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02 Sep, 2024 by Kimberly poitra
Very helpful, responsive and reasonably priced.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Lauren lindeman
I have known Jamie, one of the attorneys at Holt Law, for many years and she is always professional, knowledgable, and has a strong work ethic. I highly recommend her.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Hayat butta
David Holt, the lead attorney at Holt Law, LLC, is a kind and dedicated individual who is always willing to help out where he can. He uses simple language and presents all the options available, helping you make an informed decision.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Kimberly poitra
Very helpful, responsive and reasonably priced.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Lauren lindeman
I have known Jamie, one of the attorneys at Holt Law, for many years and she is always professional, knowledgable, and has a strong work ethic. I highly recommend her.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Hayat butta
David Holt, the lead attorney at Holt Law, LLC, is a kind and dedicated individual who is always willing to help out where he can. He uses simple language and presents all the options available, helping you make an informed decision.
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31 Aug, 2024 by Cora
Highly recommend! Very quick response time weather, it was phone or email. Very knowledgeable in his work. If I had to do it all over again, I’d choose Josh!
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27 Apr, 2024 by John jirik
Joshua was great to work with. He was always quick to respond to all my questions. The whole process was much faster than I anticipated.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Ned peterson
I found Josh through a referral, and I could not have been happier with him. He is very knowledgeable, hardworking and
a great guy. He was quick to respond to my emails and text messages and was there for me from the start to finish. I would highly recommend Josh and his team.
Thanks again for all your hard work!
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28 Jun, 2024 by Helen schroeder
Susan Bowden is an exceptional advocate. She built a rock solid case for me, kept in close contact every step of the way, and brought about a very favorable conclusion. She’s caring, engaging and fierce! Anyone would be lucky to have her on their side.
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09 May, 2024 by Robbie skantz
Lisa and Michelle helped me navigate through one of the toughest experiences in my life. I felt I was well represented and at no time did I ever question my decision to use them. I recommend them very highly!
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25 Mar, 2024 by Annie thao
I cannot express enough gratitude for the outstanding legal support and representation provided by Susan and her remarkable team throughout my journey following a car accident. From the very beginning they demonstrated unparalleled professionalism, expertise, and genuine care.
From the initial consultation, Susan exhibited a deep understanding of my situation, listening attentively to my concerns and provided clear guidance on the legal process ahead. Her compassion and reassurance alleviated my worries, instilling confidence in her ability to navigate the complexities of my case.
Susan demonstrated exceptional negotiation skills during settlement discussions, advocating fiercely for my best interests while maintaining open lines of communication with me every step of the way. Her transparency and commitment to keeping me informed empowered me to make well-informed decisions, fostering a sense of trust and partnership that was truly invaluable.
Beyond their legal expertise, Susan and her team showed genuine compassion and empathy, recognizing the emotional toll the accident had taken on me. Their unwavering support and compassionate guidance provided me with comfort and reassurance during a challenging time in my life.
Thanks to the tireless efforts of Susa and her exceptional team, I recommend Susan to anyone in need of expert legal representation.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Alexis poinsett
Nice lady on the phone, cub foods wasn't in her line of business😢🤙🏿
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03 May, 2024 by Cole racek
09 Feb, 2024 by Reed beckler
Jenna worked diligently during my whole process. She listens and guides the client through the process. She explains the process and is honest as to the outcome. She is well connected as to individuals who will end up working with your family after the legal process is completed. I was very pleased with the final outcome. I would recommend her for assisting you through what I am sure is a difficult time. Just as it was for myself.
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03 Feb, 2015 by Bunny
Maria is one to trust to get the job done! Very good at what she does and gives you a sense a relief that you can rely on her to take care of it. I would recommend her to anyone that wants to win!
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02 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Maria handled my messy divorce and 5 years of residual issues in a concise manner with knowledge, fairness (to all parties involved) and with a calmness that help me get though those difficult years. I never felt in the dark, Maria always took the time to explain the why's, how's and possible outcomes. No matter what curve ball my ex threw, Maria had already laid the ground work or was able develop a plan that prevailed in the end. Maria's method of maintaining the highroad, sticking to the facts, made my divorce much less ugly. You can't go wrong retaining Maria Maier as your attorney.
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20 Oct, 2010 by Tim
I can't begin to express how amazing Maria was in handling my case. I filed for divorce in August of 2009 and my ex-wife immediately began an unimaginable mud-slinging campaign in an effort to gain sole custody of our children. I wanted to reply in kind and engage in that battle to refute all the lies my ex was putting forth. But, Maria had a great game plan which she came up with after our first court appearance. We would simply stick to the facts. At first, it was difficult to sit back and let my character be assassinated time and time again. However, it was very easy to trust the strategy that Maria had in place.
There were several times during my case that the outlook seemed bleak. I would get uptight, panicked or nervous. Maria was always there to explain the divorce process and tell me why we need to maintain our strategy. She was always available to answer any question, no matter how trivial it might have been. She would explain in detail why things were relevant to the court. Even if I had naïve questions like as why they were relevant, Maria explained how my course of action be in my best interests (and the best interests of my children) and how my actions would work in my favor in the long run. To say she has a firm grasp on divorce law and the entire divorce process would be a vast understatement.
It is now October of 2010 and my case has just concluded. I’m absolutely convinced Maria is part soothsayer. Her strategy played out exactly as we had discussed back in 2009. The custody evaluation worked out in my favor, just as Maria said it would. The judge saw through the mudslinging of my ex and focused on the facts, just as Maria said she would. While there are no winners in a divorce, I feel truly vindicated that I stuck to my convictions (thanks to Maria’s guidance) and the judge ruled very heavily in my favor.
This was the first instance I needed a lawyer for more than one day. I am absolutely elated that I chose Maria Maier to be that lawyer. Her expertise and guidance helped me through a very difficult transition in my life. I wouldn’t wish a divorce on anybody, but I would highly recommend Maria to anyone who needs an expert lawyer on their side should they find themselves facing a divorce.
Thanks Maria!!
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06 Feb, 2021 by Autumn
Eileen Krenner represented me in two situations after my divorce. I was somewhat disappointed with my prior attorney, and learned about Eileen through a colleague. What we appreciate so much about her approach is that she was always able to clearly explain the law and my rights and the rights of my children, but also able to calibrate based on my desire to try and maintain a healthy co-parenting relationship with my ex-husband. Always a kind and compassionate ear and sounding board. I highly recommend her and have recommended her to many friends.
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24 Feb, 2019 by Stacy
Eileen Krenner was recommended to me by a friend after I mentioned I was looking to hire an attorney for a third party custody issue. Eileen was honest and fair and I was never disappointed in the decision to hire her. She kept us well informed, was extremely professional and most importantly to me, showed compassion for our situation. I would highly recommend Eileen.
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16 Jul, 2015 by Lyle
I recommend Eileen Krenner very highly for family law services. She is very professional, prepares very well, communicates very well, is very thorough, is very pleasant to work with, and has done a great job with my case.
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28 Nov, 2016 by Sarah
James is a kind and caring lawyer. He helped me with a long divorce that involved getting custody of my daughter. It took a couple years to finally get it finalized. After the divorce James has been there for me anytime I need him when trying to go after my ex for child support. He always has your best interest at heart and truly cares about his clients. I highly recommend James
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04 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Capra was my Attorney throughout a very long and complicated 3 year divorce proceeding He argued on my behalf all the way to the Appeals Court with the final decision in my favor. He is professional and at times overly busy however does have your best interests at heart. I was referred to him on a Pro Bono request through SMRLS. He is ultimately the best out there. He will never be forgotten in my book.
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28 Jan, 2015 by Lyndon
James Capra is not just a lawyer, he's a hero to me. When you have a family issue that involves a child it's really tough, one of the hardest things that you will ever do.
So it's great to feel that you have someone on your side that is both competent and caring - James Capra is....... competent and caring.
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25 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Best atterny I have ever hired and deal with ....he is very honest ,respectful,responds as soon as possible , care for his clients , affordable,trustworthy,deserve the money and I recommend that you take him as your attorney...very pleased with his services.. defend his client with all he can .....for sure I would like to hire him again if I ever needed him ......
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08 Jul, 2010 by Anonymous
We highly recommend Attorney Brad Newbolt and the Bradley W. Newbolt Law Firm. He will be honest with you, yes, an honest attorney!; he is responsive returning calls within 24 hours (and usually within minutes or an hour or two at most); his rates are very affordable especially considering the quality work he provides. We recommend that you make the Bradley W. Newbolt Law Firm your first and only stop for your legal needs; we did and we could not be more pleased.
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11 Oct, 2022 by Leann
Assistance provided was with Restraining order and Custody concerns.
I had made several calls and consulted with many attorneys before asking Emily to represent me. I have been working with Emily for almost a year if not more. It was very difficult for me to hire an attorney because there is much to consider like communication, price, availability, experience, etc.
I must say, I am pleased that Emily Peterson was able to pick me up as a client.
She helped me with obtaining a restraining order and dealing with a custody issue. The restraining order was incredibly nerve wracking yet, Emily made the process better and gave me other resources to use in addition to her. She maintained a quick turnaround to answer my questions and calls. She was encouraging and provided me with honest feedback. I knew what my choices were and what could happen by selecting those choices.
I was incredibly impressed and satisfied with our interaction. We did everything electronically, this helped me tremendously. I have already recommended her to others. I am especially happy that I didn’t have the stress of dealing with attorney who was not communicating back with me. She was organized, diligent, and responsive.
I will continue to recommend her and will absolutely use Emily again if I should need to.
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25 Oct, 2021 by Eileen
I would not have made it through what was undoubtedly the most difficult year of my life, without Emily. I am sure there isn’t a short supply of competent attorneys in the Twin Cities, but I am not sure many are as compassionate and committed as Emily. Her expertise and legal acumen were critical in the process in reaching the best possible outcome. But, it was her kindness and unending support that also got me through. She is very hardworking. Emily was incredibly responsive. Getting back to me quickly and at all hours of the day. She always made me feel like a top priority. There were days I would call or email 20 plus times, she never made me feel like an inconvenience, the opposite I always felt valued. There were no dumb questions. Emily walked me through every step of the way. She made a daunting and scary process so much easier for me. In the end, I walked away with the most optimal agreement possible. I highly recommend Emily Peterson, she is an excellent attorney and wonderful person.
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08 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend Amy. She is efficient, practical and easy to work with.
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22 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Amy, she has been my lawyer for years (long process divorce & custody).
She is available for her clients above and beyond.
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15 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Amy was VERY EASY to talk to; she'd explained things in a manner I could understand, and even CITED the statutes off the top of her head within conversation!
She attached my missing documents necessary via TIMELY EMAIL [I currently have limited resources]; by the time of the hearing I FELT confident. I FELT prepared for "worst case scenario". I would STRONGLY recommend her, just by the brief consultation we have had.
Lastly, she was unbiased and LISTENED; I did NOT feel like "just another case." I believe that is what stood out to me the most.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Hector matascastillo
Allison is not only someone who will represent you with professionalism but also someone who will protect your dignity and your interests with sound methods. I appreciate that she can see through the issues with wisdom and provide counsel with integrity. She is personable and a consummate professional. I don't know what I would have done without her. Thank you, Allison, and your team.
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23 Aug, 2023 by Fernando f
Allison took a very difficult case petitioning to review and a hearing for a closed divorce case. This due to shenanigans from petitioner's attorney on initial court hearing, court procedure not followed, no effort mediation on petitioner's part, and attorney's fees - all around petitioner being awarded my primary home. The case was reopened for review, at the end: I was awarded 100% equity and rights to my home and my attorney fees.
Your mileage may vary, but know this: This is likely your best mileage option!
Thanks a million Allison!
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27 Nov, 2022 by P c
Never get my call back
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18 Jan, 2023 by Nasrudin abdi
13 Dec, 2022 by Joe rittmann
31 May, 2022 by Zack adeed
Excellent team! Ben, Dresden and Ferdinand helped me and my family through a long litigation that took more than three years to resolve. Through that time the legal team fought for us in court, stayed in constant communication with me, and most importantly delivered a win in court. I highly recommend this firm.
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18 Jan, 2023 by Nasrudin abdi
13 Dec, 2022 by Joe rittmann
31 May, 2022 by Zack adeed
Excellent team! Ben, Dresden and Ferdinand helped me and my family through a long litigation that took more than three years to resolve. Through that time the legal team fought for us in court, stayed in constant communication with me, and most importantly delivered a win in court. I highly recommend this firm.
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29 Oct, 2023 by Erin ipsen-borgersen
21 Oct, 2023 by Hope tims
Steven was very helpful. He didn’t give up on my case and saw it through to the end!
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09 Aug, 2023 by Dawn b
I was pregnant 🤰🏾 and I was in a car collision where I was rear ended. I was pretty banged up because not only was I pregnant but it was also winter as well. Adam and his Team are so professional and experienced. I truly appreciate the effort they put forth during the full process of my case. They made sure I got everything I needed to heal and get better faster. They were knowledgeable about the care and where I would need to go in order to get better faster. They work with the best of the best of care for their clients. I would highly recommend Adam to anyone who has been in a car accident. I was fairly, honestly and handsomely compensated for my pain and suffering.
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4.6
20 Reviews
4.2
50 Reviews
04 Oct, 2024 by Kari
Lisa is a fierce advocate for her clients. Midway through my case, I switched attorneys and I am so glad I did. Lisa provided insights and expertise that were critical to turning my case around and repairing my reputation with the court. Adaptable and flexible, Lisa was able to pivot quickly as the need arose and come up with creative solutions. Working together, Lisa and Chris draw on each others strengths and are a powerful force. I highly recommend Banas Law for child custody.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Christian ovalle
02 Jul, 2024 by Victoria stepanek
Chris always had my back and in the end I got what I wanted and more! Chris is definitely the one to call. He worked with me on so many things and I couldn’t have been any happier!
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30 Jul, 2023 by Mitzi hughes
Craig represented my husband numerous times. Each time he won our cases.
Craig is honest fair and knows the law.
Thank you Craig for working so hard for us.
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28 Apr, 2023 by Ala rose
Professional. Knowledgeable. Precisely the attorney I needed. Many thanks.
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02 May, 2022 by R alvarez
Craig represented me in court many times on several subpoenas. He defeated all of them, so I never had to go to court. WAY TO GO CRAIG, THANKS AGAIN His knowledge of the law is excellent.
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05 Apr, 2021 by Kurt
Over payed looking for a cash cows. Still in courts fighting. After paying her tons of cash
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04 Jan, 2019 by Jill
Gloria's knowledge and professionalism made my 2017 divorce much easier to get through. While uncontested, I was extremely pleased with how quickly it was finalized (less than 6 months start to finish). Gloria provided valuable advice, particularly around the handling of parenting time for my older teens. She is very knowledgeable, responsive and direct -- all the qualities you would want in a divorce attorney.
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26 Sep, 2016 by Tiffani
I found Gloria to be very sound in thought with my divorce. She met with me and discussed options for my divorce (no children). She was prompt to respond with my questions!
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13 Aug, 2024 by Rob leroy
15 Apr, 2024 by Lovey-4ever angelique
Coyldnt get through for help.
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22 Dec, 2023 by Huso kocaman
Very nice Attorneys
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18 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
If you are a father and have a high conflict ex who does everything in her power to limit or stop your parenting time, do not use this woman as a parental consultant. She will follow the mothers visitation agreement to a T, but will change yours to fit what the mother wants. She charges attorney fees. Fathers, just take your ex back to court and get more parenting time Ordered. Get a lawyer and don’t waste your money on this lady.
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15 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
She sugar coated everything and mislead me at the beginning. She was favoring the other party. She wasted my money and messed up my case.
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14 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Did nothing except send emails and bogus phone call and was charging $250 an hour for a work that could have been done by an office clerk.
She was siding with the other party.
What kind of lawyer do this???
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22 May, 2021 by Nicoleva vu
20 Jan, 2020 by Thomas vue
Was expecting more with the money he asked for.
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06 Aug, 2019 by John doe
He lost my case. Not so sure if it was intentional or it's just that he's not good enough. It's a waste of money if you ask me. Maybe it was the way that the system was set up... His ex-partner is the same.
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30 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
The prior reviewer's comments are spot on in every way. From her unprofessional and combative manner to her unsubstantiated accussations to her lack of listening skills, she not only exacerbated the ill will between me and my ex but simultaneously damaged my poor children for whom she was supposedly advocating for as parenting consultant. She is downright rude, doesn't discern fact from fiction, can't recall her own decisions even though she authored them, and lacks follow through. She overly inserts herself into the case matters and creates issues instead of resolving them....why? Why not? From her perspective each set of co parents is viewed as a revenue stream. It isn't about helping two ex partners resolve issues relative to the children they are co parenting, it is about the money...
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13 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
Mary Lauhead at times does not see the unintended consequences of her approach towards litigation. While she can be an ardent advocate for her client, she doesn't realize her combative manner alienates co-parents and eliminates any good will. She makes unsubstantiated accussations designed to character assassinate the opposite side. I have found her to be lacking in civility, always combative, and seeks to always have the last word. She is not a good listener and has ruined my relationship with my former spouse.
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14 Jan, 2013 by Derrick
Paid nearly 10k to have her represent me. Only showed at 2 mediations. The second mediation was postponed but i was not informed of this so I wasted half a day trying to find out what was going on. Rarely answered her voicemails from me and would tell me she did not get them. That was several times. Did not even try to go after my wifes company or bring up active appreciation which I heard about from 3 other attorneys after she dropped me. But she was nice enough to offer my 401k up to compensate for my wifes marital debts. I would ask for any advice on how to get through this process and got no advice but was charged for every call or email i assume because what I spent seems brutally high for someone to only show up at 2 mediations for a few hours each time and at the end of the second mediation, i was told that I would be allowed to only keep my car I bought when I was 17 long before my marriage while my wife was allowed to hide her 1/3 of the family business she was given while we were together. I am convinced that she honestly did not care what happened to me at all for the last 4 months I was paying her. I understand that it's a divorce and not all roses but she did absolutely nothing for me. The things she was telling me to agree to in the second mediation were truly insulting and I was speechless. I did not agree to anything and the letter of withdrawal of councel was just as insulting when she told me how close i was to settling. If she had her way, i would have had nothing and unfortunately i am almost 10k poorer. Before the divorce...
After talking to two other attorneys, i was told I could probably do a better job representing myself and i should just go to court because i was being offered nothing by my wifes attorney so i couldn't do any worse than that...
Words cannot describe how disappointed I am in choosing her.
Very poor service, but had the excuses at the ready and lied to my face to cover her own tail.
I could go on and on with this... But i guess I can sum it up as without a doubt, the worst money I ever spent and I plan to continue to spread the word on how I feel about her.:-(
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20 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
We were very disappointed in the quality of Kurtis representing us. We wrote 90% of our own petition, gather our own MPD reports for our case. He made several grammar errors in our petition and we had to proof read everything!!! Not a good experience at all. My stress was through the roof!! I had to defend myself on my own.
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01 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
This is the most unprofessional Lawyer I have ever used. He has no basic manners, always tardy, scruffy looking and never on time. He has no secretary yet he never picks his calls when you call his cell phone. He also never returns calls. When you send him an email, he hardly responds and if at all he does, will respond after a week. The only thing that Bobby Sea is interested in is MONEY. He doesn't care about you or your case and has no regards whatsoever for his clients. The man is a complete JOKER. I still dont know how he passed Law school
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
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.
