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21 Nov, 2022 by Tina mills
she is amazing !Very knowledgeable and professional
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14 Mar, 2022 by Tina mills
16 Sep, 2021 by Sarah miller
Doesn't answer the phone or return calls
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08 Jul, 2024 by Cary rux
We recently asked Robert to review a contract. His advice and approval was exactly what we needed. Robert was prompt, professional and extremely helpful. We have enjoyed working with him so far and this latest experience has only further extended our confidence in him and his work. He is a trusted advisor and a key part of our team. We would highly recommend Robert.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Brenda fowler
Called to ask if this attorney handled the type of issue we needed him for. What a joke. He interrupted me and hung up before I had a chance to even say good bye at the end of the call. A very sad little man.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Katelyn fowler
Called to ask him about his services and if they applied to an issue I was having so I could potentially hire him, and he wouldn’t even say what his services were for and he hung up on me. Extremely rude. Don’t do business with him. Look somewhere else.
Edit: You didn’t even give us the time to ask what your services were. From the information I’ve gathered it sounds like they would’ve applied to our problem but you just lost a potential client. Have the day you deserve.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Roberta gordon
Highly recommend this firm. They were responsive and amazing to work with. They made the process as easy as possible.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Cory raphael (penguin)
18 Dec, 2023 by Tony gonzalez
17 Jul, 2024 by Rod merritt
19 Dec, 2023 by Brian raappana
I really don't understand how this guy gets good reviews.
Bots maybe?
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10 Dec, 2023 by Lisa broadway
Amazing! Every single receptionist that I have spoken to has been incredibly sweet. Sam Wilkens is my attorney and very knowledgeable, thorough and has given me great advice. I have absolute confidence in his ability.
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29 Dec, 2018 by Bill
I brought a very serious systemic issue like most people who come to an Attorney for consultation. I spent an hour talking about the issue only to have my money taken at the end and was told it's a problem and nothing she can do even though its in her field of expertise. She had no problem taking my money $250. This is a common practice that I have notice with attorneys throughout the US and we as the people who pay money need to inform others who might fall as a victim to attorneys who conduct themselves in this manner. It should be a crime to take people money knowing that no service was rendered. I understand we all need to eat, but do not waste people time who are being robbed the the system. I am not disgruntle but concerned that this seems more like a scam and it is putting people lives in jeopardy especially when they have little strength to tell there story over and over again. I would rate one star, but she was very courteous when taking my money.
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14 Nov, 2012 by Paul
The basis for my case involved the responsibility for developing a nuclear quality program in accordance with federal regulations for a U.S. company and then assisting senior management with its implementation. The quality deployment effort required total commitment throughout the company. Following my unjustifiable termination, I was referred to Ms. Anderson by a person that had engaged her for a similar case.
Ms. Anderson gained an understanding of the background in a very timely manner and set a clear approach for moving forward. Even at the early stages, it was clear she understood the rules and regulations in the nuclear industry. As my case evolved, she continuously kepted me informed and at appropriate times provided me with options. She was very good at keeping me focused and making sure the content level for supporting questions and answers was appropriate.
Ms. Anderson's negotiating expertise became very apparent during the final stages of the case. Not only did I receive a meaningful settlement, but more importantly I felt that my voice had been heard.
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12 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
Alene provided me with my options at each step in the case with enough information for me to weigh and feel relatively comfortable with my decisions (as comfortable as one can in these situations). She kept me informed and responded almost immediately to my phone calls and e-mails. We did not meet unnecessarily and in the meetings we had, Alene was well-prepared and focused. I was new to this type situation and asked many questions. I found her answers complete, helpful and, in the end, accurate. When the other party did not follow through as agreed (several times and once after we thought the case was settled), Alene communicated with them quickly and effectively. Finally, her fees were clearly explained and fairly applied. I did not go forth with a suit in court, but I can recommend Alene Anderson without reservation for securing a fair settlement.
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18 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Raegen to write a not very complicated agreement. Almost 3 months later I got a partly filled out agreement that seemed to be a form or template. And a bill for over $4000. I complained and she agreed to finish it for not much more. But I feel that the service I received was extremely expensive for the product.
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13 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
She is excellent. she is very sincere and enthusiastic. She asked a lot of good questions, wanted to understand my goals, and was completely supportive of my objectives. She told me much knowledge. She’s a high integrity professional.
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05 Oct, 2014 by Amy
Target represented me throughout a collaborative divorce and parenting plan that was occasionally technically difficult and occasionally emotional and occasionally greedy regarding division of assets. She was calm, clear-headed, yet personable and even the whole time. I annoy say enough positively about my experience with her. She knows the law, did not show one sign of being cutthroat and never fomented the parties. She reined me in a few times, and she reviewed everything from our mediated portion. Simply a great attorney.
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24 Feb, 2023 by Nancye d'arienzo
Initially I thought he was on the same page advocating for my kids wishes and keeping their lifestyle the same as it had been prior to separation. I quickly realized how far his priorities were from mine. In trying to convince me to sign the collaborative agreement, which in our first meeting I did not have the buy in as it seemed I was getting bulldozed, he called to say a few things that were shocking. That on paper I wasn’t marketable so I needed to start thinking about how I was going to start supporting myself(stay at home mom for 12 years w/o a degree in my 40’s). He said the visitation schedule I was fighting for (every weekend w dad, all other time w me as I homeschool, while dad was fighting for 50/50)was “small peas” compared to the “big picture” and that without the collaborative process I’d likely be homeless and in poverty in a year. Whoa. It was like he was trying to get me to release him from retainer so my spouse could then be released as the 2 lawyers were friends. Or did he actually think he was helping me by saying those things? In my option he was unprofessional, demeaning and completely displayed no advocacy for the children.
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03 Mar, 2022 by Renee
I hired Christopher Taylor as my attorney for my divorce case and he was phenomenal. He listened to my concerns and helped me during the process. He cared about the situation for my safety and my child. He helped me keep a level head in a very stressful time of my life. I could not have done it without their assistance. I strongly recommend.
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27 May, 2021 by Rosenda ventura
I have known Chris for several years he managed multiple cases in my family and has yet to let us down. He worked very hard to fight for me and all his hard work paid off when I was granted full custody with a permanent restraining order (not easy to get yet he made this possible giving us a great relief). If you ever need any legal advice or representation I will always say go to Chris, very dedicated honest, and will fight for you and your family until the end!
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11 Aug, 2024 by Blaine brumbaugh
This is a first class law firm. They will always go above and beyond to insure your case goes as smoothly as possible.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Alex jobe
I wish I had met and hired Jody at FLS sooner, they picked up my case in the 23rd hour and did great job. He was a voice of reason and kept communicating with me in the perfect way and by no way am I any easy client. I struggled to read the court documents and the extremely emotional mostly pissed through the whole process. Jody did a great job taking the time to explain everything to me and with great detail. Even when I wanted to rush through something he would say no we are going through this line by line. I will say this interview him and The Law dog Jake. I will me recommending him to everyone that ask me about a divorce.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Lyudmila veleva
DO NOT HIRE this firm under any circumstances, listen to the other reviewers! Terrible legal representation, unprofessional, unkind and gaslighting attorneys, capable of losing a simple case as a PO. Huge turnover. I was tossed around between attorneys with 1-3 years of experience who argued with me along about my own case and misstated facts. Greedy beyond belief. Overcharging for any and all services. Nearly $20 000 for obtaining a protection order!! Please seek help elsewhere!
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28 Apr, 2023 by Jocelyn
Me gustan los servicios son muy eficientes tienen paciencia al cliente muchas gracias.
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09 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
This lawyer is not proactive at all. I have an ex that is very deceitful and asked him from the beginning to seek definitive proof on all her statements. I’ve predicted every move she’s made. We’ve been to court three times and not once has he asked for pay stubs or anything to prove her needs. He doesn’t listen to concerns and is lazy. Does not do good research to prepare for court and allows opposing counsel a competitive advantage by allowing them more time than I was allowed to prepare statements. He gets outplayed in strategy by lawyers less experienced and can’t conduct himself in a confident manner before the authority of court. He does not raise concerns about damaging judgements at the end of arguments when asked by the authority of the court. I spend one third of my time and money arguing with him on trying to get him to do what I want him to do and he has all kinds of excuses for his failures. Don’t waste your time or money. He has not protected me or represented me at all. I’ve asked for specific language to he included in a mediation judgement and it was not. I was misrepresented by him and the mediator in mediation and am not happy about it at all.
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09 Aug, 2019 by Gavrayell
I hired Olaf to help me get my child back from her father who took her away and I ended up with a year of three hour visits with my child. Olaf never asked for me to have more time, he would tell the judge that my child’s father worked to much, being an attorney he should have known that the court does not care about parents work schedules and argued something else but he never did. Anytime I would ask him to do something he would tell me no, like he would not get me a guardian ad litem, would not put what I wanted in my declarations, would not come up with a customized parenting plan at mediation, he would wait months before scheduling court dates or sending the opposing counsel things and when I sent him information he wouldn’t look it over. I switched attorneys and within two weeks had an agreement with my ex and signed our parenting plan.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Triston bartlett
10k down the drain. Won’t say who but I’ll say they forgot key evidence to my case that I was bringing my ex wife to court for and it bounced back at me and now I’m dealing with the repercussions of it. Also, when asked for reimbursement, they informed me they thought it was going to go that way, so it didn’t matter anyway. But the whole reason I took my ex-wife to court was because of this evidence that was never submitted.
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15 Aug, 2023 by Roe roe loves doges
20 Jun, 2023 by Michelle tew
Austin and Chelsea are amazing women. They handled my case professionally with integrity. I am so thankful to have them in my corner as a support system to my case because they not only made sure my children received what was in their best interest but they also listened and took all of my concerns into consideration to make sure my children and I received the best outcome for our situation. I would strongly recommend their services to anyone because they truly care about your needs.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Blaine brumbaugh
This is a first class law firm. They will always go above and beyond to insure your case goes as smoothly as possible.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Alex jobe
I wish I had met and hired Jody at FLS sooner, they picked up my case in the 23rd hour and did great job. He was a voice of reason and kept communicating with me in the perfect way and by no way am I any easy client. I struggled to read the court documents and the extremely emotional mostly pissed through the whole process. Jody did a great job taking the time to explain everything to me and with great detail. Even when I wanted to rush through something he would say no we are going through this line by line. I will say this interview him and The Law dog Jake. I will me recommending him to everyone that ask me about a divorce.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Lyudmila veleva
DO NOT HIRE this firm under any circumstances, listen to the other reviewers! Terrible legal representation, unprofessional, unkind and gaslighting attorneys, capable of losing a simple case as a PO. Huge turnover. I was tossed around between attorneys with 1-3 years of experience who argued with me along about my own case and misstated facts. Greedy beyond belief. Overcharging for any and all services. Nearly $20 000 for obtaining a protection order!! Please seek help elsewhere!
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25 Jan, 2024 by Cathy campbell
Nancy and Katie have been great to work with. I like working with shall women owned businesses. Efficient and effective. Very professional and nice
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01 Jun, 2023 by Luke james
I could not be happier with the service that I received from this team. Specifically from her paralegal Shelley. Would recommend 10 times out of 10.
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20 Nov, 2022 by Cheryl klopp
I couldn't be happier. Someone said she was all about the money. That couldn't be any farther from the truth. Very caring and professional.
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24 Mar, 2024 by Schipfan360
Dr. Louis Byrd was my lawyer in my D.V. case he got me the best deal possible he is tenacious, trustworthy and is very knowledgeable and skiled
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25 Oct, 2015 by Mike
They say our younger years are mostly trial and error, but in todays society it is harder to make an error without a serious consequence that is potentially life altering as a result. I am a prime example of that, a poor choice of words during my high school career led me to not being expelled once... but twice! One would think you would learn the harsh lesson of reality the first time around, but sometimes we need that extra nudge to move forward and grow up.
Both times Louis was retained as my legal counsel on the matter, and both times he aggressively represented me and got me reinstated. The second time around though, I received some straight forward advice from him. But something that rings true to this day that he made me say over and over is "I am sick and tired of being sick and tired", also known as the politically correct way of saying "I am tired of getting in trouble and costing my parents a bunch of money because I did not think before I spoke."
These events took place back in 2005 and 2007. And because not only of the love of my parents, but the dedication and determination of Mr. Byrd I was able to graduate on time and move forward with my life. Ironically I work in the legal system now, just in a different capacity.
Something that makes Louis Byrd unique as an attorney is that he is very much a straight shooter, he does not beat around the bush or sugar coat anything. He will be upfront about everything in regards to your case, and many people out there seem to have difficulty with facing reality and the tough times.
Nobody is perfect, but Louis Byrd is an exceptional attorney who helped place me on the right path. It took a couple mess ups and some stern straight forward words from him to really set me on the path to move forward with my life.
Louis is an aggressive attorney who gets the job done, and he is well respected within the legal community. If you have an education or criminal matter, I would highly suggest you look into Mr. Byrd.
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07 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
He was an outstanding attorney and my daughter received support until she was 22 to help her through college. His advice, counsel and support was fabulous. His office staff was helpful and supportive.
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29 Nov, 2022 by Ms.
Mr. Enbody has represented me as a court appointed public defender and I must say that he has restored my faith in the judicial system, especially in Washington State, which the whole world knows is full of corruption.
Thank you, sir.
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08 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
I was referred to this attorney from an Employee Assistance program. The program provides 30 minutes of free consultation. After the consult you can choose to hire the attorney or not. I called and talked to Enbody Senior. It was an contensious estate issue. I was wondering if it was worth my time or money to pursue. After a 10 minute conversation, Mr. Enbody said he would check the title on a property and "call" me back the next day. At this point, I did not have an answer to my basic question regarding should I pursue the matter or not. However, he did say he would call me the next day and I assumed we would resume the consultation. Instead, I received a call from a secretary who wanted my address so Mr. Enbody could send me a written response in lieu of a call. I provided my address and much to my surprise received a short letter in the mail along with a bill for $60 and a copy of a deed to the property we had discussed. A deed, by the way, that I could of obtained for myself for much less than $60. And still I did not have an answer to my basic question. I complained to my Employee Assistance organization that I had been billed for a service I had never agreed I would pay for. They contacted him and get no where. I will pay the bill. For $60 it's not worth any more of my time other than this review. I hope this keeps other people from getting surprise billings.
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11 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Thank you Raymond! You helped me during the hardest time in my life and you always gave me full attention and kept all of the information regarding my case organized and in view.
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16 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired this man to represent me and he was very incompetent
Lost much of my information I gave home
Didn’t even respond to contempt’s on my behalf
I fired him and hired a real attorney
I’m still paying for his lack
Oh yes he still charge me full price
Don’t hire him!!!!!!
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06 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I went to Mr. Moran, even though his price was higher then most around our area. Pros: he was quick to get us in, and he was straight to the point. Cons: He got frustrated when we had additional questions about our case, and he did not explain certain things clearly like, our house and auto loans. I had a quick question about our bankruptcy a year and half after it was discharged, and he did not return our calls, I even offered to pay for the answer, and I actually had to consult another attorney for free because he never responded. My co-worker was doing bankruptcy same time we were, and found a cheaper lawyer in Silverdale, who accepted payments, and also made sure all questions were answered.
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07 Jul, 2014 by Gena
Mr Moran took care of my chapter 7 filing that came up in the middle of a very acrimonious divorce, he was quick, reassuring, understanding & never made me feel terrified the way the divorce process did.
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22 Mar, 2023 by Brad
I met with Rob in early 2020 , paid a $2000.00 retainer for his help with a legal matter. I received a letter when Covid started saying there would be delays for all clients. This was the last I ever heard from him or his office. I have since called dozens of times for a refund of the remainder of my retainer as the matter I hired him for has become irrelevant in the 3 years that have passed. I have never received a call back. I would just like the retainer returned. I cannot fathom taking money from someone and never providing the service or a return of the money paid. Looking at other reviews, I see I am not alone there are plenty of others who describe similar experiences.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Doing what's best for his pocketbook, not the client. Would not recommend this attorney.
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18 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
This man will take your money and disappear. Don't expect to ever hear from him again after you've paid his retainer. In any other line of work he'd be a criminal.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Hayley hanna
If you want a lawyer who does shady business practice and works with direct conflict of interest then here’s your guy. If you want someone who’s going to try to take advantage of you after the death of your loved one then look no further. BUT … if you want a real lawyer who’s going to be a shark and go to battle for you and actually knows how probates and estates work- then go to Seattle and hire a big dog attorney. Sometimes you just need to leave the island to find quality service.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Chantal firman
Save your money. If you want a lawyer who Is condescending, rude, hard to reach, and constantly out of the office then this is your guy. Made my fathers probate a nightmare.
He’s knowledgeable but that’s about it. Do yourself a favor and go somewhere else on island
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24 Apr, 2023 by Innocentlee young
Do not waste your time and money. An experienced only in it for the money do not fight for you. They drag things out and don't know what they're doing.
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27 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Talks down to me like a small child, belittling and patronizing. But didn't really. Hire her , she was appointed. So .........
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18 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Absentee, judgemental; not very personable. Book smart , but lacks empathy. I have worked with three lawyers in the community and Lisa is the least responsive. Frankly, I wouldn't trust going to trial with her at all. Never even called when the judge asked her to..... twice. I always have to call her. She makes me feel not worth her time; unless I reel her in. She maty not like me but we're not in a college sorority!
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28 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Lisa took on our case after another attorney dropped the ball. We were on a strict time crunch and she was persistent with all matters pertaining to filing in time. She was friendly, helpful and empathetic about our case. We appreciate her expertise.
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30 Aug, 2022 by King
Asking a monkey to take care of your case would be better than this individual. No responses to any form of communication while hiding behind the receptionist. Don't waste time. money or your effort on this tool.
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07 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired Angela L Olsen to do my Divorce. It has been a year, and I had to get another attorney to take the case. She did nothing on my case, except collect money from me. She did not keep me inform, she charged for my emails, but would not reply to them. While the case was in her hands it almost got dismissed from the county due to inactivity! She is not on top of her game! If you hire this lawyer you might as well walk into your bathroom and flush your money down the toilet!!
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11 Jul, 2011 by Jeff
Angela Olsen mishandled our case so badly that we were compelled to file a complaint with the Washington State Bar. She was uncaring and unprepared and, as a result, served a contempt motion on the wrong party, and then failed to insist that a waiver be granted because the opposing attorney asked for service on behalf of her client. Any experienced attorney should have known better. In addition she was unable, because of her lack of preparation, to argue the case with the opposing attorney or direct the judge. She bungled the facts badly, and had no case law to support her limited attempts at rebuttal.
Angela Olsen failed/refused to maintain communications with us, claiming that her caseload and personal matters, such as a field trip with her daughter, and a vacation, were more important than the lives and future of our grandchildren, which hung in the balance.
Angela never disclosed to us that her caseload was such that she could not competently handle the case, which was brought before the court as an urgent matter. As a family law attorney she has a moral imperative to protect innocent children who are helpless, and have no other advocate, which was the reason she and her firm were retained.
Further, Angela Olsen failed to file a motion for reconsideration, when the judge refused to appoint a guardian ad litem. This was negligent
and irresponsible, given that there are health issues and child molestation involved. Ms. Olsen also ignored the urgency of the matter to go on vacation and then had the audacity to tell us more than 10 days later that she was too busy to respond to our telephone calls and
e-mail inquiries because "we were not her only client." When I criticized her handling of the case by e-mail her partner responded within 5 minutes, advising us that his firm was withdrawing -- never addressing the issues. As matters now stand Angela Olsen may have completely destroyed our son-in-law's only remaining chance to get his children and our grandchildren out of harm's way.
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02 Nov, 2022 by Marissaa
This attorney was too afraid to go to trial, after being hired and paid decided it was too much for her and said she didn’t want to go to trial! Like ok?? Who does? As an attorney you have an obligation to serve your clients not screw them over because your too old and can’t handle a touch case! She shouldn’t have took me on as a client if she knew she couldn’t handle it! After taking my money and putting me in a worse situation not thinking once how parents go through so much during this whole situation just to be taken advantage of! I would not recommend her ever, she might as well retire at this point!
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14 Apr, 2016 by Jordan
I was faced with a parenting plan case and Kolleen was the first attorney I consulted. She told me if I was to get an attorney, that I would have to pay for an attorney for my ex and that I didn't need legal representation for my case. Both of those claims were undoubtedly false. I felt like she just pocketed my consultation fee and rushed me out her door. I would not advise anyone to consult with this attorney. I hired a much better attorney and my case went well.
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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.
