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17 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Gregnnecia Darrett is an exceptional attorney who truly cares about her clients. Her team’s communication skills, legal knowledge, and courtroom presence are top-notch. I'm grateful for their representation.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Bailey patterson
Gregnnecia Darrett exceeded my expectations in every way. Her professionalism, extensive legal knowledge, and commitment to my case were impressive. Gregnnecia Darrett a kept me informed and involved in every decision, ensuring a clear understanding of the process. Her strategic advice and tireless work ethic contributed significantly to a successful outcome. For anyone looking for a dedicated and effective attorney, Gregnnecia Darrett is an excellent choice.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Anthony gomez
Gregnnecia Darrett is a remarkable lawyer who exceeded my expectations. From our first meeting, her expertise and dedication were apparent. She worked diligently on my case, providing clear explanations and sound advice. Gregnnecia Darrett proactive approach and thorough preparation were key in having my children returned to me. Her professionalism and genuine care for her clients makes her stand out. I’m grateful for her support and highly recommend her for any legal needs.
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06 Aug, 2018 by Raquel
Keith is a competent and considerate attorney who made my child support/custody case so much easier! I’m thankful for his understanding of the system and those involved as well. He knew what to say and what not to say. Enabled me to take care of what needed to be taken care of. = )
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31 Oct, 2014 by Brian d
Keith took care of what 2 prior attorneys just couldn't get done. I've recommended Keith to many friends since he took such great care of me and my kids.
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13 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Griffin seemed to be a very knowledgable attorney, however I would never know because nothing ever really got done with my case. My ex was pro-se and Mr. Griffin still let the case drag on for months, all the while ramping up the bill. I ended up having to get another attorney to get the job done.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Sukha sodhi
0 star
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02 Sep, 2024 by E
I received a no insurance ticket due to falling on hard times and got pulled over for allegedly not having a front license plate on my vehicle even tho I had one. the policy enforcer found an excuse to pull me over and have my rights violated on top of threatening me to take me to jail with my child in the car. I signed under duress and with all rights reserved to challenge jurisdiction and hired these incompetent idiots in hopes I could have it dismissed and because I would be at work and could not attend. Jimena Anaya withheld the fact that if I got insurance within 20 days I could have it dismissed and now it went against me as a CDL HOLDER out of pure spite and jealousy. Not to mention the policy enforcer could not even verify if I actually didn’t have a front license plate because I actually showed him.
These courts and bar members only work together to make money. Not to mention as a CDL HOLDER I was driving within my personal capacity and not in commerce.
And to add to the greediness they charge a $100 fee if you pay the ticket through them when you can just call the court and make a payment over the phone
****DO NOT HIRE THEM IF YOU HAVE A CDL THEY WILL TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TRUCK DRIVERS. YOURE BETTER OF CALLING YOURSELF FOR A HEARING AND FIGHT IT WITH CHALLENGING EVIDENCE ESPECIALLY IF THE COPS VIOLATED YOUR PROTECTED RUGHTS WITH THREATS, INTIMIDATION AND COERCION *******
THESE PEOPLE WORK WITH THESE TRAFFIC COURT$$$$
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21 Aug, 2024 by Jeremy dowe
Above and beyond! Ana Gonzalez assisted me with every concern up to court, Blake Stone my attorney came in to court and basically lit up the whole courthouse just with his incredible good-natured presence. Mr. Stone is the best attorney I have ever met, handling ancillary matters with ease, and giving me affordable options for more results. I cannot thank them enough and I have never been so impressed I don’t think that will ever wear off.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Vivtec
Zehl law had an outstanding team on their hands. My friend spoke mostly with Mr Warner and Mt Clinton and they were able to walk him through the legal process from beginning to end with little difficulty.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Davd chapman
Amazing attorneys!
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07 May, 2024 by Suzy featherston
Amazing experience. Spoke with Jeff Glassman regarding a complex, on-going issue with the IRS, a complex trust and back taxes. He not only listened but gave sound advice and counsel. Hope I do not need his help again but would recommend him 200%. Thank you!
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09 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Sally Pretorius had the audacity to altered a Final Decreed of Divorce, by deleting information behind the opposing party that was already agreed and signed by the parties. She did it in a very subtle way thinking it was going to be un-noticed.
All her information on google about her passion of helping other women are all BS. blah! blah! blah! Just words no actions.
Complete lack of integrity!
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28 Jul, 2014 by Tiffany
I switched to sally after having an attorney who did not take my case seriously. Sally did her research, paid attention to detail of my case and made me feel comfortable. she got me what i wanted in my child custody case in which my first attorney did not. i would highly recommend her!
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25 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Divorce is a drag and can get emotional. Sally used her energy and compassion to provide a sound legal strategy that kept all emotions checked at the door. Her straightforward advice was great and made a difficult situation tolerable. Thanks Sally!
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23 Jun, 2021 by Ben
I found Ms. Williams was very helpful in walking me through my divorce. After 45 years of marriage, we had business and property to separate. Ms. Williams told me the costs up front (which I felt were very reasonable!) She did all the work and kept me informed along the way.
I highly recommend her services!
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28 Mar, 2019 by Tim
After starting what was going to be a SIMPLE divorce, Michelle not only guided me through the tumultuous process but actually put me in a Better Position than I was seeking for myself. Her discovery of additional items got me additional assets that were established Pre-Marriage and consistently proved my ex inaccurate in her claims.
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27 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
She worked on my annulment case, she was professional and got the job done, highly recommended!
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09 Apr, 2019 by Cheryl
I had a very difficult and unexpected case filed against me and reached out to a family member who referred me to Keith M. Nelson, Esq., Partner at ONDA. I was nervous and stressed because, although no one ever likes to be in a law suite, life was at an all time high of events and life changes. Mr Nelson and his team of lawyers were extremely professional and comforting with their knowledge and diligence to protect my interest and legal rights. His legal team treated me so well throughout the entire process; they helped me to remain calm during this very stressful event. Mr. Nelson and Paul Hewitt were extremely supportive and provided a beacon of hope when my options appeared limited and the resolution seemed near to impossible to obtain. Me and my husband were concerned about the residual effects of a law suite during this time in our life, but ONDA was able to defend us from an unjust outcome, both Mr. Nelson and Mr Hewitt’s calm and empathetic demeanor offered emotional support to me during this very difficult time. As a woman of faith I believe God placed me in the “Best Hands” He had for me! I am truly grateful for Keith Nelson and Paul Hewitt, they not only provided legal counsel but most important personal care and concern that I needed and will never forget. I would highly recommend Keith M. Nelson and his law firm ONDA to anyone dealing with a family law dispute. I am thankful to this very fine man, Mr Keith M. Nelson.
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23 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Keith Nelson is a skilled talker... His greatest interest is his financial gain from his CLIENTS! Lookout for TONS of BOGUS FEES!!!
At $525 an hour, I got nothing more than a decree that is so jacked that I'm having to hire a new firm to fix all the contradictions and go back to court. Meanwhile, my life was butchered in the process!!!
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26 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
Does his best to protect the children from this process. Is very level headed and can see what is important and what is not. Very honest about financial issues.
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24 Jan, 2023 by Riley
This will be a detailed review so if you need a short one, do not hire Holly to represent you. If I had not checked and had my attorney partner to proof read, she would have ruined my finances and given one of my cars to my ex-wife. My attorney partner and her attorney father were appalled at what I went through here. I ended up correcting the entire petition myself with the help of my partner after I was still finding material (not just grammatical) errors after the 5th version.
First: Mishandling of material information
The most severe failure here was—despite me having provided material information twice, the second time in writing and organized so it was copy and paste-able—Holly still made severe errors. She assigned one of my brokerage accounts to my ex-wife that belonged to me. She put one of my cars’ VIN numbers as the VIN number for my ex wife’s car I was giving her. She wrote the same account number twice but as if it was different account types. Had this gone to court, it would have financially harmful or caused more delays and costs having to get it corrected. It was an agreed divorce and this could have caused my ex-wife to think I was trying to pull something over on her, which would have ruined the delicate peace we have.
I had to ask Holly 5-6 times to correct something else each time I reviewed another draft. I finally just ended up doing the key points myself, which defeats the purpose of paying someone two thousand dollars to do it. It took about 6 editions ultimately to get an acceptable decree because there were so many mistakes made inputting the very clear information I provided to Holly.
Secondly: Failure to protect non public information.
In the first draft of the final decree, Holly had left in information of her other clients in it instead of mine. This included their phone number, address, employer name and address, and partial social security number and drivers license number. There are laws about attorneys needing to protect and secure such information. Now I will worry forever about Holly doing the same to me with my information.
Third: Grammatical Errors.
Holly makes regular grammatical errors even in what was intended to be a final draft sent to a judge. From spelling my name as Wants, to putting my child’s initials as EAM when it’s AEW, missing periods, punctuation marks, missing or misspelled words. This is all in the first draft of the final decree she mailed me and was in the some 5th draft she wrote before I decided to correct it myself.
Lastly,
When it came time to file Holly said we could e-sign the decree, it was filed and rejected because it was e-signed. Holly ranted and raved rather unprofessionally about the Judge. This cost me another $40 in printing and more hours wasted syncing up with my ex-wife an hour away in Fort Worth to get it signed. For an attorney who claims to do all this electronically I’m surprised by her claims she didn’t know. I got her the signed paperwork two days later, and had to send three emails following up nearly a week afterwards to get her to confirm it was filed. Then another email a week later for her to bother uploading the signed decree.
I had paid Holly her fees in full as she does flat rate before we started on the decree (which is reasonable of her I might add) however had I not already paid in full, I would have fired her and hired another attorney. I didn’t only because I had already paid in full and it wasn’t until then all the severe stuff came up.
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10 Jan, 2011 by Jan
Holly worked with me on modifying my divorce settlement. She was very professional. Holly did a very good job of keeping me informed and was very easy to communicate with. She was tough, but fair and got everything resolved quickly. I would highly recommend Holly Schymik.
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27 May, 2010 by Laura
Holly worked with me on a particularly difficult litigation with my ex-husband. By the time we got to trial, Holly knew my case even better than I did. She was thorough and relentless in trying to resolve issues outside of court. Unlike with other lawyers I've used, I never felt that Holly suggested a course of action just to increase her billable hours. In fact, she did just the opposite and refused to engage in letter wars instigated by opposing counsel. I highly recommend her as a family lawyer and, in fact, have.
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07 Nov, 2017 by K wood
I hired Atty Holland to handle a personal legal issue. She did an excellent job understanding the information I gave her. In addition she asked the right questions so she could bring my case to a quick resolution. The best part is that she empathized with my wife and me and truly was our advocate. I just recommended her to a friend of mine and will continue to recommend to all that needs a great attorney. Kevin
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19 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Holland recently represented me in a family law case. I hired Ms. Holland after an unpleasant experience with another law firm. Ms. Holland was very attentive during our initial appointment. She actually listened to me and seemed to truly care about me and the details of my case. She was knowledgeable and was upfront about what I could expect.
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28 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
This atty failed to obtain correct information on court orders before they were signed by client and as a result client is jailed for much longer time. Atty failed to respond to request to resubmit info to court to correct the situation and does not return phone calls. A grievance process against her has been initiated.
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03 Oct, 2024 by K h
Vanessa Sheppard has represented me for years. Her professionalism and intrinsic motivation to help others goes unmatched. She is exceptionally competent in her field of expertise and explains the process as she advocates for you every step of the way. Vanessa has been a blessing to my family, and has helped me overcome barriers I didn’t think were possible. I appreciate you, Vanessa!
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21 Jun, 2024 by Mark clasby
Whether you’re mediating a case with Melinda or utilizing their talented attorneys and staff, your case or your client’s case will be in great hands.
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29 Oct, 2023 by Elizabeth
Do not hire Marianne holland she is not for women she a terrible lawyer literally promise me a fair trail with my husband and did not delivered paid her 11 grand and got nothing in return please take this as a sign she is not good she robbed me of 11 thousand and she didn’t do nothing just sit there and made me feel bad DO NOT HIRE this law firm please RUN And find someone else
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24 May, 2018 by Anonymous
I heard about Mr. Carlock and did my research on him on Super Lawyers as well. I set up a meeting and went to speak with him and the first meeting went very well. I was very impressed with his pitch, what he said he could do and how he could help me get custody back for my kids. When we were preparing for court, I had sent him over 70 messages and exchanges illustrating abuse and harassment from my kid’s father including pictures. When the time came for trial, Mr. Carlock was unprepared and did not use any of the evidence I had sent him while the Father’s attorney used their evidence. This resulted in the father getting more time with the kids over the summer and made me and my case look very weak in front the judge.
When I asked him after the case why he didn’t use any of the evidence he said “Oh, I wasn’t aware of it.” While his assistants said that they didn’t think it would matter in court. On top of that, I had a credit for a retainer while he refuses to give me back. Even worse, he is saying I owe him money and that the cost for the transcript of the case is more than is left on the retainer. He is essentially saying that he will not give me the transcript until I pay him even more money.
Mr. Carlock is a great salesman, but I urge anyone thinking of using him to do their research and do not buy the snakes oil that he is selling. He uses very inexperienced associates to prepare his cases which puts his clients in poor situations. I regret ever going to him and I am worse off now than I was before I went to Mr. Carlock. He’s a very nice guy, talks a great game but unfortunately the results are left to be desired.
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25 May, 2017 by Kaye bowman
David Carlock is THE premier attorney at law in Texas, and the United States. He is expensive, but he delivers every cent that his clients pay for his services. He is Trumpian-like that he is blunt and tells the Respondent(s) that the Dallas Courts are going to support his clients to the fullest extent. God bless David Carlock, Texas, and the United States of America.
Continue your good work, my dear friend and attorney!
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25 Sep, 2015 by Patrick
Clearly He's an expert at what he does. Just a great guy all around. Highly intelligent. He knows his stuff! This gentleman has a heart the size of Texas. He fought on behalf of our family for our children like he was a member. Very professional, just a pleasure and privilege to work with and even speak with. Very hard worker and a very caring individual.
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20 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
She represented my brother in a criminal case but did not practice criminal law and even set him up thinking that the courts didn’t know something that they already knew. She will take your money and run
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07 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
I was working with Karen M Burns from February to April 28, 2020. She has ghosted me and the case, that she sent a demand letter for. I last spoke with her on April 28 and it is July 7th and she has not returned any of my calls (I call weekly) and has not returned any of my 16 emails. I have received no explanation, her receptionists say they just saw her a few days ago, and she's never expressed any doubts in taking the case. We are now hearing back from the opposing party but Miss Burns has ruined the case as she will not communicate.
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02 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Hired attorney Karen Burns on October 23,2018. The firm is called Burns Iwuji, PLLC. I was searching for an attorney and found them on, Fathers Rights in Texas website. My mother first spoke with attorney Burns on September 2018, which was I’m assuming the free consultation. My mother met with attorney Iwuji and was charged a consultation fee which was odd because my mother clearly stated she was there to hire them. I did google the firm before we met and at that time they had great reviews.
However, both of this attorney will charge for possibly everything they can. Even the air you breath if possible. Attorney Iwuji mentioned that a portal was going to be set up. This was the way of us communicating with the firm and keeping up with charges incurred. The portal was set up a month after we hired them. I never received and invoice from them until June 2019 asking for more money because we had no more funds.
First court date was scheduled for Dec; 2018 it was rescheduled. Second court date 2/26/2019, judge gave the mother more time to hire and atty. I was before the judge no more than 5 minutes yet I was charged 2 hrs. Third court date 3/14/2019 we were there maybe 45 minutes I was charged for another 2 hrs. Attorney Burns, constantly wanted to meet to go over our case. Every time we met with her we were charged for 2 hrs. Now, keep in mind we didn’t know about the charges because up until the last time we met we hadn’t received and invoice. I would send atty Burns emails over and over again with no response. If I called the office because she wouldn’t reply and spoke them for like literally 2-3 minutes I was charged $30. I have plenty of proof to show how incompetent this attorney was.
Absolutely nothing was accomplished. My daughter is still in an abuse home. I lost money and time form work. I believed and trusted attorney Burns. Now, I truly believe this firm was a RIP off. Unfortunately, I can’t say to do your research before hiring anyone because I did. I lost thousands of dollars and I’ve also lost hope in the justice system. I pray to God every day that he keeps my daughter safe.
*We hired them to have a court ordered already in place be modified.
(atty made an agreement w/the mother for extended time from March –June 2019)
*I have several police reports on mother for not showing up to pick up my daughter.
*I have police reports and videos of mother showing up an hour late to drop off or to pick up my daughter.
*I have pictures of the physical abuse
*Mother was ordered to change last name on my daughter it’s been 3 years and it hasn’t been done yet.
*Mother has long history with CPS.
*And the list goes on and on.
AM
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10 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Nice person, believed in me and my story but couldn’t do much. If I asked him anything he generally would say I can’t help with that . I got charged close to 20k but not a single result . He also continues to charge for even one e-mail even if it does not result in anything being filed . I wouldn’t recommend
him.
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29 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
I was referred to Mr. Lamorgese to review a potential appeal of a high-conflict and voluminous child custody case.
Before the initial consultation, Brad was able to reach out to the attorneys on file and review the case, so the actual time was spent very effectively, not reviewing the case but discussing the possible solutions.
All the notes and suggestions received during the consultation were spot on, and of a great assistance.
After we found that the cost of representation is out of my price range, Mr. Lamorgese went far and beyond referring me to more affordable yet still superb firms.
I highly recommend Mr. Lamorgese as a knowledgeable professional with great attitude towards his clients.
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03 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I paid $250 to consult with this attorney. The zoom call lasted 15 minutes when I was assured the appointment would last for an hour. He was very dismissive and told me that I would have no success in my case after skimming my materials. I then asked if he may be able to send me similar cases he worked on that have been publicly posted ( most lawyers do so you can reference their work) and he said he would have to be retained to do this. I did not get a proper consult and he should have refunded the consult fee as it only lasted 15 minutes.
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01 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Ashley promised to keep charges down. Instead she threatened to withdraw constantly if funds weren't constantly replenished. She had charges for paralegals doing general secretarial work and reading emails she already charged for reading. Her fees were astronomical and work was poor. She entered stuff incorrectly for me and refused to correct her work or help me get it corrected which cost me terribly and my children.
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15 Apr, 2014 by John
My case was a child custody case. Being a Father in Texas and trying to get custody of your children seemed to be an almost impossible task. The Texas court system is NOT too favorable to giving Father's custody, even when the children want to live with their Father. Ashley was highly recommended and turned out to be the attorney we needed to help us successfully navigate our difficult, if not impossible, court system. She is very knowledgeable, professional and courteous. She was confident, comfortable and performed exceptionally well in court. We can't thank her enough for helping bring our family much joy and happiness. She was a life changer for our family.
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17 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Did not hear my side of the story and supposed to been defending me I did everything he asked every court date when he tell me not to come or leave the courthouse I've done that I reported twice a week I did all that I'm in a wheelchair with one leg I had a court day Wednesday me and him talk Wednesday Tuesday and Wednesday he even sent me a police report I'm just now getting a police report from November 26th but it's not nothing on there that I said that I'm the one call the police so if I call the police that mean they supposed to have gave me a chance to say something I was in the house A man jumped up in a piece of glass broke and scratched him on his hand or he scratched his stuck himself with that ice pick he said over there but he picked up a 40 oz bottle so I throw some plastic season is to try to knock it out his hand went back and call the police but my law you don't he I don't know he text me at 11:00 this morning and said we have court she going to issue a warrant she issued a one I'm out of town and I'll be gone for 3 weeks that's what he said now the bonding company trying to figure out why m i getting off a warrant.. he seem like he was a pretty good cool guy but I don't know what happened I'm quite sure he was real busy but I'm not trying to go to jail after I've been going through all the treat seizures and everything that he asked of me I liked him but seem like he just dropped my cage today my court date was Wednesday how did I have a court date Friday Wednesday I told him I didn't want to pay no money to take no class because he haven't even listened to my side of the story and we've been dealing with this for 6 months. He done told me at least three times oh you don't need to come you don't need to come you know he keep telling me that and then when I show up he said oh I'm going to be at least 3 hours late leave and I stand in for you that's what he's been doing that's why I kind of thought he was okay. For for me.
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28 Apr, 2015 by Philip
Glenn was, to me, an excellent attorney. He knows the law well. He takes the needed time to counsel with you to obtain all needed information and gives excellent legal advise. There were many times Glenn was more than an attorney but also a caring friend. Often he said just the right words that I needed to hear to help me gain wisdom, strength and endurance. He not only has an excellent reputation as a skilled, successful, wise attorney but he is also known for his caring, good heart. He will fight hard for justice and the rights of his client.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Kayla scott
Complete JOKE! They filed suit without our permission. They do not communicate at all. They do not follow directions. And they lie! Horrible service. Do not use them unless you want your situation to get worse.
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24 Oct, 2023 by David pena
Did not show up to court. Lost all our paperwork and emailed copies 3 times. Resending not a big deal but annoying. Communication through out the whole process was horrible. Now we lost the case and it's very hard to over turn. He has promised to return our money in payments. First check was denied by the bank. And now he says I forgot. I have the emails to prove it.
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05 May, 2023 by Aja holman
BEWARE they will take your money and will not do anything!!!!
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14 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I did not like Pauline O'Toole. I did not like the way she treated her paralegal who frankly can work at a much better law firm without the abuse. Pauline also seems to like to stir up problems and create conflict to increase her compensation and fund her trips to Europe. For example, she encourage me to ask for full custody, which I later found out from a good and ethical attorney that full custody would be extremely difficult to get and would end up hurting my case, because that would show I am not willing to co-parent, and do the opposite of what is in the best interest of our children. Unfortunately, I learned the hard way and after wasting many hundreds of thousands of dollars. There are much much better attorneys. Hope you all find one with a good heart, who actually cares about your family.
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15 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
All Pauline talks about is money. She has no concern for the family's welfare. We made several attempts to settle things amicably, but she attempted every trick in the book and kept breaking her promises, never giving me what I wanted. She simply worries about money and lacks morals. Because of her inability to work with others and the growing realization that she just cares about herself and her money, she keeps ending her relationships with various lawyers and legal organizations.
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16 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I consulted with this attorney and decided not to hire him. Two things that turned me off. First, he kept pressing me to come in to the office and engage with him and his firm. He didn’t seem interested in my questions or in earning my trust that would lead me to come in on my own without his pressure. Secondly, I mistakenly shared with him the name of another attorney I was considering and he did nothing but bad mouth her and criticize her and her practice. Both of those were a huge turn off from someone who espouses his faith as mush as he does. Wolf in sheep’s clothing…..
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15 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I would not recommend this lawyer. Her work was incomplete.
The lawyer failed to advise me of the status of the case, and failed
to engage with the opposing counsel. She seemed pre-occupied and passed me off to lesser qualified and less aggressive lawyers.
They would call on Friday afternoons to generate billings.
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24 Jul, 2021 by Monae mcallister
Natasha Combs from Dallas,TX…McKinney,TX is not a lawyer to turn to for ANY legal Issues maybe adoptions is all she good for she Won’t fight for you if Anybody is reading this I had a CPS case for a year completed services & all & I’ve had a place for a Year & own transportation for 6 months maintained and still maintaining with out ANY government assistance paid out my own pocket for my own drug tests to prove CPS wrong At the every beginning how this case started with CPS was when I tested for a dirty UA in a shelter then my CPS caseworker without no regards placing my daughter in a home while I was being touched inappropriately while growing up in a home simply ignoring everything I felt and still went on and did it a homesteady without asking if anyone else who knows of this and so I went file Every hair tests proving CPS while this attorney didn’t fight hard enough for me Now…after I’ve done all that is necessary CPS turned around saying they do not care about the results and still giving her to another family member after having mental allegations on me while I pass a psychological a year ago and STILL went out my way and did another ON MY OWN and still NOO diagnosis of anything CPS is trying to portray of me from a psychiatrist recently and in Closing Nobody get this Court appointed attorney and IF you decide to pay her out your money you’ll be wishing you went elsewhere because clearly she don’t care As to what happened to me for example No remorse No compassion for parents to be reunited with their children …Now I wait for yet another year from here on this day to praying and fighting harder for my daughter to come through the system from my mom.
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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:
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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.
