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11 Jan, 2024 by Andrea allen
A complete and utter joke.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Rude and uncaring woman. Please don't waste your time with her. Lies and lies. Everyone else is more important than you.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Jonathan
There's a lot more I could say about Attorney Oraif, but there's not enough room here. She is my SHERO! She took my divorce case at the last minute and finished it. The first set of lawyers failed me, and I lost faith in the justice system. Attorney Oraif came highly recommended, and she worked with me, opposing counsel, the judge, and the mediator, and although the outcome is "bittersweet," I am very pleased. I hope I never need her services again, but if I do, I know I'll get the final "resolve" for which I seek. Diane, you are a true "class act"!! Thank you so very much...... Jonathan R.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Rickey odom
Great representation! Very kind and knowledgeable. Her staff treated us like family, and answered every question in my bankruptcy case. I would recommend this great law frim to any and all!
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25 Jan, 2024 by Kristi webster
Patricia Lackey really did my family member wrong in his custody case. He should be given a full refund for the legal representation he received. She barely spoke to him, would never call him back or see him in person, and completely lost his case in court. All of this is after he paid her thousands of dollars. I do not recommend her and strongly suggest going elsewhere.
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08 Mar, 2023 by Brandi williams
Patricia is amazing!! She’s always treated me and my family like we are her own. I can’t say enough good things about her as a person and as an attorney!!
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16 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
If I could rate 0, I would..Very unprofessional and disrespectful. He represented my husband against me. He purposely embarrassed me asking why do I have papers if I couldn't read them. My inability to read had nothing to do with the question at hand. He just knew I have a disability and tried using it in court which the judge frowned upon. Embarrassing someone is not professional. He is arrogant and makes it clear he thinks he is better than others. Respect is key, everybody has flaws. I do not recommend him as a lawyer. Our case is ongoing since 2018 and we haven't gotten nowhere in Blount cnty. I wouldn't recommend him.
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05 Jun, 2023 by Anna
Fraudulent, dishonest concerning children matters. Do not recommend.
,,..............................................,
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26 Oct, 2020 by Holly
Terrific attorney - knew everything that we needed to do! His staff was great and our calls were always returned. It was a tough battle, but we were thrilled with the outcome. Would recommend Brandon Neal to anyone!
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19 Jun, 2024 by Clif rich
09 Apr, 2024 by Tonya
Chip represented my son well in his divorce with a favorable outcome. Chip is knowledgeable and determined. If we ever need an attorney in the future, Chip will be our first call.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Matthew
The Cleveland Law Firm has been very helpful in my case. Chip and the rest of his firm have been quick to respond, knowledgeable and fair throughout the entire process. I only have positive experiences and would recommend them to anyone.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
I called this woman 3 months in a roll about my daughter's case she have yet to respond and then had court she didn't even email, write, or phone me letting me know we're having court and what time to be on the Zoom Call! It's sad and very disrespectful...
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22 May, 2023 by Mark
AshLeigh Dunham is a very poor family law attorney. She's always
unprepared and lost in a hearing in which my ex-wife was not represented by an attorney. She tended to blame unfavorable
rulings on me even though she was the attorney. She constantly asked for more and more money despite losing just about every
hearing. She was outclassed by opposing counsel when my ex-wife retained him. She doesn't know how to litigate and should not be the attorney you use in a high conflict divorce.
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21 Mar, 2020 by Maggie
We hired AshLeigh and her team to assist in our efforts to create a living will as well as to obtain the pre and post birth orders for our son who was recently delivered via surrogacy. AshLeigh is passionate about family law and worked diligently to get these tasks complete without missing any details. Our son was born during the national pandemic announcement on a Friday. Despite the courts having shut down early, she and her team worked tirelessly to ensure a timely execution of our post birth order. This meant we were able to have the correct documentation for the arrangement of his birth certificate so we could be discharged over the weekend. It’s hard to find such level of dedication!!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Dennis williams
31 Mar, 2021 by Db
Excellent attorney. He was easy to talk to and would respond quickly to any questions that we had regarding our situation. He explained everything upfront and made sure we understood the process. I highly recommend hiring him as your attorney.
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30 Jan, 2018 by Jamey hill
Mrs. Freeman was a great help and really went above and beyond. I will always be grateful for what she did for me.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Dennis williams
30 Jan, 2018 by Jamey hill
Mrs. Freeman was a great help and really went above and beyond. I will always be grateful for what she did for me.
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30 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
This attorney managed to go above and beyond all expectations that I ever could have had about attorneys. She wasn't your typical attorney, by this I mean that she was very easy to talk to. She kept me informed and always made me feel confident in my endeavors. She is very knowledgeable when it comes to the law and if I had to, I would hire her again! EXCELLENT ATTORNEY!!!!
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10 Nov, 2022 by Rob
Mr. Jones is the best attorney I’ve ever been involved with. His attention to detail makes him the best! Highly recommend him for any issues! He definitely went above and beyond what any other lawyer I’ve ever dealt with has done! He is upfront and honest! Believe it or not he is a lawyer that answers your calls anytime of day! He will tell you exactly what you need to do and what he believes the outcome will be! Thanks Al!
Rob C
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23 Jan, 2020 by Blunt whittsette
09 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I was in a car accident in 2017 and that's when I contacted Attorney Al Jones. Atty Jones made promises that not only he didn't keep but he kept giving me the run around. He is a compulsive liar, there were times when he would tell me to meet him at the office and I would get there early and he wouldn't show. I would NOT recommend this Attorney to anyone. You would be better off representimgu
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08 Apr, 2024 by Dennis webb
He is on his Game
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14 Dec, 2023 by Garrett scott
Most of Lee's bad reviews are from the other side of the court room. Lee is very knowledgeable, and easy to communicate with
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15 Jun, 2023 by Will wise
Do not recommend for traffic court council. Very disappointed in preparation for court.
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13 Oct, 2020 by It's us!
Mr. Cowling has worked beyond the scope of what’s needed to satisfy this client. I will recommend him to all of ours friends and family.
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20 Aug, 2019 by Emily kinman
11 Dec, 2016 by Montrez washington
11 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Bad experienced with this lawyer.
Not recommend it to friends and neighbors.
No tricks for the business please...
Thank U
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16 Oct, 2023 by Leslie edwards
Ms. Banks was my attorney starting in January 2011 and represented me for several years from that point, through more than one custody battle. My case was extremely complicated and convoluted. Page definitely did her homework and took all the extra steps to fight my case. She even came in and watched some public cases that could have affected my case, in order to be fully prepared to fight for me. It was a long, hard battle, but we came out on top in the end, and Page played a vital role in that. I 10/10 recommend her as an attorney.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Did not tell me i was divorced until after i had used medical insurance, resulting in a large bill not being covered. Sent property division paperwork to the wrong branch of the military.
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20 May, 2022 by Anonymous
She never let him know what was going on. He even showed up at court because he was not notified it was canceled. He missed a day of work and she apologized but she was expensive and he would've been better of with a cheap lawyer that took time to explain and cared about their client. I don't recommend her.
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10 Apr, 2019 by Paul
Going through a very tumultuous and contested divorce, I had to fire two previous counsels because they were not listening and acting upon my demands. With less than 2 months before mediation and trial, Ms. Alexander worked tirelessly to ensure she was very familiar with my case and had to play "catch-up" because my previous counsel did not submit crucial documents in a timely manner nor provided the due-diligence and technical expertise that I was paying for. Without a doubt, anyone going through a contested divorce needs Ms. Amy Alexander's methodical and technical approach to resolve their divorce. When I met Ms. Alexander, I referenced my scenario as "we're in the 4th quarter with 2 minutes left and I need a miracle". She delivered!!! This isn't a bunch of hyperbole, she literally save me thousands of dollars in alimony and child support. Finally, she is one hell-of a meditator who knows the law.
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23 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Attorney Amy N. Alexander helped us with our private adoption of our daughter. She was thorough, and kind and has the best intentions of everyone she works with. She works well in the legal system and well with Child Services in Huntsville, Alabama and knows her stuff.
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17 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
I couldn't be more satisfied with the way Mr. Alexander handled my grandsons case...Not only is he personable and friendly, he is professional and knowledgeable as well. He charged less than most attorneys I called and he handled this case without us having to step foot in a courtroom....Excellent!! Highly Recommend Him!!!
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08 Nov, 2021 by Tabatha moore
I am so happy with the way he handled my case. He really cares for the well being of his clients. He was appointed to me. If I had to I definitely would pay for him to represent me in any way. Thank u David.
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03 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Promise me results, even after paying him E4 amount he still did not produce those results. Talk down to me very condescending unhelpful judge mental unprofessional stated unless he would win, he wouldn’t take the case . True pos
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25 Jul, 2019 by Marina
I had need of legal assistance for a family member. I was in town from out of state for only a few days. Ms. Baker was able to work me in the next day and prepared the documents that day. She had a member of her team come to me to notarize the documents the next morning. I have retained a lot of attorneys over the years and none have give me this level of service. Thank you, Ms. Baker.
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06 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Sara was there to answer our questions and walk us step by step through a tough custody and adoption situation. She has a wonderfully knowledgeable, helpful staff who are always happy to answer questions. Sara was always with us in court, gave excellent advice on what to be concerned about and what not to. When I need an attorney, I will call Sara again.
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03 May, 2017 by Cindy
Paid 2500 retainer fee and she done nothing but changed the court day. Never talked to her once in almost 6 months. Ended up charging 900.00 and dropping my case. I would not recommend her. I hope no one else has to go thru what I did. I havme a great lawyer now .
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23 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Riley Powell and staff are amazing. He is a more than just an intelligent, skilled, driven, and experienced lawyer although those are noteworthy attributes; he is someone who cares and is passionate about fighting for you. He knows what to say and what to do, and I am grateful God saw fit to put him in my path. I highly recommend Riley Powell.
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28 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Riley Powell was hired the minute I met with him. It was clear that he was knowledgeable and had the expertise I was looking for. His family has been in law for many generations; he grew up learning the field. Not only is he highly skilled, he also has a heart to match. He truly cares for his clients and radiates a passion for what he does!
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12 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I trusted this firm boy did I get tricked. They filed court papers to the judge without my knowledge. He brags about communication with all his client's but that is NOT what I got at all. He actually made my case way worse. I couldn't even get him to return my calls or emails. But you better believe he got in touch with me when my funds got low. I eventually dismissed his firm and had to hire a competent attorney. Don't waste your money. Go watch him first in open court. I actually saw him arguing with a judge when he couldn't get his way on a custody case. Court room behavior when it comes to how to behave towards a judge says alot about a good attorney! RUN from this smooth talker don't walk!
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10 Oct, 2019 by Tamara merriweather
27 Oct, 2018 by Leonard amos
The Office of Orr and Almond was great very fast friendly service helpful service. I would definitely refer them to other friends and family members.
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22 Mar, 2018 by Michelle edmunds
I called to verify a Bankruptcy account and the receptionist said she is coming to sign papers tomorrow. So i replied so i can call back tomorrow and verify and collect her information and she got totally rude with me for no reason and replied i'm sure you will because you call for the same person 3 to 4 times a day. She wouldn't give me time to say anything and she hung up on me. This is my first time ever calling this office because i just got the number today to verify. I then called back and asked to speak to the attorney or who ever was over her and she wouldn't connect me to anyone over her and told me there are plenty of lawyers in mobile so i might need to find another one because i would be dealing with her 99% of the time not him. once again she hung up the phone....... so UNPROFESSIONAL!!!
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10 Mar, 2023 by Janet smith
He is very rude and abrasive. He demeans women. He is quick to insult. Seems to prey on young trashy women
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11 Jul, 2022 by Lawrence bailey jr
29 May, 2020 by Elisha wages
14 Oct, 2022 by Josh bodhi'sattva
He's awesome. I'd go to Clay before going to Alex Shunnarah lol.
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21 Aug, 2022 by Lacresha
He is an amazing lawyer. You will get your money's worth. Those other post are garbage! Listen to what he says and you will be fine! Will most definitely use him again IF anything else happens.
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03 Jun, 2020 by Melissa hutcheson
Overcharges! Do not believe his sales pitch! You WILL end up paying more than you think and heaven help you if you don't pay on time. He will drop your case right in the middle. Quick and in a hurry. Worst lawyer ever! Wastes clients time and does the bare minimum to get by. Does what HE thinks is best. Not what the CLIENT wants. Save yourself heartache and time. Get a good lawyer the FIRST TIME. It's NOT CLAY.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Darrell hyatt
Professional, excellent, the very best attorney. I have read some of the bad reviews on him. And read some of the good. No nonsense!!! Stood out. AND MY CHARGE WAS DISMISSED AS WELL. PROFESSIONALISM AND EXCELLENCE ARE THE BEST WORDS I CAN USE TO DEFINE HIM.
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13 Jan, 2024 by Roll tide
Mr. Keith is a Very good lawyer. Always available and easy to get in touch with to answer any questions that I had. Mr. Keith doesn’t have time for nonsense. He is to the point and he gets the job done! I just can’t Thank him enough. My Case was Dismissed!!
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01 Dec, 2023 by Priscilla viveros
15 Jan, 2019 by Leslie
Anne not only assisted me in all of the needed decisions in my divorce but also stood up for my children and their needs. She was kind and caring throughout the entire process, always taking time to listen to my concerns and answer all of my thousands of questions. I would highly recommend her to anyone that is in need of a compassionate yet fierce attorney.
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13 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Mrs. Guthrie left my case in far poor of a condition than it started in. She is extremely hard to get in touch with whether it be phone or email. She misses important details that build a case, she does not answer questions, not aggressive at all. I would not recommend to anyone.
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20 Sep, 2017 by Chris
Anne saved my family. She was able to get me custody of my children. Always caring, professional and on top of every detail without fault. No matter the time of day, She was always there for me...to answer any question or preform any duty. She is the best Tuscsloosa has to offer.
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24 Jun, 2021 by Brenda
This amazing ,sweet Lady, WOW, she Represented My Daughter in Court on Contempt of Court for her Son. I wish I had hired her 1st. She is A “ Beast”! Me n my Sisters truly would Recommend this Atty too Anyone!
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28 Jul, 2019 by Amber
When I was younger I got into some trouble and she became my court appointed attorney. This woman went above and beyond for me numerous times and took me under her wing and helped me. Even got my hair cut for me once as well as helped to connect me to my mother and her side of the family whom I hadn’t seen nor spoken to in many years. I owe her so much and am so thankful I crossed paths with her. I highly recommend her. She is amazing.
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18 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Laura Alexander has been an incredible attorney! She listens well and does her job! Ghee and Draper law firm is the best in Anniston!!! The staff is amazing as well! Laura Alexander always returns my phone calls and is so knowledgeable!!! I recommend her and her firm!
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22 Jul, 2022 by Megan
I have never had a lawyer create a circle a defend me from my dad like he and his wife did when fighting against my dad wanting custody of me and he was a bad person with him I may be dead right now
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12 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired him for my divorce, and he is an overall an OK attorney. His price is steep for what little work he does.
My daughter-in-law is the one who had gotten everything, including important infomation and evidence, together and organized it for hI'm to help him out. I ended up having to pay for a lot of the information; like bank statements, ect; which is fine. But than 2 weeks before the court date, he says he misplaced 75% of everything. REALLY?! Luckily my daughter-in-law had almost all of it backed up.
Otherwise in court he is fierce.
If you need someone tough in court but don't mind doing all the work than yeah he's your guy.
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15 Oct, 2023 by Joseph clark
Called in for a consultation and never heard back even when I called in a second time to follow up. If they don’t have the decency to follow up with potential clients, then chances are they won’t do a good job with other issues.
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30 May, 2023 by Brian burghout
Just another trash lawyer grabbing cash till they head out to the Florida keys. Lies and deception.
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16 Mar, 2023 by Nabi khan
05 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Id rather just leave the Star rating for now. Each one has a different experience and it's up to the family or person.
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29 Jun, 2019 by Ashley r. scott
06 Apr, 2021 by Rashad knox
I was accused of Trafficking heroine .she was there the whole time and was more of a mother figure then an attorney she got all of my cases dismissed and gave me my old life back.
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18 Mar, 2019 by Crystal
Ms. Umstead was assigned as my court appointed attorney several years ago on a upocs case. She and her staff answered all my and my parents questions in a timely and thorough manner. This was a very frightening and confusing time for myself and my family and Cynthia and her staff did everything possible to put our minds at ease. Through her good advice i managed to go through a deferred prosecution program and kept the felony from affecting my permanent record.
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13 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Hired this lawyer to represent me and once she received my money there was little communication and it just got to the point where she would not respond to any of my calls or messages at all.
My case never got representation through her and I could never get in touch with her nor get her to respond back to me.
And she did not refund any of my money back. In my opinion just plain bad business practice.
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16 Apr, 2021 by Joshua newton
Used him for multiple cases and he never dissapointed. May not have responded to every phone call but that was because more than likely it wasn't needed and may have ben harsh towards me at times but that was usally was needed. Always exceptional in court he was truly amazing.
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20 Mar, 2020 by Linn
I hired this attorney and provided him all documentation to settle my case fairly. He chose to submit documents to the court without my knowledge, leave me without counsel during mediation and blatantly lie to the Office of General Council. I have all the documentation to prove my claim.
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19 Dec, 2018 by Dawn
Our lawyer presented a firm case for us. He has answered every question and email we've had. His representation is phenomenal! I would recommend him and will use him above any other attorney.
Very satisfied with his services!
Thank you Stephen Johnson!
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26 Mar, 2024 by Lala
Multiple calls to reception requesting to schedule an appointment resulted in being routed to a paralegal. Paralegal did not return multiple calls over a week and a half period. Apparently they have plenty of clients.
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02 Mar, 2024 by Andrea loyd
She is SO rude and does not care. 😒
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20 Jun, 2023 by Brandon delorme (smokingports)
18 Jun, 2024 by Todd dutton
She's evil
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28 Apr, 2024 by Abigail morris
27 Mar, 2024 by Penny cowart
25 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
She was rude, unprofessional, and practiced poor ethics. She has a bad attitude, and seems very entitled does not follow directions also does not have a good demeanor with most family court judges in Madison County. She works for one of the big name on the door guys but that still doesn’t guarantee the quality of her work.
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12 Aug, 2021 by Teresa
I naively went to Amanda Canupp for my divorce (2017). I told her about the abuse I suffered. Physical, emotional, and mental abuse. I've come to learn, after firing her for later services (2021) that all she did was put my case in a que/ on a conveyer belt without dedicating any personal focus or attention to my case or custody scheduling. I've come to learn that my ex should not have 50/50 custody with me, and because the case settled, there is nothing I can currently do. It should have been done right the first time.
Four years later, I need the help of my attorney to file a contempt charge. Not only does she ignore my requests, but my ex-husband filed one, because Amanda blatantly ignored my request, I was not able to file my counter in time. She WASTED hours and weeks and money. I would call and/or email and receive no response for over one week, multiple times, during a time I was in great need and paying for her services. This happened on many occasions. Her excuse when I got her on the phone was that I was not at the head of her cue, and she assured me that when my case came up, I would be the priority. This is non-sense, and her lack of dedication and delays caused me to incur more expenses and I was not able to take the actions I was paying for her to assist me with. I fired her, humorously enough, she emailed me back within 30 minutes, and 'told' me we would "discuss it tomorrow", as if I were a child. I did call the next day, and gave my complaints. We talked for about 45 minutes, not at my request. Guess what.... she charged me for that phone call to. She works under a respected name in Huntsville, AL, which is why I hired her, but she is not a advocate for her client. The money I invested in her services for my contempt $6,500 (in 2021), was money wasted, but was still obligated to payed. I went on to another attorney, and my case was resolved with LESS cost and a positive affect. If I had stayed with Canupp, I would have been out $12,000 and a negative final impact to my case. I am certain. Lanier Ford should reimburse the $6,500 I paid this firm for my contempt case, but if I called, i'm sure they'd charge me for that too. I am a single mother, educated, was going through difficulties in my life and received no respect from this attorney.
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01 Nov, 2019 by Steve
Amanda picked up my case when my prior lawyer abruptly closed. She reviewed and revised my filing including pleadings and QDRO. She made improvements and resolved all of my concerns in same business week. Her charges were minimal and her services were outstanding. Had I started with Amanda, I likely could have closed my case in half the time at half the cost.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired for a very specific reason. Took my payment, did absolutely nothing with my case, withdrew as she felt she couldn’t achieve what I’d hired her for claiming she was hired for another reason, refunded not even 20% of my retainer after doing nothing. The second most unethical and unprofessional attorney I’ve ever had the displeasure of meeting. Save your money and your time and find someone else.
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02 Feb, 2024 by Bart
She will take your money and not return emails or calls for six months. I don’t think other than Shannon Rash you could hire anyone worse. She is not on your side and will force you into committing to a bad deal. Buyer Beware!! Completely useless
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15 Jun, 2023 by Kristen
She was very helpful and very honest! Always kind and caring! Thank you for everything
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
