals that have excellent communication skills and that will actually see you through the end of your case. Ryan McFarland isn’t the attorney to hire.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Rollo rollins
If you’re looking for an attorney who you can count on, who comes to the phone, calls you back and has the best interest for their client DO NOT USE THIS ATTORNEY. This has nothing to do with a personal attack but rather a business threat to you and your legal issues. I have since found out through other residents locally of how badly hiring this attorney resulted in further damage and displayed the same problems others have experienced. DONT do it as you can’t risk legal problems. THIS WOMAN IS TOO GOOD TO SPEAK TO YOU AFTER SHES NEEN PAID. All you’re gonna get is the rudeness of the front receptionist.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Satrudays gaming
Worst type of professionalism I've ever seen in a firm. If your a male don't bother. I can't get thru the secretary because of her personal emotions and unprofessionalism. I've been trying to rehire ms.hendrix for almost a year. (They were recommended to me) I keep getting the same answer. We are not taking case lime that at this time for over a years. I paid 5+ just to be neglected and not treated like a real client. Don't waste your time and money with this bias and unprofessional Firm. Stay away from methville. Your better off with a firm that gives a damn about the people and not just the money. It's a joke.
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23 Oct, 2022 by Mary martinelli
It's ok bit too expensive
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24 Jul, 2024 by Aaron judzewitsch
If you can't get Jo Ann, Blair is your next pick. Even though she couldn't figure it out she was also in the wrong jurisdiction. Blair was the opposing counsel. She also had the same tendencies where they don't care to take dads away who haven't done nearly as bad as other dads. This firm is NOT for dads. Though they are bulldogs. You may be able to get them to fight for you. Now if you're a woman, you'll get what you want in court with this firm. Blair gets 2 stars because Jo Ann got 3. It's half personal and professional.
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29 May, 2024 by Chelsey weaver
Blair was fantastic. She made our dreams come true. She's kind, down to earth but stern and GETS IT DONE. I've been through a couple other lawyers prior and she blew them out of the water. Highly recommend.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Dinielle truitt
Elizabeth Psar has been very generous with her patience, understanding, knowledge and commitment to my case. I recommend her to anyone struggling with family law issues. She delivered the results I needed, and I would definitely retain her services again.
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17 May, 2024 by Jane scales
Chelsie is the absolutely the best!!
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17 May, 2024 by Paula mutz
Thanks to Chelsie for sensitively handling a case for a good friend and using her common sense. I recommend her highly!
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14 May, 2024 by Sunshine hvac-r inc (sunshine hvac-r)
I just want to give special thanks to Chelsie @ T williams law firm for doing a proper job in a state case involving custody of my daughter. She did a very through investigation on the whole situation and provided the judge with a proper thoughtful decision on what she felt was in the best interest of the child, she was respectful and considerate and commutative with both parties and the judge . I I lived in this area Chelsie would be my first and only choice when choosing a lawer to handle my case
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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.
