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5.0
23 Reviews
4.5
44 Reviews
07 Feb, 2025 by Natgely
I cannot express enough gratitude to Sam and the entire team for their exceptional work on my case. From start to finish, they provided unwavering support, professionalism, and expertise, guiding me through every step of the process with care and clarity. The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I truly appreciate the dedication and commitment they showed throughout.
If you’re looking for a knowledgeable and compassionate legal team to handle your divorce, I highly recommend them. Their professionalism and attention to detail made a difficult situation much easier to navigate. I will absolutely refer anyone in need of a divorce attorney to this firm.
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29 Jan, 2025 by Kiana
I still remember the day I called the main line, 37 weeks pregnant, in complete disarray being threatened, when Alisha picked up the phone. I knew from that moment this was a firm I wanted and needed. I was referred by a friend to request for Samantha McBride specifically, and that her reputation inSan Bernardino County is unmatched. That call was almost 2 years ago. Today I have peace because of this firm. Thank you to the entire team, and most importantly, Sam. Thankful you’re a phone call away if I ever need you again.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Attorney Samantha McBride was attentive and thorough during the entirety of my case. She is not only exceedingly knowledgeable about family law, but she took an active interest in me as a client and a person, and supported me each step of the way. I am grateful for her help and service, and I would recommend her to anyone in need of a family law attorney.
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.5
44 Reviews
18 Jul, 2024 by Sarai boe
Xenia was an amazing lawyer, I totally recommend This law firm.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Serena chen
27 May, 2022 by Joe byers
5.0
20 Reviews
4.5
44 Reviews
18 Jul, 2024 by Sarai boe
Xenia was an amazing lawyer, I totally recommend This law firm.
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06 Jul, 2024 by Bonillamichelle10
I was referred to Holstrom, Sissung Mark & Anderson by a friend who said they were the very best. I have to say he was absolutely right! Since the moment I walked in to the firm I felt as if a huge wheight lifted off my shoulders. That day I met with Dayn, he was firm and very knowledgable. He laid out his plan and I was very impressed. After being harassed and taken advantage of by my estranged husband and his attorney I finally didn't feel afraid. Everyone at Holstrom, Sissung Mark & Anderson is very knowledgable, organized, and compassionate. They know exactly what to do and will defend you with all they've got!! They are currently working on my domestic violence/divorce/child custody case and I am confident to say that they will GET IT DONE! The entire staff at Holstrom, Sissung Mark & Anderson is extraordinary, they make you feel at ease & really know how to take care of their clients. Tiffany Zurita is the paralegal assigned to assist with my case. She has been very helpful & professional. She answer all my questions/emails within a matter of minutes and really gives me peace of mind. I highly recommend Holstrom, Sissung Mark & Anderson.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Serena chen
18 Jul, 2024 by Sarai boe
Xenia was an amazing lawyer, I totally recommend This law firm.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Michael
Highly recommend Jeremy Roark. His intelligence and courtroom presence is unmatched. Just walking down the halls people knew he’s a big deal. He explained everything very clearly and was dedicated to the best possible outcome. I would not hesitate to have Jeremy represent me in the future.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Serena chen
5.0
2 Reviews
4.7
96 Reviews
11 Feb, 2025 by Violeta lopez
Muy mal servicio tuve una consulta y en vez de preguntarme sobre lo que ocupaba yo le interesaba más el dinero de sus honorarios no tiene buena comunicación no lo recomiendo ni lo contrataré
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01 Feb, 2025 by Sanchi mahajan
Highly recommend Karlin & Karlin.
Helped me to get my green card within a year, best out there. They answered all my questions and made the process much easier and less scary for me.
Couldn’t be more grateful.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Dayna dutton
This guy is one of the best! 100% recommend if you need to be represented! He helped us with legal matters and fought hard to win. I'd definitely use again if I ever needed it!
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4.6
9 Reviews
4.7
96 Reviews
11 Feb, 2025 by Violeta lopez
Muy mal servicio tuve una consulta y en vez de preguntarme sobre lo que ocupaba yo le interesaba más el dinero de sus honorarios no tiene buena comunicación no lo recomiendo ni lo contrataré
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01 Feb, 2025 by Sanchi mahajan
Highly recommend Karlin & Karlin.
Helped me to get my green card within a year, best out there. They answered all my questions and made the process much easier and less scary for me.
Couldn’t be more grateful.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Dayna dutton
This guy is one of the best! 100% recommend if you need to be represented! He helped us with legal matters and fought hard to win. I'd definitely use again if I ever needed it!
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24 Dec, 2024 by Chris campana
My intake person Yvonne was very kind and caring in hearing my sadness and how the firm could potentially help. She answered some basic questions that I really needed knowledge on and was extremely professional.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Vincent lopez
Be careful with these sharks. Have your guard up in the end they’re here to make money and that’s their number one priority.
Long story short, I went in with my case. Other party was using non existent arrears to have me bend at their will. I went to them for help and they strung me along making me think I had a chance.
First court date comes up and judge calls off. Over $1500 for that day and all I got was a continuance.
They charge me for 3 missed phone calls that totaled up to just under $300
My attorney called me the the wrong name twice.
Other party reaches out for an agreement proposal and instead of attempting to resolve they state “attorney is ready to go” and we proceed to court. $2800 later and all they did was ask for continuance.
$16,000 later and they tell me to just agree to the terms other party has presented me. The exact same position I was in before I hired Reel father rights. Thousands in the hole and no custody of my child. Beware of them.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Freddie guerrero
5.0
7 Reviews
4.5
44 Reviews
18 Jul, 2024 by Sarai boe
Xenia was an amazing lawyer, I totally recommend This law firm.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Rick
I cannot express my gratitude enough for the exemplary legal representation provided by Attorney Ron Funk and his dedicated team. From the very beginning, their commitment to communication and excellence set them apart, earning my complete trust and satisfaction.
Attorney Funk demonstrated an unmatched level of expertise and professionalism throughout the entirety of my case. His ability to communicate complex legal matters in a clear and understandable manner was truly impressive. I always felt well-informed and confident in the strategy being pursued.
What truly sets Attorney Funk and his team apart is their unwavering dedication to their clients. They went above and beyond, investing time and effort to thoroughly understand the nuances of my case. Their commitment to my best interests was evident as they tirelessly worked to ensure that every detail was meticulously addressed.
The communication from the entire team was exceptional. I was kept informed at every stage of the legal process, and any questions or concerns I had were addressed promptly and with the utmost care. This level of transparency and responsiveness greatly alleviated the stress that often accompanies legal matters.
Most impressively, Attorney Funk and his team successfully navigated my case, ultimately resulting in its dismissal. Their commitment to achieving the best possible outcome was evident at every turn, and I am incredibly grateful for their hard work and dedication.
I wholeheartedly recommend Attorney Funk and his team to anyone seeking legal representation. Their commitment to excellence, effective communication, and willingness to go the extra mile make them unparalleled in their field. Thank you, Attorney Funk and team, for your outstanding service!
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07 Sep, 2023 by Serena chen
5.0
6 Reviews
4.5
44 Reviews
02 Sep, 2024 by Jessica
Natalie was my 3rd family law attorney when she inherited my very sensitive and complicated family law case that had been ongoing for 2 years. She required little time to catch up and even less time to identify a path forward that set my mind at ease. With empathy for our journey up to that point, she made her first appearance and demonstrated that she would be a strong advocate for our minor child. Natalie has always been incredibly professional, as well as friendly and compassionate in every interaction. She consistently checked in and offered her experienced advice. After 1 and a half years of guiding our case, Natalie was able to get our family to a point of self-management, and our case moved out of the courts. I am deeply grateful for Natalie's support and leadership during one of the most difficult periods of our lives. Her impact cannot be measured.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Zachary
Very pleased with the knowledge and attitude she had. She was very receptive to my expectations and very knowledgeable with how to accomplish my goals with the divorce hearing.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Sara
Ms. Hollis and her team make you feel like you and your case are a priority. She is timely and well spoken. Common sense and dependability are what come to mind when I think of Natalie. There are many lawyers out there but a few will actually remember and invest time in your case. I’ve even had a lawyer forget my name while representing me in court and that same lawyer cost me more money in child support from a clerical error his staff made. I know that Natalie is there to step up for me and be an ally when the going gets tough. Her staff is right by her side to back her up. As a RN I advocate for my patients all the time. It’s nice to know that I have Natalie invested in advocating for my child. Family law is not a cakewalk, lots of emotions and unnecessary arguments are battled. Natalie can negotiate this arena with intelligence and grace. You will not be disappointed with her counsel.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Andrew williams
Do yourself a favor and stay far away. Expensive as heck, having 3-4 different people touching your file and running up your bill. But they managed to turn my 18 month alimony arrangement to 21… RUN! $6,000 mistake!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Luis perez
Called to schedule a consultation for my mother to process a divorce. With my mother being Spanish speaking, I asked if I could help with translating. They said no and because no one in the firm speaks Spanish. Which is fine they’re not required to. So they referred me to another law firm that speaks Spanish. I have no issues with speaking to our immigration lawyer as a translator so not sure how this is different or they just don’t serve the Latino community. Either way not surprising based off other reviews here so we probably are better off.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Stanley miller
They will take your money and leave you high and dry!!
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16 Oct, 2024 by Andrew williams
Do yourself a favor and stay far away. Expensive as heck, having 3-4 different people touching your file and running up your bill. But they managed to turn my 18 month alimony arrangement to 21… RUN! $6,000 mistake!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Luis perez
Called to schedule a consultation for my mother to process a divorce. With my mother being Spanish speaking, I asked if I could help with translating. They said no and because no one in the firm speaks Spanish. Which is fine they’re not required to. So they referred me to another law firm that speaks Spanish. I have no issues with speaking to our immigration lawyer as a translator so not sure how this is different or they just don’t serve the Latino community. Either way not surprising based off other reviews here so we probably are better off.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Stanley miller
They will take your money and leave you high and dry!!
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18 Jul, 2024 by Sarai boe
Xenia was an amazing lawyer, I totally recommend This law firm.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Jenc2279
From the day that I walked into meet with Jeff and Dayn it has been a pleasurable experience. I was forced to hire an attorney when my ex filed a motion for full custody of our daughter even though I had been the custodial parent since birth . After making a few calls to law offices I made an appointment to meet with Dayn Holstrom.. I have worked with Dayn, Jeff and Mariana throughout my case and I have never been disappointed. I was very comfortable with each of them. I never felt nervous at any time throughout my case. Before I hired them, I was representing myself and it has been very scary. They did a great job in representing me and won my custody case for me. I have an upcoming support hearing and I am comforted by the fact that I know I have great representation. Dayn agreed to work with me financially. Had he not done this I would have been fighting this battle alone. Dayn’s firm is the first and only attorney I have used. I will never use another firm in the future either. Comfort is very important to me and every person in that office makes me feel comfortable. This is a great feeling.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Serena chen
24 Dec, 2024 by Chris campana
My intake person Yvonne was very kind and caring in hearing my sadness and how the firm could potentially help. She answered some basic questions that I really needed knowledge on and was extremely professional.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Vincent lopez
Be careful with these sharks. Have your guard up in the end they’re here to make money and that’s their number one priority.
Long story short, I went in with my case. Other party was using non existent arrears to have me bend at their will. I went to them for help and they strung me along making me think I had a chance.
First court date comes up and judge calls off. Over $1500 for that day and all I got was a continuance.
They charge me for 3 missed phone calls that totaled up to just under $300
My attorney called me the the wrong name twice.
Other party reaches out for an agreement proposal and instead of attempting to resolve they state “attorney is ready to go” and we proceed to court. $2800 later and all they did was ask for continuance.
$16,000 later and they tell me to just agree to the terms other party has presented me. The exact same position I was in before I hired Reel father rights. Thousands in the hole and no custody of my child. Beware of them.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Freddie guerrero
24 Dec, 2024 by Chris campana
My intake person Yvonne was very kind and caring in hearing my sadness and how the firm could potentially help. She answered some basic questions that I really needed knowledge on and was extremely professional.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Vincent lopez
Be careful with these sharks. Have your guard up in the end they’re here to make money and that’s their number one priority.
Long story short, I went in with my case. Other party was using non existent arrears to have me bend at their will. I went to them for help and they strung me along making me think I had a chance.
First court date comes up and judge calls off. Over $1500 for that day and all I got was a continuance.
They charge me for 3 missed phone calls that totaled up to just under $300
My attorney called me the the wrong name twice.
Other party reaches out for an agreement proposal and instead of attempting to resolve they state “attorney is ready to go” and we proceed to court. $2800 later and all they did was ask for continuance.
$16,000 later and they tell me to just agree to the terms other party has presented me. The exact same position I was in before I hired Reel father rights. Thousands in the hole and no custody of my child. Beware of them.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Freddie guerrero
18 Jul, 2024 by Sarai boe
Xenia was an amazing lawyer, I totally recommend This law firm.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Emma
she was my former attorney, and I fired her after acted against my will three time on the same issue. I have serious reservations about her competence and ethical conduct:
1. She ignored and acted against my will not once, not twice, but three times on the same issue. I didn’t feel like I was respected at all. She failed to communicate her strategy and get my consent, which I think is to the purpose of maximizing her billing hours.
2. Her oversight delayed my case for a month. I told her the other party’s translation was not done by a court-certified translator twice, one time via phone, one time via email. she just ignored it. When the judge asked her if she knew that, she said she didn’t. I don’t know if she perjured herself or she didn’t remember. The result is that I had to wait a month for the other party to get the translation done by court-certified translator.
3. I believe Ms. Eyre knew the court wouldn't grant spousal support and attorney's fee while the jurisdiction hasn't been determined, the best option for me was to continue the hearing until the jurisdiction is determined. But instead she deliberately found a case law that’s obviously irrelevant to jurisdiction and pretended that I had a chance so that she could argue in court to maximize her billing hours. In re Marriage of Knox, 83 Cal.App.5th 15 (2022), the case law she used, has no bearing on jurisdiction. I think this action resulted in a Breach of Duty. If she argues that that’s not her intention, then she is incompetent to see that the case law had no bearing on jurisdiction. I consulted multiple lawyers, they all told me every lawyer knows the court wouldn't grant any financial relief while the jurisdiction hasn't been determined, this is taught in the first year of law school I felt deeply wronged upon learning this. I knew lawyers could be greedy, but I thought she'd go easy on me because I told her I couldn’t get a job due to my immigrant status and had taken a loan to fund the lawsuit.
I strongly advise against considering her for your legal needs.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Serena chen
09 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Erik assisted one of my parents in a case that we didn’t think had the capability of ending in a positive outcome. However, through his tenacity and drive to help his clients, he ended up obtaining a result that was better than we could have imagined. He’s a very excellent and caring Attorney. I couldn’t imagine hiring anyone else. Thank you again, Erik!
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08 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
As a father committed to my daughters, I was disheartened with attorneys who seem to lack interest in fighting for me. After almost giving up, I gave Real Fathers Rights a try, and boy, o boy, I did not regret it. Erik, fought for me. Thanks to Erik, I was able to be part of my daughters life! Fight for your kids, and this guy has your back!!!
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01 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Erik is a great advocate for men going through divorce. He is knowledgeable and empathetic. He is also an extremely skilled litigator. I would highly recommend any man in family court speak with Erik
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24 Dec, 2024 by Chris campana
My intake person Yvonne was very kind and caring in hearing my sadness and how the firm could potentially help. She answered some basic questions that I really needed knowledge on and was extremely professional.
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Vincent lopez
Be careful with these sharks. Have your guard up in the end they’re here to make money and that’s their number one priority.
Long story short, I went in with my case. Other party was using non existent arrears to have me bend at their will. I went to them for help and they strung me along making me think I had a chance.
First court date comes up and judge calls off. Over $1500 for that day and all I got was a continuance.
They charge me for 3 missed phone calls that totaled up to just under $300
My attorney called me the the wrong name twice.
Other party reaches out for an agreement proposal and instead of attempting to resolve they state “attorney is ready to go” and we proceed to court. $2800 later and all they did was ask for continuance.
$16,000 later and they tell me to just agree to the terms other party has presented me. The exact same position I was in before I hired Reel father rights. Thousands in the hole and no custody of my child. Beware of them.
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Freddie guerrero
5.0
5 Reviews
4.5
44 Reviews
18 Jul, 2024 by Sarai boe
Xenia was an amazing lawyer, I totally recommend This law firm.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Serena chen
27 May, 2022 by Joe byers
23 Jan, 2025 by Linda blankinship
It was time to update my Trust and add in some important details. I looked at online reviews first, and was drawn to Preston Law Group by their public reviews and mission statement. I’m SO happy to say that the prompt service, attention to detail, professionalism, and friendliness of all Group members was the best experience I could have hoped for. Thank you all!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Asad waseem
I had an outstanding experience working with them on my E2 visa application. From start to finish, their team was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and supportive. They took the time to thoroughly explain the process, answered all my questions with patience, and made sure I was well-prepared at every stage. Their expertise was evident in how they handled all the details of my case, and thanks to their diligent work, my E2 visa was approved smoothly and without delay. I am extremely grateful for their help and would highly recommend their services to anyone seeking assistance with U.S. immigration matters.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Jaafar sami
I've been with Mr . Qazi for more than 12 years .
He helped me with my asylum case and the board of Immigration Appeal . and then in the court .
and after that with the
I -130 and I-485 applications ., through the whole process and to the interview .
Mr Qazi, excellent immigration attorney ,
my case very difficult and complicated and it was rejected by the the 9th circuit.
and I had no other option before the final notice of removal .
I had multiple consultations with prominent immigration lawyers, and all of them said no hope or asking for large sum without guarantee .
Mr Qazy found the solution for it, and it works . we went back to the immigration court .
and now I got the green card
I am very pleased with Mr. Qazi work,
and certainly recommending him for any immigration case.
Thank you Mr .Qazi for your help
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18 Jul, 2024 by Sarai boe
Xenia was an amazing lawyer, I totally recommend This law firm.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Claudia
Everything I was looking for in an attorney representation of my case I was able to find in Mr. Ruiz. I felt like my case had very unique circumstances and that I needed to find an adequate, professional, strong, confident and understanding of my needs type of representation. Mr. Ruiz was always very professional, approachable and always provided the guidance I needed. I am very grateful and satisfied with the level of service provided by Mr. Ruiz and the successful overall outcome of my case as it helped me get closure to all the pain and suffering I endured during my divorce settlement proceedings.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Debra
Alex recently represented me as part of Kristen Holstrom's team in a custody and child support dispute. Admittedly, I was nervous at first with Alex only being an attorney for a short amount of time; however he understanding this he was able to communicate what the plan of attack was and how we would move forward with the case. There were a lot of unknowns, but Alez's calm yet stern demeanor proved to be successful in the court room. We went in very well prepared and walked out with a better result that we had even expected. I am thankful for the service I have had with Alex and the Holstrom firm over all.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Crystal yiep
Ali answers all questions. Very knowledgeable, helpful and kind with my case. Would definitely recommend to all my friends and family. Thank you Ali!
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27 Dec, 2024 by Karen roman
Going through a step-parent adoption is always a hard process and we didn’t know what to expect in general or how to begin with the process. When we talked to Lilian she explained everything in detail and every part of the process she made it so simple and smooth for us. She’s sharp, empathetic, and her expertise and kindness made my husband and me feel at ease in every step of the process. We’re so thankful for her support.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Dayra michelle corlay diaz
My experience with Family Law was spectacular and really reassuring. I reached out so they could take on my child custody case, I didn’t know how to proceed or what to do but all of the team made me feel confident with their expertise, empathy and approach. I’d highly recommend her to anyone going through a family issue similar to this.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Sarai boe
Xenia was an amazing lawyer, I totally recommend This law firm.
Read more
07 Sep, 2023 by Serena chen
27 May, 2022 by Joe byers
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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.
