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02 Nov, 2023 by Erica
Shallon worked my case for two+ years. She is reliable, smart, quick, detail oriented and organized. I couldn't have asked for a better advocate for myself. Going through a very complicated divorce with children, assets and with an ex that lies and tried misleading the court during several trials- his attorney encouraged shady behavior and Shallon caught everything. She knows the law like the back of her hand, knows the likely outcome and what to spend our time on. My scenario surfaced with the absolute best possible outcome and I know for a fact that wouldn't have happened without Shallon. I had Interviewed other attorneys but felt misunderstood and would have put me and my family in hardship had I gone those directions. Shallon is personable and was very timely at moving things along when I expressed concern for the oppositions slow pace. Her advice on every matter was on point. You will not regret hiring her. Money well spent.
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26 May, 2023 by Ashley
Shallon is personal and efficient. She pays attention to large and small detail alike. She works very hard for her clients. Shallon worked on my custody case for over a year and I always felt like she made me a priority and that she genuinely cared about the outcome. I truly believe by choosing this attorney I ended up with the best case senecio at the end of a 12 month challenging custody case (*including having opposing party held responsible for my attorney fees).
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24 Jan, 2023 by Eric
Shallon and her paralegal Michelle were awesome in how they handled my divorce. They kept me informed every step of the way, were very responsive to my questions and concerns, and kept the process going when things got stalled. I highly recommend her.
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03 Sep, 2024 by Iris
Rebecca Winters is an exceptional attorney at Family Law. What I thought would be a complicated, lengthy and expensive divorce turned into a quick, clear and surprisingly affordable experience thanks to her. Rebecca gave me confidence from the start, handled everything with amazing efficiency, and in just three days, my divorce was finalized. I couldn't be more grateful and recommend her without reservation as the best attorney in her expertise.
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15 Feb, 2024 by Collin
This is a wonderful team that will work to support you and represent your best interests. Professional, compassionate, and engaged. Trust this team. Mr. Bridge is amazing. You will get the best results possible. Thank you so much.
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06 Feb, 2024 by Travis nofziger
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10 Jan, 2024 by Steven jamison
I have found the attorneys of Jarvis, Bridge, Halttunen & Weyer to be knowledgeable, proactive, and helpful in the matters with which I have been associated with this law firm.
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28 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I retained Mr. Ivers to represent me in my divorce. The whole process took almost a year. Mr. Ivers was mediocre at best. I dealt with his assistant Jodie most of the time (who was awesome). When we went to trial, Mr. Ivers left out many key pieces. I was very dissatisfied with his performance in court and should’ve fired him months ago.
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28 Feb, 2022 by James
this lawyer guided me with good advice with a parental interference case, and got me to be able to see my son again after not seeing son for 4 mo from ex wife issues, of which i will forever be grateful to the lawyer. he was helpful but was constantly busy, and indicated he didn't have a lot of time. i honestly feel he was trying to make time, but in the end i was called by his secretary and told that in the time frame i needed help, i would be better off finding another lawyer service, they did provide me a list and a contact number to find lawyers. this was when i was getting ready for a hearing that was coming up in 1 week. but for the time that i was getting advice from this lawyer it was better than i could have done on my own. the one piece of feedback i would like to give to him is if they new they would not be able to help me further then dont take money from me to put into trust fund. of course it is possible that they didn't realize the time involved, or that i would require more than an hour consulting a month until a few days after i made the deposit. it seems like i will get most of it back, but it might be some time. we will see, it seems more like a staffing competence rather than lawyers.... i'm used to professional lawyers from the past but from a larger organized firm. this lawyer is more affordable and i would use him again if i would have assurances for how much help they can and can not do, what they are willing to accept as a consultant, and how often i can contact them, and when i would get a response. even though i think this lawyer has good advice, and is affordable it is really just one or two people that run the show, and they need to learn to organize better, or get better help to organize and i hope they take this feedback and i wish them success. i feel this lawyer would do better working at a larger firm than deal with all the hustle and logistics of a business.
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17 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
When I was served with a divorce I thought I would handle it by myself even though my soon to be ex had a lawyer. I learned very quickly that was a bad idea. There are way too many laws, rules, procedures, etc that have to be followed. Doing it myself went downhill pretty quickly so I wanted to get a lawyer. I asked some people for help finding a lawyer, and several of them gave me Andy's name. He is great at explaining things so that you understand them even when there are a whole lot of moving parts. I was amazed at how well he understands people and can predict what will happen or people will do. After he got involved we eventually came to a settlement that basically gave me what I asked for to start with.
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19 May, 2023 by Amy
I had hired Mr. White to help me with criminal charges I was given for following my job description and following Oregon Administrative Rules as an Assistant Director of a group home. I was distraught and very anxious and confused, as I had not ever been in trouble with the law, not even a speeding ticket. Mr. White calmly and effectively explained EVERYTHING, from the charges, what they meant what max penalty could be, as well as what the entire process could look like from arraignment to going before a jury. He helped relieve so much stress and anxiety throughout the whole ordeal. Mr. White was friendly and professional from our first phone call until the end. He was able to get the charges dropped without having to even go to arraignment. Highly recommend him for your legal needs!
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15 May, 2023 by Jordan
Rex was fair in his assessment of my situation, and gave me a good price for services. He was always on time, and worked hard for me. He got me a favorable outcome, and did a good job. He was easy to communicate with, and was timely in his responses. I would recommend him.
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25 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
I recommend having nothing to do with Rex J White. I have character limit here so I cant go in to full detail but a quick summery of my experience with this man and the challenges I am going to have if I try to sue him goes like this.. I was the victim of housing discrimination, by both a property management company and a BOLI agent but I was able to prove it because I had recorded all my calls with the property management company and agent. Rex bragged to me about making this company settle out of court many times. (Mind you I am disabled and was basically bed ridden, and he knew I was up against the statute of limitations ) He came to visit me with another trainee lawyer named Dallas. I am guessing he lied to me on the phone because he referred to Dallas as his assistant. He listened to the evidence I had given him. In short the property management company claimed to have denied me housing due to my demeanor. However I was nothing but polite, kind and soft spoken in every encounter I had with them and not just them, I try to be that way with everyone I deal with, especially if I am trying to get favor from them. I mean that's just common sense, who is going to do something nice for you if you are not mindful of their feelings? Rex sees everything and tells me he will send me a contingency agreement and a draft of the settlement demand, mind you I am now wrapped up with him just based on the fact that I trusted him and his mother was the secretary for the firm he was working for close to two months. With almost two weeks left to go he sends me a rejection letter and denies all the above. So I go about it on my own and basically taught myself how to be a lawyer online and as Trump would say I won BIGGLY lol I love karma. But the problem is if I try to sue Rex he may argue that he didn't damage me and that I am clearly a better litigator then he could ever hope to be and that I was better off in my hands than his...
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18 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Arrogant A-hole. Exactly what we all fear a bad lawyer is. Not prompt or thorough, but will charge you like he is. Crams like a college frat boy. Essentially is still is one, with a law degree. Not experienced with high conflict cases. Do Not Use if: you are female, have experienced trauma or are divorcing a narcissist. Blamed me for his uncontrolled temper in front of the judge. Reported he "tricked" me into having a settlement conference and therefore he waived the cost of it, including his legal fees. Not a good feel. Especially when expressing sympathy for the OP and how they got "the shaft" in my divorce. Made recommendations that my ex and I split time with our child 50/50 (which isn't even possible when parents live in 2 different counties) after my ex absconded with my child for 4 months and it took me 5 months to get him to file parenting time enforcement on my behalf. I should have cut my losses in the first month. It would have saved me lost time with my children and about 25K.
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08 Feb, 2023 by Rick
After my wife passed away I had a custody claim put against me by a family member from my wife’s side. I met with Mr. Weyer and he walked me through everything that could happen and what the possible outcomes were. I had never been into trouble before or been a bad parent to my son, Mr Weyer was really good at assuring me that we were going to be alright. He spent countless hours on my case and would check in frequently telling me where we were at. The thing I liked about him was that he didn’t tell you what you wanted to hear, he always advised on what he believed was best. He is really good at representing his clients in the court room. I had never testified before and he did a really good job at keeping me calm before and after I testified. All of Mr Weyer’s hard work paid off because we won our case entirely and I was able to move on with my life reassured that I had 100% custody of my son. I would definitely hire Mr Weyer again. He has incredible knowledge about Family Law.
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13 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Had a nasty Break up with my ex and had lost contact with my son. My ex slapped me with a restraining order, and i jumped the gun in responding to it before consulting with Brad, Asked for an extension in court to try to secure a lawyer, extension was denied by judge, I ended up with an RO. After consulting Brad he wanted to take my case. With months of negotiations He ended up getting me a parenting plan that my ex finally agreed too. All in all Brad was a great lawyer, he is a lawyer that doesn't tell you what you want to hear, he tells you what you need to hear. Always answered all my questions and gave me great advise. He handled my case very well and professionally. I would hire him again in the future.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Charlotte fidler
Andy Ivers was a very kind and compassionate attorney.
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11 Jul, 2024 by Anne green
I recently met with Sarah Castleton at Ivers and Miller Law Office to prepare my will. Ms. Castleton was kind and professional, and took the time to answer questions and explain my options. She was available for answering questions during the process of preparing my will and kept me informed of progress being made. I highly recommend Sarah Castleton for estate planning.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Guy
By far worst people you could possibly work with. They try a scam you out of your money the second you try an get a consult. These people are rude. Withhold anything you give them. My experience: I go in for consult and ask very basic questions about how their pay works etc. as I asked questions the office lady got more and more rude as I try an make sure my money goes to the right place. Well she kept trying to convince me to give her my money as I’m making sure it’s going to be worth it. She continued getting more verbally aggressive to such a point I said never mind and asked for my paperwork back. She withheld my information and claimed she has a shredder and walked out of sight from the desk with all my info. NEVER GO HERE THEY WILL SCAM YOU OUT OF YOUR MONEY!!
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29 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Did not represented what he said on phone in person. I felt like he try to get me in the office and then changed his mind on what he said he would do. Do not recommended attorney
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20 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
First meeting seemed fine then I make appointment, a mixup on my part. Then I was told to call on to reschedule. The inbox was full for 3 days I finally had to text to let him know. Then I walk up to the door ring the bell he answers himself told me to come back in 1 hour I did, his secretary said I needed to make an appointment even though he said he would speak to me when I came back 1 hour. So I make an appointment for 6/18/24 I have business care date and time. On date I show up 5 mins early for my apt. He wasn't there I was told he was in court. I go back to to make another appointment it would be 2 weeks out. If you want to jump through hoops then by all means come here , otherwise you should not waste your time. Note I was trying to hire him .
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15 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I am very grateful for Mr. Talmadge. I needed someone to handle my bankruptcy case and Mr. Talmadge was the man for the job. He communicated my case with me in an easy to understand way and presented options for me to choose. I felt like I was in complete control of my case while still having the guidance of a great attorney at my back. I would definitely recommend Mr. Talmadge for all of your bankruptcy needs!
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25 Sep, 2024 by Marlene
As soon as we met him I knew we would look for a different attorney. I have never met anyone more unprofessional in my 80+ years. It was obvious he wanted to be anywhere but where he was. It got worse during the consultation. I think he prejudged my granddaughter rather than the child custody case we were there for. He gave us completely different information than the lawyer who represented her in the CPS case. I would not recommend him at all.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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