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30 Apr, 2019 by Jana
Mr. Harper has represented me more than once with better than expected outcomes. He has a great report with his team, the DA, Judges, etc.. Mr. Harper is straight forward about everything he does and does not back down. He believes in helping people and second chances. Mr. Harper is very clued into what you have to say & to details about your case, recommendations from the DA, your family and friends, probation, you... He will stand up for you and fight.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Sam
James and Jody treat you like family and I can’t say enough great things about them. They took care of my case and I was cleared of all charges.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Margaret demps
Joe Fanduzz has been invaluable for legal problems of my grandson. He is very responsive, handles himself well with DA’s and quickly gains a favorable rapport with the courts. He is an excellent attorney and cares about people and does not take financial advantage of your circumstances.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Anna palmer
Robert and grace have been extremely helpful with so many situations that I have had ! If you ever need a defense attorney this is your guy ! Grace has been so great at getting me information as well as explaining a lot of things I didn’t understand . Very communicative as well as gets back to you as fast as possible! Will be using them for future situations!
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02 Sep, 2024 by Brittany hall
Joe is a fantastic attorney! We have used Joe’s expertise more than once and definitely recommend him!!! He keeps his client informed and works with you! We definitely trust him and it’s hard to do that when it regards your freedom or loved ones freedom!
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11 Oct, 2024 by William coleman
A ticket I received turned out to be a Class A misdemeanor. Couldn't just pay a fine, had to appear in court. After looking up Class A misdemeanor it appeared more serious than a standard ticket, so I chose to seek legal advice. I called the Baker law firm and Mr Baker himself returned my call. I was set up with a meeting the next day and related what had happened. He felt quite certain he could get the case dismissed, possibly without a court appearance, and if that wasn't possible a short appearance in court and court costs, and the problem would be solved. Within a few hours his secretary called and informed me he had negotiated the dismissal. I did have to appear in court the next day but that went smoothly in less than a half hour. I felt like he and his staff truly cared about my problem. I give the Baker Law firm my highest recommendation. Lynn Coleman
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08 Oct, 2024 by Baden friday
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08 Oct, 2024 by Allen west jr
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06 Mar, 2024 by Sharon stout
He represented me in my case with my grandson and he is an excellent attorney. Very smart and professional. I highly recommend Mr Brinson.
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01 Mar, 2024 by Timothy chambers
Miles Brinson is an excellent, compassionate, and knowledgeable attorney. Having gone against him in a hotly contested child custody case, I can say without a shadow of a doubt that he brings great honor to the legal profession.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Aaron simerly
Miles has been my lawyer for about 4 years now. He's represented me in the 3 cases that I have had and always got me what I wanted and gave me a walk through of what's to be expected during the process. He's very responsive and easy to get in touch with. Super pleased with him and will always refer anyone who needs legal counsel to go through him.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Ms. Human is so passionate about her work - she is kind and thorough with everything she does. I would HIGHLY recommend her for any legal needs.
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19 Jul, 2023 by Wade phillips
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28 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Nicole helped me navigate the most tumultuous time of my life. She advocated for me when I wasn't able to do it for myself. I originally visited her office with an offer my ex extended me, in the end, with Nicole's help I ended up with 3x the original offer. She took the time to explain the process, charged fair rates, and was conscience of my budget restraints. Thanks to her I got to the other side of this!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Cori schimmek
I hired Held Law Firm to help me attain a passport for my minor child that was unfortunately not covered in my original divorce agreement. Margaret and her team were wonderful. There were some issues at the hearing, (no fault of Held Law Firm), but Margaret went above and beyond for me. There are not many attorneys in this town or elsewhere that want to “make it right” for their clients. If I ever need an attorney in the future, I will definitely hire the ladies at Held Law. Thank you all for your help, kindness and integrity.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Joyce atchley
The persons at the firm were very polite and knowledgeable. Wray and I are so glad we came there for our needs. Thanks so much Celey for your hard work
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12 Mar, 2024 by Tyann switzer
Held Law Firm was amazing in representing me in my divorce. Melanie handled my case and was very thorough in the details. I was very anxious and scared about the process, but she was very kind and helpful. She was always available to answer my questions no matter how small they were. She negotiated very well on my behalf of the custody plan with my child and on my behalf of the divorce settlement. Melanie even kept in touch with me after my divorce was final to make sure my settlement was awarded correctly. I highly recommend Held Law Firm.
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19 Nov, 2017 by Angela
Mr. Brinson helped me so much through my divorce. It was not something I ever thought I would go through, and Mr. Brinson was kind and understanding throughout the process. He answered my questions in a way that helped me understand some complicated things, but never made me feel dumb. I was also in contact with Mr. Brinson often because of my many questions and concerns, and he never got impatient with me. He always took the time to talk to me without seeming to rush. I felt like he truly cared about my situation and that he did his best to get me the best outcome possible. I couldn't recommend him any more highly.
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20 Apr, 2017 by Stacey
Just wanted to say that Mr. Brinson is a phenomenal lawyer! Through our case he was consistently concerned and focused on the safety of me and my children. Thank you so much, Alex!
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23 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I am disabled and Alex Brinson was assigned to me for divorce on a 30 year marriage from a husband that was controlling and abusive. When Alex told me he was dropping me because couldn't get husband served (even though husband in military) I didn't know what to do so I tried to find him myself (with backup assistance of course). When Alex found out he was extremely rude and told me I didn't act like an abused spouse and was a stalker. I cannot believe how rude and unprofessional this attorney was to me. He has no idea what I have been through and how controlling my husband was. I just want a divorce!!! Alex has no clue about military divorces nor what all was required when filing paperwork with the court. Don't expect him to go above and beyond for you or be professional. I don't even know why he works through legal aide if he doesn't plan on providing appropriate services. With his limited knowledge on divorce and rude demeanor I would never recommend him to anyone!
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11 Oct, 2024 by William coleman
A ticket I received turned out to be a Class A misdemeanor. Couldn't just pay a fine, had to appear in court. After looking up Class A misdemeanor it appeared more serious than a standard ticket, so I chose to seek legal advice. I called the Baker law firm and Mr Baker himself returned my call. I was set up with a meeting the next day and related what had happened. He felt quite certain he could get the case dismissed, possibly without a court appearance, and if that wasn't possible a short appearance in court and court costs, and the problem would be solved. Within a few hours his secretary called and informed me he had negotiated the dismissal. I did have to appear in court the next day but that went smoothly in less than a half hour. I felt like he and his staff truly cared about my problem. I give the Baker Law firm my highest recommendation. Lynn Coleman
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08 Oct, 2024 by Baden friday
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08 Oct, 2024 by Allen west jr
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21 Mar, 2024 by Larry mcleod
I will forever be grateful for Knoxville Family Law! They helped me get custody of my kids, and my ex’s lies were exposed. Thank you for all of your hard work and belief in the father.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Michael fortune
Blair Kennedy is great! You will be very happy with how she handles your case. Some attorneys are afraid to go to court but Blair thrives in an adversarial environment. She will fight for you!
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03 Oct, 2023 by Susan s.
Blair is an amazing lawyer. She is so smart and worked very hard on my case. We won thanks to her.
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01 Jun, 2020 by Renita
I have hired this attorney twice. Both times he was efficient and won my cases. I did not hesitate to pay for his work. He seems to know the system and those that work in the system. I appreciated his honesty in evaluating the possibilities before going into the courtroom. He appeared in the courtroom on time and did not draw out his fees like other lawyers. He did not talk to me like I was uneducated. The process was as good as it could have been under the circumstances.
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30 May, 2019 by Richard
He took on my case and stood in my place to straighten out issues I had started without an attorney. I'm still working with him and he's become a friend of mine in the process. Somethings I wish would have moved faster but in hindsight I'm lucky they didn't as a whole new world of options have since presented themselves. The reason for the 5 stars is he opened up to me on why we haven't moved faster on a certain issue and I really doubt another lawyer would've told me what he did. When the time comes he'll stomp all over the opposing parties. People have to remember things usually don't go as quick as you'd like. I'm sticking with him and have more things in the fire that will come his way.
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16 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired this person to protect me in my divorce. It was my house before marriage so I owned it. Ex wife even agreed. He tells me if I will sell my house to my ex he will forego his bill. I sign a quitclaim he says she needs for financing. She goes same day and registered it. I come home my ex is moving in and police make me leave. I could not get work I did on computer for payment out of my house. It's been 2 months since divorce final. I'm still not paid, I'm now homeless living in car, I am disabled and had been unemployed for 2 years. I cannot tell you how much money he has cost me and has left me in worse condition I've ever been in. Would never return phone call or text, he emailed me twice, Now he has lien on monies due me. He's a class act. Before I fired him, I called him 5x in about an hour, no answer. My friend says use my phone. He answered, surprised that i was on the phone. This being 3 weeks with no communication from him and my being kicked out of house. My car got repo. You have been warned.
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08 Dec, 2020 by Ethan
At the lowest point of my life, Mr. Stansell Helped me pick up the pieces. He was always communicative, answering calls or emails from me well outside regular hours. He offered wonderful advice and truly helped make this divorce and child custody process bearable. I cannot recommend enough.
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02 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Talked a good talk, but did very little. I never received communication, documents, returned phone calls. Was not informed of a court date, nor was the opposing counsel! Billed several thousand dollars for nothing. Left firm abruptly (I assume he was fired) which was the only positive thing that happened.
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13 Jun, 2017 by Tyler
Being faced with a divorce while on deployment, Mr. Stansell took excellent care and represented me throughout the process. He was attentive, responsive, and a calming force during a very hard time in my life. He answered all my questions and helped me to make sense of divorce proceedings when I wasn't even in the country. He helped me find contractors to do work on my home so it could be put on the market, appraisers for cars and jewelry - he really was an outstanding attorney. I highly recommend Zachariah to anyone who is looking for someone who knows their stuff, is aggressive when necessary and will represent you and your interests well, and also give honest feedback throughout the process. He is a five star attorney and worth every penny. Cannot thank him enough for what he did for me and my family.
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31 Jul, 2021 by T.
We hired Mr. Herrera after a pleasant phone call to help my elderly mother with a landlord (slumlord). After paying his fee for a letter we had to seriously edit because it did not contain troubling elements regarding her landlord's negligence, he was difficult to reach and made excuses contrary to legal remedies we know existed. A month after the first letter, as we waited for the landlord to take action on his dilapidated house, I hired him to write a letter to a business competitor regarding his defamation and slander. I had to write the entire thing, including state and federal laws he was ignoring, as I'd already emailed him the laws and their corresponding precedents. Months later, after landlord had failed to live up to his own written promises, much less repair the house in a livable fashion -- which includes a failing heating and ductwork system -- Mr. Herrera told my mom to wait until winter before we could address the issue. Seriously? Seriously. We'd informed him, with photos, of this problem the PREVIOUS WINTER. To get that "answer," we had to call numerous times over the course of two weeks, finally stating "we'll have to hire a new attorney if we don't hear from you today." He took our money, wrote crappy letters, refused to any follow-up, and never stated fees for more action. Maybe he didn't want to take any action. Maybe he made his easy money and that was all he wanted. We paid for letters I could've written myself just to have his Esq. attached to them. Wasted six months and $800 which would've been better spent on a competent lawyer. Nothing has changed since we sadly chose Mr. Herrera to "represent" us.
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What a Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Do for You

A domestic violence lawyer provides legal assistance to individuals involved in cases of domestic abuse, whether you are a victim seeking protection or someone accused of domestic violence defending against the charges. These lawyers help with obtaining restraining orders (protective orders), representing clients in criminal court, and handling related family law issues such as child custody, divorce, and visitation rights.

If you are dealing with domestic violence, a lawyer can help protect your rights and navigate the legal system to ensure your safety or defend you if you’re falsely accused.

When Should I Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a domestic violence lawyer if you are:

  • 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.
  • 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. What is the likely outcome of my case?
    Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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:

  • 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.
  • 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.

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