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Lawrence Forsythe Johnson, experienced Child Custody, Entertainment attorney in Birmingham, AL with 1 reviews
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35,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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06 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired him for a child custody case . He was very detailed oriented even on short notice . Very polite. He always asked “what do you want to do” and “ stated here are my recommendations . He did not force me to do anything I did not agree with . Very refreshing to have an attorney working for the parent and only for the parent !
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Pamela Chandler Massey, experienced Child Custody, Estate Planning attorney in Birmingham, AL with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,00
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5.0/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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21 Sep, 2023 by Cpc jr
EXCELLENT, PROFESSIONAL, EXTREMELY CAPABLE ATTORNEY. I can't say enough good things about Mr. Terrell. He handled a complex multi-faceted, professional association ERISA-disability-related case that I was involved in bringing in other capable attorneys to help as needed. Great personal demeanor and helps clients understand complex issues in a straightforward professional manner. Highly recommended. CPC Jr MD MBA
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Jacquelyn Grant Jones, experienced Adoption, Bankruptcy attorney in Birmingham, AL with 31 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,73
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4.5/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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4.5
30 Reviews
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08 Jul, 2024 by Vaneishia carpenter
Awesome bunch of people who know their craft! If you need a lawyer definitely call and find out if Steve can help he's a great person who does all he can to get the job done.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Teaisha dalis
Please read reviews before letting attorneys represent you. Mr. Earle handled our situation very unprofessional by not responding, returning phone call, no updates on the case, and not answering text messages. I would not recommend this attorney.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jenero sigler
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Beth Clayton, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 38 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,43
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4.6/5
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4.6
38 Reviews
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08 Feb, 2024 by Joy bourgie
Amazing Attorney!!! Very knowledgeable, empathetic, compassionate and fair.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Bryan
I wouldn't recommend this attorney; he is the worst attorney ever.
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11 Aug, 2023 by Heather leonard
Leslie is thorough and thoughtful in how she represents her clients.
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Halley Harris, experienced Car Accident, Child Custody attorney in Birmingham, AL with 53 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,28
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4.5/5
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5.0
6 Reviews
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4.1
47 Reviews
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22 Apr, 2024 by Prince homebuilders inc
Very helpful.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Autumn wood
communication
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24 Jan, 2024 by Dan florcyk
My response would be similar to the other positive responses I've read in Adam's review section. He was thoughtful, honest and upfront with the reality of my case and I never doubted a word he told me. In the past I've had very different experiences dealing with attorneys, Adam has helped adjust my sights relative to the legal profession. Thanks Adam
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Richelle Hendrix Gossman, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 55 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,13
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4.5/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
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4.0
52 Reviews
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23 Feb, 2024 by W. steven barefoot
Most compassionate and straightforward attorney I have ever met or hired. She's extremely truthful and always has the clients best interest in mind. If you want the truth and sincere legal advise, hire Gossman. If you want to be milked by continuances, go somewhere else. Listen to Gossman. She knows the law and all the judges that she practices under, know her to be truthful and a straight shooter. My case was extremely complicated and she finalized it well above my expectations.
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30 Aug, 2023 by Chelsea mason
My husband and I were WILDLY disappointed in the “representation” provided to us. Not only did she not fight on our behalf she pretty much gave the other side what they wanted and completely ignored our wants and concerns for the case. She colluded with GAL. And in the end put our child in the greatest danger he has literally ever been in. Now we’re having to spend more money on a more competent lawyer to actually remove the parental rights as we initially ask. And now we’re out thousands of dollars 😒
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09 Aug, 2023 by Lauren jennifer
I recently had the misfortune of engaging the services of Gossman Law Firm, and I must say that it was a complete disaster from start to finish. The level of incompetence and unprofessionalism displayed by this firm was beyond anything I could have imagined.
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Sandra Koslin Remington, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Birmingham, AL with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,09
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
4.0
4 Reviews
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5.0
2 Reviews
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03 Aug, 2022 by Jennifer smith
Jennifer Rose has been a life long friend of mine. Her work ethic, honesty, and integrity are all outstanding. If you are in need of an Attorney in the Anniston area, consider the Rose Law Firm.
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07 Jan, 2021 by Mrs. t
Very pleased with the level of representation Sandra provided throughout my case. She responded quickly and was sympathetic throughout the process. I appreciate all the advice that she gave to me.
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16 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Remington has been an incredibly compassionate and thorough lawyer. She has helped navigate this truly heartbreaking time, never acting annoyed or frustrated with my ignorance or obviously emotional state.
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Richard Carl Perry Jr., experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 73 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
33,06
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
3.3
14 Reviews
Google Maps
4.7
59 Reviews
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01 Oct, 2024 by Stephanie jacobi
Richard Perry handled my son's custody case quick and efficiently. He got everything we wanted and needed for my granddaughter and son. Thank you Perry!!!
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07 Sep, 2024 by Brandon warren
I want to thank Maggi Eades, and the lawyer she worked with, Mr. Richard Perry. My divorce went as smooth as possible, and wasn't expensive at all. Maggi was extremely professional, and all correspondence between her, my lawyer, and myself was extremely quick, and full of all information I needed or had questions about. I would recommend this firm to anyone with any legal issues they offer to help with. I cannot thank them enough. They went above and beyond to help me, even though I'm all the way in Poland right now. I'm glad I trusted this team of professionals.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Cheyenne schefke
Thank you to the team here that helped me handle my situation especially Maggi. I truly appreciate everything that you guys have done for me. You all made the process easier for me to manage during a stressful time and I couldn't be happier.
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Gerald Gregory White, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 41 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,58
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.5
40 Reviews
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24 Jan, 2025 by Jill borch
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23 Jan, 2025 by Steven brogdon
They have been really helpful working with me on my Chapter 13. The service is excellent from the staff.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Nay
I have spent a lot of money over several years trying to get a divorce. Attorney Greg White made the process super easy and convenient. He answered all of my questions honestly, and returned all of my phone calls very quickly. Even the secretary was super nice and helpful. The whole experience was A1. I hope I never have to go through this process again. But if I do, I will definitely be using Attorney Greg White again.
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Mavanee Routt Bear, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Birmingham, AL with 23 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,20
star star star star star
4.5/5
Google Maps
4.5
23 Reviews
star star star star star
23 Dec, 2024 by Lauren laski
As a local North AL real estate agent, we regularly put our trust in Connie & Brandon at BHM. They work quickly, efficiently, and thoroughly on all of our investment transactions. I highly recommend them to anybody who is looking for a well vetted closing attorney in the investment side of real estate.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Cody short
Brandon was recommended to me and we had an initial call. However, I never heard back and he didn't return calls.
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21 Jan, 2024 by Marnesha gilchrist
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Sera Elizabeth Harrison, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Birmingham, AL with 5 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,71
star star star star star
4.4/5
Avvo
4.4
5 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
I was tremendously unsatisfied with her handling of my case, and wound up taking my file to another lawyer. My new lawyer effectively started the entire process over and was very diplomatic about it, but ultimately told me that while most lawyers are not inclined to speak ill of other lawyers, in this case he considered her very poorly organized, emotional, and "tunnel-visioned". I will say that she seems to be very friendly with the local judges but even the judge was unimpressed by the end of the hearing. I would not risk my kids working with her.
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03 Feb, 2019 by Josh
Sera is great. She is completely involved, invested, and aggressive in working for you. Sera knows what needs to happen and how to make that reality. Nothing is guaranteed, but she’ll move mountains to increase your odds to the max to achieve that goal. No one wants to need an attorney, but if you do, you want to be as comfortable and confident as possible. Sera is doing that for me in a very high pressure and tense situation. Looking back, I doubt that I would have felt that way hiring anybody else. She’s a legal warrior and will take personal interest in her cases. I’m very thankful to have her on my side.
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25 Jan, 2019 by Barry
I hired Sera to help me get my state tax money from Alabama. My company did not do my taxes correct so I wasn't able to get my tax refund. I tried to do it on my own, but they wouldn't even talk to me on the phone. She was able to handle everything for me and get me paid the money I was owed!
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Deborah A. Gregory, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 5 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,32
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Jul, 2023 by Kimberly
Ms Gregory is the Best of the Best. She will win your case with ease. She knows away around the law and is honest and compassionate.
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12 Jun, 2023 by Jessica
I waited 3 and a half months and she didn't even contact me once after stating the complaint would take about 2 weeks. I paid $300 for a consultation and that was the ONLY time Deb ever spoke to me. They took almost $400 of my retainer despite the only contact from their office being a request to reproduce original documents that I hand delivered the week before that they lost. Never a detailed bill, invoice, draft, email - nothing. If your child is important to you, do not hire Deborah Gregory with Crittenden Partners. Also, they never gave my original paperwork back literally losing evidence in my case.
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13 Mar, 2020 by Greg battles
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Bradley James Latta, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 20 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
27,33
star star star star star
4.0/5
Avvo
3.7
14 Reviews
Google Maps
4.3
6 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Now that my divorce and custody hearing are over I am changing my review for this worthless Lawyer. About one month before it was time to go to court after dragging out for almost a year he bailed out on me because I sent him too many emails. I would not have had to send 985 emails had he answered even 20 of those. Fortunately, my ex-husband and I settled without him and I am sure that I got more than I would have. Had he stayed with me. Do not be fooled by the fact that he is a member of a Christian lawyers society, because he does not function as a Christian. Basically all of the emails that he answered for the most part were ones where I offered to send more money and that is what he is all about . The final month of my case which was the most important I was instructed by him to no longer send him emails but to filter them through his assistant Brandy. I sent her five emails within 20 days and got no reply from her either. Then I got a message from him, saying that he was withdrawing from my case. I paid him over $6000 for nothing. Always beware of a lawyer who bites his fingernails to the quick and bounces his leg up and down repeatedly. He had the audacity to say that I had mental problems and I believe the two set above things prove that he also has mental problems , just beware. I paid him for subpoenas that were never done and for many other things that were never accomplished. He says he is overworked, but I say he is lazy and money hungry.
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24 Oct, 2022 by Shannon baseman
Mr. Joey Morris is a fantastic attorney. He is thorough, intelligent, easy going and thoughtful. Representing me in a wrongful death case, I found him to be immensely compassionate, understanding and kind. He is a true fighter and I would highly recommend him!
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10 Jul, 2021 by Wesley herrington
Mr. Cary, who represents me, is a great lawyer. He is a very knowledgeable man who goes to bat for his clients. There have been numerous occasions where he has found discrepancies involving my finances and I am grateful for that. He is a lawyer of integrity and he puts his clients first. I would highly recommend him.
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Mary Kay Laumer, experienced Adoption, Car Accident attorney in Birmingham, AL with 8 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
20,48
star star star star star
3.9/5
Google Maps
3.9
8 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Apr, 2024 by Lisa
I filed for a divorce with her and the whole process was horrible. My ex husband have a protection order out and it was never submitted with my divorce. Child support order was never submitted to clerk office so I don't get child support. The way divorce was wrote up no one can help but her and she refuse to help. Clerk office told me to contact her about enforcing divorce and she said she's not doing anything else to help with my case. I paid for services and I was willing to pay more if needed but no help. The language in my divorce is so confusing to the point that no one else wants to help. I feel like it was only done to hurry up the process. Don't recommend to young mothers with children.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Amy beard
Ms. Abele helped me so much! Her calm demeanor & no-nonsense attitude put me at ease & reassured me that everything was gonna be ok. Thankful every day for the way she guided me & worked with me.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Andrea davison cole
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AshLeigh Meyer Dunham, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Birmingham, AL with 6 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,56
star star star star star
3.7/5
Avvo
3.7
6 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
I called this woman 3 months in a roll about my daughter's case she have yet to respond and then had court she didn't even email, write, or phone me letting me know we're having court and what time to be on the Zoom Call! It's sad and very disrespectful...
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22 May, 2023 by Mark
AshLeigh Dunham is a very poor family law attorney. She's always unprepared and lost in a hearing in which my ex-wife was not represented by an attorney. She tended to blame unfavorable rulings on me even though she was the attorney. She constantly asked for more and more money despite losing just about every hearing. She was outclassed by opposing counsel when my ex-wife retained him. She doesn't know how to litigate and should not be the attorney you use in a high conflict divorce.
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21 Mar, 2020 by Maggie
We hired AshLeigh and her team to assist in our efforts to create a living will as well as to obtain the pre and post birth orders for our son who was recently delivered via surrogacy. AshLeigh is passionate about family law and worked diligently to get these tasks complete without missing any details. Our son was born during the national pandemic announcement on a Friday. Despite the courts having shut down early, she and her team worked tirelessly to ensure a timely execution of our post birth order. This meant we were able to have the correct documentation for the arrangement of his birth certificate so we could be discharged over the weekend. It’s hard to find such level of dedication!!
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Jennifer Kathryn Wales, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,25
star star star star star
3.0/5
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3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
26 May, 2023 by Rosalie d
Took our retainer money then quit two weeks before the scheduled hearing, leaving us without representation. Cannot trust them.
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02 Feb, 2023 by Julie etherton
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Frederick Alexander Erben, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,25
star star star star star
3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
26 May, 2023 by Rosalie d
Took our retainer money then quit two weeks before the scheduled hearing, leaving us without representation. Cannot trust them.
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02 Feb, 2023 by Julie etherton
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Karen Schwartz McClure, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,17
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Nov, 2015 by Melanie
This attorney completed my divorce filing in 2010. I did not receive vital information that would have affected how I handled a credit card on the divorce fiiling. That oversight ultimately left me vulnerable to the future spending of my ex husband. When approached for assistance, she was unresponsive and detached. I was not, at the minimum, advised to seek a settlement that followed state guidelines. I lost tens of thousands of dollars in possible child support over the last 5 years. I was not advised to have the money directly taken from his check. When he stopped paying, it was extremely costly to go after that money. I am in the process of re-doing the divorce, costing me thousands more dollars. I would strongly recommend against hiring her for any legal representation.
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Jesilyn Faith Davis, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Birmingham, AL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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George Richard Fernambucq, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Charles Hardy Dunn, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 0 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Stephanie Lanier Weems, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Margaret Frances Jameson, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Birmingham, AL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Lauren Glass Spradling, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Birmingham, AL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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David Lamar Scott, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Birmingham, AL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Anna Leslie Traylor, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Birmingham, AL with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Kimberly Brooke Massey, experienced Business, Child Custody attorney in Birmingham, AL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Derry Olive Wilcox, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Birmingham, AL with 0 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Inquire about the expected timeline from filing the petition to reaching an agreement or going to trial.
  5. Will you personally handle my case?
    Ensure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court.
  6. 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.

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