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10 Apr, 2024 by Cory whalen
I have been a practicing personal injury lawyer for 25 years. I send all my workers' compensation referrals to Karl von Reuter. Karl is absolutely great with clients and is a tenacious litigator. I highly recommend Karl von Reuter for workers' compensation cases.
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11 Nov, 2023 by Chris johnson
Best lawyer I've ever worked with all he wanted was what was best for me he actually listens to you and is very helpful getting you through the process of dealing with work comp and he's a great guy I enjoyed every conversation we had he doesn't sugar coat anything and he tells you what to expect and cares about his clients well being Definitely recommend him to anyone who had to deal with workers compensation
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09 Jun, 2023 by Maria brundy
Karl is awsome! Highly recommend. My brother referred me to him after I fell and broke my back. He has not quit working on my case.
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10 Jun, 2023 by Gail watterson
11 Aug, 2022 by Tina vinton
Tammy is a knowledgeable, fair, and strong attorney. 10 stars.
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06 Oct, 2020 by Joe buck
The best ladies under the moon & sun.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Nelly pizano
Para mi son los mejores agradesida con Dios y a paschal por tanto 🙏
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23 Jul, 2024 by Abby rions
They are very professional they helped me with my case and a few others friends also well prepared paralegals. Just make sure you call several times because they’re so busy and have too many calls at once. Just be patient and keep calling.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Gio guillen
Excelente firma de abogados y muy profesionales, gracias a ellos pude obtener mi residencia y en todo momento Jamison y Nysha me orientaron en cualquier duda que yo o mi esposa tuvieramos, a pesar de nosotros estar en otro estado a la distancia ellos lo hicieron posible.
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26 Apr, 2023 by Daniel mueller
Beau is incredibly knowledgeable, works with compassion and provided the needed perspective for the friend who needed help. Thank you.
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24 Sep, 2022 by M jert
05 Apr, 2022 by Lisa gjersvik
It was a pleasure working with Beau Hartman of Hartman Law Office. He made the process of marriage dissolution painless, from a legal perspective. He was very easy to work with and was very timely with everything he had control over. So glad with my decision to use Hartman Law.
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19 Feb, 2024 by Adam martin
Fantastic people and place to meet
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01 Apr, 2020 by Jamison whiting
08 Oct, 2019 by Eric olson
19 Sep, 2024 by Heather gross
12 Sep, 2024 by Tinajane
Bernice is wonderful! She listened, had patience and cared. She is all around fantastic!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Katie bursey
I had a wonderful experience with the attorney. He is very helpful, helped me understand my rights and be able to communicate well with my legal issues. In all honesty I highly recommend working with this firm! Thank you!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jodi krinkie
I would not recommend the attorney Bob Howard to represent you. He was the most dishonest attorney I ever had to represent us. Gave us false information in a third party custody case. He misrepresented the case to us, but charged us an astronomical amount for doing nothing. After wasting two years on the case and giving us false information . He told us that both parents had to agree on legal custody or adoption. Which was false information they just had to be served that the grandparents were filing for legal custody. My husband and I ended up representing ourselves in court with the help form the attorney at the Anoka county law library. That is how we found out that Bob Howard lied to us just to get our money!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Julie weekley
Robert helped me out during a very difficult time in my life. I was going through a divorce, and he was very professional, compassionate and did not needlessly string things out in an effort to take advantage financially. Many attorneys get a bad rap for doing shady work and wanting to "stick it" to the other party. Robert does not work in that way. He stayed focused on what I needed and wanted and got the job done. I would recommend consulting with him in your process of finding a good attorney.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Laura sanford
Bob was very responsive, respectful and compassionate. He assisted me with a child support conflict where I was not receiving appropriate funds as a result of my ex not paying what was required by law. He was very knowledgable, professional and calm when the situation required it. Bob helped me keep things in perspective and ensured I received what was due. I would highly recommend his service.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Tells clients to do illegal things in divorce. His knowledge on divorce is very limited. He is extremely cunning and manipulative, as if you don't do what he tells you he will drop you as a client.
He trespasses on the other clients property and thinks it's fine as he is learning info about the other subject. He had lied in his affidavit months judge about the divorce. Stay far away from this unexpirenced lawyer. He will only bring trouble to you. Also, he rips you out of all your money, somethings were even charged twice on the bill.
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10 Feb, 2018 by Dawn
I was extremely happy with the business contract Spencer drafted for me. He was quick to return my phone calls to gather information, clarify any questions and concerns. I appreciated his guidance and explanation of legal jargon. I felt that he was not only looking out for my business but also my rights as a person. I also appreciated that he asked me what I wanted and expected. He is patient, reasureing and encouraging. Could asked for a better experience.
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26 Mar, 2017 by James mattson
12 Sep, 2024 by Amanda poehls
Bill takes a little getting used to. He’s going to tell you it like it is. He’s a nice enough guy who’s a bit brash but easy to get along with. Leah, his assistant, is an absolute gem.
If you want Bill to get back to you, well, I hope you’re prepared to wait. And there are items that need to be resolved which can be overlooked if you don’t know what to look for.
I wasn’t completely satisfied with the outcome, but Bill was a lifesaver in a time when I had nowhere to turn.
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05 Sep, 2024 by J bourgeois
If you are innocent and you are relying on Gerry to defend you, you are making a big mistake. The prosecutors in this county are far more skilled than what Gerry brings to the table. Gerry also doesn’t disclose to clients that he is also a public defender.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Keith williams
I had an excellent experience with Nicolet Law. They provided me with invaluable advice and guidance regarding my situation, making what could have been a stressful process much more manageable. The entire team was incredibly supportive and professional throughout.
Even though I live in Texas, the distance was never an issue. Nicolet Law kept me consistently updated on the progress, ensuring that I always knew where things stood. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance—they truly go above and beyond for their clients.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Michael stiff
They are my heroes!
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16 Jul, 2024 by Glen bickford jr
Great people, amazing communication!
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15 Jul, 2024 by Francisco c
Great experience working with Kohlmeyer Hagen! I've been translating on behalf of a family member who only speaks spanish and Chris Cain and his assistant Taylor specifically have been wonderful in responsiveness, specificity, and clarity in their communications both while dealing with the case as well as afterwards. Awesome job!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Kyle f
Took a long time, but he was persistent enough to get me a great deal in my case. Definitely looking out for what's best, not just a quick cash grab. Highly recommended.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Daniel
Andrew went above and beyond to help me sort out my legal issues. He fielded questions via email and took my phone calls even though it was the holiday season. Straight forward and helpful throughout the process. Highly recommend his services
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08 Jul, 2024 by Chelsae erkkila
29 Oct, 2023 by Erin ipsen-borgersen
21 Oct, 2023 by Hope tims
Steven was very helpful. He didn’t give up on my case and saw it through to the end!
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09 Aug, 2023 by Dawn b
I was pregnant 🤰🏾 and I was in a car collision where I was rear ended. I was pretty banged up because not only was I pregnant but it was also winter as well. Adam and his Team are so professional and experienced. I truly appreciate the effort they put forth during the full process of my case. They made sure I got everything I needed to heal and get better faster. They were knowledgeable about the care and where I would need to go in order to get better faster. They work with the best of the best of care for their clients. I would highly recommend Adam to anyone who has been in a car accident. I was fairly, honestly and handsomely compensated for my pain and suffering.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Sterling concrete & masonry, llc
Anna was amazing! She is a very aggressive, compassionate lawyer who goes above and beyond for her clients. You're not just a number there, you're #1! Thank you so much! - A loving father
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11 Jul, 2024 by Sharron
I wish I didn't have to give any stars. this attorney is horrible, her response time is 1-2 weeks. YES! she will take your retainer. not bill until the retainer is depleted then a week before court tell you she quits unless the retainer is replenished. she was worthless to our case. I would suggest you Run Run Run as fast as you can... you won't be represented well by Anna Prettyman!
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10 Jul, 2024 by Musa usman
Just wanted to give my sincere gratitude and appreciation to Brian Louis and Jillian Morris of Martine Law who successfully legally represented me through one of the worst and scariest moments of my life. If you need any legal counsel within the family court/family law arena they are the best! The amount of support, communication, empathy and vast knowledge of the legal system was tremendous. Thank you so much!
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14 Sep, 2023 by Chris stemig
Very knowledgeable and very helpful in my Father's case! His expertise and years of experience in worker's comp claims showed through on the case. Thank you for your hard work!
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07 Jun, 2023 by Kit
Outstanding MN work comp lawyer. HIGHLY recommend after assisting my husband with his claim.
Thank you!
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16 May, 2022 by Eli jason
Thank you David, you are a true professional. I would highly recommend you. Experience matters in these cases and your knowledge and skills are unmatched.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Linda guerue
30 Jul, 2022 by Shawna marshall
Great service! Knowledgeable and dedicated
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08 Mar, 2022 by Shirley akkerman
Great service!
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4.6
11 Reviews
4.3
29 Reviews
26 Jun, 2024 by Jeremy friese
Jill is practical, professional, and talented. Do everything you can to avoid divorce - but if it becomes the best thing for you and your family, call Jill.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Jessie senst
Jill, and her team, did an amazing job start to finish. She was efficient and kept the case moving forward. She is fair, direct, and doesn’t miss detail. She was able to help us settle in mediation to avoid the cost of court. I would highly recommend Jill and her team, for anyone looking for good representation in Family Law.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Josee prudhomme
Very pleasant staff members, they’re easy to work with!
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5.0
1 Reviews
4.3
29 Reviews
26 Jun, 2024 by Jeremy friese
Jill is practical, professional, and talented. Do everything you can to avoid divorce - but if it becomes the best thing for you and your family, call Jill.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Jessie senst
Jill, and her team, did an amazing job start to finish. She was efficient and kept the case moving forward. She is fair, direct, and doesn’t miss detail. She was able to help us settle in mediation to avoid the cost of court. I would highly recommend Jill and her team, for anyone looking for good representation in Family Law.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Josee prudhomme
Very pleasant staff members, they’re easy to work with!
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08 Jul, 2024 by J s
Horrible quality and even worse value.
I was out of town for a week and they sent me a "hurry up" email. They charged me $40 for sending that. I said yes, we should talk; when are you available. They charged me $40. They sent an email with 2 available times. They charged me $40. I chose one. They charged me $40. For no legal advice, it cost $160.
The legal advice was worse. I switched to another attorney who caught several issues they had missed in just 1 hour.
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15 Mar, 2023 by Patrick o'rourke
Excellent 👍
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03 May, 2022 by Steven mader
VERY EXPENSIVE!
And sadly not at all helpful. Ran me around in circles while charging me and in the end I'm back to were I started. Would not recommend them to anyone.
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13 Feb, 2024 by Nikki smith
19 Jan, 2024 by Cassandra hammitt
I started my divorce process back in 2020. Mallory was amazing every step of the way. Mallory has a great knack for taking your thoughts and helps word them appropriately so they make sense and convey what you want to say. She is also a great advocate for her clients, shows empathy and makes sure clients understand the possible outcomes of each path. I couldn't have made it through this 3 year process without her and the wonderful paralegal staff.
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14 Oct, 2023 by Jill johnson
This firm was wonderful. Kim Prchal was my attorney and did a fantastic job representing me. She won the case I was involved in. I highly recommend her. She works very hard and very professional. I would absolutely have her represent me again. You will not be disappointed.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Alexis pavon
16 Apr, 2024 by Mitchell wilkinson
Great service. Highly recommend.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Maria portillo
25 Apr, 2024 by Larry bitz
Great law office to work with, very helpful and thorough.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Josh bloom
Super helpful.
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17 Oct, 2023 by Lisa leblanc
20 Apr, 2017 by Jenna nepper
I hired Tiff over 10 years ago and would recommend her. She is sharp. She knows what issues to argue and what issues to settle. She will give you a straight forward response and not run your bill.
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15 Oct, 2013 by Elizabeth
Ms. Wolter handled our family law case with tremendous professionalism. She was knowledgeable, prompt, and very responsive to our needs. Not being attorneys, we were unsure of how to proceed with our issues, who to trust, and how long it would take. Of course, finances were also an issue. Ms. Wolter treated us with respect and kindness.
One can feel like they are caught in a maze when trying to sort out legal issues and when dealing with the court. Ms. Wolter smoothed our way for us and left us feeling well taken care of. To her, we were not a number or anonymous people. We were individuals with a problem that she promptly solved.
I would hire Ms. Wolter in a second if I ever needed her services again.
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14 Oct, 2013 by Joe
I hired Tifanne for a child support case and was extremely satisfied with her knowledge, attention to detail, and communication skills. I was so much less nervous after working with her and was very, very happy with the outcome of my case. I would hire her again in a heartbeat.
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27 Apr, 2021 by Dj
Jim did not provide me with all of my options as his client. I was unaware of a Karon Waiver, I was the primary income earner, and I was never presented the option of having an "expert financial review" or "vocational evaluation" done on my Ex. I spoke to another Attorney who said I should have these two things done, and when I said that is what I wanted, my case was resolved very quickly and signed by the Judge about 3 weeks later. Jim is a very nice man, but I cannot recommend him as a Divorce Attorney.
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21 Apr, 2021 by Savannah
Jim has always been so upfront about costs and what to expect during our custody case. I truly believe he has the children’s best interest in mind during everything. He is very responsive and walked me through everything. If you want a lawyer who truly cares, Jim is your guy! Can’t say enough good things about him.
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26 Jan, 2021 by Taylor
I highly recommend Jim Williamson. I have, unfortunately, worked with a handful of family law attorneys and I can honestly say that Jim is the best! He was supportive, honest, and always considerate of my end goal for myself and my family. Stop looking for an attorney, Jim is your guy!
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31 May, 2017 by Pete
Brian, took on my case knowing full well he had no background in the legal area I was requesting. I was assured many times by Brian that he was " a great attorney", but I never saw it. Brian made one mistake after the next and then when he made a mistake he would never own up to it. The real issue is that he put me in a horrible position with his lack of experience as it relates to my case. Beware Brian has a huge ego and will not tell you no.
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22 Sep, 2016 by Julie mcmahon
My case is many years old and an ugly, non-stop custody battle. Michelle his paralegel and Brian Sobel at McGrann & Shea have been wonderful to work with. Brian was and is, unflappable! Aggressive when necessary, and seeks the truth. He is kind and compassionate about the importance of the parent/child bond and will advocate for that. He has a BA in psychology and was on the Cornerstone board and brings that knowledge and experience to the case. Alienating tactics of parties will not be tolerated on his watch. My friend Carrie K. recommended Brian Sobel to me when my ex maneuvered through fabricated events "temporary custody." Brian Sobel is methodical in his approach. It takes a long time to move through the family court process but I can sit back now and relax. A highly skilled professional will argue the law and fight for me to see my kids. I highly recommend Brian Sobel for contentious custody cases especially when opposing counsel is outrageous.
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07 Mar, 2014 by Barbara
After Brian negotiated my divorce settlement, my ex-husband, surprisingly, delivered the highest compliment, stating "Brian was brilliant."
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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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18 Jul, 2024 by Kim musech
Aaron Decker addressed our concerns immediately and gave us in depth advice as how to proceed. He answered our questions quickly and was able to have a favorable resolution within 10 days, that allowed us to protect ourselves. I highly recommend Aaron and his team! Top notch legal services for an affordable cost.
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03 May, 2024 by Nadine mayer
I have been working with JoAnn and Lisa the last 3 years for family law matters. They are phenomenal to work with. They both are very prompt and thorough. JoAnn’s knowledge, understanding, confidence, and willingness to call me out on my stuff has given me more peace of mind and confidence in very stressful situations. Joann is the best family law attorney I have worked with. She is great and looking at the big picture and keeps me grounded and reasonable. Joann is very professional and goes over and above. I am very grateful for her. I would only recommend her and her law firm to people as you wouldn’t find someone better than her to help with a family law matter. It is always important to have confidence in the person helping in family matters and I am very confident in her.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Joseph walters
They withdrew as my counsel 4 days before my hearing, did not attempt to help with a continuance, did not say they were sorry. They then logged into the courts efile system under another attorneys name, lied to the court, and withdrew my attorney from representing me. This action is flirting with unethical practices and I will be complaining to the bar and board of professionals. Public record also shows that evenson decker is currently being sued for malpractice. RUN AWAY FROM THIS FIRM!!!
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5.0
20 Reviews
3.7
22 Reviews
01 May, 2024 by Gemma blankley
Thank you JOHN BURNS and Dawn, for helping me through this tough time and aiding a new beginning of our lives.
Your strategic approach and attention to detail were truly exceptional. Your unwavering support and professionalism not only won my case but also brought great relief during a challenging time.
I am immensely thankful for your hard work and commitment. Thank you again for your dedication and for ensuring the best possible outcome on my behalf. Your services are greatly respected and recommended.
Thanks,
Gemma.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Leo frandrup
John was referred to me by a former classmate. John the lawyer, and Ben the paralegal were there for me going though a nasty divorce. They and the others in the office made you comfortable and feel at home. They were there every step of the way. John will do the best he can for you with truth and honesty.
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13 Jan, 2024 by Jsv
This guy John Burns jr is a fraud and a joke. He claims he is for father’s rights on his website and more. Yet he rather help pad his pocket and help take a kid from a great father. Straight scum and any client should run from this liar. So many proven records to show and will expose him. Will be talking to the bar and showing you shouldn’t be a lawyer. Masquerading an an attorney for fathers rights. Yet you only take mostly women clients. I hope anyone take notice and run. Fathers deserve better.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Linda anderson
03 Aug, 2022 by Terry johnson
13 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
I had no idea what to expect when going here. I know many businessman and business in the metro that use him and have for years. He left for Alaska years ago, came back and people still refer individuals his way. I think he owns the buildimg he operates out of and runs a straight forward ship. He is literally zero BS. If you're not transparent when interfacing with him he'll shoot it to you straight. Long term success and repeatable customers made it an easy choice to give him a chance and his performance makes it easy to return. By comparison he is very fair priced and I think he can be because of his fiscal responsibility overall. Zero surprises, very responsive. Go watch him in action. Easy choice.
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4.6
20 Reviews
4.2
50 Reviews
04 Oct, 2024 by Kari
Lisa is a fierce advocate for her clients. Midway through my case, I switched attorneys and I am so glad I did. Lisa provided insights and expertise that were critical to turning my case around and repairing my reputation with the court. Adaptable and flexible, Lisa was able to pivot quickly as the need arose and come up with creative solutions. Working together, Lisa and Chris draw on each others strengths and are a powerful force. I highly recommend Banas Law for child custody.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Christian ovalle
02 Jul, 2024 by Victoria stepanek
Chris always had my back and in the end I got what I wanted and more! Chris is definitely the one to call. He worked with me on so many things and I couldn’t have been any happier!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Ellie klugherz
08 Jul, 2024 by Kathy volkmann
People are very friendly and knowledgeable.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Chris schmahl
Jeff kept me informed through the whole process. Pleasant to work with and affordable all things considered.
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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.
