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08 Jul, 2024 by U m
Mr. Telloyan and staff were great and very patient. I have a very crazy schedule because of my job and he was willing to meet with me after hours and he broke everything down for me to understand. I am very glad I was referred to his office.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Patrick burns
Boughter Law Firm will aggressively handle your case to get what you deserve! Be sure to contact them when an accident occurs!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Latoria gonzalez
Miracle Worker
Mark was professional, personable, and efficient. He resolved an issue that had been lingering for years in just one week.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Leshay h
Matt Conrad and his law office were good to me and friendly. He helped me with my first ever bankruptcy and made me feel at ease. Very professional. I highly recommend. Matt also has a great view in his office as a perk! And they validate your parking!
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02 Jun, 2024 by A
Randy and his AMAZING team helped me recover after hands down the worst day of my life. I was involved in a automobile accident in 2015. I had broken 46 bones, severed my spinal cord, had a collapsed lung, and a brain bleed. His team completely handled everything from a legal point of view. He even sent out private investigators. He came to my house more than an hour from his office many times. He recovered 1 million dollars in a settlement offer for me and my family. He will go above and beyond and do it with grace and style! ❤️
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30 May, 2024 by Phil pettigrew
After calling and dealing with several attorneys I came across Conrad Legal LLC. I cannot recommend Matthew Conrad highly enough. Matthew is, without a doubt, the most patient and understanding lawyer I have ever met. His deep knowledge of the law is impressive, but what truly sets him apart is his ability to explain complex legal concepts in a way that makes them accessible and understandable. He takes the time to ensure you fully grasp your situation and all possible options, empowering you to make informed decisions about your case.
Matthew's genuine desire to help people is evident in every interaction. He is one of the few remaining lawyers who is not driven by money, but by a sincere commitment to his clients' well-being. If you are struggling with debt and need someone to guide you through the bankruptcy process, Matthew is, without a doubt, the best choice in the state of Indiana. His dedication to achieving the best possible outcome for his clients is unwavering, and he will work tirelessly to ensure your success.
In addition to the exceptional legal service, Conrad Legal's office boasts a beautiful view of downtown, providing a serene and professional atmosphere that makes an already stressful situation a little more bearable. If you need a bankruptcy lawyer who is knowledgeable, compassionate, and truly committed to helping you, look no further than Matthew Conrad at Conrad Legal LLC.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Michelle hilty
David and Mary were both exceptional!
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18 Jun, 2024 by Chuck wright
David is an exceptional attorney and would recommend him to anyone looking for representation. Very good about responding in a timely manner to questions or concerns for his clients.
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16 May, 2024 by Teach'em howtodougie
Alan is not only a righteous human being. He's a damn good attorney and he's cocky about it too.
I owe this man my life and he took my case for close to nothing and he made a special judge and I say special not that he's handicap but he was brought in as a special judge to ruin me and this was 25 years ago and I haven't had him since in a criminal case I haven't needed him because he made me a better person. My name is Curtis ready and I'm and I'm a testimony to what success is and what being down and without a soul to listen to me or help me that man house the conscience and tenacity of an archangel.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Michelle hilty
David and Mary were both exceptional!
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18 Jun, 2024 by Chuck wright
David is an exceptional attorney and would recommend him to anyone looking for representation. Very good about responding in a timely manner to questions or concerns for his clients.
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16 May, 2024 by Teach'em howtodougie
Alan is not only a righteous human being. He's a damn good attorney and he's cocky about it too.
I owe this man my life and he took my case for close to nothing and he made a special judge and I say special not that he's handicap but he was brought in as a special judge to ruin me and this was 25 years ago and I haven't had him since in a criminal case I haven't needed him because he made me a better person. My name is Curtis ready and I'm and I'm a testimony to what success is and what being down and without a soul to listen to me or help me that man house the conscience and tenacity of an archangel.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Michelle hilty
David and Mary were both exceptional!
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18 Jun, 2024 by Chuck wright
David is an exceptional attorney and would recommend him to anyone looking for representation. Very good about responding in a timely manner to questions or concerns for his clients.
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16 May, 2024 by Teach'em howtodougie
Alan is not only a righteous human being. He's a damn good attorney and he's cocky about it too.
I owe this man my life and he took my case for close to nothing and he made a special judge and I say special not that he's handicap but he was brought in as a special judge to ruin me and this was 25 years ago and I haven't had him since in a criminal case I haven't needed him because he made me a better person. My name is Curtis ready and I'm and I'm a testimony to what success is and what being down and without a soul to listen to me or help me that man house the conscience and tenacity of an archangel.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Silvana
05 Sep, 2024 by Jean tantsman
I've worked with Eugene for many years now and whenever a legal question comes up - I get a complete and detailed answer. I referred others to him and everyone is satisfied with the work. If the question is outside of their area of expertise - I get either a referral or where to look. Can't recommend them highly enough.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Iana shivrinskaia
Very happy with resolution of my immigration cases. Attention to details is very important to me and this has been followed every time. I cannot recommend this office enough.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Jeanine hill
I just wanna say never been in trouble first time and it was bad for me this guy here is the best I didn't even go to court got it taken care of and really made everything okay I would literally call him fir anything he is the best
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31 Aug, 2024 by Maya dent
The best lawyer ever!
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25 Jun, 2024 by Marissa paris
John is very straightforward and we fully appreciated his knowledge and attention to our situation. He helped my husband with his grandfather’s estate after he passed and evicting someone who was absolutely terrible to deal with. Got paperwork filed for us same day we met! All in all, we were happy with the outcome.
We recommend him and will use his services again. Thanks John!
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11 Nov, 2023 by Chanse eastes
Very professional
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21 Aug, 2023 by Charity schabo
Best representation. Very pleased with the work Joe Lewis has done for me.
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12 Jun, 2023 by Lisa reno
23 Jun, 2023 by Wendy sweeney
So far so good!
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30 Apr, 2023 by Summer
07 Feb, 2023 by Vicki jones
Always responded to my questions in a polite & positive manner
Was very helpful in helping me understand the process
Would definitely recommend him & use his services again if I ever needed any legal help
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26 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Was an extremely unprofessional atmosphere. Was definably not a good choice. Rushed to complete and please choose a different mediator. Would not use again.
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04 Dec, 2020 by Gil
A very honest and reasonably priced attorney! He is very very knowledgeable on the law and the best way to proceed with your case! I’ve used his service multiple times because his service has been second to none for me! I highly recommend him for all of his specialty services!
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08 Feb, 2019 by Andrew
Travis handled a bankruptcy for me and was just excellent to work with. He returned calls and or text messages in a timely manner. I alway felt he was there for me when I need him. He really guides you through the process and makes you feel comfortable. Everything went smooth as I could ask for. Highly recommend him to any and all my friends and family.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Brian
I hired Scott for a termination of child support court hearing. Court hearing kept getting postponed for various reasons. He ended up helping me handle the situation without the hearing. When I called and he wasn't in, he always called back as soon as possible. I also consulted him for advice on parenting time issues a few years back, he gave solid, practical advice. I recommend Scott and his staff.
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31 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
How anybody can represent someone dead set on keeping a child away from someone willing and able to be there is the 2nd cruelest thing you can do. The 1st being his client, who wishes to use a child as a weapon and lie lie lie about everything.
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21 Sep, 2022 by Isaac
Mr. Bieniek assisted in filing a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. He was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and conscientious. If you want a lawyer who supports their community, definitely consider Mr. Bieniek!
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.6
142 Reviews
13 Jun, 2024 by Bradley curtis
05 May, 2024 by Nicole winters
Amazing and professional law office!
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07 Mar, 2024 by Tara crowley
08 Oct, 2024 by Veronica johnson
It’s a joy to have someone who is on your side to be truly for the best interest of you! She’s straight to the point and very consistent! I highly recommend her to represent you.
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02 May, 2024 by Jacob cable
I was screwed over by Amber Boyd law and I was protecting black people from systemic rascism that by her screwing over my case and abandoning me, but keeping my $5,000 says enough. I can not stand when black people do not stand up for black people. That is sad. She was the worst attorney I hired throughout the process. In my opinion she joined the harassment, discrimination and retaliation by her actions and her lawfirm. Also refused a refund. I was offered $100k then hired her offered $5k and her assistant was promoted away after altering inaccurate dates on my claims and refusing to confront police retaliation related to January 6th 2021 mini insurrection throughout 5 Indiana locations. All and all I would say run!!! Far away!!! Hire a different lawyer, especially for discrimination cases.
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02 May, 2024 by Brandon hicks
Amber provided me with an excellent consultation. She is very knowledgeable and incredibly professional. I would highly recommend her services to anyone looking for an attorney.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Holynootnoot
Felt bad he has a lot of 1 stars so I gave him 5 stars
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03 Oct, 2023 by Jayne joseph
Mr. Spreen yes is a very busy man. However, he got me cleared of 20 charges. Just he also is a free county attorney so it's a lot of cases js
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31 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Things started off absolutely fantastic between Emily and I. She was kind and informative and I felt a relief having her on my side because I literally had no one to help me fight a narcissist that didn't care about the family he abandoned. But then one wrong, albeit accidental issue in court and she abandoned me at my time of need. I misspoke about something that I truly made a mistake on and explained that thoroughly to her. Everyone involved understood, even the opposing side that it was a mistake but Instead of trying to work with me or trying to understand that I would never purposely jeopardize my own case, she withdrew from my case. No chance to talk to her about it, not even a good luck as she snuck out the back door The horrible thing is that she threw me onto the plate of a completely inexperienced and non-existent attorney that she recommended. My new attorney showed up late to court, blew her breath in exasperation at the judge and doesn't return a single phone call or email. Even though Emily made it sound like she was going to be able to take over for her. Emily abandoned me for all of the wrong reasons. And hurt my family's chances at a better life after being abused by my narcissist ex.
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07 Nov, 2022 by Mel
My case was forgotten for many months in the office. Waster of retainers for emails with no single court hearing!
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25 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Rex listened to all issues and paid attention to details to ensure I was represented to his full potential in court. I am very pleased with the outcome from my case.
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23 Nov, 2020 by David
Mr. Patterson has been my lawyer since the middle of this year, and he has been on top of all my legal needs. He has been very professional in dealing with the opposing side and counsel and been extremely efficient in getting accomplished what we set out to, step by step. Two of those examples that stick out to me are 1. Creating an environment conducive of making my ex fiancée move out of my house without incident and without having to file an eviction. And 2. He also was successful in the retrieval of my ex’s very expensive engagement ring, which her side had been unwilling to give back.
He has been with me and had a plan since day 1, and his professional staff has always been there to answer my questions and give timely updates about where we are at in the process. We have had a lot of crud thrown our way, but Mr. Patterson has handled all the turns in the litigation with ease and made me feel comfortable that I am in good hands through the entire process. Not only that, but he always has been more than efficient with his time and charged very minimal to me for the hours he has put into the case. He is a reasonable attorney and will give you a fair shake and honest answer.
The suit will continue into 2021, as we are set for further trial aspects, such as mediation and further, but even without a known outcome on this matter, I am very much happy with my choice in counsel and would very much recommend him to anyone who might need some consultation with their legal matters. He is truly one of the best, in my honest opinion.
David, Rex Patterson’s client since June 2020
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21 Jul, 2017 by Ashley
The whole team is fantastic! Anytime you call, message or visit them, you leave with all your questions answered. I was fully aware of everything that was going to happen during the hearing, I was informed about what would happen in every scenario after as well. This team, every member, goes above and beyond the call of duty. And they are bi-lingual! I know I would not have gotten done what these guys helped me do. And I was awarded more than i ever imagined. I owe it all to them. If you need a team, because you get the full package, that will help you fight for your family, this is your last stop.
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23 Aug, 2016 by Ade
I hired Ms. Lopez to represent me in my child custody/divorce/child support modification case. The previous attorney I had did not update me regularly, it took days for me to get my calls returned and just made a mess out of my whole case. Hiring Ms. Lopez was the best thing that happened to my case, I finally felt like I was being heard, her paralegal did much more than my previous attorney did. They both did additional research and I am more than satisfied with the result. Her staff are really friendly, they responded to my e-mails/phone calls in a timely manner and hiring Ms. Lopez to represent me was the best thing that happened to my case.
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15 Mar, 2016 by Kevin
Vanessa is an amazing attorney with an incredible staff. She advised me and helped me stay the course when I was ready to just give in and forget everything. She helped get more than I expected from the divorce but most of all she helped me get my daughter. Because of Vanessa and her team I will not be just a weekend dad.
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05 Oct, 2021 by Melissa
Nick was very professional and informative. Got me through a rough spot and i am forever grateful!
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28 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Artusi did a great job on my case. I highly recommend him. He is someone that will fight for you and you will have a great outcome. Pick Mr. Artusi as your lawyer.
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10 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Hired Nick three years ago for a divorce case. Still not divorced, was a hassle to get a hold of him, nothing changed. It's unfortunate that I dumped money into someone for three years that lots of people recommended with no change. Maybe too much on his plate and couldn't take my case. Would not recommend.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Chrissy collins
Helped us from start to finish, responded to questions in a timely manner, was quick to start course of actions and provided counseling along the way. Would highly recommend!!
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09 Mar, 2023 by Ray mcdade-williams
Attorney Bradley Gregory agreed to take my case. He assured me I had a easy case and he could win in court. After, many months, he decided I didn’t have a case. I paid him over a thousand dollars. He agreed to refund some of my money. I have not received a penny of my refund. He is still calling just about every day stating the check is in the mail game. It’s been two weeks of his empty promises of returning my money. I would not do business with him if he was the only attorney in the world. I feel he is not trustworthy. I feel he plays mind games. Be aware, of who and what you are hiring, when he decides to take your case and money.
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22 Feb, 2023 by Brian mcbrady
He was on top of every. He made the whole process easy and stress free.
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06 Dec, 2022 by Chris wright
15 Aug, 2022 by Brian s
05 Feb, 2021 by James bandy
Awesome Attorney. Helped me a ton. Highly recommended.....
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09 May, 2024 by Justin flynn
09 May, 2024 by Kimberly purnell
Elisha was amazing today .. I loved everything about her she was the 💣 bomb. She took our case and didn’t play no games she got straight to it she studied the case and learned it very well. Nora was amazing as well. Elisha I could cry. You put yourself in our shoes and understood the assignment. I thank you a thousand times. I would go to you all over again. It’s hard to find lawyers that really care but you omg I thank God we found you. Hands down you number one In my book 📕.
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08 May, 2024 by Kimberly
when I say Elisha was the bomb on our case. hands down I would hire her again if I had too. she put herself in our shoes and really understood the assignment. She focusses on your case and studies it very well. Nora was amazing as well. I cannot express how happy I was today to experience all the work she has done. I am still so amazed at her work. she put her all into it. wow Elisha. :) Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Good lawyers are so hard to find. it was not just about the money to her. I am crying right now because she was amazing .
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27 Aug, 2024 by Dawn sorenson
Tara was a famtastic lawyer for us in family court. We went to her on a recommendation so I'm paying it forward... Tara is easy & straightforward to work with and a top notch lawyer in the courtroom.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Ds show by rinku
25 Jun, 2024 by Trisha kaczmarek
The kind of attorney you search for forever during a custody battle. Answered my calls at any time of the day, was able to reassure me in the midst of the most stressful situations, and most importantly, put in the effort and time to fight for what is right. Would recommend him to anyone! Thank you Tony!
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27 Jul, 2024 by Dylan stafford
27 Jul, 2024 by Kelly mcdaniel
Michelle guided us through three hearings and we won everytime!
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27 Jul, 2024 by Dana biddle
Michelle is super friendly helpful and understanding
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16 Apr, 2024 by Aaron mitchell
Ryan Guillory just helped me win a small claims lawsuit of almost $10,000! :) Thank you Ryan! I highly recommend Ryan and McNeelyLaw! :)
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06 Oct, 2023 by Brenda crawford
Daivd is amazing very knowledgeable
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31 Aug, 2023 by Frank s
06 Oct, 2023 by Kayla izynski
His receptionist is rude. That lady needs some help. He doesn’t answer or return calls. He also will ignore you for months on end. Don’t trust him considering he’s about as smart as his dumbest client.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Yolanda urias
Best customer service, very professional and very helpful.
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16 Jun, 2023 by Bruce lugo
He's a very overpriced attorney. I got quotes from 3 different attorney's and he was $3,000 over the other's clearly inexperienced I'll pass thank you. I like to work with honest people.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Jessica wickham
Brian is an amazing attorney. He pushed to see the law be upheld. He fought hard to see that we came out on top. Thank again for being awesome at what you do.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Eriks vinters
Great guy, highly recommend!
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24 May, 2024 by Amanda helen wyneken
Mr. Kenninger was very kind and compassionate. He helped me significantly! Highly recommend.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Andrena baughman
16 Jun, 2024 by Try sanity
10 Apr, 2024 by Randy shook
Hated it
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01 Jul, 2024 by Julia partida
Overpriced.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Marcia degraaf buis
Bruce and his staff were fantastic! They worked quickly and efficiently. Highly recommend if you need a family attorney.
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13 Jan, 2024 by Joe hall
3.0
2 Reviews
4.3
89 Reviews
04 Aug, 2024 by Deja hochstetler
I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding service provided by Shilts & Setlak in handling my child support case. From our very first meeting, Michael demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism, knowledge, and compassion.
Navigating the complexities of family law can be overwhelming, but Michael and his team made the process so much easier. They were always available to answer my questions, provided clear and concise explanations of my options, and consistently kept me informed about the progress of my case. Their attention to detail and thorough understanding of family law ensured that my child’s best interests were always the top priority.
I highly recommend Michael Setlak to anyone in need of a family law attorney. Their professionalism, integrity, and client-focused approach make them an exceptional advocate. Thank you, Shilts & Setlak LLC for your unwavering support and for making a challenging time in my life much more manageable!
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01 Jun, 2024 by E. tussing
Richard went above and beyond helping me navigate my case. Would definitely recommend!!
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24 May, 2024 by Patrick lindsay
In my opinion my representation was weak. He barely knew information about my case, barely ever reached out except right before court and never planned or strategized with me. He had a cavalier attitude with the serious matters in my case/life.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Jasper dulin
He had a full understanding of my needs even though it was a complex legal issue involving real-estate, inheritance and legal rights.
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20 Dec, 2023 by Samantha thompson
Danny is a good lawyer and fights for you. We have hired danny 2 times already and would recommend him, actually I recommended him to my sister for her divorce.
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17 Oct, 2023 by Jacob struble
Did an amazing job taking care of an infraction deferral. They were very clear with what they offer, how they handled it, set real expectations, and then they met and exceeded the expectations. 10/10 recommend!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Amanda muir
Caryn is amazing! She navigated me through a tough transition in my life. Thorough, diligent and dedicated to her services and clients. I couldn't have done this without her expertise and reassurance. Highly recommend.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Nathan king
I cannot recommend Caryn highly enough for her exceptional service as a family lawyer. She went above and beyond to ensure the best outcome for both me and my child. Her expertise and dedication were evident throughout the entire process, and she consistently prioritized what was fair and in the best interest of my family. Working with Caryn was a seamless experience.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Drew ramer
Caryn was great. My fiance was going thru some stuff with her ex and she helped us thru all the processes and helped us get the best outcome possible. But more important than that is she was understanding and put my fiancées mind at ease. Hope we don't need a lawyer again but if we do we'll call her.
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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:
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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.
