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22 Dec, 2024 by Diederik verhoef
After running into my first lawsuit due to a divorce I was seeking help from Cape Fear Family law. I ended up moving forward with Waneta Ellis and her team. This connection started of strong but with me continuing having to do my own homework to make sure no mistakes were made. Unfortunately soon after, it seemed to have become the familiar ponce sceem between the hired lawyer and the one from the opposing party sucking their clients dry and drive them to desparacy by stalling the complete case by not sending and or requesting certain critical info and therefore speeding up the process. As I understand there is no role model case, but there should have been a basic explanation of how things work in general as everything seemed very normal to Waneta. Even though Waneta seemed knowledgeable, she is as much as a sales shark trying to expend her services by asking for more money while already being hired. Maybe because text messages didn't make enough money, she was extremely slow in her responses with text messages during most of the process and impossible to reach by phone for a quick comforting answer unless completely scheduled ahead with a high bill attached! When my frustrations reached a boiling point in court due to a court agreement pushed by the judge and lawyers, she was happily shaking the hand of the opposing parties lawyer saying it was a pleasure working with him! While it turned out quickly it would only be me bleeding in this case, that didn't feel good at all! So, to say it lightly I didn't have the greatest of experiences with her and her team.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Sarah cobb
I hired Cape Fear Family Law in May 2024. Marcus Tingling was assigned my case. The purpose was to modify a custody agreement. Marcus managed to file the motion and request discovery, but was slow in requesting a court date. The opposing party did request a court date in the meantime, and the case was moved to Florida. Marcus was not on time to meet before court, unprepared, and made no compelling argument for the case to remain in NC. This process, resulting in the case being closed in NC, cost $8k. This ultimately felt like a money grab. I would not recommend Cape Fear or Marcus Tingling for your case.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Thalia curtis
I recently utilized Cape Fear Family Law services for child custody and child support. I was putting it off for so long trying to manage the difficulty of co-parenting with someone unable to truly co-parent in a respectful way. Kayleigh being assigned to my case was truly a blessing. I had so many questions and would get confused about all the details at times and she was so patient, so communicative, and efficient in every way. I am grateful that I took a chance with Cape Fear Family Law. I would recommend them, and Kayleigh specifically, to anyone going through a difficult divorce or subsequent custody battle. Her services were worth every penny. Thank you so much Kayleigh!
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03 Nov, 2024 by Christy mcdonough
Excellent law firm that was able to resolve my legal questions and issue quickly and efficiently. I recommend the team.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Janet holt
There are no words to express the level of confidence I have in Erin and her team. Having to hire an attorney during such a stressful time rips the soul out of you. Erin knows how to take you from beginning to end in the least painful way! I cannot explain the strength and support I was given along with a successful outcome.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Raelynn zolman
Erin and her team were amazing! They worked tirelessly to make sure I got walked away with what I needed to make a new beginning for my children and I! I highly recommend them! They all will be honest with the process, expectations, and all possible outcomes.
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22 Jun, 2023 by K.j.
I can't begin to put into words how lucky I feel to have been represented by Ashley Smith in my divorce and custody case. Ashley cares about her clients and during what was easily the scariest and most difficult time in my life, I was able to focus on what mattered, protecting my 7 yr old daughter, myself, work, and keeping a straight head knowing I had Ashley on my side to quickly navigate and provide outstanding advise during a chaotic time. She believed in me and was always available and immediately got back to me the numerous times I had to contact her. I was prepared most importantly for the 2 times we had to go in front of a judge and was calm on the stand because I listened to Ashley's advise. Unfortunately my case involved addiction and child endangerment. When going through something like this, you almost spend as much time contacting your lawyer as you do speaking to friends and family. Trust me when I say Ashley is the one you want fighting for you. These things are long and drawn out and I could not imagine confiding in and being represented by anyone else. Ashley is easy to speak to and highly respected among her peers and all in her industry and that was obvious to me. Ashley simply gets it done, quickly and professionally and is there for you to make sense of all the curveballs and things that can occur in a case like mine. I am forever grateful for what Ashley did for me and my family and I am stronger than ever after going through what I have because of an amazing support system I had and have, but knowing the leader of this was Ashley whether she knows it or not. Thank you Ashley!
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16 Nov, 2022 by Tammy
Outstanding at her job! Very caring and understanding! Cool calm collected and hit the nail spot on every time. Highly recommended
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14 Oct, 2022 by Karen
I cannot say enough about Ms. Ashley Smith. She is the eye of the storm. The part in the middle that is calm and stable while there is chaos spinning all around. Some of us, like me show up in her office vulnerable, clueless, scared, hopeless the list goes on. Ashley is not your therapist nor is she going to tell you everything will be fine but what she will do is listen, focus, instruct, compile, answer every single question, guide you. She will only reach out if she has to. Be patient because I can assure you she is working thoroughly on your case. I put all of my trust and fate in her hands and it was not easy. When it came time it was incredible to watch Ashley work. Her professionalism and determination is above and beyond. She is a true inspiration. I have friends who separated before I did and my case finished before theirs, Above all Ashley exceeded all of my wants, needs and expectations in the end. I can move on assured my son and I will be completely secure in our future and I have Ashley to thank for it all.
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03 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Tise was a highly professional and effective advocate for me in a contentious alienation of affection suit in which I was named as a defendant. From our initial consultation forward, Brandon spoke clearly about the various options, highlighting their respective benefits and drawbacks. His straight-talk put me instantly at ease and I never once questioned my judgment in relying on his counsel. In the end, he leveraged his expertise and experience to achieve a favorable outcome and saved me $$ and headaches.
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11 Jun, 2019 by Andrew
Mr. Tise helped me through a very tough time in my life. His work was throrough and efficient. He is very familiar with the law and legal process involved. He was able to navigate various challenges that arose from the other parties in this case. I would recommend you call him today.
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29 Mar, 2015 by Melissa
Brandon and his staff did an exceptional job defending me when my ex-husband attempted to reduce my child support as well as accusing me of co-habitation. My ex-husband was represented by a very well known attorney in Wilmington and Brandon and his staff came very well prepared in addition to coaching me on how to conduct myself on the witness stand. After five long days in court I came away victorious. I would highly recommend Allan Brandon Tise.
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18 Nov, 2018 by Jessica
In April I had an emergent situation come up and had to file for custody after previously not having to have an order. In addition, I was having to do so from 2 hours away. Ms. Loshinsky was great from the start. She was always prompt when returning my calls and emails and worked very hard to get the final outcome that I was hoping for. She did her best to make sure that I wasn't having to make unnecessary trips to and from Wilmington, etc. I know that during this process I probably drove her crazy, if I did, she never hinted at it. She was always patient and diligent. I would recommend her and I would use her again should the need arise. Thank you!
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12 Jun, 2018 by Alan
Attorney Loshinsky filed my divorce - which was not a cut and dry proposition. I was married to a Mexican National, and we had been married in Mexico City. She was able to get the papers served to my husband in an extremely cost-efficient way that served the requirements of the U.S. court the papers were filed with. She kept me up to date on all the happenings and accomplished the entire divorce process in an expedient and professional manner. I highly recommend her!!
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09 May, 2015 by S.l.
In a world of takers, trust becomes challenging. This intensifies when you're protecting young lives that mean the most to you. With a heavy situation, that I wish on nobody, Yuliya continues to act and react with a professionalism that I thought may have gone extinct.
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08 Dec, 2017 by Kristen
I hired Ms. Wright for a custody matter I had been dealing with for over 10 years. Ms. Wright was very thorough and extremely competent. On cross examination. she crippled the opposing party and in the middle of the hearing they dismissed their claim. She will fight for what is right, just and fair in the eyes of the Court. I highly recommend Ms. Wright as an attorney!
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14 Nov, 2024 by Beverly gillette
Mr hosford is the best at what he does very kind man do all he can for people thank you Mr Hosford for your help
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18 Oct, 2024 by Hayley braswell
He is beyond the best! Goes hard for his clients and his office staffs stands strong as well. They always do as they say in a fast timely manner.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Salaam
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07 Nov, 2021 by Tony
I was referred to Jamie Getty by my NJ family and matrimonial attorney five years ago. From day one, Jamie dove deep into the facts of my case, was able to decipher through more than ten years of court documents and was absolutely tenacious in advancing my case in North Carolina. Not only is Jamie a highly skilled professional and an excellent attorney, she took a personal interest in me and my children and left no stone unturned. We just won a trial by jury. I can’t thank Jamie enough for her efforts, passion and dedication. I have dealt with many attorneys, both professionally and personally, and by far Jamie is at the top of my list. I highly recommend her. ...
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21 Nov, 2017 by David
I have worked with Jamie for over a year with my divorce. She was very thorough and her experience (and the firms) in handling different situations was evident and helped in my case. She guided me through this tough time and transition in my life. I definitely recommend Jamie and her firm.
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15 Nov, 2017 by Amanda
Jamie Getty is Exceptional !! Superb and Top Notch !! I am so glad I have her as my lawyer. She is amazing at what she does and I trust her wholeheartedly !!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Michael stanley
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13 Dec, 2024 by Glenn schoonover
Brittany Hall handled my child support hearing. I am leaving 2 stars because the ultimate agreement was fair and was settled ahead of seeing a judge; however the initial agreement sent to me was full of basic calculation errors that you wouldn't expect from a professional. I ultimately pointed out the mistakes, and once the correct numbers were used in the calculator, she sent me an accurate proposal. I could have accomplished that myself. After the agreement was reached, I received a letter from the other party's state child support office indicating that they were not going to respect the agreement we had reached. Brittany refused to take my call. The outcome was satisfactory. However, I believe given the entire experience, there are better options for the money.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Allison walker
Brittany Hall represented me in my child custody case and she was AMAZING! She answered all of my questions in a timely manner, was thoughtful in her responses, was extremely well prepared when we had to go to court, and was a force to be reckoned with in the court room. I would absolutely recommend Brittany to anyone looking for a trustworthy and tough attorney!
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03 Nov, 2024 by Christy mcdonough
Excellent law firm that was able to resolve my legal questions and issue quickly and efficiently. I recommend the team.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Janet holt
There are no words to express the level of confidence I have in Erin and her team. Having to hire an attorney during such a stressful time rips the soul out of you. Erin knows how to take you from beginning to end in the least painful way! I cannot explain the strength and support I was given along with a successful outcome.
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15 Apr, 2024 by Raelynn zolman
Erin and her team were amazing! They worked tirelessly to make sure I got walked away with what I needed to make a new beginning for my children and I! I highly recommend them! They all will be honest with the process, expectations, and all possible outcomes.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Beverly gillette
Mr hosford is the best at what he does very kind man do all he can for people thank you Mr Hosford for your help
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18 Oct, 2024 by Hayley braswell
He is beyond the best! Goes hard for his clients and his office staffs stands strong as well. They always do as they say in a fast timely manner.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Salaam
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14 Nov, 2024 by Beverly gillette
Mr hosford is the best at what he does very kind man do all he can for people thank you Mr Hosford for your help
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18 Oct, 2024 by Hayley braswell
He is beyond the best! Goes hard for his clients and his office staffs stands strong as well. They always do as they say in a fast timely manner.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Salaam
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04 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Not sure of this person as an attorney, but she has no problem slamming others on social media about politics. For someone who claims to be a family attorney, who doesn't even know me, she ridiculed my marriage by saying my husband must have cheated since we share a FB account. Who would want to hire someone like that? She also ridiculed a typo....all out of hate and ignorance. For someone who provides a service, she is not doing herself any favors by acting like this on a social media platform. I wouldn't allow her to represent me pro bono, let alone pay her.
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30 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
She always answered my calls and questions and kept me informed along the way. My case was a complicated custody dispute and she worked hard to get the best possible outcome for my kids and me.
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26 Jul, 2010 by Anonymous
Worked hard to get me the best outcome possible. Returned calls and reponded to my questions.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
she is first and foremost a liar and second to none in lost and confused person in her life. After paying a retainer in excess of her childish demands for representation, along with changing schedules for court hearings and then finding out she instead needed a “nose job” thus resulting in no preparation for proper representation during hearings. this woman needs to shunned and then invested by 1) IRS 2) Bar Stay away from this fugazzi lawyer
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16 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I paid a retainer to pursue child support, 10 months later nothing had happened. She did not return emails or calls. I fired her and handled the court preceding myself
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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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