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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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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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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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14 Feb, 2023 by Midwest handyman services inc
01 Mar, 2024 by Morgan luca
Robert Steele has already sued me once for 7,000 of unpaid medical bills. He is now going after my boyfriend for a hospital bill from 2011. The hospital is closed and the bill is over 10 years old. On top of all this I was diagnosed with breast cancer so my boyfriend is the only one getting a paycheck right now. . He makes just over minimum wage. We can barely afford food and every cent goes to bills and medical coverage. This shark is garnishing his wage. Thanks steele
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13 Feb, 2024 by Nick van schaick
Greedy and soulless corporate scumbag.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Eric lucas
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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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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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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09 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Wes Cowell is a liar, plain and simple. He is an immoral, manipulative person who works only for his own self-interest and will abandon his responsibilities with shocking ease. Hire at your own serious risk.
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06 Jul, 2024 by Rian marquez
My experience with Attorney Curtis Ross was nothing short of a nightmare. From the outset, he displayed a level of rudeness and disrespect that was utterly appalling. When I sought clarification on certain legal matters, he dismissed my concerns with the utmost arrogance, labeling my questions as "idiotic."
Instead of fulfilling his role as a legal advocate, he left me to fend for myself in court, all the while painting a false picture of me as argumentative. His complete lack of support and guidance was both shocking and deeply disappointing.
Save yourself the headache and avoid hiring Curtis Ross at all costs. He is an utter disgrace to the legal profession and will leave you high and dry when you need support the most.
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28 Oct, 2022 by Susan dotson
He's 76 years old and very forgetful. If you're lucky, Curtis Ross will remember to provide zoom information. If he has a bad day he may forget and you could miss court or be very late. He loves to celebrate every holiday and disappear days before court. Do you want him to prepare before court? Do you want to be prepped before court? If the answer is "no" pay his $5,000 retainer and $375.00 an hour.
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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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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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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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29 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Poor communication skills about my case. I wouldn't recommend him to anyone. He doesn't return calls, and he doesn't stand up for my child in court either.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Andrea defalco
In my opinion, Gail is a threat to the safety of children. Based on the overwhelming number of reviews saying the same, I am sharing how to report her conduct. It is easy to file a report with both regulatory boards/commissions.
Use the link below if you have used her in the capacity as a Psychologist:
https://idfpr.illinois.gov/admin/dpr/complaint.html
Select “Professional Regulation” and fill out the information in the form.
Use the link below if you have used her in the capacity as an Attorney:
https://www.iardc.org/Files/Request_For__Investigation.pdf
In my opinion Gail is a danger to children and families. In my opinion, she puts children at risk of serious harm. In my opinion she must be stopped.
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14 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
We used Gail for divorce mediation. She was late for every appointment. She clearly hadn't ever review anything prior to our meetings and then never sent us our final documents. She was supposed to connect us with a lawyer at the end who 'she works with' to finalize and file our case, she did not do that, she completely disappeared once our last payment was sent. I called and emailed many times and no one responded. She was slow during meetings and wasn't much help with any questions we had. If it hadn't been during a pandemic we would have changed mediator. Ours was a simple divorce, I would hate someone in the middle of a stressful divorce to have to deal with this unprofessionalism on top of that.
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16 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
This women will continue to try to convince you that abuse of your children is okay. She as a mandated reporter will hide abuse in order to assure she will receive a paycheck from you as long as possible. She will make excuses for the abuser and lie to Judges/Child representatives/DCFS, because if the children get removed from the abusive home she loses you as a client. Please make sure to report this woman to the state of Illinois if anything like this has happened to you. A hospital Doctor that had to care for our children said that Dr. Gail Petrich’s actions are “disgusting and she should be ashamed of herself”. We cannot let people like Dr. Gail Petrich continue to practice.
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23 Apr, 2015 by Bill
She was fairly knowledgeable on divorce law, but did not send opposing counsel our settlement offers. She was not very well organized and became harder and harder to contact and get a response from her. Did not receive my first bill until about 45 days after I retained her and I was way over my retainer at that point.
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18 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Did not communicate, rarely answered calls , did not have details of my case correct when we were before the judge, very rude, accepted payments then said she never agreed to them and wanted to be paid in full or she would not go to court for me. Court was in 5 days. When I did manage to meet with her she didn't know why I was there and said I needed to spoon feed her. Overall do not hire her , you will end up in debt and wondering if she presented your case or someone elses to the judge.
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13 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
If Aronberg Goldgehn have any self respect for their firm they'll send this arrogant, incompetent lawyer on retirement and pronto!
Not only is he completely inept in what he's hired to do, he's cognitively incapacitated (my sympathy but it's a sign you can't perform as you pledge), rude, forgetful, unaccountable for his actions or lack thereof, dismissive, ignorant and most of all: full of misconduct (unsubstantiated charges) that should be and will be raised to ARDC. Desperate for billing hours, he'll do absolutely nothing for you but bill you for it without justification. To avoid being held accountable for his misconduct and negligence, he'll refuse to communicate any way there is a record of it (email, etc),
STAY AWAY FROM HIM and report him as soon as you notice any of the red flags. I wish I read his (atrocious) reviews prior to being engaged with this person.
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12 Nov, 2021 by Michael
First of all, the picture you see was likely taken decades ago. This man and his law firm are reprehensible. As a divorced Father of three, my ex-wife went ballistic when I moved in with my partner and her two children. We spent 17 months in Lake County Family Law Court fighting an Emergency Motion to remove my parenting time. Zaslavsky was routinely unprepared, could not remember basic facts, arrogant and dismissive of my ideas / opinions. When I questioned him and his failure to challenge the corrupt Judge Charles Smith (who was removed from his post after we complained), Zaslavsky fired me in the middle of the case. When I reached out to his senior partners in protest, they provided me with another Attorney from the firm to replace him. She was definitely better, but these people all eat at the same table, and at the end of the day, they are all cowards. They will not stand up for what is right if there is any fear that they will anger the Judge. Also, this was during Covid, when the hearings were all remote Zoom. Zaslavsky stalled and extended the legal process as much as possible to keep the meter running (a common trick). Despite the fact that I beat back all of the lies and distortions brought on by my ex-wife, and despite the fact that my custody never changed, I went into debt $30K and lost my employment. I "won" on paper, but in truth, I would have been better off representing myself. This is entire process is corrupt, and nobody wins except the lawyers.
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13 May, 2021 by James
I was extremely dissatisfied with this lawyer. I Hired her outside of avvo. There lawfirm is very expensive and does not care how much it costs you.
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09 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
called this older lady for a consultation she was very nasty and rude she didn't even give me a chance to tell her the facts of my case before interrupting repeadly. Obviously someone who is working from home on a budget from the background loud atmosphere she was in
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23 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
John Barr: This attorney has ten counts of misconduct. Please be careful in giving your business to this attorney. Get a real description of his license
.
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11 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Does dirty, shady work. Is never compassionate. Does not send proper notification, never mails statements, goes behind your back. Don't hire, don't patronize his business.
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26 Jan, 2015 by Kevin
I hired David to meet with my client about a will. He talked a good game until i gave him authority to contact the client. When he arrived at the retirement community he refused to get on the elevator because he weighed too much. He pressured her into giving him a check for $850.00.. He demanded a 90 year old widow talk about her private information in a public restaurant that all her neighbors eat at. He wrote down her name and her beneficiaries grab the check and took off. She asked how are you going to do a will if you haven't talked to the guy who handles my financial accounts. He said this is a very simple will. She felt like she got scammed. When I called the office to talk about the unfortunate event that happened he asked me "who I was" I responded by saying I am the one that hired you for $150.00 to meet with my client and you pressured her into giving you a check for $850.00 he said I don't talk about my clients personal affairs and hung up. After calling him for 2 weeks he finally returned the widow's call. She instructed him to speak with me and to apologize for being rude. He disappeared again for many days. When he did call her back he said he had the will done and he was not going to work with the man that hired him. She told him she was seeking other representation and he intimidated her to tears. He called her until we told him every time she calls us crying about him we are recording the calls he finally stopped. We still have not seen the money returned. Beware of this guy he prayed on the elderly and he wanted to charge her $850 to write down her name and her beneficiaries.
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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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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:
-
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:
-
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.
-
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:
-
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.
