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24 Dec, 2024 by Andrew off
So, I normally do not write reviews, especially for deeply personal services such as they provide, however my experience with these people was so poor I felt it particularly important to share.
If you are interested in the details I will provide them below, but I want to sum it up first as most of us do not read entire reviews. I hired these people on Monday Dec 16thand fired them 7 days later. There were two reasons: 1) Communication was worse than poor and 2) the assigned lawyer put more effort into arguing with me than he did in preparing the document I instructed him to write. They were given a chance to correct both mistakes and instead gave me a full refund of the retainer without even so much as an apology. I was left completely stunned by their utter lack of commitment, conviction, and even basic knowledge of the law. This man, and this firm should be completely embarrassed by this.
The full story:
I conducted interviews with multiple firms, this company was my second choice. I was clear during my interviews exactly what the situation was, what my expectations were and what my goals were. Every firm I spoke with all said the same thing “absolutely no problem “. I was told on on Wednesday the 11th during the interview with this firm that lawyer a would be a good fit. I paid the retainer on the following Monday and was immediately told that lawyer a was no longer available. I was assigned to lawyer b, who I immediately made an appointment with. This was Monday afternoon.
On Tuesday Mr. B called me 1.25 hours early, where we had (what I thought to be) a productive conversation. He said he would pull what he needed from public records and get back to me with the documents as well as a “strategy” within a couple of days.
At nearly 4:30 on Friday afternoon (after I complained that he had not reached out) Mr. B sent me an email where he lectured me about positioning, then he stated he was not able to pull the document he needed. In my response email I pointed out what he was arguing was not even relevant to the situation, then I asked him why he waited to ask for the document. I also pointed out that not only does the law entitles me to exactly what I’m asking for, but every lawyer I asked including his boss disagrees with his opinion of the situation. I gave Mr. B 4 hours to do what he was hired to do, with a deadline of noon on Monday the 23rd. I also called his boss and leaving a voicemail requesting to speak with her Monday morning.
Monday Dec 23 at 2 pm I called the boss, got voicemail again and told her it might be time to start talking about a refund. I then sent Mr. B, the boss and the paralegal an email saying time was up and I had seen no effort at all. I asked why I shouldn’t fire him.
I never received any response from Mr. B, his paralegal or the boss. I did however get an email from someone to process the refund less then one hour after the email sent to Mr. B. Had the money back before the end of the day on Monday.
Please do not hire these people. Mr. B was the second choice of my second choice, and I’m so thankful he showed me his incompetence before he even reached out to opposing counsel. The utter stupidity and incompetence was overwhelming to say the least. I feel so sorry for anyone who is foolish enough to hire them. The only good thing is they didn’t charge me for the 30 minute phone call or that poorly thought-out email, most likely in hopes that I wouldn’t share my story
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15 Nov, 2024 by Ryan mchugh
I used them for a family matter and things went just fine, then we wanted to utilize their services for estate planning. We met with our attorney, she ended up leaving and we were never notified. She billed our retainer for thousands prior to leaving and not only we were never notified they just sent emails requesting to replenish our retainer. Six months later someone finally calls and I explain the situation and simply ask to be made whole so we can continue the work that never started. They refused, for 4 months I was passed around between paralegals until finally requesting a refund of the remaining retainer. No invoices were provided, no work and nothing to show for the money spent. I have 4 attorney offices in retainer for other needs and never have I had such a bad experience. Find a boutique firm with a reputable track record.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Karina english-huerta
I hired Attorney Matt Patton in July of 2023 to help me with my divorce. From the very first moment I met Matt, he was not only professional and knowledgeable, but he made me feel supported, empowered, understood, and at ease. What should have taken a few months to process took over a year because of things outside both of our control. Matt was there for me every step of the way and felt my frustrations as his own. He did everything in his power to get this handled for me quickly and efficiently.
Throughout, Matt was communicative, kind, and represented me with integrity and grit. One of the more notable parts of Matt’s representation of me was whenever we had mediations or hearings in front of the Court, he stood up for me in ways that I have never been able to do for myself. To have a lawyer like that in my corner meant more to me than words can describe. I can honestly say that I would not have been able to make it through this process without him.
Matt was able to get me everything I asked for and more. For the high level of representation I received, and for the care he gave to me and my case from the beginning to the end (especially in such an emotionally charged and delicate situation), Matt was worth every penny I spent to hire him as my lawyer. I could not give him a higher recommendation.
Thank you, Matt, from the bottom of my heart, and thank you to your amazing Paralegal, Amanda, for making this process as least painful and as smooth as possible given the circumstances. You guys are truly the best!
-Karina
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19 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
At the beginning of the divorce case there was minimum contact. When a deadline near there was more communication but was last minute. Once it came time for mediation the charges really increased and it felt as the information gathered in the 9 months prior was not retained. In the end I would have probably saved money by representing my self because the permanent orders we 99% my exes request.
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18 Jun, 2024 by Dean christian
There is no better firm, skilled attorneys, or group of professionals to trust when you find yourself in crises. We are specifically talking about Nathan Osborn (Attorney), Alyson Evett (Attorney), and their team (Bonnie Hakes Finance Coordinator), Connie Streich (Paralegal), Amanda Bielak (Assistant) at Montgomery Little & Soran, PC. From day one we felt protected, on the absolute worst days we felt unconditionally supported, and until the very successful end we were completely satisfied. When you find yourself in need, and you need someone to help you, call Nathan and his firm, it will change everything. It did for us!
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21 May, 2024 by Ray
Alexandra did the job she said that she would do. She went at the case as if I was the only client she had. This attorney was well worth the fees associated with the case.
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25 Sep, 2024 by John k
I had a client that refused to pay for services rendered. I retained services from Allen Vellone Wolf Helfrich and worked largely with Vandana Koelsch. I was from out of state so I depended on her for the heavy lifting. At the end of the day, it was a successful outcome and appreciate their professionalism.
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27 Aug, 2024 by James campbell, jr
My experience with Allen Vellone Wolf Helfrich & Factor has been beyond great. They dug into the issues of my case and discovered things in my favor that go far beyond what other defendants in the same case appear to have missed or not seriously considered. My opinions of Jim Helfrich and Kate Sender go beyond my ability to express. The best I can say is that I trust them to do their absolute best, which I believe they have done. No bullshit.
They haven’t always told me what I want to hear, but they have always considered my opinion and that has been reflected in the things they have produced on my behalf. My case is not over, but they believe in me and have taken my side with the best they have to offer. Their rates are fair, and I have never had the feeling they were fabricating hours as so many law firms do, especially the law firm that is attacking me. I suspect I will have more to add to this review in the future.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Ande b. sejna
Shady business. Deletes & hides negative reviews of their deceptive lawyers.
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26 Sep, 2021 by Chelsea
Mike was an attorney of my friends on a homicide case and he did an excellent job and I obtained him for my drug case was pleased with his weapon representation he's a good hard-working attorney that does his best for his clients and I would recommend him to anybody that needs a good way
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14 Sep, 2018 by Carlos
Mike is an awsome criminal lawyer he helped me with my 3rd DV out of jefferson county this year helped me keep my kids and my probation revocation out of Denver i highly recommend him.... as a pass convict no one believed me when it came down to push and shove with the Da he handled it the way it should have been
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09 Sep, 2018 by Craig
Michael Root failed to provide me with adequate representation in a Retaliation Against a Judge case. The witness (alleged victim Judge) had provably lied on the witness stand, and Mr. Root, more concerned about preserving his career than seeking justice, threw me under the bus: the official Court transcript vs. the actual evidence on the record of the Court proves this. Not recommended.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Lionzo hernandez
09 Nov, 2023 by Areli meza flores
Attorney Andres responded to all my questions/concerns in a timely manner and was very upfront/honest throughout the entire process. He also charges a flat fee so you know exactly how much it will cost. I highly recommend.
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04 Nov, 2023 by Susan
Andres helped us with criminal cases in multiple counties. He walked us through the judicial process while gathering facts and building the best possible outcome.
Andres brings extensive knowledge, patience and compassion when working with his clients. Andres was a bright spot in the very dark period. He has represented us well, and we greatly respect his professionalism and his personal commitment to these cases.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Kenneth martin
Steven Richard Louth has received positive reviews for his work in criminal defense. Clients have praised him for his professionalism, responsiveness, and ability to achieve favorable outcomes.
As a previous client (Kenneth Martin) I will mention that he is not afraid to go to trial and has a strong track record of winning cases.
Steven 's empathy and willingness to listen, even when some cases did not fall within his area of expertise are impeccable. - Sincerely Mr. Martin.
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27 May, 2022 by Erykha
almost every lawyer i know always wants you to take a deal because they are scared of going to trial Louth will not because he knows what he is doing and gets results from all the experience he has adquired over the years last 12 jury trials won works for me look no further when in need of a criminal defense lawyer.
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30 Mar, 2022 by Carolyn
I hired Steve because my case was complicated. I needed someone to do research on how is it a cop shows me a photo of the bumper of my car in contact with a beat up hyundai. I knew 100% that there was no way I did this. The charge: 12 pts. I hired Steve because he said he would visit the scene of the crime, so he could see the subsidized housing complex, the other cars in the street, a visual of the renters, and a good history of the car accidents on that road. He didnt make it over, he decides from the 911 call that the caller whom he'd never met was right and I was wrong . I felt trapped with an attorney who I had given 3000$ and he had promised one thing and did the other. In court he bargained down to 2 points telling me "This is a win". I couldn't believe it. I told him of a situation 2 yrs prior of being blamed for something, and was told I had to plead guilty. He said, "...and you don't want to do that again. ". Steve had left no time for us to converse recent events and driving history to give him a bigger picture. So I went from having a good driving history with an excellent insurance to having no insurance to drive anymore. I work in health care and a masters degree. I'm very aware, vigilant, and honest. I tried to pick an attorney who is similar. This didnt happen.
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19 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
This man is a liar liar liar! He has harmed my family greatly. He is not my attorney. Never was my attorney. He was hired as a parenting coordinator. He has made many false statements. I'm sure he is a good lawyer because he is such a good liar.
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07 Jun, 2015 by Ryan
David is highly knowledgeable and extremely effective. He prepared extensively for my case, not trying to "wing it," and the difference was clear. He has a long history as a prosecutor so he knows seemingly judge, mediator, arbitrator and investigator in Denver. If parenting time is at stake, there is not a better attorney to have by your side than David.
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04 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
David Lamb is an excellent lawyer. His passion and determination are evident. He is thoughtful organized and knows the law. He will fight for children to be safe and placed properly. He will work late to get it done! Bottom line he wont let you down.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Vivian
Andres did nothing in the case of my son. He took over the case from Ashely Whitham, who was doing a terrible job and Andres continued on with it. He scared my son so bad that he took a plea deal that he never should have taken just so Andres did not have to work to help my son with his case. Do not use Andres if you want to be treated fairly and have a positive outcome to your case. Do not use Andres if you do not have the money to pay him because money is his main motivation, if you do not have any, you lose. Do not use if you expect him not to work with the prosecuting attorney to throw the book at you. Does not keep your best interests to heart will only use you to further his career. Do not use unless you want to lose your case.
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13 Oct, 2015 by Randy
I was a client of Andres Guevara & I would like to take this opportunity to say what an outstanding job he did for me on my drug case. This was a very stressful time for me & my family & Andres guided us through the entire process, displaying nothing but great expertise, professionalism & support. Pricilla, his paralegal, is also a wonderful asset to the practice! I highly recommend this law firm!
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15 Feb, 2013 by Russell
This man is the best! He not only got me a win, but he always kept me informed, he was easy to talk to has a great sense of humor and is very knowledgeable! He is very professional and very well spoken in court, but he also has a real person feel to him. I trusted this man as he trusted me we went into my case as a team which made me feel confident and we accomplished what we both wanted. I would recommend him to anybody looking for a experienced lawyer. Andres I thank you for all you did for me and so does my family!
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29 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Jolein has been suspended by the Colorado bar. Please be careful hiring this firm. A simple google search will pull up the opinion.
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24 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
This firm is only interested in your up front retainer. They also have a client relations "person" and I use that term lightly who gives psychiatric counseling and she has no credentials. Her name is Dianne Sawkins and she's criminal who should be in prison. File a complaint to the CO Regulatory Board about this law office. They should be closed down and disbarred.
https://www.coloradosupremecourt.com/Complaints/File_ComplaintAgainstAtty.asp
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20 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I came from an abusive relationship- she did not address this. Perpetrator aggressively continued to attack - she nor any of her associates did anything.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Teresa
We hired her to take over a two year old case that seemed to be hopeless from what we were being told. In just a few months she has completely turned things around. It's nowhere near over yet but I can promise you if the outcome is not a win it will not be from lack of work and dedication on her part. She went straight to work and has not let up.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I don’t know which is more BS, her abusive ways of dealing with cases or the nonsense life coaching she goes on about. The woman is borderline a con and shouldn’t be practicing law.
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01 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
This woman is beyond irresponsible
Should be disbarred
Hire her at your own risk
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22 Sep, 2023 by Susy
She is my ex's second attorney. She came in after the CFI's work is done. Through the recent Financial Statement she made for my ex. I can tell she is far away from professional by ignoring all the facts that have presented by my ex and his 1st attorney.
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09 May, 2023 by Ann
Best attorney I have had!! She listened and went after what was best for me and my kids! She's a kick-butt attorney!!
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15 Oct, 2024 by Jarrod helmick
Best Lawyer in Pueblo
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11 Aug, 2022 by Jonathan wahl
A few years back they represented a family member of mine in a fairly serious felony matter. Michael handled the case promptly, kept them out of jail and was able to get them a differed disposition that kept the matter of their record. I’d highly recommend calling him for any legal issues that might arise.
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25 May, 2022 by Sheila brooks-downs
28 Dec, 2022 by Allison shillingford
19 Nov, 2021 by Stacy clark
Their phone receptionist is rude.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
If I could give no stars I would. He’s a fraud and scams elders! Waste of time and money. Steers you in the wrong direction but happily takes your money!
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16 Nov, 2022 by Pitrone
Rickey has done magnificent work for myself, family and friends over the last 25 years. In this age when honesty and integrity aren’t the norm Rickey has these qualities in abundance!!!
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26 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
If I could give a 0 rating I would this man should have retired 10 years ago all he does is talk to you like you're a friend and he gives you advice but never actually helps you with your court case. He sat in on a mediation with me and talked to my sister the entire time about her living in New York and then turned around and tried to charge me thousands of dollars for it. I ended up having to complete my entire case alone with the courts. He should be disbarred if you ask me and he should give his services away for free.
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07 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Had a consult at K&G with Jennifer. She was straight forward, nice, seemed understanding, and answered all my questions quickly. I was concerned that she was very young and had just recently graduated law school. As my case would likely be quite entailed, I simply didn't feel comfortable with someone so new representing me. My other concern was the office environment. I was greeted in the lobby by two dogs. One was massive. I want to say it was a Great Dane. The receptionist was no where to be found but I did hear laughter and people joking in one of the offices. When the receptionist did appear, I was a little taken back that jeans and a shirt were appropriate office attire. Jennifer was dressed similarly and had several visible tattoos. Again she was nice but had a less than professional appearance. While I understand this is a very small firm with only two full time attorneys, I simply didn't feel comfortable paying a couple hundred an hour for their services.
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18 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
she is terrible at her job and has no patience, she is very bitchy and contradicts everything that she says, and is very inconsistent
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19 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired Eric to represent me in a federal case due to non payment 6 figures I was dissatisfied with his appearance/professional manner in the courtroom first thing judge asked him was about TIM MASTERS case in not such a nice way right then I knew I hired the wrong person research the case/upon loseof case he turned to me and said you win some and lose some.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Do for You
A domestic violence lawyer provides legal assistance to individuals involved in cases of domestic abuse, whether you are a victim seeking protection or someone accused of domestic violence defending against the charges. These lawyers help with obtaining restraining orders (protective orders), representing clients in criminal court, and handling related family law issues such as child custody, divorce, and visitation rights.
If you are dealing with domestic violence, a lawyer can help protect your rights and navigate the legal system to ensure your safety or defend you if you’re falsely accused.
When Should I Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a domestic violence lawyer if you are:
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A Victim of Domestic Violence:
- Filing for a protective order (restraining order): If you need immediate protection from an abuser, a lawyer can help you file for a protective order, which legally requires the abuser to stay away from you and refrain from contacting you.
- Divorce or separation due to abuse: If domestic violence is a factor in your relationship, a lawyer can help you pursue a divorce or legal separation and ensure that you are protected throughout the process.
- Child custody and visitation issues: A lawyer can help you secure custody of your children and limit or restrict the abuser’s visitation rights to protect the safety of your children.
- Filing criminal charges: If you are pursuing criminal charges against the abuser, a domestic violence lawyer can work with law enforcement and prosecutors to ensure the case is handled properly.
- Assistance with safety planning: A lawyer can advise on the legal steps to create a safety plan, including securing temporary housing, and taking steps to protect you and your family.
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Accused of Domestic Violence:
- Defending against criminal charges: If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, a lawyer can defend your case, challenge the evidence, and represent you in court. If possible, the lawyer can help get charges reduced or dismissed.
- Challenging a restraining order: If someone has obtained a protective order against you, a lawyer can help you contest the order to prevent it from negatively impacting your life, including your employment and child custody rights.
- Dealing with family law issues: Domestic violence allegations can affect child custody, divorce, and property division. A lawyer can represent your interests in family court and ensure that your parental rights are protected.
- Avoiding criminal record implications: A lawyer can work to minimize the impact of the allegations on your record, which can affect your employment, housing, and future legal matters.
Hiring a lawyer at the earliest stages can help ensure your rights are protected and the case is handled effectively, whether you are seeking protection or defending against accusations.
What Does a Domestic Violence Lawyer Do?
A domestic violence lawyer provides various legal services depending on the specifics of your case. These responsibilities often include:
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For Victims:
- Filing for protective orders: A lawyer can help victims of domestic violence obtain temporary or permanent restraining orders, which provide legal protection by restricting the abuser’s access to you and your children.
- Representing you in divorce and child custody matters: Domestic violence often leads to divorce or separation, and a lawyer can represent you in family court to protect your assets, secure custody of your children, and arrange spousal and child support.
- Criminal representation: Lawyers work with law enforcement and prosecutors to pursue criminal charges against the abuser, ensuring that you are informed and supported throughout the legal process.
- Safety planning and legal advice: Lawyers provide advice on how to stay safe legally and can assist in securing temporary housing, providing guidance on how to leave abusive situations safely.
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For the Accused:
- Defending against charges: A lawyer will build a defense by investigating the case, gathering evidence, and challenging the claims made against you. If necessary, the lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties.
- Challenging protective orders: If a restraining order has been placed against you, a lawyer can contest the order and present evidence to defend against it, aiming to minimize its impact on your life and reputation.
- Handling related family law issues: Lawyers help defend against domestic violence allegations in divorce, child custody, and visitation disputes, working to protect your parental rights and reputation.
- Preventing long-term consequences: A lawyer will work to protect you from the long-term consequences of a domestic violence conviction, such as a criminal record that could affect employment, housing, and more.
How Are Domestic Violence Lawyers Paid?
Domestic violence lawyers generally charge for their services in different ways depending on the case's complexity and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many domestic violence lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. Hourly rates are common for both criminal defense and family law matters.
- Flat fee: For specific tasks, such as filing a restraining order or defending against a straightforward domestic violence charge, some lawyers offer a flat fee that covers all legal work related to that service.
- Retainer: In complex cases, such as those involving criminal charges, divorce, and custody disputes, a lawyer may require a retainer fee, which is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
- Pro bono or reduced fees: Some domestic violence lawyers provide pro bono (free) or reduced-fee services to victims of domestic abuse who cannot afford legal representation.
It’s important to discuss fees during your consultation to ensure you understand how much your case will cost and what payment options may be available.
How Much Does a Domestic Violence Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a domestic violence lawyer depends on the complexity of your case, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of legal work required. General cost estimates include:
- Restraining orders: The legal fees for filing a protective or restraining order typically range from $500 to $2,500, depending on whether the case requires a hearing.
- Criminal defense: If you’re defending against domestic violence charges, legal fees may range from $2,500 to $15,000 or more, depending on whether the case goes to trial and the severity of the charges.
- Family law issues: Legal fees for divorce, child custody, and other family law issues related to domestic violence can range from $3,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
- Hourly rates: Domestic violence lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for their services, with more experienced lawyers charging higher rates.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to understand the total cost of legal services.
Top Questions to Ask a Domestic Violence Lawyer
Before hiring a domestic violence lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the right experience and approach for your case. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with domestic violence cases?
Ensure that the lawyer has handled domestic violence cases similar to yours, whether you’re a victim or the accused. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, flat fees, or a retainer, and ask for a detailed cost estimate. -
What is the likely outcome of my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Domestic violence cases vary in length, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what might cause delays. -
Will I need to appear in court?
Ask if your participation in court is required, and how the lawyer plans to represent you during hearings or trials. -
What steps should I take to protect myself or my rights?
Whether you’re a victim seeking protection or defending against allegations, ask the lawyer how they will help you navigate the situation.
How to Check the Credibility of a Domestic Violence Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable domestic violence lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for domestic violence experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in domestic violence cases and have successfully handled cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients say about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have been involved in domestic violence cases.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for certifications or memberships in family law or domestic violence advocacy groups, such as the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a domestic violence lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
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For Victims:
- Details of the abuse: Prepare a detailed account of the abuse, including dates, locations, and descriptions of any injuries or threats.
- Police reports and medical records: Bring copies of any police reports, medical records, or photographs that document the abuse.
- Legal filings: If you have already filed for a restraining order or been involved in any legal proceedings, bring copies of those documents.
- Questions about your safety and legal options: Be ready to ask about the best steps to protect yourself and your family, as well as what legal actions you should pursue.
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For the Accused:
- Details of the allegations: Prepare a detailed account of the incident or allegations against you, including any evidence or witnesses that support your defense.
- Legal documents: Bring any legal documents you have received, such as a restraining order, criminal charges, or child custody filings.
- Questions about your defense: Prepare questions about the legal process, possible penalties, and how the lawyer plans to defend your case.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation and provide the best possible legal advice.
