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23 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired at the tail end of a difficult case to preserve my appellate rights. She took my original case filed and rather than copy and return, kept it. She came unprepared to my primary trial and forced me to withdraw my primary case. She never explained the second part of the case nor gave me guidance. Then with no notice she withdrew 6 days prior to trial. She refused to provide me anything from the date she was retained, nor would she bring me up to speed. Knowing I would ask for a continuance, after she withdrew, she emailed the judge and opposing counsel disparaging me. At trial the Judge would not grant a continuance so I had to proceed with no time to prepare and none of my exhibits as she had not returned them. I had to waste an entire day I needed to prepare to subpoena my primary witness, and they told me at trial my attorney kept talking to them, told them they could ignore the time period I requested a review of. I believe it is against the law for her to keep interfering with my case, and a breach of attorney client confidentiality. Stay far away from her if you value your case.
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10 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Mary represented me in family law and did a great job. So happy I found her.
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29 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
The dedication and intelligence needed for our case was not lacking in the least. We needed an advocate, we made a friend. Our family law case involved numerous court dates and correspondences between the parties of which Mary aided in clarifying what was important when. We may not have always agreed on the direction but by following her advice, as she was more knowledgeable in the arena than we were, we are grateful for her tenacity. If experience and willingness to "find out" is essential, then consider having Mary sitting beside you taking the notes.
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06 May, 2024 by Peju nordvik
Now I know why this law firm has a 2.9 review. people, believe the reviews!
Pro: Sarah, the Paralegal, was such a nice person, great conversation and timely response.
Now lets get to Mr. Nate or Nathan
Con: 1. he autocorrected my name to "peru"... okay, I can see that happening.
2. I painstakingly filled the form, got to the phone call and this is how it went
He was talking about will, trust, power of attorney etc. (keep in mind he already knows my family's worth), and like educated people that we are, we had questions (plus, he was speaking fast too, so I had to halt him to repeat some things). Please ask me why after the 2nd question this "fragile ego entity" decided to tell me I was arguing with him and if I wanted to argue he can't be our lawyer. I was stunned (like where did this come from). And my husband was like :we are just asking questions because we are not the expert and wanted to understand. And he literally said (and I kid you not) I'm not used to people asking me questions right out of the gate ( "sigh in my ancestor's language). Anyway, I just told him, "if you already feel this way just after two questions, how would we be able to ask you questions in the future if we don't understand something. I don't think you are the best fit then". Needless to say, he was like "metlife will find you another lawyer". Dude, I spent hours going through lawyers, no one did the work. Anyway, whatever is wrong with this Nate, he needs to go get some "communication 101" course on his learning path.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Qarni awais
29 Oct, 2023 by Theresa hopkins
18 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
If you are a father and have a high conflict ex who does everything in her power to limit or stop your parenting time, do not use this woman as a parental consultant. She will follow the mothers visitation agreement to a T, but will change yours to fit what the mother wants. She charges attorney fees. Fathers, just take your ex back to court and get more parenting time Ordered. Get a lawyer and don’t waste your money on this lady.
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15 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
She sugar coated everything and mislead me at the beginning. She was favoring the other party. She wasted my money and messed up my case.
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14 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Did nothing except send emails and bogus phone call and was charging $250 an hour for a work that could have been done by an office clerk.
She was siding with the other party.
What kind of lawyer do this???
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3.5
2 Reviews
3.0
2 Reviews
02 Sep, 2021 by Tom nelson
I've left 2 emails & 3 voicemails asking him to get in touch with me,, he hasn't updated his answering machine from August 2021. I get that he may be a busy person but how hard is it to return a voicemail/email saying you won't be able to help with my situation.
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26 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Kari is a great attorney who zealously represented me during my divorce. She is very knowledgeable and represented me in a very professional manner. She has pride in her work and takes the time to show that she cares for me (her client). Kari responds immediately to emails and phone calls. Kari consulted with prior to any court proceeding to ensure that she represented my interests and wishes. She is very passionate about her work, the law and serving her clients. Her rates are very reasonable and I would highly recommend her for any family law or estate case.
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16 Jun, 2018 by Paulette meuffels
He knows what he is doing, good man!!
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22 Mar, 2024 by Lula paloozah
Always taking "vacations" with your money. Stalls, does a lot of "busy work" and slick talking to make sure it looks like he's doing something. Commits perjury overall good lawyer if you are a deadbeat trying to make it look like you are not.
So really 3 stars.
but 1 star for honest parents.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Joshua jacob
Hello I'm a single father and the twin cities. My son's mother has made it very difficult for me to be in my son's life. I speak from experience. Travis is a true gladiator! When representing his clients he spares no expense when fighting for you to be in your child's life. It is an honor to recommend him at the highest levels of expectation. Fortunately for me I have Travis on my side who has years of practice in the justice system, and has the experience and not just family law, business law, and criminal defense law with a appellate court practice. Literally at One stop shop. He takes the time to explain best possible outcomes, as well as the realities of least possible outcomes. In addition to this his retainer and hourly rate are very reasonable. I strongly recommend his services and legal support to anyone in my network in need of the best representation in the legal market. Thank you for reading!
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04 Nov, 2023 by Jackie holton
Doesn't send itemized bills..... takes your retainer doesn't follow through or answer calls.Also previous history and got in trouble for this very behavior.......uses his divorce and sons story to make u feel he relates.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Lula paloozah
Always taking "vacations" with your money. Stalls, does a lot of "busy work" and slick talking to make sure it looks like he's doing something. Commits perjury overall good lawyer if you are a deadbeat trying to make it look like you are not.
So really 3 stars.
but 1 star for honest parents.
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06 Nov, 2023 by Joshua jacob
Hello I'm a single father and the twin cities. My son's mother has made it very difficult for me to be in my son's life. I speak from experience. Travis is a true gladiator! When representing his clients he spares no expense when fighting for you to be in your child's life. It is an honor to recommend him at the highest levels of expectation. Fortunately for me I have Travis on my side who has years of practice in the justice system, and has the experience and not just family law, business law, and criminal defense law with a appellate court practice. Literally at One stop shop. He takes the time to explain best possible outcomes, as well as the realities of least possible outcomes. In addition to this his retainer and hourly rate are very reasonable. I strongly recommend his services and legal support to anyone in my network in need of the best representation in the legal market. Thank you for reading!
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04 Nov, 2023 by Jackie holton
Doesn't send itemized bills..... takes your retainer doesn't follow through or answer calls.Also previous history and got in trouble for this very behavior.......uses his divorce and sons story to make u feel he relates.
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21 Mar, 2023 by Steve johnson
Terrible, look elsewhere. She will extend out the process as long as she can and charge alot of money along the way. She is not trustworthy, do not believe in what she says, nearly all of it turns out to be lies in the end
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11 Nov, 2022 by Mitch ko
09 Jan, 2022 by Cheri coleman
07 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Erin was very attentive and knowledgeable during my divorce process. She was supportive and kind as well which is important during a divorce. She took time to calmly explain things that were happening during the entire process when things were confusing and stressful. She was willing to listen and was responsive to emails, messages and phone calls. She was a much needed voice of reason during a very difficult time for myself and my family. I would highly recommend her services. Her office and support staff are also friendly and professional.
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01 Jul, 2014 by S
After years of working with Erin on grand parenting rights ,she did get them for me. However after tens of thousands of dollars in attorney and court fees ,Erin would not file my stayed order of con-tempt on the other party that would"nt follow the court order.Erin sent me a letter of withdrawal of counsel notice. My on going battle with other party still a nightmare, broke without counsel.
:
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10 Oct, 2013 by Linda
If I had to pick just a couple words for Erin I'd choose intelligent, strategic, and honest. She was incredibly thoughtful about picking strategies that worked in my case--she knew when and how hard to push, when to wait and not "take the bait," and when to change approaches. I had an ex who was abusive and continued those tactics through the legal system, to the extent possible, and she kept me calm through what was a really dark time, I am lucky she was my guide and advocate through it. And we won! I'd recommend her to anyone in a child custody/child support case.
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01 Feb, 2019 by Trevor
I retained Niecie M Strand after having 2 previous lawyers in my high conflict divorce. I wish I had retained Niecie right from the start, for she was given a tough situation with a lot to cover in a short amont of time. She went to work, and work she did. There were several times when Niecie and myself would be on the phone discussing my divorce, and she would have an email sent out to me, the Judge and the Petitoner’s side, ready to review, before we got off the phone. I know that sounds unrealistic but it the truth or close to it. She is Sharp, and on top of it in mediation, court or any situation that came up. Niecie also has the ability to negotiate hard on your behave, she’s not just a middle man. She is tough, Gritty, and will go to bat for you. I now set the bar at her standards if I ever need a lawyer again. I highly recommend Niecie M Stand to anyone in a divorce and hire her early.
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13 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Not only did my fiancé not get what he wanted! But they clearly seem to favor the opposing side! And to think we paid 3,000 up front for what ?! He didn’t even get what he wanted. And they’re asking for an additional 900$, do not go with Cordell! Was not worth it only thing that can happen is if they can actually give my fiancé his money worth! Doubt that’ll happen though.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Nate mitchell
I hired one of the partners. Awful and incompetent. Recommendation given to judge was not possible under statute and was essentially thrown out. Waste of money. Biased. Don’t hire
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10 Mar, 2024 by Melisa mauricio
Matt Beaumier and his team are so kind and helpful. They truly care about the clients. They answered all my questions and concerns with care. I couldn’t have made it through my custody case without them. I highly recommend them.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Paul
Mr. (Daryl) Bail is a joke. Hiring him means you're overpaying for legal services and there are plenty of other better lawyers in the area that cost THOUSANDS less. No sense of ethics whatsoever. He's openly disclosed to other people the amounts of money he has drained from his clients. Client confidentiality means nothing to this guy. I totally get why he's not a named partner at PHB. He'd ruin the firm's reputation. When looking for a law firm to represent you I suggest looking anywhere else.
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10 May, 2024 by Francisco menchaca
I was very pleased how everything turned out to be. I’m not going to lie, I was very nervous and scared for the worst and thought that I didn’t have a chance. But with the help with my lawyer and the whole team from Patton Hoversten And Berg this wouldn’t be possible. So I want to give a huge Thank You to Joe Heinrichs and Andrea Lembke for helping me get through this all the way, none of this would be possible if it wasn’t for you guys. Thank you Patton Hoversten And Berg!
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13 Dec, 2023 by Cindy moll
I had to appear in court for speeding. I hired this firm, and my case was assigned to Joe Heinrichs. Mr. Heinrichs was knowledgeable, professional, and effective. I believe Mr. Heinrichs secured the best possible outcome for me. I would recommend this firm, and especially Mr. Heinrichs to anyone in a heartbeat. I even thought the fee was reasonable.
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08 Apr, 2024 by Takeysha robinson
I've been waiting 2 almost 3 years to get assistance with my divorce. They contacted me several months ago saying I'm on top of the list. I haven't heard from anyone since I've left several messages. This is ridiculous at this point!
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05 Jan, 2024 by Lovey-4ever angelique
Very helpful and kind.
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16 Aug, 2023 by Maureen lauer
No response to my message. I will continue to leave more. Disappointing.
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27 Oct, 2022 by Carlos maldonado
If you are considering hiring this Law firm and you love your family, I urge to reconsider, read all the reviews bellow this one they are really bad, She (Julie Seymour ) it states things we didn't agree and didn't talk being a lawyer you should judge for your self, I will let you judge this situation and consider if its a good fit for your family. A person that doesn't pay her house cleaners to threat, don't respect agreements and change them to her convenience. I strongly recommend consider doing buissnes with this law firm. You can judge people how they behave with others and most important if its in your own home and family.
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05 Feb, 2021 by Robin johnson
Spent thousands of dollars and got nowhere. Lawyer was doing her own thing in her time. I didn’t feel she was working for me or my sons best interests. I do not recommend this law office
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03 May, 2019 by Samuel ireri
Initially I retained Julie as my attorney and ended up getting Mary. They promised alot but didn't deliver to expectation. She missed child support court date. Of all court appearances....I walked in thinking I was would have my lawyer with me but no one was there, no counter motions were filed as expected and as promised.
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27 Oct, 2022 by Carlos maldonado
If you are considering hiring this Law firm and you love your family, I urge to reconsider, read all the reviews bellow this one they are really bad, She (Julie Seymour ) it states things we didn't agree and didn't talk being a lawyer you should judge for your self, I will let you judge this situation and consider if its a good fit for your family. A person that doesn't pay her house cleaners to threat, don't respect agreements and change them to her convenience. I strongly recommend consider doing buissnes with this law firm. You can judge people how they behave with others and most important if its in your own home and family.
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05 Feb, 2021 by Robin johnson
Spent thousands of dollars and got nowhere. Lawyer was doing her own thing in her time. I didn’t feel she was working for me or my sons best interests. I do not recommend this law office
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03 May, 2019 by Samuel ireri
Initially I retained Julie as my attorney and ended up getting Mary. They promised alot but didn't deliver to expectation. She missed child support court date. Of all court appearances....I walked in thinking I was would have my lawyer with me but no one was there, no counter motions were filed as expected and as promised.
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22 May, 2021 by Nicoleva vu
20 Jan, 2020 by Thomas vue
Was expecting more with the money he asked for.
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06 Aug, 2019 by John doe
He lost my case. Not so sure if it was intentional or it's just that he's not good enough. It's a waste of money if you ask me. Maybe it was the way that the system was set up... His ex-partner is the same.
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14 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Referee Baker oversaw my divorce case. Right from the beginning she showed extreme impatience, and favoritism. There was a double set of standards whereas one side consistently violated the stipulations, yet when brought to her attention, no enforcement was taken. Yet when the opposing side was simply late on filing and contested, she immediately ruled in favor and gave short timeliness. Tens of thousands of dollars were wasted in legal fees in providing undeniable facts, yet she took the position of it no longer matters. It was simply unbelievable to see how consistently she would make rulings on minuscule issues of little concern, yet turn a blind eye to other huge financial issues of squandered resources by the opposing party. I have dealt with many referees in settling many small claim actions regarding unpaid client accounts over decades of business management, and by far she has clearly displayed bias regardless of the facts presented. One thing for sure, you will win or lose simply based upon one thing right from the beginning. Which Attorney & Client does she favor. The facts otherwise are irrelevant.
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14 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Gail told me I did not have to take off work for the court date, she would be there to handle everything.
She didn't even show up and of course I lost.
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27 Sep, 2013 by Robin/kesha
No communication throughout the process, Never tried to protect my child even though abuser was charged with felony. Worked against me with all issues. Was late twice to court leaving me very anxious at the start of the court proceedings. Would not listen to my concerns. Always seemed to be for the other side. Very disorganized and seemed nervous when opposing attorney presented lies against me.
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10 Feb, 2011 by Georgette
I think Tricia would like to do a good job, but lacks experience and doesn't listen to the client. Hurt our case more than helped. Wish I could say that she was great.
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30 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Seven months into my custody battle (and a ridiculous $22K spent with little to show for it), Mr Rolsch started ignoring all communication. He then suddenly withdrew during a VERY critical time in my case, leaving me with no Atty or money. I am obviously not happy with his services and do not recommend him. His legal assistant however, is great!
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20 Nov, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Steve to represent me in my child custody case. At the time I had no idea that he was the same attorney that represented my uncle in a divorce were my he lost almost everything. He also grew up with the opposing party in my custody case. I had thought that he was a genuine straight up attorney that was good at his job. I took out a loan for $3,000 and that was gone in no time but I thought to myself that custody cases are expensive and that is the way it has to be. Another $5,000 and I now owe him a thousand still. We never once made it to court and he was sitting there billing me for calls he never had to make to me in the first place because he knew my answer to settling. I smartened up and got another attorney to handle the rest of my case. I hope as many people as possible get a chance to read this before they hire him. I also plan on speaking to an attorney about taking him to court to be repaid the money that was spent on the services that he did not deliver on. To all I wish the best. God Bless You.
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24 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
I'm not just a bitter former client I can justify my rating. Trustworthy, I had to call Mr rolsch to remind him of my court date in which we never ended up speaking with each other prior to that date. Responsive, Months went by without speaking with Mr rolsch and when I would try to call him the only response I would get was a $75 bill for listening to my voice mail but never did hear from him. Knowledgeable, he billed me for hours and hours of research for a dwi case. That is the bread and butter of any defense attorney, why would he need to spend that much time researching unless he was just padding the bill. He never did come up with even a remote defense plan even after I offered a few avenues which I still regret pursuing after speaking with other attorneys. Kept me informed, I was never even sure he would show up in court not to mention have anything to tell me about my case.
BEWARE
when I first spoke with Mr rolsch I explained to him that I could pay him only an agreed upon amount (already 2 times higher than everyone else) he said that was fine unless we had to go to trial. Six months after my case was over I received a bill for 3 times that amount. He ended up taking me to small claims for it. When I showed up for court I found that the entire courtroom was filled with his former clients with the same story. I was always told you pay for what you get and that's why I went with rolsch but there isn't one aspect of his business conduct I would recommend.
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30 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
The prior reviewer's comments are spot on in every way. From her unprofessional and combative manner to her unsubstantiated accussations to her lack of listening skills, she not only exacerbated the ill will between me and my ex but simultaneously damaged my poor children for whom she was supposedly advocating for as parenting consultant. She is downright rude, doesn't discern fact from fiction, can't recall her own decisions even though she authored them, and lacks follow through. She overly inserts herself into the case matters and creates issues instead of resolving them....why? Why not? From her perspective each set of co parents is viewed as a revenue stream. It isn't about helping two ex partners resolve issues relative to the children they are co parenting, it is about the money...
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13 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
Mary Lauhead at times does not see the unintended consequences of her approach towards litigation. While she can be an ardent advocate for her client, she doesn't realize her combative manner alienates co-parents and eliminates any good will. She makes unsubstantiated accussations designed to character assassinate the opposite side. I have found her to be lacking in civility, always combative, and seeks to always have the last word. She is not a good listener and has ruined my relationship with my former spouse.
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23 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I worked with Sonja for a number of months. Ms. Larson represented me in my divorce. She failed to mention critical details regarding asset valuation that are elementary to even the most inexperienced attorney. Additionally, she clearly had a sexist tilt when advocating for my custody rights. Ultimately, I terminated her employment but not before much damage was done. I do not recommend Sonja C. Larson.
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07 Aug, 2014 by Jane
Mr. Nolan was ill prepared and did not appear to be aware of all the facets of the law to properly assist me. He did not keep his promises to me; and did not respond in a timely manner. Thus I paid more than I needed to for his work.
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14 Jan, 2013 by Derrick
Paid nearly 10k to have her represent me. Only showed at 2 mediations. The second mediation was postponed but i was not informed of this so I wasted half a day trying to find out what was going on. Rarely answered her voicemails from me and would tell me she did not get them. That was several times. Did not even try to go after my wifes company or bring up active appreciation which I heard about from 3 other attorneys after she dropped me. But she was nice enough to offer my 401k up to compensate for my wifes marital debts. I would ask for any advice on how to get through this process and got no advice but was charged for every call or email i assume because what I spent seems brutally high for someone to only show up at 2 mediations for a few hours each time and at the end of the second mediation, i was told that I would be allowed to only keep my car I bought when I was 17 long before my marriage while my wife was allowed to hide her 1/3 of the family business she was given while we were together. I am convinced that she honestly did not care what happened to me at all for the last 4 months I was paying her. I understand that it's a divorce and not all roses but she did absolutely nothing for me. The things she was telling me to agree to in the second mediation were truly insulting and I was speechless. I did not agree to anything and the letter of withdrawal of councel was just as insulting when she told me how close i was to settling. If she had her way, i would have had nothing and unfortunately i am almost 10k poorer. Before the divorce...
After talking to two other attorneys, i was told I could probably do a better job representing myself and i should just go to court because i was being offered nothing by my wifes attorney so i couldn't do any worse than that...
Words cannot describe how disappointed I am in choosing her.
Very poor service, but had the excuses at the ready and lied to my face to cover her own tail.
I could go on and on with this... But i guess I can sum it up as without a doubt, the worst money I ever spent and I plan to continue to spread the word on how I feel about her.:-(
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20 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
We were very disappointed in the quality of Kurtis representing us. We wrote 90% of our own petition, gather our own MPD reports for our case. He made several grammar errors in our petition and we had to proof read everything!!! Not a good experience at all. My stress was through the roof!! I had to defend myself on my own.
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24 Nov, 2021 by Ryan
I hired Mr. Jorgensen in June of this year (2021). Was very transparent about my downfalls and my wife's qualities as a amazing mother. (Divorce/custody) case. He seemed confident as soon as he knew he'd be getting a retainer fee of $3500 that week so we decided that this was the man who would fight for my rights...
Probably the worst decision of my life. This man did nothing. I had no say in what I wanted, no say on what I was already willing to give. Instead he would tell me about what the judge "wanted to hear" and "what typically" happens in a case like mine. Never once was I able to object to anything. Never once asked what I wanted or wanted to know. He literally took it upon himself to print out a jenaric questionnaire asking about my wife's taxes and several other things that pertain to a us citizen (which she most definitely was not, and he knew). Just ridiculous questions! As I thought hers were to me but even know I specifically asked Mr Jorgensen why I needed to answer questions about things yrs before my wife and I were together?? So after paying him a lot of money and seeing absolutely nothing done in return on my behalf, I expressed my concerns with him about him not putting in much if any effort he decides to withdraw council 2 weeks before pre trial... because "life is too short to deal with this"
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11 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Ms. Donner was hired to represent me in a divorce. She did NO appreciable work on my file. The only thing she did was make excuses about why she hadn’t done anything. Ms. Donner could not even get simple discovery responses to the other side after months of my asking her to. She asked for 2 different continuances because she never prepared for trial. Hellmuth and Johnson did not have the staff needed to run a law office. I kept receiving other client’s documents- including confidential wage and medical records. Staff didn’t know how to obtain medical or bank information or check what was in a Sharefile link. Hellmuth and Johnson charged me $12,000 over the amount we had clearly agreed upon. Ms Donner refused to bring a motion asking for more fees as the judge had ordered her to do. Stay Away!
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01 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
This is the most unprofessional Lawyer I have ever used. He has no basic manners, always tardy, scruffy looking and never on time. He has no secretary yet he never picks his calls when you call his cell phone. He also never returns calls. When you send him an email, he hardly responds and if at all he does, will respond after a week. The only thing that Bobby Sea is interested in is MONEY. He doesn't care about you or your case and has no regards whatsoever for his clients. The man is a complete JOKER. I still dont know how he passed Law school
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16 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
This muppet is as dull as a brand new pencil. How this troglodyte is allowed to practice law, with children’s well-being at risk , is a crime. It’s hilarious to watch her empty face struggle with insults. She should be use to them at this point. Guarantee our hamster solves puzzles faster. A walking danger, a clod hop’n dullard this one… a face made for catching kickballs In gym class.
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What a Child Support Lawyer Can Do for You
A child support lawyer specializes in legal issues related to the financial support that one parent provides to another for the upbringing of their children. These lawyers assist with establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders, ensuring that the financial needs of the child are met, including housing, food, healthcare, education, and other essentials. A child support lawyer can also represent parents in disputes over the amount of support, ensure fair calculations based on income, and handle legal proceedings if one parent fails to meet their obligations.
Whether you're seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or enforce payments, a child support lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights and the well-being of your child.
When Should I Hire a Child Support Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child support lawyer when you need assistance with any of the following child support matters:
- Establishing child support: If you are going through a divorce or separation and need to establish a child support order, a lawyer can help ensure that the support amount is fair and accurately calculated.
- Modifying child support orders: If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, income change, or a child's financial needs, a lawyer can help you request a modification to the existing child support order.
- Enforcing child support payments: If the other parent has failed to make court-ordered child support payments, a lawyer can help enforce the order through legal means such as wage garnishment, property liens, or even legal action.
- Disputing child support calculations: If you believe the child support amount has been incorrectly calculated based on your income or expenses, a lawyer can help you challenge the calculation and seek a fair adjustment.
- Paternity disputes: If paternity needs to be established before child support can be ordered, a lawyer can assist with DNA testing and legal proceedings.
- Interstate child support cases: If the parents live in different states, navigating child support laws can be complex. A lawyer can help ensure the proper jurisdiction is established and that child support is enforced across state lines.
- Child support during custody disputes: If child custody and child support are being determined simultaneously, a lawyer can help ensure that both issues are resolved fairly and in the best interest of the child.
Hiring a lawyer early can help ensure that your child support case is handled effectively and that your child's financial needs are met.
What Does a Child Support Lawyer Do?
A child support lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents secure, modify, and enforce child support arrangements. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing for child support: A lawyer can help you initiate the legal process to obtain a child support order, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and deadlines are met.
- Calculating child support: A lawyer can help ensure that child support is calculated fairly based on both parents' incomes, the needs of the child, and other factors such as healthcare and education costs.
- Negotiating child support agreements: If both parents are willing to negotiate, a lawyer can help facilitate an agreement on child support outside of court, which can then be approved by a judge.
- Representing you in court: If negotiations fail or the other parent contests the child support amount, a lawyer will represent you in family court, presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Modifying support orders: A lawyer can help you file a request for modification if circumstances change, such as a loss of income or an increase in the child’s financial needs.
- Enforcing child support: If the other parent is not making court-ordered payments, a lawyer can take legal steps to enforce the order through wage garnishment, property liens, or other measures.
- Handling complex cases: In cases involving high incomes, self-employment, or complicated financial situations, a lawyer can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered in determining child support.
How Are Child Support Lawyers Paid?
Child support lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work required. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child support lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. The total cost will depend on how much time the lawyer spends on your case, including preparation, negotiations, and court appearances.
- Flat fee: For more straightforward cases, such as uncontested child support agreements or basic modifications, some lawyers may offer a flat fee that covers all services related to the case.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount of the retainer depends on the expected complexity of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or provide pro bono (free) services in cases where clients cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially when children’s needs are at stake.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are covered.
How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child support lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it's contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested child support cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and the lawyer’s fees.
- Contested child support cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, especially if the case involves significant court time.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for child support cases, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases that involve complex financial issues.
- Modification or enforcement: Fees for modifying or enforcing a child support order may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity and the need for court intervention.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Support Lawyer
Before hiring a child support lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with child support cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support orders. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and any potential challenges you may face. -
How long will the process take?
Child support cases can take time, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors may cause delays. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
What documents should I prepare?
Ask the lawyer what financial documents and other information you should bring to help them calculate child support and build your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Support Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child support lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and have successfully handled child support cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on child support matters.
- Check for certifications: Some lawyers may have certifications in family law or membership in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), which can indicate their expertise in child support and family law issues.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a child support lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Income documents: Bring pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or any other documentation of your income and the other parent’s income, as this will be used to calculate child support.
- Existing child support orders: If there are any existing child support or custody orders, bring copies for the lawyer to review.
- Child-related expenses: Provide documentation of your child’s medical bills, education expenses, daycare costs, and any other expenses that should be factored into the child support calculation.
- Communication with the other parent: Bring any communication between you and the other parent regarding child support, whether through emails, text messages, or written agreements.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions about your case, the legal process, and the lawyer’s fees.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
