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04 Oct, 2024 by Nayely
David worked in collaboration with Preston on the negotiations of my Marital Settlement agreement (when it became evident that I wouldn't be able to continue the divorce process on my own) all the way until the filed-endorsed copies of the Judgment arrived and the transactions of assets agreed uponwere completed.
The process of finding a lawyer in such a difficult personal time was very overwhelming, I talked with a couple more divorce lawyers before contacting the FKK&B LLP firm and I will forever be grateful for having been able to hire their service.
They were very patient with me when explaining my options, their ability to use hard cold facts to negotiate with opposing counsel was always on point and effective, their attention to detail, fast and clear communication to resolve my doubts (not just from them but from the Paralegal, Julia Morris) allowed me to maintain my peace of mind and stay focused on protecting my assets the best possible way, without doing any rushed actions. It took us about 10 months to fully settle and sign the agreement, I know that it would had taken me way longer if I'd attempted to negotiate on my own, I couldn't have done it without them.
I think they did a terrific job, you're in good hands with this team, would recommend them any day.
Thank you.
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10 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
David and his team were very helpful and kind. Divorce is never easy but with their help we were able to get to an agreement out of court saving us time and money. I would recommend Mr. Erb to anyone who appreciates professional, considerate, and honest service.
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02 Nov, 2022 by Daniel
David and his team did an excellent job representing me in my divorce. I was a client who came with experience working with other lawyers and working in Pro Per.
From the start David told me upfront that he’s more expensive than other lawyers. I had been going through the divorce process for almost 4 years at that time and had tried going the inexpensive route both in Pro Per and working with an attorney who had a lower hourly rate. Working In Pro Per was saving me money but I soon found out there was more at risk than what I thought. While working with an inexpensive lawyer, let’s just say you get what you pay for.
David himself is very articulate, punctual and professional. He knows the law and also leverages the intellectual capital of his colleagues to make sure your case has been reviewed from multiple angles. Though I may have paid more for David and his team on an hourly rate than I could have elsewhere, I feel that it was more than worth it due to the peace of mind they gave me, and they were able to accomplish more in 6 months than what an inexpensive lawyer did in 1.5 years at the same total cost.
David’s team works great together. They communicate very well both with each other and with me, the client. All three of them made me feel that mine was the only case they were working on and the only way you would know this wasn’t the case is when they were in court representing someone else.
I have no reservations recommending David and his team. I spent many hours interviewing numerous attorneys, as I’m sure most of you who are reading this will. I highly recommend David and his team; you’ll be in good hands.
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11 Feb, 2023 by Carol l
I highly recommend Jagar Family Law. Chelsea was very responsive and listened to all my concerns. She didn't push for litigation and was a successful advocate for me in settlement discussions. She helped me close this chapter of my life and months later, I'm still convinced this was the right decision. Couldn't have gotten here without her competent advice. She's fair, realistic and doesn't play games with opposing counsel.
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06 May, 2020 by Jackie
I can’t say enough positive things about Chelsea. I was the party of a nasty divorce with a narcissist; which is the worst divorce to encounter. After having two previous attorneys that wanted to play games, I hired Chelsea to complete remaining items. She was thorough and direct on completing the issues and knows the law better than any other. I also compliment her on her integrity and class, both in and out of the courtroom. She has a positive reputation with judges. I am also available for talking via the phone if you have more detailed questions in choosing an attorney as choosing the wrong attorney could be very costly.
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21 Apr, 2020 by Cp
Chelsea is knowledgeable and competent, and she has an excellent attitude. Her reasoned approach to my divorce made a big difference. In one of the more difficult moments for me, Chelsea was able to keep me focused - which is no easy matter. I am very grateful that I was able to work with Chelsea. Highly recommend.
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01 Nov, 2021 by Mekhala
Linda and David represented me in my divorce and my only regret is that I didn't go to them sooner. After spending almost a year and thousands of dollars in legal fees with another attorney (who was highly rated), I switched to their office.
Linda is very thorough, organized and efficient. She never asked me something twice and took great notes. She responded quickly on time sensitive issues. When we were nearing our settlement conference date, she worked some long evening hours to get things ready. Their office billed fairly and ethically and never nickel and dimed me. Linda was always aware that I was conscious of my costs and recommended things worth pursuing and those that were not. She and David got me a good fair settlement without trial and most importantly, helped close it relatively quickly, after my divorce had dragged on for a year and a half before I switched to them. I hope no one has to go through a divorce, but if you do, you need someone like Linda working for you.
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29 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Simona Zakheim to represent me in domestic violence restraining order, her expertise in the legal system proved that she knows how to protect her clients and deliver the best possible outcome. Not only I received granted restraining order but also a full custody of my child. I would highly recommend her to anyone who is in need of her services. Thank you, Simona!
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29 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Simona was referred to me by a family friend. I have been extremely pleased with her handling of my case. Simona takes the time to understand and consider my goals not only financially but to ensure the co-parenting relationship is also preserved. Her guidance has been crucial through the process; she has been willing to go to bat for me even when I may have otherwise agreed to something that would put me in jeopardy. Simona is quick to respond to my inquiries and keeps me in the loop every step of the way.
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29 Nov, 2022 by Matt
I had a high-conflict divorce case that took years to settle due to issues from the other side. Simona stayed calm, followed the law, provided me with exceptional guidance and, in the end, found a path to settlement that I didn't think would be possible. She did a fantastic job litigating a case that included six separate attorneys on my ex's side.
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01 Aug, 2022 by Amanda
Attorney's fees were found to be unconscionable so much as the judge wrote it in herself and initialed it on the FAOH. Once the request for fees were dismissed by the court, Cristin's office got busy and started calling me daily to collect. I paid them for every overcharged penny they billed for. They even billed me for time spent to attempt to remove the "unconscionable" note from the judge from the FAOH in which they were unsuccessful. Also, they were constantly changing staff and charging me hourly to update them on my case. Please run from the offices of Cristin Lowe, they are crooks and she couldn't care less about you and the vulnerable situation you are in.
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01 Jun, 2022 by Sarah
DO NOT USE CRISTIN LOWE...EVER!
I hired her in March 2021 for an extremely simple, non-contested, EASY Legal Separation from my husband. (We're still married but not "been together" for over a decade but live part time. get along, vacation together, raised our boys, and a fantastic platonic fun relationship).
She did an initial consult for 400 an hour. I hired her. I literally NEVER HEARD from her again! Not even being exaggerated.
She filed the initial separation in S.F. Superior Court and there is a 6 month wait period in CA. Early November 2021 (6 month wait period ended). Did I get my Legal Separation Agreement that I needed so I could then get the QDRO's done and all filed to Superior Court? NO. Mind you this was a NON CONTESTED, AGREEABLE Legal Separation. All we needed was the Agreement so then QDROs could be completed by a QDRO Attorney I already consulted with.
Tick Tock...month rolls on....I tried contacting her. She committed CLIENT ABANDONMENT!
December. 2021...January 2022...still NOTHING.
February 2022...nope...March 2022...nil.
In meantime, my Separation Agreement could've been done MONTHS ago.
I would've already been paid out by the retirement 401/457 of my husband as my settlement for 21 years of marriage. I wasn't going after any spouse support, there's no custody issue, no CALPERS pension so this was quick.
My husband is getting more impatient as months pass because of the legal separation, there is "hold" on the accounts so he can't contribute to his retirement accounts which brings his "net" TAXABLE income bracket higher. Her long delay not doing anything, we both have lost THOUSANDS (15k combined) in our accounts which impacts me greatly since its MY FINAL SETTLEMENT with my husband and I would've had the cash before all the losses if she DID HER JOB I HIRED HER FOR!
She NEVER RESPONDED to ANY email after initial hiring. Her paralegal kept saying I have it on her calendar to "catch up" and hopefully you'll get your agreement soon.
March 2022 rolls by and I had enough! It's already been a YEAR since the initial filing of our separation in Superior Court. All I need is the Legal Separation Agreement. This isn't rocket science! There aren't lawyers involved on both sides, there's no arguments with my spouse. VERY AMICABLE.
I waited 5 MONTHS for a simple painless, non-complicated Legal Separation Agreement. I terminated her at end of March 2022. Did she apologize? NO. Did she even bother to try to explain herself? NO. Just crickets as usual from her.
I hired another attorney April 1, 2022 who completed my Legal Separation Agreement in 3 DAYS! Got my QDRO's done right after and within a week I had everything needed.
Cristin Lowe didn't even KNOW that my husband's 401/457 company Mission Square are managers just like Fidelity or TRowe. They aren't even CALPERS or have anything to do with CALPERS which I already told her I wasn't going to touch his pension, so her filing a joinder in Superior Court for CALPERS in 2021 was stupid and unnecessary and cost me fees I didn't have to pay to begin with.
She will initially give "great advice" and be good in the consultation but after that? You'll never hear from her again.
NOT ONE UPDATE about your case, not one email to let you know the progress or next step. She should've had my Legal Separation Agreement READY TO GO and COMPLETED right when the 6 month wait period was over.
I had to call her office to make an appointment just to discuss the financial arrangement my husband I agreed upon. That is HER JOB TO CONTACT ME TO GET THE DETAILS so she could FINISH the legal separation agreement she didn't even bother to start. Junk attorney.
Cristin Lowe is the absolute worst and too expensive for the little she did. Charging for every email or phone call that you're forced to make to try to get any answer on the progress of your case. Horrid. DO NOT HIRE HER. YOU WILL REGRET IT.
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25 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Cristin is a true professional in the family law business. She’s on the expensive side, but specializes in the field and was totally worth the fees paid. Prompt answers to phone and email messages.
Please remember attorneys can not guarantee results, and they’re not responsible for the circumstances of the case. All they can do is act within the law and advocate your position in a court hearing. Family law judges have a lot of discretion, it’s not always the attorney’s fault if it doesn’t go your way.
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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.
