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Lisa S. Trail, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Frederick, MD with 22 reviews
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44,59
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
19 Reviews
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5.0
3 Reviews
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02 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I am very thankful to have met Ms. Lisa Trail. I was in desperate need of legal assistance for my family situation, and she helped me through everything. Thanks to her compassion, professionalism, knowledge, and assistance. I was able to get the legal help I needed. I am forever grateful to Ms. Lisa Trail and would highly recommend her to anyone!
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21 Feb, 2024 by Bob
Lisa was extremely helpful throughout my divorce process. While this was a “mutual consent” divorce with no minor children or alimony issues, it was a relief to have a resource such as Lisa to guide me throughout the process. She was always responsive and supportive.
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21 Nov, 2023 by Jim
Lisa was excellent throughout my divorce process. She made herself available to talk within reasonable timeframes and responded to emails quickly. Lisa guided me through the process effectively. I appreciated her candor when talking strategy before and during mediation. She made a difficult process easier to manage.
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Detric Linell Kemp, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Frederick, MD with 15 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
44,20
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5.0/5
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5.0
6 Reviews
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5.0
9 Reviews
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20 Apr, 2023 by Cristina brittian
Very professional, listened to all of my concerns and answered all of my questions
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19 Dec, 2022 by Justice joycetv
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07 Jun, 2022 by Patti c
Detric and Beth are beyond amazing. Very personable and compassionate. Love them!
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Karen Robbins, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Frederick, MD with 21 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,65
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
21 Reviews
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11 Nov, 2024 by Amy
Ms. Robbins was effective and efficient. She helped to keep me focused throughout this difficult process. She listened to my concerns and explained things to me. Ms. Robbins was able to negotiate to keep us out of court. Ms. Robbins, Paralegal, Chrystal was also extremely helpful.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I was looking for a lawyer with experience and confidence. She came highly recommended from the court employees and in the community. Handled the case with concise instructions and respect in regards to the case. Very just and fare dealing all involved.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Michael k
It doesn’t get any better. Karen and her assistant, Chrystal, are Superb. I was a lost little sheep, in a wolves den. Then came Karen. Her actions helped me mentally, and financially. Usually, in these scenarios, there is only one winner. So, if you don’t want to watch your monies get burned up by a callous Lawyer actions, call Karen. She is the “Good” Karen. Tho, in your corner, if needed, Big Bad Karen, will back you up. Give them a call. You’ll find out quickly , of what I speak….
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Nicholas R. McDaniels, experienced Business, Car Accident attorney in Frederick, MD with 79 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,28
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4.8/5
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5.0
20 Reviews
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4.8
59 Reviews
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11 Jul, 2024 by Achsah hammond
If you need a lawyer, YOU NEED Nicholas McDaniels! Lewis McDaniels law firm is a dedicated company as a whole and gets you the justice and help you deserve! They are knowledgeable, genuine professionals who earned much deserved respect, recognition, and appreciation from me! Thank you 1000x times for everything!
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19 Mar, 2024 by Jeremy weaver
Ryan, Nick, and Jack are the real deal. Great for real estate litigation.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Steve rose
Hank was great in all aspects with the sale of my business. From the initial contract review through the sale and dissolution of my business. I was able to get the financial terms I wanted through his tenacity with the buyer. Thank you for your professionalism. I would recommend Hank to anyone.
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John Edgie Russell, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Frederick, MD with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,06
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
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04 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
My wife is 92 and permanently in bed, not able to get out any more, I am 86 and too much for me to take care of her. I want to marry a lady who would take care of her. My wife agreed to that. I would like to apply for divorce!
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24 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Russell represented me in my divorce from my husband of 30 years. I found him to be extremely knowledgeable, kind and professional. I always felt that he had my best interests as his first priority. I highly recommend Mr Russell for divorce.
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Michael Wilbur Gast, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Frederick, MD with 26 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
41,96
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4.7/5
Avvo
4.9
21 Reviews
Google Maps
4.2
5 Reviews
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02 Oct, 2024 by Hanna perez
I recently had the pleasure of working with Michael Gast as my fiancé's legal representative during a trial, and I cannot express enough how impressed we were with his professionalism and dedication. From start to finish, Michael was prompt in his communication and highly proficient in getting the other party to respond, which made the entire process much smoother. What stood out the most was Michael's commitment to fully representing his client. He went above and beyond to ensure that my fiancé's interests were prioritized, demonstrating a level of care and diligence that is truly commendable. We wholeheartedly recommend Michael to anyone in need of legal representation and will definitely seek his services again in the future. Thank you, Michael, for your unwavering support and expertise!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Hanna
I recently had the pleasure of working with Michael Gast as my fiancé's legal representative during a trial, and I cannot express enough how impressed we were with his professionalism and dedication. From start to finish, Michael was prompt in his communication and highly proficient in getting the other party to respond, which made the entire process much smoother. What stood out the most was Michael's commitment to fully representing his client. He went above and beyond to ensure that my fiancé's interests were prioritized, demonstrating a level of care and diligence that is truly commendable. We wholeheartedly recommend Michael to anyone in need of legal representation and will definitely seek his services again in the future. Thank you, Michael, for your unwavering support and expertise!
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30 Sep, 2024 by David hewett
From the moment I spoke with Mr. Gast, I felt at ease and had great confidence in him to represent me. Michael is above all steady, a quality that you really want in a lawyer, to help you navigate the legal system. Michael always listened and responded thoughtfully, and helped me make sense of my situation and what would work best. He knows Frederick Country very well and had excellent suggestions that strengthened my case. He's a stand-up guy, with a solid sense of right and wrong. He also went out of his way to make himself available, if I needed to discuss something. Finally, an added bonus: he has a great sense of humor!
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Kristina Marie Nash, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Frederick, MD with 49 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
40,23
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
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5.0
43 Reviews
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23 Jan, 2025 by Afsaneh ohevshalom
I had a fantastic experience with this firm in Frederick, MD. Juda was very knowledgeable on my tax issue and guided me down the right path. He dealt with IRS for me and the state. He saved me and my business a lot of money when it came to what I owed. He was honest and reliable every step of the way. I am very happy I chose Gabaie and Associates in Frederick to deal with my tax issue.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Brian paknoosh
Best Tax Attorney in Maryland!
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23 Jun, 2024 by L k morgan
I appreciate Jessica's assistance. She was very attentive and took the time to go over our options. She was always available for follow-up calls and recommendations. We never felt rushed to make a decision.
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Carla Nadine Clarke, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Frederick, MD with 2 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
40,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
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05 Apr, 2022 by Lisa romano
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30 Jun, 2021 by Ann
She made my MSA iron clad and so grateful! I totally recommend her! I have to go back to court though because my ex has not followed the financials of the MSA and if I had more money to spare I would definitely hire her!!!
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Keith N Schiszik, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Frederick, MD with 11 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,01
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
11 Reviews
star star star star star
13 May, 2024 by Megan vaughn
Easy to work with and understanding in any situation. If the need ever arises I would definitely work with him again.
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25 Mar, 2024 by Daly martinez
He is a great lawyer! He stuck with me thru my case as a genuine person who truly cares for his clients. Not only did he get me thru and fight in my divorce, he also fought for me in my protection order case. I highly recommend him.
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13 Nov, 2023 by Vania jacobs
Rob was wonderful to me. I was super apprehensive about filing for divorce. But helped me through it. He was extremely flexible, always with a smile and good sense of humor. Very professional and told me facts and that is what I needed. Fair cost too. Overall I am super happy with his services.
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Timothy Thomas Conlon, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Frederick, MD with 1 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
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5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2023 by Sifu tim berkemeier -traditional wing chun
I spoke to Jamie Crestfield in reference to a legal matter Im dealing with by referral. Even though my matter was outside her specialty she still took the time to listen and gave me honest advice. If you're looking for an attorney within the aspects of law that she covers, I would definitely check her out.
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Scott M. Hartinger, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Frederick, MD with 1 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Apr, 2022 by Lisa romano
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Margaret Alice Teahan, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Frederick, MD with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,00
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5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
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05 Apr, 2022 by Lisa romano
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Stacy Anne Volovar, experienced Adoption, Bankruptcy attorney in Frederick, MD with 22 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
36,88
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
20 Reviews
star star star star star
28 Nov, 2024 by Melissa & jennifer
Seamless experience
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11 May, 2024 by Donald lambert
Great People
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29 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Best lawyer ever to the person who put that she is bad you are a tupid human being
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Elizabeth Stup, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Frederick, MD with 18 reviews
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info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,06
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
4.3
11 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
7 Reviews
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05 Apr, 2024 by Alan noznesky
Elizabeth is an outstanding lawyer. She thoroughly understands the legal and emotional process of separation and divorce and the impact on families and children. She is calm, firm, and very skillful in her approach to the process. She is also very patient as these matters sometimes take months and years to adjudicate. Furthermore, her fees are reasonable considering her expertise and the time involved. I feel lucky that she "hand held" me through my situation and was empathetic to the psychology of my former partner. She had a good handle on things from a financial and psychological standpoint and has the experience to adjust to the need of the client depending on the situation..ie, level of contention between estranged spouses. I highly recommend Elizabeth if you are in the process of seeking counsel and she is available. Good luck !
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02 May, 2023 by Michael l donk
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18 Jul, 2022 by Adam mcwilliams
Ms. Stup represented me well throughout a complex and contentious divorce, during which she was a strong advocate for my interests, an expert in the process and the law, and collaborative, compassionate, and ethical in her approach. I would highly recommend her.
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Michael Loren Sweet, experienced Business, Child Custody attorney in Frederick, MD with 1 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,03
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
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07 Feb, 2015 by Jason
Michael Sweet is the best general practice lawyer I've been to in Frederick, hands down. Very attentive and professional. I plan to use him for all of my legal matters going forward and I've already recommended him to friends and family.
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Christopher M Rolle, experienced Car Accident, Child Custody attorney in Frederick, MD with 5 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,52
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4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
5 Reviews
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01 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
We had a custody case with Mr. Rolle in August of 2017 and we are so happy we hired him! We instantly felt at ease with him. Also, he must have an excellent paralegal on staff. She seems to have done most of our paperwork (under his supervision/direction) and that was great for us! The custody order and other stuff was very well written and because he used his paralegal so wisely the billing to us was far less than we were expecting it to be. It was a huge relief for us. We’d had another lawyer before him who did things badly and was gouging us with the billing, so our final bill from this firm was a huge relief. They deducted the bill from our retainer and returned it in a reasonable amount of time. Also, when the other party was ready to settle (very much in our favor), because of life circumstances, Mr. Rolle’s Law firm was able to get the new custody order written up very quickly. I think it was only a couple of days and that included some revisions that we sent in after the fact. That was important because we were concerned the other party might change their mind. We would definitely hire Mr. Rolle again. Thank you!
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21 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Rolle does not take just any case. Even though he could easily do this to increase his billable hours, that is not his style. He is to the point, and cares about keeping legal costs down. I have recommended this firm to two of my friends and anticipate I will recommend them again if the opportunity arises. He was brilliant in how he drafted the complaint filed against my opponent and fiercely protected my legal interests.
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02 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Rolle is professional, kind, and did a fabulous job representing me in my divorce/custody case. He listened to me and worked effectively to get the best resolution for me and my children. Mr. Rolle is also very aware of not wasting time/money -- and thus my total attorneys' fees were not the extreme financial hit they could have been. Highly recommended!
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Sohrab Kamrad, experienced Child Custody attorney in Frederick, MD with 5 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
22,74
star star star star star
3.8/5
Avvo
3.8
5 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
The worst lawyer. We don’t recommend him at all. We heard he doesn’t win most cases. He is only good for easy divorce cases. Very rude and disrespectful.
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25 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I got Mr. Kamrad help through working on my case he is super kind and professional,he finished my case without complication and waste of time.
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30 Jul, 2017 by Thomas
Very legitament and helpful. He has experience and he did win a very good trial for me.
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Rehana S. Wieseman, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Frederick, MD with 7 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
17,76
star star star star star
3.3/5
Avvo
3.3
7 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Nov, 2024 by George
I was contacted by Ms. Wieseman and she was rude during the call. She asked me like 10 questions, very incoherent, didn’t get me a chance to answer her questions. The questions she asked were all over the place. She asked me who served me with paperwork, I said the Frederick Constable. She yelled andtold me it was the Sheriff. I told he wasn’t a Sheriff Officer it was a Constable. She then told me I don’t know what I am talking about. I need to read the paperwork. Then yelled some more, don’t know what she was saying. Then finally hung up the call.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Muhammad
If you are dealing with complicated divorce, child custody matter, she is the go to person, not only she go to above and beyond, but also always accessible at all times via phone or email, easy going very professional. She provides quality service with affordable price, highly recommended.
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23 Oct, 2023 by Leah
Ms. Wiseman did not do anything at the court besides notify the majesty her introduction to the case. After the case was changed to another day, she demanded more money and informed me that she didn't want to continue the case because it was too complicated for her. The case was only to receive the dates for hearings. Very unprofessional and rude.
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Jacob Benson Craven, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Frederick, MD with 7 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,03
star star star star star
2.7/5
Avvo
2.7
7 Reviews
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17 Feb, 2024 by Jason
My issues with the corrupt Frederick County State's Attorney Office and the thieves employed by the Frederick Police Department Narcotics Unit began when a federal agency was at my home searching for business records and found $150,000 in cash I kept at home. The feds wanted to seize the money but didn't have paperwork to do that so they contacted Frederick Police and showed them some marijuana I had in the house. Frederick Police, drunk on greed, fell over themselves drafting an unlawful search warrant and took my marijuana and steal my money from the house. Within 20 minutes of first meeting Jake he turned to his partner Mr. Poffenbarger while reviewing my documents and said, "this warrant they used is no good." I knew I was in good hands. When the Frederick police timed my arrest to occur over the Memorial Day holiday Jake was in court having me released on bail first thing on Tuesday morning. Jake is extremely personal, professional and caring. Even though his son was born during this time he always gave my case his full attention, was well prepared and presented an commanding presence in the courtroom. He stuck with me through the whole case even after I brought on a Baltimore attorney because I was convinced all of Frederick was in on the corruption. The Baltimore lawyer never showed up at any of my court hearings, but Jake was there with me without fail every other month for a year. He would have to present me the ridiculous offer, made every time to just let Frederick keep the $150k they stole and all the phony charges against my wife and I would be dismissed. Thankfully, we stood strong with Jake on our side. One of the happiest days of my life was standing with Jake in Court as he made the fat, smelly, money-grubbing prosecutor Colleen enter a Nolle Prosse on every charge in her bogus indictment. The very next week he forced the city to return all of the money they had stolen and my prescription Xanax. This was amazing because these corrupt government agencies can mount a civil case against the money even after they lose in criminal court. They just didn't have any fight left in them after the year Jake spent embarrassing them in Court. I'm happy to report those crooks didn't see a dime from their disgusting escapades. If I were ever accused or investigated for a crime, served a peace order or had a divorce or custody issue I know the first and only thing I need to do is call Jake Craven, Esquire.
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07 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
He didnt care to listen to anything I said he was more interested in making the states attorneys happy! Tried to get me to pled out for 3 years behide bars, went againt what he advised ended up with 1 year probation. F**k that dude.
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23 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
This guy is not professional and cannot be trusted to diligently do his job correctly. My first conversation with him was normal so to speak. I got off the phone feeling like I had hired a great attorney, but those feelings were short lived. He is rude, passive aggressive, and not equipped to handle complicated cases. He has poor communication skills, and if he gets frustrated enough, he will hang up on you!!
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Jennifer Leigh Rankin, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Frederick, MD with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Chelsea Anne Kadish, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Frederick, MD with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Amanda Lynn Sentelle, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Frederick, MD with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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FAQs
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Inquire about the expected timeline from filing the petition to reaching an agreement or going to trial.
  5. Will you personally handle my case?
    Ensure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court.
  6. 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.

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