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23 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Lindsey was an absolute dream to work with! She always responded quickly to things that came up throughout the process. She was professional and appropriately stern with my ex. I would recommend her to any friend who is dealing with the unfortunate case of divorce.
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11 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Lindsey is very professional and truly cares about her clients. I felt like when I needed someone the most she did my fighting for me. When faced with a tuff time things don't look so clear and Lindsey broke it down and gave me options. I have and will continue to recommend her and her company.
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09 Feb, 2016 by Melissa
It was a pleasure to work with Lindsey Houk. I went to the courtroom in good hands. She was professional, caring, and devoted to me as her client.
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23 Jun, 2015 by Carrie
I came to Mr. Hegedus for a divorce finalization. He was very prompt, and extremely knowledgeable. I told him what I needed and he provided me with excellent service, and information throughout the entire process. I am very happy with him and will refer him to any one who needs an attorney.
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25 Nov, 2014 by Andreas
Had a great experience with Stephen. He dealt with my case in the most professional and successful way.
I am glad I found him and I highly recommend his service.
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22 Nov, 2014 by Ben
Stephen is a remarkable lawyer and person. He handled my case in very short and informed me form the court house that everything was sealed and officially legal. He called me and let me know what was going on in every stage of the process. His response to any calls were immediate. Working with him was a absolute pleasure. I have other matters that will require a lawyer and I would not go any place else. It is a very pleasant and different experience dealing with a lawyer that really cares about his clients.
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24 Nov, 2014 by Carlette
I had a wonderful experience with Mr.Marcellino . He is truly dedicated to his clients he always took time out for me and my case and always helped me figure out my best options. I would recommend him he is honest and will defnitely help solve whatever legal issue you may have.
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18 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Matthew M. Marcellino has shown a very professional and assertive approach since the first appointment, on the phone and from the other side of the world. He did not create any easy and false expectation. He prospected us how he would handle the case, why he wanted to follow that way and what would the best and realistic results be respectively. And the time was against us.
We achieved what we factually proved to be truthful within the frame of law he proved to master; and for this he has our sincere moral reward for life.
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18 Nov, 2014 by Andrea
Mr. Marcellino was exceptional! He provided all the necessary groundwork before my very first court date. Because of this, I was able to get above and beyond what I asked for. He is extremely knowledgeable and compassionate and has a desire to truly help people. I am forever grateful for all he has done in order to ensure the safety of my daughter.
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20 Jan, 2020 by Chris
Had a complex child custody case that didn't look promising from the start. She wasted no time sugar coating my chances when other lawyers have in the past. (This was my 2nd rodeo) We got to work and got the settlement I was hoping for and it was all due to her efforts. Life changer for sure!!!
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22 Dec, 2017 by Barbara
Althea represented me in a child custody and divorce matter. She helped me when no one else would. My circumstances were extremely difficult and a positive outcome looked bleak. She is beyond tenacious and worked tirelessly to get my kids back! Additionally, the by-product of the divorce was MORE than I had hoped for. It is her unforgettable kindness and compassion that got me through that difficult time. She was a true answer to prayers! You WILL NOT find a better attorney than Althea Richardson!
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18 Dec, 2017 by Paul puchalski
Althea has represented me for number of years .Dealing with a divorce is not easy ,finding common ground in a situation is vital. She has stood up for me against my ex-wife who is uncompromising ,controlling and just plain unrealistic.I would highly recommend. Her experience has helped me get a more just custody of my child .I am so glad she is on my side .
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10 Oct, 2018 by Victoria
Nicole and her team were beyond helpful in a long 5 year process trying to find what would work best for a long distance coparenting situation. I am now communicating well with my ex, my daughters have a visitation schedule that works well for everyone involved and we are no longer in need of legal guidance. It was a long road and Sodoma Law was supportive, informative and caring throughout the entire process. It’s a relief to finally feel ease in co-parenting. Thank you so much Sodoma Law for getting me through one of the most difficult situations in my life.
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07 Nov, 2015 by Lauren
When I first decided to take steps in getting a divorce, I thought I was looking down a long, hard road. Nicole showed me that there was someone there who understood what I was going through. She eased me through the entire process and made me feel like I had someone on my side. Sodoma Law's level of professionalism is unmatched. I would highly reccomend Nicole and her firm to any one of my close friends or family members.
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06 Aug, 2014 by Jed
Nicole Sodoma and her entire team were nothing short of professional from the moment I first met with her. She took on my case after I made the decision to switch attorneys in what had become a very drawn out custody issue. While I understand that many attorneys will shy away from taking over a case in progress, Nicole was willing to jump right in and that made all the difference in the world regarding my relationship with my son Henry. What made me feel most comfortable (aside from her willingness to take over my case) was that I always felt she truly listened to me, cared, and understood where I was coming from. She was always upfront with me and managed my expectations realistically regardless of the circumstances and I never doubted she was going to fight as hard as she could for me.......and to me, that says is all.
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28 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Arlene has been a great attorney to work with and I can recommend her services wholeheartedly. She is competent, friendly, knowledgeable in her field and she handled my case well. I was able to get a hold of Arlene quickly as situations arose and she took the time to really explain things when I didn’t understand. Litigation is never pleasant but Arlene helped make a stressful situation much less so.
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02 Mar, 2015 by Chef al
I was involved in a very serious automobile accident that has required me to have 12 surgeries up to now. If it would not of been for Arlene and her associates , I don't know what my family and I would have done or where we would of ended up. The Kid that hit me had Nationwide Insurance and believe me when I tell you, "Nationwide is not on your side" when it comes to doing the right thing. They did everything they could to intimidate me and my family. Nationwide hired the biggest law firm in Raleigh , Arlene never once backed down and made me feel safe. Her knowledge of the law was very impressive, but what was even more impressive was her work ethic and her compassion for someone that was almost killed by someone that was racing to get home so he and his dad could go fishing. She was constantly on the phone with me and or emailing me. I gave Arlene the nik name of "The Junk Yard Dog" because she stood her ground for what was right against one of the biggest insurance companies in the nation. I will never forget the long hours of work she put in. I would get emails from her at 2:30 in the morning. Having her on my side made all the difference in the world.
If anyone is in need of a lawyer that wont B.S. you and will fight for you, then do yourself a favor and call her and find out for yourself.
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22 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Ms. Colon helped us with an issue involving my husband's ex-wife. The issue was quickly resolved once she became involved. She was very supportive throughout the process and I felt that what I paid her was reasonable. We have had to involve several attorrneys over the years to help us with issues related to the ex-wife's games. To date, Ms. Colon has been the only one to get any relief for us. Had the case not been moved 3 hrs away, we would have continued to use Ms. Colon, and I'm sure the outcome (of our recent court case) would have been more in our favor.
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12 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Amanda is amazing at what she does. I came to Amanda, frantic. My husband and I had separated more than a year ago and had always had a civil arrangement regarding our children’s custody agreement. When I got offered a job out of town, he agreed to let the children come with me and to follow shortly there afterwards.
However, once things actually started to move into action. My ex shut down and decided he wanted full custody of the children. He kept them from me, only allowing “supervised visits” at his mother’s house. I found myself stuck in a new town with no legal rights to my children because we did not have an Attorney drafted Separation Agreement in place. The police could not even help me.
Amanda was there for me through every step of the way. She was professional, kind and firm when needed. She drafted an Agreement based on what I wanted, listening to what was most important to me. We prepared to go to Court if needed. Luckily, it did not get that far but only because of Amanda’s tact, patience, and kindness in handling this tense situation between two angry individuals.
If you are looking for a family lawyer, look no further than Amanda. This was one of the hardest things I have ever gone through in my life. Amanda was there for me, going above and beyond at every opportunity. She always gave me sound advice, a shoulder to cry on and her persistence and positive attitude allowed me to know things would fall into place… and they did.
Hire her, you will not regret it. She is so kind but will fight for you tooth and nail, if need be. The perfect combination of kind and fierce, YOU want her on YOUR side.
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27 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Amanda walked me through my speeding ticket process and took care of it. She went to court on my behalf which was great so I didn't have to miss work. She is a great attorney with great passion for her clients needs!
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26 Sep, 2017 by Caroline
Ms. Sasnett is a wonderful attorney. My husband and I hired her to handle the closing loan agreement for our new home. She was very professional, communicated with both my husband and I extremely well. She was prompt and proficient, and she made sure to keep us both up to date during the entire process. We knew exactly what was going to happen and when it was going to happen. She is a wonderful down to earth person and she makes you feel like you could call her any time for anything!
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01 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Wendy for my child custody case. She really cared about my kid. When they were breaking down, she supported us and talked us through everything. It's so obvious she cares about her clients and their family. I would highly recommend her to anyone that needs a family attorney.
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01 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Wendy when I was having difficulties with my ex and child support. I was being made to pay more than I could afford for longer than I should. No attorney I hired previously was able to help, but Wendy could. She went to bat for me. I will always appreciate her.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Ravelle
I had wonderful experience working with Amanda and Meghan at the Dozier Miller Law Group! They were kind, compassionate, knowledgeable, and had an keen attention to details!
I had worked with other family law attorneys, however Amanda and Meghan were above the rest and surpassed my expectations!
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30 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
During our consultation Amanda was quick on her feet and didn't pull any punches. I appreciate an attorney who can be both understanding and firm!
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19 Sep, 2019 by Mike payne
I have used Roger several times. He is highly professional and will do all he can to win your case. Best lawyer in Asheville.
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02 Sep, 2016 by Rachael
Mr. Smith represented my fiancé in a criminal and civil court. Mr. Smith was professional and knowledgeable in both matters and I highly recommend him.
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02 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Was very helpful . Helped out in stressful time real professional! We had many changes and times and office handled wonderfully, speak real language were you don’t need a interpreter. Excellent Character!!!
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17 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
I went to Scott Dunn on a few occasions for consultations and the advice he gave really helped me feel relieved, at ease and in preparation to be prepared for anything. I did hire this attorney. Scott Dunn made me feel more at ease in the courtroom based on what my case dealt with. Any near future child custody issues or whatever the case may be he's honest and helpful as it prepared me to what different types of cases may bring; Long process and long courtroom hours! He's thorough and I was very pleased with the representation I received from this lawyer. Best one hands down. Would I go back to this lawyer? Absolutely!
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27 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I am savvy financially, but had no clue about the divorce process when I embarked on this journey several years ago. Through it all, Ms. Kennedy and her staff have been there for me and my kids. Unfortunately, I am going to have to go back to court for a child support issue. Although it is the last thing on earth I want to do, I know I am in good hands.
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26 Jul, 2016 by Kelly
The shock of a possible divorce is difficult enough, not to mention knowing who to go to for legal advice. I was lucky enough to have found Kennedy Law; Marsha Kennedy. My case has been very difficult with many different avenues of the law including child custody, post marital support, legal issues with marital debt and sales of businesses, tax questions and the list goes on. Marsha Kennedy and her team has expertly handled each situation and guided me through the process. They have been like family to me and have given me and my children a great deal of support through a very challenging time. I would highly recommend Kennedy Law Firm. You will receive the professional help you need and the care and understanding you deserve.
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12 Jun, 2013 by Isabella
I had a complex child custody situation, and she was patient, calm, and professional while I took forever to describe the problem. I was tense and nervous about the whole process, and she was so experienced and reassuring. I highly recommend Anne Littlejohn to anyone needing an attorney for child support or custody matters. She's the best!
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13 Dec, 2012 by S & j west
Anne is a wonderful attorney. She has been a joy to work with and has gone to great lengths to help us with my fiancé's divorce & custody case as well as my own divorce. I would highly recommend her to anyone in need of a family or criminal law attorney.
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18 May, 2022 by Debby
I cannot express how pleased I was with Molly Brazil and the entire staff. Molly was extremely responsive and very knowledgeable about the details of my separation and possible divorce. She made me feel safe and confident every step of the way. I am impressed how well the staff worked as a team and how caring, compassionate and genuine they are. Molly is wonderful, caring, very easy to talk to and knows her stuff. So glad that I chose her and the firm to represent me. Although my husband and I chose to reconcile I would highly recommend Molly to anyone looking for the best!
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11 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
She knows the law and is very easy to talk with. She listens and explains in a way that makes since. Highly recommend her.
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08 Dec, 2015 by Rob
I contacted Ms. Meeks for some follow-on litigation resulting from a previously settled divorces. She was extremely responsive, efficient, and focused. During the consultation she isolated key issues and provided me a few courses of action with well defined advantages and disadvantages. In the end, I chose her to represent me and she worked to get the settlement I needed. I'd highly recommend her because of her professionalism, legal knowledge, and effectiveness in getting matters closed.
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04 Dec, 2015 by Darice defoggi
It was a pleasure dealing with Erin Meeks and her staff. All of her staff from the minute you walk in for help until the services were provided was done in the upmost professional, kind, and diligent manner by herself and her entire staff. I would and will use her in the future if any other legal matters arise. I would further recommend her to others. Thank you Ms. Meeks( and Candice Corbett) as well as your entire staff.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Rachel
Richard helped from the very beginning of my seperation papers being drawn up to the divorce being finalized. There were moments where this was a challenge due to other person and their lawyer in my case. However, Richard never backed down and continued to stand for what was fair and equal. Richard was very polite, extremely understanding, as well as patient through our six month time on this case.
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01 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. Williams assisted me with my personal injury case. Throughout the process, he always listened to my concerns, was extremely prompt in communicating information to me, and kept me informed every single step of the way. Not only am I very thrilled with the outcome of my case, but I am also very appreciative of how Mr. Williams treated me as a client. I would definitely recommend him!
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02 Sep, 2024 by Melissa
After firing my last attorney Mr. Weinshenker was next up on the court appointed list. I couldn't have been more lucky. Right away I could tell the difference between the two lawyers. He emailed me a couple times a day. He also was very blunt and let me know the reality of the situation. He's my new go-to lawyer. My case isn't over with but I just want everyone know who is looking for a lawyer, this guy is awesome!
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02 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Seth is the best attorney I have had through the course of my divorce and custody cases. From the first time I met him, he was professional, took detailed notes, asked pertinent questions and was highly available. He got my custody case into court quickly and was always more than blunt about the reality of the possible outcomes. He is down to earth, personable, and down to business. And he has a LOT of experience in his field. In one case he actually spent enough time researching law to figure out that the opposing attorney had filed completely improper paperwork against me and the suit against me was dismissed. He is very thorough. I can't say enough nice things about his professionalism. I would recommend him in a heartbeat. He was able to accomplish for me what two prior attorneys in Cabarrus county failed at miserably.
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27 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Jonathan and his firm handled our divorce and other legal matters for us and I could not be more happy with his work and the outcome.
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24 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
Jonathan handled our closings for our purchase when we moved to NC, then drafted a will for my husband and I! He was so caring and helpful and worked very hard to make sure all of our questions were answered and we felt comfortable with the entire process of each transaction. I would highly recommend his office. Not only is he wonderful, but his staff is exceptional and very caring. Everyone there really puts the clients first and makes an effort to make the process easy for the client.
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13 Jul, 2017 by Sackeena
Ms. Burhke-Hayer provided services that were professional and empathetic. These two characteristics do not normally go hand in hand with legal services, so it was quite refreshing. This is an attorney that I would gladly recommend.
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06 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I consulted with Shante on a divorce matter. I was looking for someone to help me get started and advise me on the steps to take. She not only answered all my questions, but she thoroughly explained every step and reviewed my documents. Thank you!
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09 Jan, 2019 by Kimberly
Cynthia is the attorney you want on your side. She is knowledgeable on many different levels of family law and will walk you through the steps of the process. She is quite impressive I must say! When our court date arrived, she was like a firecracker and didn’t miss a beat! Cynthia’s confidence and knowledge was very apparent. I highly recommend this attorney for any child custody/child support cases. Although my case was several years ago, if I were to be placed in a similar situation again, there would be no hesitation on my end to contact Cynthia Locklear immediately! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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17 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Cynthia Locklear is an amazing attorney, a true professional. Cindy is smart, very knowledgable, thoughtful and is not afraid to speak the truth. Cindy provides great results, solves issues quickly and is also someone who will fight for you. Cindy listened to my story, understood where I was coming from and outlined my options based on her extensive background. Cindy walked me through the process from start to finish, made me feel like I was not alone and that she would be there for me step by step. I have 1 small child and it was comforting to know that we would be taken care of and she would fight for us. I did not end up moving forward, instead we continued on with couples counseling, but if I ever find myself in need I would not hesitate to contact Cindy again. I know many others that have hired her as well and you will be extremely happy with her services- as she is the best family law attorney in the Wilmington area. I highly recommend Cynthia Locklear
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10 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Represented me last year. He was able to turn a very bad situation into a very good one........
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29 May, 2018 by Anonymous
He was my lawyer for a misdemeanor he was very compassionate, listen and answered all my questions made sure I understood had my sentence dismissed one of the best lawyers I had aftering having to fire two other lawyers I highly recommend him he is also very professional to the client and judge.
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22 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Ms. Cartner is a professional and hardworking attorney. She makes you feel like a top priority and always has her staff prepared and available to answer questions. I would recommend her to anyone needing a kind and easy attorney to work with.
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20 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
She's a fighter and knows her stuff! She is very professional and makes you feel like a friend not just another client!
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30 Nov, 2015 by Reginald
Ms. Bennett was very patient with me in my DWI case. She reviewed all my materials, explained all of my options and helped me get my license back quickly.
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10 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I needed help with a speeding ticket I got, and hired Ms. Bennett to handle it for me. She went to court and had it reduced so that I didn't get any points on my license. It was awesome!
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20 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I have been a client of Ms Gold's since April of 2014. She has,in my mind, been very helpful and knowlegable explaining the law as regards to divorce. She has advised me and helped through this trying time. She has gone out of her way to be accomodating with my night shift schedule. Ms. Gold did a tremendous job in my first hearing for post sepperation, alimony, and lawyer fees, which I won. My divorce is still pending, but soon to be over. My only complaint is that on a couple occasions she was late for my appointments.
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19 Feb, 2024 by John
Attorney Siderovski is highly intelligent and compassionate. I would recommend her to anyone in need of representation for their divorce or child custody.
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30 Aug, 2013 by Lauren
Tara Sain is an honest, knowledgeable, and compassionate lawyer. I feel I had a somewhat complex case and had already been to one lawyer that just didn't work out. I was reluctant “shopping” around for another one thinking I was just going to hear the same BS I heard from the first one. When I emailed Tara’s firm questioning their costs and procedures I immediately got a call from there paralegal who was very pleasant and clearly explained everything over the phone. The very next day I was scheduled to have a consult with Tara. After talking to her for I believe an hour and a half I knew I was going to retain her as my lawyer. Tara listened to everything I had to say without interruptions and gave me her honest feedback and thoughts on ways to proceed. I never felt rushed or like I was wasting her time, in fact I actually felt she genuinely cared about my situation. To make a long story short from day one Tara knew what my end goal was and within 6 weeks of starting something I thought would never end we had signed documents and our separation was final.
I can’t say enough about Tara, she and her office impressed me from the get go with their promptness and overall concern for me and my outcome. I would recommend Tara Sain and the Mcilveen Family Law Firm to anyone in the Charlotte and surrounding area.
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19 Dec, 2014 by Lauren
Shannan is a really good lawyer - She is tough but also heartfelt. She is not afraid to take a strong stand on a matter. She gives good advice, I hired her for my restraining order case, which I won. Shannan's firm that she works at is very expensive! But overall I am thankful for her support, caringness, and service!
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25 Nov, 2019 by Anthony
Attorney Spain helped me with my divorce. She is very professional and answered all questions I had about my divorce. She also explained and kept me very informed with everything going on with my case. I recommend attorney Spain if you need a lawyer who is very good, knows the law and very professional.
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09 Feb, 2015 by Christina
Jason is an amazing attorney and counselor. He was always professional courteous responsive and showed a genuine care in the work he did for me. I would recommended him for any services. I hold up most respect for him.
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25 Feb, 2016 by Shannon
From the first time I met with Jonathan Csuka, I never doubted that he knew what he was talking about. His professionalism, knowledge, and overall expertise was always evident. If I had a question, he knew the answer, right then; he didn’t have to “get back to me.” Each time I came through the door, I was greeted; the business manager, Stephanie Griffin, always answered my billing questions and returned my calls right away; and since I live in Asheboro, Jon always worked around my schedule to ensure convenience. I am pleased with the quality of service, and feel that its value was good: I felt supported.
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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:
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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.
