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04 Oct, 2024 by Bobby bustillos
They were polite and professional.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Esteban moreno
Hello. I had a very unpleasant experience with Will Jenkins. Just because he passed the BAR and is well-versed in legal and lawyer jargon does not give him the right to bully me or speak to me in a disrespectful fashion.
I text him with a few qus re: personal property on a transaction he was overseeing and he started throwing words out like "breach of contract allows us to void the contract", "im still allowing you to pick it up at this point", and "pick it up at this time or im selling it to someone else...
All because i had concerns and asked a few simple questions.
I then went in to make a final pymt. I told him i didnt appreciate him being disrespectful and bullying me prior in those texts and that id like to speak to the Senior Partner to express my concerns.
He says "you bullied a woman", "im a partner, the senior partner is not available, you can talk to me"
"Hes going to side with me anyways"
I told him ill never do business here nor will i refer anyone.
The cherry on top-- he proceeds to say:
" WHO CARES; WE'LL BE SUCCESSFUL ANYWAY"
lol what kind of legitimate, professional law firm does business like that? Do they really engage the community and perspective clients like that?
I was blown away. I even emailed the Senior Partner. He never responded. I guess he did side with him...
Oh well. Just wanted to share my experience. Dont come here...
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19 Jul, 2024 by Rosalba haro
Un fraude total esta abogada Marlo Aragón ,se le contrató para un caso de custodia y manutención desde el estado de AZ ,se le pagó un anticipo de 2000 dlls y nunca más se a concretado nada del caso esto desde el mes de enero 2024 ahora estamos en agosto 2024 la Sra abogada no contesta el tel ,email , textos o WhatsApp el cual eliminó……supongo que esto es fraude un robo lo cual buscaremos ayuda en las autoridades correspondientes para solucionar este caso …No la recomiendo
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09 Sep, 2024 by Lee ratzlaff
If you only care about money and asset division in your divorce, then Rosalie might be a good choice. I was extremely clear from the beginning that my child's welfare and living situation was my only concern and she spent the majority of her time on financial discovery and failed to adequately represent me at the custody hearing. She billed me during facilitation while her camera was off and she was working on someone else's case. After I emailed about the charges, Tamara reduced the bill. Tamara switched me to Rosalie without my consent and she failed to read the letter I sent describing my situation before we spoke the first time. She did not prep me for the custody hearing and did not make any strong arguments in my favor and the judge did nothing about an awful living situation. She did not represent me well during facilitation and I got virtually nothing I wanted because of her failure to fight on my behalf. I wish I never hired this firm.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Holland hardie
I wish I could give more than 5 stars. I chose Tamara because of her strong assertive personality, and because she was understanding about my financial situation and agreed to keep costs as low as possible. I had escaped a very bad marriage, and couldn’t afford a lawyer to get a divorce, which I just decided to live with since my ex moved across country and couldn’t hurt me too much from that far away. But a year later, my ex was diagnosed with a serious medical condition that required brain surgery, and his family tricked me into giving them my address and sent all the medical bills my way. It was tens of thousands of dollars, and I was still broke from leaving the marriage in the first place. I was so scared and realized I needed a divorce asap. I had to save up for a year to afford the retainer, and was initially told I would probably have to pay at least half of the medical bills. But in the end, Tamara got me out of ALL of the bills, out of my marriage, AND kept costs so low that she gave me half of my retainer back! Truly life-changing work that she did for me; I would not be in the place I am today without her help.
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24 May, 2024 by Alex cabriales
09 Sep, 2024 by Lee ratzlaff
If you only care about money and asset division in your divorce, then Rosalie might be a good choice. I was extremely clear from the beginning that my child's welfare and living situation was my only concern and she spent the majority of her time on financial discovery and failed to adequately represent me at the custody hearing. She billed me during facilitation while her camera was off and she was working on someone else's case. After I emailed about the charges, Tamara reduced the bill. Tamara switched me to Rosalie without my consent and she failed to read the letter I sent describing my situation before we spoke the first time. She did not prep me for the custody hearing and did not make any strong arguments in my favor and the judge did nothing about an awful living situation. She did not represent me well during facilitation and I got virtually nothing I wanted because of her failure to fight on my behalf. I wish I never hired this firm.
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17 Aug, 2024 by Holland hardie
I wish I could give more than 5 stars. I chose Tamara because of her strong assertive personality, and because she was understanding about my financial situation and agreed to keep costs as low as possible. I had escaped a very bad marriage, and couldn’t afford a lawyer to get a divorce, which I just decided to live with since my ex moved across country and couldn’t hurt me too much from that far away. But a year later, my ex was diagnosed with a serious medical condition that required brain surgery, and his family tricked me into giving them my address and sent all the medical bills my way. It was tens of thousands of dollars, and I was still broke from leaving the marriage in the first place. I was so scared and realized I needed a divorce asap. I had to save up for a year to afford the retainer, and was initially told I would probably have to pay at least half of the medical bills. But in the end, Tamara got me out of ALL of the bills, out of my marriage, AND kept costs so low that she gave me half of my retainer back! Truly life-changing work that she did for me; I would not be in the place I am today without her help.
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24 May, 2024 by Alex cabriales
11 Jan, 2025 by Josh hinckley
We hired her as our initial attorney, paid everything in full in regards to a child custody/relocation case. We were told our case would not go in our favor if we continued and that relocation cases are difficult, didn’t know why we were trying in the first place etc etc. We are happy to report that, after firing Melanie, we successfully won our case that was supposed to be “impossible to win”, and living together as a happy family out of state. I do not recommend this attorney for any family law cases.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Bryan baker
I have had the misfortune to need the services of a number of different legal firms in the past and I can confidently say that this was one of the best, if not the best, experience I have had. From being very responsive to any questions and concerns I had, being very clear about the options and possible outcomes, I simply couldn't ask for better. The work was absolutely great and the outcome was the best possible. I highly recommend them to everyone looking for an excellent and exceptionally knowledgeable legal representative.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Donna duran
27 Aug, 2023 by Kenny butler
22 Mar, 2023 by Damian lara
Christopher P. Muirhead is the best bond counselor I've ever worked with.
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15 Feb, 2022 by Paul martinez
Amazing attorneys and staff.
Professional etiquette with a wealth of knowledge.
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20 Feb, 2025 by Sylvia jeanette pacheco
18 Feb, 2025 by Andy luna
The employee's are very courteous, professional and always in good spirits. They make their client feel very reassured. My wife and I very much appreciate all they did, especially Marlo. Marlo is a very hard worker and gets you the most possible.
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06 Feb, 2025 by T sg
Excellent guidance and drafting of an amendment to my revocable trust and guidance on options for distribution, after I pass.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Gav
I called this firm regarding my interest in estate planning. Spent 1 minute on the phone with Karin and that's all I could tolerate. Maybe she was having a bad day? Who knows, but she was rude and condescending. I hung up on her and took my business elsewhere.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Adrienne neumann
I feel fortunate to have connected with Karin to assist with some urgent estate planning. She was knowledgeable, direct, and very responsive. I sincerely appreciate the kindness she showed both me and my family during a challenging time.
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22 Feb, 2024 by Courtney st onge
Karin Foster was highly knowledgeable about the probate process and provided invaluable guidance in making estate decisions. She was incredibly professional and I would highly recommend this lawfirm.
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19 Jan, 2024 by Brad killman
I Recently concluded a complicated legal business matter with this firm. Chris Marquez was diligent and professional at all times. I would recommend him and this firm. Thank you.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Roy farr
21 Dec, 2023 by Duhigg & berlin, p.a.
19 Jan, 2024 by Brad killman
I Recently concluded a complicated legal business matter with this firm. Chris Marquez was diligent and professional at all times. I would recommend him and this firm. Thank you.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Roy farr
21 Dec, 2023 by Duhigg & berlin, p.a.
01 Jul, 2024 by Rebecca tall brown
We're grateful to Stephanie for her support with a estate matter in New Mexico. We appreciate her communication and transparency.
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01 Jul, 2024 by M lyk
Unwilling to help. It's all about money. If big claim they will help if you get screwed and someone sues/claim against you it's for pennies they won't help nor give advice. Noone wants to do what's right. What happened to helping those that are right and stick it to the guy that is wrong. Thanks for I guess a response saying it could be a number of factors of why we won't help you.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Eileen vigil
27 Jan, 2025 by Mark olsen
Honestly, only in New Mexico do they incorrectly record your email and then blame you for it. I scheduled 3-4 consultations with them and then consistently never got a call. I was unable to make pre-payment because they had the wrong email (unbeknownst to me). In the end, they decided to decline rescheduling my appointment (likely due to the number of reschedules but, again, they should have taken the “hey I didn’t get your email” seriously and investigated). They wasted my time, and I would not recommend them.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Angela chavez
Amanda Navarro just lied for her argument. Tried illegal moves. The judge told her "you can't do that." Waste everyone time. Than she lost.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Allysea rachelle
27 Jan, 2025 by Mark olsen
Honestly, only in New Mexico do they incorrectly record your email and then blame you for it. I scheduled 3-4 consultations with them and then consistently never got a call. I was unable to make pre-payment because they had the wrong email (unbeknownst to me). In the end, they decided to decline rescheduling my appointment (likely due to the number of reschedules but, again, they should have taken the “hey I didn’t get your email” seriously and investigated). They wasted my time, and I would not recommend them.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Angela chavez
Amanda Navarro just lied for her argument. Tried illegal moves. The judge told her "you can't do that." Waste everyone time. Than she lost.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Allysea rachelle
27 Jan, 2025 by Mark olsen
Honestly, only in New Mexico do they incorrectly record your email and then blame you for it. I scheduled 3-4 consultations with them and then consistently never got a call. I was unable to make pre-payment because they had the wrong email (unbeknownst to me). In the end, they decided to decline rescheduling my appointment (likely due to the number of reschedules but, again, they should have taken the “hey I didn’t get your email” seriously and investigated). They wasted my time, and I would not recommend them.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Angela chavez
Amanda Navarro just lied for her argument. Tried illegal moves. The judge told her "you can't do that." Waste everyone time. Than she lost.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Allysea rachelle
27 Jan, 2025 by Mark olsen
Honestly, only in New Mexico do they incorrectly record your email and then blame you for it. I scheduled 3-4 consultations with them and then consistently never got a call. I was unable to make pre-payment because they had the wrong email (unbeknownst to me). In the end, they decided to decline rescheduling my appointment (likely due to the number of reschedules but, again, they should have taken the “hey I didn’t get your email” seriously and investigated). They wasted my time, and I would not recommend them.
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16 Nov, 2024 by Angela chavez
Amanda Navarro just lied for her argument. Tried illegal moves. The judge told her "you can't do that." Waste everyone time. Than she lost.
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01 Jul, 2024 by Allysea rachelle
20 Feb, 2025 by Kelli perry
19 Feb, 2025 by Margaret almanza
I needed an attorney to finalize a divorce settlement and Michael Rowland was so patient and kind, he was so helpful and knowledgeable and because of this I was able to trust him with my case. He helped me win and finally be able to move forward. His paralegal, Michael was so polite and very professional. Very satisfied 🙏❤️
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14 Feb, 2025 by Kevin browder
Matthew did a great job for me as my attorney. Thanks Matthew for all your help
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26 Jan, 2024 by Justin
26 Jan, 2024 by Amanda garza
Thank you! For everything you have done for me and my family!!
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26 Jan, 2024 by Ray derickson
Years ago I did some concrete work for the Clear family. Tom was a fraternity brother and after all the work was done they sued me for the work not being correct. I tried everything to make the quarter size ponding area fixed. It's then I found out they had done the same thing to other companies. Stay away from this family!!
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23 Jun, 2024 by Ray lopez
DON IS A REALLY GOOD ATTORNY HELPED ME WITH A CIVAL LAWSUILT AND WORKED OUT BETTER THEN WHAT I EXPECTED ALSO WORKED WITH ME ON PRICE IS REALLY FAIR
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12 May, 2024 by Gayle garcia
Don't believe I received or was put in touch with anybody to help me with my issue
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22 May, 2023 by Rami benayad-cherif
Helpful and responsive.
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06 Jan, 2025 by M and b
I had the pleasure of working with Attorney Ryan Danoff and I can confidently say he is a true credit to his profession. From the beginning, Mr. Danoff provided outstanding legal counsel and unwavering support. He was incredibly professional and always readily available to address my questions and concerns, ensuring I was well-informed and confident every step of the way. His paralegal, Jennifer, was also a valuable asset, providing prompt and helpful assistance.
I felt confident and well-represented throughout my legal journey knowing that Mr. Danoff was diligently working on my behalf. Mr. Danoff consistently demonstrated a genuine commitment to our case, making us feel like he was truly on our side and working as part of our team. His expertise, kindness, and diligent work ethic were evident throughout our interactions.
Knowing we have access to such a trustworthy and knowledgeable attorney provides tremendous peace of mind. We are grateful for Mr. Danoff's services and highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal counsel.
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25 Mar, 2024 by Ken bowers
My experience with Michael Danoff was one of the best experiences I've ever had with an attorney. Michael expertly negotiated my being able to get out of a lease against an opponent from California with large cash reserves. Michael was a family attorney for my grandfather Bob Bowers, handling issues for Bowers Electric and other enterprises, before his passing. To say that my grandfather demanded the very best from those he worked with, would be an under statement. The legal advise given to me has been of the highest quality. Now I am working with Michael's son Ryan as matters pop up, and I'm very happy with the continued excellence of the Danoff Law Firm.
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23 Oct, 2023 by Hunter greene
06 Feb, 2025 by Meg hein
01 Nov, 2024 by Blythe moore
we had a $300 "consultation" with Denise Ready. it consisted of her asking us alot of questions and no feedback on what the case would involve. she requested some info, which i sent her but i never heard anything back. i called the office several times and was told 1. she had a family emergency and 2. she wasn't in the office. the paralegal, Sandra, who i spoke with both times, said she would let Denise know that i had called. i told her that if she wasn't interested , that was fine, just let me know. but they couldn't even be bothered to do that. don't waste your time or money. it was a quick $300 for her and a big disappointment for us. this is why lawyers have a bad reputation!!!!!!!
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10 Jan, 2024 by Lizzy vedamanikam
If you are looking for the VERY best divorce attorney in town, go with Lucy Sinkular. She is a knowledgeable, thorough, skilled professional attorney. I can’t rave enough about her. She gave me the best advice all around and you can rest assured that you are in good hands all the way.
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26 Feb, 2025 by Andrew antonen
This Law Firm has been absolutely amazing!! Rita & Kim are the BEST! They really take the time to be personal and find what result or route will be best for you. I never felt on the back burner or put off. The communication is great. I was always informed and given transparency in my case. I couldn't recommend a better attorney!! 🙏🤝✔️💯🔥
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26 Feb, 2025 by Steve chavez
Rita and Kim were Great ! Very attentive Rita is a shark she will fight for you !Thank you Rita for being by my side during this difficult divorce . I recommend to anyone needing help.
Steve Chavez
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25 Jun, 2024 by Sara lynn osusky
08 Jan, 2025 by Dominique
Ashton Horton Mullins PC are the very best in class and know how to navigate each and every situation with precision. The expertise and experience they bring to the table are a game changer. They really are 5 stars and deserve your business.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Kyle aragon
08 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
My experience was better than expected during a very difficult time. She did NOT tell me what I wanted to hear but what I needed to hear. Never wasted my time or money on needless litigation and helped me find a resolution rather than create more tension between me and my ex. Would absolutely recommend her to any of my closest friends.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Renee s
Disappointed by the lack of empathy and follow through
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30 Jul, 2024 by Al king
Joe Wiseman is the most disappointing attorney I have ever encountered. He handled a domestic case for me and used various tactics to increase billable hours. I found his approach highly unethical and felt deceived.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Jolene herron
Thank you for all of your help!
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24 Sep, 2024 by Renee s
Disappointed by the lack of empathy and follow through
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30 Jul, 2024 by Al king
Joe Wiseman is the most disappointing attorney I have ever encountered. He handled a domestic case for me and used various tactics to increase billable hours. I found his approach highly unethical and felt deceived.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Jolene herron
Thank you for all of your help!
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28 Nov, 2024 by Theron burk
I had very negative experiences using this firm. I had a very straightforward case that this firm had for several years. They neglected to move my case forward and kept assigning me to new associates until finally after like 20k in legal fees they sent me a letter saying they wouldn’t represent me anymore because their associate was leaving their firm. I found a new attorney that had my case settled in a matter of a couple months for a fraction of the cost. My new attorney couldn’t believe how poorly my case was handled. If you like paying bills and seeing your case go nowhere then you’ve found a great fit. If that’s not your thing keep looking.
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07 Nov, 2024 by El dae
So very helpful, they made the entire process so easily and kept me informed the whole time. I would definitely use them again!
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21 Sep, 2024 by Michelle d
Joe and team did a wonderful job. Joe really fights for his clients. Holly the paralegal is so sweet and both are excellent at what they do. Thank you so much!
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17 Jun, 2024 by Justine perea
Terese is very rude she is the paralegal here at family law firm. Donna is my attorney and I hardly can talk to her because she's so busy Terese needs to learn how to be more professional we are going through tuff times and having to communicate with her rude self makes it worse
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20 Jan, 2024 by Taya king
I used M. Torres several years ago in a child custody case. He was the most incompetent and lazy attorney I have ever met, and since him I have worked with some excellent ones.He did nothing but spend my money on completely useless maneuvers that he never followed through in court.His one time arguments to the Judge was pathetic and usless and he came off as foolish and the Judge told him so. He lost my case due to his negligence in producing any viable material to the court dispite his constant promises and billings.His behavior bordered on inappropriately flirtatious with me, as he thinks he charming with female clients.
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01 Dec, 2023 by Katelin bigalke
17 Jun, 2024 by Justine perea
Terese is very rude she is the paralegal here at family law firm. Donna is my attorney and I hardly can talk to her because she's so busy Terese needs to learn how to be more professional we are going through tuff times and having to communicate with her rude self makes it worse
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20 Jan, 2024 by Taya king
I used M. Torres several years ago in a child custody case. He was the most incompetent and lazy attorney I have ever met, and since him I have worked with some excellent ones.He did nothing but spend my money on completely useless maneuvers that he never followed through in court.His one time arguments to the Judge was pathetic and usless and he came off as foolish and the Judge told him so. He lost my case due to his negligence in producing any viable material to the court dispite his constant promises and billings.His behavior bordered on inappropriately flirtatious with me, as he thinks he charming with female clients.
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01 Dec, 2023 by Katelin bigalke
17 Jun, 2024 by Justine perea
Terese is very rude she is the paralegal here at family law firm. Donna is my attorney and I hardly can talk to her because she's so busy Terese needs to learn how to be more professional we are going through tuff times and having to communicate with her rude self makes it worse
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20 Jan, 2024 by Taya king
I used M. Torres several years ago in a child custody case. He was the most incompetent and lazy attorney I have ever met, and since him I have worked with some excellent ones.He did nothing but spend my money on completely useless maneuvers that he never followed through in court.His one time arguments to the Judge was pathetic and usless and he came off as foolish and the Judge told him so. He lost my case due to his negligence in producing any viable material to the court dispite his constant promises and billings.His behavior bordered on inappropriately flirtatious with me, as he thinks he charming with female clients.
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01 Dec, 2023 by Katelin bigalke
17 Jun, 2024 by Justine perea
Terese is very rude she is the paralegal here at family law firm. Donna is my attorney and I hardly can talk to her because she's so busy Terese needs to learn how to be more professional we are going through tuff times and having to communicate with her rude self makes it worse
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20 Jan, 2024 by Taya king
I used M. Torres several years ago in a child custody case. He was the most incompetent and lazy attorney I have ever met, and since him I have worked with some excellent ones.He did nothing but spend my money on completely useless maneuvers that he never followed through in court.His one time arguments to the Judge was pathetic and usless and he came off as foolish and the Judge told him so. He lost my case due to his negligence in producing any viable material to the court dispite his constant promises and billings.His behavior bordered on inappropriately flirtatious with me, as he thinks he charming with female clients.
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01 Dec, 2023 by Katelin bigalke
23 Jun, 2024 by Ray lopez
DON IS A REALLY GOOD ATTORNY HELPED ME WITH A CIVAL LAWSUILT AND WORKED OUT BETTER THEN WHAT I EXPECTED ALSO WORKED WITH ME ON PRICE IS REALLY FAIR
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12 May, 2024 by Gayle garcia
Don't believe I received or was put in touch with anybody to help me with my issue
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22 May, 2023 by Rami benayad-cherif
Helpful and responsive.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Devon delmedico
Cliff is an awesome lawyer and all aside a great person. Great prices and great work!!!!
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08 Nov, 2022 by Lauri curtis
12 Apr, 2021 by Elizabeth giron
Discover the ideal lawyer
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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:
-
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.
