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17 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Best attorney i have ever seen much different from most. He tells it how it is wont tell you what you want to hear to get your money like most. I first saw him at work when he took a close friend of mines cases he was up a creek with out a paddle so to speak with a long record of drug gun and violence charges to come with it. but this time he didn't really do he was just in the right place at the wrong time. for a prole person that was all it takes now he was facing 38 years. Kunal worked day and night on his cases trying to get all the witness to show up he made late night phone calls went to peoples homes to take witness statements he worked weekends and i could tell in his voice this wasn't just a job for him. In the end my friend took a deal that got him 2 years. much less then the 38 they wanted the cases took 18 months and he was given time surved.
After seeing how hard he worked i sent my brother inlaw to him. he had a baby on the way and was facing 2 felony duis assault on a peace officer and many other stupid little charges his bond was set at 30,000 . that was way to much for his family to pay. Kunal out of the kindness of his heart took their cases and worked with them on the fees. He had him out and only getting 2 years probachion in less then a month. now thats what i call hard work. he dont mess around he gets stuff done it wasn't a easy case dude to his long record. however he makes it look easy.
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17 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Works hard and gets stuff done. Not trying to kiss *ss tells it how it is and gets results if you don't have years to wait then this is who you need.
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03 Dec, 2012 by Kandice
I would not recommend this lawyer if you want to be sworn at, put down, and not contacted when things need to be taken care of. He did not give me any paperwork involving the case. The only document he ever gave me was a little receipt that looked like an apartment rent receipt. The points that I really wanted to be brought up were pushed to the side. I was very disappointed with his work on my fiances case and I would NEVER recommend him to anyone.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired this Attorney, after she was paid the end! I couldn’t get her to talk to me or my son whom I hired her for and never returned calls and just basically done nothing we asked of her!
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25 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
This was by far the worst experience i have ever had dealing with an attorney. Initially everything was going well, as the case progressed everything started going wrong. I was usable to get a hold of Amanda, every time i called the office i was told she was busy and asked to leave a message. I would get an email response a week late. After waiting 3+ months of my time and delaying the case i got an email for the court that she was requested to remove herself form the case with no explanation. Never received an final invoice and all attempts to contact her were ignored.
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18 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Took a lot of stress off, friendly, professional, the process was fast, thankyou !
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13 Feb, 2024 by Jordan
I recently hired David for a custody case that I'm currently going through. All I can say is "WOW". Beyond Davids knowledge on custody laws, he is very aggressive and tactical. I hired David for a time sensitive matter, and he got us a court date just days later. I'm extremely happy with the work he is doing! 10/10 recommend!
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24 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
He will drop you in a second and does not represent you appropriately or in good faith. I have personally witnessed the entire proceeding with a person any normal attorney (Basic not even good - would definitely do for a single mom and a husband who doesn’t want to support the child. Beyond incompetent and will drain off a retainer and give bad advice not follow through and essentially cause nothing but damage.)
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26 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
David was negligent in my military divorce case. He failed to progress the matter, after over a year of him and his firm, no progress was made. He sent things to the other party without notifying or consulting me yet was unresponsive for months to my calls and emails.
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12 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Month after month passed, and each time I met with him he would scribble on his notepad but not offer me legal advice. I felt like I was paying for a very expensive scribe rather than a divorce attorney. He did not show any compassion or consideration for my case, and at times I felt he was working on my wife's behalf with his advice. I had to fire him and seek another attorney which was like night and day.
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20 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
I was very happy with Blake & Allen, P.C. They not only showed professionalism but made me feel "at ease" when discussing my legal matter. I found my needs to be handled appropriately. If and when I need a law firm again, Blake & Allen would be my choice. Thank you for everything.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Richard
I can't understand why you are representing a business that has for 14 months has the majority of its apartments with no heat and no air conditioning as well as no hot running water.
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09 Dec, 2021 by Mike
Saved my son from a very bad traffic violation on his driving record. Worked with judge and attorney on an agreement that was fair to him. He was given second chance through a variety of options like probation, drivers education and community service hours. He is a good driver now and system worked as intended.
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21 Jul, 2021 by Thomas
I hired Dawn for a case. I paid her in full and was not satisfied with the representation in any way.
I felt very taken advantage of and my family and children suffered. Time and money lost that I can never get back.
Beware.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Courtney irons
My husband and I retained Marie for a Family Law issue. She was our saving grace throughout the whole process. She did everything she told us she would do. She was very responsive and informative throughout our whole process. We couldn’t have asked for someone better to have on our side. 100/10 recommend!
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10 Jun, 2024 by Samantha s
We did a consultation with Marie and paid her. Everything was going good, so we thought. We didn't hear from her for months. I called her office several times and was always told "she's working on it". Months and months went by and we heard nothing from her. We are also a military family and made us to be in the wrong when she clearly doesn't know how military law works or any leading details. She even told us about a time when another military member came to her and she basically said yeah your not winning this and push him/her out of her office. Right there should have been a BIG red flag. I was even recommend to go to her from another attorney in town. I would NOT use her for anything! Horrible practice!!
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28 Aug, 2022 by Master of everything
I give him a very negative. my wife died by Good Samaritans Hospitals hands in mt.vernon by negligence during a routine scheduled c section. The epidural was obviously administered wrong. I recieved a random letter from a nurse stating they screwed up and still we are all suffering for justice. My daughter survived their mistake. This was November 5 2008. My wife died November 7th. 2 days on life support. I had to make the drastic decision to spare her. She was an organ donor but due to circumstances. Nothing could be spared. We have suffered for years knowing that we funded him for nothing and there was no justice for me or her 3 children Mr. Gadau drained us of all our hope, comfort and money for years. And then told us we were done. The case was closed and we still have no closure. I do not recommend him or his so called " experts " for any kind of case.
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17 Apr, 2022 by Mark larsen
24 Feb, 2021 by Julie catlett
26 Aug, 2020 by Linda goehl
25 Jan, 2022 by Ryan
Very disrespectful. In our first call I had to say “let me finish” three times before he stopped interrupting me.
Took him 12 days to confirm receipt of an email. The secretary and other lawyer who were cc’d on it didn’t reply either.
Office staff refuse to give him a message and only send you to his voicemail (he wasn’t responding, so that’s why I called the office).
He forgot what we talked about for 45 minutes.
He didn’t hold the other party accountable to the things we had both agreed on—and he was on the call when we agreed!
He couldn’t produce any results, so I had to stop working with him.
He charges $400/hour for this—save your money!
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02 Mar, 2018 by Steven
Thank you for caring about my children and through your actions giving them a future that and I hope and believe will now be bright. The most important thing an attorney, a child rep or anyone can do is look after the children of our world. You helped look after mine, and my wife and I really appreciate it.
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01 Mar, 2018 by Ngm
I found Marc to be thorough and very patient during a most traumatic time in my life. I was involved in a never ending custody battle. He was very empathetic and great with my child. He helped end this court case where others had failed. He worked hard on my case and got me the results that are in my child's best interest. I am grateful to Marc and he and my child still have a connection. My child cannot wait to play chess with him again!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Oscar
The worst Law Office its the only thing I can say
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21 Aug, 2024 by Officer j. galvez
26 Jul, 2024 by Rafael b
02 Jan, 2025 by Cara cathcart
Terrible. Did nothing for me in a multi state custodial despute. Would send me little bills for NOTHING and charge me. Total SCAM. Stay away!!! Huge lawyer group based out of state that will steal any desperate Mother's money. Hasn't been my lawyer in 5 years/case is closed. STILL sending me multiple spam emails and day stating I owe money to the trust account. BBB needs to look into this company.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
she was my exes lawyer in a divorce. she suppressed all my evidence of neglect of my son. now a few years later MOM is taking me to court for child support AFTER he turns 18 because he isnt going to graduate. BUT she was called fit and proper by this attorney. she will fight for you even if she knows she is WRONG!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Jmckean78
First time retaining an attorney and Stange Law was recommended by a friend. My attorney Chuk is very responsive to my questions, which is important when dealing with stressful legal matters. I appreciate his honest advice.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Wendy
Melissa Fish is something most lawyers are not: Sincere. She really tried to help me. But after two years of terrible litigation, I was broke. I would recommend her. Especially if you are a woman with young children. She really gave it her best shot. I would hire her again.
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23 Jul, 2013 by Milan
Unfortunately for me I hired Ms Fish to handle my divorce. After 5 months and $7500 later nothing was done and she did not know what's next, so I decided to try another attorney. Also, she was not responsive at all. I would send her an email with two questions for example, and she would answer only one question. Stay away.
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06 Jun, 2021 by Lauren douglas
21 May, 2021 by Jonathan connelly
04 Aug, 2019 by Marjorie morgan
07 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Won't fight for you. she destroyed my case moving it form will county to DuPage county because it was close to her office. I fired her after she ruined my case. my ex was arrested for battery case in will county and she sided with my ex-attorney. I am still suffering because of her decision. she likes to take easy cases where she can make easy money without helping your case. she is okay for small useless cases but not for serious ones
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03 Nov, 2018 by Anne
I retained Terry for some modifications on my Divorce and parenting agreements. After having dealt with other attorneys who gave me little to no results, I was pleasantly surprised when meeting with Terry. She was respectful and compassionate all while providing the results that I hoped for. From my 1st court date, I received the representation that my children and I deserved. My only regret is that I hadn't found her initially. Terry and Joanne, her assistant were very attentive to detail and always willing to discuss any issues at hand. I have/will recommended Fawell & Fawell to many people looking for representation in family court.
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24 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Terry was very direct and matter of fact, as well as compassionate and understanding. She explained what was happening in a calm, rational manner, so even when my ex and his lawyer were posturing in a threatening manner, she was able to de-escalate the situation. I also felt her fees were very reasonable. I was very pleased with her services!
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14 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Rebecca did an excellant jobfor my divorce. The judge was horrible and the other attorney kept filing for extensions otherwise this would have been done quickly. She was also very reasonable compared to what other attorneys quoted for a retainer and her services.
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21 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired this firm of rebecca souligne in October for my case I have not been kept informed on anything I was told emergency orders were gonna be filed 2 months for support relief low and behpld nothing has happened not worth time or money to waste with this firm no communication from them since they have hired I have been evicted out of house no car insurance no money cause of no help from firm I hired to take my caes thanks for wasting my money and time
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05 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Did what she said she would do. Other reviews obviously think their cases would get settled overnight. Unfortunately, their case is not the only one that this attorney or others have. No family law cases get settled quickly because the courts are backlogged with cases. This was the second time I have used Rebecca and she achieved our desired results. Also, she is reasonable and does not overcharge clients. These people below obviously don't realize that everytime an attorney has to call and talk to you some small detail, they charge you.
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11 Dec, 2024 by Jada r
20 Dec, 2023 by Corey white
Leon will exaggerate, twist and downright lie in his guardian ad litem reports. If you have the opportunity to choose, stay away from this dude. He’s lazy, he does the bare minimum, he has no clue what is “in the best interest of the child” as he suggests “equal shared parenting” is not an option for an child under his personal bias and preference. Leon spent his time “interviewing” family members and friends by chatting about stories about their family members, partying and old drunken memories, with minimal talk about the child, or the child’s needs and wishes. If you’re a father hoping to be just that, a father, this guy will be sure you don’t get that opportunity as he believes what’s best for a child is 14% visitation time turning you into an acquaintance to your child! Sadly, a father himself, stealing children away from loving dads in the name of money!
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15 May, 2023 by Taylor scott
I went through Leon for my divorce and noticed he avoids you and does not get back to you in a timely manner. It has been three years and he still hasn't called or emailed me back to close an active divorce case. I was told the paperwork and invoice was "on his desk" when I called the receptionist monthly and now she doesn't even work there anymore. I had called them today just to see if they even have my information in their system anymore and the sweetest receptionist lady answered and apologized over and over. I don't know if I need to hire another lawyer just to get my case cancelled or what I should do at this point...
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02 Jan, 2025 by Cara cathcart
Terrible. Did nothing for me in a multi state custodial despute. Would send me little bills for NOTHING and charge me. Total SCAM. Stay away!!! Huge lawyer group based out of state that will steal any desperate Mother's money. Hasn't been my lawyer in 5 years/case is closed. STILL sending me multiple spam emails and day stating I owe money to the trust account. BBB needs to look into this company.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Jmckean78
First time retaining an attorney and Stange Law was recommended by a friend. My attorney Chuk is very responsive to my questions, which is important when dealing with stressful legal matters. I appreciate his honest advice.
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16 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I have nothing good to say about this attorney. Could not argue his way out of a paper bag.
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25 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
The state of Nebraska is NOT exempt of the 26th amendment you moron!! You may join the military and rightfully vote at the age of 18 here... HOWEVER, as one of THREE states, a child is NOT a legal adult until the age of 19 and CANNOT leave the parents home until then, unless the parents grant permission. An absent father is legally responsible for paying child support until the child is NINETEEN!!
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11 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Non responsive, complete lack of organizational skills, total disregard to clients needs and requests. I retained this lawyer for a year and not one single thing was accomplished. I made them fully aware of what was taking place with an attorney in their firm to no avail.
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03 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
This guy represented me in a child support case several years ago....It could not have turned out better....Impressed my Ex-wife to the N-th degree...............
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28 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
She barely handled my case. At one point, she admitted that she did not complete what she was supposed to in the time promised and had the nerve to say, “in my defense, I was in court last week.” That translates to “ you are not important.” Very lackadaisical approach to representing a client.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Sksmith62
This attorney rarely returned my calls or answered my email correspondence. I had a child support order reduced by the court in October, and as of the first of February, I am still paying the previous amount of support because the required paperwork has yet to be filed with my employer. When I questioned her correspondence practices and asked for reassurance in her ability to effectively represent me, she withdrew as my council - 2 days before court.
Attorney made me feel as if me, and my case, were unimportant.
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23 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Sami Anderson handled my complicated matter better than most would have. She was attentive and detailed orientated, while at the same time, not losing the personal touch that she is known for. She is one of the busiest offices in town, but her turn around time is better than my previous attorney!
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13 Apr, 2023 by Kelita 0027
03 Aug, 2021 by Axelle touchard
#justiceforariel !!!
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03 Aug, 2021 by Cael low
#JUSTICEFORARIEL
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You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
