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3.7
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5.0
97 Reviews
26 Aug, 2024 by Robert grant
Great service
Very attentive
Will always use them
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22 Aug, 2024 by Laura wood
Anthony and his staff worked extremely hard to assist with a difficult case. I am impressed by their perseverance and professionalism. Andrew provided timely updates and was always courteous. This team helped to ensure that I received fair compensation.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Eric boyce
Excellent and fast work! I am more then pleased with this team and will be look forward to future work!
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15 Nov, 2013 by Mel
I have been working with Mr. Bailey for over 5 years now. I consider Mr. Bailey a tremendous asset with regard to settling estates. He is very well versed in estate planning. The manner in which he handles each estate is with personalized and professional service. I highly recommend him. He is definitely my lawyer of choice.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Elizabeth bosse
Mr Carr has represented myself and my family for over 10 years. He is always there when you need him. From car accident assistance to representation for criminal cases, his extensive knowledge of the law can help in any situation. I give him and his law firm 10 stars!!
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13 Sep, 2024 by Johnny kosmakos
Kevin Carr’s excellence in client service, in-depth knowledge of the law, and proficiency in critical and creative thinking saved me from going to jail. I can’t thank you enough Kevin!!!!
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05 Aug, 2024 by Rose butler
I was referred to Mr. Murahari by another attorney who was going to be retiring soon. This was the BEST decision that I could have ever made! From the very first conversation that we had, I knew that I was in excellent hands. My Disability case was not only a lengthy one, but it was also one with many obstacles and challenges. Often times, I felt like just giving up and throwing in the towel. But when you have an attorney like Arjun Murahari, you come to realize that this is definitely not an option! When I tell you that this young man is a fighter, it is truly an understatement. I witnessed firsthand his courage, determination, dedication and tenacity in fighting for others! Had it been any other attorney, I know that my outcome would not have been a successful one. From the bottom of my heart, I will always be eternally grateful and thankful unto God for Mr. Arjun Murahari and his entire office staff and team, especially Grace! You haven’t experienced Grace until you’ve met Grace! Their professionalism and integrity are not only exemplary but also unmatched. My prayer for you is that God would continue to keep HIS hand upon each of You and allow you to be the Blessing and Answer to someone else’s Prayer as you were for me!
With sincere and heartfelt gratitude….Rose Chew
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13 Feb, 2022 by Amelia s.
Dempsey helped me resolve issues pertaining to my divorce and custody dispute of my two year old son, and by way of referring me to another attorney also helped me resolve debt / financial ailments. As a 25 y.o. (at the time) dealing with divorce, I initially was very embarrassed of my predicament however I never once felt judged or dismissed by Dempsey. Additionally I had a hearing that was supposed to last 1.5-2 hours which, I kid you not, ended up lasting 9. I really appreciate that she was able to be present and attentive during that unexpected turn of events. Ultimately I was awarded exactly what I was petitioning for. I'm happy my son and I can now move forwards with our lives.
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21 Dec, 2020 by Elizabeth
My experience working with Dempsey Nash has been professional and therapeutic. Dempsey is extremely patient and kind as well as professional as she gathers pertinent information and works toward resolution. She works from an emotional and sensitive platform and really understands your pain and challenge in making difficult decisions. She understood that despite the incredible pain, fear, anxiety and abuse I was enduring, I was still very concerned and worried about my ex-partner and wanted to work with him despite the mental health issues he expressed. She was sensitive and worked to help me understand my options and bring me to reasonable and supportive conclusions. She takes time to listen to you and your story and create a plan that works for you. Working with Dempey provided and opportunity to explore my relationship from a perspective that included my empathetic emotional feelings but was also objective and fair. This is difficult to do when you have endured years of abuse and control by a mentally ill individual. Dempsey never condems and always listens. She is as much a psychological counselor as she is a legal guide. Working with Dempsey was as healing as working with my counselors and you will learn about yourself and what you have endured in addition to finding your strength through the process because of her compassionate and passionate style. I feel so very fortunate to have found Dempsey to work with during one of the most difficult times of my life.
I highly recommend consulting with and working with Dempsey Nash. She is a unique blend of a compassionate, intelligent, caring and confident humility...a rare find in the legal world.
Elizabeth
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27 May, 2020 by Robert bieretz
Randy was very professional, easy to work with and she accommodated my schedule.
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5.0
7 Reviews
4.7
128 Reviews
24 Jul, 2024 by The prolific maryland kid
12 Jul, 2024 by Shelley-rose moghrabi
That won't happen to me, I said. I am not of that race, nationality, or ethnicity, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I don’t practice that religion, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I’m not of that sexual orientation, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I’m not part of that income bracket, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, I don’t have that disability, and so I did not speak out. That won’t happen to me, I said, until it was physically in my face, had me backed into a corner, and was spewing utter vitriol at me. That won't happen to me, I said, he'd never lay a hand on me, until one day the physical aggression caused me physical pain and injury. That won’t happen to me, I said, until thirteen months ago, when I found myself on the phone with a domestic violence hotline. That won’t happen to me, I said, until thirteen months ago, when I found myself hurriedly packing a bag and fleeing my home, and boarding an aircraft out of state, because I feared for my life and safety. Fifty years ago, when my mother and her family escaped their war-torn country with nothing but the clothes on their backs and one bag per person due to religious persecution, I never imagined that one day, fifty years into the future, that I too would one day find myself following in her footsteps, quite literally.
I never imagined that I would one day find myself fleeing my home with nothing but the clothes on my back and one small carry-on bag, and boarding a same-day aircraft bound for 1,000+ miles away, because I too feared for my life and safety. Thirteen months ago, when I found myself on the phone with a local domestic violence agency in my state, I never imagined that the proverbial door would get slammed in my face, on the basis that I earned too much money to qualify for any help or support. Since I was born and raised abroad, and with my own family still living halfway around the world, it was in that moment that I truly realized, and that it genuinely sunk in, that I was going to be completely and entirely alone in the process of escaping the cycle of violence.
In 1848, divorce was practically unheard of. Most states had fault-based divorce laws outlining the requirements and criteria permitting divorce: lunacy, adultery, desertion, or cruelty. This meant that couples could only pursue divorce IF they could prove, in a court of law, that one or the other had committed one of these offenses. However, given the laws (or lack thereof) governing women's rights and freedoms at the time, divorce was far more complex for women, as they remained at risk of being unable to regain their last names, unable to retain property acquired prior to their marriage, or unable to obtain custody of their children. These fault-based grounds are in stark contrast to the no-fault system that exists across most states today. Today, after decades of tireless advocacy, and thanks to incredible attorneys like Laurie Wasserman and Virginia Yeoman, people are no longer required to remain shackled to their spouses, and have the freedom to escape the cycle of violence. Thanks to the fabulous support of Laurie and Virginia, I've not only been able to survive, but I am slowly on my way to thriving again. The words "happiness" and "divorce" are the last two words you'd expect to see in the same sentence, but that is exactly what Virginia and Laurie have facilitated for me.
For anyone considering engaging the services of Laurie Wasserman and her team, from the bottom of my heart, I wholeheartedly recommend them and their entire office. They'll not only save your life, but they will also help re-unlock your door to freedom, health, independence, and joy again.
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07 Jul, 2024 by Sandy beres
Before I hired Martha, I was working with another attorney for my divorce process, and I just didn't feel like they were on my side and looking out for my best interests. Someone referred me to Martha White, and once I met with her, I made the decision to end my retainer agreement with my current attorney and hire Martha White. Martha White listened to me and to my concerns and what I wanted out of dissolving my marriage. She was always responsive to my calls or emails and took the time to explain things to me, so that I understood all of terms and possible outcomes of this process. I feel that she helped me reach a fair settlement and I was happy with the final settlement agreement. I wish I would have hired her in the first place. She didn't drag the process out any longer than it needed to be. I was very pleased with her representation of me in my divorce case. If I ever would have another family law issue, she would be the first attorney I would contact. You can't go wrong having Martha White as your attorney.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Dennis badham
Kathleen and her entire team made a tough divorce and custody situation a lot easier. Kathleen was knowledgeable and honest about the entire process, and kept me informed throughout the duration. I highly recommend this group.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Mary ellen jacobs
Kathleen and her staff were integral in the reason why I was finally able to sign my divorce papers this week. She answered all my questions, was kind with difficult messages and even picked me up on morning when I was experiencing a panic attack before a court date. I would recommend her to anyone in MD for divorce. Thank you so much!
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19 Sep, 2023 by Deedee t
Ned wasn’t bad. He cared I could tell. Kathleen didn’t. I paid over 20,000 in less than 6 months. Our court date came and I had no attorney to stand by my side. I was told I had a balance of another $4000. This was days before our hearing. Take that for what’s it worth. Don’t come here.
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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:
-
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.
