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27 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Stuart exhibited in-depth knowledge of family law and the local legal scene. He was thorough and thoughtful in his brainstorming and recommendations. Stuart cut around the fluff quickly and and was able to get to the crux of the matter deftly. He does not back down easily and was staunch when the occasion called for it.
Stuart's professionalism in the form of timely and succinct communications, coupled with his personable approach put us at ease and made a difficult time slightly more manageable.
We would certainly work with Stuart again should the need arise.
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13 Jan, 2022 by Martin
Stuart and the team at FHR simply crushed it. I came to him with a complex case and he simply delivered --- truly exceeded my expectations. So impressed with his professionalism, analytical skills, follow-up, and legal approach. Without a doubt, will recommend him to anyone that is need of world-class legal counsel.
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29 Nov, 2020 by Pamela
It is so difficult to find a trustworthy attorney. After meeting with several different ones, we were blessed to find Stuart. We hired him for a case of termination of parental rights and adoption of minors. It is needless to say the case resulted in our favor. There are two important sides of Stuart professionalism, on one hand there is the preparation, since the first meeting we realize he had an ample knowledge of the law, however what was more astonishing and made the difference, is the exceptional preparation he makes at every step of the case. Stuart was never improvising, he had calculated every step, he was always ahead of the game. On the other hand, Stuart will talk to you with honesty and will explain every step of the process, you will find him always available to talk and resolve all of your questions. He is indeed a good honest person with excellent skills and high competence.
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08 Sep, 2022 by Sonia
Craig was my warrior in court! Having to deal with court is a scary situation to be in and not knowing what can/ will happen is worse. Craig was patient, answered all of my questions and was upfront and honest about my case - something I truly appreciated! He stayed the course and fought for my right to have my weapon back after it was confiscated by the police. I was never made to feel as though I was a burden, Craig treated with respect and decency. He returned kept me updated on my case either by a quick call or email. I’m proud to have had Craig represent me. He’s one tough attorney and someone you can trust!
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21 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
I want to start by saying Mr. Milazo is a great conversationalist. He was easy to speak with and encouraging when I felt rather distraught over my situation. However, Mr. Milazo was just that, "all talk." He charged for services never rendered and continued to drive my bill up until I finally dismiss him. I eventually hired another attorney that did a fantastic job.
Sadly, Mr. Milazo is, like most, a small fish in a large pond trying to make a name for himself. If he does not show you results early on in your case, move on to someone that can genuinely help you.
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08 Dec, 2020 by Mary
John is a great attorney. He gets the job done and gets you the best possible outcome. I would highly recommend him to my friends and family.
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11 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I was in a crisis and trying to get a restraining order against my boyfriend and he agreed to meet with me at the spur of the moment the same day, which was much appreciated. But first thing i noticed walking in was that he had his assistant and then one other girl just lingering around the door listening to everything i had to say about my very private and high profile case. I didnt appreciate extra ears being in the room doing nothing but wanting to hear all the details of my horrible situation for her own curiosity. I was very distraught and didnt have the mind to tell this chick to get lost.
Secondly, as i started to talk about obtaining palimony, this lawyer starts letting out sarcastic "ha's" and then saying, "i hate to break it to you but there is no law that will give you palimony." I already know this, but palimony IS recognized in the courts of california even though it is not a law there either. I was trying to ask him if it was recognized in court system here in TN, but he kept repetitively saying the same thing as though I was "missinformed." He obviously didn't understand what I was asking and kept on with his know-it-all, "youve been missinformed" and "somebodys been pullin your leg" attitude when he is completely ignorant to the way CA courts work. I was only asking if the system is the same in TN; I wasn't trying to have a debate about "the law."
Then, he starts urging me to go to a battered womens shelter where they will "help me." I was upset, i wasnt beat up so wtf? The only help i wanted was a preventative restraining order and turned out That since I didnt have a black eye, my story of past abuse wasnt really enough to warrent a restraining order.
I was insulted when he kept pushing the womens shelter pamphlet to me saying i should probably go there. For what? Thats not what i came to his office for. I have money, why would i go to a womems shelter and sleep on a cott when I can get a hotel room?
Anyways thats my opinion. The extra ears in the room was very unprofessional, not to mention that they all three stepped out of the doorway to proceed to loudly wisper as though i cant here what they are saying. Idiots. This is a private matter Milazo, extra ears should not be in the room. If you have something to say u say it in front of me. You dont take the details of my case and proceed to gossip in the doorway. I really feel like I should not have gone there and should have made them sign a privacy contract before telling them my case. All felt very elementary and gossipy... Which my case was very juicy i admit, but i wish i didnt tell these people anything.
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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.
