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Christopher Joseph Tamms, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Westerville, OH with 87 reviews
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43,92
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4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
21 Reviews
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4.8
66 Reviews
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10 Jan, 2025 by Devi
In such times like divorce having a trusted advocate Christopher Tamms by my side can make all the difference. From the very first consultation, it was clear that Chris was not just knowledgeable about the law but also deeply compassionate about the people behind the cases. He took time to listen—truly listen—to our fears, hopes, and concerns. This ability to connect on a personal level is a rare and invaluable trait in any attorney, and it has undoubtedly provided comfort to me navigating the challenges of divorce. Chris understands the importance of maintaining relationships, especially when children are involved, and works tirelessly to ensure that the process is as amicable as possible. Thank you for being a beacon of hope during one of life’s most challenging journeys. We(Me and my kids) are truly fortunate to have you as our advocate.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Jeff gubernath
After an exhaustive search for a divorce attorney, I spoke with Christopher Tamms. He took nearly an hour of his time both on the phone and in person on three occasions before I hired him. If I had gone with another attorney, he would have been out any compensation. His demeanor was very approachable, and he seemed very competent. I appreciated his knowledge of financial matters related to my case. As the case moved on, I never felt like he was too busy to take my call or answer any questions I had. Ultimately, my case was mutually dismissed after a year. I expected that my retainer would have expended, but I was pleasantly surprised when Mr. Tamms advised me that I had a refund. Hopefully, I will not need Mr. Tamms services in the future, but he would be my first call if that situation arises.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Greg deel
I cannot recommend Jennifer enough! It is likely the most stressful time of your life when you need her services, but I can say that you will feel completely at ease almost immediately upon discussing your concerns with her. I know it happened in my case! Do not overlook the CaJacob Law Group! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
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Gary Jay Gottfried, experienced Child Support, Family Law attorney in Westerville, OH with 20 reviews
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43,62
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
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07 Jun, 2023 by Matthew
I will admit that I am a difficult client. I am hard headed, quick tempered, fast to act, and I think I know better. Gary worked with me through my two plus year divorce even though I am that difficult client. He talked me through different issues, gave me options and sage advice. We got the result we were looking for. Gary is a smart, seasoned lawyer that will give you good advice in a timely manner. He put up with all my BS, but got me through my divorce. For that, I will be ever thankful.
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15 Jan, 2023 by Brad
Mr. Gottfried handled my case for three years now. My son’s mom filed to reduce my time, which we had 50/50 for the last seven years before she filed. Meeting with Mr. Gottfried for the first time I knew he was my guy. He is very prompt in returning calls and e-mails and I can say this promptness has not dropped the slightest over the last three years (even on his days off). He made sure when the trial date finally came that we had everything lined up to negate everything she filed plus things that could come up in trial so we were ready to present them to fight. He makes sure you are prepared for any questions and have evidence to back you up. We have gone through a magistrate appeal and now seven more months later it is looking like she will appeal the judge’s decision. Not only did Mr Gottfried have a rebuttal for all of her bogus claims, we actually asked for an additional over night to which it was granted. When this is dragged out over three years so far, there are times to which you question yourself. Mr Gottfried would reassure me and talk me down from those times. He is honest with you, some attorneys are there to collect a check, but not him. He gave me his opinion when I asked, based off his career in these cases, but also said it’s up to you Brad. I cannot say enough about him or give him the praise he deserves. I have referred friends to him because he is the best…period! If you are in need of an attorney for custody cases, call him. You will not be disappointed, trust me.
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16 Aug, 2022 by Jacob
Gary represented me phenomenally as an expert witness, he was highly astute and Incredibly cognizant and professional. Although my case ended before it went to trial I felt that his contributions made a huge impact and I was so thankful to have received his services, he would be the first person I go to if I find myself in that situation again.
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Dianne Dinapoli Einstein, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Westerville, OH with 116 reviews
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40,70
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4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
112 Reviews
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03 Dec, 2024 by David toney
The Law Office of Einstein and Gibson provided outstanding support and guidance during my custody case, offering excellent legal advice and exceptional customer service. Megan Gibson is, without a doubt, one of the best attorneys in Ohio for custody and family law cases. Her deep knowledge of the law and ability to clearly explain complex legal matters made the process much easier to navigate. The entire team at Einstein and Gibson demonstrated professionalism, care, and commitment throughout my experience. I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking top-tier legal representation.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Jackson stotlar
I worked with Megan Gibson and was very pleased! She was expeditious, careful, and kind. I had the pleasure of meeting Dianne as well and equally impressed. If I ever needed family or business legal services in the future, I would return to Einstein & Gibson without hesitation.
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12 Nov, 2024 by Eric waite
I have worked with Dianne previously and more recently Sadie and they both were phenomenal. They both are very knowledgeable and helped me every step of the way to make sure I understood my options. Dealing with the divorce process or understanding how child support is calculated can be very tedious and frustrating so I would highly recommend them if you need any help.
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Megan Michelle Gibson, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Westerville, OH with 33 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
40,64
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4.8/5
Avvo
4.6
15 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
18 Reviews
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29 Jul, 2024 by Jonathon roullard
Transparent and excellent to work with
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rhonda hollis
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08 Jul, 2024 by Paul semeraro
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Alison Anne Gill, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Westerville, OH with 3 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
36,29
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4.6/5
Avvo
4.6
3 Reviews
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29 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Ive been married 33 years. I am 61 years old. This is a first marriage for both my husband and I. I have 7 children. Two are engineers, one is a professional Chef, one has his own business plus he just was promoted into supervision, one is deceased (he was 11, (traumatic accident), one is a high school junior, and one adult daughter who is a mess! Only 1 child lives at home. Five kids are independent. I graduated from college with a BSN and graduate school in social services. I stopped working 7 years into the marriage. I was making 50K per year. Twenty-six years ago I quit my job to stay home and homeschool (est 18 yrs) Since my sons death 10 years ago, Ive had numerous health problems. Some still affect me. Breast Cancer since Fall 2011 with sx, chemo, rad, and new medication protocol. I achieved stabilization going on 4 years. New medication protocol has inhibited progression. This is not remission, or cure. The tumors are numerous, still present, non growing or spreading. There is no pain or obvious physical abnormalities. I do have hideous under clothes scarring from r breast sx. Ive had 2 total knee sx (1, 3 mos. ago, 1, 4 yrs ago) with great relief (arthritis). I have mental illness starting at age 8 yo. (This mental illness waxed and waned until my late 20’s). Medication even at this time was poor at best. I began medication for this illness in my early 30’s. I had stabilization of my mental illness without any hospitalizations until my sons death (31+years) After his death I had several hospitalizations for depression and anxiety. I had not experienced depression until my son died. My husband is an engineer at AEP with an est salary of 115k per year. By choice he spends 2 weeks per month with his aged father (94 years old) in Florida. No other family members participate in his fathers limited mobility and other age related difficulties. Several members live within 3 to 15 miles of my father in law. My mother in law is deceased. This is the dilemma. My husband is requesting a separation in 2 years when my daughter graduates from High School. Should our home be sold now, he would relinquish all proceeds to me. Although our marriage is far from enjoyable, this has shaken my world! His demands for a separation are questionable at best. Unfortunately my husbands extended family had and still has many secrets. In brief, this family was the “armpit” of both sides. My husband was not as well cared for as was and is his brother and his friends. His parents all but ignored our children. They preferred extra marital liaisons, verbal ugliness, stealing, lying, excessive alcohol use and cheating. Sadly, I am well aware of way, way too, too much! It is all but ridiculous! After marrying him I became aware of how much my husband has always relished any and all attention he could receive from them. Our family has not received monetary gifts, cars, etc, like his brother. Sadly his parents relinquished much of their income to his brother and had limited retirement resources from this, and recently have. Moving out of Florida almost 20 years ago has suppressed our knowledge of the many things they have done. His parents are cynical of individuals who have good retirement assets. Recent time spent with his aging father has reprised my husbands longing for attention. My husband has also become cynical of others retirement. He is using monetary resources reserved for updating our house to put it on the market I have limited income from him at this time. He has verbally threatened to “ cut me off financially”. He identifies this as joking. His comments are not unlike the verbage of his Dad. It is truly annoying. Rude name calling is also common. My parents were not “terrific”. They had difficulties also. To my knowledge there was no extra marital relationships, stealing, etc. or alcohol use. They were frugal with their financial resources.
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20 Sep, 2018 by Rhonda
Alison represented me in my divorce.She is an excellent attorney.Very good at what she does.She is trustworthy and really cares about her clients.I would highly recommend her to anyone.
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21 Jun, 2013 by Kris
Alison is the most trustworthy and knowledgeable lawyer I know. I trust her with my most valuable assets being my children. She went way above and beyond the call of duty with my case and it was just a pleasure to watch her work.
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Anna Lynn Bates, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Westerville, OH with 3 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,04
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3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
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18 May, 2018 by J foster
I was represented by Anna Bates in my very sticky divorce and she represented me flawlessly. I had a Tentative Order issued from Magistrate Sanford which was about 95% of what I wanted and only issues the Magistrate could not decided on where left. Anna said that this is the best Tentative Order in a contested divorce case she had ever seen (and she was not tooting her own horn); it was the best and I was awarded sole custody and $2,500/month child support and my ex husband was placed on visitation. I was managing my child with ADHD and it was very difficult with a husband who left me for another woman and wanted to take every thing and our precious child and move his new girlfriend of two months into the house. Anna is an outstanding attorney and I have referred her many cases as well as her husband also (Bankruptcy lawyer). Go get 'em Anna. You are a GEM!
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13 Jul, 2012 by Sable
If not for Anna and her staff I wouldn't be able to see my kids, let alone have custody. Thanks to her willingness to fight for me, my kids and I are able to be together. Thanks Anna!
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08 Jul, 2012 by Paul
Hired Anna Bates to administer a trust for my ailing grandmother. Anna led me along the process, and seemed very knowledgable. However, when we arrived in court, Anna Bates showed up looking as though she had not slept in 3 days. Her attire was grungy, stained and no pressed. She seemed confused when the magistrate asked questions pertaining to the case, and struggled with some questions. It was later determined by the courts that Annas representation of the trust was questionable at best, and put me in a position to explain some very difficult questions. Sent an itemized bill (after I secured other representation after our first court debacle), and bill included various services which didn't even PERTAIN to the case. I'm not sure if she was trying to pull a fast one, or if she got my case confused with another. Could not reach anyone at Annas office (which I believe she runs from home) to discuss. Ended up paying entire bill.
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Danielle Elizabeth Davisroe, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Westerville, OH with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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Andrea Leigh Cozza, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Westerville, OH with 0 reviews
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4,00
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0.0/5
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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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