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28 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I retained Mr. Ivers to represent me in my divorce. The whole process took almost a year. Mr. Ivers was mediocre at best. I dealt with his assistant Jodie most of the time (who was awesome). When we went to trial, Mr. Ivers left out many key pieces. I was very dissatisfied with his performance in court and should’ve fired him months ago.
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28 Feb, 2022 by James
this lawyer guided me with good advice with a parental interference case, and got me to be able to see my son again after not seeing son for 4 mo from ex wife issues, of which i will forever be grateful to the lawyer. he was helpful but was constantly busy, and indicated he didn't have a lot of time. i honestly feel he was trying to make time, but in the end i was called by his secretary and told that in the time frame i needed help, i would be better off finding another lawyer service, they did provide me a list and a contact number to find lawyers. this was when i was getting ready for a hearing that was coming up in 1 week. but for the time that i was getting advice from this lawyer it was better than i could have done on my own. the one piece of feedback i would like to give to him is if they new they would not be able to help me further then dont take money from me to put into trust fund. of course it is possible that they didn't realize the time involved, or that i would require more than an hour consulting a month until a few days after i made the deposit. it seems like i will get most of it back, but it might be some time. we will see, it seems more like a staffing competence rather than lawyers.... i'm used to professional lawyers from the past but from a larger organized firm. this lawyer is more affordable and i would use him again if i would have assurances for how much help they can and can not do, what they are willing to accept as a consultant, and how often i can contact them, and when i would get a response. even though i think this lawyer has good advice, and is affordable it is really just one or two people that run the show, and they need to learn to organize better, or get better help to organize and i hope they take this feedback and i wish them success. i feel this lawyer would do better working at a larger firm than deal with all the hustle and logistics of a business.
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17 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
When I was served with a divorce I thought I would handle it by myself even though my soon to be ex had a lawyer. I learned very quickly that was a bad idea. There are way too many laws, rules, procedures, etc that have to be followed. Doing it myself went downhill pretty quickly so I wanted to get a lawyer. I asked some people for help finding a lawyer, and several of them gave me Andy's name.
He is great at explaining things so that you understand them even when there are a whole lot of moving parts. I was amazed at how well he understands people and can predict what will happen or people will do. After he got involved we eventually came to a settlement that basically gave me what I asked for to start with.
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23 Dec, 2024 by Melony madsen
In 1997 I got busted with a few other people...I was facing 10 years to life for conspiracy. After alot of blood sweat and tears Mr. Waliser got my sentence down to year and a day in Federal Prison. I am greatful for his representation and I am unsure that I ever truely thanked him. So, Mr. Waliser, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your service. This comes almost 30 years later. Thank you. Sincerely,
Melony Madsen
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16 Dec, 2024 by Ryan towers
Bryan is a wealth of knowledge and I couldn't of asked for someone better to of represented me. Incredible to work with.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Michelle mcquain
23 Sep, 2024 by Blake nonweiler
Joel Kent practices domestic relations law with an exquisite degree of skill, thoughtfulness and intellect. Joel is often credited as the leading family law attorney in Oregon, but I wonder if the breadth of that label should not be far more widespread. If you are fortunate enough to retain him, you'll have an advocate who not only possesses finely tuned trial skills, but also engages in tireless preparation and incredible professionalism. My mantra quickly became, "Whatever you think, Joel." and I was not once disappointed.
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20 Sep, 2023 by Kristine f
Excellent Lawyer! Laurel Hook will definitely take care of you during a very difficult time in your life along with your family dynamics changing. - She along with her team are absolutely amazing! She definitely knows the intricacies of the divorce laws and is there to represent you to the fullest. She talked me off of ledges on many occasions, I came into her office terrified of filing for divorce but knew I had to and she walked me thru a very complicated process paying attention to so many details, I had no clue about. She explained her strategies to me in ways I completely understood and felt comfortable with. I finalized my divorce with confidence due to her support and knowledge. Her team is there to come beside you which I was very thankful for. If you want the best lawyer, go with Laurel Hook esp if you divorce is complicated with a business or other stuff. She truly cared about me and my kids thru this entire process! I highly recommend Laurel Hook!
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12 Apr, 2023 by Ashley k.
08 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Like the comment below, he was not worth what I paid. He often required that I wait way too long for responses to emails and calls and clearly was always preoccupied by somethings. Divorcing my wife cost way more than it should have.
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25 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Look. If you want to spend top dollar for mediocre results then this is your guy. I found him incredibly disengaged with the process.
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02 Oct, 2017 by Allison
No one wants to get divorced, and certainly no one wants to have a contentious divorce and custody battle. Walking into court, I never felt more confident thanks to Alex's hard work, preparation and caring communication throughout the whole process.
Alex is incredibly smart, measured, thoughtful and has a personal nature that will make you feel at ease. But it's also his tenacity and doggedness that makes you feel confident you're in the right hands.
I interviewed numerous lawyers before final landing on Alex and I am very thankful to have him on my team.
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25 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
I started my divorce in 2018 while the divorce was finalized there were many ups and down with my ex. Kristin was ideal with helping my navigate through this as well as keeping our children out of it. Through the years she has dealt with my multiple emails, phone calls, counselors, PC, reunification therapists, the ex, his attorney with SO many people involved in this case you would think she could possibly “drop the ball”. Well she didn’t. She does her best to point out when you yourself may be wrong. (Which makes a good attorney) She tells you to always “take the high road”. Which we all know is difficult when dealing with a divorce. If it weren’t for her guidance, honesty, expertise, years of experience, excellent staff to assist her. My children and I wouldn’t have got the outcome we got. Come court date she had ALL things in order, super organized and went down a checklist of facts. I knew then the other side should be worried that she came prepared to win! I would highly recommend her to anyone. And would use her again if needed.
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14 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Kristin was hired in my divorce case with an abusive husband and father. I’m not entirely sure what she did on her part as I’m the one who did all paperwork and gathering of discovery. She was routinely rude and unbelievably unorganized and did not address extremely crucial issues that affected my 3 kids IMO.
I could share a whole lot more but I won’t , needless to say I wholeheartedly DO NOT recommend this attorney.
Be wary.
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23 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I use lawyers for my businesses every year so I am familiar with many of the industry norms.
I am 5 years into a challenging co-parenting situation and another issue arose recently. I contacted Kristin Eaton via her firms website and scheduled a meeting after hearing back from her paralegal. Great I thought.
The day of the consult, the paralegal email to say, "Can't do a 1/2 hour free consult - you have to pay for 1 hour" - I said, ok. I value my time and understand she wants to be compensated for hers.
I drove 40 minutes to her office for the 1 pm appointment. When I arrived, the paralegal came out and said Kristin can't meet me today, she is too busy - I need to schedule out in 2 weeks.
Ouch - what a waste of my time.
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28 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
i WAS GIVEN A REFERRAL TO GOLDBERG AND JONES. I DECIDED TO GO DESPITE KNOWING THAT ANY FIRM THAT POURS AD MONEY INTO A PRODUCT LIKE THEY DO TYPICALLY IS BECAUSE THEY HAVE A POOR PRODUCT,
I PAID MY 200 DOLLARS FOR CHANCE TO MAKE JOKES REPEATEDLY ABOUT MY BEING DUMB ENOUGH TO MARRY THE SAME PERSON TWICE..
I HAD DONE A FAIR AMOUNT OF DUE DILLIGENCE PRIOR TO VISITING HIM,, HE WAS MORE CONCERNED WITH MAKING FUN OF ME AND TELLING ME THAT I SHOULD JUST SETTLE MY CASE FOR HALF..
HIS PARTING COMMENT WAS TO HAND ME A CARD AND TO LET ME KNOW WHEN I WAS GOING TO RETAIN HIM.. AND A FINAL JOKE ABOUT MARRYING THE SAME PERSON TWICE..
I HAVE SUBSEQUENTLY RETAINED A COMPETENT ATTORNEY AND AM HEADED FOR TRIAL..
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05 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
It has been several years since I dealt with Chance but he appears to still be with Goldberg and Jones. Coming in the door Colin Amos promised me the moon, then passed me off to Chance. Most of my funds were spent sitting around chatting it up with Chance. He never developed a legal strategy to move forward with my case, even refusing to even attempt to research the value of narital assets. Valuable time was lost and, consequently, money. I wasn't sure if Fewel's failure to perform his duties,as my attorney were more due to professional incompetence, ineperience or a lack of passion for the job -- perhaps all three? Anyway after re-uping their retainer once too often and expending thousands of my dollars for legal services of questionable value I cut hi m loose and hired another lawyer who as she said "cleaned up the mess" he had made of my divorce. Lesson learned,even if a little late.
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22 Aug, 2017 by Matthew
Super honest and helpful- got my case settled!
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21 Jun, 2021 by Heather
I hired Elaine for custody/parenting plan. She called my daughter the wrong name twice. She failed to communicate in a timely manner, with me and the opposing attorney. She seemed to be unconcerned or forgetful about my daughter's safety and mine as well. Overall experience was very unsatisfactory.
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12 Apr, 2019 by Tony
After an emotional decision I offered to my wife am uncontested divorce. After an Internet research for a local attorney to facilitate this I discover Ms. Smith-Koop. Unfortunately my wife took her own action and filed. I kept my appointment with Ms. Smith-Koop. I will attest that I was completely distraught. Not only did she walk me throught all my options she kind and presented me the facts.
My position was to be fair and reasonable to my wife. Ms. Smith-Koop provided all the resources necessary to accomplish this goal.
During the process I discovered her knowledge of not only all the laws but also of the system, attorneys, judges and courts.
I would highly recommend her to represent anyone for a fair and satisfactory result.
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12 Feb, 2014 by John
Elaine represented me in a difficult paternity case. My case was challenging to say the least and I was fairly doubtful of my chances at winning. Most of the feedback/opinion I received from other attorneys in Elaine's area of expertise (paternity) wasn't too optimistic. Elaine was the only one who truly gave me hope and her feedback/opinion on my case was more knowledgeable of the law than some of the other attorney's feedback whose rates were much higher than Elaine's.
Elaine is a skilled professional who is highly knowledgeable and very competent in the area of paternity and family law. Elaine and her legal staff helped me win a very difficult paternity case and both their experience and competence are admirable. I am very happy with the outcome of my case and the services provided. Given my overall experience with Elaine, I would highly recommend Elaine and her staff to represent you if are looking for an attorney that truly knows and skillfully practices the law!!
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09 Sep, 2017 by Brian
Mr Bobzien represented my in a very contentious divorce case, and if there ever was an ethical representative- he is it. He worked hard at keeping costs down and had a great deal of empathy toward my situation, I wouldn't hesitate to hire him in the future and would highly recommend him if you are looking for a true professional.
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05 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Andrew Bobzien is an outstanding lawyer with an outstanding reputation. He specializes in Domestic Violence cases. He is an expert in Family Law. Keep in mind that no matter what Family Law Attorney you hire, there will be challenges. Getting a Divorce or dealing with custody issues is highly emotional. A great example would be the review below. I know her and she actually recommended Drew to me. She unfortunately was emotionally unstable at the time and took advice from her mother instead of from Drew. I know this because I was with her during this time and couldn't believe how unreasonable she was being. I on the other hand trusted his advice and direction and came out winning my case. The best advice I can give on finding a good lawyer is to meet with them in person to see if you and the attorney are a good fit. Someone like Drew who has been practicing for many years and has a great reputation amongst his peers would also be something to consider. The other thing I appreciated about Drew is he kept the cost down as best he could and he allowed me to make payments once he worked through my retainer. Thank you Drew for outstanding representation. I wish you well.
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16 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
I made the mistake of hiring this lawyer to represent me. I am in a very vulnerable position as my husband is a high wage earner and I have been a stay at home mother for many years. Mr. Bobzien does not know how to represent women and children who are trying to escape domestic abuse. I recognized too late that Mr. Bobzien was not advocating for me at all. It has been a costly mistake and I regret hiring him. I believe he is complete untrustworthy. For Mr. Bobzien, what comes around goes around in life.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Marc udink
23 Jul, 2024 by Tricia handy
GARRETT SHARP IS THE WORST JOKE OF AN ATTORNEY I HAVE EVER SEEN IN A COURTROOM. HE DID ABSOLUTELY NOTHING FOR MY 23 YEAR OLDS CASE AND THEN CHARGED HIM OVER 24 THOUSAND DOLLARS. My son makes 30k a year and he was ordered to pay 1900 a month in child support and Garrett said it was my sons fault and then dropped the case. Biggest piece of trash! Don’t go here. Go across the street to Stacy, she’s a bulldog!
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30 May, 2024 by Mike hilb
I used Mike Fitzimons and this Law Firm for personal and business legal work for more than ten years. unfortunately, I used Mike Fitzimons to represent me during my divorce and with the custody of my children. I have learned that Mike and this law firm are incompetent. This is probably the worst child custody firm in the state. Ultimately, I was lucky. I was able to to see my children again, and get to 50% custody despite Mike Fitzimons and this awful law firm. This group is the worst of the worst. Avoid at all costs. These are local politicians pretending to be a law firm. These attorneys are part of the reason why people hate lawyers. Years later Mike’s brother in law was involved in an embezzlement and forgery scheme against me. Of course Mike represented the perpetrators. These guys are super scary people
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23 Jan, 2025 by Spencer prince
Words can’t express the regret our family has for retaining Angela Lee. I could write pages articulating the amount of time and money we’ve spent seeking her counsel in a matter for a relative in the legal system there. To sum it up, we had to call and email her multiple times weekly for the slightest updates on the case. She would charge enormous fees for each email or call , always promising results in certain matters , yet, never , ever delivering , all the while charging for even attempted contacts to her office . She went through a $7500 retainer fee in a matter of just a couple of weeks , most of it charging for our contacting her office for updates. She just asked our family for an additional $7500 to remain on the case . I have NEVER experienced an attorney so full of promises and so short on any results. She is horrible with any follow through. Anyone reading this would be very wise to NEVER utilize her services in any way, shape or form .
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29 Oct, 2024 by Katy nevinsky
Angela represented a friend of mine (who I’m a witness for) and gave horrible legal advice, including telling her to not have witnesses (which would have included myself). These actions put a child in harm’s way.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Angel weatherly
Amazing staff!!!! Angela took so much weight off my shoulders along with Jesse!!!!! Amazing caring team!!!!! I'll be forever grateful to the both of them!!!!
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09 Mar, 2024 by Jason
I am the custodial parent and was being challenged on my behavior with my 12 year old. Child protective services were called to investigate an accusation of withholding food. The case was deemed unfounded. My child’s mother apparently desired a second opinion. This is when I called the firm Austin Batalden worked at. Batalden was happy to meet with me and my wife for the consultation fee. While speaking with her, she exuded a confidence to handle our legal situation. Based on her appraisal, Batalden estimated the cost would end up being a few thousand dollars if things went smoothly, and perhaps ten thousand dollars or more if they did not. Once Batalden began working on my case, I began to lose confidence in her. I tried to encourage Batalden to be more assertive with the facts already available, and I kept getting the sense that she did not want to be too strong with the opposing counsel. The opposing counsel was being quite strong however, and when I had spent about four thousand dollars, I decided to seek out a different attorney. I hired a new attorney. Batalden’s firm, aware of my disappointment, transferred my case for the associated clerical fees. I was quite relieved once I began to work with my new attorney.
What I learned is that attorneys can often sound intelligent, and indeed are intelligent in terms of law, but that does not inform clients as to their competence other areas related to their job. My opinion is that Batalden was disinterested in my case and my perception was that my case got away from her before she realized it. I also perceived and felt that she was not interested in me and my well-being as a person experiencing a difficult situation evolving into a crisis. My mental health and that of my wife and whole family suffered through the next two years to have our matter eventually go before a judge. I believe this could have been avoided.
I remain my child’s custodial parent and my child’s mother was ordered supervised visitation and mandatory professional coaching. I would not recommend Batalden for any matter that had more nuance than simply navigating the legal system. The total cost of my court ordeal was around 50 thousand dollars. I believe this too could have been avoided.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Meeta
I hired Austin for my divorce and recently for my custody case. Austin is one of the most genuine people I have ever met - she is very knowledgeable about family law and puts the childs interests above everything else. She is not only a great lawyer, but a very patient, strategic advisor on how to proceed with your case. She responds quickly and communicates very well.
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17 Jan, 2024 by Hannah
Austin Batalden has been an incredible attorney for my family and I. Austin took amazing care with my case. She made sure that everything was done correctly. She communicated everything clearly and easily. I really appreciated her realistic approaches to a turbulent situation. If you are looking for a family law attorney, you cannot do better than Austin. Knowing that you have someone competent and empathetic handling a sensitive issue brings priceless peace of mind.
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05 Jan, 2024 by Ata ince
05 Dec, 2023 by Jack cassie
15 Feb, 2022 by Kaitlyn amborn
12 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
He totally screwed up my case. Did not file a response to a motion. Because of his failure at the hearing nothing we had to say could be heard. My cat could have done better. At the hearing his hair was greasy. He looked like a slime ball. $7000+ and he didn't do anything but hurt my case.
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19 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Tim was hired short notice for an emergency situation in my family. He was the only attorney that was available short notice on a holiday. (Now I see why)
During a phone call when I'm obviously stressed and panicking he shushes me. Which I thought was unprofessional but things had started moving, or so I thought.
In a hearing he shows up to, he flat out stayed silent. No defense against easily proven lies from my ex. Even when I had mentioned that these statements were untrue.
That same hearing he arrive very disheveled and his suit was covered in beard hair from possibly shaving in his car or who knows. I just know it was very unprofessional.
After a heating he gave me bad advice concerning my rights and actions which lost me ground to MY abuser because he didn't pay attention to the entire hearing.
He also failed to file important documents I spent days working on, reviewing, and re writing.
He said he had a plan. Seemed very motivated and driven for helping me.
But he didn't even take accurate notes that he himself asked for over the phone.
I had to speak up and correct my own attorney over details he couldn't seem to even take accurate notes on.
After that he tanked my hearing and did nothing.
After that I fired him and somehow my retainer that was just replenished was evaporated to almost nothing even though I had just replenished funds and he had no work.
You might as well defend yourself.
Heck, even the guy who serves coffe at the drive through could probably do a better job than TIm
A Clown in a cheap suit.
This is my opinion from working with him directly.
His only other rating is from another attorney. Imagine that.
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18 Dec, 2020 by Emily
Tim Brown has been the pillar in my understanding, interpretation, and overall ability to move forward with my child custody case. With every hiccup that has pushed us back in this process; his ability to think, act and react never siezes. He's truly and incredibly gifted at his occupation.
The communication, professionalism, and dedication he displays is absolutely out of this world and has blown every expectation I had out of the water, as well as having torn through every bit fear I had coming into this process.
Mr Brown's legal knowledge, interpersonal skills, respectful demeanor, and above the standard professionalism, has made this whole stressful and difficult process clear and more comfortable than I imagined possible.
A child custody case of ANY length creates undue stress and feelings of concern on parents and children, inadvertently. Mr Brown's ability to perform his expected duties along with his ability to calm my fears and help me focus on the bigger picture has been pivotal. His knowledge, experience, and genuine care is exceptional. Professionalism, hard work, and dedication worth it's weight is difficult to find. Tim Brown embodies all of these traits and continues to go above and beyond the typical call of duty in my case.
There is no shortage of human decency (in this seemingly indecent occupation) when working with the team at LaMont Law and I highly recommend Tim Brown.
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11 Jan, 2025 by Anonymous
I hired Nicole for my divorce in mid 2023. This should have been an easy divorce not many assets no children. The issue my spouse is a divorce attorney in the same small pool in Portland. My ex spouse refused to turn over discovery, dragged the divorce along for over a year and caused me to pay lawyer every time.
Nicole did nothing to further the divorce proceedings. When I asked her to be more aggressive I did not see any action. Over all my divorce took nearly a year to complete and I am still navigating issues that my ex spouse was able to slither her way through because my legal guidance was subpar. Items that I didn’t think about (because she was not forced to actually produce discovery) resulted in me taking on more debt than I should have. I continued to have to keep my ex spouse on my health care the entire time and pay lawyer fees the entire time. I believe if my ex-spouse was not a lawyer in the same field I would have different and better representation. I can’t recommend this firm.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
She was intimidated by opposing counsel, encouraged settling and giving more to them than was even necessary let alone fair. She is not a fathers rights attorney whatsoever. She has no experience (outside of our case) with high conflict people, and had no idea how to handle it. There were multiple instances of her giving advice, only to concede that she was wrong. She dropped the ball on multiple occasions. When she’d speak to the judge, she was too nervous to get across ideas. It was like she was a kid reading from a written speech, no ability to improvise. Hiring her and not firing her mid battle is one of my biggest regrets. I don’t mean to be cruel, but this needed to be said. It’s too important and too much money for others not to know.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Marlene
As soon as we met him I knew we would look for a different attorney. I have never met anyone more unprofessional in my 80+ years. It was obvious he wanted to be anywhere but where he was. It got worse during the consultation. I think he prejudged my granddaughter rather than the child custody case we were there for. He gave us completely different information than the lawyer who represented her in the CPS case. I would not recommend him at all.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Crystal
He refused to answer phone calls, refused to answer emails, refused letters, and refused to visit his client after the first meeting and saying he would return in two days. 6 months later after much fighting we had the Bar and the Client assistance office replace him. He didn’t even both to show up for court at one hearing. And lied out right at a second hearing stating that he had reached out to the Public Defenders Office personally to replace him, without realizing that in the hearing he misses the PDO had already stated they had not heard from him, only his client.
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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:
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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.
