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30 Jan, 2025 by Tracy chernick
Attorney Morrell took over as my attorney in my divorce action from my prior attorney and I wish I never made that mistake. If I could issue a 0 start review I would, but Google does not allow that.
When Attorney Morrell took over he made several promises to me. I paid him $9,200 initially. He did not touch my case for 3 months. I sent him a message after 3 months saying I had not heard from him at all and asked him to contact me. He didn't contact me for about 3 weeks after, which was 2 days before my court date.
In my case there was an issue involving a pre-nuptial agreement. My attorney reached out to my prior counsel to get his opinion on what he thought the issues were. I found this to be very unprofessional because it told me he was lazy and did not want to do work on my case.
I want to make it clear that Attorney Morrell had my pre-nuptial for 10 months before we had a hearing on this issue. He did not read this until the day before court. I was in his office when this happened and he had 3 interns and another attorney with him. Again, he was unprepared.
Every time I would have meetings with Attorney Morrell I would have to go to his Appleton Office. If a meeting began at 12:00 pm, he would not get me until 12:20. When the meeting started I would sit down at his office and his first response was "what's up". Rather than use the time to discuss court he would divert and discuss what cars he wanted to purchase. He basically had me go to his office to make it appear we were discussing the divorce but that never occurred. Instead he made it about him.
As my case progressed to my final hearing there were deadlines set by the court. Before this occurred, I had to pay Attorney Morrell another $9800. He informed me that this would be all that is required. He told me the $9800 would be for discovery, a deposition, and for additional things.
Attorney Morrell NEVER did discovery and in fact missed a VERY important court deadline that impacted my case. When the deadline passed and was missed, Attorney Morrell tried to cover his rear end by filing a motion to compel with the court. He also tried to get a continuance. These were denied and the court found that his actions were not reasonable as he had over a year to get information requested.
He NEVER did a deposition, and there were never "additional things". When I questioned Attorney Morrell about this he blamed it on his secretary. Not only did Attorney Morrell not care about my case, but he tried to blame others for his laziness and lack of attention. It was only ever about the money for him.
Speaking of money, Attorney Morrell forced me to sign a document the day of court for my final hearing. I was not provided this document in advance and had no idea what I was signing. This document apparently was for me to pay him more money. He flipped to a page in court and said "here sign this". He didn't say what it was for. I thought it was for me to sign off as him still representing me. Instead it was a disguised contract for more money.
The day of my final hearing Attorney Morrell showed up with nothing prepared. The day before my hearing a time was set up to discuss the final divorce date but instead Attorney Morrell told me he was upset with me because I sent him a message with everything he did not do.
At my hearing Attorney Morrell played on his computer and was not attentive. I could not be more dissatisfied with Attorney Morrell.
I would not recommend him to anyone. If you want to pay a lot of money to have an attorney not work on your case, then he is your guy. If you are looking for an attorney that properly communicates, doesn't miss deadlines, doesn't blame others for his faults, is prepared for hearings, is punctual, and advocates, then Attorney Morrell is NOT who you want on your side.
I could go on and on about Attorney Morrell and his representation but there is a word limit to these reviews. Therefore, this is all I can write given that restraint.
Do not go with Attorney Morrell. Blank promises and lies. Huge red flag.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Ashley casperson
I never thought I’d need an attorney, but when I needed one Jack was quick to help. He is really great at getting back to me about any questions or concerns that I have. Both Jack and Claire are wonderful, and I don’t feel like there is anything I can’t go to them about. The custody process has been hard on me, and Jack has always been kind, understanding, and he provides positive reassurance when it’s tough to see. I genuinely could not have gone through this process without Jack’s help.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Marjorie lopez
I had the pleasure of being represented in family court by attorney Bailey Holt, whom was nothing short of exceptional. She was willing to hear my side of the story without judgment, while also providing critical feedback and options to choose from. Our meetings together were efficient and prompt. Although she is no longer representing me, she left the door open for questions and the opportunity to hire her again in the future. I highly recommend Sterling Lawyers, LLC and specifically attorney Bailey Holt.
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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:
-
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.
