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03 Dec, 2024 by Warren macdiesal
Great communication and results were fair. Would most def recommend. STOP here give them a call ASAP, Ms. Duvernay does a phenomenal job at her craft. Thanks again!!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Sharika berry
I was fortunate to have Hill Duvernay represent me. Duvernay technically top-notch, but even more importantly she genuinely cares about her clients and their families. She is tough when needed, but does so with grace. I trust her completely, have the utmost confidence in her abilities and would recommend her for any and all cases.
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25 Nov, 2024 by Michelle anderson
The lawyer is very pleasant and respectful. I. My experience may not be your experience when I call this Law Firm I let Diego that my insurance would not be taken responsibility for this accident. I asked him if they could still represent me. He said yes, they would get a copy of the police report. And try to get the charges dismissed. My first meeting with the lawyer representing this Law Firm was with a young lady. She came late to the courthouse, she wanted me to fill out a pretrial intervention form. I informed her that I couldn't fill out that form because my insurance was not taking responsibility for this accident. She asked me how do you know the insurance company has to take a responsibility? I said because it's written on the the paper. She said well let's fill it out anyway, she filled it out. I asked the young lady to have Miss Duvernay call me. When Miss Duvernay called me, I said, I had informed you that I my insurance was not taking responsibility for this accident. So I don't know I can't do the pretrial intervention. She said, you didn't inform me because I don't answer the calls. I said well I am from Santiago, she said you mean Diego I said yes maybe we can get it dismissed on the fact that he didn't give you a police report. We're on the same page now I understand. Now before my next court date I called Diego to ask him to describe the person that was coming to meet me if it wasn't going to be Miss Duvernay. He said , well we only work with two other ladies so it would be one of them preview when I got to the courthouse a gentleman call me on the phone asking me where I was located. He said I'm here to pick up the pretrial intervention form. I said okay I'm getting frustrated now I've already told Miss Duvernay is that my insurance is not taking responsibility for this accident. So he went and got a copy of the form, he said I read it I was hoping it didn't indicate that's the insurance had to take responsibility for the accident but it does. Miss Duvernay call me later that evening, she said, I thought you wanted to go ahead with it. I said that I can't do pretrial my insurance is not taking responsibility for the accident. A court date was set and missed, because I wasn't informed of the court date I just happened to check my mail, while checking my mailbox I realize that he got a failure to appear. The first thing I did was to send a message to Miss Duvernay. When she sent me a message back it started off with: "first of all..."The Law Firm did send a lawyer to go fix it. Her name Kristen Clark. I was told to wait for my next court date, the law firm would inform me. I did not believe them so I called for my next court date. They did not show, there were two other court date set they did not show for either one of those court dates. The judge even called the law firm they still miss the court date. It took a Google review Duvernay and the chargeback. She told me she had conflicts in the court should have known about it. There was only one problem she wasn't assigned to my case unless she was Kristen Clark. She did show up the next court date, but during the third Miss court date I was asked, if I wanted a public defender, I said yes. But when Ms Duvernay asked me to give her a chance I said okay since it wasn't her that was supposed to show up. Now I was told signed up with this Law Firm they would get a copy of this police report. But the public defender delivered it to me and I had to take it to the law firm. On the trial date we were supposed to meet at 9:15 because the trial was at 10:00. Miss Duvernay as with every court appearance we made she came at 9:40, I could excuse that but at 9:40 was when she told me all the evidence I had ,was usable. They had the information for a year. My Insurance indicated that they were looking at the cars damages. She did not ask for the pictures. So we went in the court with nothing. I had a diagram of the damage. Miss Duvernay asked, what's that? It was then I realized that nothing I uploaded was looked at.
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07 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
This firm and lawyer was SO helpful in helping me with my background. They were consistent and met my needs. I would. Highly recommend this firm to any and everyone looking to clear up their background.
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25 Jan, 2021 by Robyn
It my pleasure to highly recommend Attorney Genghis Shakhan. After submitting an online inquiry, he promptly responded within one hour. Attorney Genghis provided a sameday complimentary consultation over the phone to weigh my options. His professionalism and superlative customer service made all the difference. You can count on Attorney Genghis to deliver on his promise.
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21 Jan, 2021 by Jonathan
Mr. Shakhan was a great attorney! He kept me informed either by email and called when necessary but he never forgot about me and continued working on my case until the end result. And the end result was the best I could have hoped for. I strongly recommend Mr. Shakhan for help with a case or for filing paperwork and speaking with court clerks and district attorneys about programs available to those who qualify. Great Job and thank you!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Warren macdiesal
Great communication and results were fair. Would most def recommend. STOP here give them a call ASAP, Ms. Duvernay does a phenomenal job at her craft. Thanks again!!
Read more
25 Nov, 2024 by Sharika berry
I was fortunate to have Hill Duvernay represent me. Duvernay technically top-notch, but even more importantly she genuinely cares about her clients and their families. She is tough when needed, but does so with grace. I trust her completely, have the utmost confidence in her abilities and would recommend her for any and all cases.
Read more
25 Nov, 2024 by Michelle anderson
The lawyer is very pleasant and respectful. I. My experience may not be your experience when I call this Law Firm I let Diego that my insurance would not be taken responsibility for this accident. I asked him if they could still represent me. He said yes, they would get a copy of the police report. And try to get the charges dismissed. My first meeting with the lawyer representing this Law Firm was with a young lady. She came late to the courthouse, she wanted me to fill out a pretrial intervention form. I informed her that I couldn't fill out that form because my insurance was not taking responsibility for this accident. She asked me how do you know the insurance company has to take a responsibility? I said because it's written on the the paper. She said well let's fill it out anyway, she filled it out. I asked the young lady to have Miss Duvernay call me. When Miss Duvernay called me, I said, I had informed you that I my insurance was not taking responsibility for this accident. So I don't know I can't do the pretrial intervention. She said, you didn't inform me because I don't answer the calls. I said well I am from Santiago, she said you mean Diego I said yes maybe we can get it dismissed on the fact that he didn't give you a police report. We're on the same page now I understand. Now before my next court date I called Diego to ask him to describe the person that was coming to meet me if it wasn't going to be Miss Duvernay. He said , well we only work with two other ladies so it would be one of them preview when I got to the courthouse a gentleman call me on the phone asking me where I was located. He said I'm here to pick up the pretrial intervention form. I said okay I'm getting frustrated now I've already told Miss Duvernay is that my insurance is not taking responsibility for this accident. So he went and got a copy of the form, he said I read it I was hoping it didn't indicate that's the insurance had to take responsibility for the accident but it does. Miss Duvernay call me later that evening, she said, I thought you wanted to go ahead with it. I said that I can't do pretrial my insurance is not taking responsibility for the accident. A court date was set and missed, because I wasn't informed of the court date I just happened to check my mail, while checking my mailbox I realize that he got a failure to appear. The first thing I did was to send a message to Miss Duvernay. When she sent me a message back it started off with: "first of all..."The Law Firm did send a lawyer to go fix it. Her name Kristen Clark. I was told to wait for my next court date, the law firm would inform me. I did not believe them so I called for my next court date. They did not show, there were two other court date set they did not show for either one of those court dates. The judge even called the law firm they still miss the court date. It took a Google review Duvernay and the chargeback. She told me she had conflicts in the court should have known about it. There was only one problem she wasn't assigned to my case unless she was Kristen Clark. She did show up the next court date, but during the third Miss court date I was asked, if I wanted a public defender, I said yes. But when Ms Duvernay asked me to give her a chance I said okay since it wasn't her that was supposed to show up. Now I was told signed up with this Law Firm they would get a copy of this police report. But the public defender delivered it to me and I had to take it to the law firm. On the trial date we were supposed to meet at 9:15 because the trial was at 10:00. Miss Duvernay as with every court appearance we made she came at 9:40, I could excuse that but at 9:40 was when she told me all the evidence I had ,was usable. They had the information for a year. My Insurance indicated that they were looking at the cars damages. She did not ask for the pictures. So we went in the court with nothing. I had a diagram of the damage. Miss Duvernay asked, what's that? It was then I realized that nothing I uploaded was looked at.
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29 Aug, 2024 by August reaves
If you want a washed up attorney, that will destroy your finances and make your divorce an easy street for your opponent, this is the guy. May have been a great attorney at some point but now he is a rusted out thief that makes your case a win for the other side. CAUTION, use another firm.
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09 May, 2024 by Cyndi candy
So very professional and extremely satisfied with his service. Has taken my son and our family to the honesty of this divorce. Great attorney. Thank you Mr.Phil.
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22 Nov, 2022 by Mike eastridge
I would not recommend this firm at all. Merideth ran up the bill to an exuberant amount of money. My daughter is still with out her children on full time basis. Total waste of good money spent for very poor representation.
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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.
