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21 Nov, 2024 by Karina chavez
We were very satisfied with David’s work he was great with communicating everything step of the way and got us the best settlement
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07 Aug, 2024 by Jose beltran
One of the best lawyers in Arizona first time being in a car accident and when I thought I lost everything David not only he helped me out but he gave me the best recommendations and advice where to go. He is super patient and will help you out I will definitely recommend.
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13 May, 2024 by Rebecca hanna
David was an absolute pleasure to work with! He is quick to respond, genuinely cares about your case, and answers all questions in depth. The confidence I felt from his extensive experience eased my mind knowing I made the right decision by choosing him to represent me. I can’t say enough good things about David! Highly recommend.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Cassie larson
If you are in need of a Family Attorney who is kind, knowledgeable, but tough as well then you need look no further. I don't know what I would have done without Melissa Bower and her team. She explains the process simply and always gives you the truth. I would recommend her highly to anyone .
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24 Jul, 2024 by Fred moore
Nichole was a great advocate. She explained everything clearly. She worked smart , spent an appropriate amount of time on the issues, and did not over spend. I would highly recommend her.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Scott quigley
Melissa was great to work with. Either Melissa or her paralegal kept in contact with me making communication quick and easy. All documentation is performed electronically so I received all correspondence from Melissa, the courts, and opposing counsel in a timely manner, not waiting for it to arrive in the mail. I am very satisfied with the service provided by Melissa, her paralegal, the client coordinators, and the entire office staff.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Cassie larson
If you are in need of a Family Attorney who is kind, knowledgeable, but tough as well then you need look no further. I don't know what I would have done without Melissa Bower and her team. She explains the process simply and always gives you the truth. I would recommend her highly to anyone .
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24 Jul, 2024 by Fred moore
Nichole was a great advocate. She explained everything clearly. She worked smart , spent an appropriate amount of time on the issues, and did not over spend. I would highly recommend her.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Scott quigley
Melissa was great to work with. Either Melissa or her paralegal kept in contact with me making communication quick and easy. All documentation is performed electronically so I received all correspondence from Melissa, the courts, and opposing counsel in a timely manner, not waiting for it to arrive in the mail. I am very satisfied with the service provided by Melissa, her paralegal, the client coordinators, and the entire office staff.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Jesse mclean
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09 Aug, 2024 by Christy basile
Morgan Coby I had such a great experience with her as my lawyer so professional and caring.im glad I choose her and her firm. Everything went smoothly
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08 Aug, 2024 by Michael mickenberg
Morgan took over my case. She did the best she could and represent me well.
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20 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
I was referred to Katherine Kraus. I am so thankful because I interviewed a few other attorneys and it wasn’t the right fit. She always responded in a timely manner and was very informative. Her whole team was great and I highly recommend!
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13 Dec, 2020 by Robert jones
Liked her tenacity immediately upon first consultation. Fair pricing and manageable payment option. She really knows her business and kept me well informed on what to expect. Made life a whole lot easier. I felt like I won. She is awesome!
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01 Sep, 2019 by Art king
Mrs Katherine Kraus made justice for me not looking down always moving forward for the best interest of my children looking all around the picture not missing any spot proving the good Father figure i am reflecting the Happiness of my daughters bond sharing the most parenting time possible allowing my family to be together all my siblings united the family we are i always dreamed of.Thanks so Much Mrs Katherine & the whole team i appreciate every single positive outcome you are amazing you drove far miles not only to stand firm next to my side in court but most importance to clear up lies and bring justice god is good!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Jesse mclean
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09 Aug, 2024 by Christy basile
Morgan Coby I had such a great experience with her as my lawyer so professional and caring.im glad I choose her and her firm. Everything went smoothly
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08 Aug, 2024 by Michael mickenberg
Morgan took over my case. She did the best she could and represent me well.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Lou
To whom it may concern, If you are looking to hire a lawyer, I'd watch out before hiring Elizabeth langford. I hired her for over 10 years, as we though that starting over with another lawyer would be way more costly to which i know now was a big mistake. Elizabeth was our lawyer for at least 3 previous cases, she charged $20k+ for at least 2 of them and although we won the cases, it was not due to her due diligence, but my long hours working through documents to bullet point evey actions. We found that she does follow the law for the most part, but she will not build a case for you or really defend her client in court. When we had meets with her, she turns them into a gosip hour and provided no actual plan to defend her client. Her last case as my lawyer, she charged at least $27,000 a case, and I had to build the case for her walking through every little detail (often multiple times). She failed to either remember what was told to her or she just didnt really care to remember, not sure. She then will feel entitled to bill hours on reviewing case information that she doesnt actually know and showed up to court dazed and confused. She waited until the day of court to ask, should we present first or second? I said, they filed the cases first, we are the defendant, they were the plantiff, they should go first. She agreed, but then mins later, in court, when the judge asked who should go first, she said ok, we will go first. No fight, no objection. This put us in a bad position as it's always better to go last since you hear everything the other person is claiming and can defend your client better, but no. She completely forgot to tell the judge about the unpaid medical / covid claims and when asked for documents to support medical premiums were paid, she froze like a deer in headlight. Her representation in court was pathetic and the other lawyer was far more prepared. Making Elizabeth look like a complete fool scrambling around, not to mention her client (my wife) who she provided no support. She was discombobulated shifting through papers frantically, leaving my wife to try and figure out what to do. When my wife was on the stand, she didnt asking any relevant follow up questions that could defend my wife. They were trying to charge for an extra curricular sport expenses to which our previous court document stated all extra sports must be agreed to in writing. We had extra sports that the plantiff agreed to but never paid, and yet she couldn't remember to say that in court. I made sure in previous cases to outline this keep each side from just trying to force the other parent to pay costs they may not be able to afford. Well, Elizabeth must have been sleeping bc she was dead silent. No defense just let them walk all over my wife. She completely forgot to tell the judge about the unpaid medical / covid claims and when asked for documents to support medical preimuims were paid, she froze like a deer in headlight, then was discombobulated/bewildered shifting through papers frantically. My poor wife was left defenseless, up the creek without a paddle, yet Elizabeth just sat there mostly silent. In this case, I can say I did stand back and watched after i know she had all the docs to defend my wife as I wanted to see if she would fail so i had the proof I needed to fire her. I was 100% correct. She provided no real fight in court and this justified me firing her. Ive debated if i should write a review and i said i want to make sure others are warned about her bc her profile doesnt lead you to see, in my opinion, the truth of how she presents herself in court. Overall, my opinion of Elizabeth Langford is she is disorganized and really not a true fighter for her clients. Although our cases ended fine for us bc the ex was behind in child support, etc. her representation of a client is to say less-than-stellar.
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24 Oct, 2019 by Dustin
I highly recommend The Sampair Group and Elizabeth Langford! The entire staff are professional, kind and courteous. Liz really fought for me and my children. Stefanie Savage has superior organizational skills and kept me on the right track through out my divorce. Rick is a straight up 'tell it like it is' kind of guy. From the time we started the case to it's end nearly 14 months later they were all by my side. I as a single father, ended up getting 'final legal decision making authority' as well as child support and back support.
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16 May, 2016 by Michelle
Liz worked on my child support and parenting time modification and helped me pursue back child support. This case took almost a year and was very complex. Liz worked every angle in order to argue the case for back support which usually is not given. She is amazingly smart and energetic. She really thinks of everything and her team was able to put together a case which not only changed my parenting time to my advantage but I was awarded child support and $42000 in back child support and legal fees. I highly recommend her, she is fair and tenacious.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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