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18 Sep, 2024 by Brianna
Rebecca got me through a really hard divorce a few years ago. She was kind and patient with me while also being very attentive. If she wasn’t emailing me she was calling me to give me updates (even on weekends sometimes). My life took a 180 turn faster than the speed of light and I’m so glad she was by my side! Today we are all so happy, healthy and thriving.
Hiring her was hands down the best decision I made. If you need a lawyer you can depend on- I highly recommend Rebecca.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
After interviewing several divorce lawyers, I chose Mrs. Coleman because she offered more legal advice in my first consultation than all the others combined. I came in scared but left feeling like I struck gold.
The divorce process was tough, but she never wavered. She was available during true emergencies, answering emails and calls after hours. Her attention to detail and knowledge of Alabama law were outstanding. Even a seasoned lawyer in my family said I couldn’t have hired anyone better.
Mrs. Coleman is well-respected by her peers and the court system. She was patient, direct, and transparent with me, even when I needed to hear hard truths. Trust her advice, follow her instructions, and everything will work out, knowing that El Shaddai is guiding her every step of the way.
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31 Jan, 2022 by Linnaya
Mrs Coleman was polite, listen to everything I had to say, went over everything to my understanding and then some, made sure if I had any questions they were answered and understood, staff was super sweet and respectful and did everything they could to help..I would hire this firm over and over again..truly a blessing
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30 Oct, 2023 by Atheist in alabama
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!! Faith in humanity restored thanks to these guys. I walked away with a case completely dismissed... YES, COMPLETELY DISMISSED. Which was an absolute miracle, but nothing compared to the way I was treated. I sincerely appreciate being treated like a person & not a case number, with respect & without judgment. Thank you Kristol & Robin C Wolfe 😊
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15 Sep, 2023 by Family gmail
If you don’t hire Robin, well you already lost your case. She and her team are the exception when it comes to dealing with extremely complex cases. The previous attorney dropped the ball and Robin came in and cleaned up a mess we thought was un repairable. Robin, Kristal, and Jackie are in 100% and have compassion for their clients. Best part is they have a sense of humor!! This team is AMAZING.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Lulian 27
Very professional! They were quick with answering and responding to your needs. Great Staff !
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28 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Mollie did a great job handling my divorce. This is not an easy thing to go through, but she helped me every step of the way and got the best outcome for me. I will definitely recommend her.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Trayla
Mollie was amazing to work with and with everything that happened she gave me back my life and power. I am so grateful for and her team.
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03 Oct, 2023 by Maria
Mollie was very proficient in all parts of our case. She was very responsive in answering all my questions and explaining the process/steps throughout the case. My family finally was able to receive the peace of mind we have been fighting for. I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer and legal support. I admire her work ethic and ability to represent a difficult case like ours. If I ever require legal support in the future I will without a doubt hire Mollie again.
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18 Apr, 2023 by Jennifer
Rebekah and her staff provide exceptional, quality work in a timely manner. I highly recommend them!
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20 Mar, 2023 by Rodney
Rebekah Graham and her team did an outstanding job on my case. She was to the point and made everything understandable about my case. I would highly recommend Rebekah Graham to anyone.
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20 Dec, 2022 by Lucas greene
Rebekah was great during the whole process. She was very thorough and very attentive to detail. Her response time was amazing and made the whole experience a great one. If you are looking for a great attorney who cares about her clients look know further than Rebekah and her team.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Joe moore
04 Aug, 2023 by Joey patterson
We had a lot of work done, and Her and her team did great.
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20 Mar, 2023 by Scott smith
JoAnn Perez comes from one of Huntsville’s most prestigious law firms. She has been in private practice for many years and has been very successful in her field. She is very knowledgeable and keeps current on new law in her field. When I decided that I wanted to replace my will with a trust I interviewed three attorneys before deciding on JoAnn Perez. JoAnn was clearly the most experienced and most knowledgeable. As with any good attorney she is specialized and will do the best job of any attorney in Huntsville in her field. I currently have six attorneys and I have represented myself in District Court (small claims division) opposing one of Huntsville finest. I know a good attorney when I encounter one and JoAnn is one of the finest.
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25 Apr, 2022 by Tasha
I consulted with Ms. Panter on a very convoluted case. She was very patient, understanding, and kind. She gave great advice on how to prep, what she would ask for in court if she were opposing counsel, and was simply amazing.
I wish I could find her again (she left New Beginnings) to officially hire her.
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25 Sep, 2019 by Lisa
Ruby Panter represented me during a divorce that I hadn't planned to have to initiate and she was wonderful! She was steadfast, kind, and professional. Also, the retainer fees, processes, what's expected of the client and attorney is clearly stated and explained. Overall, the entire firm, including the paralegal assigned to my case (Krissy), provided excellent legal advice and representation! I higly recommend Ruby Panter as a divorce/Family law attorney!
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17 Jul, 2018 by Leslie
Ruby was so kind and professional handling my divorce. I could not have expected or asked for a better experience overall with Ruby and her firm! Thank you, Ruby!!
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10 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Born November 14th, 2002
Perrar handled this child's case in ways i can't even formulate into words. This child's life will never be the same. Talented Attorney
Li fè yon pitit li abandoné!
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07 May, 2017 by Antoinette
I have worked with many attorneys in the past and I can honestly say that Perrar Joseph was the most compassionate and insightful of them all. Because of his guidance I was able to confidently prepare and successfully win my case against a very well known established institution.
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01 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Joseph help me get thru a complicated and delicate divorce. He took time to help me understand the various stages of the process and spoke English to me instead of lawyer talk. There were times I was discouraged and out right frustrated, my attorney talked me to me until my discouragement/frustration was gone. If you have a family law related matter this is the attorney you need to talk to.
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18 Aug, 2018 by Pam
Aaron helped me with my contentious divorce. He communicated regularly with me, responded quickly to emails and phone calls, and made sure I understood everything that was happening. He didn't mind explaining things and answered all of my questions in detail.
Unfortunately, we had to go to trial (not at all his fault, the ex refused to negotiate a settlement) but Aaron did a great job for me. He was very calm and sure, and presented my case very well before the judge. In the end, I was awarded almost everything we asked for.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Aaron for anyone needing his services.
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10 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Aaron is an outstanding, caring, professional attorney who was able to handle both child custody and personal injury claims. He is very knowledgeable and has a way of making you feel like you have a friend handling your case because of his sincerity, responsiveness, and the way he explains your options clearly.
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18 Sep, 2013 by Chelsea
Aaron cares about the cases he works on and the people included. Going through a child custody battle is the hardest thing I have ever went through, and he was very supportive and did everything he could to help.
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07 Nov, 2022 by Brittany chavarria
Such sweet people at this firm....
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04 Nov, 2021 by Mary e. grubbs
Ms. Hall saw us when we had no appointment. We appreciate that so much, and we have confidence that she is going to represent us well. She has been a very big help. Her new location is convenient, and the area is nice.
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31 Jul, 2020 by Danelle
Jamerson Godsey has done an amazing job and was well prepared on very short notice! I currently have 3 consolidated cases going on. He kept in touch with me throughout the process. He definitely fights hard for his clients. I’m sure I’m not the only client/case he has, but he make me feel like I’m his only client. I would hate to be on the opposing side of Mr. Godsey. I am confident about my future hearing with him as my attorney.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Christina
Kris Sexton is truly one of the hardest-working and most ethical human beings I've ever known. She handled my divorce in 2021 and to this day I am so thankful she represented me. She TRULY cares and has an incredible heart for families, and children in particular. Huntsville is so lucky to have her.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Melissa
Kris was recommended by my coworker. I was really apprehensive about the process and painful experience I knew was coming. She handled everything with poise, knew the law & reassured me that everything would work out. She and her paralegal were responsive to any questions I had and guided me through my divorce with no drama. I'm grateful that she is a family lawyer who listens and cares about her clients needs. I would highly recommend NxtStep Family Law for your legal counsel in domestic matters. You will get highly skilled & knowledgeable advice for your attorney that is invaluable.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Abby
Kris Sexton is an exceptional family lawyer. After enduring two years of struggle and nearly losing everything dear to me, I found myself in a situation where, without her and her firm, I would have faced total loss. The decisions I had made previously complicated matters for her, yet she never judged me or allowed me to feel defeated or without options. She consistently excels in the courtroom, and even if a motion does not yield the desired outcome, her determination only intensifies, ensuring she achieves the best possible results for her clients. My family and I are profoundly grateful to Kristina Sexton and NXTSTEP FAMILY LAW.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Aaron
I've used a few attorneys in this town, but my experience with Mr. Lusk was great. He's a great advocate, a fighter, and will go up against a "difficult" other side with no problem.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Jonathan Lusk and his legal team swiftly responded to my request for advisement. Fortunately, I did not need assistance with family law, but Jonathan took the time to provide a comprehensive explanation, clear guidance and representation regarding business operations. Grateful for the knowledge and the peace of mind. Will certainly use again for any future legal needs.
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4.7
11 Reviews
03 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Hall was my attorney during one of the worst times in my life. I felt scared to death making that initial appointment with him because of the things going on in my life at the time. It feels scary and intimidating having to explain complicated personal issues to a stranger and hoping you are making the right decision hiring this person to represent you. It was clear from the start that Mr. Hall was very professional and honest. Over the next months during my case I found that Mr. Hall was understanding and kind, even when he didn't agree with me. And for me personally that was what I needed and I think is most important, that you feel heard and understood. Divorce is complicated and you need someone with experience guiding you and that is what you get with Mr. Hall. Mr. Hall and his entire staff is professional and caring and I am certain that they are the very best in Huntsville. I will be forever grateful for the work they did for me and their patience towards me during such a difficult time!
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01 Sep, 2020 by Claudette
If you want results, look no further. Mr. Hall and his team of professionals are hands down the absolute best. Mr. Hall represented me during a very high conflict divorce and he delivered. He is very honest, straight forward and extremely knowledgable. His expertise is unparalleled. Behind the scenes, he is a very protective gentle giant with his clients but on the battlefield, he is a ferocious purebred Bullmastiff when facing the opponent. I would not have survived the nasty court battle without him on my side. I will be forever grateful to Mr. Hall and his team.
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01 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Bill Hall was absolutely incredible!! He guided me on the hardest journey of my life. He, along with the awesome Mrs. Catherine, were the DREAM TEAM! They were on top of everything that came our way! My goal was to protect my children. That became their goal as well! When you face this hard battle and you want not only the best lawyers but also the most ethical, you need this team!! The entire team can not be beat!! I was in the best hands!
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18 Oct, 2024 by Sarah cottrell
I obtained and required the services of Amy A. Slayden Family Law over the past 2 years, specific to a divorce. I interacted with everyone in the office at one point during this process and have a single phrase for the team: top-notch professionals! Throughout my divorce Amy and her team were there guiding me through the numerous challenges that come with this process. I found everyone exceptionally knowledgeable and responsive. This was such a stressful time in my life, but Amy and her team set me up for success. Amy really listened to my goals and concerns. She helped me set realistic expectations and priorities. Her knowledge on Family Law was evident in every discussion and interactions we had. I felt confident and supported with Amy and her team in my corner. Regardless of the Family Law issue you may find yourself confronted with, I strongly encourage you to meet Amy, Sarah, Dawn and Hannah.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Joshua king
Great Lawyer, with positive energy and understanding, she’s willing to represent her clients no matter the circumstances or possible outcomes…. Definitely recommend !
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jerrion mitchell
She is one of best in Huntsville Alabama I highly recommend her services she caring,understanding,and standing firm when it comes to getting the job done I wouldn’t choose no one over her🙏
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18 Oct, 2024 by Sarah cottrell
I obtained and required the services of Amy A. Slayden Family Law over the past 2 years, specific to a divorce. I interacted with everyone in the office at one point during this process and have a single phrase for the team: top-notch professionals! Throughout my divorce Amy and her team were there guiding me through the numerous challenges that come with this process. I found everyone exceptionally knowledgeable and responsive. This was such a stressful time in my life, but Amy and her team set me up for success. Amy really listened to my goals and concerns. She helped me set realistic expectations and priorities. Her knowledge on Family Law was evident in every discussion and interactions we had. I felt confident and supported with Amy and her team in my corner. Regardless of the Family Law issue you may find yourself confronted with, I strongly encourage you to meet Amy, Sarah, Dawn and Hannah.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Joshua king
Great Lawyer, with positive energy and understanding, she’s willing to represent her clients no matter the circumstances or possible outcomes…. Definitely recommend !
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jerrion mitchell
She is one of best in Huntsville Alabama I highly recommend her services she caring,understanding,and standing firm when it comes to getting the job done I wouldn’t choose no one over her🙏
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28 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Have you ever met a person, tell them your story, and they just care and want to do everything they can to ensure you are not railroaded again? They want to do all they can for you and your child??
That is Nora. Nora knows the law, she knows the Judges, she knows the court system. Nora always explains things to me and puts my mind at ease. From the date of my first filing for divorce and now the second modification, Nora has not only cared about what is best for me and my child, but has never been shy to say, "in the long run it would be more expensive to do xyz". What lawyer do you know that turns down an inflated bill! I know one, Nora. Nora doesn't waste my money, time, or energy into any of these processes.
For the time we appeared in court, she was professional, smart, and quick. Do not let her kind approach to clients fool you! She will not let you get railroaded by anyone. She stands on the side of what is right, and honestly, I'm so glad to have her and will always use Nora for as long as she practices!
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01 Aug, 2020 by Wendy
Nora was an excellent divorce attorney for me. She kept me posted on everything. She’s very good at getting back to you in a timely manner. She’s extremely intelligent and a very quick thinker on her feet! I would recommend Nora Hickman to anyone I know that is going through a contested divorce! Thank you, Nora, for all of your legal advice and help during this difficult time.
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18 Jan, 2020 by Dave
Nora (through the NXTSTEP practice in Huntsville, AL) did a fantastic job with my divorce-related case in the fall of 2019. She took a no-nonsense, serious approach to my defense. She did excellent research and preparation work. Her communication was very responsive and timely. I've encountered many lawyers in this field around Huntsville, and there are *many* duds, so I recommend you do careful research up front. I strongly encourage you to consider hiring Nora, as I will certainly do myself in the future if I ever need her services again.
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04 Jan, 2021 by Cindy
My husband left me after 37 years of marriage for another woman. I had had brain surgery 8 weeks before. To say I was in a bad way and devastated is an understatement.
From my first meeting with Mr. Burgess, I knew that God had placed me in the right hands.
His compassion and patience with me was what I truly needed at first.
I knew I was going to be alright when I heard his knowledge of divorce law. His advice was spot on and you better believe I took it!
My settlement was more than my family and I thought I would receive! I am extremely happy that I chose Mr. Burgess and consider him someone I would use for other things if needed! He is just the best!
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08 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Bill and his legal team!! They helped me through an extremely difficult divorce after long-term marriage with young children. He came highly recommended by friends and other attorneys in our community. Bill represented me through my divorce trial (with preceding court hearings as well) and through another modification hearing and trial shortly after the divorce trial, again initiated by ex. The Judge favored me in both trials (final decree from the divorce trial and the final order following the modification trial). I was initially awarded alimony, child support, and sole physical custody of the children and continue with all of these awards unchanged despite ex’s request for changes and elimination of these in the modification trial.
Not only were they exceptionally kind and attentive, but Bill’s wealth of expertise and his reputation in the legal community was definitely a plus. He and Sandra, his paralegal, knew how to navigate the many twists and turns of a complicated case and went up against both an aggressive opposing attorney and ex with confidence, ease, and wisdom. Tracy Marion, another amazing attorney new to Bill’s practice (although already a well-established and accomplished attorney) was also a huge asset in the second trial. He was very well-versed on my complex case and assisted Bill in our success. Tracy was also confident and very reassuring.
Bill has a brilliant, careful, fair, and considerate approach and listened intently to what was most important to me throughout the entire process. I am forever grateful to them and highly recommend them to others who have to go through this painful life event as well.
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07 Nov, 2017 by Kay
I retained Bill Burgess after a friend recommended him. I was repeatedly disappointed. He was cordial upon meeting him, spoke a good game, made some reassurances and took his retainer. The entire year was the most disappointing and frustrating year I have ever had dealing with him and his assistant. Besides over charging me for extraneous expenses, I am 2 years since post divorce and I am still in the legal system fighting my ex spouse because of the loop holes he allowed to pass in the final divorce decree. He and his assistant allowed me to be stuck in a joint loan with my ex-spouse who now has defaulted on his part of the loan payment which affects both of our credit even if I pay my half. I had no idea the law would not protect me nor that someone could not follow the divorce decree. When I would meet with Bill he would not remember my case, our first 30' me getting him up to speed, then he would write a letter to the opposing attorney just to be negated. My 3 friends who used him just before I did said the same thing. Never having been divorced before I wasn't sure what to expect. I am business owner myself and having done my profession > 20 years I could tell you in my sleep the normal process of start to finish. Being a divorce attorney for as long as Bill has, he should have been able to cut through the red tape, make it precise with clear cut decisions, take the emotion out of it, see the red flags and cut through the BS. No other business could run this poorly, and make the money he charged for his services. A >30 year experienced attorney should be able to help you decide what to give up and what to fight for and help you get the heck out of the legal system versus just tying you and your money up in a goat rope of letter writing with no win for anyone but his pocket book.
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07 Apr, 2019 by Jennifer
Shelley represented me for my divorce and custody dispute. Through the entire process she was extremely strategic, patient, and effective. When things got tough and I struggled to find strength, she was strong, creative, and RIGHT. She sincerely cared about me and my family. Rest assured you are in good hands with Shelley Bilbrey.
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27 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Shelley took over my contested/high-conflict divorce after a few months by recommendation. She listened to my concerns, pulled together the evidence I provided, tackled the unfortunate problems associated wtih a high-conflict divorce head-on, and strategically pulled me through the entire process. She was prompt, well organized and showed up to win whenever she set foot in the courtroom. At one point during the process I had the opportunity of what she had done in her past life and if/why she enjoys being an attorney. Her answer reassured me that she legitamately cared for the well-being of my children and was going to do in her power to make sure we acheived the outcome I was seeking. She did all of that and more and I couldn't be more grateful. Her staff was a pleasure to work with as well. THANK YOU, SHELLEY AND CREW!
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21 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Shelley is a real go getter. She won my custody trial after a tough 2 year battle. She cared about me and my kids and it showed in the courtroom.
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12 Mar, 2018 by Bob
We met with Ms. MacLachlan to identify the legal steps to evict an individual that refused to leave our property. She took the time to explain in detail what was required- she explained our rights and the tenant's. She formulated a notification to the tenant and ensured it was sent and recorded in a timely manner. The notification was effective and we were able to resolve the issue. Ms. MacLachlan was very professional and responded to our request quickly and efficiently. We would not hesitate to use her services in the future.
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09 Mar, 2018 by John
I hired this attorney, paid her requested fee in TOTAL at first meeting, $1000 Dollars!. I was told it would be a one-time flat fee and so states our contract. I did not get the professional representation she promised and after pressing for results she proceeded to drop her representation of my case with the court. She never took a written note at any of our several meetings in person in her office. I had to hire another competent attorney who handled my divorce the correct way and in a timely manner! Near the end of our relationship she asked me for more money. I have documentation.
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11 Aug, 2016 by Lori
Attorney MacLachlan is my attorney and got my money from divorce settlement from several years ago. She did the necessary paperwork and got payments started for me. She really cares about serving her clients. I would highly recommend her to anyone
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11 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Bad experienced with this lawyer.
Not recommend it to friends and neighbors.
No tricks for the business please...
Thank U
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16 Oct, 2023 by Leslie edwards
Ms. Banks was my attorney starting in January 2011 and represented me for several years from that point, through more than one custody battle. My case was extremely complicated and convoluted. Page definitely did her homework and took all the extra steps to fight my case. She even came in and watched some public cases that could have affected my case, in order to be fully prepared to fight for me. It was a long, hard battle, but we came out on top in the end, and Page played a vital role in that. I 10/10 recommend her as an attorney.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Did not tell me i was divorced until after i had used medical insurance, resulting in a large bill not being covered. Sent property division paperwork to the wrong branch of the military.
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20 May, 2022 by Anonymous
She never let him know what was going on. He even showed up at court because he was not notified it was canceled. He missed a day of work and she apologized but she was expensive and he would've been better of with a cheap lawyer that took time to explain and cared about their client. I don't recommend her.
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10 Apr, 2019 by Paul
Going through a very tumultuous and contested divorce, I had to fire two previous counsels because they were not listening and acting upon my demands. With less than 2 months before mediation and trial, Ms. Alexander worked tirelessly to ensure she was very familiar with my case and had to play "catch-up" because my previous counsel did not submit crucial documents in a timely manner nor provided the due-diligence and technical expertise that I was paying for. Without a doubt, anyone going through a contested divorce needs Ms. Amy Alexander's methodical and technical approach to resolve their divorce. When I met Ms. Alexander, I referenced my scenario as "we're in the 4th quarter with 2 minutes left and I need a miracle". She delivered!!! This isn't a bunch of hyperbole, she literally save me thousands of dollars in alimony and child support. Finally, she is one hell-of a meditator who knows the law.
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23 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Attorney Amy N. Alexander helped us with our private adoption of our daughter. She was thorough, and kind and has the best intentions of everyone she works with. She works well in the legal system and well with Child Services in Huntsville, Alabama and knows her stuff.
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25 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
She was rude, unprofessional, and practiced poor ethics. She has a bad attitude, and seems very entitled does not follow directions also does not have a good demeanor with most family court judges in Madison County. She works for one of the big name on the door guys but that still doesn’t guarantee the quality of her work.
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12 Aug, 2021 by Teresa
I naively went to Amanda Canupp for my divorce (2017). I told her about the abuse I suffered. Physical, emotional, and mental abuse. I've come to learn, after firing her for later services (2021) that all she did was put my case in a que/ on a conveyer belt without dedicating any personal focus or attention to my case or custody scheduling. I've come to learn that my ex should not have 50/50 custody with me, and because the case settled, there is nothing I can currently do. It should have been done right the first time.
Four years later, I need the help of my attorney to file a contempt charge. Not only does she ignore my requests, but my ex-husband filed one, because Amanda blatantly ignored my request, I was not able to file my counter in time. She WASTED hours and weeks and money. I would call and/or email and receive no response for over one week, multiple times, during a time I was in great need and paying for her services. This happened on many occasions. Her excuse when I got her on the phone was that I was not at the head of her cue, and she assured me that when my case came up, I would be the priority. This is non-sense, and her lack of dedication and delays caused me to incur more expenses and I was not able to take the actions I was paying for her to assist me with. I fired her, humorously enough, she emailed me back within 30 minutes, and 'told' me we would "discuss it tomorrow", as if I were a child. I did call the next day, and gave my complaints. We talked for about 45 minutes, not at my request. Guess what.... she charged me for that phone call to. She works under a respected name in Huntsville, AL, which is why I hired her, but she is not a advocate for her client. The money I invested in her services for my contempt $6,500 (in 2021), was money wasted, but was still obligated to payed. I went on to another attorney, and my case was resolved with LESS cost and a positive affect. If I had stayed with Canupp, I would have been out $12,000 and a negative final impact to my case. I am certain. Lanier Ford should reimburse the $6,500 I paid this firm for my contempt case, but if I called, i'm sure they'd charge me for that too. I am a single mother, educated, was going through difficulties in my life and received no respect from this attorney.
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01 Nov, 2019 by Steve
Amanda picked up my case when my prior lawyer abruptly closed. She reviewed and revised my filing including pleadings and QDRO. She made improvements and resolved all of my concerns in same business week. Her charges were minimal and her services were outstanding. Had I started with Amanda, I likely could have closed my case in half the time at half the cost.
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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.
