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20 Aug, 2024 by Sara
I picked Alex and Lizz after interviewing 7 attorneys and their offices total. Yes, I did free and paid consultations for 7 different attorneys over the course of months before choosing H&K. My case is about relocating with kids after a divorce. Most attorneys gave me the same advice on how to start my case, but Alex gave me different advice on how to start that would please the court system. It sat well with me. I took his advice and hired the firm. I also could see the experience and fearlessness in Alex when my fiance and I met with him over zoom for a paid consult. Simply put, we liked the vibe and felt we'd have strong representation.
Little did I know I'd never see Alex again and all of my case would be handled by Lizz. Lizz told me from the beginning she has a very good memory, and she does. She picks up things from casual conversation and uses it later to your advantage. She remembers everything I tell her. She's got a lot of experience and she's very smart, she could tell how I was feeling and would push me along when I needed it or let me chill out when I needed that too. Again, my case was a relocation case and custody was at stake. I had paralyzing and crippling anxiety. Lizz not only handled my case really well, she handled me really well. If I had to ask her, I'm not sure if she'd say the case was harder or if I was!
Long story short, I dragged my case a little longer than I needed to (due to anxiety) but it still was resolved quickly. And it could have been resolved even faster.
Things I'll never forget about Lizz:
* She's incredibly sharp. Like incredibly sharp. Like, my fiance and I work in fields where there are highly-educated people doing some powerful things, but Lizz's sharpness to us was extraordinarily unique. She's smart, she's intuitive, she's clever, she's fast, she's detail-oriented, and she's strong!
* During my representation in front of the judge, some things were not going in my favor. I literally could see Lizz switching gears to begin fighting harder for me and protecting me. Which she did, successfully. But I literally saw it. In her tone of voice, in her body language, in the shift in how she sat in the chair. From the beginning of our meetings, Lizz never treated my case like another file #. She has passion and she cares.
In the end, Lizz won my case for me!!!
I hope when my case is completely closed that I never have to use family law attorneys again. But if I did, I won't even think about anyone else except Lizz. She's the real MVP.
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21 Jun, 2014 by Margaret
I was introduced to Elizabeth Kuhn 2 years ago. She came highly recommended from other attorneys in her field. I was served with custody papers and at the time had no idea what this meant for me. Lizz directed me patiently step by step through what I could expect. I felt that her fees were reasonableand her knowledge was vast. During this process Lizz and her paralegal team made sure that I was handling the process well. If I had any questions they were very prompt with returning my emails and phone calls. Lizz gives a very realistic point of view to a very emotional process. She thinks clearly and gives accurate and appropriate directions, which provided me a level of sanity to cope with this process. She was able to argue my case adequately and resolve any major issues without my case having to go to court. I have and will continue to recommend Elizabeth Kuhn to all of my family and friends. I am confident in her abilities as an attorney and am forever grateful for the role she played in helping me get my life back on track.
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17 Jun, 2014 by Jenna
Elizabeth Kuhn vigorously represented me during a child support matter against my ex. She always took the time to answer my questions and always made me feel like I was an important client, even though my case was a simple matter. She was knowledgable and professional and I was very comfortable withher as my legal representative. Her entire staff was amazing and always so helpful and quick to respond to any questions I had. I was fully informed of the process and what to expect so nothing came as a surprise. I had full and complete confidence in Ms. Kuhn and her firm and I definitely know who to call in case I'm in need of legal assistance in the future.
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08 Jan, 2025 by Jennifer houston
We love working with Hartman! Every closing is handled with professionalism and care. Mary is especially amazing and I cannot fully express my appreciation for how helpful and knowledgeable she is. She's the best!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Patti bachtel
Rezide Properties has been closing all of their new homes with Hartman Law for YEARS! The staff is absolutely incredible!!! Mary McCleskey (closer) communicates so well...I just love and appreciate her and all of the team!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Regina samuel
I cannot say enough great things about Hartman Law and their team! As a real estate professional, having a reliable and efficient closing attorney is essential, and Hartman Law consistently exceeds expectations.
Mary McCleskey is an absolute gem and my go-to closer at the firm. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and approachable demeanor make every transaction smooth and stress-free. She’s always quick to respond, incredibly knowledgeable, and willing to go the extra mile to ensure that all parties are comfortable and well-informed throughout the process.
Every closing I’ve had with Hartman Law has been seamless, and my clients always walk away happy and impressed. The team genuinely cares about creating a positive experience for everyone involved, going above and beyond to handle even the most complex situations with ease.
If you’re looking for a top-notch closing attorney who will make your real estate transactions a breeze, I highly recommend Hartman Law—and be sure to ask for Mary McCleskey!
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08 Jan, 2025 by Jennifer houston
We love working with Hartman! Every closing is handled with professionalism and care. Mary is especially amazing and I cannot fully express my appreciation for how helpful and knowledgeable she is. She's the best!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Patti bachtel
Rezide Properties has been closing all of their new homes with Hartman Law for YEARS! The staff is absolutely incredible!!! Mary McCleskey (closer) communicates so well...I just love and appreciate her and all of the team!
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07 Jan, 2025 by Regina samuel
I cannot say enough great things about Hartman Law and their team! As a real estate professional, having a reliable and efficient closing attorney is essential, and Hartman Law consistently exceeds expectations.
Mary McCleskey is an absolute gem and my go-to closer at the firm. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and approachable demeanor make every transaction smooth and stress-free. She’s always quick to respond, incredibly knowledgeable, and willing to go the extra mile to ensure that all parties are comfortable and well-informed throughout the process.
Every closing I’ve had with Hartman Law has been seamless, and my clients always walk away happy and impressed. The team genuinely cares about creating a positive experience for everyone involved, going above and beyond to handle even the most complex situations with ease.
If you’re looking for a top-notch closing attorney who will make your real estate transactions a breeze, I highly recommend Hartman Law—and be sure to ask for Mary McCleskey!
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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.
