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19 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Glenn patiently explains the law and gives sound legal advice, while also considering the costs and ethically billing for his time. Every divorce has different details to work out-some more difficult than others-so Glenn's experience and attention to detail were valuable to me. I would recommend hiring Glenn.
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22 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
I was provided with very useful information that helped in my situation greatly. I feel way more confident in my standing now and that boost to my morale alone has pivotal even in a short period of time. My deepest gratitude because this advice was done as volunteered time by Mr. Tanner.
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28 Aug, 2020 by Jj
I really appreciate the help received from Mr. Tanner and his assistant Kailee. Understanding and not pushy at all, professional and prompt response. The rate is very reasonable too.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
I recommend Mark Cassel highly. I hired Mark for a difficult divorce. Mark and his team did an outstanding job in a dedicated, and professional manner. Mark thinks and works very hard for his clients. Highly recommended.
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17 May, 2024 by Darren
I had the pleasure of working with Mark Cassell from Twyford Law Office. As soon as I started working with Mark he made sure everything I needed to get my life back was his priority. He got my apartment back within the first couple of weeks of working with him when prior to that I was out of my apartment for several months. He was very approachable and answered all my questions easily. His whole team communicated perfectly to me and sent me copies of everything. They responded to my emails and questions fast. they always made me feel like they had my back.
Mark is phenomenal when he is talking with prosecutor and Judge he holds himself in a very professional manner. I couldn't recommend him and his team enough.
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02 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Mark was very knowledgeable in a way that worked to my advantage. He was very empathic and calm, supportive, and swift in a difficult time. His paralegal and staff were helpful and courteous, too. Highly recommend.
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23 Dec, 2022 by Michael
I first came across Christine Gallagher when I started researching for the absolute best divorce attorney in town. Two different firms recommended her as the best. I'd have to say that they were right. Christine is articulate, intelligent, conducts herself with integrity, but most of all, she is a warrior at heart. She won a case for me that was far from being cut and dried. I feel like she really went over and above for us, and will always be appreciative of the supreme effort she put into this. Worth every penny of the money spent!
On a side note, I retained Christine ten years ago as well to represent me through a divorce that ended up being reconciled. (Should have followed through, all I did was prolong the inevitable as it turned out). Anyway, at the time of reconciliation, she returned a large sum of the retainer money to me. That was unexpected at the time, I thought we had likely burned through all of it by that point, and I never would have questioned it if she hadn't contacted me to return the remainder. That type of integrity is rare these days!
If you find yourself in this terrible situation of needing a family law attorney, I do not believe that anyone better is out there, for any sum on money. She is awesome.
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08 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
I found Christine Gallagher so wonderful to work with. I had full confidence in her knowledge and professionalism. She is very attentive to detail while always keeping the big picture and end goals in mind, all the while looking out for my best interests. She genuinely cares about her clients and was readily available to me when I had questions or concerns, even on a weekend. Christine gave me full confidence that the end resolution would be satisfactory (or better, in my case) and I never felt alone going through this difficult process of divorce. She is also a huge proponent of children and is always keeping their best interests in mind. A friend recommended Christine to me, and I will be recommending her without reservation to anyone who needs her services. Thank you Christine!
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05 Aug, 2021 by Sierra
I cannot say enough positive things about Christine Gallagher and Elenor White! They are both incredibly knowledgeable, caring, dedicated and passionate attorneys, who work tirelessly for their clients.
My case was extremely messy and challenging, but they dove in headfirst and never hesitated to do whatever was needed to support my case.
I chose to hire Christine after a negative experience with a prior attorney, and couldn’t be happier with my choice. I chose Christine because I needed someone who would be willing to fight for me and for my children, and that is exactly what she did. Little did I know at the time that I hired her, that I would have the extremely fortune of working with a team of TWO amazing attorneys who passionately advocated for me both in and outside of the courtroom.
They were excellent at communicating and kept me apprised of what was happening throughout the process. They answered all of my questions and took the time to really understand my situation and to decide how they could best support me in my case. They were honest and upfront about the realities of my situation, but were incredibly empathetic and kind as well. If you are looking for truly exceptional legal representation, Christine and Ellie are just that!
I am extremely grateful to have them in my corner and cannot recommend them enough!
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25 Apr, 2017 by Lindsay
Zach did a great job helping me with my case. He was patient, optimistic, and honesty. I would definitely hire him again!
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12 Jan, 2023 by Erin
Fantastic attorney and his paralegal is also amazing. I got exactly the outcome I wanted and the entire office was incredibly responsive no matter how insignificant or silly my question and worries were. Highly professional and responsive office.
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12 Jan, 2022 by Casie
Very detailed in working through my family law case. Explained over important information and answered all my questions in the processes of my case. Giving me breakdowns to what I needed to do and bring forward. Always responding in a timely manner and navigating the challenges of my case. Great presentation of what I wanted and my concerns. I would highly recommend!
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15 Nov, 2018 by Tenzin jacobs
Highly recommend Tony Hertel, Attorney for Disabilities cases. This is a sharp attorney and a very compassionate person. And believe it or not, he is a truly honest attorney, as well as a highly ethical one. He saved me money by being honest with me.
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21 Jan, 2018 by Jay lindsey
Great attorneys
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18 Oct, 2024 by Nori
There is no divorce that is quick and easy, but Gabrielle guided me through this difficult process to make it as smooth as possible. She responded to my questions quickly, leaving me with the secured feeling that I was in capable and efficient hands. While I greatly trust in her legal prowess, she was also kind and compassionate with me. I would recommend her highly.
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29 Mar, 2022 by Zach
I had to fight for custody for my daughter after being removed from her Mothers home! Joe and Erin fought hard for me and my family! I wanted full custody and able to move out of state! Joe did that and more! I would hire again!
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18 Oct, 2021 by Jennifer
Joseph Linehan and his assistant, Erin, were wonderful to work with. I had a case that lasted a few years and at no point did I feel that I was out of the loop or neglected in any way. Their professionalism, communication and quick response time, thorough preparation, insightful knowledge and extensive experience were excellent. I would recommend Mr. Linehan to anyone needing counsel.
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24 Sep, 2021 by John
Joe Linehan and the team at Allen | Fischer did a wonderful job at representing me. They where really involved and very personable to work with. They gladly took on my case and went out of their way to meet with me on their lunch hour and went above and beyond to make sure I was well represented and won my case. Kudos to the A|F team.
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22 Oct, 2024 by J p
Dewey Cheatem and Howe…
Worst law firm in the country not just the state. Convinced me to accept a deal (for significantly less than they had originally advised I settle for and well below their “do not accept less than” prep talk) in mediation assuring me I would not be billed further and opposing attorney would handle all closing paperwork. Hen billed me again saying he didn’t do it right, then when I objected and reminded them of what was said, they doubled the bill and sent it again. ANYONE BUT THIS LAW FIRM, I was warned about them but unfortunately was too far in to back out and hire someone else. Any time I confronted them about anything they just threaten to withdraw and keep your money.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Vasily rotari
Don’t recommend just collected my information saying will call back called back in a 5 days and said that they are busy and would not be available.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Ronnie uzeta (skip)
An outstanding team to work with! They are incredibly responsive. The staff is not only professional but also genuinely friendly, making every interaction pleasant. Highly recommend their services!
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22 Oct, 2024 by J p
Dewey Cheatem and Howe…
Worst law firm in the country not just the state. Convinced me to accept a deal (for significantly less than they had originally advised I settle for and well below their “do not accept less than” prep talk) in mediation assuring me I would not be billed further and opposing attorney would handle all closing paperwork. Hen billed me again saying he didn’t do it right, then when I objected and reminded them of what was said, they doubled the bill and sent it again. ANYONE BUT THIS LAW FIRM, I was warned about them but unfortunately was too far in to back out and hire someone else. Any time I confronted them about anything they just threaten to withdraw and keep your money.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Vasily rotari
Don’t recommend just collected my information saying will call back called back in a 5 days and said that they are busy and would not be available.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Ronnie uzeta (skip)
An outstanding team to work with! They are incredibly responsive. The staff is not only professional but also genuinely friendly, making every interaction pleasant. Highly recommend their services!
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23 Jun, 2024 by Savannah halsey
Zero stars. I don't know what makes him decide to do his job with clients but he definitely didn't do it with my wife and I. He emailed saying he failed at representing us after doing nothing but taking my money, Waist of 3000$. If you don't want to do your job every day then don't do this kind of work because your actions affects can ruin lives.
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20 Feb, 2024 by Joann waldo
Jamie represented me in a business boundary dispute. Jamie worked very hard and researched information about dispute. Jamie settled the problem without going to court. Jamie is very professional. I recommend Jamie as your attorney.
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05 Feb, 2024 by Danielle linneus
Didn’t represent me well. Made mistakes in my case that had to be fixed with another firm. Do NOT recommend. Caused me extra stress during a difficult time and financial burdens. I’d give them zero stars if that was an option.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Savannah halsey
Zero stars. I don't know what makes him decide to do his job with clients but he definitely didn't do it with my wife and I. He emailed saying he failed at representing us after doing nothing but taking my money, Waist of 3000$. If you don't want to do your job every day then don't do this kind of work because your actions affects can ruin lives.
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20 Feb, 2024 by Joann waldo
Jamie represented me in a business boundary dispute. Jamie worked very hard and researched information about dispute. Jamie settled the problem without going to court. Jamie is very professional. I recommend Jamie as your attorney.
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05 Feb, 2024 by Danielle linneus
Didn’t represent me well. Made mistakes in my case that had to be fixed with another firm. Do NOT recommend. Caused me extra stress during a difficult time and financial burdens. I’d give them zero stars if that was an option.
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22 Oct, 2024 by J p
Dewey Cheatem and Howe…
Worst law firm in the country not just the state. Convinced me to accept a deal (for significantly less than they had originally advised I settle for and well below their “do not accept less than” prep talk) in mediation assuring me I would not be billed further and opposing attorney would handle all closing paperwork. Hen billed me again saying he didn’t do it right, then when I objected and reminded them of what was said, they doubled the bill and sent it again. ANYONE BUT THIS LAW FIRM, I was warned about them but unfortunately was too far in to back out and hire someone else. Any time I confronted them about anything they just threaten to withdraw and keep your money.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Vasily rotari
Don’t recommend just collected my information saying will call back called back in a 5 days and said that they are busy and would not be available.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Ronnie uzeta (skip)
An outstanding team to work with! They are incredibly responsive. The staff is not only professional but also genuinely friendly, making every interaction pleasant. Highly recommend their services!
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11 Aug, 2024 by Kyle osborn
Diane was professional and courteous, and quite expensive. But she is worth it. She helped me keep my cool through the divorce process. Explained everything in detail and made herself available for many phone calls, which a normal person would try to limit. 😆 My only regret was being Pro Se in the begging of my divorce and not hiring her sooner. I may not have “won” in court, but she did help me mediate instead of going through a potentially expensive trial, which would have irreparably damaged my business. Thank you Diane, for all your help. I’ll definitely use your services again in the future.
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27 Apr, 2023 by Jason cokley
Diane was absolutely outstanding from day one and gave me step by step what was going to happen and had a plan in case it didn’t go that way. Whenever I called she was always available and I was in a completely different state!! Money well spent and she’s a straight shooter which was the best thing about our attorney/client relationship
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09 Apr, 2023 by Sheila brown miller
Unprofessional. Don't waste your time. They made me wait two weeks for an appointment then cancelled at the last minute. Plenty of larger firms with more resources to choose from in Washington. You get what you pay for and this firm is cheap. Keep that in mind, that price comes at a cost like time wasted.
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09 Apr, 2019 by Emery
I hired her in 2017 about July for a standard parenting plan, who then proceeded to do nothing until i knocked on her door that november, furious gonna fire the lady. They assured me they would hop on it and get things done. the following summer around august nothing still has happened except my daughter being taken out of the country. They charged ME to do their job. In which i looked up applicable laws wrote a letter and got my resolution, christmas after spamming her garbage answering service 27 calls i finally got her to answer to which i give her 30 days to do something. Nothing of course was done, by the time March 2019 is over she is fired and i find she charged me $2400+ to do nothing. In addition she thought it necessary to contact my mother to plead for her status as my lawyer. A person she was not authorized to communicate with about my case or her dealings with me. Yes I filed a grievance and no I am not at all done.
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25 Sep, 2018 by Jacqueline
Connie fought for me even when I was not fighting for myself. She kept the emotions out of the proceedings, but was compassionate when I needed it. Would recommend her and her staff for anyone going through this turmoil.
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28 May, 2018 by Mark
I thought long and hard about how I wanted to have redress from this attorney, who I believe overcharges. I tried reaching out to her after my matter finished in court, but she ignored me. I had a family court matter that I needed to be adjudicated in Washington. It was mutually agreed between my ex-spouse and me, a straightforward case. The case was initially in New York State, but since no party no longer lives there, I thought it would be wise to have registered in the jurisdiction in which the children live, as they will be graduating high school soon. My ex and I came up with an agreement, just needed a lawyer to handle the mechanics and file it. Neither of us had to appear in court; there were no hearings, no trial. Connie charged me 7500 dollars for what was a routine matter. Stay away from this attorney; you will be asked to sign a ‘minimum fee’ agreement, not a ‘retainer’; I wish I had paid closer attention, my mistake can be your learning experience. If she works 1 hour or 50, you pay the same. I think she violates Washington statutes about excessive fees, but I have a life and decided to move on. Learn from my experience, find another attorney, this one had the paralegal draw everything up, using forms that anyone can download from the state (fill-in forms). I only talked to Connie for about 20 minutes during the entire process, is that worth $7500? For a routine matter? No, it is not. Find another attorney that has reasonable fees. I speak as someone that has had lawyers in the NY metro area were the rates are much higher and have represented myself in court on both child support and custody. There is no way she earned that $7500, I specifically asked for an accounting (along with my complaint about the fee) of all the time spent, both by email and in writing. I was ignored, so now I take to the forums.
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11 Sep, 2016 by Dianne
I have found Mrs. Nelson to be a very dedicated lawyer. She has returned my phone calls quickly and she is an excellent listener! She knows the law so well that I am very pleased with the results!
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08 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Emily was just the greatest. I didn't have my kids and I felt like my whole life was over. Emily took the time to sit down and just guide me through everything. We've been through so much together, I had to do treatment and had a few issues, but she stood up for me in court and was a real fighter. Even when all the prosecutors and social workers were all against me, and said there's no hope you just got to give it up, Emily was in my corner! She is so awesome! She helped me understand what I needed to do, and I made it through. My kids are with me, I have a new place now, and they are in school and doing good. I am so happy I listened to Emily and got through the whole thing. I really coulln't have done it without her.
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07 Aug, 2016 by Deann
I will never forget the day I was appointed Emily Nelson as my new attorney in my cps case... The joy of getting a new lawyer, after having 2 previous outright lazy/non caring court appointed lawyers, I really thought that it couldn't get any worse... Well I was yet to get the biggest shock of my entire life.. To make a very long story short, I'll start by saying that from the very first meeting with Emily, she was already ready to be done with my case, it was always some really weird conversation with her about how I should do one thing this way then literally the next week her saying "ok nevermind let's go about it this way" and as soon as I would start doing something she had recommended, bam "now let's do it the original way" I mean this kept up the entire 6 plus months I had her for my attorney.. Though there is soo much more this woman has wrongfully done to me, as well consequently to my family, I'll finish by saying that the most disturbing of it all was when my termination trial was fastly approaching, she told me over and over that I did not need to appear for the trial if that was the choice I'd like to make as we'd been discussing the idea of me not attending as my in-laws and a lot of their friends would be there to take the stand against me, and since the judge allowed them to attend because of open court policy, I would have to be in their presence, so with already having anxiety issues, that was not an option I could bear, so Emily told me not to worry about going, that she'd have everything covered without me having to attend.. Well the trial came and went and to this day (months later) I have never heard again from Emily, no phone call, no email, nothing in the mail, and in fact never again heard from my social worker in my case, or my children's ad litem, just didn't hear from absolutely no one, nothing from the court's either. The only way I and the father to my children found out we lost custody of our children was through the grapevine to at which time I heard that at the day of the termination trial Emily had stood in front of the judge and said "I have nothing to address to the court as my client (me) has fired her" I just about lost it hearing this betrayal (I of course never fired her) from the one person that told me she would take of my case as straightforward and as passionately as she has all her client's before me (I guess I should of known better); My case was, as Emily also stated, a shut and close case, all about a messy house that got out of hand due to recovering from my 4th c-section with bleeding complications months after... Please I beg of anyone considering Emily Nelson as their next lawyer, just don't risk it, there are plenty of other lawyers out there that most likely don't carry that kind of deviant behavior... I'm just writing this review in hopes to prevent someone else from going through the heartache such as I have. Thanks for taking the time to read this, and sorry for it being so long.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
If you're looking for a lawyer to speak to you with compassion and understanding during what is likely a very stressful time in your life, I strongly advise you to look elsewhere.
If you're looking for aggressive representation and an advocate who genuinely has your best interests at heart, this is not the place for you.
You deserve a lawyer who will treat you with respect and fight for your interests.
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17 Feb, 2024 by Scott
Mark was informative and helpful throughout the process. He always returned my calls and emails promptly. He made sure things were done correctly and efficiently and did not waste my time or overcharge me. He knows how to get to the heart of the matter. I also felt he treated my ex with respect. His staff was kind and professional, especially Rosalind his paralegal that was involved. Mark has a toughness and expertise combined with empathy that make me want to tell you that he is an excellent choice to represent you.
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04 Feb, 2024 by Doran
I missed a court date that his office never notified me about. He was unprepared for hearings and said he had other cases going. That cost me $1,500 In her attorney fees. He never sent the $23,000 check back. That cost me another $1,500 in attorney fees. I had to search the court docket and notify him of this court date. He apologized for not sending the check back and said he’d make it right. When I told him he could cover the fees and not charge me his, he filed to remove himself as counsel. Gave the wrong email address so I was not notified. I had to see it searching to see if I had anymore court dates.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Cary rux
We recently asked Robert to review a contract. His advice and approval was exactly what we needed. Robert was prompt, professional and extremely helpful. We have enjoyed working with him so far and this latest experience has only further extended our confidence in him and his work. He is a trusted advisor and a key part of our team. We would highly recommend Robert.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Brenda fowler
Called to ask if this attorney handled the type of issue we needed him for. What a joke. He interrupted me and hung up before I had a chance to even say good bye at the end of the call. A very sad little man.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Katelyn fowler
Called to ask him about his services and if they applied to an issue I was having so I could potentially hire him, and he wouldn’t even say what his services were for and he hung up on me. Extremely rude. Don’t do business with him. Look somewhere else.
Edit: You didn’t even give us the time to ask what your services were. From the information I’ve gathered it sounds like they would’ve applied to our problem but you just lost a potential client. Have the day you deserve.
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14 Aug, 2023 by Nicole
The case that I had was a difficult and unfortunate one for any parent to have to go through. It was a continual roller coaster of emotions as a parent, and Jacob was empathetic the entire way with no judgment. There were multiple twists and turns along the way and he was able to be a creative flexible thinker throughout. Jacob was very responsive and efficient with his time and mine. The conversations were very candid and he ensured I understood all possible outcomes so nothing would be of surprise. In the end, the case went in my favor and he made sure it was buttoned up neat and tight. I would recommend Jacob and his team to any individual seeking counsel in family matters!
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14 Mar, 2023 by Ryan
Mr. Allen represented me as a very professional and knowledgeable attorney during my family law case. I highly recommend Mr. Allen to anyone whom may find themselves in the unfortunate situation of needing a family law attorney.
Mr. Allen's communication skills are impeccable, keeping me informed every step of the way while giving me sound legal advice.
Although Mr. Allen and myself maintained a professional relationship during my case I feel as though we are parting ways as feiends. Mr. Allen is extremely personable and a very good listener. My case was quite complex yet Mr. Allen was well-informed of even the smallest details.
I highly recommend Mr. Allen!!!
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20 Jan, 2023 by Alicia
Hiring Jacob Allen as my attorney for my recent divorce and child custody case was the best decision I could have made. He was prompt and encouraging every step of the way. He was always available and patient with me to explain the process and provide reassurance when needed. He is very knowledgeable and always ensured that I was aware of all of my options prior to making decisions. Going through a divorce is extremely stressful but it was wonderful to have such a strong and competent attorney in my corner. Should I require family law counsel in the future, Jacob Allen will be my first call. I would recommend him to any of my family or friends.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired the Law Office of Paul B. Mack for a divorce and couldn't have been happier. They were receptive to my financial constraints and got me great results outside of court. I can't recommend them more.
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10 Jan, 2017 by Joe
I was told he was the best in Spokane, in my opinion he and his associates are the worst. I paid him tens of thousands of dollars and received very little in the way of competent representation. I was promised that he would personally ensure my case would be a priority after one of his associates left the practice and a new one took over my case and I believed him. That was huge mistake on my part, I feel like he will tell you anything to get your money.
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23 Mar, 2015 by Sabrina
Paul is awesome he got me what I wanted and we didn't even have to go to court. He let me know when I was asking for too little or too much. If you decide to go with paul as your lawyer you will not be sorry.
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28 Apr, 2023 by Jocelyn
Me gustan los servicios son muy eficientes tienen paciencia al cliente muchas gracias.
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09 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
This lawyer is not proactive at all. I have an ex that is very deceitful and asked him from the beginning to seek definitive proof on all her statements. I’ve predicted every move she’s made. We’ve been to court three times and not once has he asked for pay stubs or anything to prove her needs. He doesn’t listen to concerns and is lazy. Does not do good research to prepare for court and allows opposing counsel a competitive advantage by allowing them more time than I was allowed to prepare statements. He gets outplayed in strategy by lawyers less experienced and can’t conduct himself in a confident manner before the authority of court. He does not raise concerns about damaging judgements at the end of arguments when asked by the authority of the court. I spend one third of my time and money arguing with him on trying to get him to do what I want him to do and he has all kinds of excuses for his failures. Don’t waste your time or money. He has not protected me or represented me at all. I’ve asked for specific language to he included in a mediation judgement and it was not. I was misrepresented by him and the mediator in mediation and am not happy about it at all.
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09 Aug, 2019 by Gavrayell
I hired Olaf to help me get my child back from her father who took her away and I ended up with a year of three hour visits with my child. Olaf never asked for me to have more time, he would tell the judge that my child’s father worked to much, being an attorney he should have known that the court does not care about parents work schedules and argued something else but he never did. Anytime I would ask him to do something he would tell me no, like he would not get me a guardian ad litem, would not put what I wanted in my declarations, would not come up with a customized parenting plan at mediation, he would wait months before scheduling court dates or sending the opposing counsel things and when I sent him information he wouldn’t look it over. I switched attorneys and within two weeks had an agreement with my ex and signed our parenting plan.
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27 May, 2023 by Jennifer
I hired a lawyer previous to Jason for a kinda custody case and she screwed my case all up and charged me a bunch of money, Jason helped me get the visitations I deserved and was reasonably priced. He is very serious attorney and knows what he is doing.
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10 Apr, 2023 by Richard
In my divorce case I was very impressed with Mr. Nelson. I several emails I complimented Mr. Nelson and his secretary, Cheryl. on their support and professionalism during a difficult time. That was in 12/17/17. In the final divorce decree the judge awarded me a Qualified Domestic Relation Order (QDRO), for the sum of $41,000, which was to be transferred from my ex-wife's 401k into mine. I was ecstatic, but to this date the QDRO has not been filed, which I have paid for. I finally had to file a complaint with Washington State Bar Association on 4/5/2023.
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14 Nov, 2019 by Roni
I hired Jason for my divorce he wasted months of my time. He ignored repeated emails and messages for 4 months, as did his secretary, that cost me thousands in extra child support payments. Now that my divorce is final I've spent almost 2 months trying to get a final statement (which I haven't received a single one since I hired him) and the remaining balance of my retainer. I plan on filing a complaint with the bar next.
If you want a lawyer with integrity and and dependability, do not hire Jason Nelson
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What a Child Custody Lawyer Can Do for You
A child custody lawyer specializes in helping parents navigate legal matters related to the custody and care of their children, particularly in the context of divorce, separation, or other family disputes. These lawyers assist with determining custody arrangements, drafting parenting plans, and advocating for your rights in court. They also help resolve disputes over physical custody (where the child lives), legal custody (who makes decisions for the child), visitation rights, and modifications to existing custody orders.
Whether you're going through a divorce or need to change an existing custody arrangement, a child custody lawyer can help you understand your rights and protect your child's best interests throughout the legal process.
When Should I Hire a Child Custody Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child custody lawyer in several situations, especially when disputes arise or complex legal issues affect your parental rights. Some common reasons to hire a child custody lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: If you're going through a divorce or separation and need to establish custody and visitation arrangements, a lawyer can help ensure the custody order reflects your child's best interests.
- Disputed custody cases: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody or visitation terms, a lawyer can advocate for your rights in court and help you develop a strong case.
- Modification of custody orders: If you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to changes in circumstances (e.g., relocation, changes in the child’s needs), a lawyer can help file a modification request.
- Parental alienation: If the other parent is interfering with your relationship with your child, a lawyer can help address these issues through legal action.
- Domestic violence or abuse: If there is a history of domestic violence or abuse, a lawyer can help protect you and your child by requesting restraining orders and advocating for appropriate custody arrangements.
- Grandparent or third-party custody: If you are a grandparent or another relative seeking custody or visitation rights, a lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
- Paternity disputes: In cases where paternity is in question, a lawyer can assist with establishing or challenging paternity, which may affect custody and visitation rights.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help protect your parental rights and ensure that the custody arrangement is in your child's best interests.
What Does a Child Custody Lawyer Do?
A child custody lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents resolve custody disputes and secure favorable custody arrangements for their children. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing custody petitions: Helping you file the necessary paperwork to request custody or visitation rights and ensuring all legal procedures are followed.
- Negotiating custody agreements: Assisting in negotiating custody and visitation arrangements, often working toward a mutually beneficial parenting plan without going to court.
- Representing you in court: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody terms, representing you in court by presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Drafting parenting plans: Helping you draft a comprehensive parenting plan that outlines the schedule for physical custody, decision-making responsibilities, and visitation.
- Handling child support issues: Assisting with related issues such as child support, ensuring that financial obligations are properly calculated and enforced.
- Modifying custody orders: Helping you request a modification from the court if you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to significant life changes.
- Mediating custody disputes: Acting as a mediator to help both parents reach an agreement on custody and visitation without the need for litigation.
How Are Child Custody Lawyers Paid?
Child custody lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case, the time involved, and the nature of the legal work. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child custody lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer's experience and location. The total cost depends on the time spent preparing documents, negotiating, and representing you in court.
- Flat fee: For simple custody matters or uncontested custody agreements, some lawyers may offer a flat fee for specific services, such as drafting a parenting plan or filing a custody petition.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount varies based on the expected complexity and duration of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers may offer reduced fees or pro bono (free) services for clients with limited financial means, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or other serious issues.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are included.
How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child custody lawyer depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case, whether it’s contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested custody cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and any negotiations.
- Contested custody cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the issues, the need for expert testimony, and the time spent in litigation.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or complex custody disputes.
- Mediation services: If both parents agree to work through mediation, costs typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for the mediation process.
Always ask for a clear cost estimate during your consultation to ensure that you understand the total legal fees and payment structure.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Custody Lawyer
Before hiring a child custody lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Some key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with child custody cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, especially if your case involves complex issues like domestic violence, relocation, or paternity disputes. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees for certain services, or requires a retainer, and ask for an estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Inquire about the expected timeline from filing the petition to reaching an agreement or going to trial. -
Will you personally handle my case?
Ensure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
Can we pursue mediation or alternative dispute resolution?
Ask whether the lawyer recommends mediation or other forms of dispute resolution to avoid a lengthy court battle.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Custody Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child custody lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and child custody cases.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge the lawyer’s professionalism and success in child custody matters.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on custody cases.
- Check for certifications: Look for lawyers who are board-certified in family law or have memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) or local family law sections.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a child custody lawyer, come prepared with relevant documents and information:
- Court orders or existing custody agreements: Bring copies of any existing custody or visitation orders for the lawyer to review.
- Communication with the other parent: Provide copies of emails, texts, or letters regarding custody, visitation, or disputes.
- List of your child’s needs: Prepare a list of your child’s specific needs, such as medical care, education, and extracurricular activities.
- Timeline of the case: Outline key events related to your custody case, including changes in living situations or parental involvement.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the custody process, legal fees, and the lawyer’s strategy for your case.
By being well-prepared, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible advice for protecting your rights and your child’s well-being.
