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18 Feb, 2025 by Margaret shirley
I would highly recommend Lauren Merritt along with her Paralegal and Secretary!! They were all very professional and efficient in handling the Estate of my husband!!
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14 Jan, 2025 by Connie williams
I found Mrs. Merritt via the internet as I am out of state. From the first contact on I felt very comfortable and taken care of during a difficult time of the loss if my husband. She was very personable and very knowledgeable. She explained the probate process very well and was able to complete it in the most efficient and cost effective manner. A special thank you also to her secretary Jodi Ennis who was so easy to get s hold off, very responsive to any inquiry and very pleasant to deal with.
I highly recommend Lauren Merritt’s firm!!
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05 Jan, 2025 by Amber b
Lauren and her team are absolutely amazing to work with. They are always kind, helpful, and quick to go above and beyond in every way to ensure my cases are handled with care. If I could give 10 stars I absolutely would!
Thank you, Lauren, for being a top notch attorney that we can depend on. My family is blessed to work with you!
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01 Nov, 2024 by Michael santana
I hired Valerie Prevatte to represent me with an injunction case against me in Santa Rosa County. The best decision I could have ever made and I knew she was the attorney I wanted to represent me since we originally spoke. Valerie took the time to explain to me what needed to be done, so she can bestrepresent me. She had the best communication, professionalism and expertise. I was nervous and quite frankly expected the worst, but Valerie Prevatte prepared me very well before our hearing. The day of the court case Valerie Prevatte fought for me with great passion through the entire hearing. The outcome was in my favor and the injunction was dismissed based on a lot of inconsistency from the other party. Do not ever hesitate to contact and hire Valerie Prevatte. She’s the best attorney and the right attorney for you. I absolutely recommend her!!! Thank you for Valerie!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I am beyond thankful for Valerie! Upon my first call to her office, to our first meeting where her guidance was invaluable, to meeting with my daughter and I to prep for trial, to being prepared and dominating in the court room, to setting up the case for a win on appeal if needed, to referring me onto an excellent appellate attorney should that come to surface, Valerie was professional, reachable, compassionate and simply amazing. Highly recommend her!
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24 Jun, 2024 by Thomas
Had some specific questions which needed addressed and she was very helpful and informative and good knowledge and suggestions on how we needed to move forward and what best options for desired outcome would be. She didn’t make me feel rushed and was patient and understanding. Would not hesitate in utilizing her services.
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5.0
13 Reviews
4.6
101 Reviews
07 Jan, 2025 by Hossain shahriar
Attorney Shelly handled my complicated case with precise details and took great effort to discover the relevant facts, which led to the best possible outcome wirhin short time. I would definitely recommend Shelley for anyone looking for representation dealing with family/DV/injunction related matters.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Hossain
Attorney Shelly handled my complicated case with precise details and took great effort to discover the relevant facts, which led to the best possible outcome within short time. I would definitely recommend Shelley for anyone looking for representation dealing with family/DV/injunction related matters.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Melissa riley
I don’t write many reviews, but when I do, I have reason to. I’ll first start by saying I’ve never met a lawyer so honestly forthcoming with information. I first retained him to represent my boyfriend back in 2005. He did as he said he would. The 2nd time, was for a relative. He would not take my money or let me retain him. He was straight forward and told me an attorney was unnecessary. I was a bit nervous, but he was 100% accurate. The 3rd time, was for myself. He had the bogus charges dropped, as promised. The last time I hired him was for a friend just a few months ago. Once again, he did as promised. Randy is an amazing criminal attorney. Those of you that gave him 1 star, shame on you! I’m sure there’s more to the story. He is the only attorney I’ll ever hire, though I’m hoping I won’t need his remarkable services a 5th time. Randy, Amanda, and everyone else in his practice, thank you for all that you do! You are incredible and it does not go unnoticed!
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21 Feb, 2025 by Twila marlowe
As with most things you need a lawyer for, I was ridden with anxiety and fear. After my first appointment i felt as if I could get through my situation and had someone who would listen and fight for me. Thank you so much !
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30 Dec, 2024 by Phil
Jim went above and beyond by meeting with me urgently at night for our first consultation and immediately getting to work on my case that same evening—a level of dedication you don’t see often. He’s incredibly personable, highly organized, and genuinely cares about his clients. It’s clear he’ll go the extra mile to get the job done.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Doyle
Jim Barnes is an exceptional criminal defense attorney. From the moment I contacted him, he was professional, attentive, and truly invested in my case. He explained everything clearly and made sure I understood my options, which put me at ease during a very stressful time. His expertise and dedication were evident every step of the way, and the results exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend Jim to anyone in need of a skilled and reliable defense attorney.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Caroline
Mr. Fisher and staff were amazing to work with. They took my stressful situation and made it easy to navigate. I am thankful to have had them along my journey.
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18 Aug, 2024 by Susan
Mr. Fisher is a phenomenal attorney. I have been battling with my ex-husband for YEARS in regards to custody of my two boys, and the previous attorneys I have hired did little to nothing to help our situation. My ex-husband informed me he was intending on relocating due to military orders, and he was going to try to take our two boys with him. I called Mr. Fisher and not only did he lend a sympathetic ear, but he hit the ground running with our case. He is extremely patient, knowledgeable, disciplined, and strategic. Where the opposing party's attorney was focused on trying to be aggressive and attack me and my position, Mr. Fisher was calm and collected, caught every little detail and focused on what was in the best interest of the children. Needless to say, we won our case (pretty flawlessly, as there was nothing in favor of the father) and my children are (happily) staying here with me. I cannot be more thankful to him and his amazing team!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Steven
I’m very thankful to the Lord for leading me to Brad Fisher and his wonderful staff. They definitely take your needs very seriously and in helping you to the best of their ability. So yes, I strongly recommend Brad Fisher and his wonderful staff in helping you with legal matters.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Lindy
Due to an arduous teaching schedule as a Professor of Law, for a while Carolyn was a “hidden gem,” for those fortunate enough to find her. As an honest and true advocate for her clients, she puts “skin on “ the definition of integrity.
A professional, passionate, and caring attorney whose shadow embellishes excellent, quality services. Highly recommended! My only hope for you is that you are fortunate enough to hire her, the FIRST time. You WILL be represented with excellence, and posting your own review on this page soon!
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27 Apr, 2023 by Mickey & beverly
Carolyn is extremely conscientious and professional. She is caring and courteous. We would certainly use her again if the need for an attorney arises. Thank you Carolyn for all of your help.
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21 Jul, 2022 by Amanda
Wow. Carolyn has knocked my socks off since hiring her. She is very involved with learning every aspect of my case. Her communication is incredibly timely, specific, and often. Within the first 48 hours of hiring her, I truly felt I had someone on my side, fighting for me and my kids, concerned about our well-being, and the heavy weight I'd been carrying for so long was lifted off of me as Carolyn gracefully took it upon herself. Just amazed at how that felt. I had hired an attorney prior to Carolyn but was making very little progress and I didn't know what was going on. In the first 48 hours with Carolyn, I was more informed, felt confident, experienced peace, and had a clear understanding of my case than I did in the first 48 days with the previous Attorney. Everyone should have a Carolyn on their side, fighting for them and with them. I am truly Blessed. Thank You Carolyn!
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05 Apr, 2022 by Hermie
I've hired Nicole as my divorce lawyer in August 2021 and my divorce was finalized in February 2022. This lawyer and her staff are amazing! My questions and emails were answered quickly. I'm also happy with my settlements. Thank you Nicole!!!
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11 Aug, 2021 by Matthew
I’m a physician with a high level government security clearance. My spouse filed for divorce and initiated a DVI as a means of gaining an advantage in the divorce proceedings. This removed me from the marital home, removed access to my son, and jeopardized my career, security clearance, and reputation. After two months of having a lawyer who was inactive, I hired Nicole and her team. They quickly reestablished my access to the home and won my DVI case easily. I was able to walk away from the DVI case with access to my son and maintain my security clearance and career without issue. Later Nicole and her team obtained an expeditious and favorable outcome for me in mediation. Additionally, Nicole and her team established good rapport with me during the tense moments during the DVI and divorce process making the hard times of divorce as comfortable as possible. During the process, I have also recommended friends and colleagues who have also seemed to have favorable outcomes so far. I highly recommend the Ferry team for any family legal matters.
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20 Feb, 2021 by Brad
Nicole and her paralegal team have been a huge support to me over the two-year period from the time my ex and I decided to file to mailing my final alimony check. Filing for divorce while being stationed overseas (military service) is never easy, but Nicole and her team made it about as easy as one could possibly make it. Despite never meeting her or her team face to face due to my physical distance, I always felt like I had a team in my corner. Either Nicole or her team was quick to respond (usually within the day, or close to one day was the average), and they were able to work with me to set up times to have phone conversations. On the day of my deposition/mediation, Nicole was on time, ready to have me dial-in. She made great recommendations on when to stand firm and when I need to make some concessions. Even after the divorce was finalized, Nicole continued to work with me to ensure all elements of the divorce decree were adhered to by both parties.
While I hope that the issues with the divorce are finally over with and I can move on, I know that if something ever comes back up, I will have a strong team and lawyer who I can rely on.
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05 Jul, 2024 by Supreme11505
Thanks to you and your whole team for everything you've done for me throughout this whole process! When we started, to me, my goals looked far fetched and maybe even unattainable. With you and your team's patience, expertise, and professionalism, sprinkled with a little Divine Intervention at times, we accomplished every single one of those goals. I can't thank you enough. I have my son here with me and he isn't just surviving. He's thriving. People always ask me, "Do you have sole custody of him? You got that through COURT?! How in the world did you pull that off?!" I know I have God, you, and your team to thank for that gift. Again thank you so much. All of you.
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13 Oct, 2022 by Jim
I am so impressed by Autumn and her abilities. When I hired her, I was impressed with her direct communication and no nonsense style. Working with her was easy because she is organized. In court, I was very impressed with her memory on very small details and her focus. She is motivated to win! I highly recommend.
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13 Aug, 2022 by Denham
Autumn handled my divorce. She was fast and was able to solve some hard problems that I thought would make our divorce expensive. But she knew how our judge liked things and worked a lot with the attorney on the other side so there were no delays. She used her experience to get to the meat of the case and it was over as quickly as it could be. She didn’t milk me for money and she was worth the money I did have to spend.
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21 Oct, 2024 by Jordan
The Virga Law-firm handled my case with professionalism! They helped me secure sole custody of my son, getting him out of an unsafe toxic situation. I highly recommend them especially if you know your child’s safety is better off with you.
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28 May, 2024 by Amaryllis
Mr Lohr got my name changed for me, I've been trying to do that for 20 years (thank you)! His associate (Keary) was also phenomenal in the process. Stayed up to date with everything going on in their office. There was no confusion, every thing is straight forward.
He is also a divorce lawyer, so he will be rehired! I highly recommend him.
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08 May, 2024 by Matthew
David Lohr took my case with no hesitation. I am a forward deployed service member stationed in Japan and I was able to effectively communicate with David and his Legal team at the Virga Law Firm to not only get divorced but come out on top. David Lohr went to work right away and really understands not only civil matters but also how the military operates and I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer to fight for me. If you need legal representation to not delay, call David Lohr now!
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30 Oct, 2024 by Piper summers
Michelle is simply exceptional. There’s no doubt that her diplomacy and professionalism were the needed keys to secure the positive outcome we received. Our family will be forever grateful for her services.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Candice carter
We couldn’t have had a better attorney, Michelle was so easy to work with, guided us through the whole process of our step parent adoption case, she was very responsive when we had questions and took the time to educate us on some of the legal aspects in a manner that we could understand. Michelle is very knowledgeable and professional.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Ginny laborde
Ms Nguyen was absolutely amazing! She was always willing to answer my questions or further explain things when I was confused. She is very kind and truly cares for her clients and their well being! I would 10/10 recommend her to anyone!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Justin murphy
Horrible communication skills. Zero confidence. And took my money without proper representation and legal advice. Do not recommend if you love your kid's I wouldn't use this attorney. Debbi is a horrible example of a person and attorneys
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21 Sep, 2024 by Dani harris
Very helpful and there for you definitely willing to talk and help you out and point you in the right direction when you need it most! If I need help in the future I know who I’m going to !
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11 Sep, 2024 by Dennis blackmon
I stopped in today to see Mr burns on a dissolution of marriage issue but I wasn’t expected what happened next first of all I just showed up with notice or an appointment some my see that as rude and I slightly agree but I just want to be done with this marriage so as I walk in I was immediately greeted by attorney Steele just as we began talking Mr burns appeared from his office like a super hero I greeted him hello Mr Burns how are you and the greeting was reciprocated so he asked me what was going he invited me to his office I begin to explain to him my situation he then began to give me expert advice on how to handle my situation which was very insightful very down to earth straightforward man I recommend Mr Burns for many reasons after an hour of conversation I realize god he’s human just like me I felt important and get this after showing up to his office unannounced towards the end of our conversation he turned and said you don’t owe me anything infact you can do this yourself I’m not gonna take your money for something you can accomplish on your own I was damn are serious so who wouldn’t want an attorney like James Burns one things for certain he has a client forever just genuine, good people are hard to find but I found one today I plan to keep on my side again Mr Burns ty Dennis Blackmon
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13 Dec, 2012 by Deborah
Attorney Jenkins helped me out in a domestic abuse case involving a minor. He was diligent and accurate with this case. He kept in touch with me constantly answering all questions I asked. Without him justice would have not been done. If your looking for a great attorney - he is your man. He also followed up with me after the case by sharing resources that would continue to help the minor.
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12 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Was referred to legal services by a friend. Needed an attorney for my minor child in a domestic violence hearing. This was an extremely emotional time. Mr Jenkins was professional, caring, informed and prepared. On our court date, he met us early, sat with us outside the courtroom and made sure all our questions were answered. His follow up was also impressive, returns phones calls and emails in a prompt manner. I would highly recommend this attorney
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02 Dec, 2024 by Daniel fowler
25 Nov, 2024 by Wendy bell
Hands down one of the best law firms in Pensacola! I hired Stephen Holman and his firm for my case. Him and his paralegal Katie have consistently been a step ahead on every issue. They are very hard working, and go a step above to protect your best interests.
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20 Nov, 2024 by Jowad aysheh
26 Jul, 2023 by K
Jack takes his time to review his cases. Those who are unhappy with his representation are those who expect everything to be handed to them. He won't hold your hand throughout the court process, but rest assured, he's got you covered. He takes his job very seriously and has incredible outcomes.
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29 Dec, 2022 by Mike
Sends out spam Mail desperate for clients. His tone was that of some uneducated southern from Alabama but turns out he was some wanna be cop in the military. Very rude and inconsiderate. Don’t use this hack.
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30 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Jack to represent me on a probation violation which was on a failure to register as a sex offender I was looking at 5 years prison I wasn't worried because I know Jack is the best in the Panhandle he beat the case no probation but I didn't go to prison, I have also hired Jack to represent me on a DUI case the cops took my driver's license when they arrested me jack beat the case and I didn't have to apply for a hardship license when it's all said and done I was riding around with my regular driver's license, both case was okaloosa County , I would call Jack Wilkins the modern-day Ben Matlock lawyer .
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17 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Anybody can write anything about anybody here . Disgraceful popularity contest website
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15 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
For the person who claims that doing the footwork on your case will improve your chances of success you are grossly over exaggerating Mr Bayhi's abilities. I have provided every single shred of evidence in a case and after over five months he is still requesting continuances due to lack of time to make any kind of action on the case. Motions are not being filed and requests are not being handled at all not to mention it takes at least a week to get a reply to dozens of voicemails since he can NEVER at any time be reached directly. His obvious confusion in the courtroom has got to be embarrassing. The State Attorneys and the Judges both show their disdain for his performance at nearly every court appearance.
Granted as a public defender there is a huge caseload. But everyone else seems to handle theirs with some type of timeliness and professionalism. Mr. Bayhi is overwhelmed in his position and is not meant to be responsible with the freedom and rights of individuals. It is the duty of the P.D. to DEFEND their clients not simply ask them to sign a plea and then ignore their case until they eventually give in and accept it.
He should try family court or private practice.
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29 Dec, 2012 by Rano
If you had Steve as a lawyer, you had a public defender, which get paid by a yearly salary, not by case. They all have an abundant case load to handle. If you have a case and can't afford a lawyer, its your job to help yourself and your lawyer by doing the footwork. If you would've gone to the law library, instead of playing cards, your outcome would've been different. Steve prevented me from a sentence of 36 years. Which I am very greatful for. He helps those that help themselves, or attempt to. Next time get up off your ass, and work on your case, since you can't afford a private attorney. All Steve needs is a little help from you and he will prove your innocence. Domestic violence? Convicted two times? Pretty much shows what your word is worth. I would say "crappy client" NOT "crappy lawyer"! And to you Steve, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK! HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Hope the tugboat's still hanging on the wall:)
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13 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired this lawyer with high hopes when he was at 1 law firm. Not long after he went to another firm okay that's fine. Then he went to ANOTHER law firm without telling me anything. He promised fake hope to my case the WHOLE time, then when you ask for proof of where you money went for the 2 years he was hired (because we never made it in front of a judge) he sends an uncalled and rude email to me that he's gonna charge me $300 just to respond to my email. Then tells the judge we seen when I tried to get my money back because he did not represent me as he was paid to do he said I was emotionally attached to the case surrounding MY child? No S***! Do NOT hire this person unless you want to waste your time/money. Also, do your research and Google his name to see what kinda citizen he really is.....
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13 Oct, 2024 by Brittany
Takes your money! Goes on vacations, completely ignoring the fact that you just handed him $5,000. Doesn't care about his clients or the cases he takes on. How he became a lawyer? I have no clue. But don't waste your money if you have a case that needs attention.
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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.
