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01 Aug, 2023 by Ryan frimel
I had a great experience with Matt and Kim. They were very efficient and thorough in explaining complex legal agreements and their practical implications. Matt was very responsive, practical, and knowledgeable. I’d certainly use them again and strongly recommend them for any future legal work. Thanks guys!
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13 Mar, 2023 by Cheryl westbrook
Kim Coleman is a very thorough and competent attorney who helped me navigate through a very difficult time in my life. She was very level-headed and her legal services were both reasonable and professional.
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22 Oct, 2021 by Binny joshi
01 Aug, 2023 by Ryan frimel
I had a great experience with Matt and Kim. They were very efficient and thorough in explaining complex legal agreements and their practical implications. Matt was very responsive, practical, and knowledgeable. I’d certainly use them again and strongly recommend them for any future legal work. Thanks guys!
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13 Mar, 2023 by Cheryl westbrook
Kim Coleman is a very thorough and competent attorney who helped me navigate through a very difficult time in my life. She was very level-headed and her legal services were both reasonable and professional.
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22 Oct, 2021 by Binny joshi
16 Sep, 2024 by Ricky politte
This lawyer handles really big accident cases in St Louis. He is a lawyer, accountant and has his masters in tax so he gets the injury cases for individuals that can never go back to work or individuals own a business and cannot run it due to injury. He specializes in valuations of massive loss. Thank goodness a firm like this exists.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Kasandra harmon
You are a great lawyer! Thank you.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Brandon whittley
Asked a trauma surgeon who operates on car accident victims who are the best injury lawyers that have taken his deposition. He said “by far” it was Mr Hoffmann. Interviewed several attorneys and this was a correct assessment. In a league of his own!
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16 Sep, 2024 by Ricky politte
This lawyer handles really big accident cases in St Louis. He is a lawyer, accountant and has his masters in tax so he gets the injury cases for individuals that can never go back to work or individuals own a business and cannot run it due to injury. He specializes in valuations of massive loss. Thank goodness a firm like this exists.
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10 Sep, 2024 by Kasandra harmon
You are a great lawyer! Thank you.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Brandon whittley
Asked a trauma surgeon who operates on car accident victims who are the best injury lawyers that have taken his deposition. He said “by far” it was Mr Hoffmann. Interviewed several attorneys and this was a correct assessment. In a league of his own!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Seth smith
I have always been a civic minded, very hard working and law abiding citizen, until my family ran into some financial issues because of the pandemic and inflation. We were sued by the First National Bank of Omaha because of late payments on a credit card, with little recourse but to find an attorney to help us. Mind you, this was almost ALL medical debt that had to be put on a credit card. Kris, and all his staff, were so kind, personable and helpful. These people believe in what they are doing and finding people a good settlement at a difficult and low period of life. Many kudos!!
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02 Sep, 2024 by Bethany
Ben is a compassionate and understanding attorney. Ben has stuck by my side through it all. A high conflict custody mess. He will help you navigate through sticky situations. Just know he’s truly there for you, like an attorney should be.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Neil burnett
Ben was really knowledgeable and sympathetic towards a dad in a tight situation and helped me navigate through a difficult custody battle. I would recommend him for anyone especially fathers that need legal help involving your children !!!
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02 Sep, 2024 by Bethany
Ben is a compassionate and understanding attorney. Ben has stuck by my side through it all. A high conflict custody mess. He will help you navigate through sticky situations. Just know he’s truly there for you, like an attorney should be.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Neil burnett
Ben was really knowledgeable and sympathetic towards a dad in a tight situation and helped me navigate through a difficult custody battle. I would recommend him for anyone especially fathers that need legal help involving your children !!!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Zully kuster
Ben is very cool
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16 Jan, 2024 by John b
10 Aug, 2023 by Sarah duncan
We hired Tony for someone who was in desperate need for some great defense..that is what Tony delivered.
Aside from that, he’s just really a great down to earth guy! He made me comfortable from our first phone call. He’s a straight shooter and he will tell you how it is! I appreciated his transparency and the fact that he’s just really easy to work with. Down to earth and relatable! Would hire again!
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22 Dec, 2022 by Jack mehuff plz bitc (too quick sorry)
he's very good informative and keeps you up-to-date on your case and mr. mellencamp is FrankBoyer and I love you
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25 Jun, 2024 by Stanford coleman
19 Jun, 2024 by Phyllis robsham
Keane Law did a great job handling my legal matter. The team is very dedicated and knowledgeable in what they do while showing compassion for the client. The timeliness in communication was great appreciated ! I would highly recommend
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03 Jun, 2024 by M jeffery
Not only is the Keane Law team very dedicated and knowledgeable in what they do, but they are also very courteous and caring. They are very good at reaching out and keeping their clients informed. They did a great job in taking care of my son and I am at ease knowing that we have such a great team looking out for us in the next case. I Highly recommend Keane Law LLC.
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14 Sep, 2024 by Stephen allmond
Mr. Smith was very helpful and knowledgeable. I recommend Mr. Smith to anyone.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Bryan krueger
I have known Rachna for years, working with her on multiple occasions when she was with the Jane Doe Advocacy Center. Therefore, when I decided to get a divorce, it was a no-brainer to go to this acquaintance I had known for years. At first, my experience with The Lien Law Firm was excellent. You can make payments in installments, but they will start the proceedings once everything is collected. When I was able to get an in-person visit, everything went well.
Since 10/23/2022, I have been diligently pursuing my divorce proceedings.
Unfortunately, she was unavailable to take my call almost every time I called the office. I would leave a message for a callback, which I rarely received on multiple occasions. There were a couple of phone appointments that she missed, and I never received a callback.
The client portal is a joke because I have sent messages to Mrs. Lien, the office staff, or both and never received a response.
It has taken a little longer because initially, I had a paternity test involved in my divorce proceedings, and they would need to try and serve her. This was difficult because she was not living in the same state as I, and I did not have an exact address for her.
Eventually, divorce paperwork was completed in June 2023—multiple attempts to contact afterward without responses.
On October 24, 2023, I had a phone appointment, and she said she could not find my wife to serve her. I provided updated info that I was able to find, and she said I could hire a PI in Florida, which could cost me a couple thousand dollars more. She also provided me with the information of three aggressive lawyers if I still wanted to try to track her down.
On January 25, 2024, I went to the courthouse on other business. While there, I checked out the status of my case, and I was informed that it was on the dismissal pile. I made a follow-up appointment in February, which she missed.
I eventually was able to get an in-person appointment on June 14, 2024, and decided to forgo the paternity test and finish the divorce. I had to refile the paperwork because it was dismissed in January. She said it was left on the dismissal pile on purpose to see if my wife would come out of the woodwork and be caught and served.
It is now September 12, 2024, and multiple attempts to contact her since the June meeting have failed. I am still in limbo on whether she has resubmitted my divorce paperwork or not.
This has been an extremely frustrating and draining experience. Another reason not to get married.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Maria marino
Absolutely the best lawyer ever !
I have had a few different lawyers through child custody and modification cases and he is by far the best I’ve ever had super quick to communicate with you gets the job done doesn’t dawdle very reasonably priced very honest and just a good person in general he is not one of those money, hungry lawyers he actually cares ! You won’t ever regret hiring him !
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10 Oct, 2024 by Cody thomas
Joe was available, targeted, and effective.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Lazarus nunley (bklaz)
Dan is an excellent attorney. He took my case, was honest with me my situation and the possibilities. He's also a very personal man they shows a genuine interest me, not only as client but also as a person. Likewise, the office staff are very professional and courteous. Dan Juengel should be your first round professional Attorney pick.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Sandra phillips
Joe Flees was absolutely amazing! He took the time to explain everything thoroughly and was always available to answer my questions. His dedication and hard work were evident throughout the entire process. I couldn't be happier. Highly recommend!
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05 Aug, 2019 by Sk
It was just last Friday that she sent me an email asking me to make a payment so that she can prepare for a trial. so I made the payment Friday night. It's Monday today that she sent me another email. I thought it was a thank-you note for my payment. No. It was about that she is withdrawing from my case and suggesting me to hire a lawyer who shares her office and her paralegal. In the email, she was literally trashing my case and placing all the blame on me. I have all the proof against the points she was trying to make in her email. and Most importantly, there was no change in term of the situation between before and after she entered in my case. I had explained to her everything about my case during the initial consultation. i also personally delivered a summary of my case and about two thousands of supporting documents to her office. In addition, I was diligently and promptly corresponding with her and her paralegal. They charged me $1,500 for the frequent correspondence (for just one month). and Now she's complaining there has been problem in terms of communication.
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25 May, 2019 by Tom
Leigh did a very good job on my domestic matter. She knew the law well and was effective in dealing with the opposing counsel.
I enthusiastically recommend her to others with similar issues.
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25 May, 2016 by Phillip
I have consulted Leigh Joy many times for her expertise on family law issues and appellate work. I retained Leigh Joy to write an appellate brief on behalf of my client. She was thorough, recognized the issues and her brief was well written and timely. I have also referred clients to her and recommended to the court that she be appointed to arbitrate specific issues in a family law matter. She was appointed and timely conducted the Arbitration and issued a well reasoned and accepted Decision. I can, without hesitation, recommend Ms. Carson for your legal problems in Family law or appellate work.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Stacey morris
What age joke!!!!! Julie k Casalone which is a attorney for bankruptcy! Tried going for a collection off a credit company bought it and tried charging 1554.00 dollars for a 794.00 charge, somehow changed my courtdate so I wasn't present to represent myself and gave me false information from the first trial.. wasted my time seeking debt solution when it was too late!!!! A sorry excuse, and a waste of air for people like this to thank they are above people, buying people debt and making money off of them!!!!! Total scum
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21 Sep, 2024 by Four eagles
Have always received valuable advice and quality service from this firm.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Joshua klemp
I couldn't be more grateful to Doug and his firm for the help they gave me. Roundabout 2 years ago now, I was facing a pretty scary legal situation that dropped on me out of the blue, and was lucky enough to be introduced to Doug through a mutual friend. I'd never been in any kind of legal trouble, and I was completely freaked out and totally lost. He called right away, patiently explained the plan, was attentive, confident, trustworthy and just knew exactly what to do. I can't tell you how much better I felt just knowing that he was on my side. In the blink of an eye, he got the case against me dropped. Look, if you're in any kind of a legal bind, I honestly can't think of a better guy to have in your corner. Hire this man right now. He will help you. I promise.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Lannie sing
There is not enough words to describe how incredible Scott and Issac are. These men fought and won victory over my dad setting him free on all counts. Issac and Scott gave out their personal cell phones and were always just a text or phone call away. They answered all of our questions right away, as our family had never been through any court related things. We always knew what to expect out of each court day, and never left in the dark. Scott and Issac treated my family and dad with upmost respect. We are so incredibly thankful for them and proving my father’s innocence.
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02 Nov, 2024 by Ryan zubrisky
Scott and Allie are the absolute BEST attorneys. I was confident that I was in good hands when Scott recommended Allie take over my case. Allie was very professional, extremely knowledgable, approachable, and always responded n a timely manner. Allie handled my case flawlessly and I highly recommend her!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Charles taylor
3.0
4 Reviews
4.5
17 Reviews
09 Jul, 2023 by Connie
Unfortunately Ellie is not incorrect in her opinion of Ms. Klapp. I would reiterate her comments on Nikki’s lack of interest and practical assistance in our case plus note that her ineptitude led to 2 kids being hospitalized with serious injuries. Nikki had been warned that their father had an extensive history of drug and alcohol abuse as well as mental illness diagnoses, and that he was often irresponsible with them. She did nothing but make excuses and deny any responsibility especially hers. She is not detail oriented and often misses the specific nuances of her cases like safety completely.
The schedule she created for us was also difficult and impractical for our kids. She refused to acknowledge or rectify any poor planning on her part that was due to her lack of attention and inexperience. She mixed up their schedules several times then would go MIA. Her priorities were extremely poor at that time, and other authorities stated the same. They were involved when Nikki left the country without finalizing our schedule, and after my ex refused to return my son’s Codeine pills. She was literally nowhere to be found. Nikki’s level of inaction actually caused a lot more harm than good, but she covered so much a at county she got away with it.
Nikki then helped drag the case out another year after my ex dropped all of his motions l except for coparenting. I had been told by KITM that I didn’t have to coparent with someone that abusive, but was hounded about talking to my teenagers about the case. It was usually to ask if they’d ever heard from Nikki! I got contempt while the man who lied to the court for child support got nothing but a pat on the back and $870 in savings for a new car. I was also forced to pay $250 an hour unnecessarily to argue for things like a laptop that was free. Nikki wanted to know if I had gotten him a Christmas present as if that’s due diligence, and I told her no those aren’t for people who sue me. My ex husband who broke into my car, was passed out with his Secretary for a decade and fell down drunk at our kid’s school didn’t even get me a card for my birthday when we were married, but Nikki thought he deserved a present. I had forfeited my alimony & maintenance so my daughter could get a new car that year. I don’t even have one because I got stuck with paying her legal bills for no reason. Furthermore, my ex was illegally taking my income tax refunds for himself with her permission! I also had thousands of dollars of expenses that he refused to share and she knew it. She knew all of these details and then some, yet was so out of touch with reality and self absorbed with her own wedding she was incapable of providing any credible counsel to our family whatsoever. Her attorney colleagues in Family Law have shared this same observation with me about her as well. She should have been be reprimanded by the bar for negligence and victim blaming if nothing else.
The worst thing about Nikki is that she’s vindictive too. She did not like being questioned about her lack of attention to detail, availability, memory, billable hours, or motivation to bring about resolution in our case. I commented that I thought it was distasteful how she and other attorneys show up with $5000 purses when people have to work all day to pay for one hour of their time. She labeled me obsessed as if I waste on those things. She had the audacity to accuse me of making up stories about my ex to get even with him when not one syllable of it is untrue. Nikki just didn’t want to have to work to verify any information or relay it while all the time flashing her cash and inflating her bill. She was incapable of impartiality, or doing her best to promote a healthy relationship for her clients.
You could hire almost any other attorney in St Louis and have a better experience.
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16 Dec, 2022 by Ellie
From the beginning it appeared she had no interest in our case, but certainly logged some hours. She was not responsive, did not enforce her own rules, did not step in when she needed to, put no plan together, her recommendations made no sense, she just seemed along for the ride. At times she was unprofessional and didn’t seem to know she was doing. Very disappointed in her work
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27 Oct, 2022 by Robert crisp
Patrick Bader and Jacob Murov are awesome guys. Patrick has been honest with me from start to finish. They will make sure you get the best medical treatment and most importantly they communicate with you about your case and make sure you’re comfortable. No hidden agendas like most and they are very, very honest. When no other attorney wanted to take my case Patrick & Jacob ensured me that they will do their best and fought for me and got me the best results. I was able to get all of my attorney and medical fees paid in full and also was compensated a hefty amount for pain and suffering I couldn’t ask for better attorneys. I’m extremely satisfied with the entire team!!!! Great job guys!!! If i could do a commercial for them i would!!!!
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09 Nov, 2024 by Lannie sing
There is not enough words to describe how incredible Scott and Issac are. These men fought and won victory over my dad setting him free on all counts. Issac and Scott gave out their personal cell phones and were always just a text or phone call away. They answered all of our questions right away, as our family had never been through any court related things. We always knew what to expect out of each court day, and never left in the dark. Scott and Issac treated my family and dad with upmost respect. We are so incredibly thankful for them and proving my father’s innocence.
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02 Nov, 2024 by Ryan zubrisky
Scott and Allie are the absolute BEST attorneys. I was confident that I was in good hands when Scott recommended Allie take over my case. Allie was very professional, extremely knowledgable, approachable, and always responded n a timely manner. Allie handled my case flawlessly and I highly recommend her!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Charles taylor
09 Nov, 2024 by Lannie sing
There is not enough words to describe how incredible Scott and Issac are. These men fought and won victory over my dad setting him free on all counts. Issac and Scott gave out their personal cell phones and were always just a text or phone call away. They answered all of our questions right away, as our family had never been through any court related things. We always knew what to expect out of each court day, and never left in the dark. Scott and Issac treated my family and dad with upmost respect. We are so incredibly thankful for them and proving my father’s innocence.
Read more
02 Nov, 2024 by Ryan zubrisky
Scott and Allie are the absolute BEST attorneys. I was confident that I was in good hands when Scott recommended Allie take over my case. Allie was very professional, extremely knowledgable, approachable, and always responded n a timely manner. Allie handled my case flawlessly and I highly recommend her!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Charles taylor
09 Nov, 2024 by Lannie sing
There is not enough words to describe how incredible Scott and Issac are. These men fought and won victory over my dad setting him free on all counts. Issac and Scott gave out their personal cell phones and were always just a text or phone call away. They answered all of our questions right away, as our family had never been through any court related things. We always knew what to expect out of each court day, and never left in the dark. Scott and Issac treated my family and dad with upmost respect. We are so incredibly thankful for them and proving my father’s innocence.
Read more
02 Nov, 2024 by Ryan zubrisky
Scott and Allie are the absolute BEST attorneys. I was confident that I was in good hands when Scott recommended Allie take over my case. Allie was very professional, extremely knowledgable, approachable, and always responded n a timely manner. Allie handled my case flawlessly and I highly recommend her!
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Charles taylor
09 Nov, 2024 by Lannie sing
There is not enough words to describe how incredible Scott and Issac are. These men fought and won victory over my dad setting him free on all counts. Issac and Scott gave out their personal cell phones and were always just a text or phone call away. They answered all of our questions right away, as our family had never been through any court related things. We always knew what to expect out of each court day, and never left in the dark. Scott and Issac treated my family and dad with upmost respect. We are so incredibly thankful for them and proving my father’s innocence.
Read more
02 Nov, 2024 by Ryan zubrisky
Scott and Allie are the absolute BEST attorneys. I was confident that I was in good hands when Scott recommended Allie take over my case. Allie was very professional, extremely knowledgable, approachable, and always responded n a timely manner. Allie handled my case flawlessly and I highly recommend her!
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Charles taylor
09 Nov, 2024 by Lannie sing
There is not enough words to describe how incredible Scott and Issac are. These men fought and won victory over my dad setting him free on all counts. Issac and Scott gave out their personal cell phones and were always just a text or phone call away. They answered all of our questions right away, as our family had never been through any court related things. We always knew what to expect out of each court day, and never left in the dark. Scott and Issac treated my family and dad with upmost respect. We are so incredibly thankful for them and proving my father’s innocence.
Read more
02 Nov, 2024 by Ryan zubrisky
Scott and Allie are the absolute BEST attorneys. I was confident that I was in good hands when Scott recommended Allie take over my case. Allie was very professional, extremely knowledgable, approachable, and always responded n a timely manner. Allie handled my case flawlessly and I highly recommend her!
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Charles taylor
09 Nov, 2024 by Lannie sing
There is not enough words to describe how incredible Scott and Issac are. These men fought and won victory over my dad setting him free on all counts. Issac and Scott gave out their personal cell phones and were always just a text or phone call away. They answered all of our questions right away, as our family had never been through any court related things. We always knew what to expect out of each court day, and never left in the dark. Scott and Issac treated my family and dad with upmost respect. We are so incredibly thankful for them and proving my father’s innocence.
Read more
02 Nov, 2024 by Ryan zubrisky
Scott and Allie are the absolute BEST attorneys. I was confident that I was in good hands when Scott recommended Allie take over my case. Allie was very professional, extremely knowledgable, approachable, and always responded n a timely manner. Allie handled my case flawlessly and I highly recommend her!
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Charles taylor
22 Oct, 2024 by Stacey morris
What age joke!!!!! Julie k Casalone which is a attorney for bankruptcy! Tried going for a collection off a credit company bought it and tried charging 1554.00 dollars for a 794.00 charge, somehow changed my courtdate so I wasn't present to represent myself and gave me false information from the first trial.. wasted my time seeking debt solution when it was too late!!!! A sorry excuse, and a waste of air for people like this to thank they are above people, buying people debt and making money off of them!!!!! Total scum
Read more
21 Sep, 2024 by Four eagles
Have always received valuable advice and quality service from this firm.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Joshua klemp
I couldn't be more grateful to Doug and his firm for the help they gave me. Roundabout 2 years ago now, I was facing a pretty scary legal situation that dropped on me out of the blue, and was lucky enough to be introduced to Doug through a mutual friend. I'd never been in any kind of legal trouble, and I was completely freaked out and totally lost. He called right away, patiently explained the plan, was attentive, confident, trustworthy and just knew exactly what to do. I can't tell you how much better I felt just knowing that he was on my side. In the blink of an eye, he got the case against me dropped. Look, if you're in any kind of a legal bind, I honestly can't think of a better guy to have in your corner. Hire this man right now. He will help you. I promise.
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13 Nov, 2020 by Jennifer pea
15 Apr, 2020 by Jim
Mr. Leightner was knowledgeable and reassuring. He explained what was going to happen during each phase of my case so I was always prepared and at ease. He anticipated my opponent's strategies and had plans in place for every scenario. Very smart man, I highly recommend him whenever I get the chance.
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20 Feb, 2020 by Alisa howard
10 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Highly suggest you avoid this lawyer at all costs. She will charge you thousands of dollars and keep your case going despite what you tell her to do. She spent over 3 years on my case and got me absolutely nothing in the end, specifically she got me exactly what I didn't want. Majority of the time she is unresponsive to emails, she lies to your face then goes behind your back and signs orders you didn't discuss with her or even agree to... she's a fraud and stuck up. I would like to give no stars. Highly disassociated in her ability to assist with my case. Do not hire her.
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10 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
I have hired Amy Gervich multiple times; I have a lot of faith in her ability to do what's right for her clients and always with the utmost professionalism. Let me add that her paralegal, also is very helpful and always showing a great attitude, thank you Amy & Jacqui
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27 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Amy is a kind of person that takes money without any conscience she tells you what you want to hear plays on your not knowing what the law is in the most vulnerable time of the divorce… it was a nightmare and I’m glad it’s over I would not recommend her to my worst enemy.
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13 Nov, 2020 by Jennifer pea
20 Feb, 2020 by Alisa howard
12 Nov, 2019 by Jeremiah ginn
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
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.
