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11 Mar, 2021 by Earnest
This firm handled my divorce very professional during the Covid pandemic, they stood stern and didn't let the other side run the show, all the way to the finale day If I didn't understand something they took the time to explain the legal terms and what it meant in layman's terms I always felt stronger then my spouse attorney. And always felt like I had the best firm in the metroplex
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14 Oct, 2020 by Barb
Samantha and Justin are an incredible team! I have found them to be honest, fair and sincere in helping solve the issues related to a bitter divorce. I feel heard. I feel important to them. I don't feel they are trying to bill me with unnecessary hours. They are incredibly prompt when returning phone calls or emails. I highly recommend them. You won't be disappointed.
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10 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
I made the decision to hire Sisemore Law Firm in late April 2020 based on a performance-based referral for Justin Sisemore personally. I am devastated and heartbroken to say that it ended up being a really bad decision for myself and my baby boy.
My ex-fiancé and I separated in April 2020. Due to a rough separation and a lot of hostility, I hired Justin Sisemore to protect myself and my new born baby. I was afraid that my ex could take the baby from me at any point so I needed temporary orders set immediately. I also needed child support to be ordered as I was not working due to my newborn and COVID had just started.
I had very limited resources and was able to come up with the funds to pay the retainer fee.
A couple of months later, I was kept growing anxious as things were being delayed, counsel kept believing the opposing side instead of me, temporary orders were not set (and my ex kept reminding me that he could take the baby at any point), it was hard to communicate with the counsel as they were working from home and did not have direct numbers to reach them and Justin Sisemore had issued my case to an associate attorney. The associate attorney’s admin rarely had answers and the associate attorney was always busy.
All in all, $17,000 later, temporary orders were just being finalized. We had not even got to mediation or scheduling the final trial. Again, this is not a divorce case. I simply needed a custody schedule worked out and child support established.
After receiving a bill(for $4,200 plus and an additional request for $1,500 for trust account funding) 3 weeks after I had just payed an additional $3,500(which I thought would get us through the temporary hearing), I withdrew from Sisemore Law Firm Services as I was getting more in debt than being helped with the extremely high and unreasonable costs of Sisemore Law Firm.
Almost 5 Months after hiring Sisemore Law Firm, my bill is $17K and the only thing accomplished was getting through the temporary hearing which established custody schedule and child support for the next 3 months. Again, my ex and I were not married so formal divorce complications did not exist.
Now, I need assistance to continue the process but have completely run out of financial resources. I thought being left by the man whom I’ve loved for years with a newborn baby was the worst thing but it turns out that..
Being left by the partner that I loved for years with a newborn baby and now, $17,000 in attorney fees with no permanent results, and in much financial distress is much worse. I do not wish this upon any single mama(or dad).
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03 Jul, 2023 by Rosie
Stay clear of this law firm!! They are liars, crooks, & thieves. I was charged well over $10,000 for Cathy to do absolutely nothing on my family law case. It was like she was representing the other party instead of me as her client. Not to mention she never showed up to court on time and she lied and told me she was at court when she really wasn’t (as I heard a phone call where she called her paralegal to see if she told me Cathy wasn’t at court yet because she had already told me she was there.) also she started that phone conversation with her paralegal in this manner “What’s up b***hes” very unprofessional! Also orders were served to the wrong address which was their rightful mistake after I gave her paralegal all the proper information she needed to ensure she could serve orders to the right person/address and it was still served to the wrong person and you guessed it, I was still charged for all this. Not to mention they are still charging for phone calls when I literally talked to her paralegal and was told Cathy would review my billing statement since this law office has done absolutely nothing for my case. Oh and get this my case was DISMISSED and how did I find out? I had to hire another attorney after I felt this law office was dropping the ball left & right and wasn’t doing what was in the best interest for me and the new hired attorney found all this out, got me my dismissal court paperwork all within 24 HOURS!! Please stay away from this crook of a lawyer and law office and incompetent staff. I pray this law office gets their karma for taking advantage of innocent folks and ripping them off with their greed of “attorney” if you all want an exceptional attorney whom will not just take your money just because they can and want someone whom will really fight for your case e-mail me, I can give you all the best attorney ever. Also once I hired this new attorney to pick up the ball where Borum law firm dropped it and it was discovered my whole case was dismissed this new attorney even REFUNDED all my money!
Take my word STAY AWAY FROM BORUM law firm!! I hope this saves someone from spending thousands of dollars like I did for absolutely nothing!! Also I will be reporting to the BBB and contact the licensing board regarding this law firm.
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23 Jun, 2017 by Robert
I hired "Cat" for my child custody case, which was a very sophisticated case. She knew what experts and other lawyers that my case needed! It was a very tough time for me as many times my child was in danger and I need answers fast, and I got them extremely fast. I am very thankful to her and her staff for working so hard with my case and doing an absolutely fantastic job! I would recommend her to anyone that needs a family lawyer in DFW and would tell them she is the best you can get!!
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23 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
HIRE THIS ATTORNEY IF YOU NEED TO WIN!
I never got married with divorce in mind but it happens...and to me it happened in a very big way! My spouse immediately went for the throat after I caught the cheating, asking for money and custody claiming everything in a divorce war chest including physical abuse, mental abuse, drug abuse and other criminal activities. Needless to say I was terrified when the waterfall of legal threats began to drown me and my business. I even spent a night in jail due to false accusations.
Get ready for tough love and facts during the first meeting! This lawyer is more that qualified, is tough as nails and will give it to you strait in order to prepare you for battle. She was very prepared for my case, empathetic, always available, returned calls and I never had to question a bill.
She will skillfully negotiate with the opposition and make you feel protected when you are standing in front of the judge.
Ultimately I got more than what I needed because we were prepared. My life was put back on course and I have a great relationship with my child.
Catherine Borum is the BEST attorney you can have in a that horrible situation. Don't wait until they fire the first shot.
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25 Apr, 2023 by Christian
I worked with Malorie Crosley for about a year on my case. The process, albeit long, was always clearly spelled out for me. I was also impressed with the timely responses of my inquiries. The process was very unfamiliar to me, and Kim and Malorie were always very helpful to answer all of my questions and keep me comfortable throughout the whole process. They provided sound advice and were able to navigate the complex process very efficiently. I will definitely use their services again.
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26 Jan, 2022 by Russ
Having Malorie by my side gave me the confidence and assurance I desperately needed during the most difficult and chaotic time in my life.
She, and her team, were always available to thoroughly answer my constant questions, and in language I could understand.
They always made me felt “seen” during the numerous times situations turned emotional, while at the same time, reassured by their calming expertise on a path forward.
Time after time, that expertise was challenged, and without fail, was found to be correct. They proved to me that I could trust them to always tell me the correct, and up-to-date information on matters they are experts in, and just as importantly, when to seek different counsel on matters they are not.
I truly cannot express how much I appreciate all Malorie and her team did for me.
So, if you find yourself in a situation where you need someone to be your champion, please call them and see for yourself. I am so glad I did.
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01 Dec, 2021 by Leroy
I worked with Malorie Amalia Crosley on writing up a pre-nuptial agreement, and she was swift and put into writing everything I needed to be done. I appreciated the consultation and the help she provided me when I needed it. I would recommend her as a lawyer as she did everything I needed to be done promptly for a reasonable cost.
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07 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
We had used Ms. Kern in the past for a work place issue. She was very informative as to where we stood in the matter legally. Gave us options in the advice along with her personal recommendation. We appreciated her prompt and informative response to the mutil-level questions we had. For those reasons is why we called her again when a family matter came up. We need quick answers/ legal advice on a pressing matter that had minors involved and made herself available for just that. We appreciated that she respected the urgency and made the effort to evaluate the case before deeming it as, "call you back later in the week" or "email me and i will return in by next week.". For us customer service is most important and she hits the mark!
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07 Mar, 2014 by Jennifer
I would absolutely recommend. Alexis to my family, friends, and to any one that is in need of legal services. My consultation with Mrs. Kern was knowledgeable about anything that I had concerns or was unaware of. I felt very pleased with Mrs. Kern's professionalism and concern to help my make the right decisions for my case. Mrs. Kern was able to work with me and financial situation and other legal fees. What I loved the most about the whole experience is that she actually listened and asked questions before she gave me her input. I have had other lawyers and usually resulted in quick short answers. and bad attitudes. Mrs. kern is worth every penny.
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02 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I do not recommend this law firm. I was told when I started the probate for my mother's estate that it would cost anywhere from $5K to $6K. Months later I was told by Mr. Leonard that it would be closer to $8K. Now the price ends up being almost $11K!!! I was very clear about what the estate involved upfront so I don't understand why the price was so high. I was provided a 15 page bill when I questioned the charge. They have a portal to use as a way to communicate and upload documents. There were a few times I asked questions and I had to beg for an answer (or they just ignored me). Find another attorney unless you want to pay a crazy amount of money for minimal service.
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01 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Kind. Generous. Educational. Patient. Absolutely wonderful. Blessed to know him.
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03 Feb, 2016 by Charles
I had a great experience with Bob Leonard and his knowledgable team--from Bob, himself, to his paralegal, as well as his office staff. Everyone is helpful and really cares about their clients. I also loved their online system that allowed me to interact with any of them 24/7 or to see what was going on with my case. I would definitely hire them again!
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24 Jul, 2023 by Amy
Nathan didn’t respond to emails or phone calls for months! I finally terminated him as my lawyer because I had no confidence in him at all. I requested half of the fees I had paid him to be returned because he did next to nothing, and he refused to give me any sort of refund. I do not recommend him at all!
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08 Nov, 2021 by Rickey hayes
06 Aug, 2019 by Misty
Mr Hatton took over my family issue and finished in a very short time what I waited years for with 2 separate attorneys who never seemed to be able to do it. He was very friendly and I would recommend to others!!!
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03 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Did a good job, saved me my hard earned bucks! My stinkin wife was trying to take me for every darn penny for a child that wasn’t even mine!
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17 Sep, 2021 by Evan evans
After wane settled my case for a Noncontested divorce he told me he would only cost 1200 he charged me then charge me again I spent over $5000 he went against his word a man is only as good as his word I would not recommend him
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24 Jun, 2021 by Shelita woods
17 May, 2024 by Audrey
Breanne took my retainer and RAN. She would take weeks to respond to a call or email, and constantly missed deadlines. She promised me she would lead me through this divorce and did the absolute opposite. I had to let her go due to her negligence and she refused to give me a refund. Please do yourself a favor and NEVER work with the Clark Law Firm.
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13 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Breanne was thorough with everything! She is really good at what she does. 10/10 will hire again if I need to!
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11 Oct, 2021 by Jessica
Breanne was my attorney, and myself and my children are so happy for her work. My ex husband was refusing to see the children and was never placed on child support. To top it off a long string of verbal and electronic abuse toward me and my many attempts to resolve the children needs such as visitation and help in buying clothes, we’re always met with flat out bullying, from him.
She was brilliant in every Proceedings and In communicating to the court exactly what my family needed. I always felt understand, well informed in what to expect and how things would play out. She was an absolute blessing. Her knowledge of the law, but above all else her personality and kind nature , gave me an irreplaceable strength in the journey. I never felt judged as I shared the emails and text messages, that I was embarrassed to share. Rather she was kind and validated that my kids needed more. Because of her knowledge of the law and guidance, I spoke up for myself for the first time. In truth I was always acting tough in regards to my ex husband but would end up always giving in to his bulling because of intimidation or just sheer exhaustion. Breanne’s empathy gave a safe environment to seek help and get results. Everything we asked for we got in the case. And much more. God showed up and showed out as the saying goes, or in other words Breanne Clark has been an absolute blessing. Writing this brings me to tears, because it’s hard to explain how invisible I felt , compared to now, how much mine and my children’s lives have changed for the better. We’re infinitely grateful. It was a roller coaster no question. But now there’s finally some peace.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Jorge carrillo
13 Sep, 2024 by Julie desario
I definitely DO NOT recommend. The communication is not good. I would send an email to ask questions, If the email was not replied to within 2 to 3 days, I would send another email trying to follow up, Then I was charged $87.50 for every email that I had sent to get a response back once. Upfront costs are not clear, Any questions I have or even if they send me an email I am charged for it. I just got billed $600 and I thought everything was done. Looking at the reasons for the $600 was for to close my case as well as answer any other questions I might have. I definitely do not recommend as this was not a pleasant experience.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Scott siegel
My first consultation, the gentleman was straightforward, Very honest, didn’t look at it like a paycheck and gave me extremely good advice. I’m very thankful.
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02 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I hope folks read this before anyone makes the grave mistake of hiring this firm before shopping around, like my in-laws did. I’m not an attorney in Texas, but I am an attorney in another state, and I can say that what has been described to me about this firm is egregious.
First, they seem to have a paralegal who doesn’t understand that she’s not a lawyer (despite the fact that she’s apparently never been to law school and is not a member of the Bar) and she may be engaging in the unauthorized practice of law.
Next, this firm doesn’t appear to do the bare minimum right out of the gate in civil dependency cases or family law cases, such as ensuring visitation with children.
Last, but most certainly not least, it appears they take cases they’re not even remotely competent to handle, such as felony criminal defense cases. If true, this would be a violation of the ethical obligation lawyers have to provide competent representation. This firm, by all appearances, cares only about collecting your money and not about actually advocating for their clients.
If you need an excellent criminal defense lawyer, talk to Cofer & Luster.
Even if these Tumo Law people do have some experience, it doesn’t look like they’re any good. If you need a family law attorney, you may want to shop around if you care to have high-quality representation.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Robert
This guy is lazy and incompetent. Didn’t a do a thing for me in my divorce that I couldn’t do myself. He didn’t fight for me, all he did was acquiesce to my ex’s lawyer as if he just didn’t care. I wouldn’t recommend this POS to anyone. Spend your money on a good lawyer, not this joke.
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20 Aug, 2021 by Bmw
I wish I had a rave review to leave. I hired Tyler at a very challenging time in my life. After talking, hiring and telling him what I was wanting to accomplish in my custody battle and what I already had custody wise going in was nothing compared to what I got coming out. I got less than I initially had to begin with all because I trusted someone that was more knowledgeably than I on the issue. Please know exactly what your signing for in depth before you sign because I didn't and now I'm stuck for a year with my current orders and cant do a thing to get it modified now that I know exactly what they mean. Oh and good luck with him returning messages or calls.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Riste anastasov
I had and some still have over 15 lawsuits our most curent one is Richys ofice
1st Very skilled attorney
2.nd In record time doctors appointments and treatments done.
3rd staff members best two but efficient and ready to talk and help us out in full ..
4th i can't emagine why is this attorney is not TOP DFW attorney he is TOP DFW attorney.
Best regards more aspirations and lots of success and you have pur support buddy be the best out there people need to hear from you...
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14 Oct, 2024 by Kevin allen
I had an issue did not what to do! I spoke with Mr. Rich and he was wonderful. He gave me great advice was very helpful. Told me step by step of what I need to do. Great lawyer firm highly recommended.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Shaun greywall
I was involved in an auto accident where an inattentive driver pulled a U-turn across traffic striking and totaling my classic corvette and injuring my back. At first, I tried to work directly with their insurance but it was evident after two phone calls that they were not willing to compensate me for the value of my car nor my injuries. I contacted Rich at Trial Tribe and he walked me thru the process of obtaining a reimbursement for the actual value of my car. In addition, he provided recommendations for rehabilitation and examination services and obtained a fair compensation for my injuries. I am grateful to have the tribe on my side and fully endorse Rich and his staff for the outstanding service they provided
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07 Jan, 2021 by C i
Ms. Barr did the impossible, she won my husband full custody of his children in the State of Texas!!! Ms. Barr is the second attorney we have hired, (first attorney was with a completely different law firm) and I am so thankful she was recommended to us! She did everything she said she would do, and kept us informed every step of the way. We were never made to feel like "just a client", and her team consisting of Amanda Rowan, and Summer Chappell, were just as helpful and informative as Ms. Barr was. I cannot sing Ms. Barr's praises loud enough, she truly was a Godsend to us during this very difficult time!
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17 Oct, 2018 by Joyce
I was lied to, paid lots of money to her, signed papers to be filed into court which was NEVER DONE she led me on for approx 3 years and in the end nothing, never stepped into court the last year and a half but continued to charge me. When i fired her she sent me a bill for more money. She received approx 13,000.00 from me.
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21 Jul, 2015 by Conor
After meeting with a few different attorneys, I met with Genevieve Barr and was not only put at ease, but was more than impressed with Genevieve's approach and direction. I hired her on the spot. My daughter was then taken out of state against my will and within 36 hours, I had three Texas judgments signed and ordered for my daughter to be returned back to me immediately. I cannot explain in words the joy that this brought me as a father. In the time since, we have been preparing for our upcoming court date and I feel that I will be represented in the best manner possible. Genevieve also has an all-star crew that made me feel comfortable, informed, and really put forth a huge effort to make things happen quickly for mine and my daughter's sake. I sincerely appreciate all that they have done for me and my daughter over the last month. If anyone out there is considering a family law attorney - I highly recommend Genevieve Barr and her outstanding staff with Bailey & Galyen.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Amaris castillo
Personally, I would not recommend Sylvia. She was very helpful initially, as I was recommended her by a close friend. I paid her retainer to her in cash, then I was informed that she moved to a new firm shortly after hiring her, then was asked for another retainer with her new firm. Not sure if this is normal, but the way I was communicated with about the situation by the new firm wasn't very professional and quite rude.
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07 Jan, 2020 by Leittia knight
Sylvia is an amazing attorney! She is very knowledgeable in regards to Family law. Sylvia is very easy to talk to and compassionate as well. Don't be fooled though, she is tough and will go to bat for her clients. I am very pleased and will use her in the future.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired her back in 2020 and switched counsel after our first hearing. She didn't prepare me at all, I had to directly request the judge for drug tests because she didn't after telling me she would. She argued with everything I said at every phone call. She ate through 90% of my retainer for absolutely nothing. I'm so thankful I switched attorneys and got someone that CARED about children enough to try to keep them safe. We won!
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26 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired Shannon to represent me in a contested case and do not recommend her. She does not follow through and says she will do something many times and then not do it. I wish I could charge people what she does with that little effort. She did not communicate nor prepare me for court, tell me where to go and showed up late. She is not reliable and you will go to court-have to advocate to get in front of the judge and for her to actually file to reset cases. If something is too hard she won't fight for it. Do not hire her!
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21 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I never write reviews, but I have to try and save someone else from a huge mistake.
Went with Shannon after a recommendation and was very disappointed. She talks a real big game, but that's all it is, talk. She never knew the facts about my case, constantly told me incorrect information, and was only interested in billing hours. Especially for small business owners, stay far away, she does not understand even the basics. After almost 6 months of billing me with no work done, I had to work directly with opposing counsel and my ex to nail down child support. Turns out Shannon was the delay and I was paying her for it. The communication with her and her paralegal was absolutely horrible, would not receive updates for weeks/months. In the short time since I let her go as my attorney I've already regained custody time and been paid back attorney fees, all on my own. She made my divorce worse and more complicated, the exact opposite of what a good attorney should do.
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11 May, 2023 by Tony
• ***I WOULD STEER CLEAR OF SEAN IF I HAD IT TO DO OVER AGAIN*** Sean was hostile and disrespectful to me during my divorce proceedings and I was shocked because he was supposed to be my advocate during a difficult time in my life. In addition, Sean came up with higher child support payments for me than the opposing party attorney did and when I re-calculated the child support payments, the opposing party lawyer ended up accepting my calculations. Sean told me about a deadline for a response on reading and responding to documents from the opposing party and then called me to yell at me and berate me when I texted him that I had emailed him a full response. I did ALL of the reading and work on my case. Sean was hard to contact and the opposing party lawyer even accused me of not having a lawyer because Sean was so hard to contact. The worst part of it all is that I had a few very reasonable requests for changes to the divorce decree that the opposing party had crafted and had sent them to Sean to relay to the opposing party lawyer. Sean never relayed my comments to the opposing party lawyer and merely told the opposing party lawyer that I wouldn't budge and that we would have to go to court to settle the issues. The opposing party contacted me directly, outside of both lawyers and asked why in the world I would want to go to court and spend a lot more money?! I replied that I certainly did not want to go to court and I sent her the email I had sent to Sean with my requests for changes to the divorce decree. She read it and found the changes I requested to be perfectly reasonable and ordered her attorney to make the changes I requested via an email which she cc'd me on. Her exact words were “The requests Tony has made are reasonable, I don't know why Tony's lawyer did not pass them on to you.” I normally give out great reviews to bless people. In this case, I felt like it was my duty to warn fellow people who might be in a desperate legal situation. It is a horrible thing to feel like your attorney, who is supposed to be your advocate, feels like an enemy.
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25 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
This man is not a nice guy. He will treat you second class. Read the reviews, read other reviews. You will see the difference.
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17 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
I will say Mr.Lynch isn't very good at communication. I will wait two weeks and than email or call to check to see what is going on. He will update I have filed this and that, Still waiting on a court date. Now I am not sure if Family Court are short staffed or not but it pretty crazy the Criminal Courts is throwing court dates as fast as you can blink. I just want to know why it take so long! I will advise you to start checking in with your paying customers! Updates maybe not once a week but EVERY TWO WEEKS WILL BE APPRECIATED! We are antsy parents who are just wanting this burden to be handle and over with!
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22 Jun, 2022 by Tommy dowden
Do not go to trial with this lawyer. The opposing party ran away with the show and I lost my child. Any objections we're disregarded by the da and the judge let it happen. Other times I told lawyer to object and she didnt. 3 days trial over 10 grand later and the results don't add up. Sorry kayla, but im deeply unsatisfied with you overall.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
She Doesn't Let You Talk She Tells You To Shut Up She Doesn't Give You A Chance At Anything I Was Put In Jail For Contempt Of Court For A Child Support Payment That's Not What It Is She Has No Soul No Passion She Favors Race She Doesn't Care If Your Sick Or Dying She Is Going To Make An Excuse She Lied And Said I Was Belligerent At Court So She Can Sentence Me Yet It Was About A Payment She Claimed I Missed There Is No Communication It's Like This Lady Heart Is Broken She Needs a Hug Or Go Back To Being A Lawyer It's A Power Move
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17 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I had an incredibly disappointing experience with Judge Cherami Jenkins during a recent legal proceeding. The mistreatment I endured from Paula Crockett, Stacy Roundtree, and Judge Jenkins reached such an extent that I felt compelled to record our conversations. Despite diligently providing all required information before the hearing, Paula and Stacy misplaced my documents, causing unnecessary delays.
During the call, I faced unwarranted criticism about my current wages, with Stacy continuously expressing doubts about the sustainability of my income and making baseless insinuations about my ability to support my family. Paula accused me of neglecting to provide bank statements, a requirement that was never communicated or necessary. Despite Paula's initial struggle to locate this information, I took the initiative to download six months of bank statements during the call.
Both Paula and Judge Cherami Jenkins demonstrated a lack of understanding of self-employment, insinuating that it allows for tax manipulation. They delved into inappropriate inquiries about proprietary business information, including travel expenses, payments to guides, hotel costs, and profit margins. Their criticism extended to questioning me about refunds issued in 2020 and 2021, overlooking the fact that such details are typically handled by professionals like my bookkeeper and CPA.
The recorded conversations exposed a condescending tone and biased opinions directed towards me. Stacy's relentless push for increased support payments, along with inappropriate comments about my attire, added to the unprofessionalism. Judge Cherami Jenkins, unfortunately, mirrored the negativity established by Stacy, leading me to believe that Stacy had influenced her opinion before she even joined the call.
In addition to this mistreatment, I discovered an overpayment of child support by over $7,000 according to the OAG. Seeking clarification, I received conflicting information from Paula and Stacy, exacerbating my frustration. The treatment I received, coupled with evident racial undertones and biases, is entirely unjustified and demands immediate attention.
Furthermore, the rescheduling of the court case and the subsequent request for additional discovery, despite all documents being submitted at the initial hearing, indicate a lack of consistency. Although I promptly provided the requested bank and credit card statements, the court's insistence on additional tax returns, especially for 2023, which won't be finalized before the hearing, raises questions about the court's fairness and procedural integrity.
During a discussion with Judge Cherami Jenkins, her advice to present all available documents raised the question of why this inclusive approach wasn't employed during the initial hearing. Despite presenting all available documents at that time, the court seems to have shifted its expectations, creating further frustration and undermining confidence in the judicial process.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Myboointexas
I cannot express how pleased I am with this judge. She truly advocates for the children. She will forever have my support. I absolutely cannot wait to lobby to keep her in office.
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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.
