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143 Reviews
11 Oct, 2024 by William coleman
A ticket I received turned out to be a Class A misdemeanor. Couldn't just pay a fine, had to appear in court. After looking up Class A misdemeanor it appeared more serious than a standard ticket, so I chose to seek legal advice. I called the Baker law firm and Mr Baker himself returned my call. I was set up with a meeting the next day and related what had happened. He felt quite certain he could get the case dismissed, possibly without a court appearance, and if that wasn't possible a short appearance in court and court costs, and the problem would be solved. Within a few hours his secretary called and informed me he had negotiated the dismissal. I did have to appear in court the next day but that went smoothly in less than a half hour. I felt like he and his staff truly cared about my problem. I give the Baker Law firm my highest recommendation.
Lynn Coleman
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08 Oct, 2024 by Baden friday
08 Oct, 2024 by Allen west jr
11 Sep, 2024 by Lagena montgomery
I had the pleasure of working with Amy Bates for my family law case, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. From the very beginning, Amy showed incredible professionalism and empathy, making me feel supported throughout the entire process. Her expertise and attention to detail were evident in every aspect of my case. Amy took the time to explain my options and kept me informed at every step, which greatly eased my stress during a challenging time. Thanks to her dedication and skill, the outcome was favorable, and I feel truly grateful for her help. If you need a compassionate and knowledgeable family law attorney, Amy Bates is the best one to choose.
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13 Jun, 2024 by Vincent young
I have the upmost respect and confidence in Katie Klinghard no matter what the circumstances are she’s going to get you the results you need and that’s a WIN… not only she’s a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ attorney but she’s provides ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ professionalism….. KATIE KARES!!!!!!!!!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Noufi zeph
Amy Bates is great! She has been my attorney for a few years now and I would recommend her always to anyone for anything. She helped me and my children in so many ways, a simple thank you is not enough. I will forever be grateful. Thank you Amy for all you do in this community. Nothing short of amazing!
PS: The way she mopped the floor with my ex husband was outstanding! 😊
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21 Mar, 2024 by Larry mcleod
I will forever be grateful for Knoxville Family Law! They helped me get custody of my kids, and my ex’s lies were exposed. Thank you for all of your hard work and belief in the father.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Michael fortune
Blair Kennedy is great! You will be very happy with how she handles your case. Some attorneys are afraid to go to court but Blair thrives in an adversarial environment. She will fight for you!
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03 Oct, 2023 by Susan s.
Blair is an amazing lawyer. She is so smart and worked very hard on my case. We won thanks to her.
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23 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Megan protected me and my children throughout an incredibly difficult domestic assault situation and subsequent divorce. She knows the legal system on both the civil and criminal side, and is unafraid to take on cases involving dv. Her recommendations were spot on, and she listened to my concerns and input throughout the entire process without judgment. I highly recommend her for anyone needing a strong, intelligent, and caring attorney.
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21 Dec, 2021 by Leigh ann
I can’t say enough wonderful things about Megan! She has been my attorney for 8 years and has handled everything (from my divorce to visitation issues and child support collection) quickly and to my satisfaction. She is professional, straight-forward and knowledgeable; she definitely knows her stuff and even helped me stay level-headed (and drama-free) during a terrible time. She won’t tell you something just because it’s what you want to hear - she is straight-forward and I whole-heartedly appreciate her honesty with me from day one! She’s not someone I’d want to go up against in the courtroom!
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14 Sep, 2021 by Armando
She’s an amazing attorney I will recommend her she’s a very honest attorney I’m so glad that I hired her she helps me to get full custody of my daughter
She really knows what she is doing
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19 Oct, 2023 by Dee farris
04 Oct, 2023 by Travis hudson
Please take my advice and stay away! Yes emails are $58 a pop. Yes they charge you $290-$330 per hour. Yes you have to deposit at least $1250-$1800 in retainer fees. Yes you do have to put $5000 in your retainer at court. No I was not happy with the outcome for $20,450.... that's right $20,450! Not for men for them! I wish I could charge them $100 per letter in this review.
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07 Aug, 2023 by C w george
I guess business is good. I'm on a waiting list for nothing more than a consultation
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31 Jul, 2024 by Trever
My family member has Mr Kelley right now as his lawyer and we can't get him to answer the phone or return call as far as I see it he couldn't be more unprofessional if this behavior would change I would be more than happy to change this review I wish we could get the kind of lawyer I read about in the review please Mr Kelley contact your client
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24 Oct, 2023 by Unknown origin fx
Can't fully judge yet, but I guess so far so good.
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18 Jul, 2023 by Tyler bland
Not only is Mr. Augusta an outstanding attorney, he's a good man. He's been very helpful, calming, and patient with me throughout the entire process. If I ever had to go through this again (and I pray that I don't lol), I wouldn't second guess giving him a call.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Kathy
Jef represented my daughter and throughout the duration of the case, he was always there. There wasn’t a moment we felt that we were just a number or overlooked. The outcome was better than we ever hoped for, and that is solely due to Jeff’s hard work and great reputation. Tim, his partner was also incredible and helpful. Not a better firm in the world.
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20 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Non responsive , irresponsible time management , etc. hired this gentleman and paid $1,000 before ever meeting him. After being rescheduled 3 times due to him “ being busy /sick/ out of the office I knew then and there he wouldn’t be able to properly represent me. While waiting in the waiting room , On our well awaited first meeting , I was groped on by another client of his whom was around the age of 60-70. I didn’t press charges since the other ladies in office were so sweet about removing me from the area he was in. Properly settled and appreciated. I wish I could say the same for my experience with the attorney I hired. I was rushed in my first meeting. I believe it lasted 3 mins before being abruptly told “ to reschedule since he was busy for another court date “ after that any phone calls in regard to my case and or emails were never answered and I never saw him again. My case was dropped by him about 8 days prior to my docket call ...If you’re looking for an attorney that is on top of his game , responsive , there for you , and has great time management , then he’s not going to be the right person for you. I had a simple harassment case and now have another attorney. If I had seen these reviews prior to hiring I would’ve went with someone else. Mr. Clemmons was very responsible in picking up his pieces in dropping my case last minute and offered wonderful alternative routes as well as was responsive in a very timely manner. If you need to hire anyone from this firm I’d suggest clemmons , sensing , but not grimes. I just don’t think I got what I wished which was to be represented wonderfully.
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08 Nov, 2017 by Elizabeth
Jeff, did an amazing job, representing me. He immediately just into action once, we told him everything that happened, and help me get my baby back the same day. If it wasn’t for him, I’d have to wait, but with his quick thinking, we got him back. I️ would definitely recommend, and have him represent me again.
THANK YOU SO MUCH!
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22 Mar, 2021 by Joseph
I hired this man to try to expunge my record in tennessee. Communication was great at the start so i paid him and waited. After more than six months i emailed him for an update g so after a month or so i called and spoke to him he said he would call back that evening, he never called. After a couple of days i tried calling twice but he was screening the calls and didnt answer. I finally emailed him to get my money back and he responded right away.So after giving him 750.00 dollars i got a check for 600.00. Cheap lesson i guess My advice is to look elsewhere if you need an attorney. From my experience he will take your money and then try to ghost on you!!!
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18 Jul, 2020 by Cj
Great lawyer would use him in every case. He makes you feel it’s not about money as much as he your friend trying to help you. Any friends needing a great lawyer. I would tell them he is the one they need. That is saying a lot cause I’m hard to deal with at time. I’m in a hurry and pushy.
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03 Apr, 2020 by Heidi
Todd has always been professional and respectful. He has always been available for me when I needed him. And he has put a lot of time and effort into each and every one of my cases
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01 Jun, 2020 by Renita
I have hired this attorney twice. Both times he was efficient and won my cases. I did not hesitate to pay for his work. He seems to know the system and those that work in the system. I appreciated his honesty in evaluating the possibilities before going into the courtroom. He appeared in the courtroom on time and did not draw out his fees like other lawyers. He did not talk to me like I was uneducated. The process was as good as it could have been under the circumstances.
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30 May, 2019 by Richard
He took on my case and stood in my place to straighten out issues I had started without an attorney. I'm still working with him and he's become a friend of mine in the process.
Somethings I wish would have moved faster but in hindsight I'm lucky they didn't as a whole new world of options have since presented themselves.
The reason for the 5 stars is he opened up to me on why we haven't moved faster on a certain issue and I really doubt another lawyer would've told me what he did.
When the time comes he'll stomp all over the opposing parties. People have to remember things usually don't go as quick as you'd like.
I'm sticking with him and have more things in the fire that will come his way.
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16 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired this person to protect me in my divorce. It was my house before marriage so I owned it. Ex wife even agreed. He tells me if I will sell my house to my ex he will forego his bill. I sign a quitclaim he says she needs for financing. She goes same day and registered it. I come home my ex is moving in and police make me leave. I could not get work I did on computer for payment out of my house. It's been 2 months since divorce final. I'm still not paid, I'm now homeless living in car, I am disabled and had been unemployed for 2 years. I cannot tell you how much money he has cost me and has left me in worse condition I've ever been in. Would never return phone call or text, he emailed me twice, Now he has lien on monies due me. He's a class act. Before I fired him, I called him 5x in about an hour, no answer. My friend says use my phone. He answered, surprised that i was on the phone. This being 3 weeks with no communication from him and my being kicked out of house. My car got repo. You have been warned.
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21 May, 2023 by Matthew kruse
Patrick is a scam, not a good lawyer. I do not recommend this guy. All he wants is money. Does not return calls, I fired him and retain a new attorney.
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13 Mar, 2023 by Jennifer neel
Mr. Brooks was a huge help and made dealing with my case less scary. I would highly recommend Mr. Brooks, he is a very compassionate and skilled lawyer!
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20 Sep, 2022 by Lashuanna couch
Beth brooks not a good lawyer I personally won’t trust anyone in her law firm. If I could give them a 0 I would run as fast as you can.
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06 May, 2024 by Katrina williamson
10 Dec, 2023 by Ashtyn turnbow
Ms. Greene-Campbell is an excellent mediator. Very fair, reasonable, and kind.
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02 Apr, 2023 by A. king
21 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
I want to start by saying Mr. Milazo is a great conversationalist. He was easy to speak with and encouraging when I felt rather distraught over my situation. However, Mr. Milazo was just that, "all talk." He charged for services never rendered and continued to drive my bill up until I finally dismiss him. I eventually hired another attorney that did a fantastic job.
Sadly, Mr. Milazo is, like most, a small fish in a large pond trying to make a name for himself. If he does not show you results early on in your case, move on to someone that can genuinely help you.
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08 Dec, 2020 by Mary
John is a great attorney. He gets the job done and gets you the best possible outcome. I would highly recommend him to my friends and family.
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11 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I was in a crisis and trying to get a restraining order against my boyfriend and he agreed to meet with me at the spur of the moment the same day, which was much appreciated. But first thing i noticed walking in was that he had his assistant and then one other girl just lingering around the door listening to everything i had to say about my very private and high profile case. I didnt appreciate extra ears being in the room doing nothing but wanting to hear all the details of my horrible situation for her own curiosity. I was very distraught and didnt have the mind to tell this chick to get lost.
Secondly, as i started to talk about obtaining palimony, this lawyer starts letting out sarcastic "ha's" and then saying, "i hate to break it to you but there is no law that will give you palimony." I already know this, but palimony IS recognized in the courts of california even though it is not a law there either. I was trying to ask him if it was recognized in court system here in TN, but he kept repetitively saying the same thing as though I was "missinformed." He obviously didn't understand what I was asking and kept on with his know-it-all, "youve been missinformed" and "somebodys been pullin your leg" attitude when he is completely ignorant to the way CA courts work. I was only asking if the system is the same in TN; I wasn't trying to have a debate about "the law."
Then, he starts urging me to go to a battered womens shelter where they will "help me." I was upset, i wasnt beat up so wtf? The only help i wanted was a preventative restraining order and turned out That since I didnt have a black eye, my story of past abuse wasnt really enough to warrent a restraining order.
I was insulted when he kept pushing the womens shelter pamphlet to me saying i should probably go there. For what? Thats not what i came to his office for. I have money, why would i go to a womems shelter and sleep on a cott when I can get a hotel room?
Anyways thats my opinion. The extra ears in the room was very unprofessional, not to mention that they all three stepped out of the doorway to proceed to loudly wisper as though i cant here what they are saying. Idiots. This is a private matter Milazo, extra ears should not be in the room. If you have something to say u say it in front of me. You dont take the details of my case and proceed to gossip in the doorway. I really feel like I should not have gone there and should have made them sign a privacy contract before telling them my case. All felt very elementary and gossipy... Which my case was very juicy i admit, but i wish i didnt tell these people anything.
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08 Dec, 2020 by Ethan
At the lowest point of my life, Mr. Stansell
Helped me pick up the pieces. He was always communicative, answering calls or emails from me well outside regular hours. He offered wonderful advice and truly helped make this divorce and child custody process bearable. I cannot recommend enough.
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02 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Talked a good talk, but did very little. I never received communication, documents, returned phone calls. Was not informed of a court date, nor was the opposing counsel! Billed several thousand dollars for nothing. Left firm abruptly (I assume he was fired) which was the only positive thing that happened.
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13 Jun, 2017 by Tyler
Being faced with a divorce while on deployment, Mr. Stansell took excellent care and represented me throughout the process. He was attentive, responsive, and a calming force during a very hard time in my life. He answered all my questions and helped me to make sense of divorce proceedings when I wasn't even in the country. He helped me find contractors to do work on my home so it could be put on the market, appraisers for cars and jewelry - he really was an outstanding attorney. I highly recommend Zachariah to anyone who is looking for someone who knows their stuff, is aggressive when necessary and will represent you and your interests well, and also give honest feedback throughout the process. He is a five star attorney and worth every penny. Cannot thank him enough for what he did for me and my family.
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31 Jul, 2021 by T.
We hired Mr. Herrera after a pleasant phone call to help my elderly mother with a landlord (slumlord). After paying his fee for a letter we had to seriously edit because it did not contain troubling elements regarding her landlord's negligence, he was difficult to reach and made excuses contrary to legal remedies we know existed.
A month after the first letter, as we waited for the landlord to take action on his dilapidated house, I hired him to write a letter to a business competitor regarding his defamation and slander. I had to write the entire thing, including state and federal laws he was ignoring, as I'd already emailed him the laws and their corresponding precedents.
Months later, after landlord had failed to live up to his own written promises, much less repair the house in a livable fashion -- which includes a failing heating and ductwork system -- Mr. Herrera told my mom to wait until winter before we could address the issue.
Seriously? Seriously.
We'd informed him, with photos, of this problem the PREVIOUS WINTER.
To get that "answer," we had to call numerous times over the course of two weeks, finally stating "we'll have to hire a new attorney if we don't hear from you today."
He took our money, wrote crappy letters, refused to any follow-up, and never stated fees for more action. Maybe he didn't want to take any action. Maybe he made his easy money and that was all he wanted. We paid for letters I could've written myself just to have his Esq. attached to them.
Wasted six months and $800 which would've been better spent on a competent lawyer. Nothing has changed since we sadly chose Mr. Herrera to "represent" us.
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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.
