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19 Jun, 2014 by John
Kyndra Griffin was so very helpful with the entire process. I went to her with multiple tickets. She wasn't to expensive and she gplot all my charges dismissed. She was very nice, respectful, and very knowledgeable through the whole process. I would recommend her for any legal situation you may have.
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11 Jun, 2014 by Traci
I found Ms. Griffin after conducting searches online and reading reviews. I contacted her office, she immediately returned the call. She answered all my questions, and explained in detail how she could help with my traffic violation. She handled my case from start to finish and kept me updated via email every step of the way. I appreciate her help with my case and would use her again myself and recommend highly to others.
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12 Mar, 2014 by Casey
I have only needed a lawyer a few times in my life. This was the best experience I have had. I have never had a lawyer communicate so well and quickly. Also she did all the footwork on my case. I never had to take a step in the courthouse. I highly recommend Kyndra Griffin to anyone who values priorities and communication.
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25 Mar, 2024 by T. scott
Jennifer was wonderful and able to help me when 5 other attorneys could not. She was very easy to work and went above and beyond.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Sue
Jennifer was exceptional! She listened to us and advised us accordingly. I am so glad we had her to help us through this difficult time. She is wonderful to work with. She went above and beyond to make sure everything went smoothly. She is definitely A+ when it comes to legal matters.
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01 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Ms Palmer was more than one could ask for, I would definitely recommend her services. She was on her A game during the entire process of my case and I am very grateful, especially how quickly things were resolved as well 5/5 stars from me.
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30 Aug, 2013 by Lauren
Tara Sain is an honest, knowledgeable, and compassionate lawyer. I feel I had a somewhat complex case and had already been to one lawyer that just didn't work out. I was reluctant “shopping” around for another one thinking I was just going to hear the same BS I heard from the first one. When I emailed Tara’s firm questioning their costs and procedures I immediately got a call from there paralegal who was very pleasant and clearly explained everything over the phone. The very next day I was scheduled to have a consult with Tara. After talking to her for I believe an hour and a half I knew I was going to retain her as my lawyer. Tara listened to everything I had to say without interruptions and gave me her honest feedback and thoughts on ways to proceed. I never felt rushed or like I was wasting her time, in fact I actually felt she genuinely cared about my situation. To make a long story short from day one Tara knew what my end goal was and within 6 weeks of starting something I thought would never end we had signed documents and our separation was final. I can’t say enough about Tara, she and her office impressed me from the get go with their promptness and overall concern for me and my outcome. I would recommend Tara Sain and the Mcilveen Family Law Firm to anyone in the Charlotte and surrounding area.
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20 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Paid him $2500.00 to complete a Civil Service Benefit after my separation. After 4 weeks I called to see where we stood on the order and he didn’t remember that I emailed the instructions for completing the claim. He was very rude and unprofessional. I feel that he took advantage of a new single divorced female. Only refunded $600.00 dollars. I retained a new lawyer that completed the job in one week.
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18 Jun, 2020 by Carolyn
To Carmen from March 2019. Years ago, over 20, I was referred to Lloyd Kelso by a very reputable law firm in Raleigh. He was referred as the "one of the best" Family Law Attorney's in NC. I traveled many miles to see him with a small child. At first I was very pleased. I thought I had one of the best lawyers out there. Then he left the firm he was with to go into Entertainment Law and moved his practice to Tennessee. I did not switch lawyers, I stuck with him. My divorce was a nightmare. I was caught between being a mother, a caregiver for elderly relatives, an uncooperative ex-spouse and what turned-out to be an uncaring attorney. The move was the first thing. It took 4 years to get my ex to sign the separation agreement. He held-out to keep me from claiming alienation of affection. That would have been easy to prove. He has a son by his then girlfriend who is only a little more than 5 months younger than our son. I signed-off thinking everything was great even though there was a just issue with my ex's retirement. His 401k was in the agreement but it didn't appear to me that that included all of his retirement. Years later when my husband retired I found-out that the agreement had not included his retirement from his job, even though state law says I am entitled to it. He, my ex told me he would not sign anything for me to get his retirement. All the years I had spent married to my ex, moving from county to county, leaving jobs that could have provided me and my children with sufficient income to support them, even having to give-up our house, and it looked like no one thought I deserved to be able to retire. I knew the law couldn't make my husband stay in the lives of our children, he didn't, but at least I could have been allowed to retire decently. I tried other lawyers when I found-out he had filed the QDRO at the same time I took early retirement (my job was physically killing me). I returned to Mr. Kelso who told me he hadn't promised me anything. Based on the other reviews I read that described Mr. Kelso as "brilliant, "excellent", and "Christian", and my experience and Carmen's, makes me wonder if the service he provides applies to everyone. My life is almost at an end and I want God's forgiveness so I forgive Mr. Kelso.
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03 Feb, 2020 by John
I'd met Lloyd Kelso in Gastonia decades ago through music. I have now and have had up most respect for Mr Kelso personally and professionally. I live in Burke County NC. I have had ongoing adversity before and since my divorce in 2014 while experiencing life threatening health issues including Heart, Fearful of law enforcement and Severe depression to mention a few. Been hospitalized several times in Orangeburg SC Hospital and hospitals in NC due to continuous threats, fraudulent claims against me causing worsening health issues including losing 77 lbs in matter of months, home invasion while being held in jail by false charges while Burke County Deputies along with my ex and son (on drugs) broke into my home on April 13, 2015. Never underestimate a woman's scorn after nearly 4 decades of marriage. Maybe too much information however I was so sick during this horrible time in my life I now want all to know I'm honest and starting to have better physical and mental health. Absolutely no one would take my case I believe due to high profile law enforcement involved. Also, I put my ex through 4 yrs of nursing school. Afterwards she won award for excellent Nurse patient care including caring for and rubbing elbows with highly influential people in Burke County/surrounding Counties. People like myself, Doctor, family and true friends knew a different RN, another side of the Nurse some thought they knew. Prior to divorce she refused a drug test and promptly moved to Pegram Tennessee with man supposed to be life long friend however briefly coming back to Burke County to break into my home well planned. I have confidence that Lloyd Kelso will shed some light on the long hard battle for justice I deserve so that I might be able to save remainder of land that goes back centuries with my mom's family. My prayers are being answered, God is Blessing me and I look forward to closure from the darkness and into a loving relationship with my first love from 1973, my fiance Barbara. God has blessed me with one of the top 100 family law attorneys in NC. Answering my prayers. Blessed and Grateful, John
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20 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Regina has a very hard time returning calls, answering questions, remembering her clients names, anything you tell her seems to go in one ear and out the other. She will forget tasks she agreed to complete, mistakes on paperwork, causing wrong names on court documents! She's moved her office at least twice since we hired her. We have paid over $2500 and she never returns my call. She was a good lawyer but she may be reaching a time where she needs to retire. I think we have made a dangerous choice that could cost us dearly.
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02 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
I have had the worse possible outcome and time with this attorney ! If you want your case to be over looked and you to be over charged for staying on top of her at doing her job be my guess ! This law office is not whom you are wanting to represent you at all! I had to beg and plea for help the entire time this was dragged out. $8,000 later was not worth it…the defendant was even willing to settle for MORE before court and she turned down the request. I never Got documents on time or informed of my case in detail. I was Told one thing and the defends attorney was told something else after court. This law office is a JOKE and I will be going to the BBB and NC Bar !
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20 Feb, 2020 by Melissa a williams
Attorney Regina Taylor has provided invaluable legal assistance to me. She is Knowledgeable, thorough and precise. I would definitely recommend her legal services.
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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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