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14 Apr, 2024 by Ernest maina
I really appreciate Shawna Baker Esq and her team, they were very thorough and kept me updated with my case, it was a privilege to be represented by her and her team, I highly recommend her.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Jan starke
09 Aug, 2023 by Heather garner
Planning your future is never easy but Shawna was wonderful to work with. Very knowledgeable and patient. Highly recommend.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Taylor rae
Would recommend this attorney and his assistant, the favorable outcome was achieved. Much appreciated for all their hard work and services. Thank you.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Sarah cordell
30 May, 2024 by Kiayna smith
Ryan was very helpful with explaining how everything will turn out and the process behind it.
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04 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Ben is by far not only a great lawyer, but one of the better people you will come across.. during my legal situation he never left me second guessing, in fear and always remained in control of every aspect of my case. I have often heard that Family Court cases can get out of hand very quickly. Ben kept the situation in control.. Would recommend x1000!
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17 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Went through a divorce and was completely lost. Ben was able to fight for the light at the end of the tunnel for me. I could not be where I am in my life at this point without having sought counsel with Ben. His paralegal, Connie, is a true gem and extremely helpful. Janet, the secretary is equally as patient, kind and efficient. Ben has a calm demeanor, but will fight for you, never steer you in the wrong direction and is worth every dime. He makes the best use of your money and your time. I am finally done and feel like he was the best investment I’ve made even during a truly awful time.
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12 Feb, 2020 by Dianna
I could not have asked for better. He doesn’t screw around or give you unrealistic expectations. He knows lawyers are expensive and makes the best use of his time. His follow up is exceptional and doesn’t leave you hanging or wondering what’s next. And most importantly he knows his stuff. He gets it done and is on YOUR side. I had the best outcome possible and he exceeded all my expectations. Would definitely use again!
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26 Jun, 2015 by Corrie
I did a lot of research before selecting Tiffany Graves as my attorney, and I am very pleased with my choice. She has gone above and beyond to make sure my case is handled well. She communicates wonderfully. I've never felt out of the loop. She's a good balance of knowledgeable, professional, and understanding. I've recommended her to several people and will continue to do so.
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23 Jun, 2015 by Amanda
Tiffany did a wonderful job representing me! She fought for me and demonstrated such a commitment to attaining the best outcome for my case. Tiffany truly cares for her clients. If you're needing an attorney, I highly recommend her!
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20 Jun, 2015 by Jeremy
Tiffany really helped me out when I needed it most. She explained the process to me and made sure I understood what was happening along the way. Would definitely recommend her to others!
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26 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Keith Jones has been the most ethical, realistic, and smartest attorney I've ever met. He lets me know what to expect, breaks down processes in detail, and works hard to do his job right. I don't like going tp court with all the strangers, MY EX HUSBAND, and the emotional charge that's generally accompanied with custody battles, but Keith Jones makes me feel comfident and secure in my decisions and most of all the decision to ask for his help. I believe he's a man that can lay his head on his pillow at night with a clear conscience and peace of mind because he has morals. I haven't known him long and my custody case isn't over, but I have a strong feeling that I don't have to worry. I wish there were more attorneys like him so justice can be served the right way for good people out there than need help and don't have the right words to say. Thanks mr. Jones. With all my heart.
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22 Mar, 2015 by Andrew.
Keith for me has been my legal go-to for many years. His Knowledge of family law in my divorce and even years after has helped me to weather the often frustrating and helpless feelings that come with a divorce. He has more than once shown me that a quick reaction is often the wrong way to handle conflicts and that a soft touch in some cases helps to reflect some positive light towards me as a person in a tough situation. I would recommend Keith jones for his deeply rooted beliefs in justice and also in the integral concept of family. Because at some point with kids there will be plenty of opportunities to be the bigger person and not have to wish that things had been handled differently.
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04 Dec, 2018 by Jeriah
Amy was very thorough and detailed. She stood and fought for me in the courtroom and helped get things right and in the best interest of my case. She has a DHS background which is a great asset in family law. Amy is very personable, passionate and driven. The end results of my case went far better than I ever dreamed possible thanks to Amy and her guidance. Would highly recommend!!
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04 Dec, 2018 by Chrissy
Amy has taken such care to our case and kills it in court. She is always two steps ahead of the other side and prepares for trial in great detail. With her background at DHS she knows the system with child support as well, which proved to be helpful for us.
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02 Apr, 2017 by Shawn a.
I was a father fighting for sole custody of my daughter. I used Mr. Carroll along with Jim Feamster for my child custody case. It was VERY complicated. It took 2 years & a 6 day trial to be awarded sole custody of my daughter. It was a father vs. mother in the state of OK. We all know that is very difficult.
It was a long difficult process. But, they advised me through EVERY step along the way. At times I have to admit I thought OMG this can't be right :( But, everything they advised was EXACTLY what I need to do to win my case.
I will FOREVER me grateful to them for the hard work & perseverance that it took for my WIN!
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06 Jun, 2024 by Soheler chele
30 Jul, 2024 by Troy boyer
25 Jun, 2024 by Tyler brinkley
I would recommend and will use Chandler Moxley for all my legal needs from here on out! I had a pretty rough divorce and Chandler made the process extremely smooth during the difficult time. Her response time was absolutely amazing. She listened to my concerns. She is very smart and knowledgeable. The outcome was better than I could have imagined. She values her clients and her legal team is amazing! Her firm did an outstanding job. I couldn’t be happier with her team and the results. I would highly recommend Moxley law firm for any legal needs and especially divorce.
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07 May, 2024 by Randy kennon
Fantastic service, great communication, and knowledgeable. I highly recommend.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Troy boyer
25 Jun, 2024 by Tyler brinkley
I would recommend and will use Chandler Moxley for all my legal needs from here on out! I had a pretty rough divorce and Chandler made the process extremely smooth during the difficult time. Her response time was absolutely amazing. She listened to my concerns. She is very smart and knowledgeable. The outcome was better than I could have imagined. She values her clients and her legal team is amazing! Her firm did an outstanding job. I couldn’t be happier with her team and the results. I would highly recommend Moxley law firm for any legal needs and especially divorce.
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07 May, 2024 by Randy kennon
Fantastic service, great communication, and knowledgeable. I highly recommend.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I knew Moura was the right attorney for me when we first met. She is smart, sympathetic, pragmatic-a talented advocate and problem-solver. It was important to me to avoid litigation, reduce conflict and reach a private, out-of-court settlement. Moura told me about the Collaborative Divorce Process, and it was the best choice for both of us, for our children and our business interests. My wife and I were able to get through our break-up efficiently and cost-effectively without hating each other in the end and causing our kids to need lifelong therapy because of our divorce. Highly recommend this skilled professional.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Sharon collins
Excellent and frequent communication.
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25 May, 2023 by Lorelei andrews
Love working with Lindsey Kaiser. She is very professional and responds quickly.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Maynor bueso
El abogado es excelente. El abogado es sabio y ganó mi caso. Siempre pude comunicarme co el abogado directamente en español. Muy agradecido al abogado Parrish.
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06 Nov, 2024 by Ngoih don
01 Nov, 2024 by Diego vega
Gracias por ayudarme. Recomiendo al abogado Parrish 100%. El abogado y su asistente hablan español y pude comunicarme con ellos directamente.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Valentin t
It was a real pleasure to work with Orndorff Law. Really professional and helpful, I recommend them!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Ray ishee
I had spent two weeks looking for an attorney and had recieved the same statement from every one, "there just isn't enough money in it for me sorry and good luck" so I was about to give up when Chris called me late one Friday and said you have been done wrong let see what I can do. The next Friday he called again and had worked magic for me. He said we really can't take the case bit I want to do something for you and he did great ppl highly recommend
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20 Jun, 2024 by Darline johnson
I’m still waiting for my bankruptcy
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28 Aug, 2024 by Valentin t
It was a real pleasure to work with Orndorff Law. Really professional and helpful, I recommend them!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Ray ishee
I had spent two weeks looking for an attorney and had recieved the same statement from every one, "there just isn't enough money in it for me sorry and good luck" so I was about to give up when Chris called me late one Friday and said you have been done wrong let see what I can do. The next Friday he called again and had worked magic for me. He said we really can't take the case bit I want to do something for you and he did great ppl highly recommend
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20 Jun, 2024 by Darline johnson
I’m still waiting for my bankruptcy
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05 Sep, 2024 by Tabitha fuentes
I was not sure where to go when I was needing a needing a divorce settled, but I am so glad I stumbled across Parsons, Graham & Day. They lifted the stress of it all right off my shoulders! And they were very easy to work with all my requests, going above and beyond to make sure we’d land on a positive end result. I truly appreciate all the hard work and dedication to my case
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21 Aug, 2024 by Erica lyle
Parsons did an amazing job with my husband’s case . The team was professional, efficient, and exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend them! Thank You!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Dawson cooper
“I got my first charge ever and Isaiah Parsons did an amazing job handling my case for me. Very professional and handled all my questions and concerns greatly! If you need an attorney for anything criminal Isaiah Parsons is the best attorney for it!”
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28 Aug, 2024 by Valentin t
It was a real pleasure to work with Orndorff Law. Really professional and helpful, I recommend them!
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02 Aug, 2024 by Ray ishee
I had spent two weeks looking for an attorney and had recieved the same statement from every one, "there just isn't enough money in it for me sorry and good luck" so I was about to give up when Chris called me late one Friday and said you have been done wrong let see what I can do. The next Friday he called again and had worked magic for me. He said we really can't take the case bit I want to do something for you and he did great ppl highly recommend
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20 Jun, 2024 by Darline johnson
I’m still waiting for my bankruptcy
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26 Sep, 2024 by Coltan banks
Saved me from losing a lot of time in prison can’t thank him enough
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28 May, 2024 by Micki wright
09 Mar, 2024 by Tiny ryan campbell
19 May, 2021 by Brandon
I contacted Harold after my now ex wife walked away from the marital residence and left our children with me. This divorce took 1 year and Harold became very personal with me and took the time to get to know me personally. He went above and beyond to protect my assets and listened to my fears and walked me through any and all questions I had regarding a divorce. Harold went above and beyond with everything he did especially with a high conflict divorce with 3 children involved. I would highly recommend Harold Thompson to anyone in need of a divorce lawyer. I know what people think, "Lawyers are lawyers". But I could literally reach Mr. Thompson any day of the week if it was important enough. He brought to the table a level of professionalism and more importantly, "Integrity", which is something of a pipe dream nowadays. Harold is honest and will tell you the harsh truth when It needs to be said to you. He knows when to push and when to back off. I respect him for that. I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer to represent me in the courtroom and honestly consider him a friend now. He fought for me insanely hard and I couldn't have asked for more! God bless you Mr. Thompson.
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30 Apr, 2020 by Sheeyen vue
My wife took my daughter and left me devastated. I called 7 different attorneys and 5 of them were just cold robots who only cared about telling me how much they cost and how little time I had to tell them about my case. At my lowest point while waiting for a call back, Attorney Harold Thompson called me. One of the reputable law firms I contacted were booked and so passed my information onto Harold. Harold Thompson consoled me first and made me feel as though he was sitting right next to me. He then listened to my case for as long as I needed him to and then told me he how he would fight for me as hard or as long as I needed him to. He did not try to nickle and dime me like the other attorneys and informed me of his FLAT rate and worked with me on payment options. His process to get things started was straight forward and to the point. He started working immediately and was more knowledgeable and more insightful than other attorneys. He professionally communicated with my wife and then back with me and was able to determine that divorce and a custody battle would be extreme at this point. Other attorneys would had just thought how they could keep money flowing into their pockets. Harold on the other hand recommended a less costly option. Communication had opened back up with me and my wife and my family is back together now thanks to Harold's involvement. Harold Thompson is not just a wonderful attorney but a caring and understanding person who is devoted to helping people and not destroying families.
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28 Mar, 2019 by Kenia
Totally recommend Harold for any child custody case. He is very helpful and very respectful. Child custody is a very sensitive topic but he was able to provide all the information I needed in order to have the case resolved. He goes that extra mile to get you what you need/deserve. Thank you for your honesty and your services
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30 Sep, 2024 by Iultratryhard sweat
15 Mar, 2024 by Katelyn denney
Hands down best attorney in town. He actually did my divorce in a matter of 10 days. He was very professional yet I felt like I had support through the entire process. His staff was very accommodating and treated me like a true priority. I wish I could give a 10 star review!! Thank you so much to Greg and everyone at Greg Denney Law who helped me start over!
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14 Mar, 2024 by David reynolds
Greg Denney represented me in an auto accident where a truck side swiped my vehicle causing me to get pushed off the road where I struck a tree head on and the person responsible kept driving. Greg Denney was the best attorney I have ever had. He genuinely cared and made me feel like family not just a client and a pay day. He was swift dealing with the insurance companies and I received more than I ever expected to get. I also had the privilege of being in court on an unrelated matter and got to see him representing one of his clients in a criminal case and I almost felt sorry for the prosecutor cause Greg chewed him up and spit him out and got the case dismissed effortlessly. He is super sharp with the laws and definitely who you want representing you and your family
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jones
Our family used Jeffrey to modify visitation on a child custody case. It was simple. He promised to have the document written up in 2 weeks. We didn't hear from him for 3 months. His paralegal staff would randomly text every Friday incomplete sentences which he charged us for. After 1.5 years of frustration, the updated document that everyone signed was never filed but instead the same original document was filed. We paid $5000 for absolutely nothing and we endured a 1.5 years of frustration and arguing with his office. His office staff is horrible and he did nothing as a lawyer. DON'T HIRE HIM!
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24 Aug, 2024 by John bowling
I mentored Jeff through law school. Now he’s my lawyer i have that much confidence in him.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Mark tulsa
Both Tiffany and Russell really care about their clients. Highly recommend for too notch service.
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02 Feb, 2024 by Joshua redmond
She was good and thorough to make sure my contract would not go against me.. She also was good enough to review my contract at the last minute and with short notice.
But the charges beyond the retainer were outrageous! Over $1500 just for emails communications alone. Hopefully, I get what I paid for and my contract is iron clad 🤞 🙏
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03 Jan, 2024 by Erin
Melissa and her staff were very attentive to the case that we were faced with. She and her amazing staff went above and beyond for us. It was very comforting to know we had this amazing law firm, they were nothing less than incredible every step of the way.
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23 Sep, 2023 by Tyler cline
Melissa F Cornell is dangerous. With a reputation for mudslinging and parental alienation tactics, if you're going for ethical, id highly advise you seek counsel elsewhere. Ms. Cornells actions have placed my four children in danger, as well as dissociated them with a loving home and family. God holds a special place for those who harm our children.
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03 Mar, 2017 by Sasha
I've used Matt's legal services a few times. He's extremely knowledgeable, one of the nicest people I've ever met and incredibly helpful. I've been recommending and referring people to use him as their attorney for almost a decade and will continue to do so.
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23 Feb, 2017 by Scott
matt answers any concerns that i have and is always ready to help,he is fair and willing to work with me to make things as easy as possible
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20 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Gomez was very professional and always got back to me very quickly. His staff is awesome as well. His prices were surprisingly affordable even though I had a very tough case. He got justice for me and my family. Definitely recommend him to anyone!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Donna williams
Doug Thomas is an excellent attorney. Very professional & caring about his clients.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Christian mcmahan
With how slow and manipulative the judiciary system is in Oklahoma, if you need a law office to handle any situation that arises, Kania Law Office is the place to go.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Me
Kelly and Charles,both were quick to help me,and were able to help me resolve my situation.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Kinsleigh
Hire Scott Sherrell!!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Mikah swisher
Richard Moore and his paralegal Amit have been amazing and super helpful thus far into my divorce process. With it already being a difficult time, they are doing everything to keep my mind at ease and handling my case in a delicate manner with a minor child being involved. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a lawyer that cares about the outcome!
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18 Jul, 2024 by Sarah bethscheider
27 Aug, 2024 by Kinsleigh
Hire Scott Sherrell!!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Mikah swisher
Richard Moore and his paralegal Amit have been amazing and super helpful thus far into my divorce process. With it already being a difficult time, they are doing everything to keep my mind at ease and handling my case in a delicate manner with a minor child being involved. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a lawyer that cares about the outcome!
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18 Jul, 2024 by Sarah bethscheider
10 Oct, 2016 by Alex
I hired Ms. Gragg after dismissing my previous attorney for misrepresentation and failure to keep me informed with my case in March 2016, and paid services upon agreement. Ms Gragg started off carrying and concerned for my needs. She was able to pick up well where the previous attorney left off and was able to keep us from having to go to trial. Both parties were ready to settle in April 2016. but neither myself or teh respondents attorney were able to get in contact with Ms Gragg. I finally made contact with Ms. Gragg the weekend before our next court date in July 2016 in which she informed me she was out of town on vacation. She failed to show up to court that following Monday, although we did have a scheduled meeting at the defendants attorneys office, however the respondents attorney did show up to court. Both parties agreed to terms and Ms Gragg was suppose to have the divorce decree draft to me Thursday that same week but failed to do so. After numerous calls, text, and emails I was finally able to get a copy of the decree 2 weeks later and one was finally sent to the respondents attorney in August. Additional literature was added to the decree that was not mentioned in our meeting, so it was not signed. Both myself and the tried contacting Ms Gragg and no returned calls to myself or the respondents attorney. Ms Gragg's phone often goes to a prerecorded message that stats she is not accepting calls at this time. She does not return calls as per her voicemail within 24 to 48 hours (when she does have a voicemail active), she does not return text messages (as she stated her preferred choice of communication), and she does not respond to emails. It is now October and we have court today, I am still not able to contact Ms Gragg. I am now faced with either having the respondents attorney draft the paperwork in which case I will have to pray Ms Gragg can show up to read it and make sure everything is correct to finalize the divorce, fire Ms Gragg and take the chances on my own that all the legal paperwork is worded correctly, or hire another attorney costing me further money.
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10 Jun, 2016 by Jade paschal
Hired Mrs. Gragg March. Seemed capable and supportive, willing to get the job done.
Paid services asap, submitted all documents she needed fast and quickly. Waited and inquired about paperwork regarding termination of parental rights to be filed and child support filed. She answered and stated all work had been submitted. I called late April nothing had been turned in, continued to call her. She stated they may have lost work she would turn it in again. Called again in May nothing was on file in Oklahoma. Called her continuously until she finally answered said she will submit again and send me copy. Court order was submitted that May when I repeatedly asked her, nothing to DHS still.... Paperwork pending still at court, cannot get a hold of her by phone or emails. Can't hire another lawyer or do anything. Upset single mother paid and saved money to hire her thinking she was proficient and seemed very caring. Nothing still no word no call back... Pending and upset... June 2016 ....
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24 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I acquired Mrs. Gregg's services in November 2014. Here we are in July 2015 and I have had zero resolution to my case. Unfortunately, I live in another state and trusted Mrs. Gregg with a visitation battle for my daughter. Before obtaining her legal services Mrs. Gregg reassured me several times that she was a perfect fit for my circumstances. Mrs. Gregg did create the motion in January of 2015 but did not file it with the court after promising to do so. I have not had any correspondence from Mrs.Gregg since April of 2015. I have emailed, called, and text her office with no response. Do yourself a favor and find reputable lawyer because this practice is fair from professional.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Andrew
I hired this lawyer for a divorce case a year or so back. He is incredibly polite, calm, knowledged, and fought for me harder than I even fought for myself in court. Would highly reccomend this lawyer.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Anne
I contacted Jason in July 2023 to get my POA and trust documents written to have available for my son whenever I pass away. I paid in full (his rule - now I know why). He got the documents to me in August (I believe).
I contacted him on 9/1 for two blank forms from one of the documents so I could type up what I wanted on them. He offered to get that done for me. I emailed 5 times, text, and called the office and his cell. I finally received the complete 4 documents again on 12/27/23 (almost four months later!); two of which had the wrong names on them. I contacted him immediately and informed him; and had to email another 4 times.
Jason kept blaming ME for this taking so long (you could have called; you could have text). I DID these things; he never responded until I told him he was fired and I would be finding a competent attorney.
I received the "corrected" documents 3/11/24; two documents had an incorrect address; one document had my name misspelled; and there were other typos. Last week, he text me that he would issue me a partial refund.
This week, he is refusing me any refund.
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08 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
If you intentions are to maintain or gain custody of your child or children DO NOT USE Jason Lile as your Attorney. He is just there to take your money. Mr. Lile wasn't very professional leading up to court, and was extremely outclassed in the court room by opposing counsel. I realize that there are a lot of us out that this may be your first time hiring a attorney. The truth is you don't know what you don't know until it happens and you wished you were represented by the type of attorney who advised you properly and was working in your best interest. Please don't make the same mistake I made in choosing Mr. Lile expecting him to be that type of attorney because he is not, you will lose your kids no matter if your a great mother or father with his representation.
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28 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
So it goes like this.
Marijuana possession case. Mark speaks to me like I'm a child. Sets up a court date. The court "loses" my documents. I showed up to 5 separate appearances at which I was simply rescheduled. 4 of which nether he nor his representation appeared at all. Yes I was left alone! 3 times! In court! Then, turns out he literally couldn't do anything about my case anyway and neither could his paralegals, whom by the way didn't even know my name! Ridiculous. If you want to waste your money, how these people. "An attorney you can count on" to sit at home and do nothing while you have to represent yourself. I found out that he evidently is a truck driver now because he's a terrible lawyer. Go figure.
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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.
