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26 Sep, 2024 by Marcus rockiett
My brother hired this firm to handle his divorce. From the very beginning it was a bad decision. The first hearing was handled by an attorney in their office he had never even spoken to before, the guy showed up minutes before the hearing unprepared causing the need for another hearing. He then showed up at this hearing with all of the documentation needed to fix his original blunder, which by the way my brother paid for by needing to have another hearing which they charged him for. He proceeded thru this hearing and totally forgot to speak on one of the reasons he was there and the judge made her judgement leaving an order in place that should’ve never been. So another hearing was needed which again they charged him for. Time after time throughout the divorce they have dropped the ball, too many to list in this review. Long story shorter he ended up paying them over $30k and had a balance of $4k with an agreement he was paying. They decided to drop him as a client with less than a month to go before the final trial leaving him without an attorney knowing it would cost no less than $10k to get another. I’ve never been around a bigger group of blood sucking vultures in my life.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Brad canard
I hired attorney Kathleen Hessel to help me with a contempt hearing. From the start, Ms. Hessel was not looking out for my best interests. She did not offer concrete steps I could take. I had to require her to take my offers to the other side. I was able to do that myself. It was a complete waste of money for me to hire this law firm.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Bored vet
21 Oct, 2024 by Matthew fish
Worked with them for my divorce and truly wish I'd of gave up and found a new attorney to work with. Was charged for any email sent or received even when I was being asked for paperwork I'd already turned in and for them to redo paperwork I'd already done literally nickle and dime you to death. They claim to be "father's rights" while I felt like I was pushed to accept getting wrecked in court. do yourself a favor and find someone else.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Vas dudnik
Maria Sobrido is an excellent attorney.
I had a highly contested divorce where my ex tried to throw everything she got at me to get full custody and primary placement of the child, tried to sell the house I live in. Maria Sobrido started to represent me as a divorce attorney about one month after I filed for the divorce. I don’t know how I am so lucky to have found her. Maria has extensive knowledge about family law and she is very experienced attorney with thousands of cases under her belt. Maria is very good in the courtroom too, and during pretrial conferences the opposing counsel paled in comparison to Maria. I think even the commissioner noticed that. One thing I learned the hard way is I should do everything Maria says to the tee. For example, how I should talk to my ex, how I should run things I want to do in the divorce by Maria first, instead going rogue. Maria has helped me prepare to meet with Guardian ad Litem and to meet with Custody Evaluator. And when I was ready to give up, Maria said no and I am glad I listened. Even though my ex wanted to go to trial, Maria settled the case with a stipulation, where everything was fair. I get to keep my child 50% of the time and I get to keep the house. I knew the divorce attorney fees will be high no matter what attorney I would use, but with Maria every minute she spent on my case has had tremendous value to me (and my child). During a year long divorce I did feel like my case was a priority, even though Maria being a good lawyer has other cases to work on too. She is so good, I almost want to get married and divorced again so she will be my divorce attorney 😊
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06 Aug, 2024 by Jennifer welhouse
Chelsea Williams was the absolute best! She was supportive and always made me feel like she cared about my case! Professional and in the courtroom well spoken! She knocked it out of the park! I know Cordell got me in the good place I’m at in my divorce. This would have never happened without them. Make the right choice!!! Cordell and Cordell… Attorneys that KNOW! Thanks Chelsea your my champion!!!
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13 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Parise after I was beaten by Racine PD during a traffic accident. My expectations were very high as I considered him one of the best attorneys in Wisconsin. He did minimal work in my case and charged me higher than other attorney fees. I had pictures and a statement reporting the officers, and Mr. Parise put them back in a folder and said he would look at them later and see what he could do. My case concluded with an unreasonable outcome and I was given close to the max for my case. I didn't hurt myself or anyone, was still considered a misdemeanor and there was no reason for the way I was treated by Racine PD. Completely share the same experience by other reviews that he "shattered my expectations". Never expected this you're of representation from him!
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10 May, 2024 by Jean glaves
I regret referring this man. He never calls clients back.
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05 Dec, 2023 by Josie stewart
21 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Nevermind that they were living there because their school was in another state and my spouse lived only 15 minutes away, and nevermind that my child visited me often. Karl was being extremely aggressive, making me look bad due to his behaviour, so my child spoke up saying that what Karl was saying was untrue and his anger was misplaced. He dared to say that my kid didn't love me and that they were against me and a bunch that just had my child in tears in seconds trying to say THAT wasn't true now. It hurt our relationship, since my child feared that I believed this man over them for years, and even still has seeds of doubt. He also slammed a door in the face of a family friend who almost got hit with the door. I just wanted a divorce, not all the added stress and someone making my child out to be the bad guy for simply existing. He was horrible to my kid and my ex spouse for no reason, despite us divorcing amicably. Which he knew, but he still treated them like the worst people on earth.
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12 Jul, 2018 by Elizabeth
Mr. Schefft helped me through a difficult time when I had to go through my divorce. He was upfront, direct and honest from the start. At a time when I was not thinking clearly or completely of myself he guided and advised me on a clear and steadfast path.
After 5 years I can claim he did a fantastic job of looking out for me and my family. He had me well prepared not only with the divorce at hand but all the finances afterward. My taxes and sale of the house were a piece of cake thanks to him.
I have come to appreciated that fact over the years after hearing others complain and struggle. Their divorce attorneys did not leave them as well prepared or informed. So even after their divorces they continued to struggle with divorce baggage.
Thank you Mr. Schefft!
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18 Aug, 2015 by Vicki
Attorney Schefft has represented me more than once. He is always well organized, extremely knowledgeable, quick on his feet, passionate and well prepared for every Court appearance. I wouldn't hire anyone else!
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29 Sep, 2019 by Enrique gutierrez
Very nice and she explained everything at once and all the possibilities and consequences
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08 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
We hired this lawyer for a family member to obtain a visa. She is unprofessional always cancels her appointments for no apparent reason. She even cancelled an appointment with immigration in Milwaukee today. This is the fourth appointment she cancels. Look for another lawyer she gets nothing done. We will be suing.
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23 Feb, 2018 by Joe
Attorney Aileen Henry is dedicated and answers all your questions. She genuinely cared about my son and fought for us to get the best possible outcome that we wanted. We would highly recommend her and not hesitate to hire her again!
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16 Jul, 2008 by Anonymous
Had a Domestic issue and he was my court appointed attorney. He is down to earth kind of guy and he knew what he was talking about. I like the guy, I am no angel by any means and have a little experience with the courts, This guy was straight with me and things worked out the way he said it would. It doesn't hurt to make sure you don't get in over your head with whatever it is that brings you to court, and Brian helped with the things I couldn't control. It always helps to have a good lawyer in the court system. It can't hurt you...
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13 Dec, 2024 by Jocelyn horst
My recent experience with Jessica Birmingham at Hartley Rauch Law Office was top notch. I needed a lot of hand holding \ explanations of what to expect during the 10 month process as a first (and last) timer as a defendant. Jessica was quick to respond to emails and texts, and arrived early to court to review what would happen at the particular moment in the case. Which I definitely needed as I thought I would pass out most times from anxiety. After court she detailed the next steps and the expectations from me. Eventually, through lots of behind the scenes negotiations with the district attorney we came to a favorable agreement. I recommend her if you or a loved one needs a criminal defense attorney in Waukesha Co (and I believe Milw Co too).
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25 Nov, 2024 by Mary sayeg
Mr. Hartley does a thorough job for his clients.
Very excellent work.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Luke j
Mr. Hattley defense strategy was to have be evaluated for competency from the get go. I leave the hospital on Sep 11 for chest pain, which the hospital wouldnt treat me for because I’ve been put on disruptive list or Do not treat list. On Sep 20, 2022 I submit complaints to the DOJ and Washington OIG regarding my healthcare. Then I am violently arrested and tasered in the chest on OCT 10. I communicated to him several times to request the hospital videos of me being struck in the forehead by police officer while handcuffed with two officer behind me while I’m cooperating .He didn’t follow through and those videos were lost. I requested in person and through email for him to secure the body cam footage of my arrest that happen in West Allis. It took him nearly six months to attain those. He watched the videos with me of the west Allis police using extreme unnecessarily force including one officer choking me with two hands in the hospital bed. My thumb was broken and I had bloody wrists, and a burn mark on my ankle from wear a taser was held. And promised me that this will all go away. The West Allis Police wrote multiple false charges and those body cam videos show clear and concise evidence of their crimes. He then gave me the body cam footage on a flash drive which I watched with my wife. My wife an MPS teacher was hit by a car on 3 different occasions and our apartment was broken into during the trial. Mr. Hartley didn’t fight for me or justice in the courtroom he only saw me as number and disabled veteran and that was his defense strategy. He promised me that this would all go away however he ran away and wouldn’t even help me file an excessive force complaint but he did get the case dismissed due to incompetence and further silenced me to not allow me to testify. The United States Army has now violated all of my civil and Human rights.
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18 Feb, 2025 by John moffatt
Kris Thelan is an outstanding attorney. She helped straighten out my divorce paperwork after I fired my original attorney. The divorce decree had so many holes in it you could drive a truck through it. Kris helped manage the problems and straighten out what had become a nightmare. I wish I had hired her from the beginning. Even now, three years later, she still provides excellent advice and guidance I can trust completely.
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26 Jan, 2025 by Crystal evans
She helped us get our Case moved from Wisconsin to Oklahoma. Which was the home state. The mother moved to Wisconsin to hide from us. This lady went above and beyond for us. We still lost our case in Oklahoma because they don't care about the father's. Martha did care!!!! We would recommend her to anyone!!! Thank you for your help!
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02 Jan, 2025 by Kevin sterwald
Their communication and responsiveness to all questions was amazing. They always kept me updated with everything and really made the process easy.
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05 Jun, 2024 by Ariel fritche
Very rude, claims he can’t read
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05 May, 2024 by R rodriguez (r0519)
We hired him based on a recommendation, but he never physically attended court. Instead, he would only appear via Zoom, often with short notice. He would inform the client on the morning of the hearing, without providing any explanation for not being present in court. This lack of support made the client look unfavorable in front of the court. Despite the high cost of his services, the client had trust in him. However, this experience has left our family feeling like our loved one is alone without any support. While we appreciate the friendly receptionist, we can only give a rating of 2 stars based on the overall experience.
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23 Apr, 2024 by Michele van rossum
11 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
This lawyer did not pay attention to my concerns. He was more worried about the judges anger and being mad at him. Donavan did not take the time to pay attention . He asked for more support which I never requested. I did the leg work for my case. This lawyer charged $1,000 retainer and spent about two hours on nothing. He said he was holding the rest of the $1,000 in case we had to file a defamation case. Didn't want to " poke the bear". I never did see the remainder of my money and my ex is now dead.
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09 Jan, 2020 by Margie
I recently consulted with Dominic Anderson and he went through a step-by-step process of proceeding forward with a case that was addressed within our Court system. He garners a wealth of legal strategies and did not hesitate on making sure I understood the opportunities that can be addressed to proceed with follow through on a case for funds owed to me. I recommend this business for the legal assistance you are searching for.
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03 Jan, 2020 by Britney
Domanic is an amazing lawyer and helped me win my custody case. Thank you!
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04 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Gricel was my lawyer for my divorce. I am so grateful to have had her help me, I had met with other lawyers but they didn't understand how to handle international divorce. Gricel had tons of experience with international clients and was very honest and effective in court. She explained everything to me, helped me to prioritize what I wanted in the divorce and understand what I could reasonably expect from the judge. We were able to come to an agreement on our home and other important items and Gricel fought to help me have full time with my children.
She understood what I was going through, was sympathetic and very professional. Gricel went through all the questions she anticipated which made the actual court less intimidating. She was efficient and didn't waste a lot of lawyer time making a huge bill like my friends have had happen to them. I hope you do not have a divorce, but if you have one you should hire Gricel. I highly recommend her for any divorce or child support case especially if there are international issues.
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05 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
This attorney did my divorce, and I had worst experience in my life. If you thinking to hair her as your lawyer, please wast your money for something else. Do not even approach her office, if you do, you will regret about that rest of your life.
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17 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Santiago-Rivera was prompt and helpful she listened to find out my goals for the case and helped me achieve them.
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10 Dec, 2024 by Michelle castile
Contacted multiple times for different reasons, all legit, complex reasons that requires legal help to navigate effectively. Was turned away every single time and claimed this was due to "a lack of resources." If these lawyers are swamped with cases and cannot feasibly take on anymore, perhaps there should be something done about that. Due to this, individuals and families like mine go without this much needed legal advocacy. Agencies like this are put in place to protect us and are failing to do this. Falling through the cracks is an understatement. It is a terrible fact and one that should not continue to happen upon resources like this being available in Wisconsin.
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21 May, 2024 by Patrick w
Called for help with an unemployment appeal, went through the intake checklist with the receptionist, then didn't hear from them for a month. They finally called me back a week after my hearing had already happened.
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29 Aug, 2023 by Vivian allen
to who this concern need remove legal action of business map they are turning citizens away without option to move forward with option legal help they are useless now .
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10 May, 2017 by Kent
I had very good luck with Rita. She handled my case very well and outclassed the opposing lawyer. I felt very comfortable with her and felt she came to court very prepared. I would gladly use her again if a situation was ever needed again.
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06 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
not trust worthy. Takes weeks to return calls, does not follow up with questions/concerns. Have had to take multiple unpaid days off from work for court hearings after showing up at court I'm told that the dates have been changed however I have not received any notification from Mrs Raihle. I feel my time is not important to her, I would never recommend her to others!!
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30 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Rita appeared to care at our first visit. After I hired her, it would often take several days to a week before she would get back to me, and when she finally did, she did not answer all my questions. Worst of all, she filed paperwork and made appointments without even informing me she was doing so. Even the other party was upset about this. Perhaps she simply wasn't interested in my case; I'd like to give her the benefit of the doubt, but this was my experience, and I'm grateful I had other alternatives--as in, an attorney who treats my case with utmost respect and careful attention.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Julie
I asked for the discovery, and he did not give me a recorded interview that was made. I had no idea there even was a recorded interview, I was never allowed to give one to the police when I told them of the abuse by my ex. I told Mr. DeBord of the violence & abuse and in the courtroom right in front of me & without my knowledge or approval, he said "There is the Insanity defense." I was attacked repeatedly, remember specifically, and am not in the least bit insane! A year later I learned of & got the audio interview and on there are blatant lies about me throwing an ashtray, and other things that I COULD HAVE PROVED HE WAS LYING. Neither of us smoked, we didn't have any ashtrays, also I had surgery for shredded ligaments on my wrist and couldn't even lift a fork! Everything could have went in my favor, and now he has moved and it is too late. A little less assuming the woman is crazy and a little more doing what you say you do about domestic violence. Now I will never be believed and forever be labeled the abuser.
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14 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
This was my attorney appointed to me by the courts. I could not get in contact with him to go over my case. We only spoke a for a few minutes before I would see the judge. Very rude each time. He seemed to be best buddy’s with the District Attorney, always laughing and talking with them. I asked the Judge if he could be removed from my case and explained why. The judge granted my request and he was removed.
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18 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
After two court appearances he moved quickly to have me enter a plea. Asked me when I would be ready to go to jail when I told him things were moving too quickly, i felt rushed to take a plea. No criminal background but facing misdemeanor charge. I never received copy of criminal complaint or review of the discovery. I assumed in his professional experience he would provide those to me. I asked to judge to withdraw him as counsel after he raised his voice at me before court. I watched another client of his complain to their family about his tactics. Its been 8 days since court and He has yet to provide my file to public defenders office or myself so I can obtain new counsel before court in 6 days. Poor defense attorney. Maybe a defense for criminal law isn't the best fit.
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21 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
I would not recommend Mr patrick wait for your attorney let me say the money you spend for attorney is what you will receive so dont expect anything on your case to be done right or done at all !!!
After my case from him practically nothing i still got Bolth charges on me and I had no criminal background on me I expected to least 1 charge dropped from destruction property and domestic and the charges were from my wife but she wanted to drop all them but I didn't expect to get Bolth charges dropped in wisconsin. Patrick wait told me he talked to D.A and told me I will be charged with only destruction property with I agreed to !!! We went to court (( they charged me with Bolth )) I almost went to jail with no criminal record!!! Later months later when I called patrick wait the attorney for questions on probation HE SHOUTED ON PHONE and started swearing at me and said why should I help you cause I made this review on him. Don't use this attorney he is pointed out any from garentee funds from the state you are better off getting your own attorney I had to pay 2 attorneys to get my job done.
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26 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Was hired back in 2009 for custody case. Didn't show up to one of the first court dates due to "flat tire", and having to change it. NO calls to the court, and I was hanging to dry. Hands at the court house when he showed up, well after the hearing was over, were clean as a whistle. It didn't help his story that friends and I had seen him at the bar many nights out in Whitewater.
Once retainer was spent we parted ways. With him as my lawyer, I got my child every other weekend. I have a clean record, the mother of my child had numerous charges from drugs to forgery.
Fast forward a few years later, I hire a new lawyer to take up my case, and after a few years of court cases, I have had full custody and full placement of my child. The mothers rights have all been revoked. I wonder how much sooner I could have gotten my child if I had never wasted my time and money with this gentleman.
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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.
