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31 Mar, 2024 by Candace anna
21 Aug, 2023 by Rashad gashimov
My experience with EK Law was deeply disappointing. The firm consistently overbilled, charging excessive fees for minimal services. Furthermore, they advocated for unrealistic immigration pathways, which only prolonged the process without offering any tangible results. It became apparent that their primary focus was financial gain rather than genuinely helping clients. I caution anyone seeking immigration assistance to look elsewhere for a lawyer who prioritizes transparency, reasonable fees, and realistic strategies. Elena at EK Law fell short in these essential aspects and failed to meet my expectations.
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27 Dec, 2022 by Sarah heister
Christina said that my son should stay with a woman that physically, emotionally and physically abused my son in front of me. Plus she killed my granddaughter and is not paying for it. She needs to stop getting involved in their relationship and just get my grandson back.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Trey motte
Fought hard on my case and won! Referred by a friend and will continue to refer to anyone in need! Great people with an incredible track record!
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14 Oct, 2024 by Heather densmore
He goes above and beyond for his clients!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Marevel
Very disappointed he said he could win our case but did not fight at all mislead us lied to us and just took our money and did a big nothing
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08 Dec, 2024 by Brittany barr
11 Sep, 2024 by Torris miller
10 Aug, 2024 by Angie reynolds
Megan Allen in the Huntingdon office…..no help at all. I sent everything she asked for. In our initial meeting I asked for spousal support. She hatefully said there is no way I could get it. My response was I definitely would not receive if it’s not asked for.
My hopefully soon to be ex husband was physically, emotionally abusive. I sent Megan pictures of bruises, a black eye and a picture of my dog bleeding from my husband breaking a wood bar stool on his head. I sent her recordings of him threatening to kill me and wishing me to die. There was an instant that he showed up knocking and looking thru the windows where I am staying. I asked her for an order of protection. Several times. She did not attempt to even consider it.
Extremely disappointed.
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28 Jul, 2019 by Robert s
Good but Costco rotisserie chicken is still too on my list
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07 May, 2018 by James smith
This attorney is the best person if you need the best you need David camp he knows everything about the law
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25 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
My experience with David Camp was far less than professional or acceptable. I had a criminal case and paid $10,000 for his representation. After he was paid, communication seemed to take a turn with unreturned calls and emails. Deadlines were also barely met. Then David presented a seemingly irrelevant argument during the suppression hearing to the court and then filed a notice to appeal but neglected to give me a copy or let me oversee the creation of the certified questions.
After the hearing, I ran by his office to obtain a copy. After I read it over, I realized the certified questions failed to address the whole purpose of the appeal, which was a warrantless entry into my home by the police.
He quit the unfinished case abruptly after I revealed to his secretary that I was possibly going to retain another attorney for the appeals process. He is not a trustworthy lawyer for criminal defense cases in my opinion, and if you plan to use him anyway, have him convince you by showing you all the cases he has won and get a guarantee that he will finish the job.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Christopher hill
Not worth your time or money, they never answer calls and honestly seem to be a bad law firm. Likely why her hours are so short bc she don’t have clientele.
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27 Jan, 2025 by Kristen hayes
Jennifer helped me post divorce and in mediation with my sons dad. I would give 5 stars,but I’m needing service for mediation again and haven’t gotten a response by email or phone in 3 weeks.. maybe need another secretary for how busy business has gotten?…
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15 Feb, 2024 by Dustin douell
I placed a simple separate question 2 weeks no response so what that tells me if you aren’t rich please do not bother this law firm the make plenty of money and don’t care about you
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19 Mar, 2024 by Tony camp
Absolutely recommend
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25 Feb, 2024 by Elliot ortiz
I believe they did their best on my behalf. May God continue to Bless their practice.
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25 Feb, 2024 by Vwmo
Initially there was a person on my case that was professional and advocated for me very very well. I felt very protected because they were very competent... they were
Taking care of serious matters from the opposing side for me in my divorce wich was riddled with violence,threats, and harassment. Suddenly that person disappeared from the office with no explanation then I was Unfortunately made to deal with Mr. Purple who can not hear well at all anymore and has gotten up in age, as a result he has become extremely incompetent and belligerent! When I would respectfully ask for explanations or help I was met with him being rude and condescending. I was no longer protected at all! He was sometimes plain old DISRESPECTFUL which, was so disappointing because he had initially seemed very sweet. But I was wrong... he would be rude when he couldn't understand you because of HIS hearing loss and, it was very disheartening. He did not advocate for myself or my children properly in ANY way!! There were clearly unsafe situations and not once were we advocated for! There was no attempt to protect my children and it was disgusting because he gotten paid to protect us. Dealing with him was one of the most horrible experiences of my life..and it was an Extremely TRAUMATIC experience.He truly may have been amazing in his prime but those days are very far gone! .I have to be honest. I would not recommend working with Jim Purple!!! Run While you Still Can because We were mistreated and the only person that knows anything about what they're doing is the paralegal TOD..... I 1000% regret hiring JIM PURPLE WITH THE PURPLE LAW FIRM!!
* [footnote]
*I am a REAL Client but because of domestic violence I am remaining anonymous for myself and my children's safety
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19 Aug, 2024 by Michael davis
Bill Jones and the Jones Law Firm represented me in my divorce case for two years. When I met Bill for my consultation, I was on the brink of losing my case and everything I had, I thought my destruction was inevitable. The moment Bill took the reins as my Legal Counsel everything changed. We won the case due to Bill and his firm’s tenacity, knowledge, and legal prowess in the face of impossible odds. Bill will always give you a straightforward assessment that you can trust. I never once doubted his loyalty or motives as my attorney; he has earned my trust and belief that he would fight till the end exhausting every opportunity to win his client’s case. Bill, Chris, and Heather will fight for you with everything they have because your success is their success. They worked tirelessly and diligently, delivering results better than the goals we set, the cost was more than fair and well-earned. When I hired the Jones Law Firm, I was looking for representation, instead, I found permanent legal representation & lifelong friends who are loyal and fight for you. If you need representation, you can find no better Attorney than Bill Jones and the Jones Law Firm, they are the best advocates you can have, and they will earn your trust every day for all your legal needs. It is rare today to find an attorney of his caliber, commitment, and integrity.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Daniel barin
I got pulled over over going 52 in a 45. Cop said I was in a 35 zone clearly lying. Scott didn't fix it, the ticket stood. Easiest case to win and somehow he loses.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Jake whittaker
Bill Jones provided cool-headed guidance in a seemingly life-shattering situation. He took me from getting no time with my kids to winning majority custody. Plus, he enabled me to save money by teaching me how to do a lot of the tedious homework, like discovery responses, for myself. He wasn’t looking to bleed me dry. He treated me with genuine compassion; while also keeping me grounded, and making sure my goals in my custody battle were realistic. A great friend of mine, who recommended Bill to me, had a similar experience. I had worked with a couple of attorneys before him; and can thoroughly see the difference between an attorney like Bill, who legitimately cares, and a typical attorney who’s just looking to close a deal as soon as possible. If your life has been shattered by divorce, and/or a custody battle, there is no one better to have in your corner.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Todd jaco
Simple straightforward and effective!
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16 Jul, 2023 by Joyce mcmichen
Great people
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20 Apr, 2023 by Aaa hvacr services
03 Jan, 2025 by Veronica
Laurie Young and Joe Brandon helped my ex win custody of my son despite his arrest for assault on me, tape recorded evidence of his admittance to physical abuse, and medical child abuse documentation. Years later we are still suffering and my son has diagnosed health issues as a result of the trauma.She portrays herself to be a Christian but I don’t think any real Christian could participate and advocate for an abuser to win full custody. How would she feel if someone did that to her children? There is a higher court (god).
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19 Sep, 2024 by James e satterwhite jr ( jim )
I went to there office, met with the gentleman explaining my situation, asked how much to start the process, got the money and hired them within a couple days and the process was on. I met Alex and Missy, they worked around every one of my health issues, they were kind and courteous and showed me nothing but respect, Alex was a straight shooter right from the start. They answered every question I asked in a timely manner. Alex and Missy make one heck of a team. If you need a divorce lawyer this is the man you want in your corner, I have nothing but highest respect and admiration for this team, Alex will amaze you with his knowledge for TN. Law. He is also fantastic with how he operates around the court room. If you need a lawyer this is the one you want to fight for you,I know if I need him in the future he will have me covered.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Jonathan
Better than the rest is an understatement. Laurie and her team are the epitome of excellence, in both, a personal and professional level. Communication never lacked or wavered during the duration of working with Laurie's team, which other law firms tend to negate. That alone could have warrantied a 5 star review but it didn't stop there. Upon the first meeting with Laurie, she was able to give me peace-of-mind during such a trivial time in my life. She also walked me through every process and avenue possible to help me make the best decision on my case. Furthermore, after several months of negotiations, she never once made me feel as though I was a burden or an inconvenience. Regardless of your level of stress, worry, or despair, you may feel when life tries to take a swing at you, Call Laurie and let her take on the street fight for you while you sit back watch it via Pay-per-View. (Yes, it really can be that hands off and easy)
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10 Jun, 2024 by Michael flacke
I had a situation with a family court and had another attorney and I felt the system was dragging the case out. I then reached out to Leigh-Taylor White and instantly saw a huge turn around in family matter and was quickly reunited with my children. I owe them all a huge thanks and will recommend anyone to them when looking for family court representation.
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10 Dec, 2023 by Precious watson
LT and her team is the BEST! I was referred to her. I did a consultation with her. I explained my entire situation and she gave me the best advice for child support court. I hired her within a week. She is easy to get hold of and follow up with you. She is worth it and I will recommend get her 10/10.
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05 Jun, 2021 by Josh matthews
Miss Mullins is an unprofessional mediator. She is not able to keep the parties on track so a plan can not be formulated. She is not worth the expense you will end up losing money by using her. I would recommend finding a different mediator.
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21 Nov, 2018 by Heather
Ashley represented us in the adoption of our daughter. Ashley and her paralegal Penny were both quick to respond and very knowledgeable. We would recommend her to anyone needing a custody lawyer
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16 Mar, 2018 by Mary
We had a very time sensitive custody issue, and Mrs. Jackson went above and beyond what was expected of her to assist us !!
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30 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Her services and knowledge did very little for me, especially for the price. Anything she did in court for me could have been performed by myself alomg with a little info of how the court processing works. It was a large waste of money recruiting her “expertise.”
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07 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Donna Simpson for my disability claim and she didn't reprevent me in a professional manner. She questioned every diagnosis I have and basically made me feel less than human, basically calling me a liar. She was late to my ALJ hearing and didn't even argue my case. I had 1 face to face meeting with her and could never talk with her on the phone. I was only able to speak with her daughter, Carrie. I had her file my appeal to the appeals council and was told that Donna Simpson didn't issue any written paperwork as to why she was appealing the ALJ decision, that she normally leaves it blank a day just files the appeal. If you want to be represented in a professional manner, with a competent attorney, I would advise you to hire anyone other than Donna. I was told after my ALJ hearing, I had a favorable decision, but later found out, I was denied. It's all lies!
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24 May, 2017 by Joseph
Donna Simpson and her staff are all wonderful people, and I was blessed to have worked with them. Everyone in her office are kind hearted, and work hard for their clients. I would recommend them to everyone that could use the services they provide. Thank you guys for everything, and you all are a blessing.
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26 Jul, 2014 by Kaye
I have had the honor of employing Donna Simpson, Attorney at Law, as well as personally experiencing her ability, courage, and most of all her integrity. Attorney Simpson filed my divorce suit in Putnam County. My ex-husband’s attorney was very obstinate and tried to delay the case at every turn.
In her professional, thorough, and determined way, after many delays and motions filed by my ex-husband – including filing for palimony -Attorney Simpson obtained my divorce and the judge ordered what I requested. My ex-husband appealed the case to the Tennessee Court of Appeals and the results of the trial court were upheld. Attorney Simpson remained in control of my case and justice was served.
I feel that many attorneys would have given up my case after the lengthy delays and injurious arguments of the opposition. But her perseverance and attention to every detail of my case brought my divorce to a just conclusion.
I heartily recommend Attorney Donna Simpson to anyone who wishes to employ a thorough and equitable divorce attorney.
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03 Apr, 2023 by Tamara
On 6.15.21 I hired Ashley to handle the adoption of my grandson that I already had legal guardianship of. I know she sent a processor in 11.21 to find the bio-father to sign over custody. From that point on she didn't do anything else on my case until I filed a complaint with the State board. Finally on 1.19.23 we went to court and she didn't have the proper paperwork. I didn't hear from her again until I hired another lawyer to finish what she started. On 3.8 she called said she was on her way to court to have the judge sign and pick up my certified copies to mail to me. I've reached out several times and as of today, 4.3.23 I still haven't gotten my copies of the adoption. Please...don't use this attorney!
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12 Jan, 2020 by Meghan
Ashley was truly a god send to our family! When our private adoption got a little sticky and the hospital was doing/saying conflicting things to the birth mother, whom had made her choice of a private adoption and chose my husband and I, Ashley truly went to bat for us! In the most respectful, tactful, but productive way she contacted the appropriate hospital attorneys and authority's to make sure our sons custody arrangement and his safety, best interest, and well-being was the number one thing everyone focused on. When our son was three days old and in the NICU, Ashley was able to meet with a judge to get us emergency custody of our son, per the birth parents wishes, so we could make appropriate medical decisions for him, visit him, and begin to bond with him before bringing him home from the hospital. Throughout our entire adoption process, Ashley made sure we were informed, prepared, and also had everything done exactly as needed for the legal side of this adoption. Our case was very unusual and we always had a million questions, emailed her pretty much weekly, spoke on the phone often, and visited her in the office with our son and no matter how many times she had answered the question before, she always explained things to us again. Aside from being an amazing attorney, who communicated often with us and kept us in the loop of where we were at in the filing process, she always showed us that she truly cared. She took interest in our personal story, why we were adopted, and she truly loves our son and he loves her even more. Any time we saw her, he was reaching for her. I’m not sure that without Ashley’s tenacity, tact, strength, and persistence that we would have our son; seeing as the hospital had some conflicting thoughts when he was born and until he was three days old. My husband and I cannot speak more highly of Ashley (and everyone At the Barnett Firm) as they truly fought not only for us, but with us to become parents. There will never be enough thanks and praise to show and tell her!
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04 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
With my case I didn’t know what to do or how to handle it but Ashley was very clear and she understood how I felt. When I hired Ashley, she was on top of everything for my case and she answered any questions I had. If I emailed her with anything, she responded within a day or two. I absolutely love Ashely and how she handled my child support case.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Anthony larue
Retired
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05 Oct, 2023 by American
James Brooks breaks the law. James Brooks violates the prohibition of fraud, extortion, bribery and malfeasance. James Brooks takes bribes from the Morgan County Police Department and the Morgan County Police Department takes bribes from James Brooks. James Brooks and Morgan County Police knowingly falsify information and violate constitutional amendment laws in the U.S. constitution and the Tennessee Constitution. James Brooks needs to be abolished and impeached. The Morgan County Sheriff need to be abolished and impeached as does the entire Morgan County government. James Brooks knowingly violated Article 6 of the U.S. Constitution, Article 1 section 4 of the Tennessee Constitution as does the Morgan County Sheriffs Department. James Brooks conspires with the Police to violate the prohibition of fraud, violate the 1st Amendment Law which prohibits the police from respecting an establishment of religion. Abolish and impeach the Morgan County police and James Brooks.
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12 Sep, 2022 by Jacob gaston
Two very easy closings on my property purchases in Morgan County
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10 Nov, 2024 by Bob will
Stimpson is one of the worst lawyers in Tipton County period. After seven years on a workman's comp case Stimpson dropped me and then worked with the opposing lawyers to try get my case dismissed. I had to get a lawyer out of Jackson and due to Mr Simpson's negligence my compensation was inadequate.
Do not waste your time or money with this lawyer ...
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23 Jun, 2024 by Rebecca
He is a wonderful attorney who will fight for you. He is also very pleasant and actually takes time to converse with you in a very intelligent manner.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Stacy joy
I have used him as a lawyer for years he is amazing!!!
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08 Dec, 2020 by Ethan
At the lowest point of my life, Mr. Stansell
Helped me pick up the pieces. He was always communicative, answering calls or emails from me well outside regular hours. He offered wonderful advice and truly helped make this divorce and child custody process bearable. I cannot recommend enough.
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02 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Talked a good talk, but did very little. I never received communication, documents, returned phone calls. Was not informed of a court date, nor was the opposing counsel! Billed several thousand dollars for nothing. Left firm abruptly (I assume he was fired) which was the only positive thing that happened.
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13 Jun, 2017 by Tyler
Being faced with a divorce while on deployment, Mr. Stansell took excellent care and represented me throughout the process. He was attentive, responsive, and a calming force during a very hard time in my life. He answered all my questions and helped me to make sense of divorce proceedings when I wasn't even in the country. He helped me find contractors to do work on my home so it could be put on the market, appraisers for cars and jewelry - he really was an outstanding attorney. I highly recommend Zachariah to anyone who is looking for someone who knows their stuff, is aggressive when necessary and will represent you and your interests well, and also give honest feedback throughout the process. He is a five star attorney and worth every penny. Cannot thank him enough for what he did for me and my family.
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06 Jun, 2023 by Barb
Mr. Sharp worked with us and quickly filed the paperwork to get my husband and I custody of a young relative. He was communicative and helped us with any concerns. He explained the process in a way that we felt like we understood what our options were and could make the best decisions. I would hire him again but hope I won't have to.
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28 Jan, 2023 by Amanda
Mr. Matthew Sharp has been fired. He took money for both his personal fee and filing fee to take someone to court, but he never did. He was hired for about two years to do this simple job instead all he did was file with the court after a year when he was about to be dismissed and assume his resignation for not doing his job and not communicating for months at a time...he pocked the serv papers money and never served the papers...I gave him several more months to give him a chance...but he showed me he was just pulling my leg. So he has been fired and stole my funds. He also never gave me my file or showed what work he performed.
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01 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Mrs. Johnson to represent me with my child custody case. She did nothing but destroy my case. She was clearly intimidated by the opposing lawyer. She did not submit facts and promised me the world when in fact all I received was a big fat bill for $25,000 after paying her $12,000 already. Then she will quit on you when she realizes she can’t do her job.
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10 Dec, 2015 by Emma
I went in for a consultation from Mes. Johnson and she told me she would not be able to represent me, due to scheduling, but went ahead and started helping me as much as she could on my case. She gave me some amazing advise and referred me to another lawyer. If you want someone who will work hard for you and be honest this is your lawyer.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Highland country
04 Jun, 2024 by Jeff's detecting and variety channel
I highly recommend Regina Shepherd she always takes the time to meet face to face for a meeting upon request she is very informative and always takes the time to return your calls...she worked very hard on my case she is a great attorney
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15 Feb, 2024 by Tessa stines
12 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
She took my money and avoided me. She did not communicate. She was extremely unprofessional. She signed court documents without notifying me first. She called on her way to mediation the morning of the mediation I knew nothing about. She is awful and unprofessional. She lost mediated agreement and i showed up to her office twice to sign it. Months later the mediated agreement still was not filed with the court.
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03 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
I met with Kristi today and hired her. She was very professional and spent over an hour discussing my case with me.
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14 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Mrs. Johnson does her job well. She basis your case on proof and facts. She does everything she can to defend her client even if you don't realize it. After over a year and what seemed like endless court dates she proved to be hands down one of the best. She will always do her job no matter what. If I had to choose over again I would choose Kristi all over again even with all the bumps in the road.
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19 Nov, 2014 by Perry
Miss Ward settled my case for pennies on the dollar. After the settlement I learned that the insurance company was authorized to pay $25,000.00 without representation and without going to court to settle the case. I know this to be true because my co worker, who was also injured, accepted the settlement and declined Miss Ward's offer to represent her.
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30 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
Ashley was a great lawyer. She represented my divorce cases in div 9 and after the judge made his ruling we found a mistake that needed to be immediatedly corrected. Ashley stayed in the courthouse with me until we were able to see the judge again so that he could make the corrections on the divorce decree. I thank her for being patient, especially when one doesn't know in's & out's about the law.
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19 Dec, 2013 by Karen
We adopted a little over 3 years ago. She was helpful, knowledgable and just awesome! Very good advocate for adoption! Loved working with her!
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05 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Doesn't finish what she says, client has to track her down to work, over charges what she quotes. Paid final payment to find she wanted more money . Money motivated. Will not be a returning client. Shows little professional conduct to birth family & price gouges adoptive family.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Janet
22 Jun, 2024 by Gaby d t
RUN DO NOT HIRE THIS LAWYER!!!
HE WOULD FILE FALSE STATEMENTS INFORMATION!!! HIS LICENSE SHOULD BE TAKEN AWAY!!
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19 Jun, 2024 by Marcia del toro
He is about to get reported to the border school of attorney for filing wrong motions and petition for child custody in the wrong state when there is NO jurisdiction there for the child!!!! Him knowing the child didn’t reside there!!! Unethical and unprofessional!!!HIS LICENSE SHOULD BE TAKEN AWAY!!!
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18 Oct, 2024 by Lynn morgan
Excellent referral and very quick response.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Ben edwards
Only giving one Star because I'm really just using this to try and get ahold of someone. Everytime I call it says my call can not be completed. Someone said y'all help with local tyrants. I need that help. Please contact me.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Knox foodie
Attorneys are who made it so that it is so incredibly difficult to represent yourself or sue anyone else and so exceptionally expensive to obtain an attorney, creating defined lines between the Capital and Districts.
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12 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Never received an itemized bill, argumentative with client if you don't agree with here. Does not understand when an opposing attorney is bluffing. Can become emotionally labile at the drop of a hat. Broke client confidentiality. Took my retainer, never sent me an itemized bill. Very naive, can become extremely emotional. Run from this "attorney".
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18 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
This attorney really doesn't know what she is doing. I was never informed of what was going on. She never seemed to have a plan. We were always on the defense in court. She never asked my wife any questions when she was on the stand. And after 3 years with no closer her law office informs me that my 2 inch file had been accidentally thrown away by cleaning crew or lost. Now I am starting over with a new attorney. Please beware.
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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.
