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19 Aug, 2017 by Sewa aifw
Sewa-Aifw is a social services agency serving underserved vulnerable population in Minnesota. Finding a lawyer to serve these communities is like finding needle in a haystack. Bill came forward and am thankful to him for taking a very complicated client that has language barriers. Thank you for taking this case that has custody battles.
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23 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Timothy Ryan is an excellent lawyer to have in your corner during the legal process. His performance at trial was spot on! He was extremely responsive to any question or concerns I had. If I couldn't reach him all I had to do was leave a voicemail which he regularly checks throughout the day, and he would be quick to respond. Never even a 24 hour wait on a question, which was an issue that arose with a past attorney.
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23 Oct, 2013 by Jay
I would strongly recommend Greg Bittle to anyone seeking a legal 'champion'. Extremely thankful for his guidance and professionalism. It was a real gift above and beyond his legal acumen how Greg was able to keep me even-keeled, ethical, and focused during an extremely emotional time / case.
Professionals often come in 'as needed', do their jobs & at the end of the day take home pay for the work - but they don't always know the lasting benefits they've left behind. That motivates me to post this review - as this is a lawyer who went above and beyond in the care he took with my case. The grounding Greg wisely coached me into set the stage for a solid long-term future after the case was over. He was prescient enough to guide me in a way that he knew would last long after our legal case. I have engaged several business and personal lawyers in years past, but never experienced personal attention like this. And I don't just share this because he won a complicated interstate case for me!
I cannot say enough about my appreciation for his knowledge counsel and compassion.
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03 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Westby is a great attorney with a good heart. She is diligent, details oriented and pragmatic. I appreciate the high quality work she provided on my case. Jenna works efficiently to keep the costs low for her clients. She is responsive and explains issues and expectations well. This helps lowering the anxiety of her clients.
My ex is an attorney represented by an expensive/experienced attorney. They filed a physical custody related motion against me. If they could win, it would have damaging to my children. When I hired Jenna, I had no hope of winning against two experienced attorneys. Jenna was able to turn things around in my favor and win the case for me. She is wonderful.
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19 May, 2015 by Pamela
Karen was an excellent divorce attorney, and provided great guidance and support throughout the process. This divorce case was extremely long and drawn out, and required a lot of patience on her part as far as dealing with the opposition. My case required an abundance of paperwork, numerous orders and I continued to require her services for several years, dealing with contempt orders, child and medical support obligations, affidavits, and required court appearances. She was very thorough with my case, and always went through every possible scenario with me so that I understood exactly what was happening. I would very strongly recommend Karen Ives; I had a very positive experiece and valued her organization, diligence and attention to detail. I also appreciated her thoughtfulness, kind words and understanding nature. She was very helpful and I continue to use her services to this day.
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20 Mar, 2012 by Jamie
Amanda did a great job keeping me informed about my case and it's progress. She was very helpful and knowlegeble and helped me understand everything I needed to know to help my divorce proceedings go as smoothly as possible. She was quick to respond to any questions I had. Amanda really pays attention to detail and shows she cares about the case. Amanda is very personable and realistic. Amanda is an exceptional lawyer with an extreme level of expertise and exceeded my expectations in all aspects of my case. I would recommend her to anyone looking for an excellent lawyer.
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16 Jun, 2011 by Terry
Mr. Hanson offered free advise before we engaged him. He was professional, knowledgeable, and acted with great integrity and did not waste his client's money. I would highly recommend him.
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06 Apr, 2021 by Kit sackreiter
14 Oct, 2020 by Liz walker
Wonderful working with Peter. Always responsive to questions and showed competence and expertise to help navigate through a difficult situation. Made the process seamless and successful.
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13 Nov, 2019 by Jacob petersen
12 Jul, 2020 by Sally scoggin
17 Sep, 2019 by David lickness
They care!
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18 Jul, 2018 by Jeff hames
Experienced and professional!
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08 Jan, 2014 by Ryan s
Recently had a custody and child support battle with the mother of my nine year old daughter.
As biased as Minnesota Courts are against fathers, I went into this battle very discouraged already. Derk Schweiger was amazing in court, and I felt that because of his professional demeanor, articulateness, and sheer brilliance in court, the judge was able to see where I was coming from, and my life situation, my desire to better myself as a man, and my desire to be a father. The judgment was more than fair, and I was very happy that I chose Derk to be my lawyer. I have referred him to several people, and if need be, I will definitely call upon him again. He was professional, organized, clever, and not as expensive as other lawyers in the metro area.
Thanks again! -Ryan Wagner
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28 Jan, 2022 by Gayle flohrs
Jeremy is very knowledgeable and helpful. We had a good experience having his help us with some estate planning.
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19 Apr, 2021 by Sara
Brian is a great family law attorney. He helped answer my questions concerning divorce and custody. Highly recommend!
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19 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Brain Aho is a high quality bankruptcy attorney and family law attorney. If you need a good divorce lawyer, give Brain a call. He can help you out with spousal maintenance, child support, or paternity issues. He navigates the obstacles of divorce and custody law deftly, and will leave you feeling good at the end of a divorce or bankruptcy, which is a real feat.
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06 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Brian was very helpful and kind. I battle anxiety and with everything going on I was even more anxious, but he was calming and considerate. (He even brought me a mask)
He helped me with the paper work and he walked me through everything. I highly recommend him.
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24 Feb, 2014 by Michelle
Brain was extremely professional. He provided us with excellent advise and explained the process every step of the way. We were extremely happy with the outcome and have him to thank for it!
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13 Feb, 2014 by Jessica
My experience with Brian throughout my divorce solidified the fact that I will continue to use him whenever I have a need for representation that he can fill. I would also provide his name and contact information to any close friend or family member who needed a solid referral.
In my case, I believe the results speak highest of Brian's skill and ability. He negotiated terms that were highly favorable to me. In private meetings, he always presented both sides to me and talked through all of our options and potential corresponding outcomes. However, when it came time to sit at the table with opposing counsel, he was firm, professional, and effective and my biggest advocate.
I have engaged Brian since my divorce was final for additional needs and will absolutely continue to do so. If you are in the position of needing legal advice or representation, set yourself up for success by retaining Brian as soon as possible.
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05 Feb, 2014 by Chris
My daughter had an unexpected (and unwarranted) run in with the law. Brian handled the whole thing from start to finish. The result was the better than we could have hoped for. Thanks Brian.
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22 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Rod Jensen on the recommendation of a friend of mine who had also gone through a divorce. He made a difficult process a lot better by handling the issues in a professional, calm manner. My ex's lawyer was pushing to go to trial (which would have made her a ton of money at our expense), but Rod knew that would be a waste of money in our case. He worked hard for us to settle the case with mediation. His associate is also very professional and pleasant to work with, and very mindful of the details of our case--she caught some important errors in the other lawyer's paperwork! If you are going through a separation or divorce, I cannot recommend Rod highly enough.
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16 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
The moment I met with Rod, I knew I had found an attorney who cared. I had no idea about anything, as divorce was a word that was not in my vocabulary. But Rod patiently guided me through it all. I highly recommend him to anyone who must travel the road of divorce especially when children are involved.
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08 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I needed an attorney that could take on a high conflict individual and dreadfully unjust situation. I interviewed and consulted with many attorneys, based on research and recommendations. It was not until I consulted with Rod, that I knew instantly I had found the right attorney to protect me from what could have been a devastating outcome. Many attorneys would have shied away from the challenges and intricacies that accompanied my case, but Rod used it as fuel to refine his noteworthy expertise and better the lives of all those he will serve in the future. Rod is trustworthy, relatable, compassionate, knowledgable, and honest to a fault. Rod treated my case with the utmost care and concern, and always found time to provide direction and support despite his tireless schedule. Rod is highly respected by his colleagues and community, is a great communicator, and will go the extra mile to ensure an excellent outcome. Rod is far more than a great attorney, he is a great person with great integrity. I would highly recommend Rod Jensen for any case.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Robyn raeanne virnig
18 Oct, 2024 by Anthony lussier
16 Jul, 2024 by Grace candler
09 Oct, 2024 by Adam sanchez
Wow - Just wow. We didn't even talk numbers and Joe was not only willing to help but thoroughly explained what would and wouldn't be a good idea given our situation. He listened and answered thoroughly. We're not yet sure if this will be the route we'll take, but if we do, Joe will definitely have our business.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Joseph lyons
Jennifer Stevens- empathetically and kindly helped guide me through a difficult divorce. She helped me navigate through things like splitting marital assets/parenting time/child support. The money I spent to have Jennifer flawlessly represent me paid off in the end. She helped me find assets that my ex-wife had hidden and/or illegally took after papers were served. Thank you, Jennifer Stevens. You are the best in the Midwest and beyond!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Swankythetiger
Fathers beware.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Andy wollenzien
Beau has served as my attorney. I have nothing but great things to say about his skills as a lawyer, his professionalism and his empathy. Although my matter was a relatively small one, he made me feel like I was his only client. I knew he was incredibly busy with other cases, but I was always a priority. His knowledge of the law and his willingness to go to bat for me really resonated. I am still grateful for his services and would recommend him to anyone with a legal issue large or small.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jad al-balawi
I have used Beau for several matters, including my will and setting up a business. He is detail oriented, honest, professional and kind. The work was always done quickly and he communicated with me throughout the entire process. I have recommended his services to all of my friends and family without hesitation.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Chas biery
16 Jan, 2025 by Ariela cortes
I recommend this Law Firm. Krista made our process smooth and communication was great. She was very clear with any questions I had. Thank you.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Rojo morales
Ustedes si me hicieron mucha ayuda pues la verdad trabajaron muy bien conmigo y todo me ayudaron, y ahorita igual terminado el caso me ayudan y todavia siguen siendo ustedes que me estan ayudando cualquier cosa. Usted Eliana siempre esta pendiente de mi, de nosotros, y eso es lo bueno pues. De hecho antes yo tuve otro abogado y su gente de ellos casi no trabajan pero eso si usted y Matias siempre los otros no trabajaban como ustedes. Yo lo que digo es que usted si ha trabajado bien, a veces uno quiere que alguien le conteste y luego ya rapido ustedes dos contestan. Yo voy a pasar las fiestas con mi hermano aqui el cocinara pozole, espero que ustedes pasen bien.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Jaime duran
Muchas gracias a la abogada arleth por el éxito tan rápido en mi caso al igual estubieron ayudándome Néstor y Matías la vdd son un equipo muy bueno y con una calides humana inmejorable que dios bendiga a ellos y su firma gracia
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11 Jan, 2024 by Nolan
I had a positive experience working with Michael. He was exceptionally helpful, quick to address my questions, and demonstrated in-depth knowledge. He was both honest and trustworthy. His kindness added a personal touch to the professional service. I Highly recommend Michael!
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19 Oct, 2023 by Marcus
Michael , was SUPER GREAT and EXTREMELY professional!! He always has a great since of humor! If I ever needed to be represented again, I would not HESITATE to call Michael!
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25 Mar, 2021 by Danielle
Michael is very good at what he does. He has good advice and leads you in the right direction. Very grateful for him! Used him for my divorce, also for child support re-evaluation.
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09 Oct, 2023 by Olivia r
Highly recommend using Beckman, Steen & Lungstrom.
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01 Aug, 2023 by Linda gelo
05 Oct, 2022 by Michael steen
I'll admit, founded by Mom. But I've also been a client many times.
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5.0
20 Reviews
3.9
40 Reviews
13 Apr, 2024 by Creativechick
04 Feb, 2024 by Mikhail brunes
An absolutely invaluable resource for my family and I while navigating difficult life events.
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07 Dec, 2023 by L.
I came to Sharon for a legal help with my divorce case. It was supposed to be an easy process as we have no children and I was voluntarily waving all my marital rights in any marital property we had. The process turned into a shit show when we started listing all the marital assets. The counter part was not agreeing to list it all out even though he was getting awarded all the rights. He just didn’t want it on the paper. This caused lots of problems. Throughout the whole process I felt safe and secure thanks to Sharon’s expertise and her deep knowledge how to call out on a B.S. in such professional way that was leaving the counter attorney in ridicule. Which I loved! Sharon is not just an attorney, she educates you not only on the process but in detail walks you through all possible scenarios and outcomes. She is patiently holding your hand through tough times and helps you feel and know you are not alone. Sharon no words can express my gratitude to you for being there for me when I needed you the most! Thank you and best / warm wishes to you. Merry Christmas (soon to be) (smile face)
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27 Dec, 2024 by Shiobhan nhean
I have put off my divorce for the last 4 years due to not being to afford it. I tried doing it on my own, but was so confused on what paperwork to do, where to send it, how to serve. I wanted to find an easier solution. I found out about flat fee divorces and did my research. Because I shared no children or assets with my ex, this was the easiest solution for me. Williams Divorce and Family Law got back to me quickly and answered my questions thoroughly. I am happy to say my divorce is final and that it was a breeze and a pleasure to work with this law office.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Anastasia atkins
Absolutely the most rude, unprofessional attorney I've ever come across, a total bully. If you are woman, stay away from this agency!
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04 Mar, 2024 by Cindy daninger
They were wonderful. They were very patient and explaining things that I didn't understand. They gave me different scenarios that could possibly happen and what the outcomes would possibly be. I will definitely use them again if needed. I am very grateful for their help. Cindy
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4.6
11 Reviews
4.2
33 Reviews
22 Nov, 2024 by Jessica phillips
Don't finish the job.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Vicki antl
02 Oct, 2024 by Jessica seabright
Jill has been very through, knowledgeable, and attentive during a very long and tumultuous family court battle. I believe her quick and assertive professionalism resulted in our successful case. I highly recommend Jill and her team!
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31 Jan, 2025 by Joshua rundle
Super responsive and very knowledgeable about immigration and visas. Would recommend contacting Andrew.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Samuel thomason
David provided my partner and I with some great advice - he is particularly knowledgable when it comes to immigration regarding Australians, but has knowledge of immigration pertaining to other nationalities also.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Mackenzie steinthal
Andrew was incredibly clear and concise in addressing my questions about my visa situation as an Australian relocating to the United States. He took the time to thoroughly explain everything and was extremely patient throughout. I highly recommend him, even for just a phone consultation!
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.2
33 Reviews
22 Nov, 2024 by Jessica phillips
Don't finish the job.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Vicki antl
02 Oct, 2024 by Jessica seabright
Jill has been very through, knowledgeable, and attentive during a very long and tumultuous family court battle. I believe her quick and assertive professionalism resulted in our successful case. I highly recommend Jill and her team!
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02 Jan, 2025 by Cody c loitz
Highly recommend Ryan and his team. Life saver!
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03 Dec, 2024 by J o
Ryan and the entire staff were incredible to work with - knowledgeable, professional, efficient and honest. I truly never thought I would need to hire an attorney, but working with Ryan made the entire legal process less overwhelming and stressful. He goes to bat for you, and is a phenomenal legal strategist. He’s also a compassionate attorney; he builds rapport with his clients and is an excellent communicator. If you find yourself needing legal counsel- you need Ryan on your team. He is a remarkable attorney. I highly recommend Ryan - he will fight for you.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Jenson wilkinson
Ryan Garry was an outstanding lawyer. He always took the time to answer my questions and respond to my messages. Thanks to his efforts, my felony charge was reduced to a misdemeanor with no jail time. I’m incredibly grateful to have had him as my attorney.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Cody c loitz
Highly recommend Ryan and his team. Life saver!
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03 Dec, 2024 by J o
Ryan and the entire staff were incredible to work with - knowledgeable, professional, efficient and honest. I truly never thought I would need to hire an attorney, but working with Ryan made the entire legal process less overwhelming and stressful. He goes to bat for you, and is a phenomenal legal strategist. He’s also a compassionate attorney; he builds rapport with his clients and is an excellent communicator. If you find yourself needing legal counsel- you need Ryan on your team. He is a remarkable attorney. I highly recommend Ryan - he will fight for you.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Jenson wilkinson
Ryan Garry was an outstanding lawyer. He always took the time to answer my questions and respond to my messages. Thanks to his efforts, my felony charge was reduced to a misdemeanor with no jail time. I’m incredibly grateful to have had him as my attorney.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Jackie grinnell
Russell and his team handled our case with precision detail and care. They made the process simple and seamless. I understood everything that was happening and was able to reach out as often as I needed. They kept in touch 100 percent of the time and never left any questions unanswered. I would absolutely go back if ever I need anyone's help again and would recommend them over and over to family..friends and anyone needing their services.
Thank you so much!
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15 Dec, 2024 by Juli pelletier
We contacted Ben to set up a trust / guardianship for our daughter and do a will and trust for my husband and I. After meeting with him three times, he completely ghosted us. No return calls or emails.
Nice guy, not sure I’d recommend him.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Fadumo
Keaton Ostir, Attorney worked on a challenging car accident case for me. He went above and beyond what I initially expected. He was fantastic, staying in close communication with me throughout the entire process. Keaton fought for a good result. I can confidently say that I would use his services again and recommend him to anyone dealing with personal injury. I am truly grateful to Keaton for all his hard work.
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28 Mar, 2024 by Brian fitzgerald
Johanna Clyborne was called as an expert witness by the opposing counsel in my divorce trial. I was pro se (representing myself) and I am not a lawyer. She was supposed to opine on my military pension. She instead offered speculation on my security clearance and nature of separation. She is not an expert witness in either area. Opposing counsel and Johanna tried to pull a fast one. They violated the MN rules of civil procedure by not introducing a her expert witness report prior to trial. After more than an hour of testimony - which I objected to on the grounds of her lack of qualification, speculation, and failure to follow civil procedure - Johanna was dismissed from the stand and all her testimony was stricken from the record. The judge chastised opposing counsel for her lack of competency - which I thought was generous as it seemed very calculated to me rather than legal bumbling. This shameful performance should be cause for Johann's sanction and / or dismissal from the National Guard as she clearly is using her military position as an officer for profit. She is doing this unethically as there is no way she can establish herself as an expert in military pensions (which our judge agreed was true) and apparently pulls this sort of move on veterans as a form of character assassination regularly. @mnnationalguard you paying attention?
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05 Feb, 2024 by Sandy weierke
30 Nov, 2023 by Joyce heiland
16 Jan, 2025 by Ariela cortes
I recommend this Law Firm. Krista made our process smooth and communication was great. She was very clear with any questions I had. Thank you.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Rojo morales
Ustedes si me hicieron mucha ayuda pues la verdad trabajaron muy bien conmigo y todo me ayudaron, y ahorita igual terminado el caso me ayudan y todavia siguen siendo ustedes que me estan ayudando cualquier cosa. Usted Eliana siempre esta pendiente de mi, de nosotros, y eso es lo bueno pues. De hecho antes yo tuve otro abogado y su gente de ellos casi no trabajan pero eso si usted y Matias siempre los otros no trabajaban como ustedes. Yo lo que digo es que usted si ha trabajado bien, a veces uno quiere que alguien le conteste y luego ya rapido ustedes dos contestan. Yo voy a pasar las fiestas con mi hermano aqui el cocinara pozole, espero que ustedes pasen bien.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Jaime duran
Muchas gracias a la abogada arleth por el éxito tan rápido en mi caso al igual estubieron ayudándome Néstor y Matías la vdd son un equipo muy bueno y con una calides humana inmejorable que dios bendiga a ellos y su firma gracia
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Child Support Lawyer Can Do for You
A child support lawyer specializes in legal issues related to the financial support that one parent provides to another for the upbringing of their children. These lawyers assist with establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders, ensuring that the financial needs of the child are met, including housing, food, healthcare, education, and other essentials. A child support lawyer can also represent parents in disputes over the amount of support, ensure fair calculations based on income, and handle legal proceedings if one parent fails to meet their obligations.
Whether you're seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or enforce payments, a child support lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights and the well-being of your child.
When Should I Hire a Child Support Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child support lawyer when you need assistance with any of the following child support matters:
- Establishing child support: If you are going through a divorce or separation and need to establish a child support order, a lawyer can help ensure that the support amount is fair and accurately calculated.
- Modifying child support orders: If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, income change, or a child's financial needs, a lawyer can help you request a modification to the existing child support order.
- Enforcing child support payments: If the other parent has failed to make court-ordered child support payments, a lawyer can help enforce the order through legal means such as wage garnishment, property liens, or even legal action.
- Disputing child support calculations: If you believe the child support amount has been incorrectly calculated based on your income or expenses, a lawyer can help you challenge the calculation and seek a fair adjustment.
- Paternity disputes: If paternity needs to be established before child support can be ordered, a lawyer can assist with DNA testing and legal proceedings.
- Interstate child support cases: If the parents live in different states, navigating child support laws can be complex. A lawyer can help ensure the proper jurisdiction is established and that child support is enforced across state lines.
- Child support during custody disputes: If child custody and child support are being determined simultaneously, a lawyer can help ensure that both issues are resolved fairly and in the best interest of the child.
Hiring a lawyer early can help ensure that your child support case is handled effectively and that your child's financial needs are met.
What Does a Child Support Lawyer Do?
A child support lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents secure, modify, and enforce child support arrangements. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing for child support: A lawyer can help you initiate the legal process to obtain a child support order, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and deadlines are met.
- Calculating child support: A lawyer can help ensure that child support is calculated fairly based on both parents' incomes, the needs of the child, and other factors such as healthcare and education costs.
- Negotiating child support agreements: If both parents are willing to negotiate, a lawyer can help facilitate an agreement on child support outside of court, which can then be approved by a judge.
- Representing you in court: If negotiations fail or the other parent contests the child support amount, a lawyer will represent you in family court, presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Modifying support orders: A lawyer can help you file a request for modification if circumstances change, such as a loss of income or an increase in the child’s financial needs.
- Enforcing child support: If the other parent is not making court-ordered payments, a lawyer can take legal steps to enforce the order through wage garnishment, property liens, or other measures.
- Handling complex cases: In cases involving high incomes, self-employment, or complicated financial situations, a lawyer can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered in determining child support.
How Are Child Support Lawyers Paid?
Child support lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work required. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child support lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. The total cost will depend on how much time the lawyer spends on your case, including preparation, negotiations, and court appearances.
- Flat fee: For more straightforward cases, such as uncontested child support agreements or basic modifications, some lawyers may offer a flat fee that covers all services related to the case.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount of the retainer depends on the expected complexity of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or provide pro bono (free) services in cases where clients cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially when children’s needs are at stake.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are covered.
How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child support lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it's contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested child support cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and the lawyer’s fees.
- Contested child support cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, especially if the case involves significant court time.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for child support cases, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases that involve complex financial issues.
- Modification or enforcement: Fees for modifying or enforcing a child support order may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity and the need for court intervention.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Support Lawyer
Before hiring a child support lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with child support cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support orders. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and any potential challenges you may face. -
How long will the process take?
Child support cases can take time, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors may cause delays. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
What documents should I prepare?
Ask the lawyer what financial documents and other information you should bring to help them calculate child support and build your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Support Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child support lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and have successfully handled child support cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on child support matters.
- Check for certifications: Some lawyers may have certifications in family law or membership in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), which can indicate their expertise in child support and family law issues.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a child support lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Income documents: Bring pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or any other documentation of your income and the other parent’s income, as this will be used to calculate child support.
- Existing child support orders: If there are any existing child support or custody orders, bring copies for the lawyer to review.
- Child-related expenses: Provide documentation of your child’s medical bills, education expenses, daycare costs, and any other expenses that should be factored into the child support calculation.
- Communication with the other parent: Bring any communication between you and the other parent regarding child support, whether through emails, text messages, or written agreements.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions about your case, the legal process, and the lawyer’s fees.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
