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31 Mar, 2022 by 1 move
I really appreciate my Attorney Dave Anton expertise. He’s one first class attorney. He told me not to worry, let him handle my case. What a fantastic job…..I would recommend his law firm to anyone needing help. He’s worth every penny….period. Thanks for saving my future Sir…..Mr McClendon
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15 Nov, 2019 by Diane
Very impressed with Tamar, her knowledge about different aspects of modification of child support and alimony. She gave me straightforward and honest information to make an informed decision on how to proceed with modification of child support and weighing the possible outcome vs attorney fees. Her priority is what is in the best interest of the client.
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19 Apr, 2019 by Mindy
Tamar is amazing. She is passionate in helping people, and in fighting for justice and what is right. Tamar has a level of compassion that I have rarely seen in lawyers. Once she took over my case that was drug out almost 3 years, she was able to wrap it up quickly. I will forever be grateful for her, and I will always recommend her to other future clients.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Malanda kashani
Mr. Johnson and his staff were so friendly and welcoming. When I had questions regarding my accident, they answered them in a timely manner. I would highly recommend this office for your personal injury needs.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Maria sanchez
Love the staff very welcoming and always on top of things
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21 Nov, 2024 by Aaron cadiz
Attended the SFST student course facilitated by Anthony Palacios and his team-- It is ESSENTIAL that you take this course if you are an attorney specializing in DUI litigation.
I can confidently walk into any courtroom and approach any DUI-related police investigation and feel that I am providing the most competent and effective advocacy and representation for my client armed with the knowledge I picked up from this course.
Thank you to Anthony and team for a fantastic weekend. Would definitely recommend, 5/5 stars
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26 Nov, 2024 by Jill hurst
18 Nov, 2024 by Crispin tejeda melendez
13 Nov, 2024 by Jenelle stoner
I cannot give enough accolades to Attorney Ryan Mullins and all of the team that I worked with at Vayman & Teitelbaum. I do not live in Georgia, Montana to be exact, and had to immediately find an attorney in Georgia to handle a custody matter. Finding a new attorney on a very short time frame was very nerve racking for me. After reading reviews on line - I consulted with numerous attorneys - and ultimately went with Ryan Mullins. She was so wonderful to work with. Listened openly and attentively to my concerns and thoughts, provided me with great professional suggestions and opinions, and overall just made what could have been a very unpleasant custody situation "easy" for me. Furthermore, her and her team were efficient in handling matters and responding. There is no way I could begin to express how much I recommend Ryan Mullins and her team. I wish I could give 100 stars!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Jill hurst
18 Nov, 2024 by Crispin tejeda melendez
13 Nov, 2024 by Jenelle stoner
I cannot give enough accolades to Attorney Ryan Mullins and all of the team that I worked with at Vayman & Teitelbaum. I do not live in Georgia, Montana to be exact, and had to immediately find an attorney in Georgia to handle a custody matter. Finding a new attorney on a very short time frame was very nerve racking for me. After reading reviews on line - I consulted with numerous attorneys - and ultimately went with Ryan Mullins. She was so wonderful to work with. Listened openly and attentively to my concerns and thoughts, provided me with great professional suggestions and opinions, and overall just made what could have been a very unpleasant custody situation "easy" for me. Furthermore, her and her team were efficient in handling matters and responding. There is no way I could begin to express how much I recommend Ryan Mullins and her team. I wish I could give 100 stars!
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07 Nov, 2023 by Kennedy
Ed Hecht is by far the most passionate person I have ever met. He is very smart and knows his clients needs thoroughly. He will fight for you at your weakest moments. He is a unicorn of attorneys in this area. Do NOT go to others until you speak with him first. I’m not just saying that- I’ve been to a few firms that will take your $ and not speak with you. Ed and Bryson will make the process EASY so you don’t have to update handwritten forms like the other attorneys in the area. These individuals wear a vest of empathy but they are bulldogs at the end of the day for you to get what you deserve!!!!!!!!
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17 Mar, 2023 by Jacob
I was in the process of negotiating an uncontested divorce (outside of court) with my ex-spouse, when I was surprised by a court summons I received in the mail. My ex and her attorney filed a contested divorce case in the middle of negotiated an uncontested settlement! The attorney that was helping me prepare the uncontested divorce documents referred me to a list of trial attorneys, including Ed and team.
I happened to interviewed two other trail attorneys first, but I decided to go with Ed after our first conversation. Ed really understood my situation. Not only is he an experienced divorce attorney, but he also went through a difficult divorce himself. He helped me to put my situation into perspective and helped me to focus on the most important aspect, which was my children.
I worked with Ed and Bryson for 15 months. There were lots of court delays due to COVID in addition to my ex and I not coming to terms quickly. During the intake meeting (our first meeting to discuss the case), Bryson walked me through what the divorce process would most likely look like. He explained all of the steps we will go through and all of the opportunities to come to a settlement before we actually go to trial. He explained why people go through each step and what is most likely to happen for me based on my situation. Looking back, we ended up going through that exact process he laid out; and settling 2 weeks before the court date which he expected based on how far apart my ex and I were. We attended Zoom court hearings, in person mediation, and late case evaluation; in addition to many phone calls discussing all the complex aspects of my case.
One of the first accomplishments we had was establishing a temporary custody schedule with my kids. This is something that would never have happened without Ed and Bryson's help. I was having difficulty getting any type of regular schedule established with my ex. They were able to get my ex to agree to a fair schedule, which included half of the Christmas break just a few weeks before Christmas break. This is even prior to the first 30 day status conference with the judge. Over the course of the 15 months of negotiation, we were able to establish that I would have my kids 5 days out of every 14 days. This was after starting with only having them every other Friday afternoon to Sunday afternoon.
Bryson was great to work with. He is an experienced and knowledgable attorney; and he had longstanding relationships with many mediators, judges and other people involved in the Fulton County family court system. He was able to anticipate many people's perspectives, which went a long way with negotations. He is also an expert in family law with many years of experience. I recall one impressive moment during our late case evaluation. The late case evaluator was a former judge who is obviously an expert in family law himself. Bryson and the Judge were discussing some esoteric detqils of child support calculations as part of negotiating our position, when the former judge replied "Oh really? I didn't know that." Bryson referenced where the detail was explained and the former judge said "Wow, I've been doing this for 30 years and I never knew that. I still learn something new everyday."
The settlement agreement turned out to be extremely valuable. I have already cut and pasted from it numerous time in communications with my ex, when she decides rules don't apply to her. It has ended a few arguments before they even started. Even post divorce, Ed's advice is valuable and has helped me avoid problems as well as giving me a better understanding of legal options when my ex isn't following our settlement agreement.
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17 Sep, 2022 by Tonya
I went to Hecht Family Law for a Child Support dispute. Attorney Hecht and his team were proactive, attentive and professional. I highly recommend them!
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03 Sep, 2021 by Tom
Marcy and her team were very helpful and professional in handling my divorce. They were easy to work with and very timely in their responses.
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31 Aug, 2021 by Melanie
The Millard Law firm helped me settle my divorce to my satisfaction providing professional services and prompt communication. I would highly recommend them.
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12 Feb, 2020 by Briana
Marcy Millard is an absolute hero. Her team is kind, compassionate, and crazy efficient. Johana is a no nonsense power house with a heart of gold. When I was scared and felt like I had no voice, Marcy spoke up for me. She was my guiding light in a very dark time. Her dedication to helping others is amazing. She is selfless, bold, and knows how to get things done. She is a pillar of strength to those who need it. She is incredibly fierce when approaching situations but keeps such a comforting calm when speaking with clients. Marcy and her team blow me away and my daughter and I are eternally grateful to them. Without her, we wouldn’t be together and thriving after the storm. At no point during all of this have I felt alone or without hope. I can’t emphasize enough how important that is during a time like this. If you need a hero, if you need someone to fight for you, if you need a light in the dark...please, contact them.
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19 Jun, 2023 by Jessica
Alan Meincke was an excellent divorce lawyer. He attended to all of my needs in a thorough and timely manner. He is a very caring lawyer, listened to all of my concerns and answered all of my calls/emails quickly. I'm very grateful for how he advocated for me while going through such a difficult season.
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03 Jan, 2023 by John fox
I had a highly contentious and complicated child custody case which Alan came in and straightened all out. I honestly feel like he saved my life in so many ways. He’s a brilliant attoney, hard working, very responsive, level headed and very honest. I highly recommend Alan to anyone and I personally will be a client for life and I mean that with the utmost sincerity.
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29 Dec, 2018 by Phillip
Thank you Mr. Meincke for everything you did for our family! Everything worked out perfect and Alan actually fought for us and everything we wanted unlike other lawyers that we wasted money on!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Jill hurst
18 Nov, 2024 by Crispin tejeda melendez
13 Nov, 2024 by Jenelle stoner
I cannot give enough accolades to Attorney Ryan Mullins and all of the team that I worked with at Vayman & Teitelbaum. I do not live in Georgia, Montana to be exact, and had to immediately find an attorney in Georgia to handle a custody matter. Finding a new attorney on a very short time frame was very nerve racking for me. After reading reviews on line - I consulted with numerous attorneys - and ultimately went with Ryan Mullins. She was so wonderful to work with. Listened openly and attentively to my concerns and thoughts, provided me with great professional suggestions and opinions, and overall just made what could have been a very unpleasant custody situation "easy" for me. Furthermore, her and her team were efficient in handling matters and responding. There is no way I could begin to express how much I recommend Ryan Mullins and her team. I wish I could give 100 stars!
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20 Dec, 2024 by Deniece toth- atlanta
Shawna Woods and Atlanta Divorce Law Group are simply the best of the best! They handled my divorce and I know I was represented in the absolute best way possible. They take an emotionally charged situation and take the emotion out of it, which I so appreciated. If you find yourself needing a divorce attorney- call ADLG. You won’t regret it!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Eileen dawson
Ashleigh Rambo was really wonderful to work with for our prenup. She took the time to fully understand what each of us was interested in achieving from the agreement and explained very clearly and concisely how best to move forward. She made what could have been an uncomfortable situation really easy to manage. I highly recommend working with her!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Susannah virkler
22 Jun, 2021 by Brendon
Ryan is one of the best lawyers I have ever worked with and I have worked with several lawyers in the past. She cares about her clients and their families. She was able to out smart my ex and her lawyer to prove my case was legitimate. If you want a lawyer in your corner, Ryan is your lawyer!
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07 May, 2020 by Braeden
I went into this process knowing nothing and feeling like i wasn’t going to get the end result i needed and i didn’t know what to expect. I was blessed to have Ryan on my side throughout all of this! She made the already hard process painless and explained everything i asked in common terms so i could understand! Ryan went above and beyond my expectations and made sure i was aware of everything that was happening. She always consulted me if she had a question about what i meant and she was always there for me when i needed to ask something! I can assure you that if you’re looking for a trustworthy lawyer that will put your needs first there is no one better than Ryan!
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13 Jan, 2019 by Greg
Quick to respond to all questions/emails. Case was handled quickly and efficiently. I will definitely go back should I need further assistance.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Jill hurst
18 Nov, 2024 by Crispin tejeda melendez
13 Nov, 2024 by Jenelle stoner
I cannot give enough accolades to Attorney Ryan Mullins and all of the team that I worked with at Vayman & Teitelbaum. I do not live in Georgia, Montana to be exact, and had to immediately find an attorney in Georgia to handle a custody matter. Finding a new attorney on a very short time frame was very nerve racking for me. After reading reviews on line - I consulted with numerous attorneys - and ultimately went with Ryan Mullins. She was so wonderful to work with. Listened openly and attentively to my concerns and thoughts, provided me with great professional suggestions and opinions, and overall just made what could have been a very unpleasant custody situation "easy" for me. Furthermore, her and her team were efficient in handling matters and responding. There is no way I could begin to express how much I recommend Ryan Mullins and her team. I wish I could give 100 stars!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Amanda greene
I hired this law firm about 3 weeks ago. My lawyer was Ebony. I asked a few questions about my divorce and couldn’t understand George law never was the law explained to me. I paid my retainer fee. Then they started asking me if I wanted to go to trial, but wouldn’t explain why would you go to trial in a divorce? We only have one item a car to get worked out then wanted me to pay 12,500$ then wanted me to pay $2500 for an emergency hearing for my car. After asking questions one of the partners called me and told me….. they could not handle my case after reviewing emails between me and Ebony …… you need to be knowledgeable in your case ….. remember you are paying them…. Make your own decision to use them or not….. oh and lost my money …. This law firm Would not return my funds …… not great business…..
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11 Sep, 2024 by Chelsea ahalt
22 Jul, 2024 by The food blogger
BEWARE PLEASE READ 🚨 🚨 🚨 🚨
THIS LAW FIRM WILL RUN UP A MASSIVE BILL WITHOUT ACTUALLY PERFORMING ANY WORK WITH THE COURTS. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!!! MY ATTORNEY WAS LAUREN!
THIS LAW FIRM WILL CHARGE YOU FOR EVERYTHING AND EVERY FORM OF COMMUNICATION. YOU CAN NOT EVEN EMAIL YOUR ATTORNEY WITHOUT BEING CHARGE FOR EVERY TIME SHE RESPONDS. YOU CAN NOT CALL YOUR ATTORNEY WITHOUT BEING CHARGED FOR EVERY CALL.
I RECIEVED COUNTLESS REPEATED EMAILS ASKING THE SAME QUESTIONS OVER AMD OVER FROM LAUREN ONLY TO BE CHARGED ALMOST 900.00 JUST FOR EMAILS. EVERY FORM OF COMMUNICATION YOUR ATTORNEY HAS WITH ANYONE FOR YOUR CASE YOU WILL BE CHARGED. I ASKED FOR A SIMPLE DOCUMENT TO BE CREATED TO FILE AND WAS CHARGED 7,000.00 ONLY FOR THE DOCUMENT NEVER TO BE FILED WITH THE COURTS. I WAS THEN TOLD AFTER PAYING A 2500.00 RETAINER THAT I NEEDED TO PAY AN ADDITIONAL 4,000.00 FOR THE DOCUMENT TO BE CREATED THEN ANOTHER 2,000.00 TO FILE THE DOCUMENT IN COURT. I SPOKE TO 2 OTHER LAW FIRMS WHO ADVISED ME THAT I WAS BEING RIPPED OFF BY THIS LAW FIRM. THEY WERE SHOCKED WHEN I TOLD THEM THIS LAW FIRM IS REQUESTING AN ADDITIONAL 4,000.00 FROM.ME.AND NO PAPERS HAVE BEEN FILED IN COURT.
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Eric
Absolutely terrible. They missed a very important filing deadline despite me reminding them numerous times which caused the dismissal of my petition. They would have missed another filing deadline except I had already drafted the pleading myself and pushed them to get it filed through their insistence that it wasn’t necessary that day. They even had the audacity to say they had “other cases to work on” when I was trying to get them to file the document I had drafted myself weeks earlier, on the day of the deadline.
During a hearing, they did not rebut a good portion of the arguments the petitioner had made in the hearing causing me to have no defense on record for those items.
After I couldn’t get Andee to talk to me, I sent an email voicing my need for them to be better advocates for me as their client. Instead of listening to the issues I had with my representation and working on a solution, I got their filed motion to withdraw.
So unless you are okay with an attorney who doesn’t file things on time and who doesn’t represent you well in court, I would not recommend hiring them.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
To use the justice Court system in any fashion or any level is a disgrace we cannot let Donald Trump's inner circle take over our democracy so I hope this will be a lesson she will be going to prison as well now with her client
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30 Nov, 2018 by Abby
My case was extraordinarily difficult. It was a terrible divorce, and a horrible custody battle. Originally I thought I was going to represent myself in order to save money. That would have been an huge mistake. Andee was amazing. These women not only kept me sane, but also helped me keep primary custody of my children. Were it not for Andee's expert counsel, I know I would have made errors that would have cost me custody of my children. I know she had other cases and clients, but her and her team always made me feel like my case was important. Andee Hastings is my hero. I want my daughter to be just like her when she grows up. Her and her entire team protected me at every turn and helped my understand every step of the process. I can't recommend Andee and this law firm enough.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Mike st. amand
Experience was superior from beginning to end with Debra. She listened, understood and explained all the issues. Shared in my room the other side's greatest strengths and risks that we faced. Great rapport with my client. Closed the deal in the end which is what we all needed. Outstanding.
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11 Aug, 2023 by Marquita davis
Everything was fine until I felt like Debra didn’t have anything positive for my side of the fence as for as the case go. I think she was all for the insurance side. It was bad all around for me if I didn’t know any better. I would say it was four against one. She gave me lots of advice to just settle out. For the best interest of the defendant. the (insurance) company I didn’t feel like anyone was mediating on my behalf. I feel like the mediation was for the defense side only! Very unhappy!!! Unbalanced mediation.
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28 Mar, 2023 by Alana
I had the pleasure of working with Cameron E. Jackson recently, and I must say, it was an outstanding experience. Cameron is an incredibly knowledgeable attorney who is passionate about providing excellent legal services to his clients.
Throughout the entire process, Cameron was always available to answer any questions I had and provided guidance every step of the way. He listened intently to my concerns, and his thoroughness and attention to detail gave me the confidence I needed to trust in his ability to handle my case.
Cameron's professionalism, expertise, and dedication to his clients are second to none. His communication skills are exceptional, and he always kept me informed throughout the process, ensuring that I knew what was happening every step of the way.
I would highly recommend Cameron E. Jackson and the Jackson Law Group to anyone seeking exceptional legal representation. Cameron's knowledge, experience, and dedication to his clients are truly outstanding, and I am grateful for his excellent work. Thank you, Cameron, for all that you do!
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.1
87 Reviews
20 Nov, 2024 by Amanda greene
I hired this law firm about 3 weeks ago. My lawyer was Ebony. I asked a few questions about my divorce and couldn’t understand George law never was the law explained to me. I paid my retainer fee. Then they started asking me if I wanted to go to trial, but wouldn’t explain why would you go to trial in a divorce? We only have one item a car to get worked out then wanted me to pay 12,500$ then wanted me to pay $2500 for an emergency hearing for my car. After asking questions one of the partners called me and told me….. they could not handle my case after reviewing emails between me and Ebony …… you need to be knowledgeable in your case ….. remember you are paying them…. Make your own decision to use them or not….. oh and lost my money …. This law firm Would not return my funds …… not great business…..
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11 Sep, 2024 by Chelsea ahalt
22 Jul, 2024 by The food blogger
BEWARE PLEASE READ 🚨 🚨 🚨 🚨
THIS LAW FIRM WILL RUN UP A MASSIVE BILL WITHOUT ACTUALLY PERFORMING ANY WORK WITH THE COURTS. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!!! MY ATTORNEY WAS LAUREN!
THIS LAW FIRM WILL CHARGE YOU FOR EVERYTHING AND EVERY FORM OF COMMUNICATION. YOU CAN NOT EVEN EMAIL YOUR ATTORNEY WITHOUT BEING CHARGE FOR EVERY TIME SHE RESPONDS. YOU CAN NOT CALL YOUR ATTORNEY WITHOUT BEING CHARGED FOR EVERY CALL.
I RECIEVED COUNTLESS REPEATED EMAILS ASKING THE SAME QUESTIONS OVER AMD OVER FROM LAUREN ONLY TO BE CHARGED ALMOST 900.00 JUST FOR EMAILS. EVERY FORM OF COMMUNICATION YOUR ATTORNEY HAS WITH ANYONE FOR YOUR CASE YOU WILL BE CHARGED. I ASKED FOR A SIMPLE DOCUMENT TO BE CREATED TO FILE AND WAS CHARGED 7,000.00 ONLY FOR THE DOCUMENT NEVER TO BE FILED WITH THE COURTS. I WAS THEN TOLD AFTER PAYING A 2500.00 RETAINER THAT I NEEDED TO PAY AN ADDITIONAL 4,000.00 FOR THE DOCUMENT TO BE CREATED THEN ANOTHER 2,000.00 TO FILE THE DOCUMENT IN COURT. I SPOKE TO 2 OTHER LAW FIRMS WHO ADVISED ME THAT I WAS BEING RIPPED OFF BY THIS LAW FIRM. THEY WERE SHOCKED WHEN I TOLD THEM THIS LAW FIRM IS REQUESTING AN ADDITIONAL 4,000.00 FROM.ME.AND NO PAPERS HAVE BEEN FILED IN COURT.
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
Read more
20 Nov, 2024 by Amanda greene
I hired this law firm about 3 weeks ago. My lawyer was Ebony. I asked a few questions about my divorce and couldn’t understand George law never was the law explained to me. I paid my retainer fee. Then they started asking me if I wanted to go to trial, but wouldn’t explain why would you go to trial in a divorce? We only have one item a car to get worked out then wanted me to pay 12,500$ then wanted me to pay $2500 for an emergency hearing for my car. After asking questions one of the partners called me and told me….. they could not handle my case after reviewing emails between me and Ebony …… you need to be knowledgeable in your case ….. remember you are paying them…. Make your own decision to use them or not….. oh and lost my money …. This law firm Would not return my funds …… not great business…..
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Chelsea ahalt
22 Jul, 2024 by The food blogger
BEWARE PLEASE READ 🚨 🚨 🚨 🚨
THIS LAW FIRM WILL RUN UP A MASSIVE BILL WITHOUT ACTUALLY PERFORMING ANY WORK WITH THE COURTS. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!!! MY ATTORNEY WAS LAUREN!
THIS LAW FIRM WILL CHARGE YOU FOR EVERYTHING AND EVERY FORM OF COMMUNICATION. YOU CAN NOT EVEN EMAIL YOUR ATTORNEY WITHOUT BEING CHARGE FOR EVERY TIME SHE RESPONDS. YOU CAN NOT CALL YOUR ATTORNEY WITHOUT BEING CHARGED FOR EVERY CALL.
I RECIEVED COUNTLESS REPEATED EMAILS ASKING THE SAME QUESTIONS OVER AMD OVER FROM LAUREN ONLY TO BE CHARGED ALMOST 900.00 JUST FOR EMAILS. EVERY FORM OF COMMUNICATION YOUR ATTORNEY HAS WITH ANYONE FOR YOUR CASE YOU WILL BE CHARGED. I ASKED FOR A SIMPLE DOCUMENT TO BE CREATED TO FILE AND WAS CHARGED 7,000.00 ONLY FOR THE DOCUMENT NEVER TO BE FILED WITH THE COURTS. I WAS THEN TOLD AFTER PAYING A 2500.00 RETAINER THAT I NEEDED TO PAY AN ADDITIONAL 4,000.00 FOR THE DOCUMENT TO BE CREATED THEN ANOTHER 2,000.00 TO FILE THE DOCUMENT IN COURT. I SPOKE TO 2 OTHER LAW FIRMS WHO ADVISED ME THAT I WAS BEING RIPPED OFF BY THIS LAW FIRM. THEY WERE SHOCKED WHEN I TOLD THEM THIS LAW FIRM IS REQUESTING AN ADDITIONAL 4,000.00 FROM.ME.AND NO PAPERS HAVE BEEN FILED IN COURT.
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
Read more
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Child Support Lawyer Can Do for You
A child support lawyer specializes in legal issues related to the financial support that one parent provides to another for the upbringing of their children. These lawyers assist with establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders, ensuring that the financial needs of the child are met, including housing, food, healthcare, education, and other essentials. A child support lawyer can also represent parents in disputes over the amount of support, ensure fair calculations based on income, and handle legal proceedings if one parent fails to meet their obligations.
Whether you're seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or enforce payments, a child support lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights and the well-being of your child.
When Should I Hire a Child Support Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child support lawyer when you need assistance with any of the following child support matters:
- Establishing child support: If you are going through a divorce or separation and need to establish a child support order, a lawyer can help ensure that the support amount is fair and accurately calculated.
- Modifying child support orders: If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, income change, or a child's financial needs, a lawyer can help you request a modification to the existing child support order.
- Enforcing child support payments: If the other parent has failed to make court-ordered child support payments, a lawyer can help enforce the order through legal means such as wage garnishment, property liens, or even legal action.
- Disputing child support calculations: If you believe the child support amount has been incorrectly calculated based on your income or expenses, a lawyer can help you challenge the calculation and seek a fair adjustment.
- Paternity disputes: If paternity needs to be established before child support can be ordered, a lawyer can assist with DNA testing and legal proceedings.
- Interstate child support cases: If the parents live in different states, navigating child support laws can be complex. A lawyer can help ensure the proper jurisdiction is established and that child support is enforced across state lines.
- Child support during custody disputes: If child custody and child support are being determined simultaneously, a lawyer can help ensure that both issues are resolved fairly and in the best interest of the child.
Hiring a lawyer early can help ensure that your child support case is handled effectively and that your child's financial needs are met.
What Does a Child Support Lawyer Do?
A child support lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents secure, modify, and enforce child support arrangements. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing for child support: A lawyer can help you initiate the legal process to obtain a child support order, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and deadlines are met.
- Calculating child support: A lawyer can help ensure that child support is calculated fairly based on both parents' incomes, the needs of the child, and other factors such as healthcare and education costs.
- Negotiating child support agreements: If both parents are willing to negotiate, a lawyer can help facilitate an agreement on child support outside of court, which can then be approved by a judge.
- Representing you in court: If negotiations fail or the other parent contests the child support amount, a lawyer will represent you in family court, presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Modifying support orders: A lawyer can help you file a request for modification if circumstances change, such as a loss of income or an increase in the child’s financial needs.
- Enforcing child support: If the other parent is not making court-ordered payments, a lawyer can take legal steps to enforce the order through wage garnishment, property liens, or other measures.
- Handling complex cases: In cases involving high incomes, self-employment, or complicated financial situations, a lawyer can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered in determining child support.
How Are Child Support Lawyers Paid?
Child support lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work required. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child support 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 will depend on how much time the lawyer spends on your case, including preparation, negotiations, and court appearances.
- Flat fee: For more straightforward cases, such as uncontested child support agreements or basic modifications, some lawyers may offer a flat fee that covers all services related to the case.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount of the retainer depends on the expected complexity of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or provide pro bono (free) services in cases where clients cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially when children’s needs are at stake.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are covered.
How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child support lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it's contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested child support cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and the lawyer’s fees.
- Contested child support cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, especially if the case involves significant court time.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for child support cases, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases that involve complex financial issues.
- Modification or enforcement: Fees for modifying or enforcing a child support order may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity and the need for court intervention.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Support Lawyer
Before hiring a child support lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with child support cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support orders. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and any potential challenges you may face. -
How long will the process take?
Child support cases can take time, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors may cause delays. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
What documents should I prepare?
Ask the lawyer what financial documents and other information you should bring to help them calculate child support and build your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Support Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child support lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- 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 have successfully handled child support cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on child support matters.
- Check for certifications: Some lawyers may have certifications in family law or membership in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), which can indicate their expertise in child support and family law issues.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a child support lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Income documents: Bring pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or any other documentation of your income and the other parent’s income, as this will be used to calculate child support.
- Existing child support orders: If there are any existing child support or custody orders, bring copies for the lawyer to review.
- Child-related expenses: Provide documentation of your child’s medical bills, education expenses, daycare costs, and any other expenses that should be factored into the child support calculation.
- Communication with the other parent: Bring any communication between you and the other parent regarding child support, whether through emails, text messages, or written agreements.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions about your case, the legal process, and the lawyer’s fees.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
