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04 Apr, 2024 by Melanie lee
Katherine Reckman represented me in my divorce and she was very fair and steadfast through my proceedings. My ex husband chose very inept representative which derailed his case. In the end, he trusted Katherine to write up our agreement which he eventually signed. Divorce is ugly and stressful and in Colorado, you need someone who can negotiate with the other side to keep the cost down. Katherine did that and was able to do it with empathy. Highly recommended.
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23 Feb, 2024 by Kathy s
I found Terri when I was traumatized, alone and incredibly scared. She and her paralegal, Traci, held my hand through the process and helped me find a therapist, which ended up being a real life line for me. I'm a big believer now in the collaborative approach, and I ended up spending far less in litigation costs and got through the process quicker than anyone I know in similar circumstances. I can't tell you what a comfort it is to turn the intricacies of your life over to such a compassionate and competent, knowledgeable lawyer. It helped me keep my sanity and wits during the darkest time of my life. I'm on the other side now, and Terri and her firm played a big part in that.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Kathryn sturtevant
I highly recommend this firm, and Terri Harrington, specifically. This was the best decision I made during a very overwhelming divorce process. I hired Terri the week before my scheduled mediation, as the previous lawyer dropped the ball significantly and I had to fire him. Terri and her team were incredibly communicative (for example, I have never had to wait longer than 24 hours for a reply), empathetic, knowledgeable, and quick. Terri caught up on my case in just a few days, and she made me and my case a priority by responding to emails swiftly, walking me through the process and what to expect, and being clear on what was needed from me, and what their role was. I just recently referred Terri and team to another person, and would do it again and again.
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17 Jun, 2022 by Carol colliins
Livenick Law, LLC is a professional law firm that treats clients fairly, responds to your case quickly and efficiently. Torrey is especially helpful and goes that extra mile to help solve your legal issues. I would recommend Livenick Law, LLC. They provide excellent services.
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03 Jun, 2021 by Brittany hobbs
At first Torrey seemed like she was knowledgeable and great to work with. However shortly after she became very non-responsive and would blow off meetings after numerous, countless attempts. Please don’t waste your time and go with another practice.
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18 May, 2021 by Erin stereo
Torrey was incredibly knowledgeable and helped me find justice in two different, very difficult cases. Minor details, which could have easily been overlooked, were the ultimately the key to helping me win my cases and she was able to pick up on those small-print details in my documents and bring them to light in court.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Karina english-huerta
I hired Attorney Matt Patton in July of 2023 to help me with my divorce. From the very first moment I met Matt, he was not only professional and knowledgeable, but he made me feel supported, empowered, understood, and at ease. What should have taken a few months to process took over a year because of things outside both of our control. Matt was there for me every step of the way and felt my frustrations as his own. He did everything in his power to get this handled for me quickly and efficiently. Throughout, Matt was communicative, kind, and represented me with integrity and grit. One of the more notable parts of Matt’s representation of me was whenever we had mediations or hearings in front of the Court, he stood up for me in ways that I have never been able to do for myself. To have a lawyer like that in my corner meant more to me than words can describe. I can honestly say that I would not have been able to make it through this process without him. Matt was able to get me everything I asked for and more. For the high level of representation I received, and for the care he gave to me and my case from the beginning to the end (especially in such an emotionally charged and delicate situation), Matt was worth every penny I spent to hire him as my lawyer. I could not give him a higher recommendation. Thank you, Matt, from the bottom of my heart, and thank you to your amazing Paralegal, Amanda, for making this process as least painful and as smooth as possible given the circumstances. You guys are truly the best! -Karina
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01 Jul, 2024 by C f
Highly recommend Patrick Watkins and Kimberly Williams for all your legal needs. Very easy to work with and always answered all my questions. Explained all the legal procedures and walked me through everything. Great team to work with!
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26 Mar, 2024 by Adrien tubbs
Will do a good job at misrepresenting minorities while getting paid to do so I highly do not recommend for ANYONE . Trust me there is better representation elsewhere
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19 Aug, 2024 by Karina english-huerta
I hired Attorney Matt Patton in July of 2023 to help me with my divorce. From the very first moment I met Matt, he was not only professional and knowledgeable, but he made me feel supported, empowered, understood, and at ease. What should have taken a few months to process took over a year because of things outside both of our control. Matt was there for me every step of the way and felt my frustrations as his own. He did everything in his power to get this handled for me quickly and efficiently. Throughout, Matt was communicative, kind, and represented me with integrity and grit. One of the more notable parts of Matt’s representation of me was whenever we had mediations or hearings in front of the Court, he stood up for me in ways that I have never been able to do for myself. To have a lawyer like that in my corner meant more to me than words can describe. I can honestly say that I would not have been able to make it through this process without him. Matt was able to get me everything I asked for and more. For the high level of representation I received, and for the care he gave to me and my case from the beginning to the end (especially in such an emotionally charged and delicate situation), Matt was worth every penny I spent to hire him as my lawyer. I could not give him a higher recommendation. Thank you, Matt, from the bottom of my heart, and thank you to your amazing Paralegal, Amanda, for making this process as least painful and as smooth as possible given the circumstances. You guys are truly the best! -Karina
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01 Jul, 2024 by C f
Highly recommend Patrick Watkins and Kimberly Williams for all your legal needs. Very easy to work with and always answered all my questions. Explained all the legal procedures and walked me through everything. Great team to work with!
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26 Mar, 2024 by Adrien tubbs
Will do a good job at misrepresenting minorities while getting paid to do so I highly do not recommend for ANYONE . Trust me there is better representation elsewhere
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16 Jul, 2019 by Amy
I had good recommendations for Mr. Goldstein from two sources, and chose him for my divorce attorney due to his reputation for being pragmatic, and tough. To my surprise, my discussions with my husband went smoothly and we agreed on everything. We are both educated, processionals. I wished to save money, and not file unnecessary paperwork, etc. Initially, Mr. Goldstein hesitantly worked with me, however we ultimately had a difference of opinion when I did not feel certain motions needed to be filed out of "an abundance of caution" in his words. I have been through the process previously, and have friends who are attorneys. Therefore, due to the fact that things were very amicable, I did not feel "an abundance of caution" was necessary. The response I received was incredibly unprofessional and condescending. I could not believe that someone in his position, who deals with individuals in delicate, emotional situations daily, would speak to a client in such a manner. He browbeat me with motions passed as to how he had the right to proceed in my case how he wished, without informing me or discussing it with me. Essentially, how he had the right to spend my money how he chose, and then ask for more of course. He may be the attorney for someone with deep pockets, who doesn't mind being insulted during a sensitive time, but not for me.
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23 Mar, 2017 by Allan
If you are in the need of the professional services of an attorney. The key to finding the right legal representation, it seems to me, is finding a person that is both expertly qualified in the field of law that is the core of your legal issue, and that you can connect with personally. A person you are going to feel comfortable with at not just from a legal perspective, but also comfortable at a interpersonal level of communication as well. In my case after years of fighting with my HOA, I have finally gotten the full support of the local sheriff department. If this sounds at all like the kind of legal help that you are looking for, then. I most highly recommend Peter B. Goldstein Esq. Sincerely, Allan L. P Client
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21 Aug, 2023 by Nate
Given my experience, John Tatlock, is an awful attorney. He was lazy and disengaged, combative with me when I advocated for myself, and brought no financial expertise, which is why I hired him in the first place. In hindsight and after review from a new firm it is clear that John as a shareholder is more interested in billing than representing. I am extremely disappointed that this quality of lawyer is acceptable in the Denver legal system. Steer Clear
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23 Mar, 2016 by Wayne
John, represented me on my divorce case, where it was very litigious and complicated by the other party. He defended my with honor and saved me from some major expenses, we had to go to trial several times because of the other parties unwillingness to cooperate with the court orders, and on most of the issues was able to win many of the rulings in my favor. He is quite confident and represents his clients well in court and is very well prepared and ready to fight for what is right and just. He is also a very smart and compassionate family attorney who knows his stuff. He was always available on the phone/email and responded to my queries promptly. Above all, he is a great human being who genuinely cares for his clients. I felt I not only found an excellent attorney but a great friend as well.
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13 Mar, 2016 by Patrick
I was very disappointed with the way that the Harris Law Firm handled my case. The firm was expensive, difficult to keep on task, and the attorneys rarely dedicated the needed time to handle important things that came up. In the weeks leading up to the final hearing, the firm personnel were increasingly difficult to reach and ultimately, with only three weeks prior to hearing, they filed a surprise, uncoordinated withdrawal. This threw the case into chaos and completely changed the hearing schedule, adding months to the process with much additional emotional and financial pain. I would not hire this firm again
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29 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired this guy and he told me he would be using one of his other new attorneys to do some of the grunt work to keep the costs down. He disappeared after that and no matter how often I requested he get involved I was stuck with the young, inexperienced attorney which ended up costing me a lot more money and frustration. It looks like he was on probation the same time I hired him which was never disclosed to me. Also, they billed my credit card several times without my permission even when I told them not to and that I preferred to write a check. I finally had to cancel my card since they were obviously keeping it on file somewhere without my permission.
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23 Jul, 2014 by Thomas
Dave fought hard for me in a tough situation. I didn't do much to help him by not following the Court's Orders and not listening to his advice, but he didn't pull any punches and told me the cold, hard truth about the consequences. Because he was so honest about how my case would play out in court, I trusted his advice and things turned around. Can't say I got everything I wanted, but I can say I think I got everything I could.
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22 Sep, 2023 by Susy
She is my ex's second attorney. She came in after the CFI's work is done. Through the recent Financial Statement she made for my ex. I can tell she is far away from professional by ignoring all the facts that have presented by my ex and his 1st attorney.
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09 May, 2023 by Ann
Best attorney I have had!! She listened and went after what was best for me and my kids! She's a kick-butt attorney!!
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27 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
If I could give no stars I would. He’s a fraud and scams elders! Waste of time and money. Steers you in the wrong direction but happily takes your money!
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16 Nov, 2022 by Pitrone
Rickey has done magnificent work for myself, family and friends over the last 25 years. In this age when honesty and integrity aren’t the norm Rickey has these qualities in abundance!!!
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26 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
If I could give a 0 rating I would this man should have retired 10 years ago all he does is talk to you like you're a friend and he gives you advice but never actually helps you with your court case. He sat in on a mediation with me and talked to my sister the entire time about her living in New York and then turned around and tried to charge me thousands of dollars for it. I ended up having to complete my entire case alone with the courts. He should be disbarred if you ask me and he should give his services away for free.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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