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18 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
If you are a father and have a high conflict ex who does everything in her power to limit or stop your parenting time, do not use this woman as a parental consultant. She will follow the mothers visitation agreement to a T, but will change yours to fit what the mother wants. She charges attorney fees. Fathers, just take your ex back to court and get more parenting time Ordered. Get a lawyer and don’t waste your money on this lady.
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15 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
She sugar coated everything and mislead me at the beginning. She was favoring the other party. She wasted my money and messed up my case.
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14 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Did nothing except send emails and bogus phone call and was charging $250 an hour for a work that could have been done by an office clerk.
She was siding with the other party.
What kind of lawyer do this???
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3.5
2 Reviews
3.0
2 Reviews
02 Sep, 2021 by Tom nelson
I've left 2 emails & 3 voicemails asking him to get in touch with me,, he hasn't updated his answering machine from August 2021. I get that he may be a busy person but how hard is it to return a voicemail/email saying you won't be able to help with my situation.
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26 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Kari is a great attorney who zealously represented me during my divorce. She is very knowledgeable and represented me in a very professional manner. She has pride in her work and takes the time to show that she cares for me (her client). Kari responds immediately to emails and phone calls. Kari consulted with prior to any court proceeding to ensure that she represented my interests and wishes. She is very passionate about her work, the law and serving her clients. Her rates are very reasonable and I would highly recommend her for any family law or estate case.
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16 Jun, 2018 by Paulette meuffels
He knows what he is doing, good man!!
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22 Mar, 2024 by Lula paloozah
Always taking "vacations" with your money. Stalls, does a lot of "busy work" and slick talking to make sure it looks like he's doing something. Commits perjury overall good lawyer if you are a deadbeat trying to make it look like you are not.
So really 3 stars.
but 1 star for honest parents.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Joshua jacob
Hello I'm a single father and the twin cities. My son's mother has made it very difficult for me to be in my son's life. I speak from experience. Travis is a true gladiator! When representing his clients he spares no expense when fighting for you to be in your child's life. It is an honor to recommend him at the highest levels of expectation. Fortunately for me I have Travis on my side who has years of practice in the justice system, and has the experience and not just family law, business law, and criminal defense law with a appellate court practice. Literally at One stop shop. He takes the time to explain best possible outcomes, as well as the realities of least possible outcomes. In addition to this his retainer and hourly rate are very reasonable. I strongly recommend his services and legal support to anyone in my network in need of the best representation in the legal market. Thank you for reading!
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04 Nov, 2023 by Jackie holton
Doesn't send itemized bills..... takes your retainer doesn't follow through or answer calls.Also previous history and got in trouble for this very behavior.......uses his divorce and sons story to make u feel he relates.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Lula paloozah
Always taking "vacations" with your money. Stalls, does a lot of "busy work" and slick talking to make sure it looks like he's doing something. Commits perjury overall good lawyer if you are a deadbeat trying to make it look like you are not.
So really 3 stars.
but 1 star for honest parents.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Joshua jacob
Hello I'm a single father and the twin cities. My son's mother has made it very difficult for me to be in my son's life. I speak from experience. Travis is a true gladiator! When representing his clients he spares no expense when fighting for you to be in your child's life. It is an honor to recommend him at the highest levels of expectation. Fortunately for me I have Travis on my side who has years of practice in the justice system, and has the experience and not just family law, business law, and criminal defense law with a appellate court practice. Literally at One stop shop. He takes the time to explain best possible outcomes, as well as the realities of least possible outcomes. In addition to this his retainer and hourly rate are very reasonable. I strongly recommend his services and legal support to anyone in my network in need of the best representation in the legal market. Thank you for reading!
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04 Nov, 2023 by Jackie holton
Doesn't send itemized bills..... takes your retainer doesn't follow through or answer calls.Also previous history and got in trouble for this very behavior.......uses his divorce and sons story to make u feel he relates.
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21 Mar, 2023 by Steve johnson
Terrible, look elsewhere. She will extend out the process as long as she can and charge alot of money along the way. She is not trustworthy, do not believe in what she says, nearly all of it turns out to be lies in the end
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11 Nov, 2022 by Mitch ko
09 Jan, 2022 by Cheri coleman
07 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Jodi Exsted was my son’s father’s attorney. She was rude and unprofessional. She had so many important facts wrong. Due to their negligence, I was able to win my case against her.
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10 May, 2016 by Rod
As a man seeking full custody of my son, and in Anoka Country, none the less, I could not be more thrilled with the outcome. I now have full physical custody of my son and no more child support. I dreamed about this day for years. Jodi is a strategic planner and navigated my case very well. Jodi took the time to listen and to understand my case.
Jodi is a fighter and takes a practical approach to custody matters. She worked hard for me and doesn't overbill like most lawyers.
My day in court ended with a positive outcome. My son is delighted that he will be home with me most of the time.
Very happy with the outcome and I would recommend Jodi to anyone with custody problems.
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22 Nov, 2012 by John clark iii
Was very pleased with Jodi and her advice in a very difficult divorce and custody battle with my kids kidnapped by my ex-wife and taken to Wyoming.
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07 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Erin was very attentive and knowledgeable during my divorce process. She was supportive and kind as well which is important during a divorce. She took time to calmly explain things that were happening during the entire process when things were confusing and stressful. She was willing to listen and was responsive to emails, messages and phone calls. She was a much needed voice of reason during a very difficult time for myself and my family. I would highly recommend her services. Her office and support staff are also friendly and professional.
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01 Jul, 2014 by S
After years of working with Erin on grand parenting rights ,she did get them for me. However after tens of thousands of dollars in attorney and court fees ,Erin would not file my stayed order of con-tempt on the other party that would"nt follow the court order.Erin sent me a letter of withdrawal of counsel notice. My on going battle with other party still a nightmare, broke without counsel.
:
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10 Oct, 2013 by Linda
If I had to pick just a couple words for Erin I'd choose intelligent, strategic, and honest. She was incredibly thoughtful about picking strategies that worked in my case--she knew when and how hard to push, when to wait and not "take the bait," and when to change approaches. I had an ex who was abusive and continued those tactics through the legal system, to the extent possible, and she kept me calm through what was a really dark time, I am lucky she was my guide and advocate through it. And we won! I'd recommend her to anyone in a child custody/child support case.
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01 Feb, 2019 by Trevor
I retained Niecie M Strand after having 2 previous lawyers in my high conflict divorce. I wish I had retained Niecie right from the start, for she was given a tough situation with a lot to cover in a short amont of time. She went to work, and work she did. There were several times when Niecie and myself would be on the phone discussing my divorce, and she would have an email sent out to me, the Judge and the Petitoner’s side, ready to review, before we got off the phone. I know that sounds unrealistic but it the truth or close to it. She is Sharp, and on top of it in mediation, court or any situation that came up. Niecie also has the ability to negotiate hard on your behave, she’s not just a middle man. She is tough, Gritty, and will go to bat for you. I now set the bar at her standards if I ever need a lawyer again. I highly recommend Niecie M Stand to anyone in a divorce and hire her early.
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13 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Not only did my fiancé not get what he wanted! But they clearly seem to favor the opposing side! And to think we paid 3,000 up front for what ?! He didn’t even get what he wanted. And they’re asking for an additional 900$, do not go with Cordell! Was not worth it only thing that can happen is if they can actually give my fiancé his money worth! Doubt that’ll happen though.
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29 Sep, 2024 by Shelly
Meagan misinformed me and told me she could mediate my divorce. She is a substitute teacher which says a lot in itself. I was a teacher in the same building she subbed in, and she never came to visit me, even when I asked her to. She took my money, and did nothing for me besides fill out some initials paperwork where she put in incorrect information. She is very distracted when talking to her, and the conversations are so short that is sends your head reeling. She was absolutely pathetic in every way.
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27 Dec, 2023 by Kelly j
Not only is Meagan is professional she has a huge heart to help and do what is right by her clients. She is a great listener and has the ability to identify circumstances beyond the issues on the surface. I highly recommned Meagan for your next leagl needs. Thank you for all you did in our case Meagan, we could not have done it without your expertise!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Nate mitchell
I hired one of the partners. Awful and incompetent. Recommendation given to judge was not possible under statute and was essentially thrown out. Waste of money. Biased. Don’t hire
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10 Mar, 2024 by Melisa mauricio
Matt Beaumier and his team are so kind and helpful. They truly care about the clients. They answered all my questions and concerns with care. I couldn’t have made it through my custody case without them. I highly recommend them.
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06 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I retained April Carlson when I couldn't find another lawyer to represent me. She seemed like she'd put in effort, but that quickly vanished. During mediations, she had nothing to say, or helpful advice. Even though I was adamantly against an evaluation, I felt I had no other options. That evaluation cost me another year and a half without my child. When talking with her about the evaluation on the phone, she gave me the wrong information that wasn't in it. She wrote up the mediation agreement wrong which cost me custody and made my case miserably more difficult. April carlson will waste years of your life in court by her own mess ups.
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19 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
April was a complete professional handling my case. She was knowledgeable and kept me informed through the entire process. Not only was she knowledgeable but very personal and made me feel very comfortable the entire time. Great lawyer and I would recommend her to anyone in need of legal services.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Paul
Mr. (Daryl) Bail is a joke. Hiring him means you're overpaying for legal services and there are plenty of other better lawyers in the area that cost THOUSANDS less. No sense of ethics whatsoever. He's openly disclosed to other people the amounts of money he has drained from his clients. Client confidentiality means nothing to this guy. I totally get why he's not a named partner at PHB. He'd ruin the firm's reputation. When looking for a law firm to represent you I suggest looking anywhere else.
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10 May, 2024 by Francisco menchaca
I was very pleased how everything turned out to be. I’m not going to lie, I was very nervous and scared for the worst and thought that I didn’t have a chance. But with the help with my lawyer and the whole team from Patton Hoversten And Berg this wouldn’t be possible. So I want to give a huge Thank You to Joe Heinrichs and Andrea Lembke for helping me get through this all the way, none of this would be possible if it wasn’t for you guys. Thank you Patton Hoversten And Berg!
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13 Dec, 2023 by Cindy moll
I had to appear in court for speeding. I hired this firm, and my case was assigned to Joe Heinrichs. Mr. Heinrichs was knowledgeable, professional, and effective. I believe Mr. Heinrichs secured the best possible outcome for me. I would recommend this firm, and especially Mr. Heinrichs to anyone in a heartbeat. I even thought the fee was reasonable.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Takeysha robinson
I've been waiting 2 almost 3 years to get assistance with my divorce. They contacted me several months ago saying I'm on top of the list. I haven't heard from anyone since I've left several messages. This is ridiculous at this point!
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05 Jan, 2024 by Lovey-4ever angelique
Very helpful and kind.
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16 Aug, 2023 by Maureen lauer
No response to my message. I will continue to leave more. Disappointing.
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27 Oct, 2022 by Carlos maldonado
If you are considering hiring this Law firm and you love your family, I urge to reconsider, read all the reviews bellow this one they are really bad, She (Julie Seymour ) it states things we didn't agree and didn't talk being a lawyer you should judge for your self, I will let you judge this situation and consider if its a good fit for your family. A person that doesn't pay her house cleaners to threat, don't respect agreements and change them to her convenience. I strongly recommend consider doing buissnes with this law firm. You can judge people how they behave with others and most important if its in your own home and family.
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05 Feb, 2021 by Robin johnson
Spent thousands of dollars and got nowhere. Lawyer was doing her own thing in her time. I didn’t feel she was working for me or my sons best interests. I do not recommend this law office
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03 May, 2019 by Samuel ireri
Initially I retained Julie as my attorney and ended up getting Mary. They promised alot but didn't deliver to expectation. She missed child support court date. Of all court appearances....I walked in thinking I was would have my lawyer with me but no one was there, no counter motions were filed as expected and as promised.
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22 May, 2021 by Nicoleva vu
20 Jan, 2020 by Thomas vue
Was expecting more with the money he asked for.
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06 Aug, 2019 by John doe
He lost my case. Not so sure if it was intentional or it's just that he's not good enough. It's a waste of money if you ask me. Maybe it was the way that the system was set up... His ex-partner is the same.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Karina helgesen aase
08 Nov, 2019 by Debra
Esther has been my attorney for over 25 years. She has been helpful, reassuring, capable.
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21 Apr, 2019 by Rebecca johnson
Knutson, Flynn, & Deans have the best lawyers. They are thorough, professional, and hardworking. They are absolutely outstanding. Anyone who says otherwise has just been beaten in court by them.
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20 Apr, 2023 by Sarah potts
I do not recommend.
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02 Jul, 2022 by Sam bearden
Rude lawyer with a pretty scary office.
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09 Aug, 2019 by Patricia wiseman
He's my lawyer.
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14 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Referee Baker oversaw my divorce case. Right from the beginning she showed extreme impatience, and favoritism. There was a double set of standards whereas one side consistently violated the stipulations, yet when brought to her attention, no enforcement was taken. Yet when the opposing side was simply late on filing and contested, she immediately ruled in favor and gave short timeliness. Tens of thousands of dollars were wasted in legal fees in providing undeniable facts, yet she took the position of it no longer matters. It was simply unbelievable to see how consistently she would make rulings on minuscule issues of little concern, yet turn a blind eye to other huge financial issues of squandered resources by the opposing party. I have dealt with many referees in settling many small claim actions regarding unpaid client accounts over decades of business management, and by far she has clearly displayed bias regardless of the facts presented. One thing for sure, you will win or lose simply based upon one thing right from the beginning. Which Attorney & Client does she favor. The facts otherwise are irrelevant.
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14 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Gail told me I did not have to take off work for the court date, she would be there to handle everything.
She didn't even show up and of course I lost.
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27 Sep, 2013 by Robin/kesha
No communication throughout the process, Never tried to protect my child even though abuser was charged with felony. Worked against me with all issues. Was late twice to court leaving me very anxious at the start of the court proceedings. Would not listen to my concerns. Always seemed to be for the other side. Very disorganized and seemed nervous when opposing attorney presented lies against me.
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25 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
90% of what your read is right on with Sue. I replayed her words in my head for weeks after. I made sure she know what I thought when I walked out of court. I looked out the 2nd floor window of the Mpls court house. I saw an old woman pulling her black bag down the sidewalk and thought, how can she sleep. Had 3 different attorneys in one yrs work on my case. All 3 quit. 3 mediations, At one, we sat downtown St Paul for 2 hours, nothing was done. I have now found out a 500K life Ins policy, 400k spent on a gf, and more was never discovered. Can't afford anyone to get my unpaid settlement. Everyone she has work on your case is a friend, They all give each other Business. Monica was the only person in the office that had my back and stayed on my case. We lost Monica to cancer. What a fighter! Look a her Law office now. Down to 1 attorney and the worst PL.
I had my forensic accountant tell me in the settlement meeting, I should get a 10,000 refund. 75 characters is not enough.
Drive as fare away from 494+394 as possible. Beside my marriage, M Sue Law is the worst decision of my life.
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09 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Just in it for the money. Won't settle unless it benefits her financially. Do not use!! You've been warned.
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02 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
If you want to lose all your hard earned money and children’s financial security hire this law firm. Just ask around and you will know how this woman is and what she represents. Avoid at all costs.
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30 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Seven months into my custody battle (and a ridiculous $22K spent with little to show for it), Mr Rolsch started ignoring all communication. He then suddenly withdrew during a VERY critical time in my case, leaving me with no Atty or money. I am obviously not happy with his services and do not recommend him. His legal assistant however, is great!
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20 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Steve to represent me in my child custody case. At the time I had no idea that he was the same attorney that represented my uncle in a divorce were my he lost almost everything. He also grew up with the opposing party in my custody case. I had thought that he was a genuine straight up attorney that was good at his job. I took out a loan for $3,000 and that was gone in no time but I thought to myself that custody cases are expensive and that is the way it has to be. Another $5,000 and I now owe him a thousand still. We never once made it to court and he was sitting there billing me for calls he never had to make to me in the first place because he knew my answer to settling. I smartened up and got another attorney to handle the rest of my case. I hope as many people as possible get a chance to read this before they hire him. I also plan on speaking to an attorney about taking him to court to be repaid the money that was spent on the services that he did not deliver on. To all I wish the best. God Bless You.
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24 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I'm not just a bitter former client I can justify my rating. Trustworthy, I had to call Mr rolsch to remind him of my court date in which we never ended up speaking with each other prior to that date. Responsive, Months went by without speaking with Mr rolsch and when I would try to call him the only response I would get was a $75 bill for listening to my voice mail but never did hear from him. Knowledgeable, he billed me for hours and hours of research for a dwi case. That is the bread and butter of any defense attorney, why would he need to spend that much time researching unless he was just padding the bill. He never did come up with even a remote defense plan even after I offered a few avenues which I still regret pursuing after speaking with other attorneys. Kept me informed, I was never even sure he would show up in court not to mention have anything to tell me about my case.
BEWARE
when I first spoke with Mr rolsch I explained to him that I could pay him only an agreed upon amount (already 2 times higher than everyone else) he said that was fine unless we had to go to trial. Six months after my case was over I received a bill for 3 times that amount. He ended up taking me to small claims for it. When I showed up for court I found that the entire courtroom was filled with his former clients with the same story. I was always told you pay for what you get and that's why I went with rolsch but there isn't one aspect of his business conduct I would recommend.
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26 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Tom for a family court case as it appeared he would be a top lawyer from their website. I found the actual experience with Tom and his paralegal, Tammy, to be very poor. Tom was terrible in court at a trial, arrived unprepared, and routinely made back door deals with opposing counsel without my consent or knowledge. He also spent more time watching his payment rather than preparing for
his cases. His paralegal was very unprofessional as well. When I switched to a different attorney, who happened to be less expensive than Tom, I started winning in court and receiving favorable rulings. Steer clear of this firm as unfortunately they have become more money focused rather than advocating for their clients.
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27 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
I had a horrific experience with Tom Tuft as my attorney. Attorneys should protect their clients-that was not the case with Tom Tuft. Despite numerous and repeated requests to Tom Tuft to consult with me prior to making decisions regarding my case, Tom Tuft acted and made decisions in numerous instances without consulting me. Tom Tuft was terrible with respect to communications--he routinely failed to return phone calls and emails, failed to forward emails regarding my case to me, and discussed strategy with opposing counsel without my knowledge or prior approval. More importantly, Tom Tuft disclosed personal information about me without my knowledge or approval on numerous occasions. When I requested that Tom Tuft communicate with me prior to making decisions and requested that a portion of my bill be discounted due to the many errors he'd made, Tom Tuft abruptly withdrew as my counsel--without even providing the courtesy of a phone call or any explanation for his actions. Nightmare.
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23 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I worked with Sonja for a number of months. Ms. Larson represented me in my divorce. She failed to mention critical details regarding asset valuation that are elementary to even the most inexperienced attorney. Additionally, she clearly had a sexist tilt when advocating for my custody rights. Ultimately, I terminated her employment but not before much damage was done. I do not recommend Sonja C. Larson.
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04 Aug, 2018 by Bruce
Cheryl has an overinflated opinion of herself that gets in the way of reaching a settlement. After almost a year I fired her and hired a new attorney. The matter was resolved in also a month. If you want to pay Cheryl for nothing then she’s good for you.
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07 Aug, 2014 by Jane
Mr. Nolan was ill prepared and did not appear to be aware of all the facets of the law to properly assist me. He did not keep his promises to me; and did not respond in a timely manner. Thus I paid more than I needed to for his work.
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14 Jan, 2013 by Derrick
Paid nearly 10k to have her represent me. Only showed at 2 mediations. The second mediation was postponed but i was not informed of this so I wasted half a day trying to find out what was going on. Rarely answered her voicemails from me and would tell me she did not get them. That was several times. Did not even try to go after my wifes company or bring up active appreciation which I heard about from 3 other attorneys after she dropped me. But she was nice enough to offer my 401k up to compensate for my wifes marital debts. I would ask for any advice on how to get through this process and got no advice but was charged for every call or email i assume because what I spent seems brutally high for someone to only show up at 2 mediations for a few hours each time and at the end of the second mediation, i was told that I would be allowed to only keep my car I bought when I was 17 long before my marriage while my wife was allowed to hide her 1/3 of the family business she was given while we were together. I am convinced that she honestly did not care what happened to me at all for the last 4 months I was paying her. I understand that it's a divorce and not all roses but she did absolutely nothing for me. The things she was telling me to agree to in the second mediation were truly insulting and I was speechless. I did not agree to anything and the letter of withdrawal of councel was just as insulting when she told me how close i was to settling. If she had her way, i would have had nothing and unfortunately i am almost 10k poorer. Before the divorce...
After talking to two other attorneys, i was told I could probably do a better job representing myself and i should just go to court because i was being offered nothing by my wifes attorney so i couldn't do any worse than that...
Words cannot describe how disappointed I am in choosing her.
Very poor service, but had the excuses at the ready and lied to my face to cover her own tail.
I could go on and on with this... But i guess I can sum it up as without a doubt, the worst money I ever spent and I plan to continue to spread the word on how I feel about her.:-(
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20 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
We were very disappointed in the quality of Kurtis representing us. We wrote 90% of our own petition, gather our own MPD reports for our case. He made several grammar errors in our petition and we had to proof read everything!!! Not a good experience at all. My stress was through the roof!! I had to defend myself on my own.
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11 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
This women is only after your money! Incompetent! Will bleed you dry. With no results! I can not recommend her to represent my cat.
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24 Nov, 2021 by Ryan
I hired Mr. Jorgensen in June of this year (2021). Was very transparent about my downfalls and my wife's qualities as a amazing mother. (Divorce/custody) case. He seemed confident as soon as he knew he'd be getting a retainer fee of $3500 that week so we decided that this was the man who would fight for my rights...
Probably the worst decision of my life. This man did nothing. I had no say in what I wanted, no say on what I was already willing to give. Instead he would tell me about what the judge "wanted to hear" and "what typically" happens in a case like mine. Never once was I able to object to anything. Never once asked what I wanted or wanted to know. He literally took it upon himself to print out a jenaric questionnaire asking about my wife's taxes and several other things that pertain to a us citizen (which she most definitely was not, and he knew). Just ridiculous questions! As I thought hers were to me but even know I specifically asked Mr Jorgensen why I needed to answer questions about things yrs before my wife and I were together?? So after paying him a lot of money and seeing absolutely nothing done in return on my behalf, I expressed my concerns with him about him not putting in much if any effort he decides to withdraw council 2 weeks before pre trial... because "life is too short to deal with this"
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11 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Ms. Donner was hired to represent me in a divorce. She did NO appreciable work on my file. The only thing she did was make excuses about why she hadn’t done anything. Ms. Donner could not even get simple discovery responses to the other side after months of my asking her to. She asked for 2 different continuances because she never prepared for trial. Hellmuth and Johnson did not have the staff needed to run a law office. I kept receiving other client’s documents- including confidential wage and medical records. Staff didn’t know how to obtain medical or bank information or check what was in a Sharefile link. Hellmuth and Johnson charged me $12,000 over the amount we had clearly agreed upon. Ms Donner refused to bring a motion asking for more fees as the judge had ordered her to do. Stay Away!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
This muppet is as dull as a brand new pencil. How this troglodyte is allowed to practice law, with children’s well-being at risk , is a crime. It’s hilarious to watch her empty face struggle with insults. She should be use to them at this point. Guarantee our hamster solves puzzles faster. A walking danger, a clod hop’n dullard this one… a face made for catching kickballs In gym class.
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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.
