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28 Sep, 2018 by Randi
Being one of the finest lawyers in Calvert County, Judy made quick work of getting two traffic violations thrown out, and proved invaluable in a landlord/tenant dispute. She is reliable, effective, professional, and possesses an extensive proficiency in law; not only did she win my cases, but she also provided legal advise on numerous occasions that prevented future issues from arising. I would highly recommend Ms. Gillett if you want an attorney who has your best interest at heart, wins your cases, and treats you like family.
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03 Jul, 2015 by Carrie
Judy is extremely intelligent, knowledgeable, and never backs down from a challenge. She helped me get out of some unfair (and expensive) tickets that would have wrecked my driving record. She asks all of the relevant questions and crafts her defense well. I would recommend her to anyone seeking a good lawyer!
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10 Mar, 2015 by Ebony
I hired Judy when I got out of the military and relocated back to the local area to be with my son who was in the physical custody of his dad. She took my case and was ready to work for me. She never made any promises she could not keep and never gave me any unrealistic expectations. She fought for me at every hearing and she gave me sound advice on how to proceed outside of my feelings. She never backed down for the opposing party attorney and in the end, she won my case. I got what I was seeking, more time with my son. I would recommend her to anyone searching for an excellent family law attorney.
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17 Apr, 2023 by Samuel walto
Chris handled my divorce 8 years ago and since then I have been able to reach out to Chris for great straight forward advice and help. He is honest , straightforward, dependable and I full heartedly believe he always has my best interests at heart. I truly recommend Chris and glad that I found him to represent me along the way in life. GOD Bless Thanks Chris
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19 Aug, 2019 by Melissa
Chris Van Roden came highly recommended by a Lawyer friend of mine. Against my better judgement, I briefly considered reconciling with my husband, and it was during that time that he told me his attorney (H.Brucker from HdG) said 'VanRoden is the best divorce attorney in Harford County'. My husband was angry and said his lawyer was afraid of mine. That said, I was all alone, and my husband and his family were seemingly so much stronger & more resourceful than me. Chris advocated for me in a professional and firm manner, and I was very pleased with the results. Chris met with me the day before our Settlement Hearing and knew exactly what I wanted. He was so confident and prepared that he rarely needed to speak with me during the negotiations. Chris and I looked like an unstoppable Team. Meanwhile, my husband and his lawyer were scrambling. Chris is so highly respected in Harford County that Judges, Lawyers, Court Reporters, and Security Guards walking thru the hallways seemed proud to shake his hand. Chris wouldn't agree, but from my perspective that day, it looked like Chris Van Roden owned that Courthouse. Admittedly, I didn't like paying legal fees (no one does) but Chris was worth every penny. My new motto: Whoever said....... 'Money can't buy happiness", NEVER paid for a divorce! Thank you Chris....,for the journey, my settlement, and my freedom!
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08 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Several years ago I hired Chris when my children's father pursued a modification of visitation. My husband and I consulted with Chris and felt confident he understood the matter and would represent me in a way that would ensure the kids would have more consistency in the visitation with their father and the last minute demands and threats would stop. He agreed that what I was proposing was reasonable and he would be to help in this process. On one occasion while awaiting the court date, I contacted him when their father refused to return them on Christmas Day and Chris was very impatient and irritable while speaking with me as if it were an inconvenience when I contacted him the following day. When the court date arrived, all seemed fine until we had to negotiate some aspects of the agreement and Chris backpedaled on earlier reassurances and was aggressive when we asked him to explain the contradiction between earlier discussions and his current stance. I had been skeptical of him after the previously mentioned phone call, but my husband was blown away by his about-face. Needless to say we weren't satisfied entirely with the outcome, but to some extent that wasn't unexpected given the nature of cases like this. But I felt completely unprotected standing in that courtroom and we walked out of there with a visitation arrangement that benefited only the kids' father and he continues to violate to this day. Following the hearing, I refused to have any further contact with Chris as I found him to be unprofessional and insincere and on the day of the phone call nasty and unconstrctive.
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24 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Carmon was very helpful while having major life transitions. He helped me figure out the best way to navigate around my problems, and find the best legal resolution for my family. After getting separated, Mr. Carmon advised me on matters of bankruptcy, my divorce and child support. He also helped me figure out the best logical order to complete these processes. Mr. Carmon was knowledgeable and accountable. I would recommend him to anyone doing a bankruptcy, divorce, or child support manner.
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21 Apr, 2015 by Regina
I usually don't take the time to write reviews, however I felt compelled to do so because of the high level of customer service and care my case was dealt with. My condo association is ran by an external management agency who wasn't the slightest bit helpful or organized. I was past due on my fees and they had taken a lien out on my property. I wasn't sure how to proceed, so I hired Mr. Carmon to help guide me through the process. Thank god that I did! Mr. Carmon worked diligently with the other law firm representing the HOA to get my issue resolved. The whole time he kept me updated as to the negotiations that we're going on behind the scenes. Even after the case was settled the HOA tried to say I owed more moneu Mr. Carmon without hesitation contacted the HOA, and resolved the oversight on their part. I'm thankful to have found this law office. Mr Carmon was never showed judgment about me being behind on my fees, he simply focused on "let's see how we can get you on the right track". I'm so grateful this ordeal is over and the lien has been removed. I'm so grateful that my experience was handled with expertise and compassion. Good customer service is so rare these days!
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07 May, 2024 by John carberry
I can sum up my experience with Harry in one word.....GREED. Harry embodies greed through and through. Each and every one of his actions is predicated on generating money for himself, not advocating for you or your interests. It is fascinating that he takes the time to respond to each negative with review with somehow blaming the client, it is a bot or it is spam, etc. He is hyper sensitive to any criticism which is why he somehow was able to have google eliminate a review I had posted previously. And if you do not believe me, take the word of 2 of his former employees I happen to meet over the years. One left the legal practice all together because they were so put off by Harry's financially predatory practices and the other stopped working for him all together. Harry charged me over $35,000 and he never even appeared in court with me. Feel free to hire Harry, just do not be surprised if your experience is similar to mine and others, where you are bilked of all of your money and then abandoned.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Benjamin campbell
This is a typical divorce attorney who will milk you for your money and drop you when it’s game time. Absolutely do not recommend HAD THE EXAXT SAME EXPERIENCE AS DAVE SMITH BELOW. Harry and His staff allowed my ex wife and her counsel and the judge to completely violate my constitutionally protected rights and when I brought this up they continued to draw a contrast between my rights and the system instead of actually standing up for my rights. They are typical divorce attorneys. They milked every dime they could get out of my family and dropped us when it wasn’t an easy case. DO NOT HIRE THIS FIRM IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING PARENTAL ALIENATION.
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05 Mar, 2024 by Neli rubio
Contrate estos abogados para el diborcio setardaron casi 3 años para poder logra el diborcio y firme contrato por cinco mil dolares epagado mas y los recivos siguen llegando y llegando y no trabajaron por mas de 2 años y hoy me dicen que tengo que seguir pagando si ustedes le dicen al cliente que seran 5mil pero se tardan mas de 2 años en el caso siguen cobrando NO CONTRANTEN ESTOS ABOGADOS PORQUE SERA MUY TRISTE QUE COBREN CASI 15MIL DOLARES POR ALGO QUE NI AN TERMINADO NO ENTIENDO PORQUE SI SON ABOGADOS QUE SE SUPONE SABEN DE LELLES Y LAS CUMPLEN PORQUE NOS DIERON UN CONTRATO DE 5MIL Y HOY COBRAN CASI 15MIL DEBERIAN DE TENER CORAZON COBRALE ESOS MILES A UNA MADRE SOLTERA QUE LE DIJERON QUE PAGARIA 5MIL ....HOY LE COBRAN CASI 15MIL DOLARES .......!!!!!NO CONTRATEN ESTE LUGAR
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19 Sep, 2024 by Gabrielle brown
Mr Day took my case a few years ago. This attorney is very organized and professional. He has strong negotiating skills as well. I was able to leave my marriage in a good position. He also set the tone for the co parenting arrangements. I remember him being honest with me about my situation and giving good advice on what I needed to do to regain my autonomy and dignity in the divorce. Thank you
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21 Jun, 2024 by Prophetess rain mackey
This has been a very traumatic time of my life. I haven’t slept all night since February. I met the most amazing Attorney at this firm. Attorney Joseph McKenzie. First let me start by saying he’s GREAT LISTENER! He allowed me to explain everything without interruption. He corrected me on things I totally didn’t understand were wrong. He made me feel heard and understood. I was very impressed with his knowledge and professionalism. He has a beautiful office and the staff were very welcoming. I left there feeling safe and that God let me meet the right person. I slept all night for the first time in a few months. If you need an Attorney who will listen to you and care about your situation call Attorney Joseph and you will not be disappointed.
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23 Mar, 2024 by Kenneth jones
Power to the people
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20 Jul, 2024 by Julia long
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28 Jun, 2024 by Briana
The process was very seamless and the process was extremely helpful. Sahmra was extremely detailed and knowledgeable and cover every scenario. My mother and I are thankful for this service and will be referring Will on Wheels to our friends and family.
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29 May, 2024 by Jaimee
I had a wonderful experience! As an attorney myself I wouldn't just trust anyone with my legal matters; but I trust Attorney Stevenson. I would recommend her and her team to anyone.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Julia long
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07 Apr, 2023 by Nicole diclaudio
Wow! This is the most amazing, professional law office I have ever worked with. They get the job done quick.
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06 Apr, 2023 by Jon christ
Everything went great. They got me out of a huge jam (my Marriage) quickly. Will definetlly use again for my next Marriage. Quick and easy! Highly recommended.
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02 Apr, 2024 by Dennis badham
Kathleen and her entire team made a tough divorce and custody situation a lot easier. Kathleen was knowledgeable and honest about the entire process, and kept me informed throughout the duration. I highly recommend this group.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Mary ellen jacobs
Kathleen and her staff were integral in the reason why I was finally able to sign my divorce papers this week. She answered all my questions, was kind with difficult messages and even picked me up on morning when I was experiencing a panic attack before a court date. I would recommend her to anyone in MD for divorce. Thank you so much!
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19 Sep, 2023 by Deedee t
Ned wasn’t bad. He cared I could tell. Kathleen didn’t. I paid over 20,000 in less than 6 months. Our court date came and I had no attorney to stand by my side. I was told I had a balance of another $4000. This was days before our hearing. Take that for what’s it worth. Don’t come here.
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27 Oct, 2019 by Christine
Jessica was my lawyer when I went through a difficult divorce. She always listened and was very supportive throughout the process. Jessica's knowledge and strength were things I admired all throughout the process.I was able to achieve the outcome I wanted with Jessica's representation. I would recommend her to everyone.
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13 Nov, 2018 by Clement
She handled my case very well and every has been done on the a time. I really like the way she contacted my case.
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23 Jul, 2018 by Andrea
Getting a divorce is full of difficult, emotional decisions. Jessica and the team at at the McKeon Law Firm helped guide me through the hard decisions that come from a difficult divorce. Jessica was always on top what was happening in my case, always willing to talk through all of the details and adept at helping me remove the emotion from my decisions so that I could make good choices for me and my kids future. Jessica is smart, capable, patient, efficient, detail oriented and organized and I knew I was in great hands from our first meeting. I am so grateful that I hired her as my attorney. It was the best decision I could have made.
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29 Dec, 2022 by Ralph alswang
Best Divorce/Family lawyers in the Washington DC area
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07 Oct, 2021 by Maria aurora obias
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18 Jun, 2021 by Nina smith
I highly recommend Sheila Kadagathur of Hostetter Strent, who handled my divorce/custody case. The entire Hostetter team was extremely helpful and compassionate during a hectic period of my life. I always felt like I was their priority and could count on them at any time of day or even night. All of the staff I encountered at the firm were honest, reliable, and professional. Ms. Kadagathur's expertise and vast knowledge enabled them to handle various situations and whatever was thrown at us throughout my case. Even post divorce, Sheila is always a phone call or email away when needed, and has given me great advice along the way.
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03 May, 2024 by Jesse c
Tamara fowler is by far the best family law attorney in the DMV area. If you're looking for a aggressive attorney that will fight for you till the end... HIRE TAMARA!!!! THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU DID FOR ME AND MY FAMILY....
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30 Nov, 2023 by Michelle johnson
I had the privilege of working with Tamara during an incredibly challenging family case where I was dealing with a highly clever and manipulative spouse who was legally abusive. Tamara's legal prowess shone brightly in this complex situation. She not only navigated through the legal intricacies with finesse but also exposed the manipulative tactics employed by my spouse. She possesses a remarkable ability to go toe to toe with even the toughest attorneys around. Tamara's extensive knowledge of family law and her dedication to her clients ensures that no one can intimidate her or her cause. She is not just a lawyer; she's a fighter who went over and beyond to protect my interests. I am incredibly grateful to have had Tamara by my side through this ordeal. She transformed what seemed like an insurmountable situation and helped me achieve a favorable outcome. She was truly my guardian angel !!!! I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone in need of a tough, knowledgeable and exceptional lawyer.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Mprez jaa
I came across Tammy from a neighbor; she had represented my neighbor's husband against my neighbor. I asked for a great lawyer to fight for me, and my neighbor pointed me to Tammy without hesitation. And boy, was she right; Tammy was courageous and skilled. She represented me with an unwavering dedication and remarkable ability to navigate even the most complex legal battles. I had been locked in a bitter divorce dispute with a narcissistic ex-spouse, known for his deceitful tactics and manipulative nature, but Tammy left no stone unturned to tip the scales in my favor. My ex tampered with evidence, fabricated stories, and spread false information throughout the proceedings. So, I needed a strong advocate to fight against his onslaught of lies. Immediately recognizing the magnitude of the challenge before her, Tammy took on my case with determination and compassion. She built a solid case that would expose his web of lies. Tammy meticulously prepared for each court appearance, empowering me with knowledge and confidence. She carefully presented evidence before the judge, disproving falsehoods and shedding light on his manipulative actions. The clarity and strength of my case was undeniable. As the courtroom drama unfolded, Tammy’s legal prowess shone through. She skillfully dismantled every constructed web of deceit, exposing each lie and manipulation for what it was. Due to Tammy’s tenacity, I emerged victorious in every aspect of the divorce settlement. My assets were protected, and custody arrangements were made in my favor. It was a resounding triumph against the odds. Overwhelmed by Tammy’s exceptional representation, I couldn't help but express my gratitude. Filled with appreciation for her tireless efforts, I wanted to pay her more than our agreed-upon fee. I recognized that Tammy had gone above and beyond, not only ensuring success but also providing the empathy and support I needed during such a challenging time. Today, I celebrate a triumph over deceit and will forever be grateful for Tammy's role in my newfound freedom and happiness. Tammy, the exceptional divorce lawyer, reminds me of the incredible impact one person can have on another's life. Her dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the truth brought justice and closure to a tumultuous journey, leaving me on a path to healing and a brighter future.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Jonathan rayner
This firm represented my former partner in a custody case. They repeatedly made basic errors - miscalculating support numbers and simply not understanding the application of law. Their errors significantly added to the conflict between myself and my former partner. I wished she would have had better representation - it would have saved everyone a great deal of heartache.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jeff flowers
I am writing to express my gratitude and to commend Mike Goecke and Hunter Daley. They were both professional, compassionate, generous and more than competent. Mr. Goecke did an excellent job presenting our case in court; he was clear, confident and on point. He thought both deeply and creatively about the issues in our case. The depth of Mr. Daley’s knowledge and research was impressive. They worked very well as a team, and brought complementary skills to the problem. They both inspired confidence and gave us thoughtful advice for our legal decisions. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing legal assistance.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Timothy hoffman
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01 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
We had a custody case with Mr. Rolle in August of 2017 and we are so happy we hired him! We instantly felt at ease with him. Also, he must have an excellent paralegal on staff. She seems to have done most of our paperwork (under his supervision/direction) and that was great for us! The custody order and other stuff was very well written and because he used his paralegal so wisely the billing to us was far less than we were expecting it to be. It was a huge relief for us. We’d had another lawyer before him who did things badly and was gouging us with the billing, so our final bill from this firm was a huge relief. They deducted the bill from our retainer and returned it in a reasonable amount of time. Also, when the other party was ready to settle (very much in our favor), because of life circumstances, Mr. Rolle’s Law firm was able to get the new custody order written up very quickly. I think it was only a couple of days and that included some revisions that we sent in after the fact. That was important because we were concerned the other party might change their mind. We would definitely hire Mr. Rolle again. Thank you!
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21 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Rolle does not take just any case. Even though he could easily do this to increase his billable hours, that is not his style. He is to the point, and cares about keeping legal costs down. I have recommended this firm to two of my friends and anticipate I will recommend them again if the opportunity arises. He was brilliant in how he drafted the complaint filed against my opponent and fiercely protected my legal interests.
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02 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Rolle is professional, kind, and did a fabulous job representing me in my divorce/custody case. He listened to me and worked effectively to get the best resolution for me and my children. Mr. Rolle is also very aware of not wasting time/money -- and thus my total attorneys' fees were not the extreme financial hit they could have been. Highly recommended!
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24 Apr, 2023 by Kris
I had never experienced divorce before, did not know what to expect and was relying on Jennifer to guide me through the process. The filing of paperwork was great but the legal guidance was lousy. She did not ask my witness the right questions. She just asked her if “there was anything she wanted to say”. Not familiar with what issues or questions that were important my witness didn’t give the right information that would have supported my case. Also, in a joint meeting with the defense attorney Jennifer gave out advice that cost me almost a thousand dollars and helped the defense’s client. After seeing other attorneys perform their job in court I would never hire her for any reason again.
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17 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
In 2011 I lost custody of my two children while being represented by Ms. Muskus and was ordered to pay child support to my abusive husband. I was in class at the time trying to make a job change I had inconsistent work hours the judge didn’t understand that this was a temporary situation and my lawyer didn’t really say what she needed to say to prove my case.Ms. Muskus lost the case I was devastated, but all Ms. Muskus could think about was getting her check. My faith in the legal system was shattered then and I still feel the same today.My children and I were victims of the legal system. Ms. Muskus ruined my life in one court case and I’m still trying to pick up the pieces.
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12 Feb, 2021 by Alvenia
My representation was not as adequate or thorough as the lawyer for the defendant. Since working with Jennifer I've seen how lawyers pled cases, the language they use, how they present the evidence. As my lawyer I expect her know what kind of questions that should be asked. She failed to provide sufficient guidance to my witness as far as questions to be asked that would reveal information that prove my case. She did not adequately challenge what the dependant said on followup nor challenge with followup questions. On appeal she helped the defendant by giving his attorney advice that helped his client. On appeal she was present in the courtroom but said nothing. She left my defense to an attorney I did not choose and his performance was a joke. I knew I had lost my case by the reaction of the three judges. I felt I paid her to just file court papers because the representation was totally insufficient and inadequate. We did not have a pre-appeal meeting to jointly prepare for the appeal court date which I asked for and was told we would talk before the court session. She arrived late and I did not like her approach to presenting my case but it was to late to change approach. I lost my case. Now that I have seen how good lawyers perform, I regret hiring Jennifer and would not recommend her to anyone else.
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17 Dec, 2023 by Kim
The worst experience! I filed for divorce in August of 2022 before the divorce laws changed even though the law changes went into effect on October 1,2023 and did not apply to cases filed prior to that she enforced the changes which only benefited my ex. As my counsel Amanda Schmidt never made me aware of the changes or how they would affect my case and just took it upon herself to make the changes without notifying me until it was to late. Sadly my ex husband could have won this case without an attorney representing him with the new law changes.
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06 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
This lawyer literally is the worst at communicating with people. She threatens and demeans opposing parties. She doesnt know the law shes practicing and continues to threaten filing contempt and other things all while opposing parties are in the legal parameters of agreement. She uses scare tactics and fluff language in her emails to get what she wants. She is awful
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28 Dec, 2017 by Bonnie
From start to finish my experience with Amanda was flawless. She was always quick to return my calls and emails. If she was not available she would have someone in her office call me. She was knowledgeable and compassionate. I have nothing but positive things to say about her. I don't live close to her office, but she was worth the drive. Thank you for being you, YOU ROCK!
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23 Oct, 2023 by Leah
Ms. Wiseman did not do anything at the court besides notify the majesty her introduction to the case. After the case was changed to another day, she demanded more money and informed me that she didn't want to continue the case because it was too complicated for her. The case was only to receive the dates for hearings. Very unprofessional and rude.
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06 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
6/6/2022 I just had court today with Rihanna and she is by far the best attorney I have ever had and I will always use her if I ever need her thank you so much Rihanna.
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28 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Unprofessional on every level! Acts like the courtroom is an episode of law and order on TV! Sour grapes is a term she uses, I believe she is the sour grape!
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29 May, 2024 by Dave
They are fine for an uncontested low-conflict divorce. However, shop around for a contested high-conflict matter. Sara Gable's litigation skills are suboptimal for a high conflict contested case with aggressive opposing counsel. I had to hire a more experienced litigator to step in on an ad hoc basis to argue more complex motions and hearings.
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17 Jul, 2023 by S drake
Chris has been representing my case since I hired him as my WC attorney. I can truly say if WC tries not to work in your favor or slow with your payments; Chris jump right on the matter and get fast positive results. When calling his office I get to speak with my attorney and not an office personnel. He is always willing to talk without rushing through the conversation. I would highly recommend Attorney Christopher Marts.
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19 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
A family member used her for a divorce and I tried to talk to several times. I called and left a message for her to call me, which she never returned my call. She also charge for every phone conversation every email and every thing her paralegal does. When you ask her to get records from the school where the child goes to she gets them and charges you for getting them and them never uses them. Right before the trial she want to be paid up front for the trial. Her reasons is if you are not happy with the results you won't pay her. Needless to say we did not want to pay her more money after what we paid her for doing nothing but paper work.
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22 Jun, 2022 by Ales
This lawyer is supposed to be representing me ..hes been on my case for 2 years and has literally filed nothing on my behalf ..in 2 years ..not one filing ..I did not request a lawyer ..i wanted to proceed Pro Se.in the first convo ..he was told to turn over all my filings i was not giving him any authorization to view them or do anything else .which he did . then..he forced himself on my case against my will despite having zero info on the case because they had been turned over . Mr Bookhard still went to court and stood in like he was my lawyer ..against my will ... As a result i have lost all rights to my daughter whom ive never met along with other things . ..ive asked him to resign several times ...he has refused ..and continue to obstruct justice . he lied last week told me he filed things and did not . i have the emails to prove it . .. DO NOT HIRE THIS CROOK he has the govt kidnap children to help his lawyer friends ... Report this man immediately he needs to be disbarred.
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17 May, 2013 by Anonymous
I totally agree with the other review. This guy was appointed as public defender in my case. Nothing he said as to the outcome or my sentence was the ending result. In fact, the ending result was NOWHERE in the ballpark of what Bookhard had been saying. I could have received a much harsher sentence but I actually think that the judge and the Prosecutor felt sorry for me because he was totally inept. Even stumbled over his words in court. I would NEVER recommend this lawyer for any legal matter.
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23 Feb, 2013 by Dave
I lost full custody of my child based on this lawyer doing absolutely nothing !!. It was as if he did not know ANY legal strategies. This lawyer should consider switching careers.
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24 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
At $350 per hour and seeing him on a recommendation from another lawyer I was hoping for more than a impatient and arrogant attitude. We had barely reviewed my intake sheet and started to discuss more details. I had been sitting with him for 10 minutes or less before I asked anything. I wanted to know more about him before disclosing more personal information. He went rough my intake sheet and as he asked about some of the info on the sheet with regard to the sums of the balance in one of my kids accounts I stopped and said I have a few questions before we go further. He sat back in a huff and said I've been doing this for 35 years and we ARE going to go through my questions but you just go ahead and do yours now OK! Total red flag.... I had JUST met him and he gets huffy? He said this is such a rude and unprofessional way and then he actually pushed his papers away and sat back with his arms crossed. I was shocked. I'm there to hire HIM! In that moment I thought I'm out of here. I said to him calmly after gathering myself and said, I think I'm done. I'm. It doing this with you. He said ok, grabbed the papers and said "good night then" and he stomped out of the office. I gathered my things and told the front desk he was the rudest and most unprofessional attorneys I've ever met. They looked at me and probably knew exactly what I meant. Last person I would want on my side. Seriously, if you can't get past the intake paperwork how are you going to get anywhere! Not worth the $4 I paid for parking.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Hides court orders and files case indicating non-receipt of court orders, lies to judge about making filings and says oops later. Gets away with weak opposing parties. She was represented by opposing party.
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What a Child Support Lawyer Can Do for You

A child support lawyer specializes in legal issues related to the financial support that one parent provides to another for the upbringing of their children. These lawyers assist with establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders, ensuring that the financial needs of the child are met, including housing, food, healthcare, education, and other essentials. A child support lawyer can also represent parents in disputes over the amount of support, ensure fair calculations based on income, and handle legal proceedings if one parent fails to meet their obligations.

Whether you're seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or enforce payments, a child support lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights and the well-being of your child.

When Should I Hire a Child Support Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a child support lawyer when you need assistance with any of the following child support matters:

  • Establishing child support: If you are going through a divorce or separation and need to establish a child support order, a lawyer can help ensure that the support amount is fair and accurately calculated.
  • Modifying child support orders: If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, income change, or a child's financial needs, a lawyer can help you request a modification to the existing child support order.
  • Enforcing child support payments: If the other parent has failed to make court-ordered child support payments, a lawyer can help enforce the order through legal means such as wage garnishment, property liens, or even legal action.
  • Disputing child support calculations: If you believe the child support amount has been incorrectly calculated based on your income or expenses, a lawyer can help you challenge the calculation and seek a fair adjustment.
  • Paternity disputes: If paternity needs to be established before child support can be ordered, a lawyer can assist with DNA testing and legal proceedings.
  • Interstate child support cases: If the parents live in different states, navigating child support laws can be complex. A lawyer can help ensure the proper jurisdiction is established and that child support is enforced across state lines.
  • Child support during custody disputes: If child custody and child support are being determined simultaneously, a lawyer can help ensure that both issues are resolved fairly and in the best interest of the child.

Hiring a lawyer early can help ensure that your child support case is handled effectively and that your child's financial needs are met.

What Does a Child Support Lawyer Do?

A child support lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents secure, modify, and enforce child support arrangements. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Filing for child support: A lawyer can help you initiate the legal process to obtain a child support order, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and deadlines are met.
  • Calculating child support: A lawyer can help ensure that child support is calculated fairly based on both parents' incomes, the needs of the child, and other factors such as healthcare and education costs.
  • Negotiating child support agreements: If both parents are willing to negotiate, a lawyer can help facilitate an agreement on child support outside of court, which can then be approved by a judge.
  • Representing you in court: If negotiations fail or the other parent contests the child support amount, a lawyer will represent you in family court, presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
  • Modifying support orders: A lawyer can help you file a request for modification if circumstances change, such as a loss of income or an increase in the child’s financial needs.
  • Enforcing child support: If the other parent is not making court-ordered payments, a lawyer can take legal steps to enforce the order through wage garnishment, property liens, or other measures.
  • Handling complex cases: In cases involving high incomes, self-employment, or complicated financial situations, a lawyer can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered in determining child support.

How Are Child Support Lawyers Paid?

Child support lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work required. Common payment methods include:

  • Hourly rate: Most child support lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. The total cost will depend on how much time the lawyer spends on your case, including preparation, negotiations, and court appearances.
  • Flat fee: For more straightforward cases, such as uncontested child support agreements or basic modifications, some lawyers may offer a flat fee that covers all services related to the case.
  • Retainer: Many lawyers require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount of the retainer depends on the expected complexity of the case.
  • Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or provide pro bono (free) services in cases where clients cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially when children’s needs are at stake.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are covered.

How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a child support lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it's contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:

  • Uncontested child support cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and the lawyer’s fees.
  • Contested child support cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, especially if the case involves significant court time.
  • Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for child support cases, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases that involve complex financial issues.
  • Modification or enforcement: Fees for modifying or enforcing a child support order may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity and the need for court intervention.

Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation so you can plan your budget accordingly.

Top Questions to Ask a Child Support Lawyer

Before hiring a child support lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with child support cases?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support orders.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and any potential challenges you may face.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Child support cases can take time, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors may cause delays.
  5. Will you personally handle my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court.
  6. What documents should I prepare?
    Ask the lawyer what financial documents and other information you should bring to help them calculate child support and build your case.

How to Check the Credibility of a Child Support Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable child support lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:

  • Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and have successfully handled child support cases similar to yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on child support matters.
  • Check for certifications: Some lawyers may have certifications in family law or membership in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), which can indicate their expertise in child support and family law issues.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a child support lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Income documents: Bring pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or any other documentation of your income and the other parent’s income, as this will be used to calculate child support.
  • Existing child support orders: If there are any existing child support or custody orders, bring copies for the lawyer to review.
  • Child-related expenses: Provide documentation of your child’s medical bills, education expenses, daycare costs, and any other expenses that should be factored into the child support calculation.
  • Communication with the other parent: Bring any communication between you and the other parent regarding child support, whether through emails, text messages, or written agreements.
  • List of questions: Prepare a list of questions about your case, the legal process, and the lawyer’s fees.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.

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