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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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29 Feb, 2024 by Hobee allen
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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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
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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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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02 Nov, 2023 by Mariah sheets
wouldn’t even give 1 star. the lousiest lawyer we have ever dealt with. do not waste your time and money
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21 Aug, 2023 by Karen smith
An easy process and great price for a will and three other documents. Melinda and Jennifer were friendly and focused on my needs. Would highly recommend them both.
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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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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 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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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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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 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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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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20 Aug, 2024 by Amanda hamlin
This is such a great service. When you find yourself in a situation where an attorney is needed, it is very overwhelming. I called around Knoxville for two days trying to find the right attorney that could help me. I contacted the Knoxville Bar Association and within a few hours I received an attorney referral. It was that easy! When I contacted my referred attorney, I panicked when I found out it would be a couple of weeks before we could meet due to scheduling conflicts. I contacted Tracy Chain at the Knoxville Bar Association. She is amazing! She understood my panic and assured me the referred attorney was the best attorney for my situation. She was very helpful and offered a few other suggestions to help.
After speaking with my referred attorney, I couldn’t be more pleased with the referral. He truly was the best attorney to fit my situation. He was patient, kind and very knowledgeable of the law regarding my issue. I felt like he really understood me and my unique situation. Most notably, I found him to be extremely honest. He explained everything in great detail so I had a better understanding of my options. I couldn’t have found a more perfect fit.
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02 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Gilley because he sounded professional when I first talked to him.He quoted me one price.Then when he found out my assests,he charged me a lot more.He didnt keep me informed about what was going on.I had to go to his office to find out.,after I paid him in full from the start.A divorce that should have been over quick took nine months.I had three different phone numbers for him to reach me and he wouldnt return any of my calls. He acted like he was working for my ex instead of me.I wouldn't recommend him to anyone.
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19 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Very rude secretary/paralegal/ whoever- very UNhelpful- always requesting things at last minute and acting as if I should have known all along. Didn't inform me that I did not need to show in court on a particular day, so I paid to have a sitter watch my kids so I could be there- IN VAIN!!! So frustrated, definitely DO NOT recommend you to hire these people!!!!!
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14 Sep, 2024 by Karma
It was quite scary and hard for a 14-year old trans kid to face their rapist and not cry. The process was long and grueling but getting to meet my lawyer and judge before having to testify in front of a group of random people and to tell what he did to me made it much better. I don't think I could bare to do this ever again but the process was worth it.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason rudd
The feds need to come here asap totally ineffective. How are we fighting crime when they just let these criminals out without facing any consequences. I'm ashamed that I unfortunately live in this hell hole.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Dillon crone
My Rating is Zero!!! This office should be ashamed... It's a No Wonder these Criminals are Running the streets. 18 year old gets caught breaking into cars and gets a $1000 bond... I guarantee you he had his $100 to bond out.... Right back on the street!!! SMH...
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29 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Retained him in December 2012, have not spoken with him since March and only 4 times between December and March. Supposed to go to court soon. Have not heard from him and am told by the secretary at Kidwell, South & Beasley that she does not handle Brandon's calendar and he makes his own appointments. NO contact, no way to get copies of my files and he took my retainer... and I have no atty to go to court with.
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27 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
We fell for this attorney’s smooth talking and he seemed to know what he was talking about and it sounded great to us what all he was going to do for us. So we hired him and started paying him. After that day he never returned our phone calls or texts that we would send him. He was never in his office. We had arranged to meet up with him 3 different days and times and something ALWAYS came up or he would just avoid us. So we fired him only to find out he lied to us about delaying our response that was due and he knew when it was due when we hired him. He never called the clerk’s office like he told us he did and he made us miss our deadline for filling a response. So now we are in desperate need of finding another attorney FAST to fix his mistake and for us not to loss everything WE worked for. DO NOT hire this attorney. He will take your money and you will never hear from him again. He should have told us he was too busy to take our case instead of just taking our money and wish we would just let deadlines go. The ONLY good thing he did was refund the WHOLE amount we paid him for doing NOTHING!!!
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19 Nov, 2012 by Unsatisfied
I have been going through a divorce for nearly a year and he doesn't return my phone calls, emails, or text messages. I schedule phone conversations with him and he seems to always reschedule claiming to be tied up in court. I am very unsatisfied with his practices. I am now in the process of settling my divorce myself!!
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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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15 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
She was really rude to me I contacted her trying to get paperwork about my case that I needed to try to hire an attorney and she got smart with me yelling at me and hung up she doesn't want to work with her clients she pretty much told me not to take the plea bargain now my case is being bounded over to Grand jury and now she is saying she is no longer my lawyer that I best hire one
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15 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Really hard to talk to and overspeaks. She also withdrew from my case without consent when expressing concerns of a better parenting plan or case.
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19 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Hasn't spoke to ANY key witnesses in my case. Just got my final offer in the mail. Had a question about it and called every day for a week with no return phone call. If you want someone to lay your file on the desk and only pick it back up on court day then this is the lawyer for you. She was appointed to me, and unfortunately I do not have the funds to hire someone else.
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19 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
Paid this guy 1k of a 1500 retainer to file paperwork in order to be heard in a court room. Not only did he NOT tell me he doesn't work those kinds of cases he took it on like he knew what he was doing. He ended up having to call other lawyers, while in my presence, asked them how to go about filing the correct paper work, which paperwork was correct, and who he needed to talk to. After being told what to do by other attorneys he still managed to mess up the paper work, the order that the paper work was diled, All the while judging his client for the way he looks. He is a nice older man somewhat, but very incompetent and a waste of $1,000 that I can't get back and could have used for another attorney. I do not recommend this man for any legal problems what so ever. His actions cost me my case
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25 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Miller in September 2016. He charged me a flat fee to handle my case. We went to a hearing that lasted approx 1.5 hours. He promised to file petitions before Christmas 2016. I heard again from him in February explaining that he has been sick and asking for more money to file petitions. By mid April no petitions were filed. He deserves 0 stars. Now fighting to get my money back
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27 Jun, 2013 by Termain
This is one of the worst lawyers in the world she is not the one for anyone . This lawyer is working againest you.before you hire this woman don't do it she has misconduct for not doing here job read it google her name under misconduct
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22 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Wilkinson to represent me in a disputed probate case. He failed to take actions I directed him to take ,and instead spent an inordinate amount of time on insignificant issues, resulting in unnecessary hourly charges for him and the opposing attorney. He failed to present pertinent evidence about appeals court rulings on the ownership of a co-owned bank checking account, resulting in me losing over $14,000. His explanation for refusing to file one motion I directed him to file was that he had other cases before the same judge and was not going to file anything on my behalf that would make the judge angry. He then filed a motion to withdraw, leaving me without representation during a critical phase of the hearings.
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14 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I HIRED HIM FOR PROBATE & WILLS AND DOUBLE CROSSED 2 OF THE SIBLINGS WITH THE YOUNGEST ONE WHO TOOK OVER THE WHOLE THING. THIS LAWYER WOULD NOT RETURN OUR CALLS OR EVEN ANSWER BY EMAIL ANY TYPE OF INFORMATION, WHICH AT THE LONG RUN WE REALIZED HE SOLD HIMSELF TO OUR YOUNGEST SIBLING. THAT SAIDS ALOT OF AN ATTORNEY. UNPROFESSIONAL ALL THE WAY THROUGH. WHEN CONFRONTED VIA EMAIL BECAUSE HE WOULD NOT ANSWER HIS CALLS DID NOT HAVE A LEGITIMATE ANSWER FOR US AT ALL. WHEN SOMEONE IS HIDING FROM YOU SOMETHING IS UP . VERY DISAPPOINTING AS A LAWYER AND GIVE A BAD REPUTATION TO THE REALLY GOOD ONES AT THERE.
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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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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.
