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4.8
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20 Jan, 2025 by Wensie
21 Dec, 2024 by Scott morgan
We hired John to take care of a Long Standing Dispute with a Nightmare Neighbor who was Making Our Lives Miserable then Trying To Sue Us to Get a CPSO As If They Were The Victims rather than us all along. John put in the Hard work & Rigorous hours both in Preparation Outside Court & Inside at Trial to Defend our Interests Vigorously & took nothing for Granted.
We Wouldnt Think Of Ever Hiring Anyone but John for any future Legal Issues, Cases or Claims.
"Best Attorney Experience Ever, Thanks, Again John!"
Sincerely
Scotty & Kitt Morgan
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17 Aug, 2024 by Carrie joyner
Best attorney around worth every dime .
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17 Dec, 2024 by Matthew hance
Chris has amazing communication and availability and was wonderful to work with! I'd use him again in a heartbeat.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Cole foster
John Saia communicates well and never left me uninformed. I always felt I understood what was happening through the process with him.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Caleb shovlin
Clay Lopez and Jon Saia were incredible attorneys that helped me along with the process for my case. They were always open to communicate when I had any questions and I got the results I was hoping for. Thanks again!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Matthew hance
Chris has amazing communication and availability and was wonderful to work with! I'd use him again in a heartbeat.
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15 Dec, 2024 by Cole foster
John Saia communicates well and never left me uninformed. I always felt I understood what was happening through the process with him.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Caleb shovlin
Clay Lopez and Jon Saia were incredible attorneys that helped me along with the process for my case. They were always open to communicate when I had any questions and I got the results I was hoping for. Thanks again!
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08 Feb, 2025 by Lincoln shepherd
Our attorney Madison did a great job of getting us the outcome we desired. Working with Becca made the entire process straightforward and seamless.
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07 Feb, 2025 by Charlie tillett
Bess and Kelsey were excellent in the handling of my matter. My case was resolved expediently and in my favor. I highly recommend Joslyn law firm for any criminal defense needs.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Theresa bowen
Working with Brian was the best choice we made. He and his team did a great job representing a case we had. With his help, it wouldn’t have gone more smoothly. I couldn’t imagine the headache of navigating the courts without his team’s skills and expertise, and we are so grateful for that! Thank you, Joslyn Law Firm, for being the best! We highly recommend you!!
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13 Jan, 2025 by Eric gibbs
Sally doesn’t mess around. She listens, learns, and applies subjectivity to defense of people who may have been wronged. I would highly recommend SRD to anyone in the area.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Pamela giles
They are so unprofessional they didn't even get a hold of my Witness. We had to track the Witness down ourselves. They closed our case before we found the witness. They're so unprofessional I wouldn't recommend them to nobody. Also, they never return calls. Don't waste your time with these attorneys. My daughter was also in the car. She had a different attorney and they are negotiating her pay right now as were speaking.
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21 Aug, 2024 by A dav
Sally was an absolutely amazing lawyer from start to finish. She was very knowledgeable, thorough and went to bat for me!! I came to her scared and unraveling about the case. Not one time did she make me feel as if I was a nuisance or overwhelming!! I appreciated her advocacy for me and her determination to make sure things worked out in fair just manner!! I would recommend her a million times over!! Her staff is just as great and welcoming. Just a great experience all around with Sally!!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Cinia rodriguez hernandez
Excelente abogado
Brega muy muy bien
Consigue buen dinero
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29 Oct, 2024 by Juan canales
Excelente abogado
Sin dude es El mejor
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09 Oct, 2024 by Shaun humphrey
Don't waste your time, you will be doing the lawyers job for them.
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20 Jan, 2025 by Beth and mike sheridan
A carrying and compassionate professional.
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14 Jan, 2025 by John lohrman
Very thorough and passionate regarding probate law. Highly recommend as a firm for Will & Estates.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Justin fox
These guys helped me through a very difficult estate.These service was great and made everything a lot less stressful even with the harships and roadblocks the league system threw at us.Would recommend them to anyone who asked me for a recommendation.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Lindsey self
16 Aug, 2024 by Jay
Doesn't matter how important your case or the timeline. You can wait two months for them to never contact you, despite contacting them multiple times, and lose your court case, or you can go elsewhere. There's nice reviews from years ago. Apparently they fell off.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Hook's towing & recovery llc
Kelly Morgan is a very rare Attorney. He is kind, patient, a great listener, easy to communicate with, responsive and solution oriented. I reached out to Attorney Morgan after a business deal had gone awry, in search of a legal expert that could help my company. In my mind, help meant, “let’s go to court.” Attorney Morgan, however, with his calm and level-headed demeanor, talked me off the ledge with a suggestion to meet with the opposing party because of the relationship he and I have. The result of which positioned my friend and I to finish our deal and remain friends. All thanks to Attorney Morgan. Thank you, Kelly!
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27 Nov, 2024 by Steven vincent
Jeff helped me and my fiancé with our K-1 visa. He was professional, attentive, and mindful of deadlines. He was always available for a call if we needed clarification. All in all, the process went smoothly because of Jeff and our visa was approved within one year.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Wendell
Mr. Pettys played a vital role in making me and my fiances dreams a reality. The thought of finding the woman I'd spend my life with on the other side of the world sounded far fetched but when it became something we knew was right and we both wanted, Mr. Pettys was the first and only lawyer I had to reach out to.
He made sure to keep an open line of communication with me, even responding on the weekends. He made the process effortless for us, telling us exactly what we needed and explaining the process. I was surprised to find, the day after receiving the confirmation that our packet was sent to the US Embassy in Manilla, he reached out to me to make sure we would be ready for the next steps.
I know it's not this fast for all, but just 7 months after sending our initial papers to the USCIS she was able to fly to America and now we're getting ready to be married, where he instructed me to notify him so he can assist us further in the final steps.
Thank you very much!
Wendell & Mae Ann
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20 Oct, 2024 by Josh lambert
This guy is HORRIBLE. I had him as a public defender and let me tell you, this "guy" is HORRIBLE. He didn't even go over my discovery. Told me I had NO chance at self defense. What made me fire him is is rude, arrogant attitude. He told me to tell him my side of the story and as I was telling him he interrupted me and told me " one more time you interrupt me we will have to reschedule this phone call ". I went and hired a REAL lawyer. Kick ricks Johnson.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Lindsey self
16 Aug, 2024 by Jay
Doesn't matter how important your case or the timeline. You can wait two months for them to never contact you, despite contacting them multiple times, and lose your court case, or you can go elsewhere. There's nice reviews from years ago. Apparently they fell off.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Hook's towing & recovery llc
Kelly Morgan is a very rare Attorney. He is kind, patient, a great listener, easy to communicate with, responsive and solution oriented. I reached out to Attorney Morgan after a business deal had gone awry, in search of a legal expert that could help my company. In my mind, help meant, “let’s go to court.” Attorney Morgan, however, with his calm and level-headed demeanor, talked me off the ledge with a suggestion to meet with the opposing party because of the relationship he and I have. The result of which positioned my friend and I to finish our deal and remain friends. All thanks to Attorney Morgan. Thank you, Kelly!
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31 Jan, 2025 by Michael adkins
Craig Tuttle and his team have done an exemplary job in this complex case. thank you for your help in understanding the process and in the final result.
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19 Jan, 2025 by Gokul niroula
I had a very disappointing experience with Yazdani Law, LLC, Columbus, OH. Despite paying for their services in full, they mishandled my case by submitting incorrect documentation, leading to delays and unnecessary stress during the visa process. To make matters worse, they demanded extra money beyond the agreed-upon contract amount, claiming it was for unforeseen circumstances—issues that should have been anticipated with proper diligence.
Their lack of accountability and professionalism was evident throughout. They acted as if they were providing a free service, despite the significant fees I paid. Instead of acknowledging their errors, they attempted to mask their mistakes by blaming and suppressing.
I do not recommend this lawyer or firm to anyone seeking reliable immigration assistance.
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19 Jan, 2025 by Monica jones
An Unstoppable Advocate – Kia Fights for Her Clients!
I cannot say enough great things about Kia and the incredible work she has done for me and my children. From the moment she took on my case, she was relentless in ensuring that every detail was handled with precision and care. Litigation is never easy, and when things took a turn for the worse, Kia stepped in and made sure that my paperwork was solid and in my favor.
What truly sets her apart is her resilience. She didn’t care she challenged the court she was going to keep approaching the bench until we got what we needed. The judge wasn’t trying to hear the matter, but that didn’t stop her. She went as far as to request a hearing just to make sure we didn’t leave that courthouse without a resolution. Her intelligence, persistence, and dedication were unmatched.
As a Black woman attorney, it would have been easy for her to let ego or frustration take over, to throw her hands up and walk away when the court was being rigid and unwilling to listen. But instead, she showed incredible fortitude, humility, integrity, and character. She stayed the course, refusing to give up, even when it was clear the process wasn’t designed to be flexible or creative. I know without a doubt that things could have gone so much worse if not for her determination.
Kia is not just a lawyer—she is an advocate, a fighter, and someone who truly cares. If you need an attorney who won’t back down and will stand up for you no matter what, she is the one you want in your corner. I am beyond grateful for her, and I highly recommend her to anyone in need of strong, compassionate legal representation.
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16 Mar, 2016 by Shane
Mr. Scott is one of the best lawyers by far not just in Columbus but anywhere. I've used Joe several times over my questionable career and he has always got be a far better deal then i deserve he will go above and beyond what any other lawyers will i have had many experiences with other lawyers before Joe and none of them has done Joe has done i highly recommend Mr. Scott if you are any kind of legal trouble.
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23 Feb, 2016 by Rico darks
Thanks to Scott & Nolder I was released from prison early on judicial release. I was serving a 16 year term and got out 5 years early. Joe Scott worked hard for me and used all available resources to get me out. I have nothing but good things to say about Joe Scott. He is a good man and works hard for his clients.
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09 Dec, 2015 by Tina
My son was charged with three (3) aggravated robberies and was looking at thirty-three (33) years in prison. We hired Mr. Scott to get the case resolved and were able to get him probation. I would highly recommend hiring Mr. Scott.
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16 Jun, 2017 by Annette
Joshua Hall successfully reduced my speeding ticket to no points which helped with my insurance rates not going up. I didn't have to go downtown and deal with the hassles of parking and traffic as well taking time off work. I highly recommend Joshua Hall.
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11 Jun, 2017 by Lauren
My husband and I were very pleased with our experience with Mr. Hall. Prompt, professional, and exceeded all expectations when dealing with our concerns.
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09 Oct, 2015 by Paige
Very professional! Handled everything that I needed done and helped to get my case closed. I would definitely recommend Josh to anyone needing assistance.
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01 Jan, 2025 by Bb pp
From day one, he was sharp, professional, and absolutely no-nonsense about getting the best possible outcome. He didn’t sugarcoat anything but somehow made the legal process feel less daunting. His stern demeanor in the courtroom was matched only by his personable nature outside of it, which made me feel like I was not just a client, but a priority.
If you’re looking for a family attorney who’s equal parts pit bull and people person, look no further than Attorney Hank Sonderman. He helped me win sole custody of my daughter, and I couldn’t be more grateful—or impressed. Thank you, again!
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28 Dec, 2024 by Wanda hudson
Attorney Hank provided exceptional representation for my son in his custody case. He understands the law and has a strong presence in the courtroom. He is very professional and knowledgeable and was genuinely committed to reaching a favorable outcome for my son. He was always available to answer questions and he fought for what was best for my granddaughter. We LOVE Hank Sonderman and HIGHLY recommend him.
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24 Dec, 2024 by Bailey mackey
13 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Jenna is one of the most caring and compassionate people I have ever met! I could tell she cared about my son's case and that she worked harder than anyone else would have. Even had the magistrate not rules in my son's favor I would still recommend her to anyone. More lawyers should be like this.
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18 Dec, 2024 by Seth risner
I hired Mr Sidoti for a divorce. I was very pleased. He was very responsive, experienced, helpful, supportive, and understanding. Would recommend.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Anthony vita
What an incredibly professional and kind group of people. I feel really lucky to have been introduced and if you’re ever looking for a rapid consultation to ease your mind, give these guys a call.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Domonique lore'n
Super helpful, knowledgeable, did not beat around the bush or waste my time. Took time out of their day to be available for me with my many questions and guided me through all of them. Would definitely recommend Panico Law Group.
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23 Jun, 2016 by Theodore p pennington
I first came to know Melissa Gast in August of 2013 when first confronted with the reality that I was getting divorced. Initially electing to represent myself, I found that I could handle everything coming at me just fine, and really benefitted from being a thorough, reasonable, logical, and analytical person. Then, my soon-to-be ex-wife made a series of adversarial decisions that resulted in false accusations, extensive private and police investigations, open-court lies, and everything one could imagine facing in a worst-case scenario. I selected 10 attorneys to interview within the Columbus area, each one of them highly referred by friends, family, and/or legal professionals. I found Melissa Gast on Avvo and she became #9 on my list - with #10 being a stalwart in the field. MY thoughts were that if none of the first nine made the cut, attorney #10 would have to be the one for me. Covering allot of ground in just two days of my search - I came to the conclusion that none of the first eight attorneys were well-suited for the job.
On the way to Ms. Gast's office, I was enveloped with a sense of foregone defeat, and I even dialed the number of attorney #10 on the way and told her I would be to her office in the next hour. I almost cancelled my appointment with Ms. Gast, but decided to see it through as she was the only attorney on the list that I had picked myself.
Meeting me at the door of her small office, Ms. Gast exuded confidence and compassion. I quickly realized that I did not like the used-car sales floor feel I felt meeting with each of the first eight attorneys. Ms. Gast warmly and efficiently moved through a series of inquiries to gain an appreciation for my situation, my life, my family, my personality, and my goals for this term of my life. Taking close and attentive notes on paper as we spoke, she not once lost track of our conversation and I never felt as though I was "just another client". After about 30-minutes of emotional dumping and factual offloading of information, Ms. Gast demonstrated one of her key strengths as she brilliantly recapped our conversation in perfect form and with emphasis in every correct place, demonstrating her ability to listen, think, feel, and work at the same moment.
Cutting to the chase - Ms. Gast stood at my side and represented me with heart, skill, and diligence throughout the entirety of what turned out to be a 33-month divorce and custody war fraught with a multitude of false allegations involving child abuse in what was termed to be a relentless string of allegations of the worst kind that was brightly capped with nearly 12 days of trial. I asked for one thing - for Ms. Gast to protect me and my relationship with my son. Ms. Gast delivered in EVERY regard with poise, and now that the dust has cleared, I find myself with full custody of my little boy (he was 2.5 yrs. old at the outset and 5.5 yrs. old now) and a bright and safe path ahead of us. Not once did I feel like a number or a case or a job. Rather, I was intimately involved and encouraged to participate and contribute to my own defense as Ms. Gast tailored her approach to meet my expectations and stomach for the war... cookie-cutter is not what this attorney offers her clients.
You can spend a great deal more by hiring a marquee name or an attorney with a scorched earth approach to your life if that sort of thing makes you feel good and you can still sleep at night. You can file all kinds and sorts of motions and replies and challenge every micro-nuance of every nuance and
even believe that mythical story about recouping the legal fees when it is all over via some type of award or judgment. But, if you want to preserve your assets and dignity while protecting your family - and especially if you value honesty, integrity, loyalty, compassion, diligence, truth, skill, professionalism, and legal acumen - skip the marquee names and the egos and schedule a consult with Ms. Gast as soon as possible.
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28 Mar, 2016 by G=craig
My 11 yo son was living with his mother in a mentally abusive environment; very unhealthy and dysfunctional. Melissa was able to not only win permanent sole custody for me after a three day trial (over a year after our motion), she recommended based on this situation to try for an immediate Emergency Custody Order. Although that almost never is granted, we won it thereby saving my son from over a year of incredible stress that would have surely occurred had he stayed with his mom while permanent custody and residence was decided. She is very thorough, knows the law well, thinks of the details that wind up making a difference, writes compelling arguments in her motions, know how to create a line of questioning that gets intended results in a succinct way, is quick in a trial situation to exploit opportunities with pointed questions and is very easy to work with. She came recommended to me from another prominent lawyer in a different field and she couldn't have done a better job. For my money, I wouldn't use anyone else.
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30 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Melissa Gast was hired into my child custody case with myself and husband. Him and I were still married but separated and seeing other people. I know that sounds strange but we were married two more years because of selling our home and etc and all he did was fight me in court. My ex took my son from my mother's one day while I was on a job interview he took my son to his then girlfriends home it took me forever to locate him I was devasted. He then moved again with his girlfriend and the address was given through the court system. He would say I was on drugs and I had to take a hair test and I passed it. He then had Melissa Gast appointed to the case through his attorney. Since she came in later hearing all the horrible stories she first ordered my son have supervised visits at my mother's house and he couldn't stay with me at my boyfriends. Then it went to unsupervised visits but my son would have to spend the night at my mom's during overnights then Melissa would call my mom and ask questions about how I was doing and random weird questions about my boyfriend. But it was OK for my son to stay with my ex and his then girlfriend at their second place of residence. She even told me i needed to stay at my moms with my son on the overnight visits and not have my mom watching him my attorney advised i did not have to stay there because this was causing alot of conflict with myself and my mother. Custody arrangements and days were changed multiple times through both our attorneys and Melissa Gast doing nothing but confuse my son. I finally got my own place in hilltop west side area thats all I could afford because my ex destroyed my credit. I could tell she didn't find it as appealing as where my ex lived in hilliard. My son told her he was afraid to live there because gang bangers and drug dealers lived there and over a window that was cracked. I had the whole house remodeled painted floor redone new furniture etc I was so upset because he just came out and said these things when I know he was told by his dad to say these things about my house because he doesn't even know what that stuff is. Over the course of time my ex and his girlfriend would deny my phone calls to my son lie about days and times of sporting events then make a mockery to other parents spreading lies about me when I would go to pratices. Then I actually was able to go to games when I got a schedule from another coach because my ex was the football couch. These people constantly harassed myself, my family, my employer, slandered me on social media. The girlfriend even showed up to my divorce and within a month they were married tells you how crazy this other woman really was. They made up lies about myself and boyfriend posting sexual ads on Craigslist to make us look like horrible people and we didn't. I ask Melissa Gast to show me the proof she never did. She upset my boyfriend in phone call interview by asking about the Craigslist post and ask about his sexual orientation and etc then when he told her she was out of line she apologize 3 times. After all said and done she granted him more custody school placement and etc. Then he would never follow the child custody agreement we had in place. At the divorce hearing my retainer was completed with Melissa and I was going to eventually owe her more money that my attorney was going to have my ex pay. I guess I had a bill but she never sent it to me and the judge at the divorce asked her have you been paid she responds yes so it was closed. Melissa Gast then emails me a 600 dollar balance I said what are you talking about I had paid her about 1300 dollars in about 6 months plus I was paying my attorney. She sent me the bill in an email 6 times in a row. I turned her into the bar association with no help from them. She thought my son was in the best interest if his dad. He now has moved to Florida with his wife for a new job he put in a request no judges signature and just moves! More court. Beware of this lawyer!
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04 May, 2023 by Doug burkheimer
26 Mar, 2023 by C s
Retained Mary in mid-2021 for a divorce (without children), easily the worst decision I made. Not only was she completely uncommunicative with me (we had scheduled a specific date to file, once that date came, I heard absolutely nothing from her), came to find out she completely ghosted my ex’s attorney and the attempts he made to reach out. I ended up having to retain other representation which created unnecessary delay. When I emailed Mary to tell her I would no longer be needing her services, she sent a bill with trumped up charges for emails and communications that never actually happened. She’s lucky I didn’t report any of professional misconduct to the board (despite my new attorney advising me to do so).
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26 Aug, 2021 by Kee holliday
05 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Do not get her she's horrible she portrays herself as something that she's not
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06 Dec, 2019 by Betsy
My case was unique in Ohio. As a WA state grandma I was seeking visitation for my granddaughter. I chose Virginia through the internet. Always Virginia was very professional and very thorough. She mostly answered the phone herself and kept me on track; she was always available and sometimes with the three hour difference in time it was difficult for both of us. If she couldn't reach me then she would email promptly. I ended up stepping down from the case; knowing that we would most likely win; however the situation itself became a no-win situation. As in the beginning so was the ending, an honest, forthright attorney. I was never sorry that I chose Virginia to guide me through this journey. Thank you.
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29 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Worst experience I have ever had with an attorney. I wish others had warned me. Was just trying to get child support and settled because I couldn't deal with her anymore.
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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.
