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26 Sep, 2024 by Jerry ewalt
I would highly recommend Robert. I used him to set up my business and review / advise on negotiating an agreement. He was thorough and really looked out for my best interests. He was reasonably priced, and kept me updated along the way so I didn’t feel like he was over charging me for his time.
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17 Dec, 2022 by Gods child
Mr Harrison is the man i have used him 4xs definitely worth it
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29 Nov, 2021 by Melissa candlish
24 Sep, 2020 by Mark
The Law Office of Lisa Collins Werner helped me adopt my 3 children. The firm was very organized and friendly. Would definitely recommend this law office.
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24 Sep, 2020 by Jamie
I cannot say enough good things about Lisa Werner and her staff. They guided me through a long and painful divorce process with an abusive and bullying husband. Lisa fought hard to get me my results. Her office was with me every step of the way, especially Peggy, who always had time to listen to my concerns and answer my questions. Lisa is a great attorney, and I would hire her again (hope I don't have to) and recommend her to anyone.
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24 Sep, 2020 by Victor
THANK GOD FOR LISA WARNER! My b***h of an ex-wife kept taking me back to court for TEN!!! years trying to redo the distribution of property and take properties I'd had 20 years before I even met her. She wanted more alimony too. Ha! Lisa got it all taken care of and even got me back some of my attorneys fee. hire her!
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04 Aug, 2020 by Laura
Meghan Bodie was very compassionate, professional and made my divorce process smoother than I could have ever imagined. She took time to answer any questions I had and helped me every step of the way. I moved during the process, and she was able to complete my filing and finish everything across the distance. I highly recommend - couldn't have done it without her!
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30 Jul, 2020 by Mandy
I am a single mother of 2 children, father showed very little interest in our children and had many addictions . After father tested positive for drugs and proof of how mentally unstable dad was she made an agreement to allow our children to be supervised by grandpa who left them alone with father while he was intoxicated. Ms. Bodie, gave me terrible advise and put my infant and toddler in harm's way. She did not show up for court and sent her paralegal who told the judge " I dont know the case well enough to answer that question" even the judge responded "then why are you here" I was also wondering the same thing. I was still charged for that day also. Many emails of not being responded to. Ms. Bodie has no idea what she is doing and charged me for a bunch of paperwork that she never showed or had signed by a judge so therefore, I could not use a single document in future court situations. She was not bold, she had very little knowledge of what my rights were, and did not fight for me or my children. Honestly,
this lady is heartless and money hungry. Shame on you for taking advantage of me and my children knowing our situation Meghan... After almost 4,000 dollars later, she did not help me further my case but actually set me back almost a year and a half and STILL have not established child support and father is still playing games and not responsible for following anything court or lawyers requested. It seemed like Meghan was not for me but for the father. I also know another family that she screwed over big time and put their foster child in harm's way when they wanted to adopt and give this child a better life. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND HER OR HER LAW FIRM. I'm surprised that she had positive reviews.
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13 Nov, 2016 by Jason
It's been a hard couple of months on my family. Without a doubt, the service that Meghan Bodie provided uplifted us in our time of need. While the ebbs and flows of the case didn't always go our way, Meghan always fought for us and our family's needs.
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14 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Unfortunately it seemed as though Robin just wanted rid of my case, and at times she sided with the other attorney and didn't fight for me. She also missed crucial items in my paperwork that resulted in my owing over $10,000 that I shouldn't have. Robin is a very nice person, but I would never recommend her as an attorney.
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30 Jul, 2015 by David
Robin is someone you want in your corner. She is wonderful and helps me in every way she possibly can. If you need someone on your side talk to Robin. She is my hero.
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17 Nov, 2011 by Melissa
Mrs. Gunn and her assoc. assisted me long distance in a matter I thought unrelinquishable. She took care of all court room needs and kept me up to date via telephone conversations. I would recommend her highly. Thank You Robin for all your hard work.
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03 Apr, 2023 by Tamara
On 6.15.21 I hired Ashley to handle the adoption of my grandson that I already had legal guardianship of. I know she sent a processor in 11.21 to find the bio-father to sign over custody. From that point on she didn't do anything else on my case until I filed a complaint with the State board. Finally on 1.19.23 we went to court and she didn't have the proper paperwork. I didn't hear from her again until I hired another lawyer to finish what she started. On 3.8 she called said she was on her way to court to have the judge sign and pick up my certified copies to mail to me. I've reached out several times and as of today, 4.3.23 I still haven't gotten my copies of the adoption. Please...don't use this attorney!
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12 Jan, 2020 by Meghan
Ashley was truly a god send to our family! When our private adoption got a little sticky and the hospital was doing/saying conflicting things to the birth mother, whom had made her choice of a private adoption and chose my husband and I, Ashley truly went to bat for us! In the most respectful, tactful, but productive way she contacted the appropriate hospital attorneys and authority's to make sure our sons custody arrangement and his safety, best interest, and well-being was the number one thing everyone focused on. When our son was three days old and in the NICU, Ashley was able to meet with a judge to get us emergency custody of our son, per the birth parents wishes, so we could make appropriate medical decisions for him, visit him, and begin to bond with him before bringing him home from the hospital. Throughout our entire adoption process, Ashley made sure we were informed, prepared, and also had everything done exactly as needed for the legal side of this adoption. Our case was very unusual and we always had a million questions, emailed her pretty much weekly, spoke on the phone often, and visited her in the office with our son and no matter how many times she had answered the question before, she always explained things to us again. Aside from being an amazing attorney, who communicated often with us and kept us in the loop of where we were at in the filing process, she always showed us that she truly cared. She took interest in our personal story, why we were adopted, and she truly loves our son and he loves her even more. Any time we saw her, he was reaching for her. I’m not sure that without Ashley’s tenacity, tact, strength, and persistence that we would have our son; seeing as the hospital had some conflicting thoughts when he was born and until he was three days old. My husband and I cannot speak more highly of Ashley (and everyone At the Barnett Firm) as they truly fought not only for us, but with us to become parents. There will never be enough thanks and praise to show and tell her!
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04 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
With my case I didn’t know what to do or how to handle it but Ashley was very clear and she understood how I felt. When I hired Ashley, she was on top of everything for my case and she answered any questions I had. If I emailed her with anything, she responded within a day or two. I absolutely love Ashely and how she handled my child support case.
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08 Dec, 2020 by Ethan
At the lowest point of my life, Mr. Stansell
Helped me pick up the pieces. He was always communicative, answering calls or emails from me well outside regular hours. He offered wonderful advice and truly helped make this divorce and child custody process bearable. I cannot recommend enough.
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02 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Talked a good talk, but did very little. I never received communication, documents, returned phone calls. Was not informed of a court date, nor was the opposing counsel! Billed several thousand dollars for nothing. Left firm abruptly (I assume he was fired) which was the only positive thing that happened.
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13 Jun, 2017 by Tyler
Being faced with a divorce while on deployment, Mr. Stansell took excellent care and represented me throughout the process. He was attentive, responsive, and a calming force during a very hard time in my life. He answered all my questions and helped me to make sense of divorce proceedings when I wasn't even in the country. He helped me find contractors to do work on my home so it could be put on the market, appraisers for cars and jewelry - he really was an outstanding attorney. I highly recommend Zachariah to anyone who is looking for someone who knows their stuff, is aggressive when necessary and will represent you and your interests well, and also give honest feedback throughout the process. He is a five star attorney and worth every penny. Cannot thank him enough for what he did for me and my family.
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01 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
We retained Mrs Ogle for an important matter and was extremely disappointed in her representation. There were several times I reached out to find out the status on certain topics to no reply, ever. There were several things that she did not follow through with. I had several questions during our meeting and also the day of court and she literally told me “not now” or basically gave me a look that said shut up. She did not fight for the needs of our situation. The only time I felt confident in Mrs Ogle was when she was selling herself during the consultation. I regret hiring Mrs Ogle, she is not an aggressive attorney at all. Anyone looking to hire Mrs Ogle, I would look elsewhere. I have never written a review of any kind in my life but felt the need to save someone else from wasting their money.
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27 Jan, 2017 by Linde
I recently retained Mrs. Ogle to file divorce papers for me. She was a pleasure to work with. She did everything I asked in a timely and professional manner. Her rates were reasonable and I left satisfied with the time that it took and the end result. If you want someone on your side that doesn't make you feel like just another billable hour you would be remiss not to at least consult with her on your situation.
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31 Jul, 2021 by T.
We hired Mr. Herrera after a pleasant phone call to help my elderly mother with a landlord (slumlord). After paying his fee for a letter we had to seriously edit because it did not contain troubling elements regarding her landlord's negligence, he was difficult to reach and made excuses contrary to legal remedies we know existed.
A month after the first letter, as we waited for the landlord to take action on his dilapidated house, I hired him to write a letter to a business competitor regarding his defamation and slander. I had to write the entire thing, including state and federal laws he was ignoring, as I'd already emailed him the laws and their corresponding precedents.
Months later, after landlord had failed to live up to his own written promises, much less repair the house in a livable fashion -- which includes a failing heating and ductwork system -- Mr. Herrera told my mom to wait until winter before we could address the issue.
Seriously? Seriously.
We'd informed him, with photos, of this problem the PREVIOUS WINTER.
To get that "answer," we had to call numerous times over the course of two weeks, finally stating "we'll have to hire a new attorney if we don't hear from you today."
He took our money, wrote crappy letters, refused to any follow-up, and never stated fees for more action. Maybe he didn't want to take any action. Maybe he made his easy money and that was all he wanted. We paid for letters I could've written myself just to have his Esq. attached to them.
Wasted six months and $800 which would've been better spent on a competent lawyer. Nothing has changed since we sadly chose Mr. Herrera to "represent" us.
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15 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney after my divorce. She recommended that I try to get full custody of my 3 children because it would increase my child support. She gave me the impression that this was a no-brainer. After weeks of depositions, hiring a Psychologist to perform a custody evaluation and 2 weeks sitting in a court room trial, all at her recommendation (Her web site says most of her cases go to trial) The Judge made no changes. I was left with hundreds of thousands of dollars in attorney fees. If she would have told me this was a remote possibility, I would have never moved forward.
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12 Oct, 2012 by Angela
I was appointed Darrell sproles 6 months ago. He will not return my calls or letters.
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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.
