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30 Mar, 2024 by Shawn
When I hired Tim I was looking a serious charges. He did everything to make sure I understood what was going on with my case at all times and when had any questions or concerns I never had a problem getting ahold of Tim. After a very long year we Ultimately went to trial where Tim was amazing and fought for me to be found not guilty on all charges. Without a doubt the best choice I could have made and I will never forget what he did for me.....THANK YOU TIM!!!
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29 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Hounded the prosecutor to make for a super speedy dismissal.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Matthew
I had the privilege of working with Tim Note as my criminal attorney, and I cannot express enough how grateful I am for his exceptional legal representation. From the moment I first consulted with Tim, I knew I was in capable hands.
Tim's deep knowledge of criminal law and his dedication to his clients are truly commendable. He left no stone unturned in building a strong defense for my case. His attention to detail, thorough research, and strategic approach were instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome.
What sets Tim apart is not just his legal expertise, but also his genuine compassion and understanding. He took the time to listen to my concerns, address my questions, and provide reassurance throughout a challenging legal process. His clear communication and guidance made me feel empowered and informed every step of the way.
Tim's professionalism and commitment to securing the best possible result for his clients are evident in every aspect of his work. He fought tirelessly on my behalf, and I could not have asked for a more dedicated advocate.
Thanks to Tim Note's legal prowess and unwavering support, my case was resolved successfully. I highly recommend Tim to anyone seeking a top-notch criminal attorney who goes above and beyond for their clients. He is not just an excellent lawyer but also a true advocate for justice.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
I recommend Mark Cassel highly. I hired Mark for a difficult divorce. Mark and his team did an outstanding job in a dedicated, and professional manner. Mark thinks and works very hard for his clients. Highly recommended.
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17 May, 2024 by Darren
I had the pleasure of working with Mark Cassell from Twyford Law Office. As soon as I started working with Mark he made sure everything I needed to get my life back was his priority. He got my apartment back within the first couple of weeks of working with him when prior to that I was out of my apartment for several months. He was very approachable and answered all my questions easily. His whole team communicated perfectly to me and sent me copies of everything. They responded to my emails and questions fast. they always made me feel like they had my back.
Mark is phenomenal when he is talking with prosecutor and Judge he holds himself in a very professional manner. I couldn't recommend him and his team enough.
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02 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Mark was very knowledgeable in a way that worked to my advantage. He was very empathic and calm, supportive, and swift in a difficult time. His paralegal and staff were helpful and courteous, too. Highly recommend.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Donjp68
i recently wrote the review regarding "If you don't care about your kids' i feel I made a mistake. When i contacted Ben about getting some documents regarding this case, he asked if he could make things right, without me asking. I feel my emotions may have clouded my judgement. I am now very ill and on chemo and have no money, that didn't matter to Ben and Jason, they are truly good people with a job that is full of emotions, i personalty thank and apologize to both of these gentlemen. and i would recommend them anytime. Criminal of Family, they will tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear, and this is great. Call anytime for reference 509-216-5691
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11 Nov, 2021 by Michael
Ben represented me (a man) in my divorce (with multiple kids.) My wife had filed and included many horrible allegations which led me to have almost no time with the kids on our temporary parenting plan. Ben picked up the case (which my first attorney had done a poor job on.) He knew exactly what to do to get the end result I wanted. I had to suck it up and it wasn't an instant fix but in the end he rocked my wife's world in court and the record was set straight by his courtroom skills. It seemed at times throughout the case that he was not attentive to my little daily concerns, but I think he simply puts focus where it really counts and if I had trusted him more I would have saved some worry and stress. I read that you will never regret hiring an attorney that you can't afford when it comes to fighting for your kids. After trying to go the cheap route I bit the bullet and I'm so glad I did. Worth every thousand spent and then some. Ben was brutally honest with me and didn't sell me anything he wasn't able to deliver. He was spot on with every estimation he had regarding the case while letting me know that anything can happen. I very highly recommend him if you have the ability to trust him and not expect him to get caught up in every little daily drama you throw his way. Again, he put attention and detail where it really counted and the results were what mattered in the end.
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24 Jun, 2021 by Chris
Ben is an amazing attorney. He helped my wife and I in a custody battle with my ex. His professionalism and ethics are the highest I have ever seen. Despite the other side trying to play dirty, he maintained his ethical and professional demeanor and prevailed every time. My being out of state during all of the battles was scary, but Ben made sure everything was done for my best interest and the best interest of the kids. I wouldn't recommend any other attorney in Spokane.
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07 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I was married to a narcissist and if you know, you know..... If you dont know what a narcissist is, then just imagine going against a Devil with clothes on and they'll lie and manipulate EVERYONE to turn the tables and make the victim look like the perpetrator and make themselves look like a victim. FIRST OF ALL, Kelsey is VERY experienced in this type of person and court case. So, if you are worried about what will go down on your case in court, Kelsey will far exceed your expectations of what a great attorney can do for you. If you're up against a wolf in sheeps clothing and you know they'll definitely play dirty in court, Kelsey will turn out to be your dream come true in the midst of a living nightmare and will do the final mic drop for you.
Kelsey took charge and kept my exs expensive attorney from burning our son and I out of receiving justice. She spotted the lies & manipulation and pointed them out immediately to the judge in a way he finally understood.
Kelsey knows the law like the back of her hand and I was so tickled watching and listening to her put my ex and his attorney in their place FINALLY. One time she even respectfully corrected the judge because she KNOWS the law and is fearless, like any attorney fighting for your childs life SHOULD be!
I honestly feel that my judge sided with the dad somewhat in this case and because I didnt have evidence of physical abuse in court prior to the evidence of verbal, financial and other types of proof of abuse was disregarded and the judge treated our case like I had simply changed my mind about my husband one day and chose to leave instead of what ACTUALLY happened. So I felt like the judge was looking for a way to grant my ex equal parenting time but Kelsey didnt put up with any of it. I was honestly tickled by the way she addressed my ex and his attorneys accusations against me. She told the judge that he was just hurling accusations at the proverbial wall hoping they'd stick lol
I got such a kick out of watching her at work and the other attorney was and is considered top 5 in Spokane. So, I was blessed to have Kelsey advocate for me.
At one point, I told her that she was good at her job and she humbly grinned and said that law runs in her family and that her dad was an attorney and she LOVES being one and THAT is key when you are searching for an attorney. Attorneys like Kelsey one in a million and she is always thinking about your case just as much as you, if not more. You will LOVE having Kelsey on your side. I really do believe she has a gift. She knows the law by heart (shes like a walking law library calculator lol).
Kelsey is also kind and patient and makes you feel HEARD which is also rare in family law court rooms. She will calm you with her confidence. Kelsey Kittleson is the best there is!
Hi Kelsey!
I cant wait to see the great reviews start racking up for you. You definitely deserved mine!
Thank you again! xoxo ilysm❤️
Shashana
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24 Mar, 2016 by Rajona
Kelsey Kittleson is highly intelligent and very kind! She listens patiently, and returns with productive questions to clarify the point while considering what should be done. She is concise and works swiftly. I appreciate all of the timely advise and direction I received through our time spent together. I highly recommend working with Ms. Kittleson, if ever in need of a custody attorney.
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12 Jan, 2023 by Erin
Fantastic attorney and his paralegal is also amazing. I got exactly the outcome I wanted and the entire office was incredibly responsive no matter how insignificant or silly my question and worries were. Highly professional and responsive office.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Nori
There is no divorce that is quick and easy, but Gabrielle guided me through this difficult process to make it as smooth as possible. She responded to my questions quickly, leaving me with the secured feeling that I was in capable and efficient hands. While I greatly trust in her legal prowess, she was also kind and compassionate with me. I would recommend her highly.
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07 Sep, 2024 by Marshal d
I was arrested and released for wreckless driving driving home from work after another driver tboned me when they ran a red light. The Officer saw burnout marks and incorrectly assumed they were brake marks from my vehicle. Being quite upset about this incident, I searched for a laywer. First two I tried contacting didn't ever give me a call back but I was quickly reached out to by note and kidd. After meeting with Jacob Smith I decided to retain him as my attorney. Jake very helpful with any questions I had and was very easy to reach out too. Anytime I had to leave a message he was quick to reach back out to me. Jake worked well and was able to get the Charges against me dismissed and the case dropped. Without that looming over my head anymore I can finally move on past that. If I ever find myself in need of legal help again, he will be my first call. Very satisfied retaining Jake.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jackie n
Tim did a great job representing my Grandson. I feel that he is highly respected among his peers based on various interactions I witnessed. I’d highly recommend him.
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19 Aug, 2024 by Tammy jones
Highly recommend. My situation was taken care of in 3 days. Jake took the time to explain all of my options. Very personable and professional. Very thorough and hardworking. Very happy with his services!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Donny nevdahl
Very professional office all the way around. I would highly recommend John as he fought hard for me on my case.
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18 Sep, 2024 by Fallah lamie
I was well represented by Schwab Law firm, and my criminal case of a DUI was immediately dropped after hearing!
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17 Sep, 2024 by Jason pesikan
Couldn’t have been a more seamless experience, from start to finish. Fast, efficient, and very responsive, even with limited time befor the hearing. Most lawyers charge an arm and a leg, yet even cost was excellent. Highly recommend this team if you’re ever in need of some representation!
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22 Oct, 2024 by J p
Dewey Cheatem and Howe…
Worst law firm in the country not just the state. Convinced me to accept a deal (for significantly less than they had originally advised I settle for and well below their “do not accept less than” prep talk) in mediation assuring me I would not be billed further and opposing attorney would handle all closing paperwork. Hen billed me again saying he didn’t do it right, then when I objected and reminded them of what was said, they doubled the bill and sent it again. ANYONE BUT THIS LAW FIRM, I was warned about them but unfortunately was too far in to back out and hire someone else. Any time I confronted them about anything they just threaten to withdraw and keep your money.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Vasily rotari
Don’t recommend just collected my information saying will call back called back in a 5 days and said that they are busy and would not be available.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Ronnie uzeta (skip)
An outstanding team to work with! They are incredibly responsive. The staff is not only professional but also genuinely friendly, making every interaction pleasant. Highly recommend their services!
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22 Oct, 2024 by J p
Dewey Cheatem and Howe…
Worst law firm in the country not just the state. Convinced me to accept a deal (for significantly less than they had originally advised I settle for and well below their “do not accept less than” prep talk) in mediation assuring me I would not be billed further and opposing attorney would handle all closing paperwork. Hen billed me again saying he didn’t do it right, then when I objected and reminded them of what was said, they doubled the bill and sent it again. ANYONE BUT THIS LAW FIRM, I was warned about them but unfortunately was too far in to back out and hire someone else. Any time I confronted them about anything they just threaten to withdraw and keep your money.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Vasily rotari
Don’t recommend just collected my information saying will call back called back in a 5 days and said that they are busy and would not be available.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Ronnie uzeta (skip)
An outstanding team to work with! They are incredibly responsive. The staff is not only professional but also genuinely friendly, making every interaction pleasant. Highly recommend their services!
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11 Aug, 2024 by Kyle osborn
Diane was professional and courteous, and quite expensive. But she is worth it. She helped me keep my cool through the divorce process. Explained everything in detail and made herself available for many phone calls, which a normal person would try to limit. 😆 My only regret was being Pro Se in the begging of my divorce and not hiring her sooner. I may not have “won” in court, but she did help me mediate instead of going through a potentially expensive trial, which would have irreparably damaged my business. Thank you Diane, for all your help. I’ll definitely use your services again in the future.
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27 Apr, 2023 by Jason cokley
Diane was absolutely outstanding from day one and gave me step by step what was going to happen and had a plan in case it didn’t go that way. Whenever I called she was always available and I was in a completely different state!! Money well spent and she’s a straight shooter which was the best thing about our attorney/client relationship
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09 Apr, 2023 by Sheila brown miller
Unprofessional. Don't waste your time. They made me wait two weeks for an appointment then cancelled at the last minute. Plenty of larger firms with more resources to choose from in Washington. You get what you pay for and this firm is cheap. Keep that in mind, that price comes at a cost like time wasted.
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25 Aug, 2024 by C j
Dallas, Erek and his team were excellent. I had a case that was a misdemeanor and they had it reduced to a simple traffic infraction. That's almost unheard of. In fact, it saved my career. I believe 1% of cases like mine reach a Neg 2, so this is a huge win. If you're looking for a team of exceptional attorneys then Cooney Law is going to be your best option.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Kyle osborn
Some of the most deceitful and dishonest and anti-God Liberal attornies I have ever met. Who represent everything that is wrong with America. Completely lied in court, allowed their clients to give false testimonies repeatedly against a good Christian Father and real honorable man. If you are Republican or Christian or Jewish or Muslim or Buddhist… keep on shopping, they honor very few of the 10 Commandments or Precepts.
Interesting that you think you won something. So to represent liars and perjurers, and help to take away the opposing party’s children, and their gun rights… that’s you winning Cooney? You have “won” something? What is it? Maybe you win a one-way ticket to Hell for intentionally hurting a Man of faith who works for Jesus Christ. Looks like, you didn’t win ALL the cases. 😆
(3) of your trolls couldn’t put Humpty dumpty back together… You have law degrees? I hope she did not pay you for this? She never will now. I would’ve fired you yesterday for sure. She admitted to committing a felony gun violation in her written Testimony and FOUR of you didn’t see that! 😂👌🏼 Oh yah, good work Cooney!
Was that last attorney driving down the road while he represented her in court?! Zoom is so cool right? That was crazy. Taking a Court Zoom Call while driving, super professional. I am sure he represented her to the best of his ability. LMfAO 🤣
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09 Jul, 2024 by Rupert winslow
This office deserves all 5 stars, if not more. If there is a problem that you need solved in court, the amount of knowledge about litigation and the next steps of law and what to come is never an issue with this office. They take action and make everything look easy. I would personally like to leave a 5 star for attorney Meagan Bennett and her paralegal. very knowledgeable and a great team. THANK YOU!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Cary rux
We recently asked Robert to review a contract. His advice and approval was exactly what we needed. Robert was prompt, professional and extremely helpful. We have enjoyed working with him so far and this latest experience has only further extended our confidence in him and his work. He is a trusted advisor and a key part of our team. We would highly recommend Robert.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Brenda fowler
Called to ask if this attorney handled the type of issue we needed him for. What a joke. He interrupted me and hung up before I had a chance to even say good bye at the end of the call. A very sad little man.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Katelyn fowler
Called to ask him about his services and if they applied to an issue I was having so I could potentially hire him, and he wouldn’t even say what his services were for and he hung up on me. Extremely rude. Don’t do business with him. Look somewhere else.
Edit: You didn’t even give us the time to ask what your services were. From the information I’ve gathered it sounds like they would’ve applied to our problem but you just lost a potential client. Have the day you deserve.
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10 Aug, 2024 by Mellisa johnson
Gina and her associates know well what they’re doing. Trust them and trust the process, they know the way. Personally, I entered into the divorce process lost, scared, and intimidated, and at the end of my process felt supported, empowered, and relieved. I felt that my child’s and my best interest was always at the forefront thru the entire process, my gratitude is immeasurable for their considerations. Divorce sucks, and with the right support network, it sucks a little less. Thank you, Gina, you will always have a special place in my heart!
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19 Jun, 2024 by Kyle amonson
I was served with an outlandish protection order making very wild claims months after my ex-wife and I had divorced. The news was shocking to me and I only had 10 days to find an attorney to represent me. The original temporary order held little information. Gina agreed to represent me, was upfront about cost and options. She allowed me to mail bomb her office with all the potential texts, communication and support documents I had. She was able to sift through the piles of information and to suss out what was useful and not useful in my defense.
More than that she was able to identify the true cause of the problem, a desire to change the parenting plan for support money. I was the primary parent and my ex tried a desperate act.
Gina worked with my ex-wife's attorney to find a new balance to find a solution to make the time lost with the kids and the financial balance my ex-wife was seeking. She had a heart to make the case less difficult on the children and me. My ex-wife did not agree to any of the terms. And still wanted her day in court.
Gina danced circles around the plaintiff, expertly wielding the information and the understanding of a reasonable person's standards. The case was ultimately thrown out. Gina even followed up with me personally to ensure that I was ok.
I recommend Gina, especially to anyone who really is in a place where they know they are being wronged, and are willing to let their attorney be the expert on what is reasonable.
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11 Feb, 2024 by Pj troxell
Miss Castello was able to help us out on very short notice. She cares. We would definitely use her again and recommend.
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08 Jun, 2018 by Jo
Dave Hearrean is the lowliest attorney around. He represented a family member and the Judge told us we needed to review our options as he was never prepared. He was afraid of the prosecutor and had a panic attack or something that looked like it. He claimed to be a fierce bulldog in the court room but was actually a whimpering little puppy. He called all the family and told us all different stories. He is a LIAR and a CHEAT. The only phone call he returned was for wanting more money. He was a useless defender and he acted like his client was the problem. He never discussed issues with his client just did or not did do what he wanted. Beware of this sly talking, shaking (he can’t even write, it’s unreadable – he trembles almost constantly), and he is a nasty smelling chain smoker. We do NOT recommend him to anyone!!! He should not be licensed to practice law anywhere.
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04 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr Hearrean is an awful attorney. He represented my son and we fired him half way through the process. He never returned any of our calls and after paying him the initial retainer treated us as a burden. I would not recommend him to anyone! Beware of this man he is a lier and a bad attorney!
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09 Feb, 2014 by Nick
Dave defended me on multiple cases.he got me out of everything. I was a bad person at one point in life but Dave inspired me to change my life and I'm proud to say today I work in the field of helping people in clean and sober living environment and I owe it to Dave giving me a second third fourth and fifth chance at life.I worked with many other attorneys and none came close to the compassion and caring Dave has
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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:
-
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.
