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21 Sep, 2024 by Denise
I cannot believe anyone would have something good to say about this most incompetent, lying, narcissistic lawyer. She is a master at wasting people's time and answering questions without really answering the questions. All she cares about is money and once she gets it and you have run yourself ragged doing the legwork she should have done, you will see that she has done nothing at all! She has no compassion and the topper is she has convinced herself she knows what she is doing. I would have been better off representing myself! DO NOT HIRE THIS INCOMPETENT LIAR!!!!
Denise Ward - 3 and a half year client with not one single thing to show for it except a depleted bank account of $15,000 plus all the cost of everything she was supposed to do!!! ($2000) Not to mention the cost of missed days of work doing her job!!!
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29 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
A friend of mine hired her. It's been 2 years and she has not done anything at all. Now her husband passed and she still has not done anything. Don't go to her.
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13 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
This is a lawyer who I would refer to anyone I care for. She was a bull-dog when it came to the fight in court. She will tell you as a client the realistic possiblities of the outcomes that I was facing whether I liked them or not. She actually called months after my hearing in custody just to see how we were doing!! Who does that? Not only is she a competant lawyer she is a very great human being. If you are in need of a Lawyer who treats you like your a human being as well as spends the time to make sure you are represented and treated fairly in this crazy court system, Diane Mellott, Esq is your Man!
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16 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Pat is a lovely and caring woman. She was recommended by someone on the Nextdoor app, and after meeting with her, I chose to retain her. The price seemed good. My case was complicated, and after a ~2 years, it did not seem like the case was going anywhere. When some unforeseen circumstances happened, I realized that Pat was not able to bring the case to fruition, and I hired another attorney.
If the case is cut and dry and/or straightforward, I would recommend Pat. She is sincerely kind, caring and supportive. However, sometimes kind and caring doesn't bring the case to completion. Therefore, in complicated cases, my recommendation is to go with a large law firm, since their knowledge base required for complicated cases is vast.
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21 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
She was good for a low price at first. She became slow and very hard to contact. I hired a new lawyer only to come to court to find her giving the defendant advice. I want my money back. She has a problem representing men in custody cases.
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30 May, 2017 by Terry hanks
First and foremost if you are looking for an top grade Attorney who knows how to get the job done then look no further than Patricia Whitman. Patricia was the second Attorney that i appointed to represent me in my Divorce, as i was not happy with the service (or costs) of my first Attorney. Even though my first Attorney was very highly regarded within my county she did not represent me well. Patricia (although out of my county) came in and completely transformed my situation. She is extremely diligent and will work tirelessly to achieve the desired outcome. Patricia is extremely honest, Professional, hard working, loyal, excellent negotiator, fastidious, conscientious, cares about her clients and possesses an excellent Professional and Personal demeanor. Patricia will work with you to decide if she is the right person to represent you and if you are the right client for her to work with. She is honest and open and transparent about costs and also about likely outcomes. She will guide you through the good and the bad and be honest with you all of the way. My view and opinion of Attorneys was very tainted until i met Patricia, she has an amazing ability to negotiate and win cases but whilst doing so in the most calm and controlled manner possible. I do not write reviews very often but i felt that i needed to let people know about this true "Gem" that is Patricia, she will truly change your life and your perspective on life as you navigate through extremely difficult and traumatic personal times. Quite simply if you do not hire Patricia Whitman to represent you it is your loss........
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26 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I've used Wallace Wade several times and each time he has been extremely helpful as well as reliable. Charges were lowered for my court cases. Also, I was also able to get a judgment removed.
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02 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I was being charged with a disorderly person's offense and he didn't even attempt to help me get any lower offense. He did as little as he had to do and couldn't even manage to make it to all of my court dates, and when he did he was always at least 20 minutes late.
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27 Sep, 2017 by Baseemah
Mr. Wallace represented my family court case very well. I let him know what I wanted and expected the outcome to be and he did the research and work to make that happen. He was able to ensure that all of my concerns would be addressed as well as ensuring that the demands were in the best interest of my children. I walked away satisfied with the outcome and will definitely hire him again if I need representation.
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12 Sep, 2013 by Deneen seltzer
I use Tim Engler as our corporate attorney. I would recommend him for any business legal council including review of contracts and business guidance. I have also used him on a personal level for family law and he was terrific. He is very straight forward, honest and genuine towards his clients.
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03 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
would not recommend, sorry, just the facts based on what he did, and did not do!
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15 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Tim helpe me gain custody of my son. The whole process was excellent . The process is a stressful one. But Tim and his staff were always there to answers question, or to let me vent my frustration. Tim Engler is a top notch attorney .
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26 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Maura was responsive and helpful to me every step of the way during my divorce and I can't say enough about her. She listened to me whenever I wanted to talk and I felt comfortable saying things to her that I haven't or wouldn't tell to anyone else. Divorce sucks but she made it manageable and kept me informed throughout the process. I would recommend her to ANYONE getting divorced
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06 Jun, 2011 by Joe k
This lawyer did not show up in court, sent another attorney in her place who knew nothing about my case. Maura said this lawyer knew my entire case; he didn't know anything. At my initial consultation she told me we needed an expedited custody hearing and that would occur within 2 weeks. We got the court date within 2 weeks as she stated; but then informed me she was off that week for a wedding and she would have to ask for a continuance. The continuance was a week later and again she was unavailable so she sent an attorney who is headquartered in Missouri; I'm in Pennsylvania. The court documents said to bring witnesses, all relevant documents, and anything else that would be vital to my case. She said we wouldn't need any of that; we needed it all. After the hearing she stated, and put it in an email, that it was not the real custody hearing and all the information would be brought up at the next hearing, which was 5 months away. The lawyer who replaced her in court knew nothing about me or the case; and the judge knew it right away. After the hearing when I complained about the representation she stated she wasn't aware of some of the things that were brought up. I sent her the email copies where she was informed of everything. This firm billed me for every email, phone call, and even things pertaining to the continuance that was 100% their fault and was avoidable by simply disclosing her vacation schedule to me. I was billed $250 an hour by an attorney at another one of their offices for a strategy conference, while simultaneously paying Maura Cunningham $190 an hour for this call. This firm Maura Cunningham works for, Cordell & Cordell, does nothing more than bill you while trying to drag your case out for as long as possible. In the end you will lose everything including your case. Dozens of complaints on the internet about them; all telling the same story.
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10 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Totally disrespectful. Doesn’t do anything but forward emails. Only in it for the money. Speaks to you like your not even his client. Tries to tell you your crazy and that you need medication and to find a new attorney if you don’t like the way he does thing. Pretty easy to say when you get a non-refundable retainer LOL. Your a joke Barry!
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28 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
I paid him a large amount of money just to have him side with my ex and tell me I'm a disgrace and failure as a parent. He didn't fight for anything I requested he did what he wanted and still had the nerve to send me a bill saying I still owed him a large amount of money. He's definitely just a crook
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30 Sep, 2019 by Tina pan
I have retained Barry for divorce, custody and everything else thrown at me. His office is professional, approachable and friendly, they are very consistent with returning calls/emails. Attorney Cohen will fight for you as well as give you reality and jumps head in first, which is exactly what I need. I am very happy with retaining him to represent me in all matters that I have and currently am facing.
I highly recommend him to anyone that is looking for an attorney who fights and does the right thing.
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20 Aug, 2021 by Samantha
“Attorney Munsee has been very compassionate throughout my custody case. She always put my children and family first and considered what was best for us as a whole. She is very professional, hard-working, and charismatic while working with others in the legal field.”
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26 May, 2021 by Anonymous
What shouldve been a cut and dry case turned into my wife and I having to find out that Cassie Munsee, our lawyer at the time, was not trying to fight a custody battle for us but was trying to settle. When we found out, it was too late. Now it looks like we condoned it and we're stuck with shared custody because theres no judge that will believe us and no attorney that can fight what has been done. We've reported her to the bar association. Theres no point hiring an attorney like her when shes likely friends with the opposing attorney anyway.
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13 Jul, 2020 by Shmulik
She didn't know the situation before going in to represent, even though I emailed in advance to talk it through with her, I didn't get a response. Therefore when faced with opposition she folded and ended with not favorable results.
Do not recommend.
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07 Apr, 2020 by Marimah
I highly recommend Leslie Ditlow as an attorney for family law. She is extremely knowledgeable, relatable, empathetic, compassionate, and take definitive action to help your case. Her care for and support of my children and my family has been a comfort, and a great help in navigating this difficult custody situation.
A tremendous attorney!
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11 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
I really liked Leslie on a personal level. We hiredanother lawyer for a criminal case and he brought her in to consult as he was not experienced enough to handle it. She really knew her stuff and showed much compassion. We were supposed to have another hearing within a month of going to court and it was never scheduled. I repeatedly asked her what the status was and if I got a response at all she would say "I'll see what I can do to speed up a date." and nearly a year later we finally got her to have the court schedule it after going back to our original lawyer who had to contact her twice. I would not have hired her again for custody due to this but she was very good. I also looked up the docket sheet myself and saw that the court had scheduled this hearing for 2015, 2 years after it was supposed to be scheduled. I assumed this is what took so long and that it was not her not doing the job. I figured she was having trouble with the courts bc the hearing was scheduled and no one could find it. So, my husband and I hired her agin to handle child custody. I asked her she would be able to file papers the first week in Dece,bet and she said yes. The case took an unsurprising turn and so we waited 3 weeks to make a decision on what to do. We needed to add a lot more detail to our filing and decide if we wanted to go that route. We did and she was to file the papers the week of Christmas. Never happened. I did not hear from her from the day we returned the papers to her that week u til January 23. The response Ito was that she had some health problems and was down for a little while and she would see what she could do about a date. I knew then and there that she never filed the papers because if she had we would have gotten a letter in the mail from the court with the date. I have contacted her weekly since that day in January and gotten no response. NONE. I finally asked for a refund for the deposit we gave her and haven't heard back on that either. Surprise, surprise. She really messed up this case for my husband bc we needed to act on something his daughter's mother was doing immediately. She totally dropped the ball. If you can get her to respond to you though, kudos bc she really does know her stuff. What good is that though if she doesn't do the work you hire her to do?
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27 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Leslie was great. I had a DUI case and she was really able to help me out. She kept me very informed on what was going to happen and kept my mind at ease during the stressful time. I couldn't ask for a better lawyer I would recommend her to everyone I know if they had legal issues.
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12 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Very rude and dismissive towards me, had a hearing for custody , did not give me an opportunity to speak at all and had a nasty demeanor toward me. Also, was lied to and was told I got sole physical custody of my daughter. Not a proposed order! I will be filing a complaint
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07 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I didn't like her attitude at all! She was very nasty. Didn't care to listen to either side. And started screaming and name calling for no apparent reason. I wouldn't recommend this woman to a dog!
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19 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Arrogant, dismissive, extremely rude & did not even try to hear either side. You would think because she’s a family court judge she would understand her demographic & have an open mind to different circumstances, but that’s not the case here. Maybe she should have remained a lawyer. Judge Judy Wannabe.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Dang2358
This attorney was fired during my divorce. He was useless and pushed paperwork all the time and charged me for every phone call and email and nothing was accomplished. Nobody should use this attorney for family law purposes! Horrible service and non-dedicated. He would get irritated with me and get angry if I asked questions about things I did not understand. He may have graduated at the top of his class from law school but he gets an F in personality and ethics.
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09 Mar, 2023 by Whitney
RJ represented me in a frivolous PFA and won. He’s very professional, always on time, and an excellent communicator. Calm under pressure is an understatement.
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21 Mar, 2016 by Megan
RJ came highly recommended to me. Little did I know when I first filed for divorce how emotionally immature my ex husband would become and how long he would purposefully drag out the divorce (2.5 years)! RJ's experience allowed him to advise me correctly from the very first day. While my ex was dragging his feet, RJ constantly went out of his way to help me by managing my ex so I could live my life! His expertise provided me with a settlement that I was EXTREMELY happy with. I recommend him to all of my friends who need legal help and am planning to use him to prepare my will and a pre numptual agreement. He is incredibly meticulous, observant, is extremely communicative, and quite pleasant to work with!
I was also extremely happy with the positive relationships RJ has with other attorneys and staff at the courthouse.
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10 Jul, 2019 by Dawby
Peasley charged me over $30,000. Forced me to sign a divorce settlement agreement, behind closed doors. The agreement was dated incorrectly and notarized without the notary having witnessed my signature. The MSA was never filed. Peasley entered me into a child custody agreement (never filed) without my consent and charged me billable hours. Child support was based on joint custody, but my child resided only with me his entire life. Peasley did not specify any amount of my settlement which constituted child support. She told me she was retiring and may not be able to finish my case and then withdrew as my attorney immediately after settlement, leaving me and my minor son unrepresented, broke and disadvantaged. When I last saw her to retrieve my disorganized and partial files, Peasley was consulting with a new client. Certainly not retired.
This attorney is not a family law attorney, as she did not represent me or my son to the best of her ability.
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16 Oct, 2009 by Jeff t.
A very good lawyer and fair as well, I spent time with another lawyer who was not very productive and let my x walk all over me. When i hired paige she got things moving along. She was very fair to all parties and made sure that fair and eqaule treatment came from the other side as well because before paige that was not happening. Once again could not be more pleased if you can get her for your lawyer I would recommend you do so .
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19 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Literally THE WORST. I’ve been going thru the divorce process for over 3 YRS now and it’s all thanks to this incompetent! And now I’m too invested in time & money to make a switch! Extremely condescending and incredibly unorganized! I have had to repeat the same info at every meeting and she refuses to write it all down! Wish I could divorce her while I’m at it!!!!!
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15 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Donna handled my divorce in the 1990's when she was with Goldman. She was fair, clear in explanations and brought the divorce to conclusion without a trial. My ex had 5 phony court orders for me to appear in court on false charges and I never had to go. Donna always did her homework and when my ex tried to get me to appear in court on the day of my father's funeral, Donna prevented it. I highly recommend her to anyone who wants a fair divorce.
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16 Jun, 2023 by Paul
I hired Shari Robin Gelfont Williams as my lawyer for a case of order of protection. She was very professional, knowledgeable and compassionate. She won me the case and handled my adversary with skill and tact. She is highly recommended for anyone who needs a family law attorney in the greater Doylestown area. She also has a reasonable price and a lot of experience in litigation. Shari is the best lawyer I have ever worked with and I am very grateful for her services.
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27 Apr, 2011 by Brenda
Recently I was criminally violated by my boyfriend's ex. Though he is now my ex I took her to court for coming after me with a golf club, consistently threatening me, and stalking me. I went through Victim's Assistance here in Charlotte to obtain a Pro Bono attorney. While I appreciated the services Shari was not very supportive of my cause at all. She believed and was supportive of the defendant's cause thereby causing me to lose my case. My supportive reasoning for the previous comment is this. I made it very clear that I was filing the charges because of my rights as a U.S. citizen to be free to exist without threats, attacks, and danger in my way. Shari was not on that same level with me. In fact she was on the level with the defendant's attorney. she was persistent that I was there because of my ex boyfreinend thereby demeaning my level of education and objectivity. Then my request to have a walk through of the questions that would be asked of me were completely ignored. So that when I got onto the stand my answers were not polished nor did I emphasize my safety the way I wanted to do so. And the defendant's attorney brought in informatin that I was told by the assistant would be objected to and it was not thereby making it look as though I was ther because of a man. I lost my case. And now this woman bwho is a threat to others is justified.
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29 Dec, 2024 by Alvin rotharmel
I AM SUEING THEWM FOR CASH FOR KIDS
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23 Feb, 2024 by Maryann halstead
I retained Attorney Garrigan mid-October 2023 and paid the full amount he requested a few days later. As of today, February 22, 2024 there has been zero movement on my case. On February 20, 2024, I called the office requesting a call back or a return of both my initial $1550 plus interest for the 4 months he has held on to my funds. I still have not heard back from them, even though their front office assured me that Sheila would call me back that same day. Every time I call I get excuses about how busy they are and they would get to me when they could. Their inability to get my case taken care of in a timely manner has added undue physical and mental stress and further financial hardship.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Nanami de'clairmont
26 Jul, 2022 by Ann shiffer
I have met with Mr Barber a number of times over the past 9 months regarding my estate planning. 3 documents have been signed, notarized and paid for yet I have not received any of them. The fourth has not yet been drafted and my attempts to contact him have been ignored.
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03 Jun, 2022 by Loretta muhammad
16 Dec, 2021 by Ghessehgoo
17 May, 2021 by Jane doe
Hired Rob for Custody case. Poor work ethic, not reliable, did not follow through, unprofessional. Did not answer required pre trial statements therefore, was unable to present evidence at custody trial. He contacted me personally by phone to tell me to take my review down. Well, now I’m leaving another one. I do not recommend this attorney.
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01 Dec, 2017 by Jim
I hired Robert in October to file a simple motion to switch child support over from Ohio to Pennsylvania. I paid him upfront and afterwards I received nothing but the run-around. I text and called to no avail. Do not waste your money on the so called lawyer.
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07 May, 2013 by Eddie
These folks were honest and worked hard to get my grandchildren back with their mom where they belong.He and his staff worked hard for nearly a year on my daughters case and were always there when we had questions.They really did care both Robert and his wonderful wife Andrea were always there with support for us all and understood that we were a family fighting for the children's best interest.I would tell anyone if you want a truly hard working lawyer Robert Colaizzi is definitely worth a call . Thanks for our boys back Robert.
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10 Jul, 2022 by Lance
Melanie Rothey served as a master on my divorce case. I don’t know where to begin, I don’t know if she’s stupid or lazy. She’s certainly incompetent! She most definitely did not follow the Pa state guide lines. My biggest concern was that my assets were taxable, while my wife’s were tax free. The law states that this needs to be considered when dividing assets. Instead of calculating the differences to make things even she just gave the assets to my wife. Was this due to stupidity, being lazy or maybe just arrogance? I don’t know, but she also used wrong figures on several large assets. So I don’t know what her problem is,perhaps an addiction of some kind. But the end result is incompetence , the bottom line is I wouldn’t let her walk my dog. In fact the only thing my wife and I have agreed on in the last four years is Melaine Rotheys incompetence!
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23 Jun, 2017 by Miranda
Melanie was the most unprofessional lawyer that I consulted with. I would never recommend her to anybody
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22 Jan, 2016 by Bob
Melaine handled my divorce and I can't think of anyone that could have done a better job. She is dedicated and honest. There is no waisted time and her knowledge of the law is second to none.
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22 Jun, 2024 by Aubrey hudac
19 Dec, 2022 by Victoria ganter
Hired her for my divorce. Has done absolutely nothing for me. Takes months to return my calls and then bills me for the voicemails I left her.
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12 Dec, 2022 by Justine wensel
27 May, 2015 by Happy mom
Janice Yaw knows the law and used it to gain full custody of my children. She fights and appeals until she wins your case. She's the best lawyer for all your family law needs. I don't know about the other negative comments above but she was a HOMERUN in an extremely long and difficult battle.
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13 Jun, 2012 by Anonymous
I first met with Janice Yaw and gave her a check for $175.00 for a 30 minute consultation about my case. She said all the right things. Once I hired her as my attorney and gave her a retainer, She attended one 15 minute conference and then just kept passing my case off to who ever in her firm to fill in. She did not return my phone calls and then requested more money, I mean alot of money when she did NOTHING on my case except give me false hope and like I said she passed my case onto others and when I called the office they told me that I signed a paper agreeing that anyone in the firm can take my case which was not true. Even so I believe that she acted totally unprofessional.
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19 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
She went back to my daughters fathers lawyer and told her more then she was suppose to, she never answered her phone, just all around horrible and to top it all of, while the case was still open and I was still under 18 she attempted to sue me for late payments!
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22 Sep, 2023 by Anon blank
Doesn’t communicate at all.
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07 Apr, 2021 by Debra clark
She gave me good insight but didn't fight hard for me!
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05 Jun, 2019 by Fairest reviewer of them all
Karen is GREAT! Very easy to talk to, and she's very thorough. She will happily answer any and all questions, make sure you truly understand what's going on for your case, and keeps you updated every step of the way. Staff are also very nice as well! She made everything pretty easy for me (mine was a simple case, but still, new to me and I was very nervous), and is just an all around nice person. Thank you, Karen and staff!
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13 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Getting past the receptionist was challenge enough. She is abrupt,rude and treats clients as if they are the adversaries in a case; she, the prosecutor. For her, asking simple questions about a simple Will became a source of contention, irritation and condescension. As a receptionist and Notary it is not her job to be verbally aggressive, dismissive. Maybe she is a frustrated lawyer in secretarie's clothing.
To the Atty herself: she offers once and done legal service. Having given incomplete information re types of Wills and ramifications of each, she expected no follow-up questions~Of course met with her attitude that we were taking up her time; 'after all' she gave us our $700.00 worth of advice. Unanswered questions were an unwelcome inconvenience. I learned so much more about the types of Wills and which is best depending on one's situation by going ONLINE. The extra benefit is not having to deal with 'the secretary, her arrogance, condescenion and dismissive attitude to the client who is paying her salary. Having been an employee myself, but also responsible for reviewing/hiring applicants for jobs, her inappropriate demeanor, in person and on ph calls wouldn't be suitable for a professional or any job dealing with the public.
Both the Atty and her secretary are a good match for each other; but not for people expecting 'the law' as it pertains to their individual case, to be fully explained. Go to another legal office where you are respected and valued as a client. The Office of Megan Kerns isn't one!
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24 May, 2023 by Anonymous
This lawyer has the bedside manner of a rabid weasel. Her attitude almost hides the fact that she has no idea what she's talking about. She's rude, dismissive, and should not be allowed to interact with the public.
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01 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Megan treated my case as if it was unimportant and she was too busy to care. She did minimal on my case, I prepared a significant amount of information to save my retainer for more important matters throughout my divorce and custody. She did however at the time have a lot going on, but her demeanor and staff were so unprofessional. It was a complete surprise.
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12 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
The woman clearly can't even take care of herself and make herself presentable yet she's in charge of the welfare of so many children. If you are lucky she will be a friend of the attorney you hire and then you can get away with anything. You will know right away if they are on a first name basis. Absolutely pathetic human being
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09 Jul, 2021 by Amy
She is a pathetic so called attorney and human being that just goes along with whatever the DA wants. She does not care what happens to you and your family. I would say it's just a 9-5 with her only she doesn't give any effort that an actual job would require. The one star was because i had to.
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14 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Hired Attorney Smith for my divorce and custody matter. She talked a good game during my consultation about how quick she gets back to her clients. Once I paid the retainer, I found out that was a lie. She stopped returning my calls and emails. She drug her feet submitting my custody petition, so when she got around to it weeks later, she found out the other party had already filed in a different county so I had to go retain a new attorney in that county. She never returned my emails and calls to follow up and let me know my divorce was final or send me the decree. I found out the divorce was final after it was posted in the newspaper and I had to go to the court house and find out how to get my own copy of the divorce decree.
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21 Jun, 2019 by Cat
Carol is not experience in family law and should not be practicing. She drew out a very simple matter for a custody meeting. By doing this she overcharged me for her time. When I moved to another lawyer, her office charged me large fees to move my files (she only had me as a client for a few weeks) and charged for operational fees to send me my money back. In the end we spent a lot of money with no return. I do not recommend her as a lawyer.
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01 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
If you have deep pockets, she a good lawyer! I think her fees are outrageous! Believe me you will get charged for everything..... Even something that has to be resent BC you didn't receive it in the mail. When they claim to have sent it. So you get charged all over again for somebody else's mistake!
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26 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Liar and a con man. Collaborates with opposing counsel for his own gain . Piles on billing by bringing in associates who “happen to be passing “. Neither he or associate produce anything but Billings . Another lawyer referred to him as a POS. I had to fire him.
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22 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Charged me unbelievable amounts of money for a simple divorce. Refused to copy me on the opposing attorney's emails or meetings. Totally unprofessional. Had to fire him and hire another lawyer to finish the divorce.
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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.
