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19 Jun, 2024 by William frasch
Dealing with an estate issue that's 2200 miles away is a problem in itself. CMS Law stepped in and made the process seamless and smooth. Wonderful people to work with.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Michael dao
Quick and easy process. The team at CMS provided excellent service and answered all our questions. We can now have a peace of mind now that our estate plan has been finalized.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Glen gragg
Adam was a huge help, very knowledgeable, makes you feel like a person and NOT someone just after your money, don't hesitate
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11 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend Lisa Elliot. She helped me through my divorce. She was very knowledgeable through the whole process. What I appreciated most about Lisa was how responsive she was. She answered phone calls and emails in a very timely manner and kept me informed. I had many questions throughout the divorce and she was quick to give me clear answers. This has been a painful personal experience for me, but Lisa put my mind at ease with all of the legal aspects.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Chris brumfield
High level of attention to detail, and they got to know me personally and were strong advocates. I feel I got a good outcome!
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18 Dec, 2024 by Kristen faris
Honestly, I cannot speak highly enough about the entire team. Their time, effort, and diligence has had a life changing impact. They communicated honestly, and frequently. I hope to never have to be in a situation to need their services again, but they would be the first people I would call should I need to. And I would be just as grateful then. THIS IS A REAL REVIEW. :)
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05 Dec, 2024 by Justin powers
My bankruptcy case was handled in a very quick and easy way. Communication was always smooth, instructions were clear and there were no surprises. I'm grateful for having chose Majors and I'm looking forward to the future. 10/10
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14 Nov, 2024 by Ai chien
Very professional. Great service. Easy to work with. Highly recommended Alex!
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28 Oct, 2024 by Valeria lopez
Couldn’t have gone with better legal representation than Alexander, he went above and beyond for my husband and I and made this legal process so easy and stress free! Cannot recommend him enough!
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28 Oct, 2024 by Long nguyen
Highly recommend Alexander for your legal needs. While seeking consult, I decided to go with Alexander due to how personal he was compared to other attorneys. I am unfamiliar with the legal world, but Alexander did an amazing job clarifying all of my questions and going out of his way to be available to me. He made the legal process of my situation very streamlined, clear, and prompt. I will definitely return to Alexander for any future legal needs.
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23 Mar, 2024 by Angelo falavigna
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23 Mar, 2023 by Angelo falavigna
Really good personal injury attorney. They go above and beyond to help. .
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23 Oct, 2022 by Jan jones-hickling
Intuitively knew how to handle a tough situation and make a sad ugly experience bearable
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19 May, 2024 by Tolmie
He work on my case and charged me over and over because his notes were like child writing, he quit my case days before final trial, and I had to pay extra for another attorney to try to catch up, and follow his chicken scratch. What a joke of an attorney, if he is recommended for you case , absolutely deny his service.
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20 Mar, 2020 by Sarah
He listened to what I was trying to succeed and my goals. He made it clear to the other party as well. He would not let me sign unless I was completely satisfied. He listened and understood what i was trying to acheive. He was great at communication for any upcoming scheduling, or cancelations. They would always return messages if the phone was not answered immediatly. I know others who have also had very successful cases. Because of this i would highly recomend him as a lawyer. 2020
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06 Oct, 2017 by Quinn b
I hired Mr. Rank to handle the legalities of a agreed, uncontested divorce for me in May of 2017. He most happily accepted my flat rate payment in full, up front. June, July, August, and half of September I couldn't get in contact with Mr. Rank after placing 13 calls into his office. I was always told "he is very busy, and will call you back shortly". After MONTHS of waiting for a reply from my paid attorney, my soon to be ex wife got tired of waiting (as did I) for a response from Mr. Rank. So she then sought out and revived the required paperwork from a legal assistance firm, and was able to get a court date set. So, fast forward to one week before court. Mr. Ranks secretary calls me to set an appointment, I arrive and have to inform Me. Rank of the pending court date. So now, with a sense of urgency, my wife and I struggle to get a decree that will be acceptable to the court, and email Mr. Ranks secretary back and forth until we have a "valid" document, with the Guarantee that Mr. Rank will validate it himself. Now, the day of court. Mr. Rank shows up 45 minutes late, and informs me that the decree isn't acceptable. When I express my shock as to how this can be, on the day of court, he informs me that " I didn't have time to review the decree" and the only reason was " you're not my only client". His position was that I needed to "grow a pair, and just take that BI+@# to trial". I'm very embarrassed to say that I gave Mr. Rank another $1,000 against what it would cost IF it went to trial. Following week, my wife and I has over the agreement, completing 4 revisions before I take what we believe to be an acceptable decree to Mr. Ranks office to have it approved. Another week goes by, then I get the appointment. Mr. Rank at that point hadn't completed ANY work on the agreement, and for some reason didn't have ANY of the information that had been emailed to his office time and time again during the YEAR. So, being obviously displeased with his lack of progress, I requested that the funds I put up in good faith against the possibility of trial be returned to me. And that's where his complete lack of work ethic and moral showed up clear as day. He had changed our "flat rate" contract I to an "hourly" contract without my knowledge or consent. Then informed me that my "up front, in full" payment was gone, and my in good faith payment against the possibility of trial was also gone. And that I owed him more money. Now, up to this point, he had not completed, or even made ANY progress towards validating the decree that he was too busy to even write up. My wife and I had to do it ourselves out of nessesity due to Mr. Ranks complete lack of work ethic. When I expressed my concerns with his lack of effort to date, his response was " you are annoying me now, you can sit in the waiting room, or leave". If you are considering hiring Mr. Rank as your attorney, I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND taking stacks of hundred dollars bills out of your bank account, and setting them on fire. The end result will be the same, but with less headache.
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12 Oct, 2024 by John
Well let me just put it out there Elizabeth Betty Sharon public defender has lied to me every time we talked.i took something to her office to have filed on my family law case witch was and is time sensitive to my case witch I was told that got filed and then about a month later we have a disagreement and a asked for a copy of my file because I asked her to withdraw from my case because she told me that she had over two hundred clients that she is representing so I told her that this would be good for me and her I said that would free up more time for the other tow husband clints she told me that she couldn't only a judge could take her off my case and I said hold on the first time you were appointed to hang me I made a complaint against you and you were off my case I don't know that happened then but I can't have it done now without a judge ok init so a few moments later she text me and said that she no longer was my lawyer and I was like ok I would like a copy of my hole file witch I did not get but she did give me back the paper work that I took to her office to file on my case a month prior and it was the original paper so I called Snohomish county public defender officer to find out who gaver her permission to not file it and the supervisor says that she no longer work with there office anymore and there was nothing she can do for me she would make a note of it witch means nothing so I looked this Elizabeth Betty Sharon public defender up to see fi she still works for the office and sure enough she does I'm not going to be ok with that would you NO these public defender are breaking the law so many times on my case alone they should be in jail them self and I have the paper work to prove it they are not helping family's they are destroying them someone will help me they need to be sued
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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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