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13 Nov, 2022 by Joel
Amazing went above and beyond to help
Me with my child custody case and because of her I got 50/50 custody definitely would recommend.
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18 Aug, 2021 by Antonio holguin
Despite the pandemic, Ms. Atkins performed an excellent job and got my divorce final with everything I wanted and plus. Extremely hard working. She is straight up front with your case and very aggressive during court. I would hire her again if need too.
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09 Oct, 2019 by Derek
Ms. Adkins is an amazing attorney. Always kept me informed about my case. The case took a while by no fault of hers but she kicked butt and won the case all in my favor. So here is to all the dads fighting for custody, she is well worth it! She is a fighter and doesn’t go down without a fight. Thank you so much Ms. Adkins and staff! You guys are beyond amazing.
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20 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
He has helping me for 9 years eve rime in in need of a lawyer he is very hones safe to be with.fair to you on payment very nice person and staff.I will always go back to him Im so happy his my lawyer and I will never change him.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Tim gonzalez
The Law Office of Romero & Warrick did an excellent job with my divorce and custody battle. As a man, a custody fight is a uphill battle but they were willing to fight for what I wanted. I was able to maintain custody of my daughter and I could not have asked for a better team.
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28 May, 2024 by Haley aboud (haley marie)
14 Feb, 2024 by Emily coslet
Mrs. Warrick is phenomenal! We have been fighting custody issues to no avail for years. She took our case and made quick work of it. She was a great communicator, answered all our questions and was so helpful. Thank you Mrs. Warrick for renewing our faith and helping us fight for the best interests of our child!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Jessica cooper
I personally had a great experience with both Wes (representing me) and Vanessa’s (assistant) assistance throughout my court case. I don’t recall who I did the initial meeting with, but it was very professional and I couldn’t beat the price. I believe this was the most reasonable pricing for anything that I have needed legal service for in El Paso. I will say initially, I felt as though communication was “far and in between” and I am a person who prefers frequent communication. What helped with me was emailing them both and they would respond to me in a timely manner to my questions. Any questions I had they were both able to answer, and though at times I thought I may have known best Wes would come to me with great reasoning. In the end, it all worked out in my favor. Thank you.
I will add:: We do have to remember that the legal system goes at its own pace and as much as we want things to speed along, the ones who represent us can only do so much in that regard; they are also at the “mercy” of the courts.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Ale carreon
Best attorney, Cesar Lozano is an awesome attorney very helpful!!!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Erika honesto
We recently had the pleasure of working with Lozano Meza Law Firm and we couldn’t be more satisfied with the experience. This was the only law firm that contacted me the same day I reached out for information. Other law firms I attempted to contact were unavailable or seemed disinterested. I felt some relief from the initial conversation and satisfied with the resolution of our case.
I highly recommend Lozano Meza Law Firm to anyone in need of legal assistance. Their exceptional service, expertise, and dedicated approach make them a great choice for legal representation.
Thank you, Lozano Meza Law Firm for your support and for making a challenging situation much more manageable.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Jessica cooper
I personally had a great experience with both Wes (representing me) and Vanessa’s (assistant) assistance throughout my court case. I don’t recall who I did the initial meeting with, but it was very professional and I couldn’t beat the price. I believe this was the most reasonable pricing for anything that I have needed legal service for in El Paso. I will say initially, I felt as though communication was “far and in between” and I am a person who prefers frequent communication. What helped with me was emailing them both and they would respond to me in a timely manner to my questions. Any questions I had they were both able to answer, and though at times I thought I may have known best Wes would come to me with great reasoning. In the end, it all worked out in my favor. Thank you.
I will add:: We do have to remember that the legal system goes at its own pace and as much as we want things to speed along, the ones who represent us can only do so much in that regard; they are also at the “mercy” of the courts.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Ale carreon
Best attorney, Cesar Lozano is an awesome attorney very helpful!!!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Erika honesto
We recently had the pleasure of working with Lozano Meza Law Firm and we couldn’t be more satisfied with the experience. This was the only law firm that contacted me the same day I reached out for information. Other law firms I attempted to contact were unavailable or seemed disinterested. I felt some relief from the initial conversation and satisfied with the resolution of our case.
I highly recommend Lozano Meza Law Firm to anyone in need of legal assistance. Their exceptional service, expertise, and dedicated approach make them a great choice for legal representation.
Thank you, Lozano Meza Law Firm for your support and for making a challenging situation much more manageable.
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27 Apr, 2024 by Mario fuentes
A true coward in more ways than one.
A couple of years ago I hired Mr. Rago to take on a bogus harassement case. Paid $1500.00 for his services at the time. Never spoke with him, only his investigator. The investigator was excellent. However Mr Rago never had any contact with me directly or I with him. I seemed to be designed that way on purpose by this office. I was told case would be dismissed based on what was presented in the complaint.
However pre-trial court dates would come and go and I would not receive notifications from him or his staff that they were coming up. I was the one that would log in repeatedly to the system to find out that my dates were approaching. Otherwise I would have missed them. Sometimes I would get a call a few minutes before the hearing was to start.
Every time I would call for updates or progress, no response or no results provided. If it wasn't for me inquiring I would have no information. On his contract or agreement that you sign upon hiring him, there is a clause that states that if you make repeated inquiries to his office, there is a fee that may be assessed to you. It appears that returning calls, or progress updates are not priority and that if you keep asking why they are not responding, their response could be a fee to you.
Long story short, THE THINGS I WAS TOLD WOULD HAPPEN DID NOT. I was also told to pay fees for subpoenas. I paid and was told they filed it to the wrong company and that I would have to pay again for them to send it to the right people. I insisted the fault was not mine and they claimed they filed it to the right place later on. However, there was no documentation for the results of the supposed 2nd subpoena.
I had to take it upon myself to negotiate on my own when I was ultimately told by Mr Ragos office that if I wanted them to truly give me the results I was promised from the beginning, I would have to pay $4000.00 more or I could pick another attorney.
I chose not to pursue the matter further since HIS SERVICES WERE DISMAL. I agreed to some courses and more fees to simply get this nonsense over with. I negotiated some courses off on my own without his help since he ignored my request to do so.
A final note, on the last court date my case was being presided by a different judge than the one I had been assigned. When I put up a counter argument based on what I was told to me by the original judge, the prosecuting attorney raised his voice and threatened Mr. Rago by telling him he would "the deal" if I kept insisting on what the original judge advised me directly. Mr Rago instead of standing up and fighting for me , his client, he told me the "back and forth" was nonsense and to accept. HE WAS A TRUE COWARD. Don't know if he currently is.
My opinion is that it was a waste of my time and more importantly my money for something I could have done with a public defender on my own. Again all of this is my opinion.
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19 Apr, 2024 by Alvaro badillo
04 Mar, 2024 by Mike reyes
I was represented by Ms. Samantha Rago for a Child Custody Modification back in 2023. I was very pleased with her professionalism. She was always there to answer any of my questions in a promptly manner. She went above and beyond to help me in anyway possible with my case. I truly appreciate her hard work and dedication around the clock to win the case for me as a father. She was very knowledgeable and had much expertise in family law. She truly cared about helping me and was always honest about the situation, which I truly appreciate. Ms. Rago and her staff were always very friendly and made me feel comfortable since the beginning. It was a pleasure being represented by her. I would highly recommend her to anyone who needs representation in a child custody case. I know for a fact I will be going back to her if ever I need representation again.
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24 Feb, 2022 by Kristi
All of us who have been through a brutal family case know how choosing a lawyer means putting your life and your Children’s lives into the hands of someone else who will navigate the fire hoops of the law and opposing counsels for you, intensely, for a very long time. It is a journey.
If you are reading this and trying to find an attorney, if you need a bulldog, I am here to give my recommendation to retain Patrick Bramblett. I am one of his veteran clients who has been through it all. I interviewed many attorneys, and I chose Patrick with a leap of faith because he told me to give him the rocks and he will build me a fortress. And he did. He will for you, too. Please go into the situation with the understanding that lawyers cannot change the laws, there will be unpleasant times, and it is going to take time. However, Patrick and staff (all of them) will use brute legal muscle to settle or litigate your case with not just average results, but the absolute best possible outcome there is. I’m here with my own name and face to testify that you can trust Bramblett. He took me from the most terrifying time of my life and immediately began building my fortress for my daughter and I, and making us whole again. Using his experience, expertise, and statutes, he bulldozed over the opposing party even though they also had a very good counsel, to secure my primary custody of my daughter, secured provisions for us to be protected, secured my share of the estate, and saw to it that I receive the maximum child support and spousal support, and that the opposing party paid attorney fees. Boom. He also made sure that I stayed emotionally sound throughout the nerve racking, frustrating, even frightening and humiliating facets of the process.
Stay calm and let Bramblett build your legal fortress. He will do what’s best for you and your children. Thank you Patrick, Robert, Joe, Spencer, Angie and I wish you all the best.
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18 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
My case was very complex with a lot of details and Mr. Bramblett and his staff were able to get me custody of my daughter. I don't regret hiring him. He is a great guy and fierce in the court room! You can just tell he truly loves what he does.
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24 Aug, 2021 by Manuel
Patrick Bramblett me ayudo con mi divorcio y con la custodia de mis hijos en el 2005.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Maribel velasco
24 Aug, 2024 by Mark guil
I was impressed by Mr. Ortiz expertise. He handled my case with professionalism and achieved an outstanding result. He showed a deep understanding of my personal situation and demonstrated empathy throughout the legal process. He has a thorough knowledge of the law and defended my case with determination. I highly recommend his law firm.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Youngin juarez
Best in the 915
Thank you Ruben Ortiz
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21 Aug, 2024 by Desiree avila
19 Aug, 2024 by Virginia smith
Cheryl Davis and her team lifted an immeasurable weight off my shoulders! They were caring, they listened, they talked me off the ledge on more than one occassion.
Cheryl's team kept me up to date and in the loop about everything. As Tom Petty sang, "The waiting is the hardest part". He was not exaggerating.
I was referred to Cheryl by a kind gentleman on Reddit, and for that, I will be forever grateful!
If you are struggling, reach out to The Law Offices of Cheryl Davis. They will 100% help you.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Michael waller
Cheryl made this process as painless as possible. Her and her team (big shout out to Jenny and Tammy) held my hand through the entire process, with frequent updates and reminders. She walked me through the paperwork instead of handing me a packet, and was extremely compassionate during this vulnerable time. She even helped me during her vacation. I wish I would have filed sooner, but then I wouldn't have had the opportunity to find Cheryl Davis and her team. I am so grateful for their help and am very pleased with the results.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Desiree avila
19 Aug, 2024 by Virginia smith
Cheryl Davis and her team lifted an immeasurable weight off my shoulders! They were caring, they listened, they talked me off the ledge on more than one occassion.
Cheryl's team kept me up to date and in the loop about everything. As Tom Petty sang, "The waiting is the hardest part". He was not exaggerating.
I was referred to Cheryl by a kind gentleman on Reddit, and for that, I will be forever grateful!
If you are struggling, reach out to The Law Offices of Cheryl Davis. They will 100% help you.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Michael waller
Cheryl made this process as painless as possible. Her and her team (big shout out to Jenny and Tammy) held my hand through the entire process, with frequent updates and reminders. She walked me through the paperwork instead of handing me a packet, and was extremely compassionate during this vulnerable time. She even helped me during her vacation. I wish I would have filed sooner, but then I wouldn't have had the opportunity to find Cheryl Davis and her team. I am so grateful for their help and am very pleased with the results.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Sue z
Efficient, knowledgeable, confidential. Easy to work with and understanding. Highly recommend Mr. Paul Kubinsky and legal assistant Mario Saenz.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Laura amato
26 Feb, 2024 by Joseph wucik
Great Service. Imelda was remarkable every step of the way.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Ernesto diaz
Erica and Team, what an excellent team of professionals. Your empathy, compassion through the divorce process, was comforting. You made me feel very comfortable. I’m also very satisfied with the final result! Thank you for everything. Love and light.
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18 Aug, 2024 by Xavier grajeda
25 Jul, 2024 by Red
If you are seeking legal help for custody, or child support go to another law firm, they rather take vacations, ignore phone calls and emails than help out.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Caro bugarin
Poor communication with Mr. Lopez is really hard to get a hold of him or his staff they never answer the phone you need to call 3 o 4 days in a row to get an answer. Wouldn't recommend since communication is poor, was not lucky get an appointment with him. My husband was court appointed I think that's the main reason why
he really did not care about his case., That is sad we really needed the help and no one at his office seemed to care about the the case and provide the case information we needed
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23 Aug, 2023 by Toon life productions
Very professional and knowledgeable. I hired him for my case and was genuinely satisfied with the end result. He worked hard to make sure that I got out on good terms. Even when countless district attorneys did everything in their power to make my situation harder than it needed to be, he stayed persistent and firm on my case until things worked out in my favor. Would definitely recommend
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23 Aug, 2023 by Fernando gonzales
He was the best lawyer I have ever used very respectful always came through on his word, and staff is always helpful as well when louis is away from the office
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23 Aug, 2024 by Abraham medina
Mrs.Adkins and Mr.Shepard are both very knowledgeable, courtesy and professional at all times. Whenever a situation sprang up or I had a question both were there to answer questions in a timely manner. Divorce can be very complicated and confusing but they made it simple. Mrs.Adkins not only will help you, but as well tell you how it is, and is very straightforward with you. She is very humble, and kind during a difficult and confusing time. I advise everyone to put your trust in her and her team as well LISTEN to what she has to tell you because she really knows what’s best. Put your ego aside because she WILL help. Thank you ma’am for the hard work and dedication!
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01 Apr, 2024 by Jay tallon
I didn't know what to do at the beginning of the divorce process, but Ms. Adkins guided me through it and helped me feel confident. Throughout a difficult period she was understanding, compassionate, and effective and I'm very grateful for her help. I couldn't recommend her more highly.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Brittney preble
A couple years ago when I was 19 years old I was in an abusive marriage. He beat me in front of my children and that was the last straw. I called this women for help, told her I had no idea what I was doing, that I was young and was being abused. She started yelling at me going off saying I was scamming her and asking for free services. I broke down crying, I felt so alone and defeated. I in no way was looking for “free services” i was young, confused, distraught, and trying to find someone who could help me figure out the process of divorce. She made me feel so awful and alone, I almost stayed in an abusive marriage solely because of this woman. I doubt she remembers me but I sure remember her and now that I am almost 30 I see even more how absolutely vile what she did and said was. I was a child being beaten and when I reached out to her for help all she did was yell at me and belittle me. Ms “Adkins”, I whole heartedly hope you are ashamed of yourself, you definitely should be
also- do not respond to my post with some ignorant excuse like you respond to everyone else with a negative review. as far as i can see, every negative review is more or less about the same thing, you being rude, insensitive, and responding to people with a unnecessary and unprofessional attitude. i don’t see that all being a coincidence. on top of that every response to their reviews is you coming up with some excuse and trying to turn things around to make it seem like they just don’t wanna hear the truth. here’s a tip, you can tell the truth and not be an as*hole to people going through one of the hardest times of their lives. you in no way shape or form care about any of these people, all you care about is your paycheck and that is beyond shameful and honestly disgusting. you do not deserve to be in this profession
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02 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
She is good at what she does. I hired her for my divorce and she got it done i had already started the process. she charged me $900.
BUT dont look for her with out an appointment because she yelled at me when i did.
my ex basically kidnapped my children and i was devastated. i looked for her for advice and she went off on me.... that would be the only bad thing.
but professional wise, she is good.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Moni r
Terrible communication with Carlos Quinonez. Would not use this law firm for family practice or general legal representation, unless you are expecting to be highly disappointed. Lack of preparation for court. Schedules appointments and don’t fulfill them or communicate the changes that may or may not come up. The lists continues but I would say hire at your own risk.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Vanessa skye
Yes you stole my money and did absolutely nothing but steal my money. Return my money you didn't earn and we can talk.DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME on this fraud, FIND A COMPETENT ATTORNEY THAT KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE DOING, They DON'T keep their word, they don't research anything and they will just TAKE YOUR MONEY and over bIll you for their mistakes when you tell them don't do that three different times, Then you will have to hire a COMPETENT attorney who will actually do what you pay them for.
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15 May, 2024 by Nicolette ladoulis
19 Sep, 2024 by Boobie cookie
I've hired my fair share of lawyers over the years but none of which displayed this level of confidence, resourcefulness and dedication. I like to believe that some people have gifts and are born to be great at certain things naturally and mark t Davis is one of those people. I mean from my perspective he reminds me of sherlock Homles. The way he thought outside the box and handled my case was nothing less then inspiring to say the least and if you actually met him in person he has the demeanor of sherlock homes too, which I found to be comforting in a sense. His staff was also resourceful, great with communication and straight forward. I admire that. In the end I was able to take home a victory in which I wasn't expecting, given the fact of being a man in today's society fighting to be in his child's life and having custody. I can tell you from personal experience mark t Davis and his staff are nothing short of extraordinary.
P.S- I don't take the time out to write reviews, to be honest this is my first time writing a review but I'm compelled to show my gratitude. I want to take this time to say THANK YOU. Not only for helping me win this case but for inspiring hope for men like me fighting to be a father in there child's life..
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26 Aug, 2024 by Brandon dawson
This law firm went above and beyond in order to ensure I won my case. I would recommend to anyone who is fighting for their right to be a parent when someone unfairly tries to restrict you. Would give 10 stars. Everyone from the paralegals to the lawyers are great people.
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19 Aug, 2024 by A michelle fawley
Just wrapped up my divorce case/custody with the law office of Mark T Davis representing me. the process was quite fast and easy and worth every penny. I couldn't have asked for a better outcome.
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05 Mar, 2022 by Roberto hernandez
04 May, 2021 by Samuel williams for congress fl 10
01 Apr, 2021 by Jesus yepez
09 Aug, 2024 by Anna
I agree she's the worst lawyer she's only working for the money, you pay her and she goes against the other parent decisions, we are going to take her to court for what she is doing
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30 Jul, 2024 by Ray
Wish I could give them 0 stars . Trash attorney won’t care for your case . Horrible!!!
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09 Jul, 2024 by Jazmine dattoli
If I can give a 0 I would !! This office is the worse don’t spend your time nor money. I have been waiting for a call back since last week regarding
My moms case. Yes she was a attorney that was appointed to her but still you don’t just wash your hands after her last court and not care, that just shows what kind of lawyer you truly are ! I suggest you look elsewhere !!!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Anna
I agree she's the worst lawyer she's only working for the money, you pay her and she goes against the other parent decisions, we are going to take her to court for what she is doing
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30 Jul, 2024 by Ray
Wish I could give them 0 stars . Trash attorney won’t care for your case . Horrible!!!
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09 Jul, 2024 by Jazmine dattoli
If I can give a 0 I would !! This office is the worse don’t spend your time nor money. I have been waiting for a call back since last week regarding
My moms case. Yes she was a attorney that was appointed to her but still you don’t just wash your hands after her last court and not care, that just shows what kind of lawyer you truly are ! I suggest you look elsewhere !!!
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19 Aug, 2021 by Pauline
I hired Mr. Smith to represent me in my NON- Contested Divorce, he didn’t have to do anything but show up and handle the paperwork because my ex husband and I had come to an agreement on everything.. this wanna be lawyer couldn’t even handle not having much to do! He wouldn’t return phone calls, emails , and his staff is no better.
On the day of my court hearing, the judge stated she was missing paperwork that was supposed to be submitted by his office. When this poor excuse of an office finally did get the paperwork to the judge it was scanned in upside down, my embarrassment was noticeable.
After the divorce his office was supposed to submit the paperwork so I could receive my portion of what was agreed upon regarding my settlement and nothing has been done, they submitted the forms once and it wasn’t dated so I have to wait all over again. I have been trying to contact this office and no one answers, no one returns phone calls and NO ONE COMMUNICATES!
I hate that I didn’t read the reviews on this firm before going through and hiring him so STAY AWAY FROM THIS FIRM PLEASE there are plenty of competent lawyers out there and he is not one of them.
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14 Oct, 2020 by Brandi
Absolutely do NOT use this Law Office. The Law Office of Douglas C. Smith had me invest thousands as a retainer in February, and has had poor communication with me and absolutely zero communication with the Oklahoma court my case originated out of. I entrusted Mr. Smith with the safety and future of my children, as well as my peace of mind. According to the El Paso County website, my case was set for dismissal at 0830 this morning due to lack of movement. If you want an attorney who cares and invests the time and energy into your case, he is not it. I am absolutely floored that this happened.
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02 Nov, 2017 by Mary
Going through a legal matter can and will be stressful and frustrating. However, Mr. Smith and his staff helped make this process easier with their professionalism and knowledge of legal matters. Although I wanted the matter over and done with, I had to understand that some elements were out of their control. The court and legal system is long and tedious, making it hard for any legal office to schedule hearings or file paperwork in a timely manner. Circumstances may be out of their control.
I'd like to extend my gratitude to Mr. Smith and his staff for my successful outcome.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Brown for a modification/enforcement case and had him on my case for ~2 yrs. The father in my case had been repeatedly and continuously breaking the court order and not allowing possession time with our son because he either 'forgot' or 'wanted to sleep in' or blah blah blah. During what was supposed to be a 2 day trial, Mr. Brown pressured me to settle and agree to terms that I was not comfortable with. He neglected to bring up very important evidence in my case that was submitted to the court during a discovery process (evidence that was against the opposing party) and seemed very disorganized during the trial fumbling through papers, taking very long periods of pause and appearing as if he had no clue what he was going to say next. In my opinion, he knew exactly what he was doing since he had 2 yrs to get to know my case and we prepared for the trial the entire weekend prior. There was submitted evidence of a car accident with my ~6 y/o child and his father on a holiday weekend night at ~1AM where he ran over the median onto incoming traffic lane and hit a boulder and his car was totaled-evidence that questioned possible drunk driving with our child. I was not notified of this car accident and father refused to allow medical treatment of our child despite paramedics advising him to and it was notated on the police report. Mr. Brown did not bring this incident to the attention of the judge and quickly changed the subject during questioning. I became highly suspicious of Mr. Brown's motives. In my opinion, he was not working for me. Mr. Brown also negatively impacted my case as he ignored my numerous emails re: my request for a motion for new trial and I was allowed a certain number of days before my case would not be able to be heard anymore. Well guess what? Mr. Brown waited until <1 week left for the deadline to end and he left me with no time to find other counsel and thus my case was no longer able to be heard in the court. Know why this happened? Because all the evidence submitted against opposing party would no longer be able to be brought up in subsequent motions/trials. The intent was to 'erase history' and erase the violations that the opposing party had committed. Mr. Brown's actions are unethical and immoral. I cannot possibly express my utmost disappointment in this attorney. So many red flags! In my opinion, he has also enabled an abuser to continue with the repetetive abusive and alienating tendencies. And who suffers? My innocent child.
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02 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Mark Briggs did not do anything that he said he was going to do (nothing). He basically took our money, made a mess of the case and then dropped us as clients (no refund). More than a year later and the Mark Briggs Nightmare continues. I'm amazed that he still able to practice law.
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30 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I understand that she is using her mother's coat tail to establish her clients, but I was very disappointed that I could not get thru past the receptionist. I paid the consultation fee, only to find out what I already knew. Fees are extremely expensive. Comparing this to a really good pair of leather shoes. You know they are good, and will last a long time, but then you see the same pair with a label and you end up paying five times more. If you have the money upfront they will talk to you, but you might be stuck with a pair of over priced leather shoes that pinch more than just your pocket. I was ready to hire the team, but I could not talk to anybody without money. I wanted to pay another $1000, and even then I couldn't speak to anybody. I knew that I wasn't going to be guaranteed a win win case, but I needed answers to some of my painful needs. My desperate actions led me to a different attorney who did answer all my questions. I lost my $250.00 consulting fee.
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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:
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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.
