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25 Oct, 2024 by Sheryl jerzak
I very much recommend John's services, as I've never met such a kind & caring attorney, who never treats his clients like another number:
His services are quick, seamless, and on top of which he has also provided some added assurance in all aspects, "holding my hand" throughout the entire process. His negotiation skills are also top notch! I'm very impressed by his work & would most definitely have him be my defender again if I ever experience another unforeseen predicament.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tim lang
Working With John has been the greatest. He stuck through the toughest parts of my case with me and we overturned the odds and won! Thank you John Callahan!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Andrea holt
We were just about to give up hope on getting my boyfriend's license reinstated in IL when I contacted John Callahan this all changed. He and his associates were very helpful and understanding of our situation. They walked us through every step of the way and made it a much easier process than we had experienced trying to do it on our own.
We highly recommend John Callahan and his associates. Thank you again for all your help!!
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.9
407 Reviews
09 Nov, 2024 by Naser mohammed
I had a great experience working with Khan Nayyar and his team on my citizenship application. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. They made the whole process clear and easy to understand, and helped me every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, my application was successful and went smoothly. I highly recommend Khan Nayyar to anyone looking for help with citizenship!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Omar “okamal” kamal
Faraz Nayyar and his team are amazing, he has incredible prices and deals. Effective communication and great knowledge. I'd definitely do business with him again.
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01 Nov, 2024 by James larsen
I went with immigration attorney Omar Khan with the K1 and K2 visa process. Both Omar and his assistant Jeethna were excellent and explained the process and timeline on how everything works. Very professional and knowledgeable and recommend Omar for anyone who is in need of an immigration attorney.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Naser mohammed
I had a great experience working with Khan Nayyar and his team on my citizenship application. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. They made the whole process clear and easy to understand, and helped me every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, my application was successful and went smoothly. I highly recommend Khan Nayyar to anyone looking for help with citizenship!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Omar “okamal” kamal
Faraz Nayyar and his team are amazing, he has incredible prices and deals. Effective communication and great knowledge. I'd definitely do business with him again.
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01 Nov, 2024 by James larsen
I went with immigration attorney Omar Khan with the K1 and K2 visa process. Both Omar and his assistant Jeethna were excellent and explained the process and timeline on how everything works. Very professional and knowledgeable and recommend Omar for anyone who is in need of an immigration attorney.
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5.0
8 Reviews
4.9
407 Reviews
09 Nov, 2024 by Naser mohammed
I had a great experience working with Khan Nayyar and his team on my citizenship application. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. They made the whole process clear and easy to understand, and helped me every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, my application was successful and went smoothly. I highly recommend Khan Nayyar to anyone looking for help with citizenship!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Omar “okamal” kamal
Faraz Nayyar and his team are amazing, he has incredible prices and deals. Effective communication and great knowledge. I'd definitely do business with him again.
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01 Nov, 2024 by James larsen
I went with immigration attorney Omar Khan with the K1 and K2 visa process. Both Omar and his assistant Jeethna were excellent and explained the process and timeline on how everything works. Very professional and knowledgeable and recommend Omar for anyone who is in need of an immigration attorney.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Naser mohammed
I had a great experience working with Khan Nayyar and his team on my citizenship application. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. They made the whole process clear and easy to understand, and helped me every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, my application was successful and went smoothly. I highly recommend Khan Nayyar to anyone looking for help with citizenship!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Omar “okamal” kamal
Faraz Nayyar and his team are amazing, he has incredible prices and deals. Effective communication and great knowledge. I'd definitely do business with him again.
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01 Nov, 2024 by James larsen
I went with immigration attorney Omar Khan with the K1 and K2 visa process. Both Omar and his assistant Jeethna were excellent and explained the process and timeline on how everything works. Very professional and knowledgeable and recommend Omar for anyone who is in need of an immigration attorney.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Naser mohammed
I had a great experience working with Khan Nayyar and his team on my citizenship application. They were professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. They made the whole process clear and easy to understand, and helped me every step of the way. Thanks to their expertise, my application was successful and went smoothly. I highly recommend Khan Nayyar to anyone looking for help with citizenship!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Omar “okamal” kamal
Faraz Nayyar and his team are amazing, he has incredible prices and deals. Effective communication and great knowledge. I'd definitely do business with him again.
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01 Nov, 2024 by James larsen
I went with immigration attorney Omar Khan with the K1 and K2 visa process. Both Omar and his assistant Jeethna were excellent and explained the process and timeline on how everything works. Very professional and knowledgeable and recommend Omar for anyone who is in need of an immigration attorney.
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16 Dec, 2024 by --
The service was really good and i this law firm to anybody who needs injury and accidental help.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Jon youngren
Colin O'Malley and the entire firm worked tirelessly for years to help us reach an agreement in our personal injury case. It was clear from the start that they cared about us and our little girl (also a plaintiff), and fought to find the desired outcome. While we certainly hope to never need COKT services again, we are confident that we would use them again in a heartbeat, and we would recommend anyone in need of representation to seek out COKT to handle their case.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Montoria mays
02 Jan, 2025 by Tracy cooley
I found STG law listed on a flier at the Dupage County Courthouse, in the family services center, after filing an order of protection against my ex for domestic violence.
STG law charged me over $20,000 within 6 months, and I was told that "some divorce cases can last years."
I was charged $700 in travel fees for my lawyer to drive to the courthouse, despite the office being located in Naperville. I was charged over $1500 each time he was in court as well. I found an honest lawyer that was shocked to know that STG was actually charging a single mom these costs, and my new lawyer informed me that lawyers cannot charge travel costs to/from their own home. My new lawyer was upfront and honest telling me that in Illinois, a divorce case will go to trial within 18 months, not lasting for years.
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27 Dec, 2024 by Tp cre
If you are seeking amicable divorce, please run away from this firm before it is too late. They pitch you amicable divorce and tell you that the process will be over even before all your retainer fee is spent, like Abeer H. Zanayed told us. But in reality, all she did was turning a simple, straightforward divorce process into a battle and racked up thousands of dollars in the process. They charge thousands of dollars to just download documents from emails or website and put them into their "folders". She seeds doubt in your mind about the potential of hidden money and send you on a goose chase, charging thousands of dollars for sending subpoenas to every financial entity in the country. It seems like their goal is to extract as much as possible from you and they have no intention of quickly finishing the process. Status hearing court dates cost thousands of dollars in both lawyers fees for nothing and this keeps going on for years.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Tracie eggert
The entire team at STG is attentive, respectful, accomplished and professional.
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14 Dec, 2022 by Pravena
John has been very helpful and supportive. Highly professional but still was caring personality too. Having right attorney makes a big difference.
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15 Jun, 2022 by Steven
John did an amazing job in helping me with getting custody of my son. John was very helpful with any questions I had and was available when ever I needed anything. I highly recommend using John as your lawyer! Thank you John
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29 Dec, 2021 by Monica
I had consulted with several divorce attorneys, and I finally was referred by a friend to John Fay. John Fay explained everything in a way that I understood and in a way that put me at ease. His extreme wealth of knowledge was very valuable and he was a trusted advisor throughout the process. There were some twists and turns throughout the journey, and John Fay navigated through the changes in a calm matter while always pushing things forward. My case seemed like it should be very simple, but it turned out to be unique and at times complicated. John always responded in a timely fashion. It was amazing to see at the end how he and his staff moved at lightning speed to finalize the divorce before the end of the year – truly amazing! The staff is wonderful - friendly, responsive, professional and helpful. I can’t say enough good things about John Fay and the staff. If you are looking for a divorce attorney, I highly recommend John Fay.
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10 Dec, 2024 by W d
Zach is very, conscientious, thorough, and responsive Plus he’s especially well versed + considerate.
He has an excellent support team which also contributes to a smooth and successful engagement.
And importantly of course, the billing was very fair and reasonable.
I definitely and strongly recommend him.
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01 Nov, 2024 by Patrick mcginnis
My Trust attorney referred me to Roscich & Martel to assist my family and me with the sale of a home by owner.
Paralegal Nick Palubiak was a huge help to my family and me from START TO FINISH. We had some twists and turns during the process and Nick was always on top of things and was always timely in his communications to us. He kept me involved with the process WHEN NEEDED and when necessary he sent me DRAFTS of communications when it was necessary for my review before they were sent to the Buyer’s attorney.
Nick involved our attorney, Zach, when needed.
We were very happy with all their assistance and we would recommend them to others for the services they provided us.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Robyn sincavage
Zachary Martel and Mercy Gustis were great. I highly recommend Roscich & Martel Law Firm, LLC.
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4.6
10 Reviews
4.5
262 Reviews
26 Dec, 2024 by Bob lund
A great Law firm. They were very responsive and complete while constructing my estate plan. Recommended.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Lisa parmenter
I wouldn’t recommend this law office. I’ve had a family court case for quite a few years and my previous attorney was moving to Chicago (LOVED her) and I needed someone new to take her place. Just on google reviews alone you’d think this would be a decent experience. I was called by Matthew Dorich who said HE would take on my case and I agreed. After that I never met Matt. They sent me a subpar attorney from Peoria to fill in. So not only was I unhappy with my representation I was paying his traveling costs when if matt would have represented me, Matt lived in Springfield. Then, they let me know I’d have to speak with a paralegal and it took them weeks to follow up with me the first time. Every time Marilu would send emails she was very rude. For the amount of money you have to pay you’d think they at least understand compassion or kindness, but they don’t. It gets worse. Noah, my subpar attorney, left the practice and no one said anything to me about it and then marilu was angry with me for emailing him with questions about my case. I will never recommend this law office. Stay away if you can.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Jesse neal
Starting a custody battle is the last thing on earth I wanted to do and was scared to death to say the least. Brianna, Tarissa and team took my case on with confidence and enthusiasm! I was treated with caring and respect. They were on point with instructions and information and made it simple and as painless as possible for me. I cant thank you guys enough for all your help!
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01 May, 2018 by Michelle
Katherine is a great attorney who knows her stuff and will not waste your time. I hired Katherine for post-decree issues that were handled quickly and professionally. She is straightforward about what you can expect from her and the courts and always relayed this to me, every step of the way. I felt heard and understood by both Katherine, and her associate Kate, who were quick to respond to questions or concerns. In the end, I walked away with great settlement. I have already recommended Katherine to several people and will continue to do so.
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25 Apr, 2018 by Sarah
Katherine Becker was excellent. She kept me super informed, and was an amazing advocate for both me and my children. Every detail was covered professionally and quickly. It was also clear in the courtroom on prove up day that Katherine was well respected by both peers and judges alike. Considering that and that her rates are quite reasonable for a skilled lawyer, I can’t recommend her enough!!
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25 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Ms. Haskins Becker and her team put my mind at ease from our first meeting and consultation. She took the time to answer all of my questions, and there were many, and I immediately felt confident in my decision to retain her firm. A divorce is never an easy process, and I had specific requirements and requests that she always respected and honored. If I had known that I could have gotten through this process so painlessly and within 7 months, I would have probably acted sooner. I would highly recommend Katherine and her team.
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29 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
I had a consultation with Jen and she is the best! I had a lot of questions and she was able to respond to them in ways that I understood. She made me feel so comfortable and was attentive to my wants and needs. I would definitely hire her!
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28 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Ms. Rice was extremely professional, possessed expert knowledge, provided intelligent and strategic consult, ultimately resulting in a successful outcome for my family. She was compassionate and empathetic to our situation,and I would highly recommend her for any and all legal consult.
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28 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Jennifer is a phenomenal advocate for her clients. She always made sure I was well informed, updated, and prepared for every possible outcome. She always made sure she answered all my questions and calmed all my concerns. I felt safe when she was representing me. I highly recommend her!
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17 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Met With Maureen to discuss a family law matter. I was so impressed with her!! She is very compassionate and a strong leader you can depend on! She is committed to your cause and will fight for your rights and win!!
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16 Dec, 2024 by --
The service was really good and i this law firm to anybody who needs injury and accidental help.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Jon youngren
Colin O'Malley and the entire firm worked tirelessly for years to help us reach an agreement in our personal injury case. It was clear from the start that they cared about us and our little girl (also a plaintiff), and fought to find the desired outcome. While we certainly hope to never need COKT services again, we are confident that we would use them again in a heartbeat, and we would recommend anyone in need of representation to seek out COKT to handle their case.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Montoria mays
16 Dec, 2024 by --
The service was really good and i this law firm to anybody who needs injury and accidental help.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Jon youngren
Colin O'Malley and the entire firm worked tirelessly for years to help us reach an agreement in our personal injury case. It was clear from the start that they cared about us and our little girl (also a plaintiff), and fought to find the desired outcome. While we certainly hope to never need COKT services again, we are confident that we would use them again in a heartbeat, and we would recommend anyone in need of representation to seek out COKT to handle their case.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Montoria mays
19 Nov, 2024 by Laulej erakrik
23 May, 2023 by Bob reed
Attorney Homer was great
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26 Jul, 2020 by Scott brongiel
We could not of been happier with this company. Tom Homer and Stephen Sotelo were extremely professional throughout our multiple dealings with them. They kept in constant communication with us and always responded promptly to any and all concerns we had. They never dropped the ball and made sure progress never ceased by being in constant contact with buyer’s attorney. They also kept us in the loop on everything through sharing all communications with us. Will and have recommended this company to anyone in need of the services they offer. 5 out 5 stars no questions asked.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Mark seemed knowledge and compassionate when first hired. Once I cut the check - all of that was down the drain. Took MONTHS to get any return phone calls or emails. Extremely disappointing and made a very emotional and difficult process much worse for all involved.
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30 Jul, 2020 by Keith
Mark handled our divorce quickly and efficiently while maintaining a compassionate approach throughout the process. His counsel on all matters was very much appreciated and all questions and concerns were addressed in a straightforward and professional manner. I would recommend Mark without hesitation to anyone contemplating Divorce.
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16 Jan, 2019 by Jim
Mark did a great job getting my divorce finalized in under 4 months.
It was important to be final in 2018 and Mark got it done.
My now ex wife of 10 years and I agreed to use one attorney and that was Mark. He represented me and she was the Pro se... it only worked because Mark was great at explaining the details in a direct but calm and unbiased way. In other words She had to feel comfortable and she did.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Tracy cooley
I found STG law listed on a flier at the Dupage County Courthouse, in the family services center, after filing an order of protection against my ex for domestic violence.
STG law charged me over $20,000 within 6 months, and I was told that "some divorce cases can last years."
I was charged $700 in travel fees for my lawyer to drive to the courthouse, despite the office being located in Naperville. I was charged over $1500 each time he was in court as well. I found an honest lawyer that was shocked to know that STG was actually charging a single mom these costs, and my new lawyer informed me that lawyers cannot charge travel costs to/from their own home. My new lawyer was upfront and honest telling me that in Illinois, a divorce case will go to trial within 18 months, not lasting for years.
Read more
27 Dec, 2024 by Tp cre
If you are seeking amicable divorce, please run away from this firm before it is too late. They pitch you amicable divorce and tell you that the process will be over even before all your retainer fee is spent, like Abeer H. Zanayed told us. But in reality, all she did was turning a simple, straightforward divorce process into a battle and racked up thousands of dollars in the process. They charge thousands of dollars to just download documents from emails or website and put them into their "folders". She seeds doubt in your mind about the potential of hidden money and send you on a goose chase, charging thousands of dollars for sending subpoenas to every financial entity in the country. It seems like their goal is to extract as much as possible from you and they have no intention of quickly finishing the process. Status hearing court dates cost thousands of dollars in both lawyers fees for nothing and this keeps going on for years.
Read more
27 Oct, 2024 by Tracie eggert
The entire team at STG is attentive, respectful, accomplished and professional.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Joshua johnston
Darran took the time to help in making sure you felt valued. But the entire legal team is to thank in all honesty. I had supreme and utter confidence in his abilities. If considering representation particularly regarding an OOP go to Darran he will secure the W!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Resistance jedi
19 Feb, 2024 by Hope coulter
I highly recommend Darran ! He is one of the best there is . Narrissa is so helpful as well they are a great team ! Thank you for all you do Darran !
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26 Dec, 2024 by Bob lund
A great Law firm. They were very responsive and complete while constructing my estate plan. Recommended.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Lisa parmenter
I wouldn’t recommend this law office. I’ve had a family court case for quite a few years and my previous attorney was moving to Chicago (LOVED her) and I needed someone new to take her place. Just on google reviews alone you’d think this would be a decent experience. I was called by Matthew Dorich who said HE would take on my case and I agreed. After that I never met Matt. They sent me a subpar attorney from Peoria to fill in. So not only was I unhappy with my representation I was paying his traveling costs when if matt would have represented me, Matt lived in Springfield. Then, they let me know I’d have to speak with a paralegal and it took them weeks to follow up with me the first time. Every time Marilu would send emails she was very rude. For the amount of money you have to pay you’d think they at least understand compassion or kindness, but they don’t. It gets worse. Noah, my subpar attorney, left the practice and no one said anything to me about it and then marilu was angry with me for emailing him with questions about my case. I will never recommend this law office. Stay away if you can.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Jesse neal
Starting a custody battle is the last thing on earth I wanted to do and was scared to death to say the least. Brianna, Tarissa and team took my case on with confidence and enthusiasm! I was treated with caring and respect. They were on point with instructions and information and made it simple and as painless as possible for me. I cant thank you guys enough for all your help!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Katie is not good at replying to emails. If you have important deadlines or prefer responses in a timely manner, Katie is not for you.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Peter
I felt as though I was already at a disadvantage being male in DuPage and seeking as much time as possible with my daughter. My ex wanted to fight over every little thing possible. After 6.5 years and several lawyers later, by the grace of God, I found Katie.
Katie turned the entire case around and it was resolved in 18 months. Katie diligently reviewed the case file and had my ex figured out. She always responded to my calls and emails in a very timely manner. She was well prepared for all of our hearings. My case was a mess filled with drama and I don't know what I would have done without Katie. Thank you for everything!
As of today, I have a 50/50 spilt with my daughters mom. I would highly recommend her for any and all aspects of a divorce or parentage case.
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03 Jan, 2022 by Dlk
Katie Kenny was a member of a firm of which I was a partner. We were always pleased with her work and demeanor. In addition, after I retired, we retained Katie for a large civil case in which we were involved. Katie has always been punctual, respectful, very thoughtful in sorting out issues, calm, insightful in her analysis, thorough and professional. I recommend Kate Kenny without reservation.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Andrea defalco
In my opinion, Gail is a threat to the safety of children. Based on the overwhelming number of reviews saying the same, I am sharing how to report her conduct. It is easy to file a report with both regulatory boards/commissions.
Use the link below if you have used her in the capacity as a Psychologist:
https://idfpr.illinois.gov/admin/dpr/complaint.html
Select “Professional Regulation” and fill out the information in the form.
Use the link below if you have used her in the capacity as an Attorney:
https://www.iardc.org/Files/Request_For__Investigation.pdf
In my opinion Gail is a danger to children and families. In my opinion, she puts children at risk of serious harm. In my opinion she must be stopped.
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14 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
We used Gail for divorce mediation. She was late for every appointment. She clearly hadn't ever review anything prior to our meetings and then never sent us our final documents. She was supposed to connect us with a lawyer at the end who 'she works with' to finalize and file our case, she did not do that, she completely disappeared once our last payment was sent. I called and emailed many times and no one responded. She was slow during meetings and wasn't much help with any questions we had. If it hadn't been during a pandemic we would have changed mediator. Ours was a simple divorce, I would hate someone in the middle of a stressful divorce to have to deal with this unprofessionalism on top of that.
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16 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
This women will continue to try to convince you that abuse of your children is okay. She as a mandated reporter will hide abuse in order to assure she will receive a paycheck from you as long as possible. She will make excuses for the abuser and lie to Judges/Child representatives/DCFS, because if the children get removed from the abusive home she loses you as a client. Please make sure to report this woman to the state of Illinois if anything like this has happened to you. A hospital Doctor that had to care for our children said that Dr. Gail Petrich’s actions are “disgusting and she should be ashamed of herself”. We cannot let people like Dr. Gail Petrich continue to practice.
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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.
