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04 Oct, 2024 by Sharon ban
Lorilee and her staff are exceptional. They made the estate planning process stress-free and seamless. I highly recommend Lorilee for estate planning.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Daniel d.
Great experience all around. Started process of getting work permit and GC for out-of-status spouse at Santa Rosa office in August 2023. After giving a summary of our situation, Arash laid out a timeline of roughly 2 years of what we needed to do as far as documents, medical exams, etc. Our case was then handed to the Sacramento office where we worked with Sumit for the remainder (mostly online with email correspondence, which was convenient). Work permit was acquired in April, and GC acquired the following August (even with having a notice to submit more docs due to insufficient evidence). Expectations exceeded and couldn't be happier with the outcome.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Lia le
I discovered Yasrebi Law Firm through a Google search. My case was somewhat complex, as I was a VAWA applicant seeking naturalization. From start to finish, the process was smooth and efficient. His team filed my case promptly, and just three months later, I received my interview appointment. Yasrebi accompanied me to the appointment and provided valuable insights on what to expect during the interview. On a personal level, Yasrebi is approachable and personable; from a professional standpoint, he is direct and punctual. I highly recommend this law firm to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Jessica lindsey
Alisha and team were amazing. Quick to respond to any questions I had and also persistent obtaining info required from the other party involved. Great experience.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Matt davis
Wine Country Law were very professional and came well prepared. Lindsay was a first class lawyer.
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10 Feb, 2024 by Kathryn klein
I felt as though they truly cared about me. They always returned my messages promptly and worked hard on my behalf.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Evan weise
He is an extraordinary lawyer. I know three other people who have used his services, and we are all amazed in his performance and professionalism inside and outside the courtroom. He goes above and beyond, making sure you reach the most favorable and fair deal/ verdict possible with the prosecutor.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Gerardo amador
Evan Zelig was very supportive, clear, and understanding throughout the whole process of my legal case. Evan answered all my questions in clear detail and made sure I completely understood the following steps. Evan was very realistic when it came to certain legal outcomes (considering the circumstances), but reassured that he would do his absolute best in achieving the outcomes we both set in mind. For the record, Evan was able to achieve the best and favorable outcome for my situation. I am very happy that I hired Evan Zelig to represent me in my legal case and could have not asked for a better representation on my behalf. I would highly recommend Evan Ziegler for legal representation.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Esme valencia
I hired Evan Zelig for a friend and I am so happy I did. Evan is an amazing attorney I will highly reccomend him! From start to finish he worked hard to get my friend the best outcome even though it was not easy because he had gotten 3 DUI within a one year period. When we met Evan he was very kind and was honest about what he thought could happen. Once he took the cases he always kept us in the loop of what was going on thru the entire process with the courts. He always communicated and was fast to return our calls when he was unavailable. When we looked online to find someone to help many choices came up but we decided to go with him and are so happy we did. Thank you so much for all your hard work Evan we will for ever be grateful! If you need an attorney do not hesitate call Evan Zelig!
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01 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Bret and his team at "A Family Law Firm" were knowledgeable, supportive, and professional. It was easy to communicate with them, and my emails and questions were always answered promptly. I received appropriate advice from them, which made the process of my divorce easier.
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30 May, 2024 by Melvin151515
Under the best of circumstances, divorce is difficult. I didn’t think I needed an attorney. I was wrong. Joann and company did not tell me what I wanted to hear. They told me what I needed to hear. In the end, it came down to the fact that I had a much better attorney. More organized. More proactive and knowledgeable. And dare I say it, more aggressive. Divorce is like whack a mole. And a box of chocolates.
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24 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Excellent communication skills, fast and good attitude. Responsible good documentation.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Evan weise
He is an extraordinary lawyer. I know three other people who have used his services, and we are all amazed in his performance and professionalism inside and outside the courtroom. He goes above and beyond, making sure you reach the most favorable and fair deal/ verdict possible with the prosecutor.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Gerardo amador
Evan Zelig was very supportive, clear, and understanding throughout the whole process of my legal case. Evan answered all my questions in clear detail and made sure I completely understood the following steps. Evan was very realistic when it came to certain legal outcomes (considering the circumstances), but reassured that he would do his absolute best in achieving the outcomes we both set in mind. For the record, Evan was able to achieve the best and favorable outcome for my situation. I am very happy that I hired Evan Zelig to represent me in my legal case and could have not asked for a better representation on my behalf. I would highly recommend Evan Ziegler for legal representation.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Esme valencia
I hired Evan Zelig for a friend and I am so happy I did. Evan is an amazing attorney I will highly reccomend him! From start to finish he worked hard to get my friend the best outcome even though it was not easy because he had gotten 3 DUI within a one year period. When we met Evan he was very kind and was honest about what he thought could happen. Once he took the cases he always kept us in the loop of what was going on thru the entire process with the courts. He always communicated and was fast to return our calls when he was unavailable. When we looked online to find someone to help many choices came up but we decided to go with him and are so happy we did. Thank you so much for all your hard work Evan we will for ever be grateful! If you need an attorney do not hesitate call Evan Zelig!
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05 Dec, 2023 by Kelly fleury
Worst experience with an attorney in my entire life- I couldn’t afford to pay his exorbitant costs anymore and as such he said he was dropping my case Instead he continued to work behind my back with my ex husband and his lawyer for 3 months and attempted to have my son taken away from me He never once made any contact with me or my children or ex lawyer to hear anything we had to say Worst parenting coordinator in Sonoma County by far Don’t use him unless you want to give him all of your money to get him on your side Otherwise he leaves you out to dry Run if the courts suggest you use him
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19 Aug, 2023 by Jared bertoli
Shawn Bunyard is a great attorney and more importantly a great man. I can assure you he and his firm have the child's best interest in mind.
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17 Dec, 2021 by Khristina
Robin is kind, honest and direct. I hired her because I wanted to approach my divorce in a respectful way and she appropriately handled my case this way. She is very knowledgeable about and can successfully navigate the Sonoma County Superior Court system which is beneficial to her clients.
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18 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
I had a consultation with Ms. Browne when looking for an attorney. I could not work with her for personal reasons. I strongly recommend her. She is wise, kind, and knowledgeable. Not a combination that is easy to find,
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21 Feb, 2022 by Gloria
Divorce something I never thought I would be going through. I was desperate and needed guidance and I found Jeanne!! Can't thank her enough for her services. She made things seem so easy during the process, she cares about the people she's helping. Thanks to her I found courage and strength during this hard time I could not have done this without her. I left it all in her hands and I would do it again if I had to. Thank you very much Mrs. Jeanne my children and I are forever grateful.
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08 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I was often frustrated with how long it took Jeanne to follow through on things during divorce process. Things she should have taken care of didn't get done. I relied on her to know, and make sure I knew, the things that needed to be done. Ultimately, she didn't follow through on a very important final detail. It resulted in costing me several thousands of dollars and months of time consuming/stressful phone calls and letters to unraveling the mess. when I contacted her for help, she was willing to talk with me, send me a copy of my settlement, and make a phone call; but anything more than that and she "would have to charge me for her time". Not exactly the way I would have handled it if I had made that mistake.
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05 Dec, 2023 by Kelly fleury
Worst experience with an attorney in my entire life- I couldn’t afford to pay his exorbitant costs anymore and as such he said he was dropping my case Instead he continued to work behind my back with my ex husband and his lawyer for 3 months and attempted to have my son taken away from me He never once made any contact with me or my children or ex lawyer to hear anything we had to say Worst parenting coordinator in Sonoma County by far Don’t use him unless you want to give him all of your money to get him on your side Otherwise he leaves you out to dry Run if the courts suggest you use him
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19 Aug, 2023 by Jared bertoli
Shawn Bunyard is a great attorney and more importantly a great man. I can assure you he and his firm have the child's best interest in mind.
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13 Sep, 2021 by Be tron
I dont know what happened but shawn said he was going to fight for my mom. We didnt feel that it happened. He said he was going to fight for half of the properties the pention and spousal support the car and so on. None of that happened except half of the pention and the house was sold but my dad ended up keeping the properties and the car. And all this took forever to end but my mom isnt happy with the outcome of how he said he was going to get all this and didnt get it like he said. I honestly dont recomend. I thought he was going to do more and didnt. My dad basically got to keep everything
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08 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Perhaps if you are looking for someone to escalate, increase conflict and wreak havoc on the other party, Kate is worth your hire. But, she was assigned as our child's minor counsel in a high-conflict divorce and she caused irreparable harm to my child. Immediately siding with the charming, manipulative abuser, she filed false allegations against the protective parent, which shifted custody in the abuser's favor and never reverted back, despite evaluations proving her allegations were unfounded. She in no way represented our child's best interests and instead didn't invest the time, energy into fully understanding our admittedly complex case. She is a shame to the system and should not be serving as minor's counsel for any child.
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09 Mar, 2020 by Marco
Kate and her team including Danielle have been my rock throughout this process. Would not have accomplished what I have accomplished with them. Worth every cent! Caring and compassionate! Definite passion for family law and doing what is right!
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29 Aug, 2019 by Amber
Kate has been a great help. She is sensitive to my situation, but also honest and straight forward with what needs to happen. I am currently going through a custody battle and Kate has helped me through it. She gave me guidance when I felt completely lost. Her advice and insight are priceless. Although I hope to never have to hire Kate again and be in this situation, I would hire her in a heartbeat.
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05 Jan, 2022 by Csp
At first she was sweet and I believed that she had my best interest. But once I paid her the money she asked for she became Angry and told me that if I didn’t respond to her text within an hour she would fire me. I just left the first attorney who was failing miserably for this lady. She also worked with the other side and was getting paid under the table and when asked what was going on She denied it .But few days went buy .that 14000 bill we owed said paid in full. She has no loyalty and does not honor her word.please understand that anybody who had a good review of Roz I’m sure somehow someway was cocoo for coco pops
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05 Jan, 2021 by Joev
We went to court unprepared. I received a restraining order, my new attorney said Roz would have filed a form it would have gotten dropped. She went to court with me and did not say anything and let court run it’s course. I agree with other reviews, you get what you pay for.
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16 Dec, 2017 by A.b.c.
I hired Roz Bateman-Smith, Esq. for an extremely complicated and contentious divorce involving domestic violence/restraining order with a shared child/custody. She was extremely easy to communicate and work with and solidly reliable in my most troubling times. Her demeanor in a heated exchange in nothing short of composed and professional. One of the most important things to me is that I knew she truly cared about the safety of me and my children. After the divorce was finalized, I hired her once more. She represented me again in court after it was revealed my ex committed a horrible crime against a child. Once I knew I needed a lawyer she was the first and only lawyer I called! She helped prove that we needed even more protection in the form of strict supervised visitation, confidentiality of our location and a maximum term protective order. For the past two years, she's been invaluable and I will always be grateful for the role she played in the lives of me and my children.
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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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