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08 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Justin was thorough and detail oriented through the entire litigation process. His pleadings are always thorough and meticulous attention to detail. He took on a very challenging case and executed with precision and ease as well as fighting multiple times to help me acquire and re-acquire reunification each time it was terminated at no fault of mine. He has obtained extremely favorable results each time we walked into court where other attorneys failed and has not lost a single time, he represented me. He was the final attorney representing my case after one was not able to secure favorable outcomes and the other left the family law practice (Justin came highly recommended from testimonials I read about him and through other attorneys he litigated against) and his staff and entire office continues to have my complete faith and trust as the litigation is about to conclude. He has literally done everything within the bounds of law to fight for my rights to my relationship to my seven children and seen once in 1,368 days, had ensured 109 reunification sessions even when interference impeded me every step of the way he was there to help, he also obtained extremely talented professionals to add to the team of a highly complex case and was able to restore competency within the professionals involved in my case. This continued to ensure a road and path to my children no matter the obstacle. He will represent you with all of his will and might and has phenomenal ethics and a great respect from judges and his fellow attorneys he litigates against. You will not regret obtaining this attorney or anyone within his law firm. Sean Domer and Fred Taylor have stepped in and also executed positive results in my case. I have not had an adverse ruling with Justin Bush since he began working with me in 2019/2020 timeframe and I would not even consider another attorney in the Hampton Roads legal community. We are still in on-going litigation but this case which has spanned over 4 years however it is nearing a conclusion and I have no doubts he will continue to do achieve a final outcome that is positive. He is not an attorney that loses - and ALWAYS puts his clients in advantageous positions -- Following his counsel which is filled with insightful, actionable, and successful direction is a decision YOU WILL NEVER REGRET !!!!! Thank you Justin , Sean, and your entire office. Note** The operational folks, and paralegals - are the most dedicated, kind-, and warm-hearted people a client could ever interact with. You don't just get a dominant attorney you get a dominant law firm from the top down. The strongest and highest endorsement I could come up with. There is a reason he is in the top 1% of his class and has all of the certifications and accreditation. He is the Michael Air Jordan of his field and will bring it home every time.
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26 Oct, 2021 by Jessica hill
Got my divorce against a narcissist that was hiding his address at a price affordable to me. Received numerous updates. Thankful to finally have everything overwith. Especially thankful to Lisa Chavis for all her hard work and emails.
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21 Oct, 2021 by Diamond cornish
I came to Mr. Bush in 2019 with a child custody/support case, with Covid things got pushed back many times over the last 2 years. Even through the difficult time he always maintained communication and always was easy to get a hold of anytime I had an issue or questions. He was able to help me so much and fought for me. I would highly recommend him to anyone. Huge Thank you to Mr. bush and his team.
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05 Apr, 2023 by Justin robare
Frugal Legal Services should be the staple for how all parents are represented in custody cases. Ms. Burroughs worked hard and diligently on my case and set realistic expectations. My case had a ton of unrelated issues to custody and Ms. Burroughs was completely understanding and worked through our nearly 9 month case. Ms. Burroughs is a magical and enlightening person who gets results. I went from having no contact with my children to now everything is 50/50 and I get to see my sons every other week and have the assurance that no one should be able to change that. The only shame here is that I can only give Ms. Burroughs and Frugal Legal Services 5 stars because it doesn’t let you show off the absolute brilliance of the firm or Ms. Burroughs. Ms. Burroughs and Frugal Legal Services are the prime and top option of any family matters should anyone require those services. I will recommend them for my entire life because of the amazing work that was done.
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05 Apr, 2023 by Justin
Ms. Burroughs is the staple and prime example of what a top notch family law attorney is. Extremely professional, focused, and prepared these are only some of the accolades Ms. Burroughs deserves. I wish I could give Ms. Burroughs more stars because I feel it is a great injustice to only be able to give a single digit. I will be recommending her for the rest of my life and everyone I speak to will know and. Burroughs is a hard working and driven attorney who you will never doubt have her all in any and every case she works!
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06 Jul, 2022 by Eric
Lawren and Jennifer were very helpful throughout the process, answering lots of questions. I think Frugal is an outstanding choice for couples pursuing a collaborative and amicable divorce. If the couple can agree on the major issues, Frugal makes the actual filing process easy at a very reasonable price.
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26 Jul, 2024 by Kim
Stan came highly recommended by our social worker. They worked great together and our kids' adoption was finalized within 56 days! Stan also very thoughtfully created extra unofficial certificates just for the kids! The kids were tickled to see their names celebrated in print like that. It meant a lot to them and to us.
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16 May, 2022 by Tonia
Thank you for your patience and helping to push me to make sure this adoption went as smooth as possible. I hope many more people have the pleasure to work with you in any future desire's.
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20 Dec, 2021 by Samantha
Mr. Phillips provided an excellent adoption service. He was available to answer any and all questions. He is friendly and personable. I'm so glad that I found him to complete my daughter's adoption.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Traci
Rachel was a excellent lawyer. She worked with me and my husband to get my green card. She was very detailed. The team was very efficient especially jasmine, her responses were always timely and detailed. Thank you Poarch Law! Traci x Tim
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04 Mar, 2024 by Mary alice
My husband and I hired Rachel Thompson in 2021 when he immigrated to the US. She helped us through the whole adjustment of status process, through every request for evidence. We were very pleased with her knowledgeable and experienced way of doing things!
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08 Feb, 2024 by Jessica
Rachel and Melanie provided myself and family with amazing work for our adoption! Both promptly responded to all my questions going above and beyond allowing for peace of mind. I would recommend Rachel to anyone looking to adopt. 10/10 service.
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03 Nov, 2021 by Amelia
David Bice and his legal team were invaluable in a complicated legal case surrounding my daughter. His years of experience practicing family law proved to be just what was needed to ease some of the stress. Mr. Bice was the first lawyer in Lynchburg that talked to us before taking money in advance. He shows professionalism in his work and demonstrated empathy to our specific situation. DJ, who handles all the communication became a close friend throughout our many interactions. She cares about you personally and engages in such a caring way. Bice and his team would consistency respond within an hour or at least within the same business day. You truly do you get what you pay for and Bice and his team are worth every penny. He always seemed one step ahead of our opposing lawyer. And that brought confidence that he would work hard for the best outcome for both us and other clients.
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03 Apr, 2019 by Bruce
David worked with me in a collaborative procedure against a team (ex+attorney) who did not play by the rules and in fact were threatening and manipulative and didn't keep to their agreements. After the dust cleared, I did end up getting stuck with support payments, but there was at least an endpoint. David did acknowledge after the fact, when he began to hear more reports about my ex's lawyer, that if he'd been more aware of his reputation as not working in the spirit of Collaborative Procedure, he never would have advised me to go in that direction. The only problem with our arrangement was that David's office is not in the same city. Since I'd never been divorced before, it didn't occur to me that I'd have to pay for the drive to and from the meetings (2 hours billing for each meeting), but that was just my mistake. Overall, David is a good guy and represented me faithfully and with friendship. Divorce is divorce, nobody wins, life goes on.
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22 Aug, 2018 by Janice
We hired Mr. Bice to represent us in a difficult custody hearing of our granddaughter. He was very honest in telling us the situation may not go in our favor due to us being grandparents. However, during the process, Mr Bice not only bought out circumstances in our favor but fought for us all the way. He encouraged us to do everything the court requested and he even stayed in contact with DSS and CASA representatives. He attended all meetings with us as our attorney, kept us up-to-date with any changes to the case, and returned phone calls in a prompt manner. The bottom line is that Mr. Bice did get us physical and legal custody of our granddaughter. We cannot begin to thank him for his excellent service during our time of upheaval. His court room demeanor was outstanding and the judge listened to what he presented. Even though there were a few hiccups in the beginning with how some individuals viewed us as the grandparents, Mr. Bice was able to put all their minds to rest and know our granddaughter would be taken care of and loved forever. We would hire Mr. Bice again and I'm sure we will be needing his services in the future. Thank goodness there are lawyers like Mr. Bice that you can count on in difficult situations.
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20 Feb, 2022 by Tierra
My mother’s case was one of extreme complications. He fought consistently for her & I was very satisfied with the end of result. Kudos also to Megan she was patient, kind & professional. Communication through the office was always great thanks to her.
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31 Mar, 2020 by Maria
I highly recommend Atty. Taylor and his office. I was charged with doing 91 in a 70 mph zone, so it was a Reckless Driving Speeding Misdemeanor charge. He appeared in court on my behalf and I ended up doing 24 hrs Community Service, completing an 8 hr online Defensive Driving Course, and paying $431 in fines to the court, and my charge was dropped down to an Improper Control/Driving charge, which is an Infraction, not a Misdemeanor. A win in my book. Regarding Attorney Taylor - he was great from the start. He responded to my call right away and was informative and reassuring. He clearly explained what the penalties and consequences of my charges were and explained what he could do to lessen the charges. I was totally stressed and at a complete loss as to what to do, especially since I lived out of state, and hiring him immediately took all that stress away. He was affordable and his services were worth every penny. His office was wonderful as well. Megan, a Legal Assistant at the office, was very responsive to all my emails, which I really appreciated. Getting through the whole process really would have been impossible without them, especially being out of state. The court appearances were scheduled and then continued 4 times! His Office kept me informed, finally appeared in court for me, and in the end, gave me a letter clearly articulating exactly what I needed to do and by when in order to fulfill the Deferred Disposition and get my charges amended. I can't stress enough how worth it it was hiring them. Thank you Attorney Taylor and staff!!!
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14 Feb, 2020 by Mo
I had an excellent experience with JET and his firm. I had an out of state fail to move over ticket, he was able to reduce it to a no-point defective equipment charge without having me appear in court. Throughout the process he and his office were very responsive to my emails. I highly recommend him
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18 Nov, 2021 by Hannah
Morris-Williams overall knows their stuff, is organized and communicative in a timely manner. Sarah knows the law. She does not mince words, but she has a heart. She'll look at the facts of your case, measure them against the law, tell you the truth and fight hard for you if you retain her. She is a woman of conviction, she's trustworthy and honest...and let's face it, that's hard to find in this profession. Family law is a dirty business and Sarah doesn't play in the dirt. If you want the raw truth and for someone to be thorough, ethical and who knows the law, look no further. Sarah and her team will handle things with, grace, dignity and their best efforts. I would not hesitate to work with her again.
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15 Jun, 2021 by Charlene
Mrs. Morris was hands down the best. She answered all my questions and explained everything.
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06 May, 2021 by Brittany
Sarah was amazing for me! I am a single mom that was seeking full custody of my son. She didn’t bill me frivolously and was extremely professional. She prepared for me all situations and I never felt like my hopes were too high or how I was felt was unreasonable. I will recommend her to anyone that might need a lawyer.
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12 Sep, 2023 by Zach
Mary and Abby were incredible through my whole 3 year divorce. Very professional, knowledgeable, and they really care. I never once felt left behind or lost in the process.
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11 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Got things done very quickly . Ms. Commander and her staff were very kind and helpful
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31 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Mary Commander took the time to review my case, which seems unique and complex to me, but she was able break things down for me in a way I haven’t heard. Her kind, yet no-nonsense manner was exactly what I needed. She provided advice for how I should proceed in my case while also advising me to save money. Mary Commander’s skills and expertise as an attorney are clear, and you should hire her.
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11 May, 2023 by Cameron
I was fortunate enough to have Ms. Mroczek represent me in my custody/divorce case. Ms. Mroczek and her office staff were incredibly professional, prompt in their communication, and compassionate throughout the case. She exceeded my expectations and provided competent counsel that produced the results my family needed. I could not have asked for a better outcome.
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15 Mar, 2020 by Anne
When my daughter passed away I had to file for custody of my grandson the same day she died. Ashley worked hard to help me keep my daughters son here in the only home he has ever known and with the only family he has ever known. We won because of her dedication to her work. I can never thank her enough! I would recommend her to anyone who needs a brilliant attorney who truly cares. She is the best family attorney in the state of Virginia!
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29 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Ms. Mroczek is a wonderful attorney. She isn't a surface level attorney, and she dove right into my case, getting to know me and my children right away. She showed that she cared about my situation. One of the things that made me feel the best, was that I didn't have to refresh her memory of my case when I went in for meetings, she remembered every detail. She is so well spoken, driven, responsive, and intelligent. She and her staff went above and beyond to make me feel comfortable and worry less about my upcoming case. Her online case management system is extremely organized and easy to use. When things would come in from the opposing counsel, I would panic, but Ms. Mroczek stayed calm and handled each situation amazingly. I would absolutely trust her with any case going forward, but hopefully there won't be a need. I can't say thank you enough to Ms. Mroczek and her team for all their hard work and dedication to my case.
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17 Jun, 2024 by John
Jeannette was a complete professional in handling my divorce. She was thorough and professional in every way. She is the one attorney you should hire for your divorce.
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23 Apr, 2021 by Thomas
Mrs. Purvis is a real good lawyer and I would recommend her to anyone who needs a lawyer and her receptionist is really nice this firm is friendly and nice thanks to Mrs. Purvis and Bethany it’s been wonderful working with y’all
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24 Feb, 2021 by Julie
I selected Ms. Purvis to represent me during my divorce process first by reviewing her highly rated reviews on line. I hired her immediately after our consultation appointment. She’s very knowledgeable, honest and efficient. I couldn’t be more pleased with her services. Her legal assistant Ms. Stone was simply amazing. Any questions I had were always answered promptly. I highly recommend this team to anyone searching for a divorce lawyer in the Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania area.
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29 Apr, 2021 by Jk
Leslie represented me in a custody/visitation and child support matter that lasted a few years. During those years Leslie was always quick to answer my questions. She always addressed my questions and concerns with compassion and understanding that the court process is intimidating and at times scary especially when it comes to your child. Leslie took time to explain how things worked from start to finish and continued to check in on us after court proceedings were over. If your looking for an attorney that has compassion, works hard and has the willingness to go above and beyond for you then Leslie is the attorney you need.
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26 Nov, 2019 by Don earl berg
Leslie Williams was an example of trust and integrity whom extended her professionalism and wisdom towards my case in divorcing my wife. I appreciated her presentation of options I could do and care in how I felt about them. She made me feel comfortable in a difficult situation.
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07 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Leslie made me feel comfortable from the beginning with her down to earth personality and friendliness. She was knowledgeable and helpful guiding me throughout my separation and divorce process. I am the type of person that likes to know all the details and steps, and she answered all my questions in a thorough, but easy to understand way. She was prompt in responding back to me and keeping me updated on any changes to my case. I felt at ease with her as my lawyer and knew that she was looking out for me. I am grateful that I found Leslie to assist me during the most difficult period in my life.
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03 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Bart performed subperbly in my custody, divorce and spousal support cases. All were successfully negotiated which saved me considerable money and spared my children from being forced to participate. He was a steadying force who consistently reminded me to set the emotions aside and focus on the key matters I was trying to accomplish. And most importantly, we were successful in all three cases!
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02 Dec, 2018 by Mark
Mr. Keil took a very personal interest in my situation and made me feel comfortable during the process. He took care to include eveything i requested and make any changes as well.
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24 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Bart was the best decision I ever made. I had a child custody battle that lasted for years and was very stressful. Bart was right along my side through it all. He listened to what I was trying to achieve and made it happen. He was very good at always returning my calls and emails. Very professional and very knowledgeable. My husband also used his services and achieved the same results. He was worth every penny and I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for representation. I can’t thank him enough for all the hard work he did for us and the results we were able to obtain.
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27 Feb, 2022 by Paul
You didn't want to be here, reading divorce lawyer reviews. You're stressed and hurt. You know that picking the right lawyer could be the difference between getting on with your life sooner or dealing with years of expense and frustration. Lucky for you, you found Livesay & Myers. Brianna Salerno and Dollie Tran were for me the flawlessly competent and sympathetic legal team I needed. I recommend them and the folks at Livesay & Myers in the highest possible terms. They helped me get through my unwelcome divorce in less time and for less money that I imagined possible. Definitely talk to several firms (I did), but in the end I am confident that if you select Livesay & Myers you will have made the right choice.
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03 Nov, 2020 by Beverly
Ms. Salerno was able to guide me and my case through the intricate and specific case law for Commonwealth of Virginia family law. Ms. Salerno was always able to answer my questions (how and why) with specificity to ensure I understood the exact reason for all decisions made in my case. That alone makes Ms. Salerno and her team "the bomb diggity" but her kindness and willingness to understand the emotional peaks and valleys of a case surely has placed her in the realm of spectacular family law attorneys. Knowing the law without a kind "desk side" manner is of no use to any client in her field of law. From the onset of my case through the trial, Ms. Salerno and her team were willing to research any and all portions of law relating to my case and precisely execute the strategy she developed. I am now and will always give Ms. Salerno and her team a "full-throated" positive review for their consummate professionalism, graciousness and comprehensive expertise in family law. I will enthusiastically recommend Ms. Salerno to anyone who asks for or needs a family law attorney.
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03 Jun, 2020 by Sarah
I am so grateful for Brianna Salerno’s dedication, knowledge, and professionalism. She is truly the best. I appreciate Brianna for the amazing job she did regarding my case, and helped me through resolving my legal problems. She held my hand through a very difficult time In my life. She was available whenever I needed her and gave me the best solutions as expected. She made things easier for me to comprehend and most importantly, she stood by my side not just as my lawyer, but as a friend all thorough both my divorce and my child custody case
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24 Aug, 2018 by Matt
Every divorce is as unique as the individuals involved. I originally hired a large national family law firm to represent me. Their business model was not able to address my personal concerns regarding the divorce. I hired SuAnne in the middle of my contested divorce. She understood my concerns, my values and was able apply that information into “attorney speak”. She affectively communicated with the opposing party’s attorney, negotiated when reasonable and most importantly knew when to stop negotiating. SuAnne rigorously protected my rights as a father and now I can get on with the business of actually parenting my children. BTW: I was VERY pleased with my negotiated financial settlement! I could go on forever, do yourself a favor, stop looking and hire Ms. Bryant.
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10 Jul, 2017 by Courtney
Suanne has been a wonderfully lawyer she as well as her paralegal are great with communication. Whether I had a question or just needed advice on an issue they promptly returned my phone calls or emails and were always very helpful in making sure I understood what was going on and what different paperwork etc. meant. She is extremely knowledgeable and makes you feel very comfortable from the first meeting.
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07 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I am beyond pleased with having SuAnne represent me in my divorce/custody case. She was always one step ahead throughout the entire case. She was a pleasure to work with and I would highly recommend her to anyone.
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31 May, 2020 by Anonymous
This review is long overdue and is more than well-deserved. A couple of years back, I had visited Staunton, VA with some friends. Before the night was over, I had received a charge and had to return for court. I looked around at several attorneys and had a few consultations. After a few rounds of that, I found Susan through a Google search and contacted her. She offered a free consultation and spent 30+ minutes with me on the phone going over the details of my case and the events leading up to the charge. She was extremely knowledgeable, proactive, and genuine in the consultation, which really stood out to me more than the other attorneys I spoke with. She gave me very solid advice and offered a very fair price for representation. I thought it over for a couple of hours and I quickly called her back, which was a very good decision. In the months leading up to the court date, Susan checked in on me several times and gave advice. When the day finally came to go to court, Susan talked to the prosecuting attorney and they decided not to pursue the charges against me, and gave me 25 hours of community service instead. The anxiety and tension I felt about potentially having a charge on my record faded away after that date. I could not be more grateful for the great work that Susan did for me. I will always recommend her to anyone who's looking for legal representation in Staunton and the surrounding areas.
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08 Nov, 2018 by Sean
Susan represented me for a reckless driving ticket in Augusta county. Susan provided incredible service and got the ticket dismissed. On top of that her rare was exceedingly reasonable. Would be happy to work with Susan again, but hope to not have a need anytime in the future.
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31 Dec, 2016 by Rob
Ms. Johnson was an excellent legal advocate. Her knowledge, skills, and dedication exceeded my expectations. She listened, tackled, and followed up on everything from petitioning multiple courts, talking with court services, addressing the DMV, setting up community service, and following up with all parties. Her efficacy expedited the restoration of my driving privileges and saved me money.
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08 Sep, 2021 by Jason
TJ was informative and detail oriented. He always gave solid suggestions and advice, and also accommodated my specific requests. He was personable and empathetic. He worked hard for me.
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30 Jul, 2019 by Ronnie
T. J. was great to work with. He explained everything in detail and took his time to help me out. All around great guy.
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26 Jul, 2019 by Nikita
Attorney Wight did an awesome job on my divorce case. I would highly recommend him!
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09 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
This lawyer did not act correctly in my divorce case, he made me leave the office when he was talking to my husband's lawyer, I did not benefit, on the contrary I lost what was due to me, such as the division of my house, I do not recommend him , he did not defend me as he should have.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Lisa
While dealing with a very dishonest and manipulative spouse, I contacted Livesay Myers to retain legal services for a military divorce. Andy Tank was assigned to my case. He and his team immediately recognized the game my spouse was playing and worked diligently to secure my future. Andy left no stone unturned to obtain the settlement I deserved and gave me a wonderful opportunity to live a much happier life. He is a true joy to work with and worth every dollar.
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08 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
Andy and Lisa (his paralegal) were extremely helpful and responsive in the property settlement agreement and divorce process. Each offered timely and sound advice that put me at ease during a stressful period of my life. I really appreciated their assistance and would recommend their legal expertise in family law to anyone.
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04 Jun, 2021 by Nurse r
Britt was very helpful during my consultation with her recently about some "legal matters" that I needed some advice and guidance. She was great at listening to my situation and advising me on how to proceed with the matter at hand. She is very client focused and intuitive. During this consultation, other aspects that need to be handled or addressed by legal representation.= were also bright to light. She was most helpful, genuine, knowledgeable but, most of all, she really seems to care about her clients!!! Keep it up Britt.
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25 Jun, 2017 by Greg nester
I went to this lady on a referral from my long term attorney. Absolutely great! Highly recommend!!
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24 Jun, 2017 by Phyllis
FULLY endorse - Professional and brilliant - pointed out facts I had never considered involving Will Update- Living Will - POA.
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30 Apr, 2017 by James
Amy and her team are simply outstanding ! From the initial consultation and throughout my case I always felt that my needs were met and the firm was genuinely dedicated to achieving the best outcome. Amy was easily accessible and got back to me quickly. Amy's experience and strategic approach provided a result that exceeded my expectations . Amy Weisberg, her associates, and staff provided quality and compassion that are second to none. During difficult times throughout my case Amy maintained a calm, calculated approach which offered me great reassurance.
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19 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I went with my son for a consultation with Amy. We decided to retain her and are very happy that we did. She was well prepared for court and we are very pleased with the results. She is not only compassionate, but also very knowledgeable and knows what she is doing. I would highly recommend her.
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13 Apr, 2017 by Jennifer
I retained Amy to represent me in my divorce hearing. Her level of professionalism, expertise and availability far exceeded my expectations. She communicated with me directly during the entire process putting my nerves at ease. I would highly recommend Amy for your legal needs!
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19 Apr, 2021 by Amber
When you hear him say compassionately. He really lives his work ethic up to that standard. He goes over and beyond any lawyer iv ever attempted to talk to. And he is not afraid of a fight. Iv personally got to watch him really dish it out and win and be correct on multiple occasions! And he treats you like a person not a check and takes his time to EXPLAIN EVERYTHING IN DETAIL!
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26 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Mcgraw law has been a heaven sent. Our situation (custody) has been extraordinary with many curve balls. Hes handled all of them with confidence even at times where i was extremely doubtful of my luck. He got me way more than what i expected and was incredible in the court room. I totally recommend him to anyone who wants an attorney who actually cares about you and your problems rather than just for your money! He is absolutely amazing.
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27 Aug, 2015 by Ginny
Patrick has been a great lawyer. Our entire family has been involved in a messy divorce. He has to deal with all of us. He does so very professionally and has represented our daughter very well. thanks.
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26 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
My husband has used Mr. Price for several family law issues, and we have been very satisfied with his work and responsiveness, both of which were problems for us with other attorneys. Mr. Price is not a barracuda--he's not out to win--he's out to find a reasonable solution to tough problems, which is what any family attorney should be doing, in my opinion. There are no winners in family court, after all. I love that he is honest with us, even when it's truth we don't want to hear. I respect that, and him, immensely.
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29 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Michael has been outstanding in protecting, and guiding me through what has unfortunately been a tumultuous divorce process. He has vigorously protected my rights and successfully defended me through what should have been an amicable divorce. Every step of the way, Michael and his staff have been there to answer my questions, and explain the next steps when I wasn't sure. He also has eased my mind many times when things became almost unbearable during this process. His expertise and longevity in Family Law has proven that the only way to go when going through a divorce, is with an attorney who "specializes" in Family Law. Thank you, Michael and staff. I am only posting anonymously, out of respect for the privacy of both parties involved. I hired Michael, after interviewing three other attorneys in the area, because he took the time to hear my concerns and answer questions on the first phone call I made to him. He spoke with me personally, and didn't just pass me off to a scheduler. I was able to determine with my first phone call, if he was the right fit for me. When an attorney speaks with you personally so you can save time and not have to schedule a consultation weeks out, you make a better informed decision that helps you want to schedule that consultation. In the beginning when realizing my marriage was unsalvageable, waiting a week or more to speak with an attorney was adding to the stress of an already fast moving stressful situation. I was able to meet with him within a few days, and the next day he had filed the divorce complaint and requested a pendente lite hearing to protect marital assets and request temporary spousal support.
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31 Mar, 2016 by Alice
Mr. Price is a terrific lawyer. Very knowledgeable and professional. He really took the time to answer my questions and listen to my concerns. Best of all, mr. Price always returned my calls the same day.
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30 Jun, 2017 by Stephanie
Corrynn Peters is an exceptional attorney. I have worked with her on several occasions since 2011. Her stellar staff and team are fast, efficient, and professional. Corrynn is empathetic, resourceful, extremely knowledgeable, and possess a strong work ethic. She is great under pressure and her calm approach when handling clients and their children is commendable. Corrynn is a woman of integrity and a conscientious lawyer. I highly recommend her.
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29 Jun, 2017 by Lorraine
Ms. Peters has worked with me for over five years with child support issues. She came recommended to me by someone that used her for divorce, and she instantly become a trusted adversary. She is professional, offers sound advice and I cannot imagine what would have happened if I had not hired her to assist me. She is knowledgeable and takes the time to explain all aspects of probabilities. Her work is thorough, you will not be disappointed!
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29 Jun, 2017 by Jessica
Corrynn was a sounding board, an advocate and a voice of reason for me while going through a very difficult divorce. After my consultation with her, I felt for the first time that I had someone in my corner to help me fight this battle. She helped me focus on what was really important, which was creating a working plan for co-parenting with my ex husband in the future. Her office is run very efficiently and things are done in a timely manner. I would wholeheartedly recommend her.
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27 Dec, 2023 by William potapchuk
Carrie is wonderful. I had many questions about my will (or a trust?) and Carrie helped me navigate my many questions and offered very helpful advice. Highly recommended!
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05 Mar, 2020 by Janice alder
Wonderful family law practice. Carrie Tipton did our wills and other documents designed to make sure our kids are taken care of in the event something happens to us. Ms Tipton is understanding, smart, organized, and ethical, and she made the process so easy for us. We highly recommend her!
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05 Aug, 2022 by Sandy
You couldn't find a more professional, yet caring lawyer in the NOVA area! She definitely knows the law and uses this vast knowledge to help her clients, all the while being kind, considerate and understanding.
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05 Feb, 2021 by Nathan
Beth Chavez is not your typical attorney who i just out to make money. She is one of the few that actually cares about not just her clients but the people she speaks with. I recently had a child support modification that the other party wanted to do discovery and waste a lot of time and money. I consulted with Beth who listened to me and at the end of the consultation gave me advise on how to push back on the opposing side to have this wrapped up without litigation or discovery. This consultation and advice saved me thousands of dollars that Beth could have obtained but instead she is a compassionate attorney who is in the business for the right reason! I know at some point i will need to hire another attorney and it WILL be Beth! Thank you again!
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30 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Coates is a very good lawyer that knows his job. He helped me obtain custody of my children after my wife ran off with them to another state. He not only got the job done but seemed to genuinely care about the welfare of my children throughout the entire ordeal. If you need a good lawyer on a custody issue please give him a call. He also did a great job on my separation agreement even though I was on a time constraint and needed it done in a hurry.
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29 Jul, 2018 by Nancy
I highly recommend Lisa Levy as an exceptional family attorney Ms. Levy took the time to truly understand the particulars of my case and the psychological profile of my ex. This enabled she and I to be of like minds in bringing a settlement which was advantageous for myself and supports the best interest of my child. I would not have been able to fight for my custodial rights and prevail in the process without Lisa looking out for my best interests. Ms. Levy educated me on legal strategies and state statutes beneficial to my case. Her insight into the mindset and precedents of the judge in my case proved invaluable. I felt comfortable bringing my concerns to Ms. Levy, relying on her ability to anticipate problems and present the best solutions in managing a complicated relationship with my ex. Choosing Lisa Levy as my attorney resulted in a carefully crafted Order designed to save time, money, and emotional distress going forward.
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30 May, 2015 by Leah
I used Mr. Klima for a custody and support issue. He gave great advice and counsel. He helped me to understand the process and saved me time and money by helping me to see my situation accurately to file the correct motions. He is very knowledgeable on custody and has even written a book about adoption in Virginia.
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24 May, 2011 by Anonymous
Nicole Rossi's response are very comprehensive and helpful. She is also very quick in answering questions. Thank you, Nicole.
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01 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Jennifer Oram-Smith is one of the most delightful and personable people I have ever had the privilege of working with. Even though, what put me in the position of having to hire a lawyer in the first place was not a good thing.... Jennifer's positive attitude and fearless fighting for my case helped make my experience that much better. When you search for a lawyer, you often look for credentials - experience - size of the firm etc.... but what often isn't described is how diligent they are with their clients and their cases. Jennifer was so tireless in her efforts to ensure I got what I was looking for, that each time I sent her an email she was quick to respond that very same day. Communication was key for me as I live in California and needed representation in Virginia. My case was a complex one, with ALOT of history and paperwork to go through, and given the distance and how often I was able to actually meet with Jennifer in person - I can say I am very impressed with the way she conducts business. As far as price goes, it should be no surprise to anyone that hiring a lawyer can be expensive (depending on your case) and you get what you pay for. I made that mistake the first time I hired a lawyer a few years ago and all I walked away with was debt and little to show for it. Jennifer is EXTREMELY fair in her pricing... in fact... I think she may be underpriced as I believe that her level of commitment is valued at so much more. And because of Jennifer's meticulous work and what felt like boundless knowledge of the judicial system, I was able to walk away from court with so much more than I had started with. I would recommend Jennifer to anyone seeking legal help or even just legal advice. Thank you for your help Jennifer!
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What an Adoption Lawyer Can Do for You

An adoption lawyer specializes in navigating the legal complexities of the adoption process, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved - the adoptive parents, birth parents, and the child - are protected. They assist families through the different types of adoption, such as domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, and private adoptions. Adoption lawyers ensure that the adoption process complies with state, federal, and international laws, and handle any legal issues that may arise during the process, such as terminating parental rights, conducting home studies, and finalizing the adoption.

If you're looking to adopt or if you're a birth parent considering placing your child for adoption, an adoption lawyer can guide you through the legal requirements and ensure the process goes smoothly.

When Should I Hire an Adoption Lawyer?

You should consider hiring an adoption lawyer in the following situations:

  • Private or independent adoption: If you’re adopting a child directly from the birth parents without the involvement of an adoption agency, a lawyer is essential to draft and review all legal documents, including consent forms and parental rights termination agreements.
  • Foster care adoption: If you’re adopting a child from foster care, a lawyer can help navigate the legal process, ensure the child’s eligibility for adoption, and represent you in court to finalize the adoption.
  • Stepparent or relative adoption: If you’re adopting a stepchild or a relative, a lawyer can assist in terminating the parental rights of the biological parent and ensure the adoption is completed legally and efficiently.
  • International adoption: International adoptions are complex, involving multiple layers of laws from the U.S. and the child’s birth country. A lawyer can help navigate immigration requirements and ensure compliance with international treaties like the Hague Convention.
  • Contested adoptions: If a birth parent changes their mind about the adoption or there is a dispute over parental rights, a lawyer can represent you in court and ensure that the adoption proceeds legally.
  • Adoption for same-sex couples: If you're a same-sex couple looking to adopt, a lawyer can help ensure that your adoption complies with state laws and that both parents have equal legal rights to the child.
  • Birth parent representation: If you’re a birth parent considering adoption, a lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, help you understand the legal implications of terminating parental rights, and ensure that your decision is legally sound.

Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help avoid legal complications and ensure that the adoption is legally finalized as smoothly as possible.

What Does an Adoption Lawyer Do?

An adoption lawyer provides a variety of legal services, ensuring that the adoption process is completed in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Filing legal paperwork: Adoption lawyers handle all the necessary paperwork, including petitions to terminate parental rights, consent forms, and final adoption decrees. They ensure that the adoption is in line with state, federal, and international laws.
  • Conducting home studies: Some adoptions require a home study to evaluate the prospective adoptive family. While a social worker usually conducts the study, a lawyer can ensure that the process complies with legal requirements and that the report is submitted correctly.
  • Terminating parental rights: Lawyers assist in terminating the legal rights of the biological parents, either voluntarily through signed consent or involuntarily through court proceedings if necessary.
  • Representing clients in court: Adoption lawyers represent adoptive parents, birth parents, or other parties in court hearings to finalize the adoption or resolve disputes.
  • Navigating international adoption laws: For international adoptions, a lawyer helps ensure that all legal requirements, both in the U.S. and the child’s home country, are met, including securing the child’s visa and citizenship.
  • Providing legal advice: Adoption lawyers guide clients through each step of the adoption process, advising them on their rights and obligations, as well as any potential legal issues that may arise.
  • Drafting post-adoption agreements: In some cases, especially open adoptions, a lawyer can help draft post-adoption agreements that specify the level of contact between the adoptive and birth parents.

How Are Adoption Lawyers Paid?

Adoption lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the adoption and the time involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: Many adoption lawyers charge a flat fee for handling the entire adoption process. This is common for straightforward adoptions, such as stepparent or foster care adoptions, where the legal work is relatively predictable.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex adoptions, such as contested or international adoptions, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Retainer: In cases where the adoption process may take longer or involve more legal work (e.g., termination of parental rights or court disputes), a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on the case.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, so you understand the total cost of the adoption and any additional expenses that may arise during the process.

How Much Does an Adoption Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an adoption lawyer depends on the type of adoption and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:

  • Stepparent or relative adoption: Legal fees for these types of adoptions typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on whether the adoption is contested or requires a court hearing.
  • Domestic private adoption: The legal fees for a private adoption usually range from $5,000 to $10,000, including drafting documents, terminating parental rights, and finalizing the adoption in court.
  • International adoption: International adoptions are generally more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the adoption and the child’s country of origin.
  • Contested adoption: If the adoption is contested and involves court disputes, legal fees may range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the length and complexity of the court proceedings.

In addition to lawyer fees, adoptive parents should also be aware of additional costs such as court filing fees, home study fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).

Top Questions to Ask an Adoption Lawyer

Before hiring an adoption lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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