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24 Jun, 2024 by Elite motorcycle llc
Melissa is the best attorney, I recommend everyone that’s in need to go see her. Always handled my stuff efficiently and effectively until the very end.
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29 Dec, 2023 by Ka wai wong
I contacted Melissa over a speeding ticket in a neighboring county. Although she does not work on minor traffic violations in that county, she was super nice and very kind to give me advice. She listened to me attentively and understood my concerns well. She even shared her own experience with me to make me feel better! She explained to me in great detail the potential consequences and the subsequent procedure. I am very grateful to her help and advice. Thank you very much again! Giving my strongest recommendation for Melissa here!
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16 Jul, 2023 by Connie ray
When we were looking for an ethical attorney to represent our son, it was a daunting task. We interviewed many attorneys, but after meeting and speaking with Matthew Izzi, I knew that he was the one to represent our son's defense. I felt he would approach his defense with integrity and respect for our son, and he did. Matthew doesn't fall into believing false accusations of articles written, community pressures and opposing counsel stacked charges, he develops his defense based on facts, based on the truth for his client, our son. He assured our son of his defense plan and collaborated with our son on the best way to develop his defense strategy. Matthew's demeaner in the courtroom is professional, no matter how much opposing counsel tries to pull his strings, he remains calm and forthright. He addressed injustices that were made against our son and explained many facts, of the truth, that sheds a bright light for the jury to see and that light doesn't go out, for that is what the truth does, it shines bright. Matthew gave us hope, something the DA tried to destroy. The Shasta legal system is a process of delays, unnecessary jail time --for our son, questionable decisions made by appointed judges, unfair bail , this is 'not' a justice system in our point of view. This was frustrating for us and for our son. We experienced many injustices during my son's trial by opposing counsel and Shasta Sheriff dept. So you need a good lawyer when you are in Shasta's court system. If you are looking for a good defense lawyer consider Matthew, he cares for his client's well being, despite the uphill battle he faces when dealing with the opposing counsel's unprofessional behaviors, different judges and Shasta Sherriff/Probation dept., etc.. One more comment, if you read anything written via yelp, social media or in the newspaper, that is negative about Matthew's character, by certain people in Shasta county, don't believe them, they can't deal with Matthew being so good at his job and believing in our son's account regarding what really happened. God knows the truth and the yappers negativity against my son, will be dealt with by God. When stacked charges are brought up against your loved one, you need an attorney who will represent your loved one, in an aggressive, professional, intelligent and smart manner. The highlight is-- you need Matthew who will believe in you and will work diligently to prove your loved one's innocence. Matthew helped me understand an area, that I wasn't familiar with, the legal system, this also helped our son fight the system for his innocence and to try to get through the difficult situation. Matthew's staff is friendly, listened to me through many phone calls regarding my frustration with the Court process, the DA and Sherriff dept. So consider Matthew for your defense, this will be the most important decision of your loved one's life.
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19 Feb, 2021 by Ruby
My fiance is going through bad child custody/ support case with his ex, and I was scared cause judge was going for mom and child support went up, so I called almost all attorneys in our county and no one would work with us - we don't have thousands of $ to give a lawyer... but she could hear how scared I was and she is working with us. We are still going through this right now but I would recommend her to Anyone. She is upfront and can be a lil rude but, I don't care, she is an Awesome lawyer! I can't thank her enough!
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07 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms. Lauser is a wonderful attorney. She is an attorney who is devoted and loves what she does. I truly respect her for the work and devotion that she puts into each of her clients and cases. I have seen her at work she is constantly fighting for what is right. When she believes in her case she will fight for you until the end. She is handling my juvenile case at this moment and is doing an outstanding job. As far as if Ms. Lauser loves the Lord on some of these reviews they say she is a hypocrite I say this to them "You without sin cast the first stone" we all have our dirty little sins and we are not perfect but I can say that Ms. Lauser does love the Lord with all her heart and she may have her faults at times but she is a very God fearing women and an excellent attorney. If you need a devoted attorney Ms. Lauser is that women. One word that I can say for her is "RESPECTED" she is highly favored and respected.
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28 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I was recommended Pamela by another mother going through custody and CPS false reporting. After the interview with Attorney Pamela. She reviewed my case with a short noticed that trial would be in 30 days. I felt confident and quickly hired Attorney Pamela. I felt very confident that I called Attorney Pamela one a week, I had no worries that my case was in good hands. I had two days of trail, well-organized, a list of witnesses - Yes! Pamela had to move fast on my case. Two days and Pamela was great in asking all the right questions, reviewed all documents and on time. An honest, hard working, well prepared to a last minute trial. I was given custody in a small increment but at the mediation meeting two weeks after the trail. The other party decided/willingly to share 50 - 50 joint custody.
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30 Sep, 2024 by Donna cortez
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21 Aug, 2024 by Kaitlyn
Rob and his wife Amber handled everything for me after I recieved a dui! Friendly people, easy to talk to, they walked me through everything and got my dui reduced to a wet and reckless. It was so effortless using Rob and Amber. Thank you guys for everything and I will continue to recommend you to others that need an attorney!
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22 Jun, 2024 by Cindy derner
Mr Hammonds is very polite and respectful. He explains everything easily and is just wonderful. Definitely well worth the money. If you need a top notch attorney this is your guy! Straight foward and doesn't sugar coat. His office manager Amber is wonderful also. She sets the tone for the office, very helpful and quick to respond. They handled my son's case with much kindness and professionalism. Even with Mr Hammonds out of town our case was still handled quickly and efficiently. I just can't say enough good about this office. You won't be disappointed! End result on one charge was a plea deal and when DA decided to try some double jeopardy stuff Rob and Amber where on it quick and of course case was dismissed! They help take some.of the stress off knowing we were in good hands!
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21 Sep, 2024 by Daisy baeva
The best attorney you can wish for ! We were in very sad situation dealing with couple of people for a long time who hurt our puppy for life and we were trying to find help . Ben Magid brought the peace , happiness and justice back in our lives . I will be always thankful to him for his hard work and dedication to help us in this such a time .The way he treated us with kindness and understanding to make us feel better helped so much in the rough times . We won our case ! Thank you Ben Magid !
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08 Aug, 2024 by Erich vonmilhoan
I’d like to say when you lose faith in lawyers this guy actually does his job. I’m forever grateful for his diligence.
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25 Jul, 2024 by David robinson
Ben Magid, in my experience, was proficient, professional, and helped me get my cases dismissed with no charges. I would say this is by far your best bet, in Trinity county for a defense lawyer!
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21 Sep, 2024 by Roger
Ryan was instrumental in helping bring justice to a very serious crime I was accused of. I was facing some serious charges that could have impacted my life in a very bad way. Though the court process was long, he was persistent and worked endlessly to eventually have my case dismissed. I would highly recommend him.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Wayne simpson
The best by far in Redding California. He will work for you whatever you are going through.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Paint bro'z inc.
Does what he says he’s going to do. Trustworthy. Follows through his words with action. Willing to work with you.
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24 Sep, 2023 by Melissa stiliha
We actually own this place it is the most amazing thing we bought it for a friend so he could work there and we are in the painting and furniture
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06 Jun, 2023 by John durbin
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02 Nov, 2020 by Blaine spence
Friendly staff and excellent service. I would highly recommend Jeffrey Ogilvie for any of your legal needs.
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30 May, 2024 by Anonymous
My child literally needed help with the situation he was in and she completely made it worse for him . Showed up to court seething with anger you could feel it she was so mad tried to stare down the opposition the entire time . Truly sad when a lawyer only cares about money and doesnt care about ppl
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30 Mar, 2023 by Ken
She was a good attorney at one time. When she lost her assistant, she lost it. If you want an attorney that doesn’t respond to your requests, calls, emails and does not communicate important things to you, by all means, hire her.
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09 Feb, 2021 by Peter
Carmel D’Amato is an outstanding family law attorney and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with her and her team at Seinturier and D’Amato. Of particular importance to me, she listens carefully to her clients and asks good questions in order to understand their goals and needs. She provided me with excellent advice based on the facts of my case and what I told her my goals were. Of particular importance, she helped me understand the difference between what I wanted and thought was fair, based on what I read about California family law, and what were likely outcomes given the reality of California family law and the family law system in Shasta county. I was very impressed by Carmel’s ability to maintain her integrity, composure, and good humor despite the difficulties of this flawed system and the challenges of dealing with opponents who are willing to sacrifice their integrity and constantly mislead the court to gain an advantage. In the end, I got what I consider to be an excellent settlement that allowed me to move on with my life.
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31 Mar, 2017 by Andrea
Katherine helped me win a contested adoption of my two grandchildren that I have had guardianship of for the past 5 years. She was very effective. Emails and calls were promptly responded to and she did not cause costs to get out of control by forgetting we spoke about an issue. Katherine is an outstanding, caring person and a top notch attorney. She knows her stuff. I cannot speak highly enough about her and her services. After going through a 2 1/2 year divorce that is still ongoing, I learned how important it is to interview multiple lawyers and hire the best. This is Katherine. Wish I would have hired her for my divorce and saved myself $40,000 plus dollars. Love Katherine! Hire her if you have a case and results matter
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24 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
I had a bad divorce and this is my third lawyer I have used and by far the worse. She took forever to respond to calls/emails. I had to keep her up to date on what was going on and plus my ex-wife kept me more informed then Katherine did! Ultimately, I feel the custody issue should of been a cake walk and my ex-wife by herself walked all over Katherine and my ex-wife is not that smart... So if you want to just pay a lot of money for nothing you can give it to me or her (I prefer me.)
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31 Jan, 2019 by Diana
Filed bankruptcy with him and they filed too soon and screwed us up. Now we owe the IRS more with penalties an interest. His office girl did all the work and he never checked it out to make sure it was correct and now we are messed up with the IRS.
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27 Mar, 2018 by Reece
I hired Mr. Ogilvie to represent me in a family law case and a Civil lawsuit. Basically I ended up representing myself because Mr. Ogilvie didn't take the time. So much so that he allowed the other sides attorney, Mike Darlington, to file fraudulent documents for his client and Mr. Ogilvie signed off on them, obviously because he either never bothered to read them or didn't care or both. He appeared in court for me only long enough to postpone hearings and trial until we finally settled and never had a trial. The settlement was written by me and a different attorney, not Ogilvie and not the opposing sides attorney, Mike Darlington. Mr. Ogilvie is a nice man but I think overwhelmed and perhaps past his prime. I would love my money back but too much trouble to take the time to pursue at this point. I would never hire him again or recommend him to anyone who actually wants an attorney who cares and will work for them. You will be very disappointed with Mr. Ogilvie.
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22 Feb, 2018 by Richard
Mr. Ogilvie did not present any of the evidence that I researched and presented him with. He made no attempt to research any of the evidence on his own eg. wifes earnings. Made no objections did not stand up for me when the judge said she did not believe I couldn't hear. The whole proceding was a kangaroo court in which opposite council presented false "evidence" concerning my income. It goes on and on
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Inquire about the expected timeline from filing the petition to reaching an agreement or going to trial.
  5. Will you personally handle my case?
    Ensure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court.
  6. 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.

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