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4.9
46 Reviews
03 Sep, 2024 by Perry power
I found myself needing a divorce lawyer after being served separation paperwork from my spouse. Shelly and her team were able to do an initial consultation within a day, and truly took the time to understand the complex issues surrounding my case. Shelly and her team have worked TIRELESSLY through this entire process to ensure that my rights as a father were preserved and protected. I truly owe this law firm my everything, as they have advocated for me and my children as if we were family. Being a father in divorce court is no longer the doom sentence that it once was, and the entire team did everything within their power to make sure my rights were protected. Ultimately, the final outcome of my case exceeded my expectations. I attended countless mediation sessions, hearings, and ultimately a custody trial. Shelly and Jessica both were very effective at communicating and guiding me through this entire process, and I am so grateful to have them by my side for every step of the way. Divorce truly brings out the worst in people, and having absolute faith in your legal team is a must. Shelly and her team delivered time and time again. The only reason I gave 5 stars is because there isn’t 6. Thank you!!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
One believes they will be married forever and then after several decades, circumstances can change leading to the end of ‘forever’. In the beginning, my husband and I agreed we would do a quick online divorce without lawyers so we created our own separation agreement. I started to feel uneasy when his amicable behavior changed, he stopped communicating and began wavering on our agreement. I soon realized that I needed legal representation to protect my interests. None of my friends had legal recommendations so I did an internet search.
I came upon the website for the Law Office of Shelly M. Ingram and started researching the firm. I was impressed immediately with the backgrounds of all the associates and reviews were spectacular. I was equally impressed when I made my initial inquiry with the Legal Assistant, Laurie Danko. She made the intake process over telephone and email seamless and had quick response time to all my inquiries. Jessica Gillespie, Associate Lawyer was assigned my case. I had never needed a lawyer before so I was really nervous and intimidated prior to our meeting. The law office is in a secured set of rooms in a professional building, giving me sense of safety. The conference room was designed with chic and beautiful features, yet it was warm and inviting. I was put at ease immediately when Jessica arrived. She was down to earth, approachable, and most importantly to me - empathetic. I had no reservations about hiring this firm.
My initial separation agreement needed to be revised in a few areas to protect my interests. I had very specific concerns about the wording of this document to ensure that my husband would not find a legal loop hole that would enable him to stop his financial obligations for me in the future. Jessica recommended a specialty law firm that could work in concert with her firm to address these specific items. Revising the agreement was a collaborative process that took a few weeks, which was important for me. She alleviated all my concerns, which made me feel that I was in control throughout this process. When we had our settlement conference at the Court house, Jessica negotiated a settlement that was very agreeable to my husband and me. Thankfully, everything was quite amicable, so much so that both our attorneys commented that they had never had a divorcing couple who were so friendly and agreeable to one another.
Ms. Gillespie has a busy caseload, yet she made me feel like I was her only client. She kept me apprised of everything that was happening with my husband’s attorney, the specialty law firm and all aspects with the Court process. I was concerned about this being a financial hardship, but she was very upfront and realistic about my retainer and expected legal fees. My divorce is now final and my concerns about my ex’s financial obligations were resolved as of this week. I even have a balance of my retainer that is being returned!
Nobody gets married with the intention of getting divorced. This process could have left me feeling defeated, however, I feel validated and empowered. I am so glad I decided to seek out legal advice. Hiring the Law Office of Shelly M. Ingram was the best decision I could have made.
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03 Apr, 2024 by X li
01 Jul, 2020 by Jeanne gutierrez
I selected Emily Russell of McCabe Russell, P.A. for legal representation in a divorce case and a civil case as the Plaintiff and it morphed into an unfounded restraining order case and an unfounded criminal case with me as the defendant. Emily has the knowledge and experience in dealing with high conflict / challenging family law cases (narcissists) and her calm, professional demeanor and thorough preparation was successful in winning all the cases in my favor.
With the stress of four cases happening concurrently, having Emily, Associate Attorney Jennifer Bradbury and their supporting staff’s personal attention to the details of each case was a huge relief to me. They were patient, responded promptly and dedicated to getting the truth known to the judge in each case. They made a difficult time easier.
McCabe Russell, P.A. is a highly organized law firm. Their webpage is state of the art, allowing payments to be made and documents to be uploaded securely.
I would highly recommend Emily Russell and Jennifer Bradbury of McCabe Russell, P.A.
-Jeanne Gutierrez
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13 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Custody modification is often even more challenging than an initial custody proceeding. The "material change" and "best interest" standards are rather subjective and a judge is not inclined to change a custody agreement without overwhelming evidence that it would improve the child's situation.
Despite the inherent difficulty, Ms. Russell achieved the exact result we set out to achieve in my custody modification case. She is an incredible strategist and litigator with a total command of MD custody law. Every part of the plan was well-considered and well-executed.
I would highly recommend Emily for any family law matter. I would also recommend listening to her when she provides advice. Unlike some attorneys, she doesn't hedge on every recommendation to the point that you're making all the decisions without knowing the possibilities of how those decisions will turn out. She will provide sound advice taking into account the facts of the matter. Tell her the truth, take her advice, and let her do her job. She is equipped to attain the best possible outcome for you and your family.
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27 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
My very first impression of Emily was amazing. Friends of mine were having their first child and the hospital would not allow the non birth mother to access their newborn due to them being a same sex couple. Emily not only answered her phone right away, she drove to the hospital to make sure her clients were being taken care of!
Emily (and Heather) stepped in to handle was was quickly becoming a very emotional situation. Within moments the problem was solved and our friends had a smooth adoption afterwards.
I knew Emily was going to be my first call to handle dissolving a civil union (issued only in Vermont) that I had been a part of since 2001. Emily met with me to go over my options on what I was told by two other attorneys would be nearly impossible and very costly. My former partner and I were tethered to a civil union that states no longer recognized and they were obsolete as marriage equality was on the horizon. The unfortunate part was those living in civil unions who had separated, like myself were caught up in the red tape of the courts with many courts claiming no jurisdiction, yet this was still a legal binding that would had to be dissolved to get officially married.
From the start Emily said "we will get this done, and if we can't at first we will keep trying until we do". Emily went far above and beyond in my case. On the day before the trial, the courts were all of a sudden requesting my EX be present. She lives 1200 miles away. Emily called the court endlessly the entire day and after hours, she faxed forms to the judge and guided not only me but pointed my ex in the proper direction to make sure she would not be left in some sort of trouble with the courts. As my case was in front of the judge, i was worried! I felt the judge was tough on the cases before mine....Emily was right next to me and consistently told me "its ok". When it was time for my case, Emily was confident and calm in front of the judge. She had a quick response for every question and was prepared for what seemed like anything and everything. 10 minutes later, my civil union which had been in limbo for years, was dissolved! Emily Charged me a regular uncontested divorce rate. She responded to every call and email within hours. I still can't believe it and Emily and I stay in touch to this very day!
if you need an attorney, this is your answer. EMILY AND HEATHER. They are not just attorneys, they are real people who truly get it. You'll never feel intimidated or pressured, Emily made me feel like she was fighting for a personal friend the entire time.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Melissa anderson
Karen Amos has been representing me and my family for over a decade. She is hands down the best attorney in Howard County. I’ve also recommended her to friends and colleagues. She is professional, knowledgeable, compassionate, driven, and determined to achieve the best results for her clients as she’s done for me and anyone that I’ve recommended. Karen Amos will fight on behalf of her clients to ensure they achieve the results that they’re looking and are fulfilled. I highly recommend Karen Amos as an attorney.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Julixa haddon
I had a very disappointing experience with Karen Amos, who was appointed as the Best Interest Attorney (BIA) for my twins. It became evident that she unfairly favored one child over the other, often disregarding the feelings and well-being of the child who had done nothing wrong. Unfortunately, after only one conversation, one of my children no longer feels comfortable speaking with her, despite her insistence that the child must—this is not a requirement under Maryland law.
Additionally, I found her fixation on superficial aspects, such as repeatedly mentioning the kitchen backsplash during discussions, highly unprofessional and irrelevant to her role. In my opinion, Karen Amos does not maintain the impartiality expected of a BIA and seems to pick sides rather than advocate fairly for both children. Based on my experience, I do not believe she should be appointed to represent any child in the future.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jeff
Lindsay was the perfect attorney for my case. Lindsay provided the guidance, empathy, education, and care necessary to help me through a very difficult time. Her poise, knowledge, and patience led me through a confusing legal landscape. Her professionalism and expertise was truly astounding. I cannot speak more highly of her. I would recommend Lindsay Stanton as the most well-rounded attorney I have ever had opportunity to represent me.
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04 Jan, 2020 by Christine
For those reading: I went to this firm on a recommendation and a warning that it would cost more than your average lawyer but it would be worth it and I could not be happier! I was divorcing my husband and in the beginning it seemed like an amicable divorce, he as mostly agreeable and we were able to file for an uncontested divorce and with the help of Heather and her team I have a very solid marital separation agreement that is very well written and covers things I did not think of at all. I have seen a few of my friend's separation agreements made up by other lawyer teams, and I will attest that the one written by this team was more extensive than any others I have seen.
Unfortunately I had trusted that my ex-spouse and I were able to keep in the agreement and I went "softer" than I though I needed to. Unfortunately I had to file a contempt of agreement and this law team again rose up to ensure I felt supported and not out of line in what I was seeing. He wasn't paying all the support he agreed to, and he was talking in ways with my children that they shouldn't be in a divorce. Her team filed everything and we found ourselves in mediation with their law team. It was good, I wanted time with my kids, he wanted money, we got through it, the advice the McCabe Russell team had for me was paramount and made me comfortable and confident. I am so much more educated and confident in my matters, and they also ensured that after mediation that all the paperwork was accurate and inline with my wishes. It was smooth and easy. I highly recommend this firm. I worked directly with Hillary and Heather and they were just fantastic, understanding, compassionate and just treated me humanely. Thank you. I will continue to utilize their services should I require them again.
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08 Jan, 2019 by Gina
Without Atty Heather and Atty Emily I don’t have my son with me. Because of them I have peace. I thank God and will continue to pray for them and the family. Therefore, I highly recommend Atty Heather McCabe and Atty Emily Russell to handle your case and you will amaze for the results they will not leave you very supportive lawyers.
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23 Nov, 2016 by Terrance
Contemplating or facing the circumstances of going through family court to do what you believe is best for your child(ren) is one of the hardest decisions that a person may face in life. The concept of having to fight anyone, let alone the other parent, for the opportunity to establish, maintain and/or protect the relationship with you and your child(ren) is a very difficult decision to make. Additionally, being an active participant in your child’s life is the life blood to being a parent and building those life long memories with your child(ren). As such, and while I believe that an amicable solution should ALWAYS be sought first, sometimes the only alternative you are left with is family court.
To that point, I was lead to the offices of McCabeRussell (also referred to as my “Dream Team”) and what a godsend they were and continue to be to me and my family. If I had to sum up my feelings, I would have to say that Heather McCabe, Emily Russell, Anna Sholl and the entire McCabeRussell team are absolutely, hands down AMAZING! And, unfortunately, that still doesn’t fully describe or quantify how unbelievable and well suited of a legal team they are to anyone facing a family court matter.
Before contacting McCabeRussell, I was a frustrated single father facing a system that I believed was stacked against me. As a man and an African American father, I have heard the horror stories of how the family court system is rigged against men and the hell that fathers sometimes have to endure to be involved in their children’s lives when the other party doesn’t share the same sentiments regarding parental involvement. Well, my story started the same way until I pick up the phone and spoke to Heather. I embarked on this journey facing multiple and, at times, ridiculous allegations about my fitness as a parent and access to my son of every other weekend and NO overnights. After speaking with Heather on the first phone call/initial consultation to the standing with Emily and Anna at final verdict being rendered some 14 months later, they were ALWAYS there at every turn, phone call, email, etc. While it was my hope that I would have been able to settle the matter out of court, Heather and Emily prepared me for the possibility of the inevitable – a trial. I hated this option but, realized it was necessary in my case. They helped me (emotionally and legally) navigate several phases of the legal process --- the initial phases of very limited access, fending off protective order attempts meant to further curtail my parental access and abilities, acquired me a three (3) hour temporary hearing to address my lack of access and finally, a trial where they were able to prove my fitness as a father and helped me attain shared physical and joint legal custody.
What I just provided was a snapshot of my own circumstances but, hopefully enough for you to glean why I say this office is my “Dream Team”. Heather, Emily and Anna are tenacious trial attorneys, well versed in all aspects of domestic and family law, compassionate, child focused, attentive, over prepared, organized, responsive and very professional. I was a novice entering this but have since learned that all lawyers are not made alike. Now, while I didn’t get everything I wanted from the court, I can take solace in knowing that McCabeRussell advocated hard as ever to get me a significant amount of time, decision making ability and ultimately, the peace of mind to know that I have a team to fall back on when or if I am ever faced with similar circumstances in the future. In short, I would ONLY recommend McCabeRussell as the law firm to choose if you are faced with a domestic or family law matter.
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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:
-
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.
