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04 Oct, 2018 by Chris
If you are looking for an attorney for family law matters Matthew Hunt is the best money can buy. I initially hired Mr. Hunt after I fired another attorney who took my money, did not bother to file divorce paperwork, and would not return my calls or emails. Mr. Hunt did more in the first day of hiring him than the other attorney did in months. It was like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders knowing I now had an attorney I could trust. He was able to reverse the damage that resulted from my previous attorneys’ poor representation. I have been to multiple hearings, mediations, and a deposition with Mr. Hunt. Mr. Hunt’s preparedness was apparent during each of these instances. I’ve had conversations with Mr. Hunt and have been completely surprised when he remembers instances I’ve spoken to him about, emailed him about, and things that happened during prior years. I can truly say that I trust Mr. and his decision-making ability, mainly because he has shown me time and time again the positive results that happen afterwards. Mr. Hunt has been incredible in sorting through all my ex’s lies and making the truth shine especially in the place where it ultimately matters which is the courtroom. My children are now thriving in ways they never have never been able to before because of decisions made during those courtroom appearances and the facts that were able to be made clear by Mr. Hunt. My ex is now writing negative reviews about Mr. Hunt on multiple platforms. Her being so angry and vengeful towards Mr. Hunt is indicative of the excellent work he has done for me and my children. Thank you, Mr. Hunt, having you as my attorney has made my life and the lives of my children much better.
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05 Aug, 2018 by Amy
Mr. Hunt got me thru the most traumatic time of my life. He was accessible to me at all times and went above and beyond to keep me up to date. For part of my divorce I was living in a different state and Mr. Hunt took this in stride and did whatever he had to including getting it approved for me to attend a few of the hearings via phone. He exudes a confidence that really put me at ease.
Would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone!
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26 Apr, 2018 by Josh
Matt personally handled my divorce which involved me dealing with custody of my children and paying of alimony, he also helped navigate me as I was a business owner. I was very firm with Mr. Hunt on what I wanted and he over delivered on every aspect. I get my kids more than I thought I would, I pay less than was estimated, and it was all handled on one day. No one else in their industry is as skilled as this man. Do not let these 1 star reviews say you as they are all written by clients of the other side, when you don't hire the best. You shouldn't expect to win. I hired the best so I won.
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04 Dec, 2012 by Cherolyn
If you have a family law issue and you are wondering who you should hire, I would highly recommend Lisa Coplan-Gardner to represent you. Lisa has been representing me in my family law suits for nearly 10 years now. Lisa is very knowledgeable and resourceful when it comes to family law. Lisa really showed me that she cares about me as her client and has gone above and beyond to help me win my cases. Lisa has always answered or returned my telephone calls and emails in a timely manner. She has a great support staff that are always willing to help. I have been very satisfied with the results that Lisa has produced while representing me in my lengthy case history. I have recommended Lisa to my close friends and family because she is such a dynamite attorney and a wonderful caring person.
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26 May, 2011 by Candace
I have used Lisa Coplan-Gardner on several occasions for child support issues. Every case has been ruled in my favor due to her hard-work, diligence and compassion. I always felt that my case was a priority for her and her entire staff. I have a special needs child and a complex case. At our initial consultation, before I even hired her, she began looking up information for me and guiding me. At no time did I ever feel that it was about money for her. I was surprised at her eagerness to help me, educate me and fight for me and my children. Her kindness, understanding and patience was a breath of fresh air after having spoken to 3 other attorneys who made me feel as if I were a number. They were cold and unconcerned. Lisa treated me like a friend. When it was obvious that my complex case was going to cost more than I could afford at the time, she was sympathetic. She allowed me to make payments to her and often discounted some of her rates. She also suggested ways that I could reduce the costs by handling some things myself instead of just sucking every penny out of me that she could get. By me being proactive in helping with my case, it helped me be more prepared and educated in the courtroom in front of the judge. It also helped me to prepare for what is proving to be a long-term battle against the father of my children. The advice and education that she gave me through the entire process is proving to be invaluable. She never kept me in the dark, she was always available to talk to me, and her staff was AMAZING AND HELPFUL!!!! The thing that most impressed me about Lisa was that she was always honest with me - a trait that is not commonly associated with her profession - even when it was something that I didn't want to hear. She seems to be well liked and respected by other attorneys and the judges seem to respond well to her. She is a sweet, tiny, little thing, but she might as well be 10 feet tall in the courtroom. I have the utmost confidence in her abilities and have referred her to others. They have had equally satisfying experiences with her firm. There is no question that I will utilize her services again in the future. Overall, I don't think that you could hire a better Family Law Attorney.
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27 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
Absolutely the best! When you walk into this office you walk into a caring and friendly atmosphere. The entire legal team honestly cares about you and works their best for the best outcome of your situation. EXCELLENT EXCELLENT EXCELLENT!!!!!!!
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20 Mar, 2022 by David
Any chance I get to endorse Darin Gardner, I will. As I said, in my case, I dealt with 4 separate attorneys before getting any real results. He set my case on the most direct path to the courtroom, where the others just seemed to want to run up bills. His level of preparation is second to none, and we got the outcome he wanted.
I have a friend/former coworker in a somewhat similar situation that I was in, and personally recommended he hire Darin.
If you are looking to light money on fire, hire someone else. If you want results, hire Darin.
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17 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Darin C. Gardner was level headed and direct with his questioning and his proactive approach. His dynamic team was above and beyond what I could have ever asked. His experience proved who he was in character and he fought for my children & I. His detailed efforts even proved effective 5 years later in reviewing my divorce and custody! I appreciated Darin's individual dedication to my case and I never once felt like I was just another client. He and his staff do everything in their ability to assure you of their capabilities. I highly recommend Darin and his competent staff. I was referred by my friend Tracey and I am eternally grateful and blessed for his efforts. Thank you Darin!
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16 Mar, 2016 by Jon
Darin was very available and handled my child custody nicely. He was able to present the facts timely and competently in front of the Judge. He made suggestions that were beneficial during the case preparation and hearing.
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What a Child Support Lawyer Can Do for You
A child support lawyer specializes in legal issues related to the financial support that one parent provides to another for the upbringing of their children. These lawyers assist with establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders, ensuring that the financial needs of the child are met, including housing, food, healthcare, education, and other essentials. A child support lawyer can also represent parents in disputes over the amount of support, ensure fair calculations based on income, and handle legal proceedings if one parent fails to meet their obligations.
Whether you're seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or enforce payments, a child support lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights and the well-being of your child.
When Should I Hire a Child Support Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child support lawyer when you need assistance with any of the following child support matters:
- Establishing child support: If you are going through a divorce or separation and need to establish a child support order, a lawyer can help ensure that the support amount is fair and accurately calculated.
- Modifying child support orders: If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, income change, or a child's financial needs, a lawyer can help you request a modification to the existing child support order.
- Enforcing child support payments: If the other parent has failed to make court-ordered child support payments, a lawyer can help enforce the order through legal means such as wage garnishment, property liens, or even legal action.
- Disputing child support calculations: If you believe the child support amount has been incorrectly calculated based on your income or expenses, a lawyer can help you challenge the calculation and seek a fair adjustment.
- Paternity disputes: If paternity needs to be established before child support can be ordered, a lawyer can assist with DNA testing and legal proceedings.
- Interstate child support cases: If the parents live in different states, navigating child support laws can be complex. A lawyer can help ensure the proper jurisdiction is established and that child support is enforced across state lines.
- Child support during custody disputes: If child custody and child support are being determined simultaneously, a lawyer can help ensure that both issues are resolved fairly and in the best interest of the child.
Hiring a lawyer early can help ensure that your child support case is handled effectively and that your child's financial needs are met.
What Does a Child Support Lawyer Do?
A child support lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents secure, modify, and enforce child support arrangements. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing for child support: A lawyer can help you initiate the legal process to obtain a child support order, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and deadlines are met.
- Calculating child support: A lawyer can help ensure that child support is calculated fairly based on both parents' incomes, the needs of the child, and other factors such as healthcare and education costs.
- Negotiating child support agreements: If both parents are willing to negotiate, a lawyer can help facilitate an agreement on child support outside of court, which can then be approved by a judge.
- Representing you in court: If negotiations fail or the other parent contests the child support amount, a lawyer will represent you in family court, presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Modifying support orders: A lawyer can help you file a request for modification if circumstances change, such as a loss of income or an increase in the child’s financial needs.
- Enforcing child support: If the other parent is not making court-ordered payments, a lawyer can take legal steps to enforce the order through wage garnishment, property liens, or other measures.
- Handling complex cases: In cases involving high incomes, self-employment, or complicated financial situations, a lawyer can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered in determining child support.
How Are Child Support Lawyers Paid?
Child support lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work required. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child support lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. The total cost will depend on how much time the lawyer spends on your case, including preparation, negotiations, and court appearances.
- Flat fee: For more straightforward cases, such as uncontested child support agreements or basic modifications, some lawyers may offer a flat fee that covers all services related to the case.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount of the retainer depends on the expected complexity of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or provide pro bono (free) services in cases where clients cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially when children’s needs are at stake.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are covered.
How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child support lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it's contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested child support cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and the lawyer’s fees.
- Contested child support cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, especially if the case involves significant court time.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for child support cases, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases that involve complex financial issues.
- Modification or enforcement: Fees for modifying or enforcing a child support order may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity and the need for court intervention.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Support Lawyer
Before hiring a child support lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with child support cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support orders. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and any potential challenges you may face. -
How long will the process take?
Child support cases can take time, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors may cause delays. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
What documents should I prepare?
Ask the lawyer what financial documents and other information you should bring to help them calculate child support and build your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Support Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child support lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and have successfully handled child support cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on child support matters.
- Check for certifications: Some lawyers may have certifications in family law or membership in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), which can indicate their expertise in child support and family law issues.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a child support lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Income documents: Bring pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or any other documentation of your income and the other parent’s income, as this will be used to calculate child support.
- Existing child support orders: If there are any existing child support or custody orders, bring copies for the lawyer to review.
- Child-related expenses: Provide documentation of your child’s medical bills, education expenses, daycare costs, and any other expenses that should be factored into the child support calculation.
- Communication with the other parent: Bring any communication between you and the other parent regarding child support, whether through emails, text messages, or written agreements.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions about your case, the legal process, and the lawyer’s fees.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
