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22 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Jody is the best family attorney I have met, she is knowledgeable, professional, and always willing to help. With her help I went through very hard times in my family situation. Every time I faced challenges and asked her, she was able to give very professional and helpful advice. If you need a family attorney, I would highly recommend Jody from my experience.
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20 Jun, 2024 by Douglas
As a business professional, I have required legal services for countless situations over my lifetime. Mostly for normal business dealings, though a few were more adversarial in nature. In either case, selecting the best attorney for the situation is obviously important. When our family was faced with a situation involving a family member being falsely accused, I found myself out of my element as family law was an area I had never needed to explore. I did know however, not having the best attorney in this particular case would mean a devastating outcome and a tarnished record that would haunt us for a very long time. My vast and extensive research brought our family to Usow Law and thank goodness it did. Simply put, Jody Usow is an extraordinary attorney in every way. From the beginning, she was great at managing the expectations, the process and our family. Even though our emotions and frustrations would sometimes run wild due to the unjust accusations, Jody always managed to recenter us and focus on the law and her plan to succeed. Jody's experience and overall strategy in dealing with the opposition was brilliant. I was very impressed with her proactive tactics that set the stage for a favorable outcome. Watching Jody in the courtroom was a sight to behold. Measured and mild-mannered up until the petitioner's testimony became clearly disingenuous, and the lion was unleashed. In this day and age when we have so little accountability, it was thrilling to watch a dishonest person eviscerated on the witness stand during cross-examination due to their lack of integrity and vengeful actions. Needless to say, Jody was so compelling in the courtroom that the case was dismissed without her client (our side) ever needing to testify. Jody brought this 4-month nightmare our family was living, to an end! If you are in need of a family law attorney, you should contact Usow Law. If you are faced with unfair and unjust family-law legal issues you should definitely contact Usow Law. If you don't, the opposing side might. We are forever grateful for Jody Usow!
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04 Mar, 2024 by Jerrell
I initially hired Jody to assist with a temporary restraining order case I was facing where my child’s mother over exaggerated an argument and lied to police to get the TRO. Jody stepped in last minute literally the day before, heard my story, met me at court and represented me for the hearing. The TRO was granted but Jody being the realist she is, let me know going into the hearing that it would likely be granted and why. Even then I appreciated her honesty and willingness to represent me on such short notice. After the TRO hearing my child’s mother decided she did not want me to see him so I continued to work with Jody with the goal of getting 50/50 custody and placement. Jody has proven to be a beast in the court room at every hearing we’ve had. She is very professional, down to earth, respected by the court and she knows her stuff! Her assistant Nick is just as awesome! We all worked together to accomplish the end goal and they were both very professional, nonjudgmental, and willing to educate me every step of the way. Nick even took the time to call and find out officers were in office, and ride his bicycle to the district to serve them for a court hearing the next day because they had not been able to be reached or served. I enjoyed working with Jody and her staff especially with this all being new to me, she would always answer my very long emails or phone calls in a timely manner, she worked with my family members/friends who were helping me with testifying or confirming information, and she understood how important it was to me to be apart of my sons life and have him be apart of my family and his siblings lives. She took time to educate me on what was happening throughout the entire custody battle and was patient with me when I did not do my part in a timely manner. At the end of my case, I got everything I wanted 50/50 placement and custody, even with the mother having representation and even with the TRO in place- which was a blessing in disguise because Jody fought for the mother and I to have court ordered communication through Our Family wizard where everything is documented for lawyers or the court to be able to access with no way for parents to delete information. Jody has been a huge blessing to me and my family and was worth every penny! Even after my case closed she followed up, gave me great advice and encouraged me to reach out to her if needed. I highly highly recommend and she will be the first name I give to anyone going through any family court disputes.
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29 Jul, 2020 by Barbara
Attorney Harrington's services were very professional. He guided us through the entire process without being stressed out.
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13 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
I guess in any case, getting the results you expected is an excellent way to rate your lawyer. In my case, Mr. Harrington delivered the expected/desired results. He was always available and kept me up to date. His experience and connections within the system helped in my case. I would recommend him to anybody seeking an experienced lawyer.
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08 Jun, 2020 by Carrie
A very thorough, professional, patient, and compassionate lawyer. Assisted me with a restraining order issue in family court.
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10 Jan, 2021 by Michelle
She is a terrific lawyer for anyone. She is very easy to talk with and explains throughly the process and whats going on. You can get ahold of her with simplest of questions and you do not feel like you are intrusive. You feel confident andencouraged by her representation. We are so glad we picked her for my representation.
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02 Dec, 2020 by Debra
My son needed a good lawyer so he found MRS RITTERS who went in the court room and handled her business my son will be home in 6months so whatever your case is and you need a paid lawyer I highly recommend her ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ She the best
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01 Dec, 2020 by Tremaine
Allison did exactly what she said she was going to do for my case! By far the best of the best! I wound recommend her to anyone.
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09 Jan, 2024 by Laura
Lauren came prepared with the information needed to help me get through a rough spot in post-divorce proceedings. Even when I lost my cool, she remained poised and focused on getting the best possible outcome for me. She was always on time and ready for the work at hand. Her representation was solid and spot on for what was needed, and I appreciated having her in my corner.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Art
I recently had the pleasure of working with Lauren for a custody case regarding my daughter. As a father seeking rights, the situation was inherently complex, but Lauren navigated it with utmost professionalism and expertise. She was incredibly supportive, providing excellent advice and guidance throughout the entire process. Her timely and wise counsel made a significant difference, leading to a satisfactory outcome that honored my father's rights. I am deeply grateful for Lauren's dedication and would highly recommend her legal services to anyone facing similar challenges.
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10 Dec, 2020 by Kim
I hired Lauren after researching majority of attorneys in southeastern Wisconsin. I wanted to make sure I had the best lawyer I could find when it came to custody of my daughter. I can’t thank attorney Otte enough for the job she did and I’m extremely happy I found her! She’s incredibly knowledgeable and stands her ground.
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29 Dec, 2009 by Anonymous
Attorney Brittain is an outstanding lawyer. I recommend him if you are looking for a lawyer who will listen to you and fight for you. He took the time to tell me what was going on and how the case would handle. Excellent lawyer. Recommend him to anyone.
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09 Nov, 2009 by Joshua
I've had other lawyers before and nobody compares. Attorney Brittain didn't tell me to take a deal because I would lose. Instead, he listened to me and told me we should fight and go to trial. He did a psycho-drama with me and it was amazing. After the psycho-drama, I understood how he was going to win my trial. He is a fantastic lawyer!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sonja wilson
Conner Helvig five stars. Professional, prompt, courteous.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Mat kuttamparambil
Matthew is a bold strategist that tackles issues head on with the goals of his clients being his utmost priority. I contacted Matthew as soon as I knew I had a hearing (a day prior!) He immediately reached out to me and gave me a consultation. Speaking to Matthew gave me the confidence I needed to hire him to keep my innocence. He immediately took note of my side of the story in full context and told me of what to prepare for in the charging court. Matthew's wit and knowledge was important in getting my case completely dismissed before I was even charged!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shanta hill
Ben is excellent! He is extremely professional and honest. I would recommend him to anyone that is in need of a Criminal Attorney.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Luke j
Mr. Hattley defense strategy was to have be evaluated for competency from the get go. I leave the hospital on Sep 11 for chest pain, which the hospital wouldnt treat me for because I’ve been put on disruptive list or Do not treat list. On Sep 20, 2022 I submit complaints to the DOJ and Washington OIG regarding my healthcare. Then I am violently arrested and tasered in the chest on OCT 10. I communicated to him several times to request the hospital videos of me being struck in the forehead by police officer while handcuffed with two officer behind me while I’m cooperating .He didn’t follow through and those videos were lost. I requested in person and through email for him to secure the body cam footage of my arrest that happen in West Allis. It took him nearly six months to attain those. He watched the videos with me of the west Allis police using extreme unnecessarily force including one officer choking me with two hands in the hospital bed. My thumb was broken and I had bloody wrists, and a burn mark on my ankle from wear a taser was held. And promised me that this will all go away. The West Allis Police wrote multiple false charges and those body cam videos show clear and concise evidence of their crimes. He then gave me the body cam footage on a flash drive which I watched with my wife. My wife an MPS teacher was hit by a car on 3 different occasions and our apartment was broken into during the trial. Mr. Hartley didn’t fight for me or justice in the courtroom he only saw me as number and disabled veteran and that was his defense strategy. He promised me that this would all go away however he ran away and wouldn’t even help me file an excessive force complaint but he did get the case dismissed due to incompetence and further silenced me to not allow me to testify. The United States Army has now violated all of my civil and Human rights.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Rhonda anita
Wow! Reading through the reviews I wondered if it was my son posting because many sound like our experience. You either trust her or you don’t! We had a ton of questions and she did answer all of them. We bumped heads sometimes as a mother you can get anxious during something as serious as intentional homicide. Nettie won this self defense trial for my son who was facing life in prison now he has life to be who he is. Nettie listens and she partners with the defendant in preparing for trial. Well worth every dime. Her response time is even more remarkable than what I hear from others who have hired an attorney. I see Super Lawyer in her near future. Thank you Nettie for seeing and fighting for the truth to be heard. Chris assisted like a champ. These two are a quiet storm. Dynamic duo….
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02 Aug, 2024 by Calvin henry
Nettie Rauch is heaven sent!!!! I went to court today 8/2/24 for self defense case and Attorney Rauch handled my case professionally and she really cared about what happened to me. We Won my Case and I thank God for Attorney Rauch 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 I HIGHLY AND I MEAN HIGHLY recommend Attorney Rauch!!! Thank you So Much!!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sonja wilson
Conner Helvig five stars. Professional, prompt, courteous.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Mat kuttamparambil
Matthew is a bold strategist that tackles issues head on with the goals of his clients being his utmost priority. I contacted Matthew as soon as I knew I had a hearing (a day prior!) He immediately reached out to me and gave me a consultation. Speaking to Matthew gave me the confidence I needed to hire him to keep my innocence. He immediately took note of my side of the story in full context and told me of what to prepare for in the charging court. Matthew's wit and knowledge was important in getting my case completely dismissed before I was even charged!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Shanta hill
Ben is excellent! He is extremely professional and honest. I would recommend him to anyone that is in need of a Criminal Attorney.
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14 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
This was my attorney appointed to me by the courts. I could not get in contact with him to go over my case. We only spoke a for a few minutes before I would see the judge. Very rude each time. He seemed to be best buddy’s with the District Attorney, always laughing and talking with them. I asked the Judge if he could be removed from my case and explained why. The judge granted my request and he was removed.
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18 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
After two court appearances he moved quickly to have me enter a plea. Asked me when I would be ready to go to jail when I told him things were moving too quickly, i felt rushed to take a plea. No criminal background but facing misdemeanor charge. I never received copy of criminal complaint or review of the discovery. I assumed in his professional experience he would provide those to me. I asked to judge to withdraw him as counsel after he raised his voice at me before court. I watched another client of his complain to their family about his tactics. Its been 8 days since court and He has yet to provide my file to public defenders office or myself so I can obtain new counsel before court in 6 days. Poor defense attorney. Maybe a defense for criminal law isn't the best fit.
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21 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
I would not recommend Mr patrick wait for your attorney let me say the money you spend for attorney is what you will receive so dont expect anything on your case to be done right or done at all !!! After my case from him practically nothing i still got Bolth charges on me and I had no criminal background on me I expected to least 1 charge dropped from destruction property and domestic and the charges were from my wife but she wanted to drop all them but I didn't expect to get Bolth charges dropped in wisconsin. Patrick wait told me he talked to D.A and told me I will be charged with only destruction property with I agreed to !!! We went to court (( they charged me with Bolth )) I almost went to jail with no criminal record!!! Later months later when I called patrick wait the attorney for questions on probation HE SHOUTED ON PHONE and started swearing at me and said why should I help you cause I made this review on him. Don't use this attorney he is pointed out any from garentee funds from the state you are better off getting your own attorney I had to pay 2 attorneys to get my job done.
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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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