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01 Aug, 2024 by Damara ferguson
Ryan provided me with sound and wise counsel and responded immediately to my call. He’s a skilled and seasoned attorney!
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15 Jul, 2024 by Becky woods
Ryan was amazing! So helpful and knowledgeable.
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09 Jul, 2024 by Melissa cooper
The last thing anyone wants to do is file bankruptcy. But the right attorney makes all the difference. Ryan was amazing from start to finish! His knowledge makes the process easy and he eases the stress of the process. He makes sure you are completely prepared for your hearing to ensure a smooth process. I cannot enough good things about my experience and would highly recommend him to anyone in search of a great bankruptcy attorney.
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20 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I was a previous client of Elisa Staats & even though it’s been 8 or 9 years, I just wanted to share some positivity and say that we still are so grateful for her hard work, determination, and persistence!!
We live in another state and she helped us get custody of my husbands son who was living in Ohio in a terrible living situation with his other parent. Thanks to Mrs. Statts persistently jumping the courts hurdles and ICPC hoops, never giving up or backing down, we did get custody & my stepson got to live out the rest of his childhood with us where he has absolutely thrived. He just graduated high school last week and has enlisted in the army to serve our country. I just felt moved to come back and leave this review because she made a difference in our lives by fighting so hard for us!! Sometimes it is just nice to know you had an impact on someone’s life, no matter how big or small it seemed. To us, it was big. So thank you again. We were lucky to have found you.
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23 Sep, 2016 by Dayna
Attorney Staats recently represented me in a lengthy, complex divorce case. She is an extremely intelligent, warm, compassionate, hard-working attorney who really fights for her clients. Always timely and responsive, she patiently addressed all my questions and concerns throughout the entire process.
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07 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Situation: My son lives in Columbus, & his minor son lives in Akron. My son got notice his son was in a bad situation with his mother, & he had to fight the maternal grandmother for custody. To be honest, I came about Ms. Staats phone number desperately trying to find a lawyer for my son on just a few days’ notice. We weren't local, and Ms. Staats was the ONLY lawyer not only to answer the phone herself, but to take the time and talk over the situation with me, AND agreed to be in court in just 3 days’ notice! Wow! She really came to bat for my son. While the other lawyer resorted to "Jerry Springer" type tactics in the court room, Ms. Staats countered every low blow statement and ridiculous motions with a professional attitude coupled with a mother tiger's ferociousness in protecting my son & his rights, and his son's best interest. Even the mother to my grandson said "I don't know where you found that lawyer, but WOW! She wouldn't let mom's lawyer get away with anything. She's impressive!"
Elisa was responsive to emails and calls when her scheduled allowed, and always got back with us. It took 10 LONG months for my son to get custody, several hearings, pretrials and motions, but really, we got every pennies’ worth of professional representation from Ms. Staats and her advice to follow during that time. When it came down to trial, she brought with her TWO of the biggest organized binders of categorized evidence and information, questions for witnesses etc.. And was VERY prepared to go to trial. Our family, & our son was extremely impressed at the detail of her work. We thank heavens that Elisa Staats was that one lawyer who answered my desperate call for help that day. Now my son has his son living with him again & they both are so very very happy!! (And so are we!) We feel Ms. Staats was overly fair in her cost, & she was always upfront on any fees or potential future fees/costs that could happen. We also feel that she did NOT "nickle and dime us" on everything, we got more than our money's worth hiring her to represent our son and his son's best interest. Elisa Staats was our angel for my son's case. Our family cannot say enough awesome things on Elisa's behalf. We were blessed to find her.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
While you can hire any domestic attorney to represent you and be billed for services, Harvey is well-known and respected in the community, his fees were reasonable, and he listened to my wishes to remain amicable or hold the line as necessitated. He cared about my circumstances and children. Harvey provided sage wisdom and guidance that I am forever grateful for. I have recommended him and made referrals,a nd will continue to do so. Best of the best!
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09 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Harvey was a life saver! I found him using Avvo and consulted with him regarding moving a child support case from MD to OH. He was responsive, and provided great advice! When an emergency happened with my kids, he called me back right away, listened to what I had to say and provided a list of attorney's that could help immediately, since he was busy for the emergency hearing. I would hire him in an instant if the situation were changed just a little bit! It was great that he what honest with his workload and did not try to take on too much, but also recommended an outstanding lawyer as well. I highly recommend him to anyone in the Akron area!
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11 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I am extremely grateful that Attorney Eric Skidmore agreed to step in to replace my original divorce counsel. The case had been ongoing several years when it was dropped by Summit County, and my husband then filed for divorce in another state. Eric had plenty of work to do. My husband had secured a divorce very much in his favor outside of Ohio. Eric filed on my behalf in the Ninth District Court of Appeals and fought successfully to allow my divorce case to reopen in Summit County. It was a battle, but after a total of 8.5 years of litigation, Eric secured a much more equitable divorce. He skillfully writes affidavits and is extremely well prepared for court. You will find Eric to be smart, hard working, and compassionate.
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14 Apr, 2023 by Larry fisher
Eric Skidmore is the consummate professional; very detailed, excellent communicator, strong legal knowledge and empathetic.
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26 Feb, 2023 by Shannon lacy
I called looking for help to get out of a relationship that is not good and get a run around.
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15 Feb, 2019 by Gina
If you are up a creek without a paddle then look no further than Mr. Tim McKinzie, the head honcho of McKinzie and Associates! When my young child's father needed an attorney to represent him in a malicious, emotionally draining, and on-going custody battle because I left him, his choice in retaining Tim made perfect sense! Tim is more famous locally for his dedication to getting those charged with criminal acts (multiple DUIs, assault, etc.) off as easy as possible as to not be accountable for their actions. In THIS case, however, his versatility was really spotlighted as he proudly used every scare tactic and humiliation method against me to unlawfully and unethically produce a "win" for his client. This display was unparalleled in that he showed literally no compassion, no understanding, and had no interest in my responses to his client's accusations, but rather mercilessly drilled me to tears until I was almost forced to just "take what I could get". If you are in need of a lawyer that will have to violate any and/or all standards and ethical codes to get you the results you want, Tim is your man! He even personally reached out to me via letter to please contact him with questions or concerns! I did and he got back to me promptly but I think he may have been having cramps or something because he very rudely hung up on me 30 seconds into conversation for asking him a question. He did inform me that was not how "things worked" first, so I even was given free legal advice! Thanks Tim, for keeping the stereotype of cutthroat law alive!
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06 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
He answered my question and also answered when I emailed him though here. Shows that he actually cares which is very good quality.
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23 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Tim really helped me in my 13 year old out of state DUI case. He made the process easy, and in the end did all he could to really make sure that I had the least punishments possible. Thank you Tim.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Jenna markiewicz
She was very nice and helpful!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Bryce kaser
30 Oct, 2024 by Ashley poole
I have her right now and so far she's kind and she listens to me and in fact is taking her time to go over everything and I hope and pray she she's I have been accused of a wrong act I have my faith in this woman. Every defender in akron has dropped me why I don't know but but my faith is in her I appreciate you and the judge lady ❤️ that sent my case to you
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06 Nov, 2024 by Jenna markiewicz
She was very nice and helpful!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Bryce kaser
30 Oct, 2024 by Ashley poole
I have her right now and so far she's kind and she listens to me and in fact is taking her time to go over everything and I hope and pray she she's I have been accused of a wrong act I have my faith in this woman. Every defender in akron has dropped me why I don't know but but my faith is in her I appreciate you and the judge lady ❤️ that sent my case to you
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24 Dec, 2024 by Candy lillo
I cant't thank Randy and his staff for getting me through toughest time of my life. It was a battle. But in the end I got what Randy proposed. I I felt very confident that my case would have a great outcome. I also felt Randy and Suzanne were always warm and made me feel comfortable. It was the hardest thing I have ever had to do and I am so glad they represented me!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Greg farkas
29 Nov, 2024 by Mary adelman
Randy and his associates were the best legal team I could ask for. He treated me with respect and helped me navigate a very difficult situation such as divorce with compassion and understanding. Suzanne and Mary, along with his other associates answered all my concerns promptly and with compassion too! It truly is the best law firm to work with! I highly recommend Randal Lowry & Associates!
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18 Dec, 2023 by Elle burton
26 Jun, 2023 by Atrice black
Very rude and disrespectful I called trying to get information on a case , and he answered the online saying he doesn’t care and to not keep calling his cell phone over and over again , for him to be paid and that this is his career that was very unprofessional of him to respond in that manner . He didn’t even give me a chance to address my self he automatically responded with “He doesn’t care and to stop calling him and to leave a message , that kinda made me upset because I was looking forward to him helping me
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17 Jan, 2023 by Kimberly
Mr. Wallace was my Childs G.A.L on a case. Our attorney was advising to plea instead of taking it to trial. Mr. Wallace drove over 2 hours to go over our case and show us the evidence. We decided to take our case to trial and WON thanks to Mr. Wallace. He is down to earth and very easy to talk to and we never had a problem getting ahold of him. He really goes above and beyond for the child.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Cynthia
She faught her heart out for me and my children whom were being manipulated by my ex husband's new wife, no jealousy on my end I left him! She was forcing my children to lie to school authorities along with police and children protective services. My ex and his family have a lot of money so they kept us tied up in court for a bit. But in the end I won Full custody and crazy step mom isn't allowed near my children ever! Denise is the real deal, she will work her butt off as long as you don't lie or hide things. She genuinely cares for people.
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08 Sep, 2019 by Patricia
Was very unhappy with her performance as a lawyer. She DID work with me financially. But other then that lost a case that should have been won.. Not enough fight against untrue statements in court or things that should have been brought up were not. Amongst many other things she said we would talk before court . I was scared to death . She did not talk to me. People started coming in in the room we were in before going into court room they were sitting around laughing and talking while I was in tears because we did not able to talk in private. . I speak the truth.
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31 Jul, 2010 by Jack
Very knowledgeable and very dedicated to each and every case. She is one attorney that DOES work for YOU and your case, as long as you are honest and upfront. Recommend her highly!
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18 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired attorney and complete waste of time. Did not want to handle difficult issues with child custody case. He would mention needing a mediator when talking to him about complex issues. Ended up not getting a response back from him he completely ghosted me and told me he was no longer my attorney and to look elsewhere. Very unprofessional!!
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02 Sep, 2022 by Matt
DO NOT HIRE THIS GUY!!!
If you just need an attorney to show up to court this your guy! Don’t expect any actual effort to be put forward.
This clown will not go to bat for you. He charged me to have 5 witnesses subpoenaed for court yet not a single one was subpoenaed. The morning of our most recent court appearance he made me scramble to contact the previously stated witnesses to ask them if they would be able to join via telephone for the hearing (this was at 5:00 A.M.) I was able to contact two of them at that time and both were extremely confused as they hadn’t heard from him and weren’t in a position to give their testimony. In a year and a half he never appeared as if he was actually prepared. when push comes to shove he would blame me for changes in circumstances. Silas and his office staff are extremely unorganized. I had to repeatedly send him the same information and documents. I finally had enough and fired this lazy piece of crap yesterday.
Please don’t make the same mistake that I made.
DO NOT HIRE THIS GUY!!!!
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24 Jul, 2020 by Brian
Silas has been instrumental in successfully guiding me through the probate system on two occasions. I was executor on my father & his wife's estate, and Silas was great throughout the whole, painful, bureaucratic, legal nightmare of probate.
As others have said his response time is excellent. I was NEVER left hanging and every E-mail was responded to quickly, sometimes way after normal hours. I would send a message late, assuming he would respond in the A.M., but often got a response instantly.
Silas also prepared Wills for many family members, Powers of attorneys, et cetera, His treatment of my very elderly and not-very-trusting-of-lawyers Mother and her husband during the estate planning process, was very professional and personable at the same time. He won them over in a single meeting!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I was desperately in need of an attorney so I decided to call of Slater and Zurz. I wish I had never called because Jeffery Hawkins lost my case which should have been easy to win. He never defended me and gave into easily to other attorneys. He never fought my case and I had to continuously send thesame email over and over again and got charged because he wasnt listening to what I was saying. He was more concerned about getting paid than help me and my family. My kids were in harms way and he did nothing but try to get me out the door. Always too busy to talk. Don’t do the same mistake I did. Don't let someone like him defend you and your family because you will lose the case even though I as the mother had all the evidence and we still lost because he wasn’t defending. He was rushing out the court house so he could go on vacation. He would rather talk about Taco Bell and his family than my case and my family that he is getting paid for to defend. I am writing this review to hopefully help others before it is too late.
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11 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
If you are looking for someone to F*ck your case up literally look no further. Jeff here is THAT man.
Poor communication at it's finest. My initial phone interview went well with Jeff. So well I scheduled a 2nd and by the end of the 2nd I hired him. He blew so much smoke up my rear about what he could do it was unreal.
When it came time to actually put those words into action he failed at an epic level. He is too interested in his own custody shannanigans with his grand child to be worried about YOUR issues.
Need an appeal filed? My as well file your own... I had to file my initial appeal myself. My subsequent appeal that needed filed by Jeff was filed late which in turn got my case dismissed.
After case was dismissed Jeff slapped me with a bill requesting an additional $567.00. I do not feel comfortable paying for services not properly rendered.
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06 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Hawkins decided that 8 minutes before my first divorce hearing via Skype would be a good time to learn how to set up a Skype account. He failed miserably . Being 25 minutes late didn't make the magistrate very happy and he let Hawkins know it throughout the whole hearing and it showed in his ruling. He was under prepared and over matched by opposing counsel. He basically went down in a ball of flames after being smoked by my ex's attorney. His handling of paper work was pitiful rendering it usless. Needless to say he did me more harm than good and was promptly fired. Avoid Hawkins at all costs.
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What a Child Custody Lawyer Can Do for You
A child custody lawyer specializes in helping parents navigate legal matters related to the custody and care of their children, particularly in the context of divorce, separation, or other family disputes. These lawyers assist with determining custody arrangements, drafting parenting plans, and advocating for your rights in court. They also help resolve disputes over physical custody (where the child lives), legal custody (who makes decisions for the child), visitation rights, and modifications to existing custody orders.
Whether you're going through a divorce or need to change an existing custody arrangement, a child custody lawyer can help you understand your rights and protect your child's best interests throughout the legal process.
When Should I Hire a Child Custody Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child custody lawyer in several situations, especially when disputes arise or complex legal issues affect your parental rights. Some common reasons to hire a child custody lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: If you're going through a divorce or separation and need to establish custody and visitation arrangements, a lawyer can help ensure the custody order reflects your child's best interests.
- Disputed custody cases: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody or visitation terms, a lawyer can advocate for your rights in court and help you develop a strong case.
- Modification of custody orders: If you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to changes in circumstances (e.g., relocation, changes in the child’s needs), a lawyer can help file a modification request.
- Parental alienation: If the other parent is interfering with your relationship with your child, a lawyer can help address these issues through legal action.
- Domestic violence or abuse: If there is a history of domestic violence or abuse, a lawyer can help protect you and your child by requesting restraining orders and advocating for appropriate custody arrangements.
- Grandparent or third-party custody: If you are a grandparent or another relative seeking custody or visitation rights, a lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
- Paternity disputes: In cases where paternity is in question, a lawyer can assist with establishing or challenging paternity, which may affect custody and visitation rights.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help protect your parental rights and ensure that the custody arrangement is in your child's best interests.
What Does a Child Custody Lawyer Do?
A child custody lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents resolve custody disputes and secure favorable custody arrangements for their children. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing custody petitions: Helping you file the necessary paperwork to request custody or visitation rights and ensuring all legal procedures are followed.
- Negotiating custody agreements: Assisting in negotiating custody and visitation arrangements, often working toward a mutually beneficial parenting plan without going to court.
- Representing you in court: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody terms, representing you in court by presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Drafting parenting plans: Helping you draft a comprehensive parenting plan that outlines the schedule for physical custody, decision-making responsibilities, and visitation.
- Handling child support issues: Assisting with related issues such as child support, ensuring that financial obligations are properly calculated and enforced.
- Modifying custody orders: Helping you request a modification from the court if you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to significant life changes.
- Mediating custody disputes: Acting as a mediator to help both parents reach an agreement on custody and visitation without the need for litigation.
How Are Child Custody Lawyers Paid?
Child custody lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case, the time involved, and the nature of the legal work. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child custody lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer's experience and location. The total cost depends on the time spent preparing documents, negotiating, and representing you in court.
- Flat fee: For simple custody matters or uncontested custody agreements, some lawyers may offer a flat fee for specific services, such as drafting a parenting plan or filing a custody petition.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount varies based on the expected complexity and duration of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers may offer reduced fees or pro bono (free) services for clients with limited financial means, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or other serious issues.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are included.
How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child custody lawyer depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case, whether it’s contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested custody cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and any negotiations.
- Contested custody cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the issues, the need for expert testimony, and the time spent in litigation.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or complex custody disputes.
- Mediation services: If both parents agree to work through mediation, costs typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for the mediation process.
Always ask for a clear cost estimate during your consultation to ensure that you understand the total legal fees and payment structure.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Custody Lawyer
Before hiring a child custody lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Some key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with child custody cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, especially if your case involves complex issues like domestic violence, relocation, or paternity disputes. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees for certain services, or requires a retainer, and ask for an estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Inquire about the expected timeline from filing the petition to reaching an agreement or going to trial. -
Will you personally handle my case?
Ensure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
Can we pursue mediation or alternative dispute resolution?
Ask whether the lawyer recommends mediation or other forms of dispute resolution to avoid a lengthy court battle.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Custody Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child custody lawyer, follow these 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 and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and child custody cases.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge the lawyer’s professionalism and success in child custody matters.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on custody cases.
- Check for certifications: Look for lawyers who are board-certified in family law or have memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) or local family law sections.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a child custody lawyer, come prepared with relevant documents and information:
- Court orders or existing custody agreements: Bring copies of any existing custody or visitation orders for the lawyer to review.
- Communication with the other parent: Provide copies of emails, texts, or letters regarding custody, visitation, or disputes.
- List of your child’s needs: Prepare a list of your child’s specific needs, such as medical care, education, and extracurricular activities.
- Timeline of the case: Outline key events related to your custody case, including changes in living situations or parental involvement.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the custody process, legal fees, and the lawyer’s strategy for your case.
By being well-prepared, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible advice for protecting your rights and your child’s well-being.
