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05 Nov, 2024 by Derrick evans
I’m so glad I chose Josephia Law. I’ve been in divorce proceedings for over a year now. And every step of the way the people at Josephia Law have been prompt, professional, compassionate, and knowledgeable. The attorney on my case is Massa Massaquoi-King. I’m lucky to have her on my case. She is very knowledgeable and experienced. She’s also very attentive, I don’t have to explain things more than once and she will let me know the best way we should proceed.
Not only is she great at her job, she really cares. Up until recently, my wife was not allowing me to take my son to see my family without her. Recently at the merits hearing for my divorce case, Massa displayed her knowledge and experience in that courtroom. The judge gave an order so that I can spend more time with my son on a schedule. Coincidentally, outside the courtroom my 3 year old son was waiting for us to finish. I picked him up and my son and I both thanked Massa because it was going to be the first time he was going to be able to spend with me and my side of the family for the weekend. It was an emotional moment for all 3 of us outside that courtroom.
If you feel you have been taken advantage of or feel helpless in your situation and need someone to fight for you, I’d call Josephia Law.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Tenicia c
DON'T GET SCAMMED!
Before I signed on with this firm I talked to Ms Rouse and explained my financial situation. She assured me that I wouldn't have to constantly dump money into my trust (which was a lie). After giving them 10k with no results, they droped me because I couldn't afford to give them $2500 for an upcoming court date. I went with another lawyer who handled my case for $1500 with excellent results. When my new lawyer reviewed what was previously done, he found several documents were filed incorrectly and I was charged each time they had to resubmit them. Mass King is a joke! She showed up to a virtual hearing looking very unkept (with 6 month old box braids). I was embarrassed. There were several reviews about how this firm takes people money and literally drop them right before court. I wonder why you can't see them anymore......
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02 Sep, 2024 by Alisha edwards
I can only respond to how fast they responded back with me and that was excellent
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20 Sep, 2024 by Maxsuper 57
I haired Mr Voss to help me with resolving my child custody issues with my ex husband, who had been dragging me in to court for 10years. It wasn’t until Mr. Voss got involved that I was finally able to conclude my case , resulting in a ruling 100% in my favor. I am beyond satisfied with the results and Mr. Vos was extremely helpful, often responding to my questions on weekends and after hours !
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20 Sep, 2024 by Rachel
I haired Mr Voss to help me with resolving my child custody issues with my ex husband, who had been dragging me in to court for 10years. It wasn’t until Mr. Voss got involved that I was finally able to conclude my case , resulting in a ruling 100% in my favor. I am beyond satisfied with the results and Mr. Vos was extremely helpful, often responding to my questions on weekends and after hours !
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18 Apr, 2024 by Helen diamond
Mr. Ron Voss is fantastic!
He is professional, kind, and reliable.
From a 1-10 stars; I’d give him 12 stars!
I recommend him without reservation!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Amber
This is going to be long, but if you are considering Mike as your attorney, it is everything you need to hear.
I will forever praise Mike Mastracci. Not only because of his ability as an attorney, but because he is an all-around amazing person. Let me explain....
I stumbled across Mike on Google 16 months ago. I am from Anne Arundel County, but I needed to find an attorney who could represent me in a (very) complicated custody matter in Worcester County. I had other consultations but once I spoke with Mike, I was no longer interested in using anyone else. Not only is he extremely knowledgeable about the law, but his calm demeanor and laid-back personality immediately puts you at ease.
During my case, I learned that Mike has a unique ability to adapt to situations quickly and under stress. He has a very friendly demeanor that allows him to put others at ease while he works his magic, but do not let that fool you because when he needs to come out swinging, he is not afraid to.
My custody case was a unique one, but that didn't discourage Mike. Others I had spoken with thought the outcome I was seeking was impossible. Mike did not. From the very beginning, Mike believed in what I wanted and even though he made sure I had realistic short-term expectations, he stayed in the fight and was able to obtain an even better outcome than I had originally expected... one that ensured I can always prioritize my daughter's best interest. I truly believe that hiring Mike was the key factor in the success of my case.
I will also add that Mike and I were presented with a situation where I was able to see his integrity shine through. In a situation where many other attorneys would have gone back on their word, Mike did not. I won’t speak to the specifics of the situation, but even after I explained to him that I understood if he needed to go back on it, he refused to. His word meant more than anything, including money.
As a legal assistant, I am certain that Mike is true gem in the legal world. I will be forever grateful that our paths crossed and he believed in what I was asking for, against all odds
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08 Dec, 2024 by Troy turnipseed
They r the best 👌
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05 Dec, 2024 by Artist evans
This man represented me in 2015 and did an awesome job. He kept his promise and kept me from going to jail. Mr Rodney, I’m forever grateful for you and your service.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Anthony okoko
"I want to express my deepest gratitude to Jeremy Elderidge for his exceptional representation in my recent case. I was facing a charge of driving on a suspended license, but Jeremy's thorough preparation, keen legal insights, and persuasive arguments in court led to a not guilty verdict. His dedication, responsiveness, and compassion throughout the process made a difficult situation much more manageable. I wholeheartedly recommend Jeremy to anyone seeking top-notch legal representation."
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05 Nov, 2024 by Derrick evans
I’m so glad I chose Josephia Law. I’ve been in divorce proceedings for over a year now. And every step of the way the people at Josephia Law have been prompt, professional, compassionate, and knowledgeable. The attorney on my case is Massa Massaquoi-King. I’m lucky to have her on my case. She is very knowledgeable and experienced. She’s also very attentive, I don’t have to explain things more than once and she will let me know the best way we should proceed.
Not only is she great at her job, she really cares. Up until recently, my wife was not allowing me to take my son to see my family without her. Recently at the merits hearing for my divorce case, Massa displayed her knowledge and experience in that courtroom. The judge gave an order so that I can spend more time with my son on a schedule. Coincidentally, outside the courtroom my 3 year old son was waiting for us to finish. I picked him up and my son and I both thanked Massa because it was going to be the first time he was going to be able to spend with me and my side of the family for the weekend. It was an emotional moment for all 3 of us outside that courtroom.
If you feel you have been taken advantage of or feel helpless in your situation and need someone to fight for you, I’d call Josephia Law.
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Tenicia c
DON'T GET SCAMMED!
Before I signed on with this firm I talked to Ms Rouse and explained my financial situation. She assured me that I wouldn't have to constantly dump money into my trust (which was a lie). After giving them 10k with no results, they droped me because I couldn't afford to give them $2500 for an upcoming court date. I went with another lawyer who handled my case for $1500 with excellent results. When my new lawyer reviewed what was previously done, he found several documents were filed incorrectly and I was charged each time they had to resubmit them. Mass King is a joke! She showed up to a virtual hearing looking very unkept (with 6 month old box braids). I was embarrassed. There were several reviews about how this firm takes people money and literally drop them right before court. I wonder why you can't see them anymore......
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02 Sep, 2024 by Alisha edwards
I can only respond to how fast they responded back with me and that was excellent
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30 May, 2024 by Areen al.ghalaini
Chirag Patel is an extremely professional and caring lawyer. Contrary to the common belief that law firms just want to take your money, this one is run by people who actually care about you and want to help out. They follow up and very responsive to your inquiries. Highly recommend using their services
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10 Apr, 2024 by Jeany
The Patel Law Group was amazing to work with, my husband and I were mostly assisted by Viviana, Danny and Nick and they were so helpful, they answered all our questions and always got back to us in a timely manner. Please don’t hesitate to give them a call for all your immigration needs. Excellent job!
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27 Mar, 2024 by Dimpi patel
we had initial disagreement with Mr. Patel's office regarding the scheduling. Mr. Patel personally took the matter in hand, and now we just finished the consultation. If I have any immigration need or case to be filed future, it will be with Mr. Patel. I did lot of internet research about my immigration case and there were so many elements that were confusing, but Mr. Patel has reasonable explanation for how it works. I apologize to Mr. Patel for premature review.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Fire3421
A wonderful experience assisting my wife and I will preparing our wills. Definingly would recommend.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Lauren jolin
Thank you Adam Davey for being my voice when no one listened and standing up for what was right. This was a very emotional event in my life and it was handled with such respect. Excellent communication and a fair outcome. Appreciate all you do.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Joseph davis
An exceptional experience dealing with this law firm. Our Attorney Jacob Dorfman is an exceptional professional and was quite helpful.
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15 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I have hired Ms. Mollie Caplis to handle both business and personal legal issues. Ms. Caplis has always provided guidance that has helped resolve the issue while also limiting the cost. I count Ms. Caplis as a trusted advisor and give her my highest recommendation.
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19 May, 2017 by Kim
Mollie Caplis is an excellent attorney. She represented me in a child custody case, and I was very pleased with the outcome. Child custody is not easy to deal with or go through, and I'm very glad to have had her knowledge and expertise.
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15 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Mrs. Caplis has handled both personal and business cases for me. All cases have been handled with the highest level of professional care and execution.
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24 Jan, 2025 by The sweetest peach
Five star service! My settlement has been finalized and I am a satisfied client once again!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Sarah whitty
They had to work on my case for over a year but kept me updated the whole time and got it done! Great communication!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Kirsy martinez
They have the best lawyers in MD always looking for the best solution and looking out for every client and I had always found the help when I need it so thanks Hyatt & Goldbloom.
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30 May, 2024 by Areen al.ghalaini
Chirag Patel is an extremely professional and caring lawyer. Contrary to the common belief that law firms just want to take your money, this one is run by people who actually care about you and want to help out. They follow up and very responsive to your inquiries. Highly recommend using their services
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10 Apr, 2024 by Jeany
The Patel Law Group was amazing to work with, my husband and I were mostly assisted by Viviana, Danny and Nick and they were so helpful, they answered all our questions and always got back to us in a timely manner. Please don’t hesitate to give them a call for all your immigration needs. Excellent job!
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27 Mar, 2024 by Dimpi patel
we had initial disagreement with Mr. Patel's office regarding the scheduling. Mr. Patel personally took the matter in hand, and now we just finished the consultation. If I have any immigration need or case to be filed future, it will be with Mr. Patel. I did lot of internet research about my immigration case and there were so many elements that were confusing, but Mr. Patel has reasonable explanation for how it works. I apologize to Mr. Patel for premature review.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Margaret flores
My experience with Justin Lerche, Esq., over the last 2 ½ years has been outstanding. I came to Ashcraft & Gerel LLP, seeking a personal injury attorney with experience in these cases. I was impressed with Justin’s biography on the firm’s website. From the initial call with him, I felt confident in his talents to represent me after a car accident I endured on January 14, 2022, to the final settlement on December 5, 2024, achieving a favorable outcome.
Throughout this exhaustive and stressful time, Justin handled my case with utmost professionalism, attention to detail, care, and effective communication, making a world of difference to me. His expertise and knowledge of personal injury law are to be commended. He always made me feel I was in great hands, reassuring me that everything would be okay from day one. He promptly answered all my questions on the case and offered solace to the emotional tears I experienced during our calls.
I highly recommend Justin at Ashcraft & Gerel LLP to anyone seeking exceptional legal services and results in personal injury cases. I’m profoundly grateful and cannot thank Justin enough for his support, services, and personal injury expertise, which made this overwhelming process bearable. Laura Harmon, his Paralegal, was also courteous and prompt in her responses. Thank you both!
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08 Dec, 2024 by Sean foddrell
Ashcraft & Gerel, LLP recently assisted me after I was injured in a car accident. Mr.Lerche and Ms. Rizzo were extremely professional and communicative throughout the entire process. I appreciate their support and highly recommend their services.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Carolyn randel
Justin and Kable are very professional and did their best in getting my case resolved as well as seeing that I received the best offer. I highly recommend Ashcraft and Gerel.
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20 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
I have and will continue to recommend Jen. She kept me in line during my divorce and kept me from making decisions I would regret.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Peter faltin
Mrs. Hall has been the most professional, knowledgeable attorney that I have ever worked with. She completely understood what my main focus was and has helped me navigate the entire legal process. I highly recommend her services.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Juan carlos hernandez
22 Oct, 2023 by M shawn wright
I would highly recommend this law firm to all my friends and family. Not only did Mrs Patricia Hall handle all my legal needs, but she also exalted great patience and professionalism. She simplified everything in layman's term so that I could understand. I am extremely appreciative and grateful for the service that she and her associates provided.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Fire3421
A wonderful experience assisting my wife and I will preparing our wills. Definingly would recommend.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Lauren jolin
Thank you Adam Davey for being my voice when no one listened and standing up for what was right. This was a very emotional event in my life and it was handled with such respect. Excellent communication and a fair outcome. Appreciate all you do.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Joseph davis
An exceptional experience dealing with this law firm. Our Attorney Jacob Dorfman is an exceptional professional and was quite helpful.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Fire3421
A wonderful experience assisting my wife and I will preparing our wills. Definingly would recommend.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Lauren jolin
Thank you Adam Davey for being my voice when no one listened and standing up for what was right. This was a very emotional event in my life and it was handled with such respect. Excellent communication and a fair outcome. Appreciate all you do.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Joseph davis
An exceptional experience dealing with this law firm. Our Attorney Jacob Dorfman is an exceptional professional and was quite helpful.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Fire3421
A wonderful experience assisting my wife and I will preparing our wills. Definingly would recommend.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Lauren jolin
Thank you Adam Davey for being my voice when no one listened and standing up for what was right. This was a very emotional event in my life and it was handled with such respect. Excellent communication and a fair outcome. Appreciate all you do.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Joseph davis
An exceptional experience dealing with this law firm. Our Attorney Jacob Dorfman is an exceptional professional and was quite helpful.
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17 Mar, 2023 by Made man vaughn
18 Jan, 2022 by Aleah catron
05 Nov, 2020 by Marsha lucas
Luke Woods went above and beyond for my son-I wish we had him at the beginning of his case. We will always use him for an Attorney!
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3.7
6 Reviews
5.0
4 Reviews
17 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
She would call me and leave a message for me than immediately send a letter to me so she could send a bill for both. She didn't give even 24hrs to return her call. She changed me over 30 thousand dollars for a non contested divorce. She is a money hungry lawyer who cares nothing for her client
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26 May, 2022 by Anonymous
She’s not worth a single penny, If you wanna wast your money hire her .
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06 Sep, 2020 by Robert valentine
Richard Winelander has to be the best post conviction attorney in the State of Maryland.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Joy miller
Brad filed for a warrant motion recall when he should not have, just to take my money. I had hire another attorney first and I should’ve stayed with him. My son was falsely accused and he was found innocent from questioning, so the detective told me that I didn’t need an attorney. I told Brad macfee and he acted like he was in shock. If I would not have said anything about a refund he would’ve kept my money. I paid him $1500. Who would allow someone to keep their money for nothing. Not me! He told me that he would give me my $1000 back. He got his secretary or whatever she is working from her home, because he has no office to send me an invoice. Saying that he charged me for my affidavits $300 for an hour. We never talked about that, if we did I would not have agreed to that is what I texted him. He never called me back and he ignore my calls after the day he told me a lie about my money. I called and texted a week later asking about my money and Liz said that she didn’t have my address, but Brad had it. Poor communication on their end. I went to her address to pick up my $825 check. I wouldn’t recommend him to a cat. This is what I text Brad and he just read my messages everytime that I text him. Coward
Why are you trying to rip me off? You told me that you were sending me a check for $1,000. You did the motion like Rodney did and really should not have because you knew that it would not work. I need my money back. Not, $825.00
Brad Why didn’t you tell me that I was being charged for the affidavit statement. I would have never agreed to that. You also made it like the warrant would be recalled, because you sent the affidavits attached. You knew that it wouldn’t work, because Rodney told me that it was denied and you knew that. And turn around and misrepresent the truth and you didn’t disclose an affidavit fee. I should’ve stayed with Rodney. it was all about money.
I never agreed to pay you for an affidavit. You stole my money.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Jerica blanding
Brad was the worst lawyer EVER he stole over $500 and never returned my money he played so many games and never barely called us. Not to mention it was like pulling a persons heart out with your bare hands. That’s how hard it was to get in contact. He has a iPhone so I would see him many times read my messages and keep them on read. I guess it’s no surprise we lost our case. He was the worst ever and I wouldn’t recommend him for not even the simplest case. PLEASE DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY!!!
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06 Aug, 2023 by Trust evans
01 Aug, 2024 by Joy miller
Brad filed for a warrant motion recall when he should not have, just to take my money. I had hire another attorney first and I should’ve stayed with him. My son was falsely accused and he was found innocent from questioning, so the detective told me that I didn’t need an attorney. I told Brad macfee and he acted like he was in shock. If I would not have said anything about a refund he would’ve kept my money. I paid him $1500. Who would allow someone to keep their money for nothing. Not me! He told me that he would give me my $1000 back. He got his secretary or whatever she is working from her home, because he has no office to send me an invoice. Saying that he charged me for my affidavits $300 for an hour. We never talked about that, if we did I would not have agreed to that is what I texted him. He never called me back and he ignore my calls after the day he told me a lie about my money. I called and texted a week later asking about my money and Liz said that she didn’t have my address, but Brad had it. Poor communication on their end. I went to her address to pick up my $825 check. I wouldn’t recommend him to a cat. This is what I text Brad and he just read my messages everytime that I text him. Coward
Why are you trying to rip me off? You told me that you were sending me a check for $1,000. You did the motion like Rodney did and really should not have because you knew that it would not work. I need my money back. Not, $825.00
Brad Why didn’t you tell me that I was being charged for the affidavit statement. I would have never agreed to that. You also made it like the warrant would be recalled, because you sent the affidavits attached. You knew that it wouldn’t work, because Rodney told me that it was denied and you knew that. And turn around and misrepresent the truth and you didn’t disclose an affidavit fee. I should’ve stayed with Rodney. it was all about money.
I never agreed to pay you for an affidavit. You stole my money.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Jerica blanding
Brad was the worst lawyer EVER he stole over $500 and never returned my money he played so many games and never barely called us. Not to mention it was like pulling a persons heart out with your bare hands. That’s how hard it was to get in contact. He has a iPhone so I would see him many times read my messages and keep them on read. I guess it’s no surprise we lost our case. He was the worst ever and I wouldn’t recommend him for not even the simplest case. PLEASE DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY!!!
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06 Aug, 2023 by Trust evans
30 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Baumohl, "assisted" me in my divorce case. My divorce should have been a simple case since my ex-wife, and I did not have assets to distribute. He milked me for money when this type of situation could have been handled for cheap. I paid $5,000 for his services and had to pay an extra $2,000 when the escrow ran out. Again, for a case simple and not complex. Additionally, when creating the settlement agreement, he put the wording vague and ambiguous to have me contact him in regards to the agreement. Doing this requires me to call/ email him for clarification. In return, I get billed for correspondences. He is brilliant....so brilliant; he knows ways to get money from you. From what I can determine, Mr. Baumohl is more worried about his bank account than the client. He will prolong a case to milk more money out of you. If I knew what I know now, I would have avoided this attorney from the beginning. Please, by all means, avoid using this attorney. Unless you like to spend your money with minimal results.
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07 Jul, 2018 by Steve
Represented me in a divorce case several years ago. Despite meeting with me three times for a total of six hours AND billing me another three hours for "preparation," he fumbled extensively in the courtroom. Asked me just before hearing to write him a sheet of notes of my issues. Didn't present properly labeled exhibits. Couldn't remember which questions to ask me or my ex-wife while on the stand. A horrible attorney whose focus is billing and receiving payment for inept services.
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24 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Did not respond to discovery requests in my case, gave other side extension without informing me and did not act in my best interests. When awarded funds, had attorney from other side send funds to him even though was no longer representing me.
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FAQs
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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.
