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22 Jun, 2023 by Lanell
She's an amazing lawyer that's representing melly right now, she represented me on a home invasion case which got dropped, her body is absolutely gorgeous and her lips are very attractive
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20 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
In court she can’t conduct herself laughs or makes odd facial expressions and does very unprofessional things.
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17 Jan, 2023 by Alex
this is the worst lawyer you can ever hire....... I've Never experienced someone so awful.........she used google to write motions in my case that all got denied........... waste of my money
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27 Mar, 2019 by Peter
Jason Ricardo and his assistant Kim made the process run so smoothly that the Case settled in almost no time. Friendly and Professional is an accurate characterization of the firm. I have 2 other collection cases they are currently handling.
Please don't hesitate to contact Jason and his staff!
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27 Nov, 2018 by Melissa
Jason has represented me in a difficult and aggressive foreclosure case against Wells Fargo for years. He has successfully managed to hold them responsible for a multitude of errors regarding my mortgage, and their actions incredibly frustrating and borderline illegal activities since. I can't recommend him more highly.
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14 Mar, 2018 by Beth
I retained ricardo and wasyik after seeing some videos on YouTube. They look professional but they are not. Like the other review he was only out to collect monthly fees and let the case drag on. When I asked him for an invoice he refused to give it to me. I saw he filed one motion only. He received over 5000. I am filing a complaint. The Florida bar. He was one of two attorneys that do the same thing. They prey on people that need help and don't know what the law is. Every client is entitled to an invoice and good representaction. Just because a retainer may state it is non refundable does not imply the attorney can just keep thousands of unearned money. They must show how they have earned it. He can now let the Floral Bar know. He will refund my money back....I have nasty emails from him when I asked for my invoice.
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02 Aug, 2018 by Kevin
Extremely competent lawyer who knows the legal system very well. I hired Anne for a family law case that took a sharp turn into dependency court. For those of you who do not know, dependency court is grueling, complicated, and requires someone with poise, confidence, as well as, physical and emotional stamina. Anne went over and above the necessary lawyer/client relationship. Anne was my lawyer, but most importantly my rock during this difficult climb. I would not wish fighting for your child in dependency on anyone, but if you do, Anne is the one you want on your side. Anne has become my dear friend, and indoctrinated into our family. I do not know where I would be without Anne Alper.
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10 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms. Anne V Alper has mishandled my case from the beginning. I have documentation from the signing her contract to every back and forth email consisting of her excuses. She focuses on doing the right thing for her clients, as she claims, but Point and fact, she does not. As Jackie posted her dealings with Ms. Alper, I must do the same as this is horrible that a lawyer can repeatedly take advantage of clients. It is unfair immoral, and this repeated activity from a lawyer needs to be evaluated accordingly.
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17 Apr, 2017 by Jackie
Anne appeared to be knowledgeable in child custody cases and appeared to be concerned about my issues and need to get things moving in a timely manner. I paid a 4,000.00 retainer and got absolutely NOTHING accomplished: no custody agreement signed; Anne did not respond the the other parties last submission and as a result I am in default; when I brought this to her attention she filed a motion but it was too late. I lost $4000.00 and Anne was indifferent at best. Buyer beware. I have all documentation to substantiate these allegations so feel free to email me if you would like the details I would hate for anybody to go thru what I Went. I had to hire another attorney to start from fresh.
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17 Jul, 2018 by Danita
I hired Sharon to handle my divorce. She was caring, honest, direct, and discreet throughout the entire process. She gave me appropriate advice and direction and honored my requests as well. I enthusiastically recommend her services.
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07 Apr, 2018 by Cherron
I could not be happier with the services I received from Sharon Watson. She is extremely efficient and professional. She was responsive to my phone calls and emails and always available to answer questions. I highly recommend her for any family or criminal law matter.
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22 May, 2013 by Rob
I paid Sharon a $5,000 retainer knowing that it was a "non-refundable: retainer, She took my money and went on vacation the next day. I could not reach her, I had several legal questions, and ended up listening to a non lawyer and dismissed my case. She did nothing for the retainer and although there must be what is called "consideration" for a contract to be legal, she refused to return any of the money. Shortly thereafter, I decided to pursue the divorce; Sharon refused to represent me even though she still had my money. My guess is that she waited for some sucker to giver her the vacation money she needed and she no longer had the money to repay me. I know you may say, well it was non-refundable" and I would agree with you if she had a) done anything for the money and b) been reachable. Not only did she keep my retainer for doing absolutely nothing, she refused to provide counsel after she kept my money. Buyer Beware.
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12 Jun, 2018 by Christin
Ms. Marquez-Kelly was an amazing advocate for our families needs at a time when we really needed assistance. Her professionalism and style was very reassuring at the precise time. She was very easy to discuss our case with and we really appreciated the free consultation we had prior to hiring her. I felt at ease and was confident after meeting with her that she was the right attorney for my case. As it turns out, she was definitely the right attorney for us.
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01 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
She promised me the world and delivered nothing. Charges for everything! A simple 2 minute call to forwarding an email to you will run you a minimum of $50. Retainer gone within a couple weeks and nothing accomplished.
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18 May, 2024 by Anonymous
This attorney showed up unprepared to a hearing which resulted in losing my complete time share with my child. Stay away from her at all costs. She is flexible with payment but there are consequences with this. Very poor service, unprofessional, unorganized.
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29 Aug, 2019 by Juan
I consulted and used Aileen Torrens, Esq. for many transactions in regards to my business, including contracts, closings, demand letters, and litigation matters. Very professional and not the kind of attorney that bills for no reason. She was very reasonable.
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08 Jul, 2018 by Sherra
Ms. Rodriguez has exceeded my expectations in my custody case. I’ve been in a lengthy custody’s battle for a few years and have been through multiple attorneys. She has helped me more than all of them combined, all with a compassionate heart. Ms. Rodriguez took my case with no problem and has been flexible with me and payments. I’m a single mother of five, and am on a tight budget and she has worked with me. Knowing these cases can be lengthy she understands it’s not always easy and has accommodated. Not just a great attorney because of her moral character but also by her legal talents. She’s always been on top of things with my case and has never let me down. All while showing concern for the actual outcome for my family, not just my case. More than I can say for my previous attorneys. Hopefully I don’t have to hire her again but if that time ever comes she’ll be the first person I contact.
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27 Mar, 2017 by Cassie moore
Her ad stated she knew the financial hardships of single mothers, and that she would work payments. when I was finally able to get her to respond to my messages and called back she needed all the money down so I did not hire her
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14 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
He should be disbarred. He took my money and did absolutely NOTHING!! He even told me on the phone that "at least you will have your kids for a few more months before you lose them". I was appalled by his service. He sat in court and did NOTHING to defend me while I was badgered on the stand by my husband's attorney and was not even prepared in court. The judge had to call his name 3x in court to give me my eyeglasses. I think he was taking a nap. Lol... I lost my kids due to his negligence. He will take your money and run. Don't hire him, he is the WORST!!!
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30 May, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Roberts helped me through alot pertaining to my divorce, when my ex caused me grief he was there to inform me on what I needed to do and helped me with my divorce with confidence. He was knowledgeable in his field and always willing to learn from his clients. I feel i have developed a close relationship with him because he always helped me even when he did not have too! I recommend Mr. Roberts to all I know because he is very reasonable in price and great in repersentation.
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07 Mar, 2019 by John
She charged me $325 for a one hour consultation. She did not listen to my concerns, she was rude, she didn't thank me and she never followed up with me. Strange and extremely unprofessional.
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15 Oct, 2015 by Dee
Sarah handled my divorce in a very professional manner. She was sensitive to my needs and respected my desire to handle the divorce in a positive way. Sarah was at all times kind, thoughtful and responsive to my questions and concerns. I am very pleased, as well, with the treatment I received from everyone in the office.
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03 Jan, 2017 by Alexandra
The service you get from the Perettine Law Firm is simply the best. If you want fast results from a professional, calm and diligent attorney then this firm is for you. My child support and alimony payments weren’t coming through and with one letter the Perettine Law Firm has everything reinstated. They are skilled mediators in delicate cases of family law and I couldn’t be happier with their work. I would recommend them to anyone.
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11 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired this lawyer over 3 years ago and with no kids involved and no business////// going thru divorce and im stil married , Don't use them they just milk you along and take your money !!!!!
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01 May, 2019 by Dwane
Awful! Did not prepare well, did not argue my side well...basically just “went through the motions” and charged a LOT for loosing my case. She may be ok with titles, etc., but family law was way out of her league.
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07 Mar, 2012 by Terrie
Attorney Donahue helped my family with a title search on a piece of real property and gave us advice on some lien issues. She and her assistant were honest with us and explained our rights and offered us possible solutions.
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3.0
2 Reviews
19 Oct, 2022 by Claudia a.
I hired Chris W. Rumbold seven months into my divorce, as little had been accomplished by my previous attorney, which made me frustrated and scared. Chris turned my case around and delivered my divorce in only four months. I am so grateful to Chris for his professionalism, legal acumen, and empathy. Chris and his legal assistant Yami genuinely care for their clients. I will forever be grateful to Chris for helping me through one of the toughest times of my life. His staff, Yami and Kim, are professional, helpful, and always available to answer any questions I had. Chris took time to explain the caselaw to me, so that I could make informed decisions. His calm and friendly demeanor always helped reduce stress before a hearing. He is always prepared in court and went the extra mile to deliver the results I hoped for. I wholeheartedly recommend Chris W. Rumbold and his office.
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24 Oct, 2020 by Michael
I hired Mr. Rumbold to represent me for post-divorce actions. After completing the first hearing, he dragged his feet and delayed, avoiding brining any other issues to a hearing for two years until I switched attorneys. He was very rude at times and was more focused on the billing than on moving my issues forward.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Gustavo
Absolutely the worst attorney I’ve ever dealt with . All those negative reviews you are reading and 100 percent correct . She is not an attorney she is a sale person . As soon as she collected her money she neglected and evaded total communication when all I needed was a release consent form . Her response being that her job is done . When I finally got a hold of her she sounded so frustrated and rude and hanged up the phone ! The worst unprofessional attorney ever . Due to her actions and neglect on the final remains of my case I will be submitting a complaint to the Florida bar and let them handle it .
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02 Nov, 2022 by Magaly de la rosa aguilera
Mahnífica atención, muy profesionales .
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23 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
He gets nothing done and acts like you work for him, poor communication skills. Buyer beware!
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18 May, 2024 by Anonymous
After almost a year later and about 15k spent I got no where! He would file depositions then cancel them and waste everyone time and most importantly my very own hard earned money! I should have known when an attorney tells you to cash out your child’s college fund to pay him I should have ran then! Run run run! His sweet talking and promises will make you think he has your best interest meanwhile he doesn’t all he wants is your money!
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16 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
I was referred from a friend to go with Matthew. Best choice because he is a great lawyer. He’s honest and let’s you know the real deal. My money has lasted me a little 7 months since I gave my retainer. He works with you, is understanding, and won’t try to suck all your money. Thanks man !
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25 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
He handled my divorce.Beginning was somewhat okay mind you the case should of been way over by now as we were only married for a short time and do not share anything but the kids and it just keeps getting drug out by the other party and they keep requesting more things and trying to dig up more things to try to get money and the fact that my ex has not been honest about so many things I believe has helped gain sympathy in getting what she wants.Had come to an agreement and thought things were signed but found out later on the other party did not sign.I just want it over with. I'm sure my case looks horrible to some people but not knowing the whole story it's very easy to form an opinion as I feel this is what this lawyer has done.Does not give me options as what he can do for me it's just give the other party what they want.Seems he has been more helpful to my soon to be ex than to me.Most lawyers are there for you whether right or wrong I did not get this from this lawyer.Had I been able to start over with another lawyer I would have of but that would have been costly.I did consult with another lawyer who seemed to have been more understandin gand helpful.I wish I would of listened in the beginning when a few people told me it didn't seem like this lawyer was being too helpful or doing all he can for me.I would not recommend this attorney.
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18 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
I used Dennis a few years back for a custody case. Not only was he responsive and helpful but after a long battle I was awarded full custody of my daughter. In the two-three year battle Dennis never once dropped the ball and was a bulldog in the courtroom. I would recommend Dennis 100 times over and will not hesitate to hire him again if need be.
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23 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I've been using Dennis for 2 years to assist with a divorce and child support. I don't live in Florida so it is important for good communications. It takes multiple emails and phone calls to get a response from Dennis. When he does respond usually the information is not helpful. I've been trying to have my child support modified for 6 months now and there has been no progress and no communication from Dennis. I feel that my money may have been spent better elsewhere.
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02 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I’m not going to write a long winded review. If you’re looking to retain an experienced, knowledgeable, and personable attorney…DO NOT HIRE THIS ONE!!!! Run away as fast as you can. You can thank me later.
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04 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Be careful when hiring this attorney. Not only did I hear her yelling at my 74 year old disabled father over him not being able to use the internet, she never took the time to understand his case. She was good at billing close to $20,000. for 1 meeting and a few motions. She never understood the case and didnt try. He was never able to call her and she didnt place a a lot of effort.
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28 Oct, 2020 by Aindrea
MS. Naylor was so wonderful to me. I can sometimes be difficult, I get busy and forget to email back. Her patience means the world to me as I'm trying to get through this in one piece. She gave me great advice and understood why I chose the decisions I did . she really kept me sane through it all.
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29 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
“This is because a military divorce requires special knowledge of laws that don't apply to civilian divorces. The legal assistance office can assist with various legal issues, including divorce”.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
My client whom is from the Caribbean was displeased on how she presented her case to the judge. Send Ms Gayle , some vanilla gift cards , she is a scammer I would never recommend her.
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25 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
She is not an appellate lawyer , I was confused on how she would of handled my case.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Christina to represent me on my divorce, and the person representing me was her paralegal which quit after they took my $1.500 . Christina then assured me that she was going to take over and she didn't. They wouldn't answer my calls and her secretary, a little cuban was very rude. They promised to help me, and I trusted them, they knew I was very vulnerable and I was in pain and needed some help. They took advantage of my pain. I just hope that she could sleep at night, with her dirty conscious. But what goes around comes around. Please don't fall for her bull crap, especially her little puppy of a secretary.
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15 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Hired Christina for a divorce case and she was completely rude, negligent, and inefficient. She never had time to return my calls, emails, and major concerns. DO NOT make the same mistake I did and RUN!
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05 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I do not recommend her office!!! Her paralegal is very rude. I hired her over 2 years ago and I still haven’t gotten anywhere in my case. Always an excuse for everything. Absolutely impossible to get ahold of her office, they don’t answer your call or emails. Very unprofessional!!!!
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19 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
I wish we knew what we were getting into with this attorney, and had I known, I would have put on my Nike shoes and run as far as I could. He abandoned us in the middle of our case shortly after we paid his bill. We were seriously disappointed with his performance.
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02 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Awful ! Highly do not recommend this looser. And I only had a phone consult. RUN FAST!
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17 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Grimm is the biggest ripoff lawyer I have ever encounter I ought to sue the man
Took my money and then drop the case
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19 Apr, 2015 by Jerry
I was told by several people to speak with 3-4 lawyer offices before making my final decision, I wish I would of listened to this advice. Mr Thomas started out as if he was very interested in my case but that changed quickly after the payment was made, I even had to remind him of when the depositions were being done I was informed that they wouldn't be able to mail out the subpoenas until they received an additional $4 .75 for postage after giving him thousands of dollars, and many other problems along the way. My case is done, I am just writing this for others. This has been a very tough time and this office made it even worse than it had to be.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Jessica
I hired Mr. Remsen to finish a family law case I’d been fighting on my own for a year. He did exactly what I asked him to do and got the case close in one hearing, a couple motions. I paid him $5000, which I was under the impression was a retainer. Out of that only $2000 was used. When the case was closed I assumed I’d receive the remaining $3000. After months of emailing the firm I was told that I wouldn’t be receiving that money back, it was their money. So basically I he made out like a bandit on my case. BEWARE. Read the contract! At the time of hiring him I was extremely distressed and basically at the end of my rope with my case. I was tricked. I was never TOLD that money couldn’t be returned. It was snuck into the paperwork. Very disappointing. He did what get what I needed done so that’s why he’s getting two stars but I worn you. Don’t hire this man thinking you won’t be robbed.
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24 Nov, 2020 by Robert
Now that i know Mr. López was disciplined in 2018, i will push it again to have his licensed removed and won’t stop till they do. This law firm is the worst and has costed me a lot of money to clean up their mess. Call any law firm in fort myers and they will tell you about these people. Not to mention they have a felon that handles your personal info! Thomas Heller was arrested twice just in Lee county, and one was a violation of probation. Joshua Lopez is the worst attorney you could even try to hire. Look up the history of the firm and you will learn that he is not the only one who has been in trouble. But i will push to get my money back and to push hard to have his license removed so that no one else gets tied in with these people. They are terrible and i would strongly advise you to go elsewhere.
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09 May, 2018 by Anonymous
My husband hired this law firm because I was fined with tow tickets for the amount of more than 400 dollars. This lawyer went to the first hearing and seen that I was found guilty, he requested another hearing without informning me about this fact. I learnet about it only because I called the Lee county Clerk. Well, the second hearing was on May 3rd, bt he judge ( according to what Jessica told me) cancelled the hearing and closed the case. Instead of informing me the same day that I had to pay the fine immediately, I was said 4 days later, only because I called the office differnet times, that I had to pay the fine. Finally, when my husband called tehe clerk, he were charged 23 dollars for each fine ( late fee) puls taxes and the total was 499 dollars. I called the lawfirm, to say them that they should pay the 46 dollars for late fee, but Mr. Lopez did not call me back.
Do not loose your money, this fine cost me about one 700 dollars,
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06 Oct, 2017 by Cici
Absolutely Great attorney
Just got a fine no points on my license and no driving school I am very happy
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28 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Mrs. Roshkind misrepresent my spouse in our divorce, not only over charging him for her terrible services but help my case tremendously. Thank you for your great service!
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03 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Hiring Ms. Roschkind was one of the worst business decision in my life. Over one year into the process and thousands of dollars later, I had to fire her for incompetence and brief a new lawyer. She does not think strategically, does not plan ahead and predict and was reactive to the opposition lawyer and put us on the defensive through the whole time. She is particularly fee focused and pusillanimous in an industry known for its voracity. If looking for an attorney, proceed with extreme caution.
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17 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Great experience. Hired attorney Roshkind after firing first 2 divorce attorneys who were unable to get my divorce settled "fairly" or with any financial support after almost a year of mediations. Attorney Roshkind and associates were able to get a much better settlement for me as well as the alimony that I had been told would be "impossible" by the other 2 firms. Hiring attorney Roshkind was the best decision I ever made.
Highly recommend!
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05 Oct, 2019 by Anna
Mrs Schantz didn't even bother to show up for my day in court. Her office called later & said she tried but got stuck in traffic. No one called me or replied to my voicemails until after the appearance I made ALONE. She didn't have the decency to call me herself.
I needed a simple name change, I paid $2500, exuberant to file paperwork I had already completed. The judge asked where my lawyer was, "I don't know your honor," "Well, that's not a professional lawyer at all" was the reply
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29 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
Non-responsive, evasive, slow, non-committal, etc. She and her team were USELESS to me during my divorce and after 3 years of her dawdling I finally fired her and hired another attorney. Save your money and your time...do not hire her or her husband.
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20 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
I would not want anyone to ever use this attorney.During my divorce she never followed up on the case ,was never available or out of town . Ended up costing me 3000 dollars for o work done. I had to hire another attorney. Please, save yourself the headache and not another problem to your life. good luck.
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17 Sep, 2015 by Vernon
She did both my wife's and my will and made many errors. The errors were partly due to her making "assumptions" (her words). I hire a lawyer to give professional legal advice, not make assumptions!
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05 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
She gave zero effort to my case and right before any and all court appearances she would charge me more money. She didn’t know anything about my case during any face to face appointments and did not prepare me for my court hearings.
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10 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
She took my case pro bono, Se was inexperienced and she got frozen when went to court. So I lost everything, she didn’t talk to defend my case. Conclusion I ended with nothing. She ruin my life because after my divorce I hade a very hard time financially.I don’t recommend her to nobody she is not a good lawyer at all.
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16 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Holly doesn't reply to emails she doesn't keep you in the loop about your case until the day before the due date. If you hear from her its to ask for documents you gave her weeks ago. She charges for the same services over and over again. Holly is always scrambling at the last minute. She seems to be afraid of trial and scared to upset the opposing lawyer. I should have done my home work before I hired her. She has really bad reviews and a lack of experience. How can you be an attorney when you don't like conflict. Holly would always threatened to pull out if you asked her about the case - she would tell you "if your not happy you can get another lawyer" hmmm after you have taken thousands of dollars. What a great way to make money!!
DO NOT HIRE HOLLY !!!!
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01 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired R. Rall and she was nice until I signed Retainer. Then the case never have been resolved. She blamed the system and scheduling conflicts. This was just a child custody case which should have been easy. No action at all, no communication.
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08 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Don’t hire her unless you plan to spend $50k or more in billable hours with little results. She has a temper and if you express your frustration with the legal process she will retaliate and leave you to represent yourself without any remorse.
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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.
