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31 May, 2024 by Alyce swisher
Tess was kind, patient, helpful, and open to any and all questions my parents or I had! As my parents were healing she did not push them but appropriately supported them to get the information needed to close their case. I would recommend Tess again and again to anyone if they found themselves in need of her services. You and your loved ones will be in great hands.
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13 Jun, 2022 by Ronald
Joan was very p[rofessional in ability to make sure I understood what was before me and what all could happen during this process. Her words were soft and made plain. She did not push me one way or another she left it up to me on my direction.
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15 May, 2022 by Laura warmke
Joan is amazing! I would definitely recommend her. The whole process of going through a divorce is very stressful, but Joan gave great advice and made the process go as smoothly and effortlessly as possible. She is wonderful, and I am very grateful for her help and expertise!
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.7
15 Reviews
26 Feb, 2025 by Joe howard
I had hired a previous attorney who was extremely expensive. He did a terrible job on my case. I found Gary and hired him and Gary was reasonably affordable and he was on top of everything even for the things after my case was resolved. Highly recommend
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20 Feb, 2025 by Armando barahona
Acabo de llamar para preguntar sobre un caso civil , le pregunté si habla español y me cortó la llamada de una . Poca ética
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07 Jan, 2025 by Techaircraft
Introducing the TechAircraft Education App, your first choice for exam preparation and qualification! Our platform offers a powerful test series, an simple search and selection feature, and everything you need—all on a single screen. With the app, you can take mock tests, track your progress, and access detailed reports and solutions. The reports also include a leaderboard to compare your performance with top scorers. Plus, enjoy multiple language support so you can choose the language according to you.
Website : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app.smartlearning.techaircrafteducation&hl=en_IN
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21 Jul, 2022 by Justin
Yetunde was responsive to my initial request. She communicated her time frames of delivering, and answered any questions I had. She was consistently Kind, professional, down to earth, and timely throughout our time working together.
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21 Jul, 2022 by Robert
Going through a divorce is very hard. So speaking with the right attorney is needed. From the initial consultation, my attorney has been with me every step of the way. From the paperwork to zoom calls, I've never felt like I was going through this alone. If you're looking for an attorney who has compassion and empathy, look no further. I'm grateful for your assistance.
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11 Nov, 2021 by Kristen
Attorney Okunade Aird is amazing at her job! She is so caring and is sure to explain everything in a way you understand. She assured us through the process that she would take great care of us and she most certainly did!! I had no idea what was involved or where to start for a legal name change and she facilitated it with such ease! You will not be disappointed with your representation in going with Attorney Aird! I've already referred her to friends for similar issues/cases!
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01 Nov, 2022 by Emory
Kate Flood and her team are amazing. She helped me legally change my name and gender marker. By myself, this would've been a daunting task, but Kate Flood made the process completely painless. She really delivered a life saving service to me. Thank you Kate
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22 Feb, 2022 by Lee
Kate made getting my name and gender marker changed so simple. I will recommend her to all my friends moving forward for legal help. I'm thankful she made a daunting task so easy.
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25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Kate and her team helped me navigate through the initial divorce and through subsequent filings. Kate helped me understand what to expect throughout the process, and she was right every time. She’s dedicated to her profession, and is accepting honest clients to represent! She helped educate me on all of the expectations of agreements and how to communicate as best as possible with my ex. Don’t hesitate to contact Kate. Be patient- These things take time. She cares about you and your family, and will help you understand everything!
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07 Apr, 2017 by Timothy nolan
Romy was hired to help represent me through a heavy custody battle. As a father, in the state of Indiana, I had already fought the uphill battle and lost with a previous attorney. However, when I met with Romy and team, it was clear we had a path to success albeit several obstabcles in the way. Romy was able to guide me and my family through the process with thought, care and determination. I literally thought there was no hope, but instead, Romy was able to dictate the pace of everything, manage accordingly and quite literally destroy the competition. The balance of which was a decision from the bench, which I might add, is rather unheard of in custody cases. In that same vein, Romy was able to secure my daughters safety through full legal and primarr physical custody awarded to me, Dad.
If it were for Romy, my daughters safety would be in question on a daily basis, but instead, we can rest easy. This is all thanks to Romy.
With all that said, if you need a lawyer who will fight, truly fight, and not give just lip service. This is your guy.
Romy and his team are some of the finest, most professional folks I have ever met. They are in all aspects of their practice, above reproach.
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21 Apr, 2016 by Richard
Romy was quick to jump in with good advice and was able to find the best the solution right away. Selling it to others involved was the real pay off for us and the outcome we wanted. Excellent to work with.
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21 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I met Mr. Elswerky when I hired him to expunge an arrest record for my son. I was very angry that police arrested my son for no arrestable reason. He was visiting a fraternity brother when police knocked on the door. His frat brother refused to answer on the grounds that police didn't have a warrant, which is his right. One police officer stayed at the front door while the other went and got a warrant. Frat brother opened the door and everyone inside was arrested. There were several young men in the apartment. Prosecutor didn't prosecute b/c there was nothing to prosecute, but my son ended up with an arrest record. I suppose the warrant could have been appealed, but when prosecutor didn't move forward we thought it best just to seek expungement. Needless to say I am still angry at the police conduct and can only hope for karma for them and their families. Anyway, back to Mr. Elswerky, who filed the proper paperwork, set up a hearing for expungement. My son and I met him at the courthouse to attend the hearing. We waited approximately 2 hours for the judge and prosecutor to start, as the prosecutor was busy with another case in another courtroom. In those 2 hours we go to know more of Mr. Elswerky. He explained what was going to happen in the courtroom and my son's future concerning the expungement. When all this happened my son was a sophomore on college. He is going to graduate next month and then off to med school. I hope this review helps those in need of a criminal lawyer. I also hope we will never need Mr. Elswerky, but just in case, I would definitely hire again.
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27 Nov, 2018 by Randi
I am currrently dealing with my very first CHINS case through DCS and ms Pamela was appointed to me by the grace of God. She held my hand and guided me to treatment and now she’s fighting for DCS to pay for all of my medicine that my own Medicaid won’t cover. I just know in my heart that with her help I’m going to have my baby home by our next court date!!! ;) I would most defiantly recommend her to any addict that wants to take the right steps to have their babies back at home.
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27 Nov, 2018 by Randi
I am currrently dealing with my very first CHINS case through DCS and ms Pamela was appointed to me by the grace of God. She held my hand and guided me to treatment and now she’s fighting for DCS to pay for all of my medicine that my own Medicaid won’t cover. I just know in my heart that with her help I’m going to have my baby home by our next court date!!! ;) I would most defiantly recommend her to any addict that wants to take the right steps to have their babies back at home.
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09 Dec, 2016 by Orlando valadez salas
I highly recommend Pamela,
After going through a tough divorce pamela has taken my case to a different level ,and took it to a personal level (good way)
Pam will sit down with you and explain everything step by step,
and if you have any questions she will efficiently respond accordingly , very professional,
the payments were affordable and reasonable. very important for most people going through divorce. affordable and efficient.
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17 Nov, 2021 by Dan
Kirsten Ess takes no prisoners when it comes to advocating for her client's rights. Not only has she provided me with amazing legal representation, but she has also represented a number of my family members and my closest friends when they found themselves in need of legal advice and or representation. Kirsten took the time to fully understand my circumstances and she made sure that I understood every possible option available to me. She did not take the path of least resistance like so many other lawyers are prone to do. I pray I never need a lawyer again, but if I or anyone close to me does, I will certainly reach out to Kirsten to save the day!
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19 Oct, 2021 by Robert
Ms. Ess came through like a true champion during the entire process. I tried to keep a semi-positive outlook during the first couple of months while locked up...but once she went into action, I was out in less than a week...and with NO probation! I can't thank her enough. With her years of experience in criminal law and felony drug court, she knows how to handle even difficult cases like mine. Thanks again! I hope never to need her for this type of service, but if I do, I will definitely hire her again.
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14 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Mrs. Ess has been my attorney for several years. She spent most of her career working with the public defenders office and her experience is unparalleled. I couldn't begin to think of hiring another attorney. I've seen Mrs. Ess win cases other attorneys weren't willing to even tackle. Once she's taken your case you'll have the best in your corner.
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07 Nov, 2017 by Jylea
Ms.Stevens doesnt look at her job as just a paycheck! She genuinely cares about her clients and really has their best interest in mind when walking into the courtroom! Having her as my attorney, I never went into court nervous or worried!!! Thank you Julia!!
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22 Sep, 2016 by Geoff
Julia was great to work with. She was thorough, timely, and didn't break the bank. She did fabulous work, and was quick to object to straying off topic by the opposing party's council. She knows her stuff, and is smart about approach and tactics. Would highly recommend her services.
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30 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
After a horrible experience with other council I found Ms. Stevens to be very helpful and efficient. She was able to get things completed properly in a very timely matter. I would recommend her services to anyone looking for representation.
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11 Jan, 2025 by Tim o'brien
Scott was very easy to work with. Punctual on getting back to me with questions I had. Explained the legal terms in a way that I could understand them. I definitely appreciate his help.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Jacob bloomberg
08 Dec, 2024 by Burcak suchovsky
12 Dec, 2024 by Jacob bloomberg
29 Nov, 2024 by Lori piontek
When I called Rowe and Hamilton after a rear end collision which totaled my truck, Tim Rowe took my case when few would, even with pre-existing conditions.
Amy Van Ostrand took my case and handled it for a couple of years with professionalism and dedication. While I navigated the medical mess, she kept me regularly informed so I wasn't in a state of confusion even while I worked to get better.
She fought to get the best settlement for me and my creditors; even from my own insurance company!
I will definitely be referring others to Rowe and Hamilton. I couldn't be more satisfied with Amy and all who worked with her!
Thank you!
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26 Nov, 2024 by Jason dumas jr
Mr.Hayes and his team at the firm are simply fantastic.
Not only did he win my case but he and Ms.Coleman made it a smooth process!
Thank you very much.
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13 Feb, 2025 by Kelly stowers
Great office! I got the help that I needed so quickly, and was kept updated with every step of the process. I really appreciate the assistance, and communication!
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02 Feb, 2025 by Sara
Excellent service. His work speaks for itself. Helped me when nobody else would take the case and he did an amazing job and won.
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18 Nov, 2024 by J bee
Mr.David worked Appeal for my friend. Unfortunately the appeal is not successful but I can see that he work his best and he also get it done faster. He reply fast whenever I asked him something and his assistant Katy is also very good with reply and answered every questions. He also helped me finding PCR lawyer for the case, which is really helpful for me. Currently I am working PCR with one of the lawyer he recommended.
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13 Feb, 2025 by Kelly stowers
Great office! I got the help that I needed so quickly, and was kept updated with every step of the process. I really appreciate the assistance, and communication!
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02 Feb, 2025 by Sara
Excellent service. His work speaks for itself. Helped me when nobody else would take the case and he did an amazing job and won.
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18 Nov, 2024 by J bee
Mr.David worked Appeal for my friend. Unfortunately the appeal is not successful but I can see that he work his best and he also get it done faster. He reply fast whenever I asked him something and his assistant Katy is also very good with reply and answered every questions. He also helped me finding PCR lawyer for the case, which is really helpful for me. Currently I am working PCR with one of the lawyer he recommended.
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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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09 Jan, 2019 by Tonya tidd
She made my calls a priority. Her follow up was stellar. She sent follow up emails after talking to us after the court hearings to make sure we understood what exactly happened in court and what to expect next. Her fee structure was well explained and fair. She has a lot of experience and that was obvious with her knowledge of case law and just the law in general. It is very hard to be heard when you are JUST kinship placement in our DCS system. Mrs. Boyd successfully helped us in this process. She is prompt, prepared, and ready for whatever is thrown at her, she is very fast on her feet. She was confident, yet graceful and well respected in the Juvenile court. We are so thankful for the referral and would recommend Mrs. Boyd highly.
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04 May, 2018 by Felicia
Elaine was a referral from a friend. I'd never been in court before and, I was so upset and afraid when I received my summons in the mail. Elaine was prompt and reassuring. She worked meticulously to find out as much information as she could that pertained to my case. She consulted with my child's teacher, his therapist, and others to make sure that what was in the best interest of my child would be the outcome in this case. Myself and the other parent had a horrible relationship when this all started . We were required through the courts to complete a course and Elaine wanted feedback. She asked me questions, in hopes that I'd learned something that could be applied to my specific family situation. I won in court, myself and the other parent have a much better relationship now, and most importantly my child is happy. I had no hope in the beginning of this case and by the end of it all my family was free from all of the strife and disappointment from past years.
I'd hope that no one I know finds themselves in the same situation I was in but if so I know how I can help. I'll refer them to Elaine. She's trustworthy, she cares, and she gets results. Thank you so much Elaine. You have been a huge blessing in my life and I'll never forget what you did for my family.
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13 Jan, 2014 by Samuel
I met Elaine in 2003 when I married her niece. At the time I had no rights to my 3 daughters and was constantly fighting my ex-wife lies etc. I am proud to say that I now thanks to the hard work of Elaine have custody of my daughters. She saw through all the lies and painted a plain picture for the judge to see. Because her great attention to detail EVERY lie my ex-wife told, Elaine had the truth in black and white. My ex didn't give up easily, we went all the way to the Court of Appeal and I am proud to say because of Elaine, I have my daughters and my ex-wife can not use anything to hinder our relationship. THANK YOU ELAINE. WHAT CAN I SAY I OWE YOU SO MUCH. I HAVE PEACE OF MIND.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Johnny “chavez”
23 Jun, 2023 by Wendy sweeney
So far so good!
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30 Apr, 2023 by Summer
04 Nov, 2024 by Jenelle orta
03 Nov, 2024 by Dana mosley
Melissa helped me with a divorce settlement modification. She and her staff were prompt, courteous, and communicated with me through the entire process. I am very pleased with the service I received and would definitely recommend them. Thank you so much!
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01 Nov, 2024 by Roberta mathis
We appreciate NicK working with us to complete the Pre-Nuptial Agreement. He promptly answered our questions and met with us in a timely fashion catching us both while we were in town.
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29 Nov, 2024 by Dreaming nirvana
Dismissive takes months then upon appointments shes in a delayed call over my time slot putting off another appointment, pushing me out of time limits to get justice for 4th time and never got any invite for the last appointment. Tried to give this person a real chance and all I got was wrong time blown off confusion excuses (cloaked humiliation) even all the patience to the moon and she failed me. I fear my life is now on the line and I don't recomend anyone be failed by justice or translators of it in this way. Being retraimatized over and over again causes harm. Incredibly disappointed and disgusted to comply and be blown off when this affects so many beings on mother earth. I wish she had upstood for the oaths to do the right thing. Not even a call back no justice injustice served.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Theresa wright
Amber was very informative, professional, supportive, and answered all the questions that I had. Her staff was punctual, informative, and very friendly. If in need of an employment attorney, she's the one!!
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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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25 Feb, 2025 by Neal taflinger
Wendy Kaufman helped me navigate through the two hardest events of my life and prevented a great deal of harm from being done to my family in the process. I hope I never have to retain Becker Bouwkamp Walker, PC again, but if I need family law counsel in the future, they will be my first call.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Ronald breymier
My interaction with Becker Bouwkamp Walker, PC has been on issues impacting Indiana's manufactured housing and recreation vehicle industries. I have found this firm, in particular, Carl Becker to be exceptional in quality representation on complex issues.
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17 Nov, 2024 by Chris w
Biz was amazing to work with. She was extremely knowledgeable, responsive, and provided excellent guidance during my divorce process. She was very transparent and honest which I appreciated. I would highly recommend using her.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Jazheel hannah sangalang
Some of the nicest people I’ve ever met. They did an awesome job on helping out my case! They respond to my messages and questions right away. Would rate them 10 star if I can!
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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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13 Feb, 2025 by Kelly stowers
Great office! I got the help that I needed so quickly, and was kept updated with every step of the process. I really appreciate the assistance, and communication!
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02 Feb, 2025 by Sara
Excellent service. His work speaks for itself. Helped me when nobody else would take the case and he did an amazing job and won.
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18 Nov, 2024 by J bee
Mr.David worked Appeal for my friend. Unfortunately the appeal is not successful but I can see that he work his best and he also get it done faster. He reply fast whenever I asked him something and his assistant Katy is also very good with reply and answered every questions. He also helped me finding PCR lawyer for the case, which is really helpful for me. Currently I am working PCR with one of the lawyer he recommended.
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4.6
11 Reviews
3.6
13 Reviews
26 Oct, 2023 by Richard rodriguez
Nunca responden el teléfono
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15 Mar, 2023 by H d
Honestly I really wish I found someone else. I had a very simple child support case and it still cost me $3000. I highly doubt she actually spent 17 hours working on my case. We didn't even go to court, we came to an agreement. And Vanessa nor her employees were much help when my case was over. You have a question? Be careful if you send an email that gets a one sentence response, it will cost you $82 for something that took 2 minutes. As a single mom, I asked if I could take partial payments and got charged $82. Overall very disappointed. I am not getting back pay like I was supposed to be and now it is all up to me to figure it out on my own. Missing out on $600 because this lady didn't pay attention to what she was doing FOR MY CHILD. Also I was never told that I should sign up for direct deposit with the child support office, I thought after paying 3 grand there would be some guidance. I was wrong. Will never recommend this office. Please go elsewhere.
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16 Oct, 2022 by Ashley plath
21 Mar, 2024 by Terry long
Maria matters represented my X-wife in divorce proceedings. I almost felt sorry for my x with her choice of attorney. Notice I said ALMOST. She’s incompetent at practicing law and loves to tell you what you want to hear.
I wouldn’t recommend her to represent anyone in traffic court much less anything of substance. Do your research on her, you’ll thank me later!
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20 Dec, 2023 by Robin lynn
Just had so questions.
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06 Aug, 2022 by Mohammed rajabi
Great Attorney .... Thanks
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16 Jan, 2025 by Henry naughton
23 Dec, 2024 by Luis martinez
18 Dec, 2024 by Nicholas kurz
Unfortunately, I found myself in need of a family attorney. Fortunately, I retained Allison. Allison is an amazing attorney who exceeded my expectations. Knowledgeable, communicative and compassionate about practicing family law. If I, or anyone I know, am in need of a family attorney, Allison is the attorney to retain.
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11 Apr, 2022 by Brian
Rachel and Natalie were amazing. They worked with my needs and helped keep me focused during a difficult divorce. I was pleased to have them in my corner.
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06 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Rachel represented me in my sons paternity case. She was a such a blessing during tan extremely confusing, hard and sad time. I was postpartum, stressing out and had a million and one questions. Rachel made time and answered each one of my questions honestly and professionally, even when it wasn’t what I wanted to hear; she was extremely consistent, helpful and informative.
The office staff (Nicole specifically) would respond and follow up when Rachel was out of town and was very helpful as well.
I am very grateful for Rachel and Hocker Law. I would highly recommend them to anyone. You get what you pay for and beyond with this firm.
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19 May, 2021 by Kimberly
Working with this law firm has helped me reach my goal. The attorney was very fast responsive. Rachel East cleared all my doubts with no hesitation.
Very professional, patient and responsible. She keeps you updated with your case and you don't have to be behind her like with other attorneys.
I would highly recommend this law firm with no doubt.
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07 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Giving Jane 2 stars as she has the potential to be a good lawyer however when she represented me in 2022 as a Keffer-Hirschauer attorney I was disappointed on many occasions . Jane completed a lot of work last minute, which might have been the result of Keffer-Hirschauer overloading their attorneys with too many cases. Regarding spousal maintenance, Jane wasted months before asking the court for a hearing on spousal maintenance, and Jane did not follow through with the request once filed. Jane recommended signing certain financial agreements without communicating the possibility that future hearing dates may be rescheduled or extended, which lead to me being left without funding for many months. Lastly, a few weeks before a scheduled mediation and final hearing date Jane was either fired from Keffer-Hirschauer or left Keffer-Hirschauer on her own, (I have not been given a reason for her departure from either side) which then extended my mediation and final hearing, left me in a desperate financial situation and resulted in an exorbitant amount of legal fee's as I had to start over with a new lawyer.
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02 Mar, 2019 by Stephanie rettig
Ms. DeBrota's services were invaluable to me in my particular situation. I was very satisfied with the affordable fees and professional attention she gave to my case. I highly recommend her for her knowledge in gender law cases.
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06 Nov, 2017 by Frank julian
When lawyers need advice about employment and discrimination cases, they trust Amy DeBrota to have the answer. Highly recommended.
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27 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Very bad service I was not happy and she gave in didn’t even fight at all …seems like it was all about the money
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05 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Nicole to help with family law matter. She showed up for important dates but was unresponsive to emails, calls and texts any other time. Sometimes I wouldn't hear from her for a month. She seems extremely busy with her personal life which is fine but she shouldn't be practicing if she doesn't have the availability to help her clients
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11 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Nicole to represent me in a legal matter. I am very dissatisfied with her services because of her lack of knowledge & experience. On multiple occasions it took Nicole days & sometimes weeks just to respond to a text, email, or phone call. She works a full time job & tries to practice law on the side which interfered on the time she could work on my case. She caused unnecessary stress on me & my family because at times she really didn’t know what she was doing & got in way over her head. I would definitely recommend anybody to do your research & hire a knowledgeable attorney with years of experience. Overall i think Nicole was a nice person & tried, but I my only intentions was to hire a knowledgeable attorney that can get the job done with minimum stress which she did not do.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
First off, he advertises a free consultation and then he charges you. He acted like he was doing me a favor by only charging me $200 for my consultation which was 30 minutes. His normal fee is $395 an hour so he actually charged me more per minute than his hourly rate! He had absolutely no bedside manners. When I would ask a question or say something like "I'm not sure this matters but..." he would respond with "Nope, don't care" or "Doesn't matter." He didn't help me at all to understand the process. I understand lawyers aren't suppose to be your therapist but going through a divorce is an emotional process and it wouldn't hurt to have a little bit of empathy. I left his office in near tears and more confusion than what I went in with. Would not recommend going to him!
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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.
