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22 Mar, 2018 by Shelley
Virginia walked me through every step of my somewhat difficult divorce. She and her staff are true advocates for their clients, and their experience helps to make the most difficult time much less troublesome. I could not have made it through without her caring guidance and friendship. I knew she was willing to go to bat for me when I didn't have the strength.
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27 Feb, 2018 by Ty
Virginia and her team helped me to get full custody of my children recently. She was recommended to me and I will pass on that recommendation to anyone. What I appreciated about Virginia was that she is sharp, efficient, direct, but she also has a confidence which is calming and sincere. Her office is responsive to questions, clear in their answers, and friendly to work with.
I felt that Virginia had my back - that's what I am trying to say.
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07 Dec, 2016 by Shari
Virginia represented me for over two years, during a very messy separation and divorce. I came to think of her as not just a lawyer, but a friend. She genuinely cares about her clients and does whatever she can to get them an equitable and fair outcome. I can't recommend her highly enough!
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13 Aug, 2024 by Doug ericson
Professional. Smart. Kind.
Wonderful experience.
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21 May, 2024 by Ashley fedorov
I highly recommend, Brittney Hall, who is one of a handful of attorney's that are board certified in family law in New Hanover county, for legal representation. She has top notch communication skills and performed in a timely manner. Most importantly, she has good knowledge and experience that met all my legal needs to great satisfaction. She has integrity and morals that resulted in my peace of mind knowing I was fighting for the right reasons. She displayed perseverance and worked hard to get me the best outcome.
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15 May, 2024 by Carrie kain
When faced with an extremely stressful court case regarding child custody jurisdiction, we are so grateful we hired Jamie S. Getty! She listened to our needs and went to work right away fighting for our rights and ultimately won our case of jurisdiction and visitation. I felt confident after speaking with her for the first time and knew she was serious and dedicated to our case... and I am certain this is her work ethic and how she handles all cases. We are so thankful for Jamie!
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5.0
4 Reviews
4.3
62 Reviews
01 Aug, 2024 by Salaam
07 Jun, 2024 by Danielle
I want to take the time to thank Geoffrey Hosford for all the hard work he did for me! I have recently been in recovery n relocated to Colorado. With his help and his staff he helped me get my NC license back AND get my criminal background expunged! I greatly appreciate him n HIGHLY recommend his services! I couldn't have done this without him! A million thanks!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Oleisha murphy
My sister is a black , single mother of 2. She has several degrees, and was still in school trying to get the highest education she could. Although , like no other a terrible situation occurred , and being in a town like this of course, you’re prone to be racially profiled. In addition, she thought she had a great lawyer but as always the system fails us tremendously. This lawyer is why im writing this review today, so others wont make the same mistakes he did. I have seen the system fail multiple people in my community! Although I never thought YOUR REPRESENTATION , would be so ignoble and fail you without any remorse. Please let him represent you at your own risk. I forgive him for his lack of a job but in due time, I pray you reevaluate yourself and make a change to protect your client instead of being indulged into the money!
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01 Apr, 2024 by Kriste s
Jim is an outstanding attorney who exceeded my expectations and got me the best outcome possible. I consulted multiple attorneys prior to finding Jim; no one came close to his level of professionalism and experience. Jim was an invaluable resource during a very difficult time and he truly has his clients' best interests in mind. I cannot recommend Jim more highly.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Kurt elkins
Had to find new law firm because this one lied to us and here is the last email I sent to their office after finally getting my documents back along with half retainer due to the non refundable clause in the contact. Even though they breached the contract with dishonesty and poor standard of care. Placing my grievance with the state for our wasted time and funds.
email from me to office manager:
Is it a breach of contract to lie to your client or just a breach of ethics? We have honored our side of the contract with the expectation to get honest representation and a standard of care. Now we have a huge waste of time and money because of the professional performance of your firm. I will attach the email communication that proves that we have been told two different statements. First being an email labeled (receipts), In which I provided Mrs. Frey with the receipts she requested. In her response, "I have reviewed the discovery served upon you and have made my objections; I'll scan over to you once I return to the office. Along with it, I'll send you a tip sheet to make the process less daunting".. Document was never sent. A week later, I asked through email for an update on our CS case since I have heard nothing since the last email stating that she would scan and send documents. Her reply was "how's it going with the discovery?". Which is ridiculous to ask seeing as she had the discovery and never sent it back with the corrected questionnaire. I responded, informing her that she has the discovery and was reviewing it last week. Her response was " just double checked, looks pretty straight forward!"..... This is completely opposite of what was said the week before. Both cannot be true and can only conclude that one statement is a lie. This is a complete abandonment of trust along with the lackadaisical update on our case, especially when I am asking on a Friday evening whether we are showing up for court Monday morning because I have gotten no word from my paid attorney.
I believe this is gross negligence of standard of care from your firm. I will leave a detailed review of my experience with your firm and place my grievance with the state.
This is a very important matter to my family and I. I hope that other cases you have, that you treat them with more respect and care than we have received.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Tommy sullivan
08 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Ashley Michaels to represent me during my separation, it involved a prenup and children. A retainer was paid for my legal fees in the amount of 5000.00 and put into an ILOTA for my legal fees and my use. I told her that I no longer needed her services and I wanted to formally end my separation to my wife. She refused to write up my request. Accusing me of doing things under duress. I wanted to have my attorney write this up because it was what I wanted and I wanted to make sure no one could say my request was done for any other reason then because it was what I wanted. Just because it was not what she thought was best LEGALLY does not mean that it was not the right thing to do for my family. I stated that I wanted a refund of my remaining retainer and I was ending our business together. She then stated that they would cut the check and mail it to a THIRD PARTY and refused to give me my retainer so that I could hire a different attorney to assist in ending my separation with my wife. Her representation of me was terrible. She caused more issues than she resolved. She was unable to make any headway with my wife who was Pro Se. Meaning she had NO attorney. The fact that her office originally lied and stated they had sent the check and then told me that they had not and would send my retainer to someone else and refused to cut me a check for the remaining balance has to be illegal in some way. I have filed formal complaints with NC STATE Bar. I would not do business with her and I question the partners only because they hired her to work in their firm. She has more loyalty to a non client than her actual clients. She is more interested in the money and draining a retainer because once you no longer need her legal services and she cannot bill you she is unhelpful and dishonest.
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02 Apr, 2019 by Christina
She has communicated every step of child custody process. Very professional and maintains contact with me and very responsive.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
she is first and foremost a liar and second to none in lost and confused person in her life.
After paying a retainer in excess of her childish demands for representation, along with changing schedules for court hearings and then finding out she instead needed a “nose job” thus resulting in no preparation for proper representation during hearings.
this woman needs to shunned and then invested by 1) IRS
2) Bar
Stay away from this fugazzi lawyer
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16 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I paid a retainer to pursue child support, 10 months later nothing had happened. She did not return emails or calls. I fired her and handled the court preceding myself
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Adoption Lawyer Can Do for You
An adoption lawyer specializes in navigating the legal complexities of the adoption process, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved - the adoptive parents, birth parents, and the child - are protected. They assist families through the different types of adoption, such as domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, and private adoptions. Adoption lawyers ensure that the adoption process complies with state, federal, and international laws, and handle any legal issues that may arise during the process, such as terminating parental rights, conducting home studies, and finalizing the adoption.
If you're looking to adopt or if you're a birth parent considering placing your child for adoption, an adoption lawyer can guide you through the legal requirements and ensure the process goes smoothly.
When Should I Hire an Adoption Lawyer?
You should consider hiring an adoption lawyer in the following situations:
- Private or independent adoption: If you’re adopting a child directly from the birth parents without the involvement of an adoption agency, a lawyer is essential to draft and review all legal documents, including consent forms and parental rights termination agreements.
- Foster care adoption: If you’re adopting a child from foster care, a lawyer can help navigate the legal process, ensure the child’s eligibility for adoption, and represent you in court to finalize the adoption.
- Stepparent or relative adoption: If you’re adopting a stepchild or a relative, a lawyer can assist in terminating the parental rights of the biological parent and ensure the adoption is completed legally and efficiently.
- International adoption: International adoptions are complex, involving multiple layers of laws from the U.S. and the child’s birth country. A lawyer can help navigate immigration requirements and ensure compliance with international treaties like the Hague Convention.
- Contested adoptions: If a birth parent changes their mind about the adoption or there is a dispute over parental rights, a lawyer can represent you in court and ensure that the adoption proceeds legally.
- Adoption for same-sex couples: If you're a same-sex couple looking to adopt, a lawyer can help ensure that your adoption complies with state laws and that both parents have equal legal rights to the child.
- Birth parent representation: If you’re a birth parent considering adoption, a lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, help you understand the legal implications of terminating parental rights, and ensure that your decision is legally sound.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help avoid legal complications and ensure that the adoption is legally finalized as smoothly as possible.
What Does an Adoption Lawyer Do?
An adoption lawyer provides a variety of legal services, ensuring that the adoption process is completed in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing legal paperwork: Adoption lawyers handle all the necessary paperwork, including petitions to terminate parental rights, consent forms, and final adoption decrees. They ensure that the adoption is in line with state, federal, and international laws.
- Conducting home studies: Some adoptions require a home study to evaluate the prospective adoptive family. While a social worker usually conducts the study, a lawyer can ensure that the process complies with legal requirements and that the report is submitted correctly.
- Terminating parental rights: Lawyers assist in terminating the legal rights of the biological parents, either voluntarily through signed consent or involuntarily through court proceedings if necessary.
- Representing clients in court: Adoption lawyers represent adoptive parents, birth parents, or other parties in court hearings to finalize the adoption or resolve disputes.
- Navigating international adoption laws: For international adoptions, a lawyer helps ensure that all legal requirements, both in the U.S. and the child’s home country, are met, including securing the child’s visa and citizenship.
- Providing legal advice: Adoption lawyers guide clients through each step of the adoption process, advising them on their rights and obligations, as well as any potential legal issues that may arise.
- Drafting post-adoption agreements: In some cases, especially open adoptions, a lawyer can help draft post-adoption agreements that specify the level of contact between the adoptive and birth parents.
How Are Adoption Lawyers Paid?
Adoption lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the adoption and the time involved. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many adoption lawyers charge a flat fee for handling the entire adoption process. This is common for straightforward adoptions, such as stepparent or foster care adoptions, where the legal work is relatively predictable.
- Hourly rate: For more complex adoptions, such as contested or international adoptions, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: In cases where the adoption process may take longer or involve more legal work (e.g., termination of parental rights or court disputes), a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, so you understand the total cost of the adoption and any additional expenses that may arise during the process.
How Much Does an Adoption Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an adoption lawyer depends on the type of adoption and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:
- Stepparent or relative adoption: Legal fees for these types of adoptions typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on whether the adoption is contested or requires a court hearing.
- Domestic private adoption: The legal fees for a private adoption usually range from $5,000 to $10,000, including drafting documents, terminating parental rights, and finalizing the adoption in court.
- International adoption: International adoptions are generally more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the adoption and the child’s country of origin.
- Contested adoption: If the adoption is contested and involves court disputes, legal fees may range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the length and complexity of the court proceedings.
In addition to lawyer fees, adoptive parents should also be aware of additional costs such as court filing fees, home study fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
Top Questions to Ask an Adoption Lawyer
Before hiring an adoption lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with adoptions?
Ensure the lawyer has experience with the specific type of adoption you’re pursuing, whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, or stepparent adoption. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or hourly rate and ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in your adoption. -
What are the legal requirements for my adoption?
Ask the lawyer to explain the legal steps involved in your adoption and any specific requirements that may apply to your case, such as home studies or parental consent. -
How long will the adoption process take?
Adoption timelines can vary depending on the type of adoption, so ask the lawyer for an estimate of how long the process will take, including any potential delays. -
What are the common challenges in adoption cases?
Ask about any potential legal challenges that could arise during the adoption process and how the lawyer plans to address them. -
Will I need to go to court?
Depending on the adoption, you may need to attend court hearings. Ask the lawyer whether your presence will be required and what to expect during these hearings. -
Can you help with post-adoption issues?
Ask the lawyer if they can assist with any post-adoption issues, such as obtaining the child’s birth certificate, finalizing the child’s U.S. citizenship (for international adoptions), or drafting post-adoption contact agreements.
How to Check the Credibility of an Adoption Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable adoption lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions on their record.
- Look for adoption experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in adoption law and have experience handling cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on adoption cases.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for lawyers who are members of adoption-focused organizations like the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys (AAAA), which can indicate their expertise in this field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with an adoption lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Information about the child and birth parents: Provide any available information about the child you’re adopting (e.g., age, country of origin, current living situation) and the birth parents, if applicable.
- Adoption preferences: Be clear about the type of adoption you’re pursuing - whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, or private - and discuss any preferences you have regarding the child’s age, background, or special needs.
- Legal documents (if applicable): If you’ve already begun the adoption process or have signed any agreements, bring copies of all relevant legal documents, such as consent forms or agency agreements.
- Questions about the adoption process: Prepare a list of questions about the legal steps involved in your adoption, potential timelines, and any concerns you may have about the process.
- Financial considerations: Be ready to discuss your budget for legal fees and any additional costs, such as home studies, court fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for your adoption journey.
