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30 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
I called Howard and received great guidance on my case. He was polite and knowledgeable!
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10 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I was provided with great knowledge about the different outcomes of my case; now, I know what to expect. Thank you.
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13 Oct, 2019 by Mark
I was facing a serious traffic violation and Howard got it reduced to basicaly a traffic ticket. Awsome job Howard, thanks again!
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5.0
11 Reviews
30 Aug, 2023 by Tom
In my opinion Chris is a true professional. He has the knowledge and experience to navigate the complex legal and justice system with ease and finesse. My experience has been filled with education, great advice and complete follow through. The legal system is filled with enormous pitfalls and confusion. Chris not only has the experience to overcome these obstacles through his experience, he has the wherewithal to see what is being put on the table, methodically address the issue at hand to negotiate and resolve the issue with a fair and clear resolution. My only regret is; I wish, I would have been introduced years before.
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19 Jul, 2023 by Pat
Chris represented me through the divorce process and custody agreement. I cannot recommend him enough. If I had to go through it again, I would hire him again!
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16 Jun, 2021 by Glory
I hired Atty Chris Wirth 10 days prior to my trial date. Without hesitation he took my case. From 0 custody with a supervisor to a 50/50 is a huge win for me. I would highly and wholeheartedly recommend Chris. He is brilliant, compassionate, knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his client. I changed lawyer 3x during my divorce and custody battle, that's how bad my situation was. I'm so glad I finally found Chris.
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22 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Samantha is very detail oriented and cares about her clients. I would recommend her to anyone that I know. Can't thank her enough for all the times she has had to go to court for me.
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15 Jan, 2020 by Omar
I highly recommend Samantha Vantol for representation, she is very detail oriented and gets the job done! Samantha is very responsive, trustworthy, knowledgeable, professional and always prepared . Each time she handled my case I was highly satisfied with the outcome and would definitely recommend her services!
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13 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I couldn’t have asked for a better and more professional attorney to represent me. Sam is very knowledgeable, and made sure I was aware of everything that was going on. I highly recommend choosing her to represent you.
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27 Aug, 2019 by Megan
I was recently caught off guard with a motion against me from my daughter’s Father. Before I found Attorney Miracle, I called several firms and had multiple consultations with other attorneys who just seemed like they were out to take my money or give me a false sense of hope and tell me what they thought I wanted to hear instead of just being honest. I had a friend recommend Attorney Miracle and after our consultation, I knew immediately she was the one I wanted to represent my case and I don’t regret my decision. She was very open and honest with me from day 1 about everything. Attorney Miracle is very thorough with her work and I was very impressed. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to be my side throughout this whole ordeal. She’s extremely knowledgeable, professional, honest and compassionate. She put in a lot of time, hard work and energy towards my case and it really showed at our hearing. I couldn’t be happier with how well she represented our case. Attorney Miracle is truly one of the best Attorney’s around and won’t ever leave you disappointed.
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07 May, 2019 by Karen
I called Meaghan at a particularly sad time in my life. She helped me with handling of my Dad's estate when he passed. She was very informative and explained in great detail about the process and made a stressful time less stressful. Being that she is licensed in MIchigan and Virginia law, she was a tremendous help to me being Dad lived in Michigan and I live in Virginia. I am very greatful for all of her help and guidance along this sad road in life we all must take at some point.
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06 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Meaghan is very skilled in her profession. Not only did she take time to educate me in what needed to be done and how things work but she showed compassion in a very difficult case. In a hard time and having to have a lawyer she is the one you would want. Honest and by the book. I don't usually leave reviews but with her I felt I should. If you see this, thank you Meaghan!
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29 Oct, 2019 by Alejandro barajas
I 100% recommend Kendra as a attorney she was very precessional, on time and on top of my case. Kendras attention to the situation and care for my case was fenomenal. I am a Dad to the Bone and I was looking for a attorney who was serious about family, as this was very important to me. She helped me win my battles against my Ex who’s priorities were money, she kept starting frivolous motions to get off of child support and also motions stating me and my fiancé were hurting the children in hopes to gain full custody of the children. Father of a 2 year old and 4 year old now have 50/50 custody physical and legal I won the motions and she even managed to win attorney fees All in a matter of months. As a man it can seem difficult but not impossible especially with a great attorney like Kendra by your side, so again as a serious loving father I 100% recommend Kendra and her law firm.
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07 Jan, 2023 by Frank
After being married for 31 years and raising two children,Corey was confident in the divorce for a equal outcome, in witch he had happen. I would recommend him for any divorce
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27 Feb, 2019 by Christine
Carolyn is a fantastic family law attorney. I hired her to represent me through my divorce in January 2015 She was patient, understanding and extremely knowledgeable about my rights as I went through my divorce. She stayed on top of the case and did thorough research in order to protect me until the divorce was finalized in July 2015.
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19 Jul, 2012 by Kara
I have hired Ms. Leys now three different occasions. I have referred her to anyone inquiring on an attorney. She is honest and fair with her rates. She has always worked very hard for me as a client regardless on how simple or difficult the case may be. I have to say she is Top Notch!!! Should you have any questions do not hesitate to ask! Client since 2002!
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19 Oct, 2012 by Keith
Freeman did an excellent job guiding me through some tough issues with my ex wife and our child support case. There was too many things I did not know...Freeman and his assistant Francis were great in providing all help I needed.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Ty troeger
While needing to hire a lawyer was not on my list of things to do in life, being in a position where I needed one brought me to the Rodenhouse Law Group. Wonderful people from start to finish. Audra McClure was amazing with communication from the initial meeting to the final contact. Their efforts certainly made a life changing experience one that was not rushed, felt like I was being pressured or just another number in their list of clients: they made me feel like everything I had to say was important regardless of how big or little the details were.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Lorna grant
Miles took such wonderful care for me and my family. I will recommend Miles and your whole law office to everyone. Thank you for everything you did for me.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Margie elzerman
CE Education with Kevin and Rita, "Beyond Belief - Fair Housing Fact or Fiction". The learning techniques presented by Kevin are always fun and very informative. Looking forward to annual education with Hirzel Law for Team In Rhodes Management!
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28 Oct, 2024 by Nicole fujiko
I attended my first Fair Housing Fact or Fiction presentation hosted by Hirzel Law today, with the InRhodes Management team, and it was extremely interactive and informative!
I enjoyed the class, it promoted active conversation with the team, and allowed us to discuss different view points together!!
Thanks Kevin and Rita!
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28 Oct, 2024 by Stephanie rumble
Hirzel's team is not only one of the leading condo/hoa collection attorney's, but they offer tremendous amounts of information, resources, facts, updates and their own experiences/knowledge of all varying legal issues. They will go above and beyond to answer questions, provide examples, offer resources, and collect on those unpaid association dues.
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20 Jun, 2022 by H8 xeus
They took good care of me. I would recommend to friends and family.
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16 Dec, 2021 by Robert
Steve provided great service and was prompt on all communications. He is considerate and a great listener traits I value.
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26 Jul, 2021 by Kimberly brower
I had a great experience with the Firm.My attorney was Nick Romer he is very responsive and helpful to make sure everything is done correctly.Helped get my process done quickly. I recommend him if you need a attorney for Disability.
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02 Aug, 2024 by David cook
Amazing! Really fast service, Jeremy and crew know their stuff. Trust their advice
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02 Aug, 2024 by Robert dean willea
23 Jul, 2024 by Melanie brown
Kristen Wolfram was amazing through my custody case. She helped navigate a very taunting situation with my most important person in the world at the center, seamlessly. I’m so appreciative to have found an attorney I quickly learned I could completely trust with mine and my daughter’s best interests at the forefront. Kristen is transparent, professional and efficient. She takes the time to debrief and explain what happened during court hearings and what to expect moving forward. I highly recommend her for any family law needs. Thanks Kristen!
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02 Aug, 2024 by David cook
Amazing! Really fast service, Jeremy and crew know their stuff. Trust their advice
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02 Aug, 2024 by Robert dean willea
23 Jul, 2024 by Melanie brown
Kristen Wolfram was amazing through my custody case. She helped navigate a very taunting situation with my most important person in the world at the center, seamlessly. I’m so appreciative to have found an attorney I quickly learned I could completely trust with mine and my daughter’s best interests at the forefront. Kristen is transparent, professional and efficient. She takes the time to debrief and explain what happened during court hearings and what to expect moving forward. I highly recommend her for any family law needs. Thanks Kristen!
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15 Mar, 2024 by Taylor jones
Jennifer M. Anton is the best litigation attorney I've worked with! She's young, smart, super responsive, and knows her stuff. Highly recommend working with Jennifer!
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05 Mar, 2024 by David cadarette
Ron David and his team have helped MANY of our clients over the years to create Wills, Trusts and POAs. They do a world class job! Highly recommend them!!
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11 Jan, 2024 by Kay major
03 Jul, 2024 by Holly marie
Rick Conklin was great and very informative for myself and my elderly mother. He was punctual, efficient, and accommodating. My mom was in rehab after a major surgery and he met us there after work hours. He was honest about services he thought we needed and I would recommend him to anyone looking for an attorney!
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06 Jun, 2024 by David goron
Very Experienced and helpful. Everything went very smoothly and the communication was excellent. A pleasant experience.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Justfacts
Do Not Hire this attorney. Read carefully the negative reviews. He will take your money and if the judge is his buddy will do whatever the judge tells him to do on your case even if it means "throwing" your case just like others have commented. He told me what he would do in court and then did not do it. Then he met with the judge in chambers and refused to present my case. He refused to continue representing me and then demanded more money.
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09 Sep, 2024 by John jablonski
A total hack. Overcharged me and STILL forgot to even show up for my court date. I spent a year on probation for a crime I didn’t commit. I hope this man gets disbarred like he deserves.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Katie lebioda
28 Aug, 2024 by Annemarie lebioda
Renee was incredibly professional and communicative with our family and it made the whole experience much easier. So Appreciative of her great work!
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.5
137 Reviews
17 Sep, 2024 by Adrian fajardo
Im posting on behalf my poor boyfriend and yes he’s your client or was cus you stole $1200 just to told him things he already know and here we are asking you for the background you already had that I’m pretty sure you did nothing cus you don’t want to give it to him he already paid and we found another lawyer that is willing to help not just stole LISTEN stay away from this lady office found a better and reliable.
For the Spanish Latin
Busquen otro abogado esta señora es una ladronsuela que solo anda atrás del dinero y no hace nada y como otros pusieron en los comentarios uno llama y le cuelgan y aparte su contestación siempre es que no son clientes nosotros fuimos clientes y solo tomo nuestro dinero
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29 Aug, 2024 by Loreli lee
Worst experience ever, this office cares about money and nothing else and will find every way to screw you over!!! There are far better attorneys out there! Avoid this office like the plague!!!!! If you have any frustrations with them and try to voice them, even in a respectful manner, they hang up the phone and refuse to speak to you! Terrible place overall and a complete lack of communication throughout! 10/10 DO NOT RECOMMEND!!!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Christopher
I am very pleased with the services provided by Nathaniel Kaleefey. He is a trustworthy and responsive attorney who handled my hearing professionally, presented important points and called helpful witnesses. Throughout the process, he explained the costs and benefits of different options so I could make informed decisions. Overall he is a hard worker and he represented my case well.
In another matter, Nathanial efficiently took a reasonable approach to a divorce and custody case, and we received an excellent result on an easy settlement. Nathaniel is not afraid to counterpunch, he listens to you, implements a strategy, and works tirelessly for his client. I highly recommend him for divorce, custody, and all family matters.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Adrian fajardo
Im posting on behalf my poor boyfriend and yes he’s your client or was cus you stole $1200 just to told him things he already know and here we are asking you for the background you already had that I’m pretty sure you did nothing cus you don’t want to give it to him he already paid and we found another lawyer that is willing to help not just stole LISTEN stay away from this lady office found a better and reliable.
For the Spanish Latin
Busquen otro abogado esta señora es una ladronsuela que solo anda atrás del dinero y no hace nada y como otros pusieron en los comentarios uno llama y le cuelgan y aparte su contestación siempre es que no son clientes nosotros fuimos clientes y solo tomo nuestro dinero
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29 Aug, 2024 by Loreli lee
Worst experience ever, this office cares about money and nothing else and will find every way to screw you over!!! There are far better attorneys out there! Avoid this office like the plague!!!!! If you have any frustrations with them and try to voice them, even in a respectful manner, they hang up the phone and refuse to speak to you! Terrible place overall and a complete lack of communication throughout! 10/10 DO NOT RECOMMEND!!!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Isabel arriola
28 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
There should have been a conflict of interest stated right off the bat in my case. I used to work for him. Haslem is an attorney that will lie & create false narratives about the opposing party. 6 years post divorce, he still hasn’t figured out how to read the messy JOD that he created. I can show where he threatens me every single holiday especially Christmas, my birthday and Mother’s Day. It’s time the judge sees what he and my ex are continuing to do. Haslem refused to turn over properties due me in our JOD so I had to sue for it 4 years later and finally got it. His assistant is as dishonest as he is. I’m sure Haslem doesn’t know she helped me get away from him when I used to work for him. He will promise you the moon, charge you quadruple for it and deliver pizza. If you want a very dirty divorce with no peace until your kids graduate- hire him. You’ll keep paying him too. If you want peace and put your children first-do not hire him. The sad thing is, my eldest now sees how dirty Haslem plays and the lies he and my ex make up. He doesn’t create a healthy environment for kids in a divorce at all.
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15 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Mark Haslem came to my rescue after I exploited an arrogant and pretentious lawyer from a large firm. Haslem helped me resolve a very contentious divorce with my former spouse, who tried anything and everything to cheat the system. As opposed to the big firm, Haslem fought hard on my behalf to attain a fair settlement and to protect my financial interests, which was not easy when facing someone with a personality disorder. I am very grateful for all his hard work and would recommend him to anyone.
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22 Jun, 2022 by Timothy
His scorched earth approach makes it very difficult to make things amicable with the other party. I had to tell him to tone it down which was shocking
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06 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Ms. Perry made so many self promoting promises and claims that I was confident at first. After she assured shed have my case thrown out in court.She never took a call even from jail her secretary said she doesnt ( do collect calls)
Refused to meet with me even once. refused to ever take a call from my brother or my uncle or my spouse. Berated my uncle at court for calling the office so often. Didnt submit any of the evidence that my uncle and my spouse had to get themselves because she didnt have the time apparently. Never used the evidence. Didnt call the police officer that volunteered to testify on my behalf. Completely went to court with absolutely no evidence. no plan and even I thought I looked guilty after that redicuolous proceeding. It went from bad to worse. Then much to my surprise this attorney that said shed fight and fight hard for me tells me 10 min before court starts 4 months after our last meeting that I have 10 min to decide to cop a pkea or face 15 yes of PRISON. for a crime she knew I did not commit. It scarred me bad I took the plea knowing that sealed my fate I trusted her as my attorney. I did trust her and noone else did at all. Even another officer doubted her ability. well.I ended up going to prison for what she said never should have even got to court in the 1st place. I find out later her only specialty is in child custody and divorce. She advertises criminal defense.big huge difference. Then the final straw.Find out that theres a good chance she had a conflict of interest and never said a word. If your freedom and name is at risk I hope your much smarter than I was.
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28 Dec, 2015 by Ernest
She was a great person and was there when I had questions and when I needed her for something and did a great job I would use her again in a minute she is someone I would really reccomend if you need help
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21 Oct, 2015 by Tereasa
Such a blessing to have Shawn,not only as a consistent on top of things attorney but also becoming a true friend and family! Highly recommended
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04 May, 2020 by Brittany
Unprofessional, incompetent, and a huge waste of money. This attorney never had a clue as to what was going on in regards to my case, and all my phone calls and meetings with her were spent repeating the same details to her over and over, which had already been documented and covered in paper format with her client intake questionnaire. I ended up completely compromising on basically all of the issues in our case and my ex ended up writing our divorce settlement for her in order for us to be divorced in a timely manner. Still was charged for her time in "writing it up."
The day of my final hearing, she walked up to me confused and asked if I was her client. This was after meeting me in person twice, the last one occuring less than 2 weeks before the hearing. Also, right before the final hearing started, she ran off to make copies and when the judge and clerk arrived, they were baffled by her absence and we all had to wait for her to come back. Her delay in the proceedings of course were charged for.
From a low income, single mom who is legally fully responsible for the finances of 2 children, take my word. Save your money. Hire someone competent.
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21 Jan, 2018 by Mishelle
Contacted by email, quick response. Contacted again, quick response by phone and answered all my questions. Very impressive.
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05 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Susan superbly handled my divorce from a local attorney 5 years ago. She was able to keep a level of professionalism between all parties. Recent follow-up with her has been easy. I would say her creativity in divorce law has helped me tremendously. I would highly recommend her.
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25 Sep, 2019 by Andrew
She is a life saver. I had another lawyer that took my money and didn't care. She changed my situation around and now my daughter is happy. She is the best of the best. I went from losing to winning. Well worth the money and some!
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23 May, 2018 by Anonymous
She seems nice and knows the talk and walk; but she does slip and slid with the truth. Just beware if you make an agreement in mediation with her, because in front of the judge she changes what was agreed upon. I think this is her way. So, if she is your attorney and you don't mind her moving this way, she's good to hire.
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20 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I used Jayne for mediating a divorce. She gave false information which created issues with dividing up assets, failed to make an appointment for which she was in the office but did not respond to a phone call or message, and her office staff doesn't respond in a timely manner.
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17 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
My son entered in to a bitter, violent, and volatile divorce in July 2018. He reached out to Jeff because he is supposed to be a strong representative for fathers involved in a divorce. After hiring him on July 5, 2018, we found that my son's case was not held as a priority to Jeff. He often didn't return responses to emails or phone calls in a timely manner. Even though the safety of my son's children were at risk, he put other clients ahead of his case. When we brought this to his attention, he stated that he is busy and has other clients. Court paperwork in regard to temporary custody of the children was forwarded to my son for review without Jeff reviewing it first. There were many obvious mistakes including using the name of a judge that had retired 5 years ago, incorrect child support computation, incorrect directions for the exchange of the children, failure to include joint legal custody, failure to include that his spouse was no longer allowed in the home. When asked why the paperwork had not been properly reviewed, Jeff stated he was working on other cases and thought it best to get the information to my son as soon as possible. The most egregious action, however, was his biased opinion of my son and his chances of getting custody of his children. From day one, he used the word "jerk" when describing how a judge might look at my son. He told him the court system in which he had to file, was one of the worst ones to work with. When the friend of the court referee met with Jeff, he advised my son that the referee was not going to work with him and didn't even want to hear his case. Jeff advised my son to just accept whatever he could work out with his spouse's attorney as it would be the best he would get. This does not sound like an attorney that is willing to work for his client in his best interest. I would caution any male that is involved in a divorce to research very carefully before hiring an attorney to represent them. In the 6 weeks that Jeff represented my son, there was not one thing accomplished that would hold any weight in court. This allowed his wife to take his children, withold them from him, break into their house and take many of his belongings, and make constant threats. No one should go through this situation without an attorney that is willing to dig in and fight for them. We have since hired another attorney and are very pleased with her. She has gotten a court order that gives him time with his children, protection of his home, and personal safety.
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12 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Hired this lawyer to fight for my daughter after her mother abandoned her for 14 year cooking meth and in and out of jail.
Instead of him doing what we wanted in court he bent over backwards and did what the court wanted. Did nothing to help us.
He knew I wanted to appeal the decision that he recommended to the courts which was the opposite of what we wanted. 2 months go on and he calls saying he didn't get anything from the courts until the judge signed the order.
This lawyer is a joke. Does what he thinks is best instead of doing what's best for is client. Worst lawyer I've ever come met!!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Child Custody Lawyer Can Do for You
A child custody lawyer specializes in helping parents navigate legal matters related to the custody and care of their children, particularly in the context of divorce, separation, or other family disputes. These lawyers assist with determining custody arrangements, drafting parenting plans, and advocating for your rights in court. They also help resolve disputes over physical custody (where the child lives), legal custody (who makes decisions for the child), visitation rights, and modifications to existing custody orders.
Whether you're going through a divorce or need to change an existing custody arrangement, a child custody lawyer can help you understand your rights and protect your child's best interests throughout the legal process.
When Should I Hire a Child Custody Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child custody lawyer in several situations, especially when disputes arise or complex legal issues affect your parental rights. Some common reasons to hire a child custody lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: If you're going through a divorce or separation and need to establish custody and visitation arrangements, a lawyer can help ensure the custody order reflects your child's best interests.
- Disputed custody cases: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody or visitation terms, a lawyer can advocate for your rights in court and help you develop a strong case.
- Modification of custody orders: If you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to changes in circumstances (e.g., relocation, changes in the child’s needs), a lawyer can help file a modification request.
- Parental alienation: If the other parent is interfering with your relationship with your child, a lawyer can help address these issues through legal action.
- Domestic violence or abuse: If there is a history of domestic violence or abuse, a lawyer can help protect you and your child by requesting restraining orders and advocating for appropriate custody arrangements.
- Grandparent or third-party custody: If you are a grandparent or another relative seeking custody or visitation rights, a lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
- Paternity disputes: In cases where paternity is in question, a lawyer can assist with establishing or challenging paternity, which may affect custody and visitation rights.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help protect your parental rights and ensure that the custody arrangement is in your child's best interests.
What Does a Child Custody Lawyer Do?
A child custody lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents resolve custody disputes and secure favorable custody arrangements for their children. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing custody petitions: Helping you file the necessary paperwork to request custody or visitation rights and ensuring all legal procedures are followed.
- Negotiating custody agreements: Assisting in negotiating custody and visitation arrangements, often working toward a mutually beneficial parenting plan without going to court.
- Representing you in court: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody terms, representing you in court by presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Drafting parenting plans: Helping you draft a comprehensive parenting plan that outlines the schedule for physical custody, decision-making responsibilities, and visitation.
- Handling child support issues: Assisting with related issues such as child support, ensuring that financial obligations are properly calculated and enforced.
- Modifying custody orders: Helping you request a modification from the court if you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to significant life changes.
- Mediating custody disputes: Acting as a mediator to help both parents reach an agreement on custody and visitation without the need for litigation.
How Are Child Custody Lawyers Paid?
Child custody lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case, the time involved, and the nature of the legal work. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child custody lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer's experience and location. The total cost depends on the time spent preparing documents, negotiating, and representing you in court.
- Flat fee: For simple custody matters or uncontested custody agreements, some lawyers may offer a flat fee for specific services, such as drafting a parenting plan or filing a custody petition.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount varies based on the expected complexity and duration of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers may offer reduced fees or pro bono (free) services for clients with limited financial means, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or other serious issues.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are included.
How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child custody lawyer depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case, whether it’s contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested custody cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and any negotiations.
- Contested custody cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the issues, the need for expert testimony, and the time spent in litigation.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or complex custody disputes.
- Mediation services: If both parents agree to work through mediation, costs typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for the mediation process.
Always ask for a clear cost estimate during your consultation to ensure that you understand the total legal fees and payment structure.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Custody Lawyer
Before hiring a child custody lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Some key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with child custody cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, especially if your case involves complex issues like domestic violence, relocation, or paternity disputes. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees for certain services, or requires a retainer, and ask for an estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Inquire about the expected timeline from filing the petition to reaching an agreement or going to trial. -
Will you personally handle my case?
Ensure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
Can we pursue mediation or alternative dispute resolution?
Ask whether the lawyer recommends mediation or other forms of dispute resolution to avoid a lengthy court battle.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Custody Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child custody lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and child custody cases.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge the lawyer’s professionalism and success in child custody matters.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on custody cases.
- Check for certifications: Look for lawyers who are board-certified in family law or have memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) or local family law sections.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a child custody lawyer, come prepared with relevant documents and information:
- Court orders or existing custody agreements: Bring copies of any existing custody or visitation orders for the lawyer to review.
- Communication with the other parent: Provide copies of emails, texts, or letters regarding custody, visitation, or disputes.
- List of your child’s needs: Prepare a list of your child’s specific needs, such as medical care, education, and extracurricular activities.
- Timeline of the case: Outline key events related to your custody case, including changes in living situations or parental involvement.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the custody process, legal fees, and the lawyer’s strategy for your case.
By being well-prepared, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible advice for protecting your rights and your child’s well-being.
