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21 May, 2022 by Monica gilmore
13 Jan, 2020 by Brady eyer
24 May, 2019 by Kathleen
I contacted Will Corrigan about a speeding ticket I received. He outlined my options very clearly for me and provided a link and an explanation to information I was searching for and was otherwise unable to find. Excellent advice and he relieved my worst fears about the consequences.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Adam
Amazing experience! I would highly recommend Tucker to everyone!
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18 Nov, 2024 by Jim bruner
Working with Brandi Lewis was a wonderful experience. She knows her stuff. Brandi was easily accessible throughout the process and at the ready with supportive advice and clear explanations to set our expectations for what was to come. Her keen knowledge of the law and the court system resulted in a fantastic ruling of our case. Thank you Brandi!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Tim walton
Rachel Yavelak has helped me multiple times now and has been very professional and very helpful each time. 10/10 recommend!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Jared pappas
My sincere thanks and gratitude to Julie and Ethan. Julie as GAL to my daughters helped us all immeasurably through many years of litigation and trauma. Julie stood by our side throughout despite the difficulty of the situation. Thank you for being there for us all.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Kristin baisch
I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional service I received from Ethan. He was not only kind and approachable, but he also demonstrated remarkable organization and attention to detail throughout my case. His proactive approach and willingness to help made a significant difference during a challenging time. I truly appreciate all of his efforts and highly recommend him to anyone in need of a divorce attorney.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Amy schulwolf
Julie is kind, compassionate and excellent!
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20 Nov, 2024 by Jared pappas
My sincere thanks and gratitude to Julie and Ethan. Julie as GAL to my daughters helped us all immeasurably through many years of litigation and trauma. Julie stood by our side throughout despite the difficulty of the situation. Thank you for being there for us all.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Kristin baisch
I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional service I received from Ethan. He was not only kind and approachable, but he also demonstrated remarkable organization and attention to detail throughout my case. His proactive approach and willingness to help made a significant difference during a challenging time. I truly appreciate all of his efforts and highly recommend him to anyone in need of a divorce attorney.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Amy schulwolf
Julie is kind, compassionate and excellent!
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23 Dec, 2024 by Tim doherty
From the start Suhre and Associates, specifically Mr. McGee made the process extremely simple and easy to understand while reducing stress. I am very happy with the whole process including the final outcome, which turned out way better than I imagined it could have! Thank you!!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Ebony bridgewater
From day one of my issues, the Justice Law team took on my case with such poise and professionalism. I'm so glad I called them. They where always just a call away no matter what I needed, they helped. I really appreciate the services they provided in getting my settlement. They made it easy and less stressful. I'm so thankful for this team of attorneys.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Jessica coleman
Mr. Brent McGee and his team did an amazing job working with my son. He was always available to address questions or concerns and guide us through the legal process. If someone needs a lawyer who will advocate for their child in the court system I would highly recommend this firm.
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30 Jan, 2023 by Phyllis
She represented me in a contempt of court case involving my ex-spouse against non payment of maintenance. She is very good at what she does and we came out with a big WIN.
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20 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
She has been fighting for me and my kids over the past year, she will understand all details and will own your case, she will be always available for you, she is professional and honest, she helped me win two cases! She is just Awesome!
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26 Oct, 2017 by Tony
I hired Emily as my lawyer. My son's mother and I seperated and she was trying to move out of state with my son. I felt that Emily took personal interest in my case. She always had great ideas, and was always at least one step ahead of opposing council. My case continued for almost two years, and Emily was there to fight for me and my son every step of the way. I would refer others to Emily, and she will remain my lawyer for as long as she stays in this proffession.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Gene hanna
We worked with Woody and this man is a true leader. He is a man of faith and leads with that. I'm so proud to have met him and had the pleasure of resolving our adoption together. He really has given us the best blessing possible and he was so humble. Look no further this man is a great man and Secondly a great attorney. We all want a good attorney but those are made of good people first!
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25 Oct, 2024 by Charles sims
Marvin and his staff are absolutely the best and very professional. I would recommend them to anyone. 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star service all the way. Thanks again
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16 Oct, 2024 by Kristy
Fantastic law firm. I read the reviews on this law firm prior to calling them - the positive reviews were accurate. What a great group of people to have working for you. They are all professional and kind, caring hardworkers. They achieved a favorable outcome for me on a rather complicated matter. We will definitely choose them again, next time we are in need of a lawyer!
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24 Jan, 2025 by Kyle sprague
Clark is great to work with!
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18 Nov, 2024 by Oshia nix
Great team to work any of your problems .
Very nice & ready to help you !
Such a great group !
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18 Nov, 2024 by Geneva cauthen
23 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Brenna was very professional and provided a favorable outcome for our family. The case was quite a challenge and she took it in stride.
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08 Mar, 2013 by Perri froehle
Our experience with Brenna has been nothing short of outstanding. She is hands-on, she quickly addresses our concerns and questions, and she provides common sense advice and guidance, all of which allows us to highly recommend Brenna as a confident legal representative of family law issues.
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06 Mar, 2013 by Sarah mullins
I highly recommend Penrose Law and Brenna! She was great to work with and made me feel very comfortable throughout the process with her expansive knowledge. In addition, she was also very consistent in her communication and kept me up-to-date throughout the process. She made the entire process quick and easy. I would highly recommend her services.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Kenneth cravens
02 Jul, 2024 by Toni rademaker
A fearless and talented attorney. Thank you.
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16 May, 2024 by Angela jones
Horrible law office. Contacted them 3 weeks ago and said they would get with me and I never heard ONE word from them.
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21 Dec, 2024 by Erica oechsli
Zach is the best! He's very knowledgeable. He helped me through my divorce. He always replied to me and made the process so easy. I definitely recommend him!
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17 Dec, 2024 by Whitney miles
Ashley has been nothing, but helpful and kind to me over the last few years. I will always be thankful for her & her guidance.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Sarah hay
Adam Stotts is professional, punctual and fair. Most importantly, Adam focuses on and defends a child’s best interest. He has been an outstanding advocate for Father’s parental rights.
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04 Nov, 2016 by Melvin
Roy Denny has been my Attorney since 2014 and he has got the job done. Very professional and heped me through the tough issues that go in to dealing with custody legal matters.
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25 Oct, 2016 by Erin
No matter my needs, I always call Mr. Denny first. He is very responsive & professional, and will handle my issue promptly, and fairly. If I come to him with an issue that's outside his area of expertise, he has always referred me to another attorney that's equally awesome. Roy Denny will always be my trusted attorney.
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03 Jan, 2024 by Terry huff
She was my Attorney 25 years ago. The best doesn’t cover it.
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19 Jan, 2022 by Dennis gambrell
Martha is the real deal straight sitter
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24 Mar, 2020 by Austin edwards
14 Sep, 2024 by Randall leslie
Hes a fine good counselor.
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31 Aug, 2024 by Shalena burton
27 Aug, 2024 by Monica hutchins
Awesome attorney!
Would highly recommend to anyone in need!
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16 May, 2024 by Idnarb p
Took 2.5 weeks to respond to an email. Gave me the impression that they aren't interested in a case unless it justifies spending most of your $3,000 retainer.
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15 Jan, 2024 by Courtney austin
15 Feb, 2023 by Amanda smith
Kate has absolutely been my best investment for peace and resolution. Not only is she fair, but she holds accountability without making things worse for all involved. I never thought a family attorney could be like family, but she is. Kate has carried me thru some of the toughest times in my life with our case. I can’t thank her enough for being the guiding light and just a good human overall!
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28 Oct, 2024 by Darcy kirk
Miss Sarah done the most wonderful job for me on my divorce. She is so kind and made me very comfortable while she worked with me. I will definitely recommend her for anyone to use. It was so easy and very quick. I am and will always be very grateful.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Jeff higgins
I've had a couple different attorneys since my divorce dealing with custody/child support issues and Mrs. Jones is the one I should have had from the beginning. She is an amazing attorney who cares about her clients 100%. If I could give more than 5 stars I would!
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31 Jul, 2024 by Paul cellucci
I needed a good lawyer to do a simple divorce, Sarah came highly recommended her fees were very reasonable and she did a great job in handling my divorce. If you ever need a great lawyer I highly recommend using Sarah she's a great lawyer.
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02 Nov, 2021 by David thornton
Did what was needed. Nothing more,nothing less.
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19 Jul, 2020 by Katie sharp
05 Feb, 2020 by Marissa lainhart
25 Oct, 2024 by Treen superman
I recently worked with this for my legal case, and unfortunately, my experience was far from satisfactory. From the beginning, I felt that my concerns were not taken seriously, and communication was often lacking. My attorney seemed unprepared and did not provide the attention my case required.
I had high expectations based on their reputation, but I left feeling disappointed and frustrated. I believe my case deserved more diligence and commitment. I hope others have a better experience, but I would not recommend this firm based on my own.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Rob burgin
Mr. Tibbs is great, he's helped me numerous times on multiple occasions and I can't say that there has ever been a time that I was unhappy or unsatisfied with the outcome of my case, I have and would Definitely recommend him and plan to use him again in the future if needed!
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09 Oct, 2024 by Troy peake
17 Jan, 2025 by Madie paige
Anthony is the best in the business! He was very attentive, thorough, and kind. Couldn't have asked for a better lawyer for my case.
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04 Jan, 2025 by Abdoulaye ndiaye
23 Dec, 2024 by David
I hired Jacqueline Mayer, or should I say I hired the law firm that Jacqueline Mayer worked at after being accused of a misdemeanor crime. I did not hire Jacqueline or the firm that she was working at because of AVVO. I hired the law firm due to their reputation and feedback given by other clients through Google. Shortly thereafter Jacqueline Mayer decided to leave the law firm and to start her own practice. After Consulting with the law firm and getting to know Jacqueline Mayer initially I was given the choice to either stay with the law firm or to continue to have Jacqueline Mayer represent me outside of their Law Firm. I chose to stay with Jacqueline Mayer only because I had been initially working with her and established a preliminary relationship with her. I only later realized that this was the biggest mistake I could have made. Jacqueline is young and quite inexperienced. I later found out that before briefly working at the aforementioned Law Firm Jacqueline Mayer had worked with the District Attorney's office for several years here in Lexington Kentucky and had a personal understanding of the judge that had been assigned my court case. I, as most people might, thought that her working knowledge of the judge was very encouraging. Here in Lexington, as in most communities, having an attorney that has a understanding of their working environment as well as a working relationship with the prosecuting attorney seems like a great strategic choice. As you may or may not know the police only need reasonable suspicion of a crime having been committed which is much different than the standard required in court which is based on facts Beyond A Reasonable Doubt. Reasonable Suspicion is basically and alleged victims statement. Whereas in court you have to present evidence that a crime has been committed and there is evidence Beyond Reasonable Doubt that you would be guilty of a crime. The prosecutor's office nor the detectives involved had any evidence other than an accusation that a crime had been committed. However Jacqueline's inexperience as a defense attorney and close working relationship with the prosecutor's office turned out to be a little less than a complete nightmare for me. In the few months the Jacqueline Mayor representing me she did not file not even one motion. There was no motion for an evidentiary hearing there was no motion to examine a witness and their most certainly was no motion to dismiss because the prosecutor's office and the detectives had absolutely zero evidence other than an accusation. Let's remember that one's friend Court the standard for prosecution or for a trial conviction is evidence Beyond Reasonable Doubt. Jacqueline Mayor, after our first pre-trial hearing seemed absolutely lost. Pretrial hearing after pretrial hearing was called by the judge and Jacqueline Mayor did absolutely nothing other than show up in court. After the 5th or 6th pretrial hearing I began getting the impression that Jacqueline Mayer had never defended a case by herself in her entire life. After the 5th or 6th pre-trial hearing I demanded evidence of exactly what she had done to represent me other than to show up in court. At this time I begin initial conversations with a different attorney. As a result of me having demanded evidence of what she had done to deserve such a healthy fee she produced absolutely nothing and the court records can easily represent exactly what I'm saying to be the truth. Very shortly after being provided zero evidence that Jacqueline Mayer had done anything with my case other than to show up in court I began securing representation from another attorney. My patience with Jacqueline Mayer had come to an end. At this point Jacqueline and I had a conversation. And by conversation I mean that I basically verbally drug her from one end of Main Street to the other. Long story short my new attorney had my case dismissed within two hearings and made sure my record was completely expunged!
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13 Jun, 2024 by Alyssa whalen
02 Apr, 2024 by Amy wright
Mr. Scott and his team are very knowledgeable and professional. He was able to answer all my questions throughly and he listened to my needs/concerns. I feel that I was very well taken care of and represented! Highly recommend!!!
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12 Mar, 2024 by Samantha skavdahl
Rick is incredible. He made my husband and I feel so safe and taken care of. He went above and beyond his call of duty. I really have no other words other then thank you.
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15 Jan, 2025 by Stephen mcintosh
Awful
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08 Jan, 2025 by Anthony cross
Mr. Hulbert is exactly who you want representing you! I was so impressed I paid more than his extremely economical price. I’m not sure one can be better and would strive to be as good. Even the judge mentioned his winning streak! Seriously. Forever grateful and what a great job! Super impressed!
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12 Dec, 2024 by J oliver
04 Sep, 2024 by Kenneth cravens
02 Jul, 2024 by Toni rademaker
A fearless and talented attorney. Thank you.
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16 May, 2024 by Angela jones
Horrible law office. Contacted them 3 weeks ago and said they would get with me and I never heard ONE word from them.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Teresa lona
06 Dec, 2023 by Sarah mccormick
I called up there and had an appointment with them it's $250 for a consultation to see if you want to take them on as a lawyer it was definitely $250 wasted she acted like she didn't have time she had no interest and it was definitely money first what was going on second. I was very disappointed.
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20 Feb, 2022 by Sbriscoe 0318
Amazing attorney has helped me and had my best interest in mind always.
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13 Apr, 2013 by Stephen
mr mcintire has represented me multiple times. i personally would say that he is better than the best. very professional and kept me informed the whole time. i would highly recomend him.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Candice m
Aaron was great to work with. He communicated well and was able to take care of the lawsuit. He was quick to respond to my calls and email. Appreciate all your help. I would highly recommend him.
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10 Nov, 2024 by Jessica kalb
Aaron is an amazing attorney. His even temperament under stress is so reassuring leading up to court and in the court room. Aaron gives great advice and will take the time to explain all possible outcomes to his clients. Aaron has been my families go-to attorney for years and in a variety of ways he has helped us navigate the often confusing legal process. If you are seeking an honest and fair attorney, Aaron will be there for you.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Christina t
I used this law office for probate services, and Aaron was great to work with. He was honest, professional, and told me what I needed to hear, not just what I wanted. Though there were a few small miscommunications, he handled my case very well, and I’m okay with the outcome.
I’d recommend his office to anyone, especially for working-class clients. He’s always willing to work with you.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Susan baum
I was an out-of-stater needing to find a local attorney I located Marl's name online. I left a message and he returned my note very quickly. He fully understood my situation and spent much time on the phone discussing my concerns. I knew I wanted him to represent me. He met me in court and sure enough his strategy for the issue was perfect. His friendliness, professionalism, and skill helped me resolve the issue. I highly recommend Mark to support you in your legal matters.
Susan B
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11 Dec, 2024 by Yung old
Mark is the man. Traveling through Kentucky, I left the commonwealth with several charges including a couple felonies. Waited until the last minute and finally turned to Google to find an attorney to help me through my.. situation
Mark absolutely delivered on every aspect of the case. Zero surprises. He has a good working relationship with state prosecutors and is able to navigate conversations and plea negotiations more effectively than most other lawyers.
If you find yourself in a situation you absolutely don’t want to be in and if you want to put it behind you as quickly and as definitively as possible, give Mark a call and give him the details of your situation and allow him to put your mind at ease and get to work getting you the best result possible.
Thank you for all you do, Mark!
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04 Dec, 2024 by Chadrik kyle
Mark responded to my initial call immediately with an appointment that day. He was clear and consise about what he could do. The day of court he achieved exactly what he said he would strive for. I will definitely use his services again in the future if needed as well as recommend to anyone who needs counsel. Thank you Mark you are very much appreciated.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Treen superman
I recently worked with this for my legal case, and unfortunately, my experience was far from satisfactory. From the beginning, I felt that my concerns were not taken seriously, and communication was often lacking. My attorney seemed unprepared and did not provide the attention my case required.
I had high expectations based on their reputation, but I left feeling disappointed and frustrated. I believe my case deserved more diligence and commitment. I hope others have a better experience, but I would not recommend this firm based on my own.
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15 Oct, 2024 by Patricia
Mister Coleman was very professional and did his job a hundred percent like he was supposed to. He showed up and he took care of my case very well. He was very polite and
He has a good attendance. He was very understanding of my situation. He was very helpful and got me the outcome I wanted.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Rob burgin
Mr. Tibbs is great, he's helped me numerous times on multiple occasions and I can't say that there has ever been a time that I was unhappy or unsatisfied with the outcome of my case, I have and would Definitely recommend him and plan to use him again in the future if needed!
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30 Apr, 2024 by Kyle webb
Absolutely Amazing!!!
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16 Jan, 2023 by Ronald tomes
25 Dec, 2022 by All mighty moving rick romohr
It doesn't get any better... Always prompt and professional, made me feel like my time was important, truly cares, indulged me, is genuine, affordable, and sincerely cares..I won't use anyone else!
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08 Nov, 2024 by Richelle
I told them I did not want to be represented by them anymore and they continue to take money out of my account. Refused to even contact me after the initial consultation until I said I didn’t want to be represented by them any longer. I don’t want to be contacted I want the money to STOP coming out of my account!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Willard johnson
We can’t thank Farmer & Wright enough for their incredible help with our bankruptcy case. From the very beginning, they were professional, compassionate, and truly understanding of our financial situation. We highly recommend Farmer & Wright to anyone who needs a knowledgeable and supportive bankruptcy lawyer. Truly a five-star experience!
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01 Nov, 2024 by Shelia calloway
They are very nice people and go out of their way to make sure you understand the process and procedures of your case on a personal and legal level. I am very glad I hired them.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Mary goodloe
John and his staff is amazing. Loving and always willing to help. Did great job for me!
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11 Sep, 2024 by El hajj ahmad
This man said he is going to help then he stopped answering, I went to his office several times he is never there, the keep telling me he will call back but he never do. I then tried to call him several times and something he is not in his office and never return the call
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20 Aug, 2024 by Kristen renee’
By far the best attorney. I would 100% use again, and recommend to everyone whom needs his services. He was patient, he was very knowledgeable and always answered any questions. He worked around my busy schedule, even while he was busy himself. I can honestly say he went above and beyond to get me the best results for my case!
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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.
