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23 Dec, 2024 by Lisa little
Highly recommend Murphy & Practhauser. Their knowledge & expertise became evident very quickly & they truly care & take an interest in your well being....not just winning the case.
We had a VERY positive outcome thanks to them & while our case is over, if we ever need legal assistance again it will be with Murphy & Practhauser. Thank you!!!
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14 Dec, 2024 by Patty beck
My case was small compared to what Mark Mingo typically handles, however he handled it with the same amount of care and compassion. I can't thank Mark and Kim enough for what they did for me. I would recommend Mark Mingo and his law firm to anybody. Thank you again Mark for you empathy and compassion!
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06 Dec, 2024 by Kurt haefs
After researching Personal Injury lawyers, I found Mark Mingo, JD and knew right away that he was who I needed..and that was the best decision ever!
Mark and Kim worked tirelessly, thoroughly, professionally, and with real compassion for me and my case.
He expertly quided me through ever step of what can be a difficult process..and made it much easier to get happily settled.
Many thanks to all at Mingo & Yankala!
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13 May, 2024 by Jeffrey bischoff
This is the second post that I have made for Sallie Rubenzer and if I could do a thousand, I would. Sllaie help my wife and I to become my sisters guardian. A difficult and emotional process. BUT Sallie steered us through the entire process. As a lawyer, Sallie is everything you could hope for: Smart, Professional and a complete understanding of the law. However, it was her Charm, Empathy and big heart that makes Sallie such a wonderful person. If you need help, then Sallie is who you want to hire.
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13 May, 2024 by Jenny lauters
Ms. Sallie Rubenzer was nothing but professional. She really listens, very understanding and very efficient. She does her job very well! Thank you so much!!!
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18 Mar, 2024 by Lori dannels
Updated: Response: See edit on 8/23/2024 in response yo Attorney Sally Rubenzer’s response:::
My suggestion to anyone thinking about hiring Attorney Sally L. Rubenzer DON’T DO IT!!! Google her first. (Fox 6 news). You’ll see a picture of her start reading there. I experienced this first hand while I was going through my divorce with Attorney Sally Rubenzer.
I am disabled (Attorney Sally Rubenzer was aware of this fact) Around the end of the divorce, I lost my son from my first marriage. . I don’t recall much of the details of the end of my divorce due to this.
Attorney Sally Rubenzer refused to slowly Proceedings down.
Attorney Sally Rubenzer took me for $20,000. Left me with a debt of my ex husband’s. Attorney Sally Rubenzer was aware of the fact that debt was my ex husband and did nothing to correct the issue. Attorney Sally Rubenzer fought more for my ex husband than she did for me (her client).
I HAVE REQUESTED MANY TIMES TO SEND ME THE PAPERWORK OF THE WORK THAT SHE CHARGED ME FOR !!! 2024 still nothing.
Attorney Sally Rubenzer only fights for herself and her next drink.
8/23/2024 Edited. Attorney Sally Rubenzer,
Let’s be honest with the clients.
I requested them in 2015. I left messages after messages with no response to this day.
I did not receive any thing that I was requesting until after my review above. Not one return call.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Excellent divorce guidance. Straightforward approach and let me chose direction when it applied. Rhonda's organization was superior to the "other" team and crunched the numbers that made sense. Was referred to her and I will refer others to her. Job well done.
Her Paralegal, Jenny is an absolute angel here on Earth. So much thanks to Jenny as well for working so hard for my case.
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08 Oct, 2022 by Patty
Rhonda and her team were very helpful in getting us thru this process. The ladies in the office would answer any questions that I would have and helped figure out some things that I needed to find. I will definitely use Rhonda in the future if needed.
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23 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Rhonda did little as possible for my custody battle for my son , refused to address any police reports filed on the other party when given this law office video proof, she helped hide me from knowing my son was already baptized, chose not to fight for my rights to my son , sent interrogatories without me being able to see prior, which other party refused to answer and hurt me and my son from having a quality life and placement, also refused to discuss billing issues, abused my retainer and extra to benefit the other party , beyond heartbreaking
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18 Aug, 2016 by Margarite
Emily Long assisted me while pursuing a divorce. However, much of her dedication and support superseded any reasonable expectations. Emily was a central figure in pursuing my wellness and fair and reasonable expectations from others. She represented me in various criminal offenses and legal actions regarding my mental health. Emily aided me in providing me in chance to begin again.
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15 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Emily was very helpful at every phase of the divorce process, both in being knowledgeable of the law and in her handling of the people & emotional aspects involved. She also worked very efficiently so that costs did not become a burden. I would work with her again and would not hesitate to refer to her. I was very satisfied with her results.
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12 Jun, 2016 by Mary
I hired Emily to represent me in my divorce based on Avvo reviews. At my first meeting she told me to start to pay my estranged husband's bills, her opinion was that I would be paying them in the end anyway. She gave in way too easily, I don't feel she fought hard for me, I also found her to be condescending. I would not recommend her.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Rebecca paz
Immensely thankful for the assistance in a couple critical legal matters!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Jacquelynne miller
The experience with The Law Center was simplified for us so much. We had a more complicated case but Emily took all the stress off of us. They were incredibly personable, kind, and flexible with us. The most amazing experience with a lawyer I’ve ever had!
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15 Jun, 2024 by Stacey hansen
On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, I contacted The Law Center, S.C. and spoke with paralegal Stephanie. I was emailed an offer to consult, scheduled a zoom meeting with Cedric for next week Tuesday, June 18, 2pm-4pm.
I made the $350 payment, then received an email from Stephanie on the same day stating that The Law Center, S.C. was unable to assist me. I was told to contact an attorney in Minnesota where I live, the other family members concerned live in Wisconsin. On The Law Center, S.C. website it states that Cedric is licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin.
It's definitely not good business to accept, schedule appointments with clients, take their money then decline their case. Especially because your attorney team claims to care about families.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Rebecca paz
Immensely thankful for the assistance in a couple critical legal matters!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Jacquelynne miller
The experience with The Law Center was simplified for us so much. We had a more complicated case but Emily took all the stress off of us. They were incredibly personable, kind, and flexible with us. The most amazing experience with a lawyer I’ve ever had!
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15 Jun, 2024 by Stacey hansen
On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, I contacted The Law Center, S.C. and spoke with paralegal Stephanie. I was emailed an offer to consult, scheduled a zoom meeting with Cedric for next week Tuesday, June 18, 2pm-4pm.
I made the $350 payment, then received an email from Stephanie on the same day stating that The Law Center, S.C. was unable to assist me. I was told to contact an attorney in Minnesota where I live, the other family members concerned live in Wisconsin. On The Law Center, S.C. website it states that Cedric is licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin.
It's definitely not good business to accept, schedule appointments with clients, take their money then decline their case. Especially because your attorney team claims to care about families.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Rebecca paz
Immensely thankful for the assistance in a couple critical legal matters!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Jacquelynne miller
The experience with The Law Center was simplified for us so much. We had a more complicated case but Emily took all the stress off of us. They were incredibly personable, kind, and flexible with us. The most amazing experience with a lawyer I’ve ever had!
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15 Jun, 2024 by Stacey hansen
On Wednesday, June 12, 2024, I contacted The Law Center, S.C. and spoke with paralegal Stephanie. I was emailed an offer to consult, scheduled a zoom meeting with Cedric for next week Tuesday, June 18, 2pm-4pm.
I made the $350 payment, then received an email from Stephanie on the same day stating that The Law Center, S.C. was unable to assist me. I was told to contact an attorney in Minnesota where I live, the other family members concerned live in Wisconsin. On The Law Center, S.C. website it states that Cedric is licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin.
It's definitely not good business to accept, schedule appointments with clients, take their money then decline their case. Especially because your attorney team claims to care about families.
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01 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Poor communication skills, poor representation, didn’t know my case or care to, and didn’t conclude with any results before sending a minimal amount (to standards of a credit agency but more than what his worth) to haunt my credit without my knowledge. Had to retain representation to actually advocate for my rights. I’ve been dealing with family law attorneys for some time, and this one is not worth your time or money. He won’t get results and will take you. However, it appears if your case matters to him, he may care. Beware.
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04 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Attorney Borchardt is a great attorney. He is fair, he gives an honest opinion and worked hard for me and my children. I found Mr. Borchardt to be very professional, knowledgeable and he and his staff were easy to work with. I would recommend Mr. Borchardt if you are looking for someone to work with you through your divorce.
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08 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Peter was WONDERFUL for our family law case. For all parents out there, he represents what is RIGHT and will get it done! Don't walk in to ANY attorney and expect to hang the other parent based on what YOU think is right! Peter knows the law, he knows the strategy, and he will tell you how it is! He believed in us and that what we were doing was right and he stood by us and did what was best for the CHILD! No lawyer can work miracles, and if you're expectations are completely unreason
able, he will tell you! Thank you, attorney Borchardt for helping us and doing what is right! You made a difference in a child's life, and we are forever grateful for you! I highly recommend him if you're heart is in the right place! He will fight for you!
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28 Dec, 2023 by Bret koth
05 Nov, 2023 by Yvette harris
22 May, 2023 by Joseph brown
Michael was easy to work with and helped me through my divorce process. He explained in detail everything that I needed to know and guided me from the beginning to the end. I would definitely recommend Michael for any family law related issues.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Ryan
Dylan Gehrtz was an amazing lawyer. He worked very hard on my case, and I had a better outcome than I could imagine. I would have to say if you want things to work out for the best hire this firm. I would never go anywhere else thanks for all the hard work and God bless you all.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Chad vanepps
I retained this law firm for $3,500.00 for some traffic tickets. My appointed attorney did absolutely nothing for my charges/outcome and spent $3,418.29 and then removed themselves from my case. I was out that money and nothing changed with my case/tickets. If you value your money, find a different lawfirm.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Lisa ebert
Very unprofessional sent me a letter stating I owed them over 10,000 dollars never heard of this law firm and never dealt with them. Threatened to turn me in to collections. Found out this morning they sent this to the wrong person. They do not even know who their clients are and where did they get my address from? Beware I would think twice before dealing with them. Way to try an ruin someone's credit.
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23 Mar, 2023 by Kendra
John Ward and his team have been nothing less then spectacular. My case has been a load and a half, DV, divorce, custody battle and many appeals. John has never backed down, he has stood strong and always fought for my son and I's best intrest and keeping us safe all the while. John and Michelle are always a phone call away and are very supportive, making sure all the bases are covered. I am so thankful for everything that John and his team do to stay on top of everything, 10/10 recommended.
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24 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
BEWARE! John Ward is a scum bag. He makes glitter look like gold during a consultation and after he receives payments does absolutely nothing. Mr Ward is a thief. He makes up false billing fees stating he is doing work for your case when he does nothing. Even though I lost thousands of dollars, firing Mr Ward was the best decision I could have made. Please don’t waste your time and money on this man. After all the complaints with the State Bar of Wisconsin I am surprised he is still able to he’s not disbarred!
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04 Jun, 2020 by Paulette
John Anthony Ward is representing us in a custody case. Mr. Ward is a consummate professional, and he treats us as though we are his only clients. He works hard for us, and he keeps us informed about the progress of the case. We win every time we go to court thanks to Mr. Ward.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Kevin sterwald
Their communication and responsiveness to all questions was amazing. They always kept me updated with everything and really made the process easy.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Harland egly
They really took care of everything I needed. On time, professional, and helpful in anyway that was needed. Best thing I ever did was reaching out to this firm. Highly recommend.Thanks again!!!
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04 Nov, 2024 by Lauren h.
Absolute powerhouse women in this office!
Highly, highly recommend. So incredibly grateful for all they've done for me and my children.
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11 Nov, 2024 by Daniel lyons
Katharine Grafft was an amazing help to us. She was able to work with us, understand the complexities of the case and quickly resolve our matters in a favorable outcome. I would highly recommend her to anyone located in southern WI. We will continue to keep a relationship with Dillon Grube in the future. Thanks!
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21 Oct, 2024 by Colton measner
Josh was my first call when my family went through a difficult time. Not only did I know too but everyone I knew said you need to call Josh. From start to finish, he worked hard and delivered clarity for us. In my mind, got us the best deal for our father we were gonna get. Made time for us not matter what and showed he truly cared about my fathers case. Even after all was said and done, he stayed in touch with myself and family to answer any questions that came up. My family and I can't say enough how thankful we were to have Josh and his firm in our corner. I completely recommend him if you ever get into any legal trouble!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Tim clemons
I highly recommend Dillon Grube Law. Josh was my Attorney and was great to work with. I am happy with the results, and I would not hesitate to hire him again.
-Tim
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31 May, 2023 by Julie
Peggy Miller should not be a court commissioner. She knows nothing about how abuse works and is not qualified to be deciding people's lives. I told her how I was beaten up, attacked, threatened, abused. Her and the man who had an expensive lawyer made fun and laughed at me. She turned 8 years worth of abuse into a joke, and let him abuse me more than I could take. I told her I could not take any more, but she couldn't care less about a woman's life. I said I would pay for lie detector tests for the both of us. She said they wouldn't be admissable as evidence. I said no, but when I pass and he fails it will be a good indicator of who is telling the truth! Now there will be consequences to letting him take my life away.
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27 Jun, 2015 by Greg
It was a pleasure working with attorney Miller. She always kept me informed. Did what I asked. Always answered my questions. And always gave me a very fast reply.
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07 Mar, 2015 by Kasey otis
I was going through a custody battle for my daughter. Before she was born I already knew court was the only way we were going to settle this. I was researching and talking to many people about who is the best family court attourney in wisconsin and multiple people told me Peggy Miller. I made the phone call aand talked to attourney Miller then we sat down and talked. She told me from the beginning exactly the approach we would take ans everything we could make happen. I was very confident in what she told me when i left her office and already had my mind made up she was the attourney for us. Long story short everything Peggy told me would happen the first day i met with her and she made it happen almost just as easy. I got everything i wanted out of this case and i now have my daughter! My ex girlfriend went through 2 attourneys with this case and Peggy handled them with no issues what so ever. Im glad to have her on my side. Working against Peggy would have been a nightmare! As far as communication goes shes second to none. Anytime of day i could email her and she would get back to me almost immediatly. It didnt matter if it was 8 oclock on a wednesday morning or 9 oclock on a friday night the response was almost instant. Peggy is hands down worth every dollar spend and I feel very fortunate to have her on our side! If your going through a family or custody battle she is the attorney for you! You wont be let down!
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02 Jan, 2014 by Bonnie
I read the one review and was worried because she was so super nice when we talked to her, but WOW was she tough in court! We knew she would tell it like it is to us and not waste our money but she totally fought like crazy in court but was so helpful the whole way. Answered all our questions and we never felt rushed, and we knew exactly what to expect once we were in trial. So happy we found her!
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27 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
She handled my family issues and a friend's criminal issues. Did a really good job, went to bat for us every chance she could. Well worth the money and would work with her again!
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12 Jun, 2013 by Bill
To young and inexperienced. Courts assigned her to me, in lieu of a public defender ( public pretender ) Seemed to be working alongside the state, rather than with me. Not aggressive. Didn't know how to communicate well.
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31 Jul, 2019 by Evelyn
John Murphy is a nice guy but his ethics need some work. He handled my case for almost a year. He never returns phone calls unless you repeatedly call his office. We’re talking weeks not days. Never answers your emails. Tried to get a petition filed right away but due to his poor communication it was filed 4 months later. Told me the filing was done in December, not record with the court house. Wasn’t done till January after I made multiple calls to his office. If you want a lawyer that’s passive, he’s your man.
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09 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Even though my case was quite a few years ago, I am still paying fees for extremely poor representation. If I could have seen reviews like this before hiring John Murphy, the outcome and my bills could have been very different. I feel obligated to post to help someone else needing an attorney in the future. This is not the one to hire. Communication did not exist. I made so many phone calls that were not returned, and not provided interrogatories and therefore contempt charges were filed. Luckily the legal secretary called me at the last minute on a Friday asking for them when they were due on Monday. I was still charged with contempt of court, but then cleared when I pointed out my attorney failed to deliver. He was not prepared for court dates, and even failed to notify me of one that was scheduled. This man should not be practicing family law. With so many bad reviews that are consistent stories, I don't understand why he is. I was also charged for things that did not happen at all. Phone calls that were not made, work that was not completed. Very disappointing.
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17 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired him to represent me in a family matter the initial meeting went over okay however after the first court hearing it became obvious that John Murphy was only in this for a paycheck he's very disorganized and does a very poor job with client follow up during the process it became obvious John Murphy is more focused on building alliances and relationships with his fellow attorneys than looking after the best interest of his client this guy took my money never called me back withdrew motions that I had open in court
John Murphy allows his personal beliefs to guide him through a court case not what the client has hired him for he decides what he wants to do and never consults you additionally he absolutely will never return a phone call I personally called him 15 two 25 times over the span of two months and he never returned my call
Specifically custody and visitation is what I hired him for in addition to child support as it stood Walworth County child support department said that I owed in excess of $25,000 in child support arrears
As it turns out he did nothing and what ultimately happened was on my own after going to court for five years it was proven Walworth County child support have been collecting child support for years and not crediting it to the proper account and I was issued a $25,000 credit for past-due child
Whether or not John Murphy believed me when I retained him and told him I didn't know any past due child support is it relevant clearly he didn't believe me however he still should have provided me at least a rudimentary level of defense for the baseless assertion that I owed this child support and he never did
I had to face a contempt of court hearing on myown
hiring John Murphy was like hiring another attorney to work against me in the process of fighting for custody and try to straighten out the mess of Child Support
John Murphy provided me the worst possible experience a client could get from an attorney I would not recommend him to anyone
I'm so extremely disappointed that I wasted my money my time and my efforts on this attorney
I was nearly put in jail for contempt of court for not paying child support that I never owed he sold me up a creek to the child support attorney and I was left to sort the mess out on my own after I paid him ultimately as stated earlier I did receive a $25,000 credit for past-due child support that I did On My Own by continually going to court and defending myself after I paayed john Murphy
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05 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
She talked a big game in the initial consultation (for this alone I was slapped with an enormous bill). When all was said and done, I got standard child support, and half of my ex's enormous debt load - that's it. Could have gotten that walking in there by myself. To top it off, received a HUGE bill 4x what other lawyer's had quoted me during their FREE initial consultations. She did not listen to me, she charged me to keep redoing paperwork that I told her straight away my ex would never agree to. She kept saying, if we go to court we'll get A, B, and C, but when push came to shove, told me it wasn't worth going to court because we'd never get A, B, or C. Extremely frustrating experience. I also thought she initiated way too much personal conversation which I later realized she was charging me an arm and a leg to listen to. Totally not worth it. I'm still shoveling out money to her while my ex is living the high life.
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26 Dec, 2011 by Anonymous
she greatly misinformed our family without taking time to get the proof facts and caused alot of unnecessary harm.
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26 Jun, 2023 by Elyse biesboer
23 Nov, 2021 by Virginia
Corrupt - needs to be removed from office and held accountable.
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23 Nov, 2021 by Dr. suzette scheuermann phd rn
The laws must be so lax or nonexistent to allow a man to post a 1000 bond after violating his family domestically and then to go on to drive his car through a Christmas parade. I am so sorry for the city and country.
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26 Jun, 2023 by Elyse biesboer
23 Nov, 2021 by Virginia
Corrupt - needs to be removed from office and held accountable.
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23 Nov, 2021 by Dr. suzette scheuermann phd rn
The laws must be so lax or nonexistent to allow a man to post a 1000 bond after violating his family domestically and then to go on to drive his car through a Christmas parade. I am so sorry for the city and country.
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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.
