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13 Dec, 2024 by Akeem payne
Hello, I want to thank my former Attorney named Ms. Rylee Broyles for helping me with my divorce case. Even tho I felt that my entire experience was about me paying more money and if not, she would not represent me. I felt as if she was all about money in order to help me but really didn't care about me nor my situation. But I hung in their throughout the process and she was patience with me and helping me understand steps that I never understood myself. This was my very first time needed to hire a real Attorney but she helped me overall and she made sure that we came out on top. I felt better in the end. I want to sincerely thank Ms. Broyles and her assistant and others that contributed to the case and for us winning. Smile on my face for sure. I would say my experience was worth it and Ms. Broyles is very good at what she does and fight hard to make sure that her client is happy with the results. May God truly bless you for all of your hard work. Thank you all when I needed you the most. For future references, if anyone chooses these Attorneys from this law firm, please have enough money for them to help you, that plays a huge part of it. Not talking bad about none of the Attorneys here but if you want someone that's really good and will fight to the end, I would highly recommend Ms. Broyles for sure.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Tk54 pkm
Julia Craft was very responsive, ethical, and gave appropriate guidance. She was no-nonsense and gave realistic expectations.
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11 Nov, 2024 by Liz faudoa
Keith Edwards, one of the best lawyers out there. Definitely knows what he is doing, & is very dedicated to his job & clients. Gets the job done! Outcome was very good, definitely recommend if anyone is looking for a good lawyer & one who gets it done. Thank you for your hard work & being able to get it done for a family member.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Stephanie lee
I originally lived in Kansas when my child custody case was created and I have since moved to North Carolina. There were some issues that arose with my daughter and I had to then find a lawyer that can practice in Kansas but would be willing to work with me via zoom. I was a little nervous about hiring an attorney without sitting down face to face and discussing my case.
I called and spoke with his staff to complete my intake paperwork and those ladies were so kind and caring and then after my Zoom call with Tony, I knew that I had found the right person to represent my daughter and I.
Tony is so kind and professional and he truly listens and cares. He was very patient with me during this process and always quick to respond to emails, phone calls, etc. He will fight for you and advocate for you, all the while keeping a positive attitude.
I will continue to use Tony and his staff with any future family law needs.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Stephanie
Since my original child custody agreement was filed, I have moved out of state and once the issue arose and I needed to hire an attorney in Kansas, I came across Tony.
I worked with his staff to complete my intake paperwork and they were so nice, friendly and professional. I then had my first Zoom call with Tony and I was impressed at how he had studied my case and he already had a game plan in mind as to how we needed to proceed. I knew at that moment I had found the right person.
Over the next 6 months, Tony was so patient, understanding and professional during the whole process. He knows the law inside and out and he continued to advocate for us all the while staying positive.
I will definitely hire Tony again and recommend him to anyone that needs a family law attorney.
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26 Sep, 2023 by Sydney rickman
I first worked with Tony several years ago regarding a family law matter. I knew he was gold then and was so grateful he took me on as a client.
More recently, through a series of sad and unusual events, I became the administrator of my ex’s (and father of my child) estate, largely due to some ongoing litigation he had prior to passing.
Tony was my first call when that roller coaster started because I trusted him and knew I would need some help navigating. Through it, I worked with three other sets of attorneys I did not hire.
I can emphatically say Tony is hands down my favorite attorney. Tony has been the only attorney that I worked with that keeps at the forefront that clients are generally not attorneys and that all the not knowing through the legal process is really hard on them. Because the estate had so many moving parts, and I subsequently had a lot of questions, I got to find out how many ways Tony aims at efficiency AND keeping clients informed.
One set of attorneys was particularly awful, and I’m grateful Tony took the brunt of that so that part could get wrapped up sooner than it would have otherwise. The other two were more on the “average” side, but getting information from them was so difficult at times. The one I had the longest working relationship with also does family law, which makes me all the more emphatic in my recommendation of Tony.
He will actually listen to you. He handles the majority of his correspondence and will get back to you in a *very* timely matter, even with a busy caseload. His office staff are absolutely stellar. He really knows the law. (After my first call for the family law matter, as well as what turned into the estate, he quickly ascertained [with little information from me] what was going on and what was likely coming and gave me a spot on summary BOTH times.) Both cases had a moment of needing a strategic move, and what he arrived at was utterly brilliant, both times. He gives excellent counsel. I’ve never felt like I was just another day at the office/paycheck to him. That’s hard to do in any line of work, but especially in one that has so much routine in the day-to-day coupled with clients who are probably having a lot of rough days in a row. His billing is extremely fair, especially given he will not be wasting his time or yours and he will spare you SO MANY headaches because of how he keeps you informed and handles things as a whole. Tony somehow manages to move towards an efficient and fair resolution without getting mired in all the dramatic back and forth it’s easy to get into in a family law situation while still treating you like a person. And he does it all with the utmost integrity. He is the only attorney I’ve worked with that I would hire again (and with a swiftness). What an absolute godsend he’s been!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Ramona chapman
I highly recommend Paula and Julie. They were incredibly helpful, efficient, and transparent throughout the entire process. Their representation was thorough and exemplary.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Sheryl wesley
Nice building just dropping off paperwork
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25 Apr, 2024 by Nathan dawson
20 Nov, 2024 by David
I strongly recommend Paula. Our family is so fortunate to have found her. She went above and beyond and dedicated herself to our case as if it was her own. Our situation was a tangled web, and she navigated it masterfully and efficiently. We are happy and safe, and we owe that to the tireless effortsof Paula and Julie. Thank you both so much.
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29 Sep, 2021 by Mack
When I made the determination to retain a lawyer for my divorce, I paid the money for three separate consultations to ensure I would get the best legal representation possible. Save yourself the money and hire Paula from the beginning. When I read the very first letter from Paula to the opposing counsel, I knew immediately that I made the right decision. Between that one single letter and the threat of the exhibits Paula intended to use, the opposing counsel agreed to settle the case without going to trial. I was even surprised to receive money back. Paula did a fantastic job.
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05 Apr, 2021 by Sarah
Paula instantly made me feel safe and taken care of when I became her client. She and Julie are highly organized and knowledgeable about my case. Paula was prepared for anything the opposing side threw at us, reacted professionally and timely, and remained in complete control of the case. I never felt like the opposing attorney took control of my case. Paula knew exactly how to keep my kids safe, and made sure to provide proper evidence to the judge to do just that. She also provided all my options to me and explained them (and the possible consequences) to me when I had any questions. She was my voice of reason many times, which was so reassuring to me. I am very grateful to have Paula as my attorney. My case is now complete, and I am so peacefully relieved. She and her team did an amazing job.
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20 Mar, 2017 by Nicole
I hired Mr. McDowell and was very pleased with how he handled my case. He's very professional, he listens, and he gives every case his all. I am VERY satisfied with this lawyer and I recommend him to anyone I know who needs a good, honest, hard working lawyer!
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07 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I give Mr. McDowell a 10 star rating. 5 is not anywhere near enough stars. He is professional and I have hired him twice now for custody issues against the same father. I have walked into court confident every single time with Mr. McDowell and he ALWAYS wins my case. You cant believe all ratings that you see posted here. Mr Ray Neighbors, for instance, he is a troll. No offense to him, but do your research. He seems to really hit hard on the legal system and judges. I saw his rating and it infuriated me. Mr. McDowell is by far the best attorney around!!
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05 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I used Mr. McDowell back in 2014 and I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer! He is very attentive to the needs of his clients and responds to any questions you may have. I DEFINENTLY recommend Mr. McDowell and I will use him again in the future if needed.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Jessica ames
I've had the pleasure of working with the Lawyers at this business, previously Floodman Family Law, for about 7 years now. Everyone there is extremely nice, patient and understanding.
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15 May, 2024 by Hayden munro
26 Apr, 2024 by Joshua singer
Absolutely amazing experience the whole way though!
Megan and her team were amazing throughout the entire process. Extremely communicative with weekly updates on my case and where we were at. I was cc'd on emails to OC and felt like I was kept informed every step of the way. Megan, Kelly, and Nancy were very kind and caring. I felt like they genuinely cared about me and my case. I felt important to them. I dunno how many cases they were handling, but I definitely felt like a priority, which was important to me during this sensitive and difficult time. I can't thank Megan enough for helping me through all of this.
Divorces are difficult and painful, especially with kids. No way around that. I retained Megan Kimbrell after firing my previous lawyer, who didn't seem to care about me or my case. There was no sense of urgency or care with my last lawyer. I felt just like a number to them. But that was not the case with Megan. She was a shining light in a sea of darkness. Thank you Megan. Thank you Floodman Family Law.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Chris m
Anna and Kelly worked hard to help my wife and I on our case. Great communication through it all. Was brutally honest and amazing all around. Highly recommend
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19 Nov, 2024 by Krystal morales
Kelly and Anna are amazing. Won our case. Honest and hard working women. Truly cared. Supportive through the whole way. Highly recommend them.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Juliana phillips
I will always be eternally grateful for Kelly and the work she did for me and my family. If you want attorneys that will champion you until the end, look no further!
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02 Jul, 2024 by Andy waller
16 May, 2024 by Michele becker
The level of professionalism is top notch! So grateful for everything they did for me. A true jewel! Best all around!
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25 Apr, 2024 by Michelle e
02 Jul, 2024 by Andy waller
16 May, 2024 by Michele becker
The level of professionalism is top notch! So grateful for everything they did for me. A true jewel! Best all around!
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25 Apr, 2024 by Michelle e
16 Aug, 2024 by Mark
My wife decided to divorce me after 35 years of marriage. I was very concerned about what this would do to my financial future, and especially being late in my career, my future retirement. I had heard many horror stories about how the laws in Kansas favor the female in a divorce. Only having very limited experience with lawyers, I decided to treat my lawyer selection like an interview process. I scheduled meetings with 2 lawyers to get started. Prior to my meeting with the lawyers, I reviewed all of my divorce papers in great detail. I identified several significant concerns with the terms that my ex’s legal counsel created. My first lawyer meeting was with Desiree Smith.
When I met with Desiree, my first question was about how she was going to represent me. Was I just a lost cause, because I was a male, or was she going to fight for everything she could get for me to protect my future retirement? She reassured me that she was working for me, and she would be doing everything she could for me. She asked me several general questions to understand our financial situation, and then laid out the typical scenarios that could happen in my situation. That immediately set me at ease, knowing that my financial future was not ruined, and that I had a path forward. She then reviewed the terms in the divorce papers. Within only 3-4 minutes of review, and without my assistance, she identified every concern I had about their terms, and a couple more that I hadn’t noticed. At that point, I knew I had found the right person to represent me, and I didn't need to meet with the next lawyer.
Throughout the rest of the divorce process, Desiree’s experience and knowledge showed in every conversation we had. She could quickly discuss detail, easily recall detail from previous meetings, easily answer questions, and was able to help me think through strategies for moving forward. Every meeting I had with her was very productive.
In the end, Desiree helped get a great settlement for me, and we did it without going to court. I got a far better settlement than I ever thought possible in the beginning, and I feel like I probably got a better settlement that most divorced men. Desiree was a very big part of making that happen. I can’t say enough about her knowledge, and how she could explain legal concepts in ways easy for me to understand. Desiree was very easy to work with. I would highly recommend Desiree to help anyone through their family legal needs!
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05 May, 2024 by Eva glover
27 Apr, 2024 by Nathan dawson
28 Dec, 2024 by Robin carmichael
Incredibly friendly and helpful! Andrew is very honest and thorough with your case. We needed help with my deceased father’s estate and Andrew gave us options and was not pushy for us to make a decision. We didn’t feel uncomfortable to make a choice one way or another.
We also really appreciated his 15 minute free consultation call! His secretary sent out a questionnaire beforehand so the call could be focused on our pressing questions.
My husband and I highly recommend him!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Daniel hester
Process of getting my estate planning completed by Andrew Rowe took away the apprehension I had by being thorough during the first meeting. The electronic version was easy to navigate. All of my questions were answered to my satisfaction. It was a pleasant experience.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Howard hackney
Andrew Rowe did a review of 8 year old estate plan. I had done nothing to implement it. He gave me all the documents and directions I need to finish the estate plan. I would trust Andrew on any platform, and he treats us like family.
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29 Mar, 2024 by Stephanie lee
I originally lived in Kansas when my child custody case was created and I have since moved to North Carolina. There were some issues that arose with my daughter and I had to then find a lawyer that can practice in Kansas but would be willing to work with me via zoom. I was a little nervous about hiring an attorney without sitting down face to face and discussing my case.
I called and spoke with his staff to complete my intake paperwork and those ladies were so kind and caring and then after my Zoom call with Tony, I knew that I had found the right person to represent my daughter and I.
Tony is so kind and professional and he truly listens and cares. He was very patient with me during this process and always quick to respond to emails, phone calls, etc. He will fight for you and advocate for you, all the while keeping a positive attitude.
I will continue to use Tony and his staff with any future family law needs.
Read more
26 Sep, 2023 by Sydney rickman
I first worked with Tony several years ago regarding a family law matter. I knew he was gold then and was so grateful he took me on as a client.
More recently, through a series of sad and unusual events, I became the administrator of my ex’s (and father of my child) estate, largely due to some ongoing litigation he had prior to passing.
Tony was my first call when that roller coaster started because I trusted him and knew I would need some help navigating. Through it, I worked with three other sets of attorneys I did not hire.
I can emphatically say Tony is hands down my favorite attorney. Tony has been the only attorney that I worked with that keeps at the forefront that clients are generally not attorneys and that all the not knowing through the legal process is really hard on them. Because the estate had so many moving parts, and I subsequently had a lot of questions, I got to find out how many ways Tony aims at efficiency AND keeping clients informed.
One set of attorneys was particularly awful, and I’m grateful Tony took the brunt of that so that part could get wrapped up sooner than it would have otherwise. The other two were more on the “average” side, but getting information from them was so difficult at times. The one I had the longest working relationship with also does family law, which makes me all the more emphatic in my recommendation of Tony.
He will actually listen to you. He handles the majority of his correspondence and will get back to you in a *very* timely matter, even with a busy caseload. His office staff are absolutely stellar. He really knows the law. (After my first call for the family law matter, as well as what turned into the estate, he quickly ascertained [with little information from me] what was going on and what was likely coming and gave me a spot on summary BOTH times.) Both cases had a moment of needing a strategic move, and what he arrived at was utterly brilliant, both times. He gives excellent counsel. I’ve never felt like I was just another day at the office/paycheck to him. That’s hard to do in any line of work, but especially in one that has so much routine in the day-to-day coupled with clients who are probably having a lot of rough days in a row. His billing is extremely fair, especially given he will not be wasting his time or yours and he will spare you SO MANY headaches because of how he keeps you informed and handles things as a whole. Tony somehow manages to move towards an efficient and fair resolution without getting mired in all the dramatic back and forth it’s easy to get into in a family law situation while still treating you like a person. And he does it all with the utmost integrity. He is the only attorney I’ve worked with that I would hire again (and with a swiftness). What an absolute godsend he’s been!
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18 Sep, 2023 by Corrie potter
05 Dec, 2024 by Maranda rogers
I was unable to hire this law firm due to a conflict of interest. He has been extremely helpful and has been the only firm to point me in the right direction and I could tell he is very knowledgeable and cares! I appreciate the help he was able to lend!
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22 Nov, 2024 by Jim white
13 Nov, 2024 by Dakota hegi
We had the pleasure of working with January Bailey and her team during a challenging financial time, and I cannot recommend their services highly enough. From the very first consultation, they were compassionate, professional, and highly knowledgeable about the bankruptcy process. January took the time to explain all my options in detail, ensuring I understood the implications of each decision, as well as possibilities and alternatives.
Throughout the entire process, her team was responsive and proactive, guiding me step-by-step and keeping me informed every step of the way. They were always available to answer questions and made me feel at ease with their expertise. Thanks to January, I was able to navigate the bankruptcy process with minimal stress and a clear path forward making a very difficult decision more at ease for my family.
If you’re facing financial difficulties and need expert guidance, I highly recommend January or the team at Prelle Eron & Bailey. They genuinely care about their clients and work hard to achieve the best possible outcomes!!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Maranda rogers
I was unable to hire this law firm due to a conflict of interest. He has been extremely helpful and has been the only firm to point me in the right direction and I could tell he is very knowledgeable and cares! I appreciate the help he was able to lend!
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Jim white
13 Nov, 2024 by Dakota hegi
We had the pleasure of working with January Bailey and her team during a challenging financial time, and I cannot recommend their services highly enough. From the very first consultation, they were compassionate, professional, and highly knowledgeable about the bankruptcy process. January took the time to explain all my options in detail, ensuring I understood the implications of each decision, as well as possibilities and alternatives.
Throughout the entire process, her team was responsive and proactive, guiding me step-by-step and keeping me informed every step of the way. They were always available to answer questions and made me feel at ease with their expertise. Thanks to January, I was able to navigate the bankruptcy process with minimal stress and a clear path forward making a very difficult decision more at ease for my family.
If you’re facing financial difficulties and need expert guidance, I highly recommend January or the team at Prelle Eron & Bailey. They genuinely care about their clients and work hard to achieve the best possible outcomes!!
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Mark
My wife decided to divorce me after 35 years of marriage. I was very concerned about what this would do to my financial future, and especially being late in my career, my future retirement. I had heard many horror stories about how the laws in Kansas favor the female in a divorce. Only having very limited experience with lawyers, I decided to treat my lawyer selection like an interview process. I scheduled meetings with 2 lawyers to get started. Prior to my meeting with the lawyers, I reviewed all of my divorce papers in great detail. I identified several significant concerns with the terms that my ex’s legal counsel created. My first lawyer meeting was with Desiree Smith.
When I met with Desiree, my first question was about how she was going to represent me. Was I just a lost cause, because I was a male, or was she going to fight for everything she could get for me to protect my future retirement? She reassured me that she was working for me, and she would be doing everything she could for me. She asked me several general questions to understand our financial situation, and then laid out the typical scenarios that could happen in my situation. That immediately set me at ease, knowing that my financial future was not ruined, and that I had a path forward. She then reviewed the terms in the divorce papers. Within only 3-4 minutes of review, and without my assistance, she identified every concern I had about their terms, and a couple more that I hadn’t noticed. At that point, I knew I had found the right person to represent me, and I didn't need to meet with the next lawyer.
Throughout the rest of the divorce process, Desiree’s experience and knowledge showed in every conversation we had. She could quickly discuss detail, easily recall detail from previous meetings, easily answer questions, and was able to help me think through strategies for moving forward. Every meeting I had with her was very productive.
In the end, Desiree helped get a great settlement for me, and we did it without going to court. I got a far better settlement than I ever thought possible in the beginning, and I feel like I probably got a better settlement that most divorced men. Desiree was a very big part of making that happen. I can’t say enough about her knowledge, and how she could explain legal concepts in ways easy for me to understand. Desiree was very easy to work with. I would highly recommend Desiree to help anyone through their family legal needs!
Read more
05 May, 2024 by Eva glover
27 Apr, 2024 by Nathan dawson
16 Aug, 2024 by Mark
My wife decided to divorce me after 35 years of marriage. I was very concerned about what this would do to my financial future, and especially being late in my career, my future retirement. I had heard many horror stories about how the laws in Kansas favor the female in a divorce. Only having very limited experience with lawyers, I decided to treat my lawyer selection like an interview process. I scheduled meetings with 2 lawyers to get started. Prior to my meeting with the lawyers, I reviewed all of my divorce papers in great detail. I identified several significant concerns with the terms that my ex’s legal counsel created. My first lawyer meeting was with Desiree Smith.
When I met with Desiree, my first question was about how she was going to represent me. Was I just a lost cause, because I was a male, or was she going to fight for everything she could get for me to protect my future retirement? She reassured me that she was working for me, and she would be doing everything she could for me. She asked me several general questions to understand our financial situation, and then laid out the typical scenarios that could happen in my situation. That immediately set me at ease, knowing that my financial future was not ruined, and that I had a path forward. She then reviewed the terms in the divorce papers. Within only 3-4 minutes of review, and without my assistance, she identified every concern I had about their terms, and a couple more that I hadn’t noticed. At that point, I knew I had found the right person to represent me, and I didn't need to meet with the next lawyer.
Throughout the rest of the divorce process, Desiree’s experience and knowledge showed in every conversation we had. She could quickly discuss detail, easily recall detail from previous meetings, easily answer questions, and was able to help me think through strategies for moving forward. Every meeting I had with her was very productive.
In the end, Desiree helped get a great settlement for me, and we did it without going to court. I got a far better settlement than I ever thought possible in the beginning, and I feel like I probably got a better settlement that most divorced men. Desiree was a very big part of making that happen. I can’t say enough about her knowledge, and how she could explain legal concepts in ways easy for me to understand. Desiree was very easy to work with. I would highly recommend Desiree to help anyone through their family legal needs!
Read more
05 May, 2024 by Eva glover
27 Apr, 2024 by Nathan dawson
06 May, 2024 by Alex smith
Terrible experience, Monica will not fight for you. She won't even meet you in person. She will settle without a fight. What a waste of money and a total disappointment. I hate giving bad reviews but this place is a joke. Don't settle for less.
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07 Jun, 2023 by David halderman
Face it...it this day and age, divorce is prevalent. I highly recamend you find a work around. Given the fact that this is not always a answer......I strongly suggest you employ Monica . I found this process in its self....painless to accept with her as your attorney. I strongly suggest you get your paperwork together and if and when she asks for a document...you take two her straight away. She is in the middle of your case and NEEDS it..now. ....not when you get around to it. Drive it to her office
You can not get better representation in my book. I would use her again. However....Im not going to be in the position to be divorced again....ever. Cost between attorneys must be compatible......personal service is the only thing that makes one different from the other.......go with Monica.
Some have a happy ending and new beginning....let her start yours as she did mine
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06 Jun, 2023 by Nick raffety
Unless you are okay with seeing your children every other weekend and paying so much in child support you won't be able to afford anything else, find another lawyer. I hired her about 8 years ago and was almost raked over the coals. I left bad reviews at that time also that are somehow not viewable now. I wasn't even able to find her on my court date and was lucky enough to come to an agreement with my ex and her lawyer that didn't destroy me. I was also denied money back after the whole ordeal. Very bad experience for a newly single father.
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13 Dec, 2024 by John holmes
This man is a loser as I told him when I walked out and had to hire someone else. Unanswered emails, phone calls, then had to stop by his office daily until I found him there without a locked door and lights out during normal business hours. He cost me 9 months of my life and thousands of dollars. He offered a refund due to his mistakes
and then renigged when I hired other council. Beware!!!
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23 Nov, 2024 by Zaylee green (zgreen)
Very professional and informed me of what was needed and when, always got answers back in a timely manner. If ever I need legal services again, this will be my first stop.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Chris major
Very experienced and knowledgeable. Made handling my case easy and straightforward. Definitely would recommend to anyone dealing with debt issues!
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05 Dec, 2024 by Maranda rogers
I was unable to hire this law firm due to a conflict of interest. He has been extremely helpful and has been the only firm to point me in the right direction and I could tell he is very knowledgeable and cares! I appreciate the help he was able to lend!
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Jim white
13 Nov, 2024 by Dakota hegi
We had the pleasure of working with January Bailey and her team during a challenging financial time, and I cannot recommend their services highly enough. From the very first consultation, they were compassionate, professional, and highly knowledgeable about the bankruptcy process. January took the time to explain all my options in detail, ensuring I understood the implications of each decision, as well as possibilities and alternatives.
Throughout the entire process, her team was responsive and proactive, guiding me step-by-step and keeping me informed every step of the way. They were always available to answer questions and made me feel at ease with their expertise. Thanks to January, I was able to navigate the bankruptcy process with minimal stress and a clear path forward making a very difficult decision more at ease for my family.
If you’re facing financial difficulties and need expert guidance, I highly recommend January or the team at Prelle Eron & Bailey. They genuinely care about their clients and work hard to achieve the best possible outcomes!!
Read more
21 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
If you want to lose a case then hire her . You gives about 10 percent to case. Don’t waste your money
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Child Custody Lawyer Can Do for You
A child custody lawyer specializes in helping parents navigate legal matters related to the custody and care of their children, particularly in the context of divorce, separation, or other family disputes. These lawyers assist with determining custody arrangements, drafting parenting plans, and advocating for your rights in court. They also help resolve disputes over physical custody (where the child lives), legal custody (who makes decisions for the child), visitation rights, and modifications to existing custody orders.
Whether you're going through a divorce or need to change an existing custody arrangement, a child custody lawyer can help you understand your rights and protect your child's best interests throughout the legal process.
When Should I Hire a Child Custody Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child custody lawyer in several situations, especially when disputes arise or complex legal issues affect your parental rights. Some common reasons to hire a child custody lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: If you're going through a divorce or separation and need to establish custody and visitation arrangements, a lawyer can help ensure the custody order reflects your child's best interests.
- Disputed custody cases: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody or visitation terms, a lawyer can advocate for your rights in court and help you develop a strong case.
- Modification of custody orders: If you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to changes in circumstances (e.g., relocation, changes in the child’s needs), a lawyer can help file a modification request.
- Parental alienation: If the other parent is interfering with your relationship with your child, a lawyer can help address these issues through legal action.
- Domestic violence or abuse: If there is a history of domestic violence or abuse, a lawyer can help protect you and your child by requesting restraining orders and advocating for appropriate custody arrangements.
- Grandparent or third-party custody: If you are a grandparent or another relative seeking custody or visitation rights, a lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
- Paternity disputes: In cases where paternity is in question, a lawyer can assist with establishing or challenging paternity, which may affect custody and visitation rights.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help protect your parental rights and ensure that the custody arrangement is in your child's best interests.
What Does a Child Custody Lawyer Do?
A child custody lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents resolve custody disputes and secure favorable custody arrangements for their children. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing custody petitions: Helping you file the necessary paperwork to request custody or visitation rights and ensuring all legal procedures are followed.
- Negotiating custody agreements: Assisting in negotiating custody and visitation arrangements, often working toward a mutually beneficial parenting plan without going to court.
- Representing you in court: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody terms, representing you in court by presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Drafting parenting plans: Helping you draft a comprehensive parenting plan that outlines the schedule for physical custody, decision-making responsibilities, and visitation.
- Handling child support issues: Assisting with related issues such as child support, ensuring that financial obligations are properly calculated and enforced.
- Modifying custody orders: Helping you request a modification from the court if you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to significant life changes.
- Mediating custody disputes: Acting as a mediator to help both parents reach an agreement on custody and visitation without the need for litigation.
How Are Child Custody Lawyers Paid?
Child custody lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case, the time involved, and the nature of the legal work. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child custody lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer's experience and location. The total cost depends on the time spent preparing documents, negotiating, and representing you in court.
- Flat fee: For simple custody matters or uncontested custody agreements, some lawyers may offer a flat fee for specific services, such as drafting a parenting plan or filing a custody petition.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount varies based on the expected complexity and duration of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers may offer reduced fees or pro bono (free) services for clients with limited financial means, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or other serious issues.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are included.
How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child custody lawyer depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case, whether it’s contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested custody cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and any negotiations.
- Contested custody cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the issues, the need for expert testimony, and the time spent in litigation.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or complex custody disputes.
- Mediation services: If both parents agree to work through mediation, costs typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for the mediation process.
Always ask for a clear cost estimate during your consultation to ensure that you understand the total legal fees and payment structure.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Custody Lawyer
Before hiring a child custody lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Some key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with child custody cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, especially if your case involves complex issues like domestic violence, relocation, or paternity disputes. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees for certain services, or requires a retainer, and ask for an estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Inquire about the expected timeline from filing the petition to reaching an agreement or going to trial. -
Will you personally handle my case?
Ensure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
Can we pursue mediation or alternative dispute resolution?
Ask whether the lawyer recommends mediation or other forms of dispute resolution to avoid a lengthy court battle.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Custody Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child custody lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and child custody cases.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge the lawyer’s professionalism and success in child custody matters.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on custody cases.
- Check for certifications: Look for lawyers who are board-certified in family law or have memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) or local family law sections.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a child custody lawyer, come prepared with relevant documents and information:
- Court orders or existing custody agreements: Bring copies of any existing custody or visitation orders for the lawyer to review.
- Communication with the other parent: Provide copies of emails, texts, or letters regarding custody, visitation, or disputes.
- List of your child’s needs: Prepare a list of your child’s specific needs, such as medical care, education, and extracurricular activities.
- Timeline of the case: Outline key events related to your custody case, including changes in living situations or parental involvement.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the custody process, legal fees, and the lawyer’s strategy for your case.
By being well-prepared, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible advice for protecting your rights and your child’s well-being.
