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30 Aug, 2024 by Moani gella
Gregg and Francine did an amazing job helping me with my case. Everything went smooth from the start and the amount of stress they have lifted off of my shoulder, I couldn't have been more thankful of that. Would recommend to anyone looking for a lawyer!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Reyna alcantra
Greg helped me with my debt issues. I am in a better place now being debt free. Go see Greg as he will blast your debts away! He has great availability and he offers a payment plan.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Troy kobashigawa
5.0
5 Reviews
5.0
116 Reviews
05 Sep, 2024 by Jason rosario
Excellent at what they do!!!! They helped me with my lemon against Hyundai and I am very pleased! I highly recommend and will save them in case I have to use them again in the future.
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25 Aug, 2024 by Michael young
David is awesome. He did a great job settling my case so quickly. I would highly recommend his Law Firm.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Martin paredes-martinez
My consultation with Mr David Gorberg was quick and professional! I was looking to become a client but I ended up not needed the service due to some positive outcomes. I witnessed interaction with him and my friend and it made me want to call him immediately for my issue. He’s very knowledgeable and ONLY has yours and your family’s best interest at heart. I recommend his services for either general information or to hire them for your case 10/10!
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06 Mar, 2023 by Nannapha
Their works are impressive. The lawyer and her assistant are very responsive and able to get back to me in a timely manner. High quality work, Good communication, and at Reasonable rate. I am very appreciated their work and Highly Recommend everyone to use this firm!
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22 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Ms. Lee is very professional, diligent, courteous, and thorough. She was a God-send for me. She is easy to contact and responds to inquiries in a very timely manner.
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01 Feb, 2017 by David
During the initial consulting stages, we met several times or so to brainstorm and exchange information; I tried my best to be as thorough as possible without letting feelings come into play but in a post divorce case with my child involved, my emotions tended to come out at times. Ms. Lee was able to instinctively discern important information from the drama as we collaborated our approach to the case. She was compassionate toward the matter but when important elements of the case were needed to be brought to my attention, she did not hastily beat-around-the-bush or sugar coat it; instead, in a straight forward manner she informed me about what was at stake and the various options, if any, that could have been taken. After the initial meeting stages, she recommended that we meet with the opposing party in a pre-court settlement effort. I was definitely not in my element in that meeting, but which client really is? Ms. Lee's demeanor before and during the meeting put me at ease so I was able to think clearly. Both parties were able to settle a fair amount of issues in this meeting so the next thing was to await the court date. The court date arrived quickly and before I knew it, we were preparing to enter the courtroom. The outcome of the case achieved the end that was in my daughter's best interest. Ms. Lee had more than just knowledge of the law field, she had the ability to put this knowledge into effective action which demonstrated her wisdom of the profession.
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10 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Steve is unbelievably awesome. He saved my sanity. Prepared my docs so fast and got my divorce filed and finalized within 2 months and I have kids! Amazing!!!
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06 Mar, 2017 by Hector
To sum up my personal experience with Steve: I was wrongfully accused of abusing my daughter by my ex and thanks to these committed individuals, I was not only exonerated of these false allegations but Steven went above and beyond to clear my name by finding crucial facts and fighting hard for me in and outside of court. I would recommend this office to any father (or mother) struggling in Family court and fighting for the TRUTH. Make no mistake, this office provides exceptional work and does not settle for anything less than average, every penny spent is worth their quality work.
Steve is a passionate and caring individual. He is very investigative in his work, never confronting an obstacle without being very prepared and well knowledgeable on the matter through his exceptional research skills. Mr. Kim responds well to all e-mails, providing a very insightful perspective and takes a commanding charge for necessary next steps. I now consider him not just my attorney who I know I can always count on for any legal matter, but most of all a friend I can depend on to protect my family.
Believe me when I said, I can trust my life that Steven will look out for the best interest of my life and my daughter. Thank you for everything.
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28 Oct, 2016 by Maria
Our family lives in the Mainland, and we were in a desperate need for legal support in Hawaii when I approached Steve. It was a complicated family court case, heartbreaking for us as it involves a child. Steve was very accommodating and he and his team expertly represented us throughout the long court process. Very professional and strategic in his delivery, yet attentive and cared deeply for what our family was going through. Happy to report that the results were very positive, better than we can hope for. Our home is now filled with laughter, and we owe it to Steve!
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02 Feb, 2021 by Emily
Lynne Jenkins McGivern is an amazing attorney and person. Her professionalism, knowledge, and hard work was a constant comfort to me during my very difficult divorce. My divorce was bonkers complicated with jurisdiction issues, restraining orders in other states, my spouse seizing marital assets, etc. When ever I told her something she grasped the severity of the situation and was quick to formulate a plan.
As a side note, over the year we worked together, she remembered everyone's name (my husband, his girlfriend, my kids, my mother etc) even though she had not met them. My husband's attorneys would mistype the children's names or ages, I hated that. Lynne never made such mistakes.
Also, while Lynne is no more expensive than the other good divorce attorneys in HI, I never felt over-billed. My divorce was expensive, but whenever I saw her bills, I felt they were justified and a very fair representation of the hard work she did.
If you are thinking about a divorce or getting divorce, Lynne is the person you want. She is a pleasure to work with and having her on "my side" was the one bright spot of my miserable divorce!!
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22 Jul, 2018 by Colette
Lynne was able to secure physical and legal custody for my children. She really fights for her clients. I was in an abusive situation and didn't know how to explain the harm I wanted my children protected from. Lynne immediately got the children child support, even though their dad was trying to get a continuance and prolong not paying. She fought for the children to have supervised visits for the entire TRO, which they did. She had a judge's ruling reconsidered and changed and did what was best for my kids till the end. Also, upon reviewing bills from other firms, Lynne and Anita definitely undercharge. Other firms here overcharge, or charge you for not working and try to blame other attorneys, its horrible. Lynne isnt like that at all. She honest, shes very strategic, and shes a fighter. I have been in her office as she works and she works quickly, writes eloquently, and was able to perceive my thoughts and concerns for my children while utilizing the law. Hire her.
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15 Apr, 2016 by David
I had a really complicated divorce. My wife was not cooperating/communicating. Her attorney was trying to make me look like a bad father. Our assets were partially shared with other family members. I started with someone who had a good reputation in the industry, but honestly, he seemed to have too many other cases and did not seem to want to understand the details of my Case, or be proactive.
During the course of our divorce, I did my own research, and interviewed about 3 other attorneys, all of whom came highly recommended. This is what makes Lynne different: She asked appropriate questions regarding the history and analyzed the data I had compiled. She maintained good communication and was empathic. She did not unnecessarily turf work to her employees, which meant she took the time to really dig into the details of my case. She responded to phone calls and emails very promptly. She is very accessible.
Something I did not expect, was she never mentioned how busy other cases made her and ALWAYS took the time to follow up on my issues. It was as if I was her only client. I felt like I was getting VIP treatment.
The way my case was going before I met Lynne, I think I was at least 18 months away from divorce. Lynne took the time to understand my position and speak with the other attorney to get a better understanding of their position. Lynne drafted a proposal which became a settlement and we were divorced in 4 months. I am very thankful for this because of the high conflict nature of our case, without Lynne, it would have been MUCH longer.
I regret not starting with Lynne, but she picked up my case midstream and worked to settle very quickly.
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28 Sep, 2022 by Melissa corbin
This review is way past due. Huilin was my godsend. If not for her, my ex spouse and his unethical lawyer would have dragged my divorce out more than the two years they have already had. I had two previous attorneys before finding Huilin and although they promised to keep the cost down, they lied. If you would like to know who the other attorneys involved where please respond. Anyway Huilin cut through all the bs and had me divorce fairly within 3 months. She is the best Honolulu has and I will always have her back as she had mine. You'd be insane not to hire her.
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23 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
In a difficult time in my life, Attorney HuiLin Dong handled my divorce case, She is patient & a true professional in her field. My child custody process itself was extremely overwhelming and emotional, She answered all of my questions and was very clear on all possible outcomes of my case and outcome was great !
She has great knowledge of the legal steps necessary to conduct business. Really a great asset in the law business.
She was charged very reasonable cost, and successfully able to guided me through some complicated family issues and I am forever grateful for the services she provided.
We are highly recommended her legal services to anyone in need of help. Mahalo !
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04 Mar, 2023 by Stefan
Five stars!
Erin Kobavashi is an outstanding lawyer!
Her office is conveniently located right on Bishop Street and her fees are reasonable but most of all, she is very caring, supportive, and efficient!
l am a retired VA Psychiatrist, who was dealing with long Covid symptoms as the divorce proceeded and she was very flexible and patient with me. She is an absolutely superb lawyer!
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19 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Diehl was exceptional in handling my case. Being that there were children involved and I was never married, paternity case, it wasn't something he dealt with often. There were a lot of agencies that came into play. Mr. Diehl easily navigated through every process to do exactly what was best for his client, me, and ultimately for the children. He is extremely ethical, straight arrow and will not let his clients step out of line. As a client I learned a lot from him. I also had an outcome that did not prospered temporarily, but permanently. The strategy he used made everyone live to a higher standard.
We went into court in 2006/07 and wrapped it up in 2013. He stuck with me the entire time that the other party kept striking. He had us endure til the end. I value his service higher than what the money charged could ever be. Why? Because 3 years later my two boys are honor roll kids, one attended Berkeley at 14 years old and the younger boy is in Project Lead The Way. That happened because the expectation he put in play for those boys parents were at a standard that he believed could be attained. My boys father and I get along great for the children. The orders were all done by Mr. Diehl. He is extremely knowledgeable in his arena. I can say with confidence, "best of the best". I feel I'm not even qualified to make a review on someone of this caliber. But I want everyone to know that credit needs to be due, he deserves that along with his assistant Susan Y. Amazing people.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Joan matsuoka
Great attorney with years of experience. Very professional and compassionate.
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11 Feb, 2022 by Kat kamalamalama
Great man, knowledgeable and straight forward. Loved it
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30 Sep, 2019 by Lehua lum
5.0
4 Reviews
4.9
190 Reviews
06 Aug, 2024 by Robert vitro
I can't thank Brian enough for his outstanding work in getting me out of a difficult situation. From the very beginning, he demonstrated exceptional legal knowledge, strategic thinking, and a commitment to my case that went above and beyond. Brian was always available to answer my questions, provided clear and honest guidance, and fought tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome. His expertise and dedication made all the difference, and I highly recommend Brian Kim to anyone in need of a top-notch lawyer. Thank you again for everything!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Jhaymarc agustin
best attorney in the island
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20 Jul, 2024 by Shawna daniels
Brian is the best lawyer there is. Don't think twice, call him now for an legal issues.
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5.0
3 Reviews
4.9
190 Reviews
06 Aug, 2024 by Robert vitro
I can't thank Brian enough for his outstanding work in getting me out of a difficult situation. From the very beginning, he demonstrated exceptional legal knowledge, strategic thinking, and a commitment to my case that went above and beyond. Brian was always available to answer my questions, provided clear and honest guidance, and fought tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome. His expertise and dedication made all the difference, and I highly recommend Brian Kim to anyone in need of a top-notch lawyer. Thank you again for everything!
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29 Jul, 2024 by Jhaymarc agustin
best attorney in the island
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20 Jul, 2024 by Shawna daniels
Brian is the best lawyer there is. Don't think twice, call him now for an legal issues.
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20 Apr, 2024 by Scott rogers
Working with Keoni at the LAW OFFICE OF KEONI SOUZA was an exceptional experience. We needed expert help planning and executing my mother's complex estate, and Keoni surpassed all expectations. He was meticulous in explaining all our options and walked us through each step of the process until completion. Before choosing Keoni's firm, we interviewed two other estate planning firms, but none matched the clarity and attention to detail that Keoni provided. We are incredibly pleased with our decision and highly recommend his services to anyone looking for competent and compassionate estate planning assistance.
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03 Feb, 2024 by Carl ronhaar
Working with Keoni on our estate plan was an absolute pleasure. He made a very complicated process simple, and his attention to detail with our specific life circumstances was incredible. He made every step of the process stress free and we never felt rushed when trying to get our questions answered. We’re looking forward to a continued relationship with him for all our estate planning needs.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Dean masai
We highly recommend Keoni Souza Law Office for developing your trust and estate planning. We loved our experience with Keoni Souza and his staff. Keoni was very helpful, patient, courteous, and knowledgeable about trusts and wills. We also liked his humor. He helped us craft our trust and will documents to conform to the State of Hawaii regulations. His step-by-step instructions and checklists made it easy to understand what was happening and the purpose of each document. He was very thorough and used language specific to Hawaii and our situation, unlike online sources that used language meant for general mainland use. His use of secure, high-tech methods gave us confidence that our documents were safe from hackers. If you have not yet made a revocable living trust and will to protect your assets from probate, I highly recommend contacting Keoni Souza for assistance.
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.8
23 Reviews
30 Jun, 2023 by Anthony anthony
Working Daryl and his team was a great experience. They made it all very simple, right down to the “sign right here” moments. Often times I was out of touch and my wife’s English was not very good at the time but they were patient and understanding. When we were a bit worked up, they took the time to put our worries at ease. Absolutely would recommend.
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07 Mar, 2022 by John soon hee lee
The best Family Law Attorney's in town. I've been a client of theirs for almost 30 years and they successfully handled all of my divorces and child custody cases.
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03 Jun, 2021 by Chris hobbs
Came to Daryl looking for advice on my H1B visa and options going forward with transfer and renewal. He was incredibly knowledgeable, clear and compassionate and really helped with my situation, providing me with information about LCAs and competitive recruitment. Would not hesitate to consult or hire Daryl again, a great experience overall.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Svetlana zheleznova
Хочу выразить благодарность своему адвокату Лене Невской и ее команде ! Это специалисты, высшей категории, которые знают свое дело. Мне очень понравилось с ними работать , ясно и четко ведут свои дела. Если мне или моим близким предстоит снова работа связанная с эмиграцией- Лена Невская- рекомендую !
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12 Aug, 2024 by Vlad knyazev
Для меня Лена сделала практически невозможное. Мой кейс продолжительностью 10 лет. И теперь когда я держу в руках гринкарту, я испытываю огромное уважение и благодарность.
Точно уверен что если бы сразу обратился к Лене по прибытии в США то все бы было намного проще.
Так что если доверяете свою жизнь то доверяйте ее настоящим проверенным профессионалам!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Shalondra suto
Mr. Liebenguth was prompt and informative when initially seeking his consultation and service. I appreciate his approach as it’s geared towards understanding what your concerns are and educating you on his services before requesting payment. He is very knowledgeable about Military processes and without him representing me I believe my outcome would have been negative. Having him in my corner gave me so much peace of mind while going through a stressful situation. I strongly recommend hiring Mr. Liebenguth for representation to ensure your process is fair and just.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Shalondra suto
Mr. Liebenguth was prompt and informative when initially seeking his consultation and service. I appreciate his approach as it’s geared towards understanding what your concerns are and educating you on his services before requesting payment. He is very knowledgeable about Military processes and without him representing me I believe my outcome would have been negative. Having him in my corner gave me so much peace of mind while going through a stressful situation. I strongly recommend hiring Mr. Liebenguth for representation to ensure your process is fair and just.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Kalani makanui
I wish I could provide higher than a five-star rating for Nathan. He is an exceptional lawyer. My family spent 3 years wrapped up with another law firm, caught in an administrative stalemate. I called around to find different lawyers (made 7 separate phone calls). Only 3 law firms called me back, and 2 of them wanted to charge exorbitant rates for what we needed. Nathan called back quickly and provided a detailed, step-by-step explanation of what was needed to complete our property conveyance and handle back taxes/administrative filing. He even encouraged us to take the necessary steps ourselves if we felt comfortable. Nathan took on our case, even though other firms told us it wasn't worth their time - in addition, Nathan handled this work promptly, professionally, and with a great sense of humor and patience. Nathan accomplished in 3 weeks what another firm couldn't complete in 3 years. Thank you to Nathan for singularly stellar service and for effective work at an unbeatable price.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Makena kamakani
I highly recommend Myles for anyone seeking top-notch legal representation. His expertise, professionalism, and commitment to his clients are truly impressive. Myles took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided clear, effective guidance throughout the entire process. His dedication and attention to detail ensured a favorable outcome. If you need a skilled and reliable lawyer, Myles is the one to trust.
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04 Oct, 2021 by Chef zz
Col Thomas D. Farell is the brightest litigation lawyer I have ever encounter from
Around the Globe . Mr Farell is a gentlemen , a scholar and one the best attorneys you will
Wish to Have on your side . He is straightforward, tell you how it is and he is 99.9% correct . He has extensive knowledge of the law and he has integrity . He represented me In one of the bizarre, complicated cases In the state of hawaii against a legion of lawyers and at the end after a brutal 48 months he triumphs .
Hire him I put my money on it
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30 Jul, 2021 by Suzanna hall
Tom took on my case of coercive control. We settled a TRO, a cross TRO and a Paternity in 2 hearings. The father of my child is a police officer and really knew every card to play the system. Tom got me my child, child support, back support, and has held my hand through CPS interrogations, and every negative card my baby’s dad threw at me. He sees right through him. This process wasn’t easy for me, and I’m very young, and of course I made many bad choices and mistakes, but tom handled them all. Like I said, he stayed by my side through a CPS interrogation that was extremely biased. I will forever be grateful to this man for standing up for me in ways nobody else has ever stood up for me. My reputation and credibility was being slaughtered very quickly. Tom handled it. Period. End.
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15 May, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Farrell help me with a security clearance issue. I believe he is the only attorney in Hawaii who deals with these issues. He was the consummate professional and he helped me provide a thorough response. Most importantly, I won my case.
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19 Jul, 2024 by Yoona oh
I was referred to Mr.Sink’s office through HSBA, and just had a phone consultation regards to employment issue I was going through. They got back to me very fast, and everything was really straightforward. I gained lots of clarity and support from him. I decided not to pursue the lawsuit because mine wasn’t going to make a strong case after all. Now I know who to contact if our family need legal advices. Thank you for your service!
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28 May, 2024 by Rich legaspi
Long overdue review! Andrew was first class from start to finish and garnered an outcome we are very much content with. First and foremost, thank you Andrew for even taking us on as your clients.
Very caring individual and made us feel comfortable knowing he is putting all his efforts into each case. He is fair and straightforward. Responses to any questions we had was very quick and exceptional.
We are very much grateful with his work and are happy to know he will continue to have our backs in the future.
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19 Mar, 2024 by Oberle wedding
I can’t say enough good things about Andrew. He has helped my family in multiple situations and truly has the best interests of his clients in mind. Straightforward and beyond fair.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Midnight sui generis (bjh of horsin around)
Got what I wanted and a little extra😉 The office gives early 2000’s disorganized musty school office but it’s there. Jeffy jeff was such a treat. I made this to remember him always 🤍🖤🤍 RIP to your pro bono family lawyer, but he’s built different 😘🤤
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15 Feb, 2024 by Debra kaawalauole
Super professional, and quickly completed our court case hearing. Yes, they were pricey, but we paid for quality work. I would always recommend this law firm to others. They helped get the adoption of our son done in a timely and efficient manner. They communicated with us constantly, and kept us in the loop. They provided all the essential paper work for us, as well as helped navigate the filling out of certain documents. Very knowledgeable attorneys, and satisfied with the work that was completed.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Dayne kaawalauole
We worked with Shannon and it’s crazy to think anyone would have negative things to say about her or this law firm. They have been nothing but efficient and professional in helping with my son’s adoption case. Yea we paid a pretty penny but truthfully it was worth every cent. 10/10 would recommend. Mahalo nui for all of your guys help!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Midnight sui generis (bjh of horsin around)
Got what I wanted and a little extra😉 The office gives early 2000’s disorganized musty school office but it’s there. Jeffy jeff was such a treat. I made this to remember him always 🤍🖤🤍 RIP to your pro bono family lawyer, but he’s built different 😘🤤
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15 Feb, 2024 by Debra kaawalauole
Super professional, and quickly completed our court case hearing. Yes, they were pricey, but we paid for quality work. I would always recommend this law firm to others. They helped get the adoption of our son done in a timely and efficient manner. They communicated with us constantly, and kept us in the loop. They provided all the essential paper work for us, as well as helped navigate the filling out of certain documents. Very knowledgeable attorneys, and satisfied with the work that was completed.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Dayne kaawalauole
We worked with Shannon and it’s crazy to think anyone would have negative things to say about her or this law firm. They have been nothing but efficient and professional in helping with my son’s adoption case. Yea we paid a pretty penny but truthfully it was worth every cent. 10/10 would recommend. Mahalo nui for all of your guys help!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Midnight sui generis (bjh of horsin around)
Got what I wanted and a little extra😉 The office gives early 2000’s disorganized musty school office but it’s there. Jeffy jeff was such a treat. I made this to remember him always 🤍🖤🤍 RIP to your pro bono family lawyer, but he’s built different 😘🤤
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15 Feb, 2024 by Debra kaawalauole
Super professional, and quickly completed our court case hearing. Yes, they were pricey, but we paid for quality work. I would always recommend this law firm to others. They helped get the adoption of our son done in a timely and efficient manner. They communicated with us constantly, and kept us in the loop. They provided all the essential paper work for us, as well as helped navigate the filling out of certain documents. Very knowledgeable attorneys, and satisfied with the work that was completed.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Dayne kaawalauole
We worked with Shannon and it’s crazy to think anyone would have negative things to say about her or this law firm. They have been nothing but efficient and professional in helping with my son’s adoption case. Yea we paid a pretty penny but truthfully it was worth every cent. 10/10 would recommend. Mahalo nui for all of your guys help!
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20 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Sweet guy but doesn't respond to any calls or emails. Will go weeks without hearing anything. I will leave voicemail after voicemail and nothing. Sits and says we have a good case yet doesn't do anything to move forward and finish it. Always has an excuse on why I haven't heard from him in 4 weeks. You get what you pay for. Cheap price for cheap work.
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30 Sep, 2023 by Darcy treadwell
Guy is the most knowledgeable and well-versed attorney I have ever encountered, truly a master at his craft. His communication is second to none and the amount he cares for each of his clients is remarkable. If you are ever in any legal trouble, this is the person you want in your corner. He has my highest recommendation.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Matthew flowers
27 Jun, 2024 by Midnight sui generis (bjh of horsin around)
Got what I wanted and a little extra😉 The office gives early 2000’s disorganized musty school office but it’s there. Jeffy jeff was such a treat. I made this to remember him always 🤍🖤🤍 RIP to your pro bono family lawyer, but he’s built different 😘🤤
Read more
15 Feb, 2024 by Debra kaawalauole
Super professional, and quickly completed our court case hearing. Yes, they were pricey, but we paid for quality work. I would always recommend this law firm to others. They helped get the adoption of our son done in a timely and efficient manner. They communicated with us constantly, and kept us in the loop. They provided all the essential paper work for us, as well as helped navigate the filling out of certain documents. Very knowledgeable attorneys, and satisfied with the work that was completed.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Dayne kaawalauole
We worked with Shannon and it’s crazy to think anyone would have negative things to say about her or this law firm. They have been nothing but efficient and professional in helping with my son’s adoption case. Yea we paid a pretty penny but truthfully it was worth every cent. 10/10 would recommend. Mahalo nui for all of your guys help!
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06 Sep, 2024 by Emily belloso
01 Aug, 2024 by Joseph
I can’t thank Edward Smith enough for his incredible support during a very challenging time. When I needed him most, he showed up during my civil TRO hearing and knew exactly what to say to ensure I didn’t sabotage my own case. His professionalism and ability to navigate the legal world with ease were truly impressive.
Edward Smith fought tirelessly against my wife’s demands, which were more than I could afford, and he wouldn’t settle for anything less than fair. His dedication and expertise made all the difference in my case. If you’re looking for a lawyer who will stand by you and fight for your best interests, look no further than Edward Smith. Highly recommended!
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09 Jul, 2024 by Christian brown
I've had an absolutely terrible experience. He took a 5.5k retainer, my case was moved to Canadian Courts, and now he's failing to respond, not returning the retainer, and appears to be attempting to steal my money.
These actions have been preventing me from acquiring the appropriate legal representation.
I strongly advise staying away from this law firm.
UPDATE:
He ended up padding the bill when asked for a refund of the retainer. Charged me for text messages and emails that he never responded to including messages listed below were I requested my funds be returned.
"You are negatively impacting my ability to secure legal counsel and leaving me with no other
options but to explore pursuing a civil case against your firm.
If my money isn't returned this week, I'll be pursuing a civil case as well as filing a complaint
with the Hawaii State Bar Association. This is absolutely ridiculous." CHARGED me $55.
"Are you planning on returning the funds at all?
It's very concerning that my requests have gone unanswered." NO RESPONSE and CHARGED another $55.
"Good morning,
We secured a lawyer in Ontario to handle the extradition/child custody. Would it be possible to
return the remainder of the retainer? If the case ends up coming to Hawaii, we can send resend
a retainer. Funds are just tight at the moment." NO RESPONSE and CHARGED another $55.
"Hello,
Are you able to help me formulate the response to the OCL report? This is my draft so far.
OCL Response .docx" NO RESPONSE and CHARGED another $55.
I think everyone can see the trend. I strongly advise looking elsewhere for a lawyer.
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What a Child Custody Lawyer Can Do for You
A child custody lawyer specializes in helping parents navigate legal matters related to the custody and care of their children, particularly in the context of divorce, separation, or other family disputes. These lawyers assist with determining custody arrangements, drafting parenting plans, and advocating for your rights in court. They also help resolve disputes over physical custody (where the child lives), legal custody (who makes decisions for the child), visitation rights, and modifications to existing custody orders.
Whether you're going through a divorce or need to change an existing custody arrangement, a child custody lawyer can help you understand your rights and protect your child's best interests throughout the legal process.
When Should I Hire a Child Custody Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child custody lawyer in several situations, especially when disputes arise or complex legal issues affect your parental rights. Some common reasons to hire a child custody lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: If you're going through a divorce or separation and need to establish custody and visitation arrangements, a lawyer can help ensure the custody order reflects your child's best interests.
- Disputed custody cases: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody or visitation terms, a lawyer can advocate for your rights in court and help you develop a strong case.
- Modification of custody orders: If you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to changes in circumstances (e.g., relocation, changes in the child’s needs), a lawyer can help file a modification request.
- Parental alienation: If the other parent is interfering with your relationship with your child, a lawyer can help address these issues through legal action.
- Domestic violence or abuse: If there is a history of domestic violence or abuse, a lawyer can help protect you and your child by requesting restraining orders and advocating for appropriate custody arrangements.
- Grandparent or third-party custody: If you are a grandparent or another relative seeking custody or visitation rights, a lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
- Paternity disputes: In cases where paternity is in question, a lawyer can assist with establishing or challenging paternity, which may affect custody and visitation rights.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help protect your parental rights and ensure that the custody arrangement is in your child's best interests.
What Does a Child Custody Lawyer Do?
A child custody lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents resolve custody disputes and secure favorable custody arrangements for their children. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing custody petitions: Helping you file the necessary paperwork to request custody or visitation rights and ensuring all legal procedures are followed.
- Negotiating custody agreements: Assisting in negotiating custody and visitation arrangements, often working toward a mutually beneficial parenting plan without going to court.
- Representing you in court: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody terms, representing you in court by presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Drafting parenting plans: Helping you draft a comprehensive parenting plan that outlines the schedule for physical custody, decision-making responsibilities, and visitation.
- Handling child support issues: Assisting with related issues such as child support, ensuring that financial obligations are properly calculated and enforced.
- Modifying custody orders: Helping you request a modification from the court if you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to significant life changes.
- Mediating custody disputes: Acting as a mediator to help both parents reach an agreement on custody and visitation without the need for litigation.
How Are Child Custody Lawyers Paid?
Child custody lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case, the time involved, and the nature of the legal work. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child custody lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer's experience and location. The total cost depends on the time spent preparing documents, negotiating, and representing you in court.
- Flat fee: For simple custody matters or uncontested custody agreements, some lawyers may offer a flat fee for specific services, such as drafting a parenting plan or filing a custody petition.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount varies based on the expected complexity and duration of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers may offer reduced fees or pro bono (free) services for clients with limited financial means, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or other serious issues.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are included.
How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child custody lawyer depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case, whether it’s contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested custody cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and any negotiations.
- Contested custody cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the issues, the need for expert testimony, and the time spent in litigation.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or complex custody disputes.
- Mediation services: If both parents agree to work through mediation, costs typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for the mediation process.
Always ask for a clear cost estimate during your consultation to ensure that you understand the total legal fees and payment structure.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Custody Lawyer
Before hiring a child custody lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Some key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with child custody cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, especially if your case involves complex issues like domestic violence, relocation, or paternity disputes. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees for certain services, or requires a retainer, and ask for an estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Inquire about the expected timeline from filing the petition to reaching an agreement or going to trial. -
Will you personally handle my case?
Ensure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
Can we pursue mediation or alternative dispute resolution?
Ask whether the lawyer recommends mediation or other forms of dispute resolution to avoid a lengthy court battle.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Custody Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child custody lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and child custody cases.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge the lawyer’s professionalism and success in child custody matters.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on custody cases.
- Check for certifications: Look for lawyers who are board-certified in family law or have memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) or local family law sections.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a child custody lawyer, come prepared with relevant documents and information:
- Court orders or existing custody agreements: Bring copies of any existing custody or visitation orders for the lawyer to review.
- Communication with the other parent: Provide copies of emails, texts, or letters regarding custody, visitation, or disputes.
- List of your child’s needs: Prepare a list of your child’s specific needs, such as medical care, education, and extracurricular activities.
- Timeline of the case: Outline key events related to your custody case, including changes in living situations or parental involvement.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the custody process, legal fees, and the lawyer’s strategy for your case.
By being well-prepared, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible advice for protecting your rights and your child’s well-being.
