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20 Sep, 2024 by Jenna krammes belknap
13 Sep, 2024 by Toni s
I want to be clear, the 5 stars i chose to grade is specifically for the work of one person only and that’s Chenique Smith! Chenique is the only person in this firm who treated me and my mother with thoughtfulness, professionalism and respect. If the words Cook Law weren’t next to her name i would swear i was dealing with my best friend or a close family member. She definitely made my mother and i feel important. Chenique paid close attention to detail and was timely in her response to our messages while remaining proactive in getting things done, whereas others simply made us feel forgotten. I hope Chenique is paid her worth because she definitely is keeping that office afloat.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Shar-day tolliver
I Saw This Law Firm On T.V. And I Gave Them A Phone Call They Services Was Awesome I Spoke With A Very Respectful Woman Who Took On My Case She Introduced Me To Her Team All Of Them Were Fantastic They Handled My Case Conversation Wise Counsel Was On Point Gathered All Details Stood By Me Now I'm Watching Them Fight For Me I Appreciate This Law Firm I Would Recommend It To Anyone Five Stars All The Way They Are Team Players
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13 Sep, 2024 by Toni s
I want to be clear, the 5 stars i chose to grade is specifically for the work of one person only and that’s Chenique Smith! Chenique is the only person in this firm who treated me and my mother with thoughtfulness, professionalism and respect. If the words Cook Law weren’t next to her name i would swear i was dealing with my best friend or a close family member. She definitely made my mother and i feel important. Chenique paid close attention to detail and was timely in her response to our messages while remaining proactive in getting things done, whereas others simply made us feel forgotten. I hope Chenique is paid her worth because she definitely is keeping that office afloat.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Shar-day tolliver
I Saw This Law Firm On T.V. And I Gave Them A Phone Call They Services Was Awesome I Spoke With A Very Respectful Woman Who Took On My Case She Introduced Me To Her Team All Of Them Were Fantastic They Handled My Case Conversation Wise Counsel Was On Point Gathered All Details Stood By Me Now I'm Watching Them Fight For Me I Appreciate This Law Firm I Would Recommend It To Anyone Five Stars All The Way They Are Team Players
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14 Aug, 2024 by Eden pehota
Let’s be honest. Chenique is such a beautiful soul. I truly felt like I was talking to my big sister. She advocated for me, even though my case was extremely complicated and unique. She made me feel like I’m worth fighting for and genuinely expressed concern to rescue me from this crazy situation I’m in.
When I got off the phone with her, my boyfriend asked me if I was talking to my best friend… I told him that I was talking to the firm that was going to represent me for my accident and he was like… “You guys were talking to each other like you had known each other for years! I thought it was your bestie!”
So much gratitude for this firm and every person I’ve talked to that’s heard me out and helped me along the way. Thank you so much you guys! I feel lighter knowing I’m in the hands of people that I know are going to do their best. 💜💜
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14 Dec, 2022 by Peter
Kyle T. Green, P.L.L.C is a FANTASTIC Lawyer‼ He and his assistants were Very: friendly, helpful, kind, understanding, knowledgeable and professional with me and my case‼ I'm sure that was the reason for the Positive results ‼ He is VERY ethical and affordable ‼ I would recommend him to anyone ‼
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25 Aug, 2022 by Consiglio
I got stuck with this scheister lawyer when I filed a motion for a change of counsel and was met with consent verbal condescending, chastising abuse during our calls. He said, the reason you got me was because, you had issues with other attorneys. My other court appointed attorneys screwed me over by not getting my phone where I had evidence to clear my charges and circumvent me to take a plea. When I realize it would ruin my life, she would not undo the plea which I found too late I could have. Another Lawyer, dumped me off on her investigator who told me the system was not fair. That women got away with ruining your life. How they lost a really strong case. If I did not trust them, to get another team. He says, obvious they did and they withdrew and I got appointed." No, I motion the courts three weeks before my previous attorney withdrew and had to remind her to withdraw from my case.
Kyle patronizes me saying, I have been doing post-conviction relief for eight years, nine years, something like that.' You are the first client to call me to know about your case two days after I gotten it. "This is not my first rodeo." So, my case is like a circus or a rodeo to him. When I ask questions about my charges he said, “If you have a problem with the classifications an offense, take it up with legislator. Don't take it up with me.” I get ridiculed for calling him first.
He had my case for a month and he did nothing. I motion the court again and was denied and stuck with him. My previous team had an investigator who were going to look into other angles for my case. He refused to get one. I had a free consultation from another attorney which I could not afford who told me all my lawyers were giving me in effective council and all Kyle did was read the report and replied he saw nothing wrong. However, he said, if I did not sign a plea, you would have won at trial. Kyle put in no effort in my case and was vindictive not to withdraw and the courts made me stay with him I was not able to represent myself.
I am glad I am the second person in a month who has submitted a negative review on Kyle Green and others will come forward.
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30 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I’m not a lawyer. I don’t know what information is relevant, what needs to be substantiated with evidence, or how I’m allowed to communicate in a courtroom under these pretenses. That’s why I hired an attorney.
I was assaulted by a man who lied to me about his identity. His true identity revealed that he is the author of a book that advocates for the assault of women. Obviously had I known that, I never would have gone out with him. There was an extreme amount of manipulation that followed the assault. The incident culminated with an altercation at my gym that prompted me to file a restraining order, which I was granted. I hired Kyle when the order was challenged.
I filed a case against this man with the local police. What I had to say was compelling enough that an undercover detective showed up to the hearing.
I got a delayed start to working with Kyle because his team couldn't even be bothered to ensure they put the correct name on the contract.
Virtually no information was requested of me prior to the hearing. When asked about text communication I did tell him there wasn't much- my communication with my abuser was months ago and I didn't remember the full extent of our conversation. A prepared attorney would have asked to see the texts anyway- the burden of proof is on the filer and he had literally nothing else to do to prepare.
When we got to the courtroom I noticed my witness wasn’t there, so I called him. He explained that Kyle told him he was going to confirm with him and that that didn't happen. Regardless of who’s error it was, I asked if he needed to come and Kyle said no. The hearing started very late and he lives right next to the courthouse and could have made it if I had insisted. I would have insisted had I known that I wouldn't be able to reference anything that happened at the gym that day without his testimony. I don’t understand why Kyle wouldn’t have communicated this to me knowing the impact it would have on my ability to address any part of that very scary event.
The fact that my abuser lied to me about his identity is far from irrelevant. Mesa PD are the ones who informed me of this- I had no idea that I would need to provide a witness from Mesa PD about how I arrived at this information. The judge did not allow me to say a single word about this. This is procedural information Kyle would have known as an attorney.
I failed to meet my burden of proof- or rather KYLE did. He failed to do his due diligence and look at the texts. He failed to connect with the witness, and failed to advise me appropriately when asked about whether the witness needed to come. He failed to provide evidence regarding the information I was given by the police on the true identity of my abuser, or to advise me appropriately
The worst thing happened- the protective order was dropped. Had I been doing this on my own without Kyle’s council I would have taken the due diligence to research what was required of me and I would have shown up more prepared than I did with him by my side. I seriously doubt a detective would have been in that room on my behalf had my account really been that unreliable or outlandish. The outcome of that hearing obliterated any chance I'll ever have of justice for the sodomy I endured.
It got much worse though, my abuser requested attorney fees and they were granted. Kyle decided it wasn’t important to communicate with me as his client before he challenged the order. I’m angry that he sent off the objection without so much as asking me about it or having me review the letter. Had he taken a single moment to talk to me, he would have known that I spent most of last year on unemployment, as I was forced to restructure my business.He completely failed to represent my interests, as he took zero time to understand
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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.
