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28 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Susanna Pullen has earned my highest recommendation. She is educated, intelligent, fair, hard-working, and thorough. She is broad-minded yet maintains focus on the important issues. She conducts herself in a professional manner and manages positive relationships with opposing counsel and the court. In my experience, excellent legal representation is key to a just outcome. I consider myself and my family extremely fortunate to have had Susanna Pullen's representation.
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06 Sep, 2013 by Nancy
There are times when one makes good decisions, and this one I made was amazing! I found Ms Pullen online. My criteria was to find an intelligent, compassionate, sharp attorney, and that is Ms Pullen!
This was a difficult, stressful situation. I had to leave my trust and faith in her hands. I never felt uncomfortable doing this. I listened and did what she said. And it was my good fortune I did, as her advice was impeccable and served me very well.
I would highly recommend Ms Pullen to anyone. She knows exactly what to do and I am super grateful I chose her.
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10 Aug, 2013 by Diadre
I highly recommend Drury Pullen a Professional Law Corporation for family law representation. My child custody and divorce case spanned over a year given its complexity. At the beginning, I had the opportunity to work briefly with Jennifer Drury but later I extensively worked with Susanna Pullen. Both attorneys were responsive, compassionate and professional.
Susanna is proficient in many areas as an attorney but the areas I was most impressed with as a client were Susanna’s ability to: 1) assimilate information quickly and respond effectively, 2) write a clear and convincing brief, and 3) prepare and craft questions for witnesses.
Susanna demonstrated over and over her keen ability to respond quickly and effectively under pressure at court hearings and at trial. Susanna’s ability to absorb new information and assimilate it with old information was very impressive. For example, during a trial lunch break, Susanna quickly processed newly submitted doctor’s notes and evaluations. Susanna came back to court and was able to use the information to ask discerning questions of subsequent witnesses and to integrate the new information into her summation.
From the beginning, Susanna’s extensive knowledge of family law was clearly reflected within the briefs she submitted to the court. Her briefs were well written and conveyed strong convincing arguments for the outcomes we were seeking. Susanna took care to accurately reference and cite important points as the case progressed.
Susanna was also outstanding at thinking on her feet in the court room during the cross examination of witnesses. Before trial, Susanna took the time to understand who the witnesses were and what they might testify. Susanna’s preparation laid a solid foundation for the thoughtful questions she asked witnesses. Susanna however was not constrained by the questions she prepared. Susanna actively listened to the answers of witnesses and in multiple instances she asked important follow-up questions in response to what witnesses had just testified.
Throughout the year-long process, Susanna didn’t promise any specific court outcome. Instead, Susanna provided honest, upfront, and realistic feedback throughout the ongoing child custody and divorce process so that I was able to manage my expectations appropriately. The child custody and divorce process was arduous and required my active collaboration and participation. I really appreciated Susanna Pullen’s expertise and I highly recommend her as a family law attorney.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I have been in a complex child custody battle court case for over 14 years. When I met Channe, She listened to me and immediately devised a plan using her expert knowledge, analytical skills, experience, and passion, so I retained her services. Channe helped me get justice. I admire her responsiveness, composure, honesty, and excellent communication skills. She was very sensitive and helpful when speaking with my child and helped convey the truth. Channe’s paralegal and office staff are very helpful, respond quickly, and have excellent customer service.
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09 Dec, 2019 by Margaret
I hired Channe in the tenth hour just before my evidentiary hearing on custody, visitation, and child support. My prior attorney disappeared, and given the circumstances I couldn't push out the hearing and go with the date I had, only a week away. I met with multiple attorneys, but because I had already been paying for an attorney I was low on funds. I couldn't afford many attorneys' retainers (some asked for $10k-$20k), but Channe's was much more affordable.
Channe really went to bat for me and represented me better than I could have imagined. My children are now safe and thriving under the new schedule and I'm receiving more child support than I was previously told I would because she found funds my ex was hiding. Although there was very little time between when I retained her and my hearing, she and her staff were very responsive to my questions and guided me through the process. If I need a family law attorney again, Channe will be my first call.
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04 Jan, 2019 by Leonardo ferreira
She was amazing and professional, solved my problem (unfair) love her and her team forever! I recommend!
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22 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Helen is a sound attorney with a deep knowledge of the law and the procedures and applications in the practie of lawyering. She is a client advocate and attentive counsel to her clients in the community, but also in the coourt room. Additionally, Helen is a professor of law at the Southern California Institute of Law where she teached Family Law, Civil Procedure, and Evidence. Needless to say she is intelligent. I would highly recommend Helen as a lawyer.
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5.0
147 Reviews
02 Apr, 2024 by Gabriel luna
Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. handled my case expeditiously, professionally, and with the utmost regard for my rights and well-being. The staff provided excellent and timely communication with matters related to my case. I recommend this group to anyone who is searching for legal representation or a consultation.
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08 Jan, 2024 by Elaine mcnamara
I am very pleased with the results Harris Attorneys obtained in my case. I found them personable, knowledgeable and efficient. It was easy to reach them when needed, and calls were returned promptly which is very comforting, I highly recommend them
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27 Dec, 2023 by Marcie greene
Exceptional customer service with an exceptional staff! They really walk you through the process of personal injury and help you feel taken care of. Thank you!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Nereida barrios
I am happy I was recommended to Aaron’s Law Firm they were amazing help! Everything made sense it was easy and I’ll recommend them for anyone who needs help with any situation!!! Every penny was well spent and they deserve so much more than 5 stars if I could I’d leave 100!!! Thank you so much!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Karen osborn
Mr ARON is the best!!! Very knowledgeable and professional with a great deal of compassion. I will always be grateful to him for his help navigating the situation with the Nursing Board 🙏🙏🙏
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30 Jul, 2024 by Jorge
I needed an early probation termination and expungement for DUI and thanks to Mr. William Aron , he got the job done! I cannot express how grateful I am for him for handling a challenging case for me but if you ever need help for a similar matter , he is the guy to go to!! Highly recommend getting a consultation from him.
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12 Dec, 2023 by Brandon jimenez (the host)
No free consultations.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Alban sauret
I cannot say enough about the incredible support and assistance I received from Charles "Chip" Oxton. From the moment I reached out to him, he exhibited exceptional expertise, professionalism, and compassion in handling my custody. He ensured that my child's well-being was at the forefront of all our proceedings.
I believe that what sets Chip apart is not just his exceptional legal skills but his remarkable qualities as a human being. He genuinely cares about his clients, which really mattered to me during an emotionally draining time. He was always honest and direct, even when it meant having difficult conversations.
In addition to Chip, I had very nice interactions with other lawyers and assistants at his office. Feeling safe about being at a lawyer's office is reassuring in challenging times.
In summary, if you find yourself in need of an attorney who has great legal skills but who is also an amazing person, I strongly recommend Chip! He had an immense impact on my life during one of the most challenging times I've ever faced.
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07 Jun, 2023 by Nelly risdon
When my husband passed away it was a shock. A friend realized that I was going to need a lawyer. I called Charles office in a panic and spoke with Beth. Without hesitation Charles was on the phone with me and after only 10 minutes he knew exactly what to do. He showed up for me! For 3 years, he and the team were my voice. It was a complicated, frustrating fight to the finish. Through the entirety of the pandemic, with court cases being pushed and dealing with multiple lawyers on the other side, Charles and team kept me calm, walked me through everything step by step. They made sure to answer every question, take every meeting and most importantly heard every word I said. Even when I was completely freaking out. Charles was my muscle.
Professional, trustworthy, knowledgeable about the law. Charles and team are also compassionate, but tough when it comes to fighting for what is right.
During the toughest time in my entire life, Charles and team were there for me. I could not have gotten through this without them.
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19 Jan, 2022 by Maya
Tracey and her team are extremely dedicated, compassionate and professional! I feel like a struck the jackpot when I hired her! She and her assistant, Channy, took on my case when I was in a dire and desperate situation and showed so much understanding, patience and competence. Through a long process with many hearings, they navigated through a complex family law case and a restraining order with multiple witnesses and evidence. Tracey’s demeanor, professionalism and expertise in court were phenomenal and she instantly earned credibility in front of the judge. She knows her job so well and is incredibly in tune with the intricacies and nuances of the laws and the California judicial system. She was always honest with me and laid our realistic expectations without sugar coating anything. She and her team often worked late nights and weekends to prepare for my case and were there for me professionally and personally. We won the case and through her commitment and hard work I was able to keep my children safe. I couldn’t recommend her enough!!!
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09 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I loved her and her team! They were so professional and kind. She helped me navigate the waters of a very nasty divorce. I kept my house and now I have a new boyfriend. Life is great.
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15 Jul, 2019 by Anna
I was dreading the legal process and fighting my husband over our money and our children. He had threatened to take custody away and leave me in the worst place he possibly could, financially. I didn’t care about our material things but I did care about our children. Tracey sat down with me and explained the court process, the laws, and the realities of what to expect. She worked to get my case ready for court and she knew just what I needed to do. She advised me about a fair settlement and not to give up more than I wanted to simply out of fear. Looking back, I’m glad I didn’t because I deserved my fair share of our assets and I am glad that I stood firm. Tracey writes beautifully and expressed my points in court perfectly. When we were in court, she was confident and polished. She is definitely the epitome of a professional and experienced lady lawyer. She’s a fighter dressed up in a suit and pearls and all, but she will fight for you. I could not be happier with how she handled my case — give her a try you won’t be sorry!
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12 Dec, 2023 by Brandon jimenez (the host)
No free consultations.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Alban sauret
I cannot say enough about the incredible support and assistance I received from Charles "Chip" Oxton. From the moment I reached out to him, he exhibited exceptional expertise, professionalism, and compassion in handling my custody. He ensured that my child's well-being was at the forefront of all our proceedings.
I believe that what sets Chip apart is not just his exceptional legal skills but his remarkable qualities as a human being. He genuinely cares about his clients, which really mattered to me during an emotionally draining time. He was always honest and direct, even when it meant having difficult conversations.
In addition to Chip, I had very nice interactions with other lawyers and assistants at his office. Feeling safe about being at a lawyer's office is reassuring in challenging times.
In summary, if you find yourself in need of an attorney who has great legal skills but who is also an amazing person, I strongly recommend Chip! He had an immense impact on my life during one of the most challenging times I've ever faced.
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07 Jun, 2023 by Nelly risdon
When my husband passed away it was a shock. A friend realized that I was going to need a lawyer. I called Charles office in a panic and spoke with Beth. Without hesitation Charles was on the phone with me and after only 10 minutes he knew exactly what to do. He showed up for me! For 3 years, he and the team were my voice. It was a complicated, frustrating fight to the finish. Through the entirety of the pandemic, with court cases being pushed and dealing with multiple lawyers on the other side, Charles and team kept me calm, walked me through everything step by step. They made sure to answer every question, take every meeting and most importantly heard every word I said. Even when I was completely freaking out. Charles was my muscle.
Professional, trustworthy, knowledgeable about the law. Charles and team are also compassionate, but tough when it comes to fighting for what is right.
During the toughest time in my entire life, Charles and team were there for me. I could not have gotten through this without them.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Drew did an excellent job at helping me get through my divorce and stayed focus on closing out all issues related to the divorce to help finalize everything as quickly and amicably as possible. I'm very grateful for his attention to detail and insights based on his years of experience. Divorce is a very tough process to go through for some, yet it was extremely helpful to have his experience, guidance and assistance during this challenging time. I would absolutely recommend Drew.
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16 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Unreliable. Lack of communication. He was always late, charged a ton and got nothing done.
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02 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Maley never prioritized the case, inexplicable time delays, then he quit the case, and put a lien on my property.
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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.
